# Vichy Normaderm PhytoAction Daily Deep Cleansing Gel for acne-prone skin

**Lovi Fit: High fit for acne-prone skin.**
Combination Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: High · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/vichy/normaderm-phytoaction-daily-deep-cleansing-gel/for/acne-prone-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for Canada.

Brand: [Vichy](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/brands/vichy)
Category: [Cleansers](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/best/cleansers)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with acne-prone skin: breakouts, blackheads, and post-acne marks. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

A great choice for acne-prone skin; a few cleansers fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Highly suitable for your combination, acne-prone skin as salicylic acid and zinc gluconate work to exfoliate and regulate oil production, effectively managing breakouts and decongesting pores.
- Bifida ferment lysate offers additional benefits by supporting the skin barrier, which is beneficial for maintaining overall skin health.
- The formula is safe for your skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of harsh or prohibited ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/vichy/normaderm-phytoaction-daily-deep-cleansing-gel/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/vichy/normaderm-phytoaction-daily-deep-cleansing-gel/for/dry-skin): Caution
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/vichy/normaderm-phytoaction-daily-deep-cleansing-gel/for/combination-skin): Superior
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/vichy/normaderm-phytoaction-daily-deep-cleansing-gel/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/vichy/normaderm-phytoaction-daily-deep-cleansing-gel/for/acne-prone-skin): High (this page)
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/vichy/normaderm-phytoaction-daily-deep-cleansing-gel/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/vichy/normaderm-phytoaction-daily-deep-cleansing-gel/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/vichy/normaderm-phytoaction-daily-deep-cleansing-gel/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Caution
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/vichy/normaderm-phytoaction-daily-deep-cleansing-gel/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Superior

## Key ingredients

Salicylic Acid, Vichy Volcanic Water, Zinc Gluconate, Copper Gluconate, Bifida Lysate Ferment

## What the research says

- Daily use of a deep cleansing gel containing salicylic acid 2%, zinc gluconate 0.2% and lipohydroxy acid 0.05% significantly reduced total lesion count by 56.3% after 84 days in 35 subjects with mild to moderate truncal acne. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36698447/))
- A dermocosmetic cream containing Punica granatum Pericarp extract, Salicylic acid, Niacinamide, Zinc gluconate, and Aqua Posae Filiformis significantly decreased inflammatory, non-inflammatory, and total lesion counts in subjects with mild to moderate acne compared to untreated hemi-faces after 15 days. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41487026/))
- A moisturizer containing licochalcone A, 1,2-decanediol, L-carnitine, and salicylic acid significantly reduced noninflammatory, inflammatory, and total acne lesion counts compared to a vehicle control in Thai patients during a 12-week maintenance phase. ([BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/))
- Topical application of Bifida Ferment Lysate strengthens the skin barrier function by upregulating barrier and antimicrobial peptide genes, exhibiting strong antioxidant properties, and decreasing inflammatory cytokine secretion in vitro. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37218728/))
- Cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen achieved a higher cure rate (39%) than salicylic acid (24%) and a wait-and-see approach (16%) for cutaneous warts at 13 weeks in primary care patients. ([CMAJ, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20837684/))
- Treatment with 2% supramolecular salicylic acid hydrogel resulted in a regression and markedly improvement rate of 51.01% compared to 43.10% for Adapaline gel in patients with mild to moderate facial acne vulgaris, showing no significant difference in efficacy. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38590107/))
- Topical 5% benzoyl peroxide plus salicylic acid achieved the greatest lesion reduction at early 2 to 4 week time points compared to benzoyl peroxide, clindamycin, and combination benzoyl peroxide/clindamycin, while 5% benzoyl peroxide plus salicylic acid and combination benzoyl peroxide/clindamycin showed similar efficacy at 10 to 12 weeks in acne patients. ([Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20488582/))
- Balneotherapy with thermal water altered specific skin microbiota at genus and species levels in healthy female volunteers compared to tap water, which produced no significant microbiome changes. ([Life, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36983902/))
- Malaysian thermal spring water as an adjunct to standard acne therapy improved skin hydration, reduced dryness and stinging, enhanced overall tolerability, and improved the acne disability index in patients with mild to moderate acne. ([The Medical Journal of Malaysia, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38553920/))
- A 2% Sphingomonas xenophaga ferment extract cream applied twice daily for 4 weeks significantly decreased facial vascular disorder scores compared to vehicle in 86 Caucasian female subjects, alongside dose-dependent inhibition of pre-kallikrein activity in vitro. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40545753/))
- Different strains of Propionibacterium acnes modulate cutaneous innate immunity with varying pro-inflammatory potentials, with P. acnes type III showing the highest and P. avidum the weakest, and zinc gluconate down-regulates the expression of most induced immune markers. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23947673/))
- Zinc gluconate induced alpha2, alpha3, alphaV, and alpha6 integrins, copper gluconate induced alpha2, alpha6, and beta1, and manganese gluconate induced most studied integrins in cultured keratinocytes. ([The British Journal of Dermatology, 1999](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10215764/))

## What reviewers say

This gel cleanser is widely praised by users with oily and acne-prone skin for its ability to reduce breakouts and control excess sebum without stripping the moisture barrier. While most users find it gentle and effective for clearing blackheads and "maskne," a small subset of long-time users expressed disappointment over a perceived formula change.

- Liked: Gentle non-stripping (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Effective acne control (often mentioned)
- Liked: Reduces oil (often mentioned)
- Liked: Improves pores (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Caused dryness (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Formula change (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Ineffective for some (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Scent complaints (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Could be used as part of your AM and PM routine. Start using it 3 times a week and build up to daily use if your skin tolerates it.
- This cleanser is the first step in your morning routine and the second step after your pre-cleanser in the evening. Always follow up with a toner and moisturizer .
- Gently massage a small amount of the cleanser onto your face in circular motions. Avoid harsh rubbing to keep your skin calm.
- Apply the cleanser on slightly damp skin to help it work effectively against breakouts. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water .
- Avoid the immediate eye area and do a patch test before your first use to check for any sensitivity.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/6a08416bd9315041c09c72f61cf27cc1.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Vichy Normaderm PhytoAction Daily Deep Cleansing Gel a great fit for acne-prone skin?

This cleanser is a great fit for your acne-prone skin because salicylic acid and zinc gluconate clear out pores and keep oil in check, helping to keep breakouts under control. Bifida lysate ferment adds support to your skin barrier to keep it healthy, and the formula is safe and unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36698447/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41487026/)

### Which ingredients make this cleanser a good fit for acne-prone skin?

Salicylic acid and zinc gluconate make this cleanser a great fit because they help clear out clogged pores and keep oily shine under control. Salicylic acid clears away dead skin cells, while zinc gluconate and bifida lysate ferment help calm breakouts and support a healthy skin barrier with very little chance of irritation.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36698447/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41487026/)

### What does Salicylic Acid do for acne-prone skin?

Salicylic acid helps clear acne-prone skin by reducing pimples and calming redness without causing many side effects. It works by dipping deep into pores to clear out blockages and control oil, making it a reliable choice for keeping skin smooth and clear.
Sources: [BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

### What does Vichy Volcanic Water do for acne-prone skin?

Vichy Volcanic Water helps calm redness and soothe stressed, acne-prone skin while strengthening the skin barrier against everyday irritants. It also supports the skin's natural defenses and has a very safe profile, making it comfortable for sensitive or irritated skin.
Sources: [Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34979589/), [Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34979591/)

### Where does this cleanser go in a skincare routine for acne-prone skin?

This cleanser goes in the morning and evening routine steps before your toner, moisturizer, and treatments. It is a great fit for your acne-prone skin because salicylic acid and zinc gluconate help clear pores and manage breakouts.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36698447/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41487026/)

### Can I use this cleanser with retinol, and in what order?

You can use this cleanser with retinol by applying the cleanser first and following with your retinol treatment. Using gentle, barrier-supporting cleansers alongside retinol helps keep skin comfortable and is unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37276158/), [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17121065/)

### How often should I use this cleanser?

This cleanser is a great fit for your acne-prone skin because salicylic acid and zinc gluconate help clear breakouts and control oil. It is safe to use daily, as the formula is unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36698447/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41487026/)

### Can this cleanser clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for acne-prone skin?

This cleanser is a great fit for your acne-prone skin because salicylic acid and zinc gluconate help clear pores and manage breakouts. It is unlikely to cause irritation or make acne worse since it lacks harsh ingredients and safely supports your skin barrier.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36698447/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41487026/)

### Can I use this cleanser around the eyes or on my body?

You can use this cleanser on your body, particularly for managing acne, but avoid using it directly around the eyes. The active ingredients like salicylic acid and zinc gluconate help clear breakouts and control oil, making it well-suited for body skin.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36698447/)

### Is this cleanser fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for acne-prone skin

- [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$20.96 at Amazon
- [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Low pH Gel Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-low-ph-gel-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$24.83 at Amazon
- [Pyunkang Yul Deep Cleansing Foam](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/pyunkang-yul/deep-cleansing-foam/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$18.79 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Resist Advanced Replenishing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/paula-s-choice/advanced-replenishing-toner/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$41.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [CeraVe CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/pm-facial-moisturizing-lotion/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$20.96 at Amazon
- SPF: [innisfree Daily UV Defense Mineral Sunscreen](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/innisfree/daily-uv-defense-mineral-sunscreen/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$24.50 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.ca: CA$22.95 (https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0B7V2Q6LT?tag=lovi-care-web-product01-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Shoppers Drug Mart: CA$31.95 (https://www.shoppersdrugmart.ca/vichy-normaderm-anti-acne-purifying-cleansing-gel-face/p/BB_3337875923620?variantCode=3337875923620)
Prices checked 10 Oct – 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Salicylic Acid, Water, Coco-Betaine, Propanediol, Peg-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Cocoyl Glycinate, Dipropylene Glycol, Zinc Gluconate, Bifida Lysate Ferment, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Benzoate, Phenoxyethanol, Copper Gluconate, Caprylyl Glycol, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/vichy/normaderm-phytoaction-daily-deep-cleansing-gel/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/vichy/normaderm-phytoaction-daily-deep-cleansing-gel/for/acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/vichy/normaderm-phytoaction-daily-deep-cleansing-gel/for/acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/vichy/normaderm-phytoaction-daily-deep-cleansing-gel/for/acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/vichy/normaderm-phytoaction-daily-deep-cleansing-gel/for/acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/vichy/normaderm-phytoaction-daily-deep-cleansing-gel/for/acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/vichy/normaderm-phytoaction-daily-deep-cleansing-gel/for/acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/vichy/normaderm-phytoaction-daily-deep-cleansing-gel/for/acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/vichy/normaderm-phytoaction-daily-deep-cleansing-gel/for/acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/vichy/normaderm-phytoaction-daily-deep-cleansing-gel/for/acne-prone-skin
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- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/vichy/normaderm-phytoaction-daily-deep-cleansing-gel/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/vichy/normaderm-phytoaction-daily-deep-cleansing-gel/for/acne-prone-skin