# Murad Clarifying Cleanser for oily acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/murad/clarifying-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: [Murad](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/brands/murad)
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 exfoliation for your oily skin due to salicylic acid and urea, which help cleanse pores and manage oiliness, but may not be specialized enough for your acne, blemishes, and breakouts.
- Yeast amino acids and trehalose provide humectant action, supporting hydration for your oily skin type.
- The formula is safe for your skin, with no risks of irritation from harsh ingredients and the inclusion of soothing components.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Salicylic Acid, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Camellia Oleifera Leaf Extract, Menthol, Silver Citrate

## What the research says

- Sodium trehalose sulfate decreased transepidermal water loss and increased stratum corneum water content in participants with low stratum corneum water content when applied for 4 weeks compared to placebo. ([Skin Research and Technology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38606717/))
- Topical moisturizers improved skin barrier function and surface moisture, while a postbiotic moisturizer with yeast extract uniquely supported microbiome balance and modulated biomarkers of skin barrier, structure, and inflammation in participants and ex vivo explants exposed to environmental aggressors. ([Journal of Clinical Medicine, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37763018/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- The cytotoxic effect of sodium lauryl sulphate on normal human keratinocytes was significantly decreased when combined with cocamidopropyl betaine, Tween 20, and Tween 80 at concentrations well below the critical micelle concentration. ([Skin Pharmacology and Applied Skin Physiology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12677096/))
- Topical green tea extract significantly improved clinical symptoms, tear breakup times, and meibomian gland health compared to standard treatment in patients with dry eye and Meibomian Gland Dysfunction. ([Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28384900/))
- Topical low-dose green tea extract reduces UVB-induced p53 expression and apoptosis in human skin keratinocytes compared to placebo. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18631247/))
- An anti-acne hydrogel containing Aloe barbadensis, Garcinia mangostana, and Camellia sinensis extracts showed superior antiacne and antiblotch activities compared to 1% clindamycin gel in sixty subjects with mild-moderate acne. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31239743/))
- Coadministration of 40% topical L-menthol with 10% trans-cinnamaldehyde reduced spontaneous pain intensity, neurogenic inflammation, primary and secondary mechanical hyperalgesia, and heat hyperalgesia, but not cold hyperalgesia, in 14 healthy volunteers. ([The Journal of Pain, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27260636/))
- Topical application of menthol-based cooling gel decreased intramuscular temperature by 1.9 °C and increased cutaneous blood flow by 0.3 ml/min in healthy males compared to placebo gel. ([International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30038834/))
- Cooling skin temperature or applying topical menthol reduced histamine-induced itch intensity and flare diameters in healthy male volunteers. ([Neuroscience Letters, 1995](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7624016/))

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

- Topical application of Lactobacillus plantarum-GMNL6 enhanced collagen synthesis and SPTSSA gene expression while reducing melanin synthesis, Staphylococcus aureus biofilm, and Cutibacterium acnes proliferation, leading to clinical improvements in skin moisture, color, spots, wrinkles, UV spots, and porphyrins in human volunteers. ([International Journal of Medical Sciences, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33526970/))
- A panthenol-enriched mask improved skin hydration, regulated sebum, and reduced redness and TEWL across dry sensitive, oily sensitive, and oily acne skin subgroups with excellent tolerance and no adverse reactions. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38366684/))
- A novel emulsion containing niacinamide, lens esculenta seed extract, and white willow bark extract effectively improved acne, blackheads, and conspicuous facial pores in 30 subjects with oily skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38140770/))

## What reviewers say

This gel cleanser is widely praised by users with oily and acne-prone skin for its ability to significantly reduce breakouts and control excess oil using encapsulated salicylic acid. While effective for deep cleaning, it is potent and frequently cited as drying or stripping, making it less suitable for sensitive or dry skin types without careful hydration. The summary is based on a very large amount of data and should be definitely taken into account.

