# Dr. Barbara Sturm Enzyme Cleanser for dry sensitive skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for dry sensitive skin.**
Dry Skin Fit: Average · Effectiveness: High · Safety: Excellent.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/dr-barbara-sturm/enzyme-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-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 dry sensitive skin: flakiness, tightness, redness, fine lines, and wrinkles. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for dry sensitive skin; other products fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate exfoliation for your dry and sensitive skin as subtilisin and lipase provide mild enzymatic cleansing, though it lacks sufficient emollients and humectants to fully address dryness.
- Ascorbic acid offers antioxidant benefits and supports skin health, but the overall formula could be enhanced with more hydrating ingredients for optimal comfort.
- The product is safe for your skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the inclusion of 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
- [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 (this page)
- [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/))
- 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 PM once a week as part of your weekly routine, and start slowly to check your skin's tolerance.
- Place this step right after your regular cleanser and before your hydrating toner, following the weekly routine order.
- Mix the powder with a little water in your hands to create a soft foam, then gently massage it onto your face without rubbing hard.
- Apply the foam on slightly damp skin to keep your dry flakes comfortable and safe from extra irritation.
- Be sure to avoid the delicate eye area and do a patch test before your very first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/2d8db6e67371d665a6a7736b5ed5d762.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does Dr. Barbara Sturm Enzyme Cleanser work for dry sensitive skin?

This cleanser works moderately well for dry sensitive skin by providing mild enzyme exfoliation and vitamin C, but it lacks enough rich moisturizing and softening ingredients to fully comfort dry skin. Enzyme powder cleansers for this skin type need extra hydrating and soothing ingredients to keep skin comfortable while cleansing.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/)

### Which ingredients make this cleanser a good fit for dry sensitive skin?

Subtilisin and lipase make this cleanser a fit by providing mild enzymatic cleansing, while ascorbic acid offers antioxidant benefits. However, because it lacks sufficient soft, moisturizing ingredients to fully address dryness, a product for this skin needs extra soothing and hydrating ingredients.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/)

### What does Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate do for dry sensitive skin?

Sodium lauroyl glutamate is very gentle on dry sensitive skin because it causes minimal changes to the skin barrier compared to harsher cleansers. This ingredient helps keep skin comfortable without stripping away natural moisture, making it less likely to cause irritation.
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 dry sensitive skin?

Vitamin C helps brighten and smooth dry sensitive skin while reducing wrinkles and improving elasticity. It is generally well tolerated and unlikely to cause irritation when properly formulated, leaving the skin looking more radiant.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/), [Antioxidants, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38397772/)

### Where does it go in a skincare routine for dry sensitive skin?

This cleanser fits into your morning and evening routine, starting at once a week before you carefully work up to using it more often if your skin tolerates it well. To keep your dry skin comfortable, a product of this type needs extra soothing and hydrating ingredients like emollients and humectants.

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

You can use this cleanser in your routine when using retinol, provided you apply it before your retinol treatment and follow up with plenty of moisturizer to prevent dryness. This product is unlikely to cause irritation on your dry sensitive skin, but it needs added hydrating ingredients and emollients to fully comfort this skin type.

### How often should I use it?

Start by using this cleanser once a week, and if your skin feels comfortable and tolerates it well, you may carefully use it more often. A product for this skin needs added moisturizing ingredients and soothing components to fully address dryness while gently cleansing.

### Can this cleanser clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for dry sensitive skin?

This cleanser is unlikely to clog pores, cause breakouts, or lead to purging on dry sensitive skin because its formula avoids heavy, pore-clogging ingredients. However, a product of this type needs extra hydrating ingredients like rich emollients and soothing humectants to keep dry skin comfortable while cleansing.

### Is it fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for dry sensitive skin

- [SKINFOOD Black Sugar Perfect Enzyme Powder Wash](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-enzyme-powder-wash/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — High fit — €27.00 at Amazon
- [VT Cica Mild Powder Wash](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/vt/cica-mild-powder-wash/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — High fit — €5.60 at Notino

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €8.85 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [SKIN1004 Centella Asiatica Toning Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/skin1004/centella-asiatica-toning-toner/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €19.89 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [Torriden DIVE-IN Mild Sunscreen](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/torriden/dive-in-mild-sunscreen/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €18.00 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/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/dr-barbara-sturm/enzyme-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/dr-barbara-sturm/enzyme-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/dr-barbara-sturm/enzyme-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin (this page)
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/dr-barbara-sturm/enzyme-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/dr-barbara-sturm/enzyme-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/dr-barbara-sturm/enzyme-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/dr-barbara-sturm/enzyme-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/dr-barbara-sturm/enzyme-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/dr-barbara-sturm/enzyme-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/dr-barbara-sturm/enzyme-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/dr-barbara-sturm/enzyme-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/dr-barbara-sturm/enzyme-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin