# CeraVe SA Smoothing Cleanser for oily acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cerave/sa-smoothing-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin

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

Brand: [CeraVe](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/brands/cerave)
Category: [Cleansers](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/best/cleansers)

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

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

## Why this fit

- Offers excellent cleansing and pore-clearing benefits for your oily, acne-prone skin due to salicylic acid and gluconolactone, which effectively exfoliate and manage oiliness.
- Niacinamide and ceramides further support your skin by providing soothing effects and strengthening the skin barrier, enhancing overall skin health.
- The formula is safe for your oily skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the presence of beneficial components.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cerave/sa-smoothing-cleanser/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cerave/sa-smoothing-cleanser/for/dry-skin): High
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cerave/sa-smoothing-cleanser/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cerave/sa-smoothing-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cerave/sa-smoothing-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cerave/sa-smoothing-cleanser/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cerave/sa-smoothing-cleanser/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cerave/sa-smoothing-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cerave/sa-smoothing-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High (this page)

## Key ingredients

Salicylic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Ceramide Np, Niacinamide, Glycerin

## What the research says

- Gluconolactone 14% solution significantly improved mild to moderate acne by reducing inflamed and non-inflamed lesions similarly to 5% benzoyl peroxide, but with fewer side-effects in 150 patients. ([The Australasian Journal of Dermatology, 1992](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1303072/))
- 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/))
- Glycolic acid, salicylic acid, gluconolactone, and licochalcone A combined with 0.1% adapalene showed no hindrance compared to adapalene monotherapy and provided benefits in reducing complications in 25 subjects with mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30858720/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- Topical application of 0.1% hyaluronic acid formulations of different molecular weights led to significant improvements in skin hydration and elasticity, with low-molecular-weight formulations also significantly reducing wrinkle depth in seventy-six female subjects compared to a vehicle control. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/))
- Topical application of hyaluronic acid in conjunction with free gingival graft significantly reduced donor site postoperative pain until day 7 compared to normal saline, with no significant differences in graft dimensions or patient satisfaction. ([Clinical Oral Investigations, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34623507/))
- Treatment with a hyaluronic acid-containing mouth rinse or topical gel led to significant lesion reduction, pain relief, and normalization of lesion color in adult patients with minor recurrent aphthous stomatitis, with the gel formulation showing an earlier healing onset at 3 days. ([BMC Oral Health, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31311529/))
- Topical post-laser application of human adipocyte-derived mesenchymal stem cell media combined with niacinamide significantly improved wrinkle index, melanin index, patient satisfaction, and investigator esthetic improvement scores compared to vehicle cream in patients with aging skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33103316/))
- Topical nicotinamide prevented solar-simulated UV-induced immunosuppression in healthy volunteers, and men experienced immunosuppression at solar-simulated UV doses three times lower than those required for women. ([The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17882270/))
- Topical 5% niacinamide applied twice daily for 12 weeks reduced fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmented spots, red blotchiness, and skin sallowness, and improved skin elasticity compared to vehicle control in 50 female white subjects with facial photoaging. ([Dermatologic Surgery, 2005](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16029679/))
- A single application of a moisturizing fluid containing hyaluronic acid 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract significantly increased skin hydration by 29% and reduced transepidermal water loss at 24 hours compared to baseline and an untreated control site in twenty healthy women. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/))
- The emollient V0034CR significantly reduced TEWL compared to vehicle and vehicle plus glycerol, and significantly increased corneometry scores compared to vehicle and vehicle plus petrolatum in healthy volunteers with dry skin, demonstrating combined barrier function improvement from petrolatum and hydration improvement from glycerol. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31532576/))
- Ten days of treatment with a cream containing 20% glycerin significantly increased skin hydration measured by corneometer values in 17 healthy volunteers compared to a placebo cream, but showed no influence on transepidermal water loss or skin sensitivity to an irritating surfactant. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18498456/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users consistently praise this cleanser for effectively retexturizing rough, bumpy skin and managing mild acne without harsh physical scrubs. While the majority find it gentle enough for daily use, a notable minority with sensitive or very dry skin report it can be stripping or cause an initial "purging" phase before results are seen.

- Liked: Effective body cleanser (often mentioned)
- Liked: Smoothes rough texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Clears mild acne (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Gentle non-foaming formula (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Drying for some (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Causes skin purging (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Ineffective for severe acne (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Packaging pump issues (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this cleanser as part of your AM and PM routine. Start using it daily to help clear your breakouts.
- Apply this cleanser as the first step in the morning and right after your pre-cleanser in the evening. Follow it with your toner and moisturizer.
- Gently massage a small amount of the cleanser onto your face using circular motions. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and pat dry.
- Apply the cleanser on slightly damp skin to help clean deeply and remove excess oil. This works best for oily skin types.
- Avoid the sensitive eye area during application. Do a patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/6a08416bd9315041c09c72f61cf27cc1.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes CeraVe SA Smoothing Cleanser a great fit for oily acne-prone skin?

CeraVe SA Smoothing Cleanser is a great fit because salicylic acid and gluconolactone effectively clear pores and manage oiliness on oily, acne-prone skin. Niacinamide and ceramides also calm your skin and help keep it strong and healthy.
Sources: [The Australasian Journal of Dermatology, 1992](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1303072/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

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

Salicylic acid and gluconolactone make this cleanser a great fit because they effectively exfoliate and manage oiliness on oily acne-prone skin. Niacinamide and ceramides further support your skin by providing soothing effects and strengthening the skin barrier without causing irritation.
Sources: [The Australasian Journal of Dermatology, 1992](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1303072/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

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

Salicylic acid helps clear breakouts and keeps oily skin balanced by reducing oil levels and calming inflammation. It is well suited for oily, acne-prone skin because it targets pimples while helping keep the skin hydrated and protected.
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 Hyaluronic Acid do for oily acne-prone skin?

Hyaluronic acid helps calm oily acne-prone skin by reducing sebum production and lipid synthesis in sebaceous glands. It also supports skin barrier function and improves hydration while helping deliver treatments without causing irritation.
Sources: [The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28163068/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35796638/)

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

This cleanser goes in your morning and evening routine as the main cleansing step, and it is also included in your weekly routine. It helps clear pores and manage oiliness for oily, acne-prone skin using salicylic acid and gluconolactone, while niacinamide and ceramides soothe the skin and strengthen the skin barrier.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31461548/), [The Australasian Journal of Dermatology, 1992](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1303072/)

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

You can use this cleanser with retinol by using it in your routine before applying your retinol treatment. Using a cleanser with gentle exfoliants and barrier-supporting ingredients helps clear pores and manage oil while keeping your skin calm.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37276158/)

### How often should I use this cleanser?

This cleanser is a great fit for your oily, acne-prone skin and can be used daily in both your morning and evening routines. It helps clear pores and manage oiliness effectively while keeping your skin calm and supported.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38051857/)

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

This cleanser is unlikely to clog pores and is a great fit because salicylic acid and gluconolactone effectively exfoliate and manage oiliness on oily acne-prone skin. It carries a low likelihood of causing skin purging, while niacinamide and ceramides help soothe the skin and strengthen the skin barrier.
Sources: [The Australasian Journal of Dermatology, 1992](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1303072/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

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

You can use this cleanser on your body, but it is best to avoid the very thin skin directly around your eyes. Salicylic acid and gluconolactone help clear pores and manage oiliness safely on thicker areas without harsh irritation.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/), [The Australasian Journal of Dermatology, 1992](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1303072/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for oily acne-prone skin

- [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €11.75 at Amazon
- [Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cetaphil/daily-facial-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €24.59 at Amazon
- [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Low pH Gel Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-low-ph-gel-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €16.90 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €36.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [innisfree Green Tea Seed Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/innisfree/green-tea-seed-hyaluronic-acid-hydrating-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €37.64 at Amazon
- SPF: [Dear, Klairs All-day Airy Sunscreen](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/dear-klairs/all-day-airy-sunscreen/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €21.00 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.de: €16.25 (https://www.amazon.de/dp/B09MMJS8ZM?tag=lovi-care-web-product05-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Notino: €14.70 (https://www.notino.de/cerave/sa-reinigungsgel-fuer-zarte-haut-fuer-normale-und-trockene-haut/p-16139493/)
- Lookfantastic: €16.68 (https://www.lookfantastic.de/p/cerave-sa-smoothing-cleanser-with-salicylic-acid-for-dry-rough-bumpy-skin-236ml/12207663/)
Prices checked 10 Oct – 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Gluconolactone, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Peg-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate, Ceramide Np, Ceramide Ap, Ceramide Eop, Carbomer, Calcium Gluconate, Salicylic Acid, Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Cholesterol, Phenoxyethanol, Disodium Edta, Tetrasodium Edta, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Phytosphingosine, Xanthan Gum, Ethylhexylglycerin
## 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/cerave/sa-smoothing-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/sa-smoothing-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cerave/sa-smoothing-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cerave/sa-smoothing-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cerave/sa-smoothing-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/cerave/sa-smoothing-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/cerave/sa-smoothing-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/cerave/sa-smoothing-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/sa-smoothing-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/cerave/sa-smoothing-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/cerave/sa-smoothing-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/cerave/sa-smoothing-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cerave/sa-smoothing-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin