# The INKEY List Salicylic Acid Cleanser for combination skin

**Lovi Fit: High fit for combination skin.**
Combination Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: High · Safety: Excellent.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/combination-skin

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

Brand: [The INKEY List](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/brands/the-inkey-list)
Category: [Cleansers](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/best/cleansers)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with combination skin: an oily T-zone, enlarged pores, and dry cheeks. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

A great choice for combination skin; a few cleansers fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate exfoliation for your combination skin, as salicylic acid and zinc PCA work to decongest pores and regulate oil production, addressing your oily shine.
- Allantoin and tocopherol provide soothing benefits, ensuring a gentle experience for your combination skin.
- The formula is safe for your skin, containing no harsh ingredients and minimizing irritation risks.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Salicylic Acid, Zinc Pca, Allantoin, Glycerin, Cocamidopropyl Betaine

## What the research says

- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- Zinc PCA inhibits UVA-induced matrix metalloproteinase-1 production through suppressed AP-1 activation and enhances type I collagen synthesis by increasing SVCT2 mRNA expression in cultured normal human dermal fibroblasts. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21834944/))
- 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/))
- Prophylactic application of a topical scar gel containing Allium cepae extract, allantoin, and heparin significantly improves patient-assessed scar color, stiffness, and irregularity compared to no treatment in women following a cesarean section. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24509969/))
- 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/))
- 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/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this cleanser is highly effective for oily and acne-prone skin, with users frequently reporting reduced breakouts and controlled oiliness. Many also appreciate its gentle, non-stripping formula and affordable price. A smaller number of users noted occasional dryness or an initial worsening of acne before improvement, and some experienced packaging difficulties.

- Liked: Affordable Price (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Clears Acne (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Controls Oil (often mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle & Non-Stripping (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Drying for some (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Packaging Issues (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Purging/Breakouts (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this cleanser AM and PM as part of your daily routine. Start 3×/week and build up to daily use if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply this cleanser as the very first step in your morning routine and right after your pre-cleanser in the evening.
- Gently massage a small amount of cleanser onto your skin using circular motions. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
- For the best results , apply the cleanser directly onto slightly damp skin to help lift away excess oil.
- Avoid the immediate eye area and do a patch test before your first use to check for any sensitivity.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/6a08416bd9315041c09c72f61cf27cc1.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes The INKEY List Salicylic Acid Cleanser a great fit for combination skin?

The INKEY List Salicylic Acid Cleanser is a great fit because salicylic acid and zinc PCA decongest pores and regulate oil to help manage your oily shine, while allantoin and vitamin E keep the experience gentle. Its safe formula minimizes irritation risks so your skin stays calm and smooth.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

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

Salicylic acid and zinc PCA make this cleanser a great fit by clearing out pores and calming oily shine on combination skin. At the same time, allantoin and tocopherol help keep the routine gentle and soothing.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

### What does Salicylic Acid do for combination skin?

Salicylic acid helps clear clogged pores and balance oily areas while remaining gentle enough for dry spots on combination skin. It reduces breakouts and oiliness effectively with a low likelihood of irritation.
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/)

### What does Zinc PCA do for combination skin?

Zinc PCA helps keep combination skin clear by balancing oil and calming redness. This ingredient is unlikely to irritate your skin and works well to reduce blemishes in oily areas without drying out your face.
Sources: [The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32983333/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23652948/)

### Where does this cleanser go in a skincare routine for combination skin?

This cleanser fits into both your morning and evening routines as the first or second cleansing step. It helps clear clogged pores and balance oil production while keeping your skin calm and comfortable.

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

You can use this cleanser with retinol, but it is best to use them at different times of the day to keep your skin calm and happy. Try using this cleanser in the morning and your retinol at night to avoid overwhelming your combination skin.

### How often should I use this cleanser?

This cleanser is a great fit for your combination skin and can be used daily as part of your morning and evening routine. Salicylic acid and zinc PCA help clear pores and control oil, while soothing ingredients keep the experience gentle.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

### Can it clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for combination skin?

This cleanser is a great fit for your combination skin because salicylic acid and zinc PCA help unclog pores and control oily shine. It is unlikely to cause breakouts or purging, and it features soothing ingredients that keep your skin calm and comfortable.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

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

This cleanser is safe for use on the body, but it is best to avoid the very thin skin directly around your eyes. Its gentle formula helps clear pores and control oil without harsh irritation, making it suitable for larger areas of skin.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

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

It has no drying alcohol and contains fragrance (benzyl alcohol).

## Alternatives for combination skin

- [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €11.75 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/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €16.90 at Amazon
- [Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cetaphil/daily-facial-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — High fit — €24.59 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/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €36.00 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/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €13.67 at Amazon
- Pre-Cleanser: [Shu Uemura Ultime8 Sublime Beauty Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/shu-uemura/ultime8-sublime-beauty-cleansing-oil/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €104.00 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.de: €10.00 (https://www.amazon.de/dp/B0DTV6D1L2?tag=lovi-care-web-product05-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Notino: €6.80 (https://www.notino.de/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser-reinigungsgel-fuer-das-gesicht-mit-salicylsaeure/p-16359301/)
Prices checked 17 Oct – 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Propanediol, Glycerin, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Cocamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Peg-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate, Salicylic Acid, Peg-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate, Peg-6 Caprylic Capric Glycerides, Betaine, Zinc Pca, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Chloride, Allantoin, Sodium Hydroxide, Coco-Glucoside, Glyceryl Oleate, Benzyl Alcohol, Coconut Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Benzoate, Citric Acid, Dehydroacetic Acid, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Tocopherol, Hydrogenated Palm Glycerides Citrate
## 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/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/combination-skin (this page)
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/combination-skin