# Olay Smoothing Daily Facial Cleanser for dry sensitive skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for dry sensitive skin.**
Dry Skin Fit: Average · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: Concerning.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/olay/smoothing-daily-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin

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

Brand: [Olay](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/brands/olay)
Category: [Cleansers](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/best/cleansers)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with dry sensitive skin: flakiness, tightness, redness, fine lines, and wrinkles. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for dry sensitive skin; other cleansers fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate hydration for your dry or flaky skin due to the presence of glycerin and petrolatum, but the inclusion of retinol poses risks of worsening sensitivity.
- Decyl glucoside and lauryl glucoside provide moderate cleansing, while panthenol vitamin b5 offers humectant action, though emollient ingredients are lacking for optimal results on dry skin.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/olay/smoothing-daily-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/olay/smoothing-daily-facial-cleanser/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/olay/smoothing-daily-facial-cleanser/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/olay/smoothing-daily-facial-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/olay/smoothing-daily-facial-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/olay/smoothing-daily-facial-cleanser/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/olay/smoothing-daily-facial-cleanser/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/olay/smoothing-daily-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average (this page)
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/olay/smoothing-daily-facial-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Retinol, Niacinamide, Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4 Peptide, Glycerin, Trehalose

## What the research says

- Topical bakuchiol 0.5% applied twice daily compared with retinol 0.5% applied daily significantly decreased wrinkle surface area and hyperpigmentation with no statistical difference between the compounds in 44 patients over 12 weeks, while retinol users reported more facial skin scaling and stinging. ([The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/))
- 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/))
- Topical dexpanthenol acts as a moisturizer, improves stratum corneum hydration, accelerates wound healing and epidermal regeneration, reduces erythema, and improves symptoms of skin irritation compared to vehicle or no pretreatment. ([American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/))
- A new topical panthenol-containing emollient significantly improved transepidermal water loss reduction, stratum corneum hydration, and intercellular lipid lamellae length compared with control in healthy subjects without negatively impacting bacterial viability. ([The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/))
- Topical 0.4% retinol significantly increased epidermal thickness, dermal vascularity, and extracellular matrix production by stimulating keratinocyte proliferation, endothelial cell proliferation, and fibroblast activation in naturally aged human skin compared to vehicle. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27261203/))
- Silicone particles encapsulating retinol increased its half-life by 9-fold and yielded 12-23% lower skin irritation in human subjects compared to Microsponge particles while maintaining biological activity. ([Journal of Controlled Release, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29604311/))
- Topical stabilized retinol treatment induced HAS gene expression and increased hyaluronic acid production in human skin in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo compared to vehicle. ([Archives of Dermatological Research, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28247017/))
- Topical post-laser application of human adipocyte-derived mesenchymal stem cell media combined with niacinamide significantly improved wrinkle index, melanin index, patient satisfaction, and investigator esthetic improvement scores compared to vehicle cream in patients with aging skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33103316/))
- Topical nicotinamide prevented solar-simulated UV-induced immunosuppression in healthy volunteers, and men experienced immunosuppression at solar-simulated UV doses three times lower than those required for women. ([The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17882270/))
- Topical 5% niacinamide applied twice daily for 12 weeks reduced fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmented spots, red blotchiness, and skin sallowness, and improved skin elasticity compared to vehicle control in 50 female white subjects with facial photoaging. ([Dermatologic Surgery, 2005](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16029679/))
- 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/))
- 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 chloramphenicol-betamethasone combined with sodium hyaluronate/trehalose/carbomer gel compared to chloramphenicol-betamethasone alone reduced most subjective symptoms at 1 week but increased blurred vision at 4 weeks following strabismus surgery in 31 patients, with no significant differences in conjunctival inflammation between treatments. ([Journal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31298607/))
- Topical treatment with Thealoz Duo significantly improved dry eye disease symptoms, tear break-up time, and restored tear lipid layer functionality by reducing inflammatory response proteins in moderate to severe dry eye patients over 56 days. ([Journal of Clinical Medicine, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40807147/))

## Why other cleansers fit dry sensitive skin better

- Topical bakuchiol 0.5% applied twice daily compared with retinol 0.5% applied daily significantly decreased wrinkle surface area and hyperpigmentation with no statistical difference between the compounds in 44 patients over 12 weeks, while retinol users reported more facial skin scaling and stinging. ([The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/))
- Phytosphingosine increased filaggrin metabolism and skin hydration in human skin by stimulating filaggrin biosynthesis and degradation leading to natural moisturizing factor formation. ([Archives of Dermatological Research, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28936777/))
- In 50 participants with sensitive skin, a Ceramide NP C15-containing emollient improved skin barrier function with a significant reduction in transepidermal water loss and induced modest changes in skin microbiota compared to the vehicle. ([Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41758783/))

## What reviewers say

This cleanser is highly praised for its ability to hydrate and soften the skin, making it a favorite for those with dry, sensitive, or aging skin concerns. While it excels at daily cleansing and improving overall skin texture, some users find it less effective at removing heavy or waterproof makeup.

