# Dr. Sam's Flawless Cleanser for oily acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/dr-sam-s/flawless-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: [Dr. Sam's](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/brands/dr-sam-s)
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.

Works for oily acne-prone skin; other cleansers fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate cleansing for your oily skin due to Peg-7 glyceryl cocoate and Poloxamer 188, which help lift impurities, while Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Powder and Tocopheryl Acetate provide general benefits but lack targeted acne-fighting ingredients.
- The formula provides antioxidant activity with Bht and Tocopheryl Acetate, suitable for oily skin, but does not offer sufficient ingredients for optimal oil control.
- The safety profile is good, with no risks of irritation for your oily skin due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Allantoin, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder, Tocopheryl Acetate Vitamin E, Disodium Edta, Citric Acid

## What the research says

- Vitamin E in O/W and W/O emulsions significantly increased stratum corneum hydration and enhanced water-binding capacity, with an optimum concentration of 5%. ([Arzneimittel-Forschung, 1998](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9706379/))
- Co-encapsulation of alpha-tocopherol and alpha-tocopheryl acetate in nanostructured lipid carrier gel formulations significantly enhanced moisture retention up to 68% and improved skin elasticity in human volunteers compared to a solution gel. ([Scientific Reports, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41309687/))
- Dermatological products containing d-alpha tocopheryl acetate showed non-comedogenic potential with less than a 50% increase in microcomedones in 12 healthy male subjects compared to octyl palmitate. ([Contemporary Clinical Trials Communications, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34471722/))
- Daily treatment with a facial serum containing multiple acids reduced post-inflammatory hyperchromia lesion grade and number by 29.4% at 56 days, and decreased skin oiliness by 30.7% at 7 days in Brazilian patients with acne vulgaris. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33617668/))
- Asiatic acid-loaded solid lipid microparticles stabilized with poloxamer-188 reduced porphyrin intensity, enhanced skin barriers, and improved skin hydration and brightness in fifteen participants with mild-to-moderate acne. ([International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38460769/))
- Topical gel containing chitosan, 0.2% chlorhexidine, allantoin and dexpanthenol did not improve postoperative comfort regarding swelling and pain, but improved the wound's aesthetic appearance following impacted lower third molar extraction compared to no gel. ([Medicina Oral, Patologia Oral Y Cirugia Bucal, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27475700/))
- A topical gel containing chitosan, chlorhexidine, allantoin, and dexpanthenol significantly reduced postoperative pain, trismus, swelling, and analgesic consumption, while improving wound healing after third molar surgery compared to a placebo. ([Medicina Oral, Patologia Oral Y Cirugia Bucal, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32683390/))
- An overnight patch containing Allium cepa extract and allantoin safely promotes scar healing after dermatologic surgery, resulting in significantly greater reductions in observer- and patient-assessed POSAS scores compared to no treatment. ([Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29948103/))
- A cream combining propolis, tea tree oil, and Aloe vera reduced erythema scars, acne severity index, and total lesion count better than erythromycin cream in sixty patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris compared to placebo. ([Clinical Pharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/))
- Topical aloe vera gel significantly accelerated split-thickness skin graft donor-site healing compared to placebo in 12 patients, but showed no significant difference in pain relief. ([Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29649056/))
- Topical application of Aloe vera cream reduced postoperative pain at rest and during defecation, accelerated wound healing at two weeks, and decreased analgesic requirements in patients after open hemorrhoidectomy compared to placebo. ([Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20569031/))
- Topical application of an antioxidant serum containing 15% ascorbic acid, 0.5% ferulic acid, and 1% tocopherol prevented particulate matter-induced degradation of extracellular matrix components, inflammation, and oxidative stress in the skin of 15 female volunteers compared to untreated controls. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40642809/))
- Topical application of an antioxidant mix containing 15% ascorbic acid, 0.5% ferulic acid, and 1% tocopherol prevented PM and UV-induced skin barrier perturbation, lipid peroxidation, inflammatory markers, MMP9 activation, and Type I collagen loss in 15 healthy females compared to untreated exposed skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38590207/))
- A topical antioxidant serum significantly reduced air pollution-induced skin pigmentation and proinflammatory gene expression ex vivo, and improved skin aging signs in 40 healthy adult females after 90 days of daily use. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35150043/))
- A novel composition containing salicylic acid, capryloyl salicylic acid, HEPES, glycolic acid, citric acid, and dioic acid showed similar tolerance and efficacy compared with clindamycin 1% and benzoyl peroxide 5% gel in subjects with acne vulgaris. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23545907/))
- Topical 20% citric acid lotion increases viable epidermal thickness and dermal glycosaminoglycan content in sun-damaged skin compared to vehicle alone. ([Dermatologic Surgery, 1997](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9256916/))

## Why other cleansers fit oily acne-prone skin better

- Topical 5% tea tree oil gel significantly improved total acne lesions and acne severity index compared to placebo in 60 patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris, showing 3.55 times and 5.75 times greater efficacy respectively. ([Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17314442/))
- A botanical face cleanser with hops and willow bark extract continuously reduced skin sebum levels without reactive seborrhea after treatment in 21 healthy volunteers compared to a sodium laureth sulfate cleanser, with neither cleanser causing skin irritation. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30022595/))
- Tea tree oil gel and face wash significantly reduced total facial acne lesions from 23.7 to 10.7 and improved investigator global assessment scores in 14 participants with mild to moderate facial acne over 12 weeks. ([The Australasian Journal of Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27000386/))

## What reviewers say

Most users appreciate that it leaves the skin feeling soft and hydrated. A significant portion of users find the non-foaming texture satisfying, though some users prefer a cleanser that lathers. It is also noted that the cleanser may struggle with waterproof eye makeup and can cause eye stinging for some.

- Liked: Gentle and non-stripping (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Effective makeup removal (often mentioned)
- Liked: Fragrance-free formula (often mentioned)
- Liked: Luxurious jelly texture (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Does not foam (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Eye makeup struggle (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Price point (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Skin reactions (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

### How well does Dr. Sam's Flawless Cleanser work for oily acne-prone skin?

Dr. Sam's Flawless Cleanser provides moderate cleansing for oily skin with a low risk of irritation, but it lacks targeted acne-fighting and oil-controlling ingredients. An ideal cleanser for this skin needs powerful ingredients that effectively clear breakouts and control oil while remaining gentle and safe.
Sources: [Contemporary Clinical Trials Communications, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34471722/)

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

Peg-7 glyceryl cocoate and Poloxamer 188 help lift impurities to provide moderate cleansing for your oily skin, while Allantoin, aloe, and Vitamin E offer soothing and antioxidant benefits. However, a cleanser for this skin type needs targeted acne-fighting ingredients and strong oil control or exfoliation to deliver the best results.
Sources: [Arzneimittel-Forschung, 1998](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9706379/), [Scientific Reports, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41309687/)

### What does Allantoin do for oily acne-prone skin?

Allantoin helps calm oily, acne-prone skin by soothing irritation and supporting a healthy skin barrier. It is often combined with other gentle ingredients to keep skin comfortable while managing breakouts.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40177799/), [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38433250/)

### What does Aloe Vera do for oily acne-prone skin?

Aloe vera helps calm oily, acne-prone skin by reducing redness, bumps, and breakouts while keeping the skin smooth. This plant-based ingredient also supports clearer skin and helps improve overall skin texture.
Sources: [Clinical Pharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/), [Frontiers in Medicine, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34095172/)

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

This cleanser goes as the first step in the morning and as the second step in the evening after your makeup remover. A mild cleanser helps gently lift impurities from oily skin without causing irritation, though this type of skin also needs targeted acne-fighting ingredients and better oil control for an ideal fit.

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

You can use this cleanser in the same routine as retinol, applying it first on damp skin to wash away impurities before you put on your retinol treatment. This gentle formula is unlikely to cause extra irritation, but oily acne-prone skin still needs targeted ingredients for oil control and blemishes.

### How often should I use this cleanser?

You can use this cleanser twice a day as part of your morning and evening routine. It gently lifts impurities from oily skin, though an oily acne-prone skin type needs targeted blemish-fighting ingredients and better oil control for a top-rated fit.

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

Dr. Sam's Flawless Cleanser is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for oily acne-prone skin because it has a good safety profile with no harsh or prohibited ingredients. However, it lacks targeted acne-fighting ingredients and sufficient oil control for this skin type, which needs active ingredients like salicylic acid or glycolic acid to properly manage oil and breakouts.
Sources: [Contemporary Clinical Trials Communications, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34471722/)

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

You can use this cleanser on your body, but you should be careful around the eyes since the skin there is much thinner and more sensitive. The gentle formula has a good safety profile with no harsh ingredients, making it unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for oily acne-prone skin

- [IS Clinical Cleansing Complex](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/is-clinical/cleansing-complex/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €58.00 at Amazon
- [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €39.99 at Amazon
- [Pyunkang Yul Calming Low pH Foaming Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/pyunkang-yul/calming-low-ph-foaming-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — €9.99 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

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

## Ingredients

Allantoin, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Powder, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate Vp Copolymer, Bht, Citric Acid, Disodium Edta, Peg-6 Caprylic Capric Glycerides, Peg-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, Phenoxyethanol, Poloxamer 188, Polysorbate 20, Sodium Hydroxymethylglycinate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Water
## 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-sam-s/flawless-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/dr-sam-s/flawless-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/dr-sam-s/flawless-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/dr-sam-s/flawless-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)
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