# Skinbetter Science Refining Foam Cleanser for combination skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/skinbetter-science/refining-foam-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 Spain.

Brand: [Skinbetter Science](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/brands/skinbetter-science)
Category: [Cleansers](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/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.

Works for combination skin; other cleansers fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate cleansing for your combination skin, as sodium lauroyl methyl isethionate and cocamidopropyl hydroxysultaine effectively lift dirt and oil.
- The blend of glycolic acid, lactic acid, and salicylic acid provides moderate exfoliation to address oily shine, while also being highly suitable for your combination skin type by regulating desquamation.
- The safety profile is excellent, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/skinbetter-science/refining-foam-cleanser/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/skinbetter-science/refining-foam-cleanser/for/dry-skin): Caution
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/skinbetter-science/refining-foam-cleanser/for/combination-skin): Average (this page)
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/skinbetter-science/refining-foam-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/skinbetter-science/refining-foam-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/skinbetter-science/refining-foam-cleanser/for/dark-spots): Low
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/skinbetter-science/refining-foam-cleanser/for/mature-skin): Low
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/skinbetter-science/refining-foam-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Caution
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/skinbetter-science/refining-foam-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, Salicylic Acid

## What the research says

- 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/))
- 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/))
- Repeated short-contact 70% glycolic acid peels provided superior results in atrophic acne scars compared to daily low-strength glycolic acid cream or placebo in 58 women over 24 weeks. ([International Journal of Dermatology, 2000](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11095203/))
- Serial glycolic acid peels combined with a modified Kligman formula significantly reduced facial PIH severity in Indian patients compared to the modified Kligman formula alone. ([Dermatologic Surgery, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28114204/))
- Application of a cream containing lactic acid 12% and pramoxine HCl 1% significantly improved skin dryness, hydration, and itch compared with a nontreated control in 24 women with a history of dry itchy skin. ([Cutis, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15027519/))
- Topical 12% ammonium lactate produced a significant sparing of epidermal and dermal atrophy induced by clobetasol propionate in human volunteers, without influencing the corticosteroid's bioavailability or antiinflammatory properties. ([Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 1992](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1597538/))
- A lactic acid/ceramide lotion significantly improved skin moisturization and desquamation compared to no treatment in women with dry, rough skin on the anterior shins. ([The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33178384/))
- 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/))

## What reviewers say

This cleanser is praised for its ability to gently exfoliate and brighten skin, with many users reporting smoother texture and reduced congestion after consistent use. While it is highly effective for normal to oily skin types, some users with drier skin or those accustomed to the previous "Oxygen Infusion Wash" formula find the texture less satisfying or occasionally drying.

- Liked: Gentle exfoliation (often mentioned)
- Liked: Improves skin texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Brightens complexion (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Non-stripping cleanse (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Less luxurious feel (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Can be drying (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Inconsistent deep clean (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

### How well does Refining Foam Cleanser work for combination skin?

This cleanser works moderately well for your combination skin, as it lifts dirt and oil while offering moderate exfoliation to handle oily shine. A cleanser for this skin needs to clean effectively without stripping moisture, balance oil and maintain hydration for dry and oily areas, and include soothing ingredients that protect the moisture barrier.

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

Glycolic acid, lactic acid, and salicylic acid make this cleanser a good fit by providing moderate exfoliation to address oily shine and regulating shedding for your skin. To fit combination skin even better, a cleanser of this type needs to effectively cleanse without stripping moisture, support the moisture barrier with hydrating ingredients, and balance both oily and dry areas without causing irritation.

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

Glycolic acid helps smooth and brighten combination skin by gently loosening dead surface cells to speed up skin renewal. This ingredient is unlikely to cause irritation when used properly, but it needs a reliable sunscreen during the day since it makes skin more sensitive to the sun.
Sources: [Acta Dermato-venereologica, 1995](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8651024/), [Archives of Dermatological Research, 1997](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9248619/)

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

Lactic acid helps balance combination skin by gently removing dead surface cells and managing oil while keeping moisture locked in. It is unlikely to cause irritation when used properly, and instead supports a smooth, clear, and well-hydrated complexion across both oily and dry areas. This type of skin needs ingredients that gently clear pores without stripping natural moisture, such as balanced hydrators and mild exfoliants.
Sources: [Frontiers in Physiology, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42326996/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39050562/)

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

This cleanser goes in your morning and evening routine, before hydrating toners, moisturizers, and sunscreens. To work best for your combination skin, this type of cleanser needs gentle ingredients that lift dirt and oil while lightly exfoliating to manage oily shine.

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

You can use this cleanser in your routine, but combination skin needs gentle hydration and barrier-protecting ingredients to safely handle strong exfoliants and retinol without dryness.

### How often should I use this cleanser?

This cleanser works for your combination skin once a week to start, and people who tolerate it well and see good results can carefully use it more often. It has an excellent safety profile with no risks of irritation due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients. Combination skin of this type needs a product that provides gentle cleansing along with mild acids to lift dirt and oil while addressing oily shine.

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

This cleanser is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts on combination skin because its ingredients effectively lift away dirt and oil while regulating skin shedding. However, a product for this skin needs gentle exfoliating acids like glycolic, lactic, and salicylic acid to keep pores clear without being harsh.

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

This cleanser is generally too strong for the very thin skin around the eyes and works better on the body if you need help with oily shine. To properly care for combination skin, a product of this type needs gentle cleansers that lift dirt and oil without stripping moisture, alongside soothing ingredients to keep skin calm.
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 combination skin

- [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €39.80 at Amazon
- [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €20.50 at Amazon
- [Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/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/es/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €36.00 at Amazon
- Pre-Cleanser: [Shu Uemura Ultime8 Sublime Beauty Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/shu-uemura/ultime8-sublime-beauty-cleansing-oil/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €97.52 at Amazon
- Cleansing Toner: [Medicube Zero Pore Pad 2.0](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/medicube/zero-pore-pad-2-0/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €16.98 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Water, Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Glycerin, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Sodium Pca, Sodium Lactate, Sodium Chloride, Citric Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin
## 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/skinbetter-science/refining-foam-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/skinbetter-science/refining-foam-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/skinbetter-science/refining-foam-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/skinbetter-science/refining-foam-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/skinbetter-science/refining-foam-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/skinbetter-science/refining-foam-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/skinbetter-science/refining-foam-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/skinbetter-science/refining-foam-cleanser/for/combination-skin (this page)
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skinbetter-science/refining-foam-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/skinbetter-science/refining-foam-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/skinbetter-science/refining-foam-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/skinbetter-science/refining-foam-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/skinbetter-science/refining-foam-cleanser/for/combination-skin