- Liked: Clears acne effectively (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Controls oil and shine (often mentioned)
- Liked: Deep clean feeling (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Drying and stripping (often mentioned)
- Liked: Cooling sensation (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Lathers well (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Causes purging/breakouts (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: High price point (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Medicinal scent (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Packaging 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

### How well does Murad Clarifying Cleanser work for oily acne-prone skin?

Murad Clarifying Cleanser works reasonably well for your oily acne-prone skin by offering moderate exfoliation that helps cleanse pores and manage oiliness, but it may not be specialized enough for all your breakouts. To fit your skin better, a cleanser of this type needs soothing and effective ingredients like niacinamide, ceramides, or probiotics to address acne while maintaining skin clarity without irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/), [BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/)

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

Salicylic acid and urea help cleanse pores and manage oiliness, while yeast amino acids and trehalose support hydration for your oily skin type. To better fit oily and acne-prone skin, a product of this type needs soothing and effective ingredients like niacinamide, ceramides, or probiotics to address breakouts and balance oil production without irritation.
Sources: [Skin Research and Technology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38606717/), [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 Cocamidopropyl Betaine do for oily acne-prone skin?

Cocamidopropyl betaine is a cleansing ingredient that helps wash away dirt and excess oil from oily, acne-prone skin, though it may occasionally cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some people. This type of skin needs gentle cleansers and oil-reducing ingredients that clear pores while keeping the skin barrier healthy and calm.

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

This cleanser fits into both your morning and evening routine as the first step of cleansing your skin. To properly care for oily, acne-prone skin, a cleanser of this type needs soothing ingredients and gentle pore-clearing components like salicylic acid to help manage oiliness.

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

You can use this cleanser in your routine, but because it exfoliates, apply your retinol at a different time of day or on alternate days to help prevent irritation. Oily acne-prone skin typically needs a gentle, non-exfoliating cleanser combined with targeted acne treatments and barrier-supporting ingredients when using retinol.

### How often should I use this cleanser?

You can use this cleanser daily in the morning and evening as part of your routine. This type of product for oily acne-prone skin needs specialized blemish-fighting ingredients and targeted acne treatments to better manage breakouts.

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

Yes, this cleanser may cause breakouts or purging for your oily acne-prone skin, as reviewers moderately complain about this effect. While it helps manage oiliness with salicylic acid, cleansers for this skin work best when they include specialized blemish-fighting ingredients and soothing components that prevent irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/), [BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/)

### 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 thin skin directly around the eyes. Because the eyelid skin is among the thinnest on the body, harsh cleansers may easily cause dryness and irritation there.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/)

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

It has no drying alcohol and contains fragrance (limonene and parfum).

## 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: €32.00 (https://www.amazon.de/dp/B0FFWHK5MG?tag=lovi-care-web-product05-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Notino: €25.50 (https://www.notino.de/murad/blemish-control-control-clarifying-cleanser-reinigungsgel-fuer-fettige-und-mischhaut/p-16356028/)
Prices checked 16 Oct – 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Urea, Yeast Amino Acids, Trehalose, Inositol, Taurine, Betaine, Methyl Gluceth-20, Ppg-26-Buteth-26, Peg-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Butylene Glycol, Cimicifuga Racemosa Root Extract, Camellia Oleifera Leaf Extract, Silver Citrate, Peg-150 Distearate, Menthol, Zea Mays Starch, Hydrolyzed Corn Starch, Hydrolyzed Corn Octenylsuccinate Starch, Glyceryl Stearate, Cocamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Polysorbate 80, Citric Acid, Disodium Edta, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Chlorphenesin, Limonene, Citrus Reticulata Oil Leaf Tangerine Oil Leaf, Citronella Oil, Lemon Peel Oil, Citrus Aurantifolia Oil, Lavandula Hybrida Oil, Citrus Nobilis Peel Oil Mandarin Orange Peel Oil, Prunus Armeniaca Kernel Oil Apricot Kernel Oil, Parfum, Salicylic Acid
## 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/murad/clarifying-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/murad/clarifying-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/murad/clarifying-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/murad/clarifying-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/murad/clarifying-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/murad/clarifying-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/murad/clarifying-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/murad/clarifying-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/murad/clarifying-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/murad/clarifying-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/murad/clarifying-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/murad/clarifying-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/murad/clarifying-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin