# Vichy Normaderm PhytoAction Daily Deep Cleansing Gel for oily skin

**Lovi Fit: High fit for oily skin.**
Oily Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: High · Safety: Excellent.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/vichy/normaderm-phytoaction-daily-deep-cleansing-gel/for/oily-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 oily skin: shine, enlarged pores, blackheads, and blemishes. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

A great choice for oily skin; a few cleansers fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Offers high suitability for your oily skin as salicylic acid and zinc gluconate work to regulate sebum and exfoliate pores, addressing excess shine.
- The moderate concentration of salicylic acid provides excellent cleansing by exfoliating dead skin cells and decongesting pores.
- This formula is safe for your skin, with Bifida Lysate Ferment offering soothing benefits and no harsh ingredients present.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/vichy/normaderm-phytoaction-daily-deep-cleansing-gel/for/oily-skin): High (this page)
- [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
- [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/))
- Twice daily application of a multitargeted dermocosmetic cream provided comparable efficacy to benzoyl peroxide 5% gel in reducing inflammatory, non-inflammatory, and total lesions in 150 Caucasian subjects with mild-to-moderate acne over 56 days, while demonstrating superior skin tolerability. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/))
- The use of a salicylic acid-based dermocosmetic significantly reduces the needed quantity of benzoyl peroxide without impacting efficacy in mild to moderate acne, and as maintenance post-benzoyl peroxide allows a significant reduction of acne relapse compared to vehicle. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38051857/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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

- Use your cleanser AM and PM every day to keep your skin fresh. Always make sure to follow with a good SPF in the morning.
- Apply your cleanser as the first step in the morning or the second step in the evening before your toner.
- Gently massage a small amount onto your face using circular motions, then rinse well with water .
- You can apply this cleanser safely on damp skin for a refreshing and easy wash.
- Avoid getting the product directly into your eyes and stop use if irritation occurs.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/6a08416bd9315041c09c72f61cf27cc1.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Vichy Normaderm PhytoAction Cleanser a great fit for oily skin?

This cleanser is a great fit because salicylic acid and zinc gluconate help clear away excess oil and unclog pores to reduce shine. It also features soothing ingredients that keep oily skin calm without feeling stripped or irritated.
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 oily skin?

Salicylic acid and zinc gluconate make this cleanser a great fit for oily skin because they help clear out pores and control excess shine. The formula also includes soothing ingredients like Bifida lysate ferment and is free of harsh components, making it gentle and safe for daily use.
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 oily skin?

Salicylic acid helps oily skin by reducing excess oil and keeping pores clear. It may also improve overall skin hydration while managing breakouts.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40682377/), [Experimental Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30972839/)

### What does Vichy Volcanic Water do for oily skin?

Vichy Volcanic Water helps soothe oily skin and strengthens your skin barrier against daily stress. It is unlikely to cause heavy or greasy buildup while supporting your skin defenses.
Sources: [Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34979589/)

### Where does this cleanser go in a skincare routine for oily skin?

This cleanser goes as the first step in your morning routine and the second step in your evening routine after a makeup remover. Salicylic acid and zinc gluconate help clear pores and control excess shine while keeping your skin calm.
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, but it is best to use them at different times of day or alternate days to keep your skin calm. Using a salicylic acid cleanser alongside strong treatments may dry out your skin, so watch for any irritation and scale back if needed.

### How often should I use this cleanser?

This cleanser is a great fit for your oily skin because salicylic acid and zinc gluconate help control excess shine and clear out pores. Daily use is generally well-tolerated and helps keep your skin feeling clean and balanced.
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 oily skin?

This cleanser is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts because it uses salicylic acid and zinc gluconate to clear dead skin cells and keep oil in check. It may cause mild initial purging as it cleans out debris from deep inside pores.
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 oily skin and body breakouts, but the thin skin around the eyes is very delicate and may become dry or irritated by active ingredients like salicylic acid. Daily use of a cleanser with salicylic acid and zinc gluconate helps clear pores and reduce acne on body skin.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/), [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 oily skin

- [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — CA$20.96 at Amazon
- [IS Clinical Cleansing Complex](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/is-clinical/cleansing-complex/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — CA$82.99 at Amazon
- [Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cetaphil/daily-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — CA$17.98 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — CA$37.60 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — CA$29.98 at Amazon
- SPF: [La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Dry Touch Sunscreen SPF 60](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/la-roche-posay/anthelios-clear-skin-dry-touch-sunscreen-spf-60/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — CA$35.95 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/oily-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/vichy/normaderm-phytoaction-daily-deep-cleansing-gel/for/oily-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/vichy/normaderm-phytoaction-daily-deep-cleansing-gel/for/oily-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/vichy/normaderm-phytoaction-daily-deep-cleansing-gel/for/oily-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/vichy/normaderm-phytoaction-daily-deep-cleansing-gel/for/oily-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/vichy/normaderm-phytoaction-daily-deep-cleansing-gel/for/oily-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/vichy/normaderm-phytoaction-daily-deep-cleansing-gel/for/oily-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/vichy/normaderm-phytoaction-daily-deep-cleansing-gel/for/oily-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/vichy/normaderm-phytoaction-daily-deep-cleansing-gel/for/oily-skin (this page)
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/vichy/normaderm-phytoaction-daily-deep-cleansing-gel/for/oily-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/vichy/normaderm-phytoaction-daily-deep-cleansing-gel/for/oily-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/vichy/normaderm-phytoaction-daily-deep-cleansing-gel/for/oily-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/vichy/normaderm-phytoaction-daily-deep-cleansing-gel/for/oily-skin