# The INKEY List Salicylic Acid Cleanser for oily skin

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

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

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

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

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with oily skin: shine, enlarged pores, blackheads, and blemishes. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

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

## Why this fit

- Offers excellent cleansing for your oily skin due to salicylic acid and zinc pca, which effectively decongest the pores and help regulate oil production.
- The presence of allantoin and glycerin provides soothing hydration, complementing the exfoliating action for your oily shine.
- This formula is safe for your skin, as it contains no harsh ingredients and includes components that minimize irritation.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/oily-skin): High (this page)
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/dry-skin): Caution
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Caution
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- Niacinamide/glycerin body moisturizers provided better rapid and prolonged improvement of cosmetic xerosis through functional improvement of stratum corneum barrier function compared to no treatment and conventional moisturizers in female subjects. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22206073/))
- 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 your cleanser AM and PM every day to keep your skin fresh. Always make sure to follow with a good SPF in the morning.
- Apply your cleanser as the first step in the morning or the second step in the evening before your toner.
- Gently massage a small amount onto your face using circular motions, then rinse well with water .
- You can apply this cleanser safely on damp skin for a refreshing and easy wash.
- Avoid getting the product directly into your eyes and stop use if irritation occurs.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/6a08416bd9315041c09c72f61cf27cc1.mp4

## Questions and answers

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

This cleanser is a great fit because salicylic acid and zinc PCA clean deep into the pores and help control oil. Allantoin and glycerin add soothing moisture so your skin stays comfortable while looking less shiny, and the formula is unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

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

Salicylic acid and zinc PCA make this cleanser a great fit because they deep-clean clogged pores and help control extra oil. At the same time, glycerin and allantoin add calming moisture to keep your skin comfortable and smooth.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

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

Salicylic acid helps oily skin by reducing excess oil and keeping pores clear. It may also improve overall skin hydration while managing breakouts.
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 Zinc PCA do for oily skin?

Zinc PCA helps oily skin by reducing extra oil and keeping skin calm and clear. It is unlikely to cause irritation and supports a healthy, balanced complexion.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21834944/)

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

This cleanser goes into both your morning and evening skincare routines, acting as a great fit for oily skin by helping clear out pores and control oil. It uses salicylic acid and zinc pca along with soothing ingredients to clean your skin safely without harshness.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

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

You can use this cleanser with retinol by using the cleanser first in your routine to clear your pores and control oil before applying retinol. This formula is unlikely to cause irritation when combined thoughtfully, but you may want to start slowly to let your skin adjust.

### How often should I use this cleanser?

You can use this cleanser daily to help clear your pores and manage oil production, while soothing ingredients keep your skin comfortable. Salicylic acid products generally work best when started slowly, such as once a week, so you can see how your skin adjusts before using them more frequently.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

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

This cleanser is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts, and reviews show a low rate of purging for oily skin. Salicylic acid and zinc PCA help deeply clean and clear out pores while regulating oil.
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 a great fit for your oily skin, but you should avoid using it directly around the delicate eye area where skin is much thinner. It may be used on your body, however, where thicker skin can easily tolerate its deep-cleansing and oil-regulating ingredients.
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 (benzyl alcohol).

## Alternatives for oily skin

- [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €20.50 at Amazon
- [Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/cetaphil/daily-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €24.59 at Amazon
- [CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/cerave/acne-foaming-cream-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — High fit — €10.95 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/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €36.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [SKIN1004 Centella Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/skin1004/centella-cream/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €17.49 at Amazon
- SPF: [d'Alba UVessence Mild Waterfull Sun Cream SPF 50](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/d-alba/uvessence-mild-waterfull-sun-cream-spf-50/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €16.99 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)
Prices checked 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/oily-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/oily-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/oily-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/oily-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/oily-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/oily-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/oily-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/oily-skin (this page)
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/oily-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/oily-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/oily-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/oily-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/oily-skin