- Liked: Leaves skin soft (often mentioned)
- Liked: Non-drying formula (often mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle on skin (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Improves skin texture (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Weak makeup removal (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Minimal lather (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Polarizing scent (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your cleanser AM and PM every day to keep your face fresh. Start slowly once a day if your dry skin feels sensitive at first.
- Apply your cleanser first thing in your routine before any toner or moisturizer. Follow the usual steps for your AM or PM daily routine.
- Gently massage the cleanser onto your face using soft circular motions. Avoid harsh rubbing to protect your dry skin.
- Apply the cleanser to slightly damp skin to help it clean gently without stripping moisture. This method is very safe for sensitive and dry skin types.
- Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and avoid the delicate eye area. Always do a patch test before using the product for the first time.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/6a08416bd9315041c09c72f61cf27cc1.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does Olay Smoothing Daily Facial Cleanser work for dry sensitive skin?

Olay Smoothing Daily Facial Cleanser works for your dry sensitive skin by offering moderate hydration and cleansing, but the retinol it contains may worsen your sensitivity. A cleanser for this skin type needs a rich blend of hydrating and barrier-repairing ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid to maintain moisture and protect the skin barrier.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/)

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

Glycerin, petrolatum, and panthenol help make this cleanser a fit for your skin by providing moderate moisture and soothing comfort. However, a cleanser for dry sensitive skin needs richer soothing ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid to lock in moisture and protect your skin without irritation.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/)

### What does Retinol do for dry sensitive skin?

Retinol is often too strong for dry sensitive skin because it may cause scaling and stinging, so a product of this type needs gentle soothing ingredients and extra moisture to keep the skin calm and smooth.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/), [Toxicology Letters, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14615068/)

### What does Niacinamide do for dry sensitive skin?

Niacinamide helps dry sensitive skin by calming irritation and keeping moisture locked in so your face feels soft and smooth. It works to build up your skin barrier and calm redness while being very gentle and unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17147561/), [International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23220080/)

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

This cleanser works in both your morning and evening routines. Because this skin needs extra moisture and ingredients that soothe and soften, a product of this type works best here when it includes rich nourishing oils and is free of harsh active ingredients that can trigger irritation.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32239984/), [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/)

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

You can use this cleanser with vitamin C by applying the vitamin C after cleansing on dry skin, though the retinol in this cleanser may increase redness and irritation. A product of this type for dry sensitive skin needs extra soothing ingredients and rich softening moisturizers to keep skin calm and smooth.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/), [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

### How often should I use this cleanser?

You can use this cleanser daily in the morning and evening as part of your routine. However, because it contains retinol, it may worsen irritation for dry, sensitive skin, so watch how your skin reacts. A product of this type for dry, sensitive skin needs extra hydrating and soothing ingredients like nourishing oils and butters, ceramides, and hyaluronic acid to keep skin soft and comfortable.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32239984/), [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

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

This cleanser may clog pores or cause breakouts because it contains mineral oil and petrolatum, and the retinol inside may also trigger purging or worsen irritation on dry sensitive skin. A product of this type needs soothing ingredients like niacinamide and panthenol to calm the skin, along with rich moisturizing oils to keep it soft and smooth.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/), [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

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

You can use this cleanser on the body, but it may cause stinging or irritation if used around the eyes due to the retinol. This skin type needs gentle, hydrating cleansers packed with soothing oils and butters to protect and nourish delicate areas.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/), [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol. Stearyl alcohol and cetyl alcohol are fatty alcohols, which soften the skin.

## Alternatives for dry sensitive skin

- [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €7.50 at Amazon
- [La Roche-Posay Hydrating Gentle Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/la-roche-posay/toleriane-hydrating-gentle-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €28.02 at Amazon
- [Torriden DIVE IN Cleansing Foam](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/torriden/dive-in-cleansing-foam/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €20.99 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Soothing Toner: [SKIN1004 Centella Asiatica Toning Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/skin1004/centella-asiatica-toning-toner/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €18.79 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [d'Alba UVessence Mild Waterfull Sun Cream SPF 50](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/d-alba/uvessence-mild-waterfull-sun-cream-spf-50/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €29.95 at Amazon
- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €16.10 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Water, Isopropyl Palmitate, Glycerin, Trehalose, Petrolatum, Retinol, Niacinamide, Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4 Peptide, Panthenol Vitamin B5, Tocopheryl Acetate, Dimethicone, Mineral Oil, Caprylyl Glycol, Dimethiconol, Steareth-21, Steareth-2, Stearic Acid, Palmitic Acid, Stearyl Alcohol, Cetyl Alcohol, Disodium Edta, Acrylates C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Carbomer, Sodium Hydroxide, Decyl Glucoside, Lauryl Glucoside, 1.2-Hexanediol, Phenoxyethanol
## 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/olay/smoothing-daily-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/olay/smoothing-daily-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/olay/smoothing-daily-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/olay/smoothing-daily-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/olay/smoothing-daily-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin (this page)
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/olay/smoothing-daily-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/olay/smoothing-daily-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/olay/smoothing-daily-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/olay/smoothing-daily-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/olay/smoothing-daily-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/olay/smoothing-daily-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/olay/smoothing-daily-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/olay/smoothing-daily-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin