# Dr. Barbara Sturm Enzyme Cleanser for acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/dr-barbara-sturm/enzyme-cleanser/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 Germany.

Brand: [Dr. Barbara Sturm](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/brands/dr-barbara-sturm)
Category: [Exfoliants](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/best/exfoliators)

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 products fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Offers excellent cleansing and moderate exfoliation for your combination skin, as subtilisin and lipase effectively break down impurities and aid in skin renewal, addressing your concerns with acne and blemishes.
- Ascorbic acid further supports skin health by providing antioxidant benefits and promoting a brighter complexion.
- The formula is safe for your skin, containing no harsh ingredients and including soothing components.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate, Ascorbic Acid, Subtilisin, Lipase, Cellulose

## What the research says

- A topical serum containing vitamin C, vitamin E, and raspberry leaf cell culture extract improved skin color, elasticity, radiance, smoothness, scaliness, and wrinkles compared to the untreated contralateral side in fifty female volunteers. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/))
- Bacterial cellulose membranes with and without glycerin showed good skin compatibility and no barrier disruption in human subjects compared to a negative control, with glycerin-containing membranes additionally providing a statistically significant skin moisturizing effect (p=0.044). ([European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23973717/))
- Bacterial cellulose masks incorporated with vegetable extract increased skin hydration by 76% in 75% of volunteers, while propolis extract decreased hydration by 32.6% in 80% of volunteers, demonstrating effectiveness for skincare applications. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28963772/))
- Topical application of 5% vitamin C cream significantly improved global clinical scores, increased skin microrelief density, and induced elastic tissue repair in photoaged skin compared to excipient control in healthy female volunteers. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12823436/))
- Ascorbic acid 2-glucoside gel significantly reduced gingival melanin pigmentation after 4 weeks compared to placebo in 73 subjects with symmetric pigmentation. ([Journal of Periodontology, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19186973/))
- Topical application of VC-IP cream twice daily for 8 weeks reduces periorbital wrinkles in female subjects compared to a placebo cream. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34910367/))
- Nanofibrillar cellulose dressing provides efficient wound healing comparable to polylactide-based copolymer dressings at skin graft donor sites in 24 patients, with significant improvements in observer scar thickness and vascularity and skin elasticity. ([Advances in Wound Care, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32117583/))
- AgNP-BC exhibited over 99% reduction in Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa with no cytotoxicity, allowing epidermal cell attachment and growth compared to unmodified bacterial cellulose. ([Carbohydrate Polymers, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24507345/))
- Cellulose acetate and soy protein hydrolysate nanofibrous dressings promote fibroblast proliferation in vitro and accelerate wound healing with reduced scar formation in vivo. ([Advanced Healthcare Materials, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29359866/))

## What reviewers say

This powder cleanser is highly praised for its ability to provide a deep yet gentle exfoliation, leaving skin feeling exceptionally smooth and refined. It is particularly effective for oily and combination skin types, helping to balance sebum and clear pores. However, users with dry or sensitive skin should use it with caution as it can cause dryness or tightness if applied too frequently.

- Liked: Smoother skin texture (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle deep clean (often mentioned)
- Liked: Ideal for oily/combo skin (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Long-lasting product (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Travel-friendly format (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Drying for dry skin (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: High price point (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Messy application (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Risk of irritation (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant smell (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your enzyme powder cleanser as part of your PM weekly routine. Start by using it once a week and build up slowly if your skin is happy.
- Place this step after your regular cleanser and before applying your hydrating toner. Follow the weekly routine order for the best results.
- Mix the powder with a little water in your hands to create a soft foam. Gently massage onto your face and avoid rubbing too hard.
- Apply the enzyme powder cleanser on slightly damp skin to help activate the formula evenly. Make sure your face is clean before applying.
- Avoid the sensitive eye area during application. Do a patch test first and do not combine this with strong acids on the same night.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/2d8db6e67371d665a6a7736b5ed5d762.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Dr. Barbara Sturm Enzyme Cleanser a great fit for acne-prone skin?

Dr. Barbara Sturm Enzyme Cleanser is a great fit because its enzymes help clear away impurities and dead skin cells to calm breakouts, while vitamin C brightens your complexion. The gentle formula is also safe and soothing for your skin.

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

Subtilisin and lipase make this cleanser a great fit for acne-prone skin because they effectively break down impurities and help clear blemishes, while ascorbic acid brings antioxidant benefits for a brighter complexion. The gentle formula is also safe and soothing for everyday use.

### What does Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate do for acne-prone skin?

Sodium lauroyl glutamate is a very gentle cleansing ingredient that is unlikely to strip or irritate acne-prone skin. It helps lift away oil and dirt while causing minimal disruption to the skin's natural protective barrier compared to harsher cleansers.
Sources: [Dermatology, 1997](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9187840/), [Dermatologic Therapy, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14728695/)

### What does Vitamin C do for acne-prone skin?

Vitamin C helps brighten skin, smooth out uneven tones, and fade dark spots left behind by breakouts. It is also packed with antioxidants that may help protect acne-prone skin from everyday environmental stress.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39231081/)

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

This enzyme powder goes into your weekly routine, starting at once a week and used more often only if your skin handles it well. In your daily morning and evening steps, it serves as your main cleanser before applying toners and moisturizers.

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

You can use this enzyme powder cleanser with retinol by alternating days or using the cleanser in the morning and your retinol at night to help prevent dryness and irritation. The formula is safe and gentle for acne-prone skin, as it contains no harsh ingredients while helping to break down impurities and support skin renewal.

### How often should I use this cleanser?

Start by using this enzyme powder cleanser once a week, and if your skin tolerates it well and sees good results, you can carefully use it more often. It is a great fit for acne-prone skin because it effectively breaks down impurities and aids in skin renewal with gentle enzymes.

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

This cleanser is a great fit for acne-prone skin because it gently breaks down impurities and helps renew the skin without harsh ingredients. It is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts, though it is always wise to watch how your skin reacts.

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for acne-prone skin

- [By Wishtrend Green Tea & Enzyme Powder Wash](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/by-wishtrend/green-tea-and-enzyme-powder-wash/for/acne-prone-skin) — High fit — €17.32 at Amazon
- [NEEDLY Mild Enzyme Cleansing Powder](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/needly/mild-enzyme-cleansing-powder/for/acne-prone-skin) — High fit — €37.40 at Amazon
- [Fancl Deep Clear Washing Powder](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/fancl/deep-clear-washing-powder/for/acne-prone-skin) — Average fit — €19.99 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €11.75 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €16.59 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Some By Mi Yuja Niacin Brightening Moisture Gel Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/some-by-mi/yuja-niacin-brightening-moisture-gel-cream/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €13.67 at Amazon

## Where to buy

No store in Germany has a checked price for this product, so the page shows none.

## Ingredients

Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate, Talc, Cellulose, Maltodextrin, Water, Xanthan Gum, Ascorbic Acid, Subtilisin, Lipase
## 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/dr-barbara-sturm/enzyme-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/dr-barbara-sturm/enzyme-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/dr-barbara-sturm/enzyme-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/dr-barbara-sturm/enzyme-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin (this page)
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/dr-barbara-sturm/enzyme-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/dr-barbara-sturm/enzyme-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/dr-barbara-sturm/enzyme-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/dr-barbara-sturm/enzyme-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/dr-barbara-sturm/enzyme-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin
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