# Paula's Choice CALM Ultra-Gentle Cleanser for dry sensitive skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/paula-s-choice/calm-ultra-gentle-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: [Paula's Choice](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/brands/paula-s-choice)
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.

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

## Why this fit

- Highly suitable for your dry and sensitive skin as Glycerin and Caprylic Capric Triglyceride provide essential hydration and emollience to combat dryness and flakiness. Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate and Cocamidopropyl Betaine effectively cleanse pores without causing irritation, aligning with your skin's needs.
- The formula is designed to be gentle, ensuring it respects your skin's sensitivity while delivering effective cleansing.
- This product is safe for your skin, containing no harsh or prohibited ingredients that could cause irritation.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/paula-s-choice/calm-ultra-gentle-cleanser/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/paula-s-choice/calm-ultra-gentle-cleanser/for/dry-skin): High
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/paula-s-choice/calm-ultra-gentle-cleanser/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/paula-s-choice/calm-ultra-gentle-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin): Low
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/paula-s-choice/calm-ultra-gentle-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/paula-s-choice/calm-ultra-gentle-cleanser/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/paula-s-choice/calm-ultra-gentle-cleanser/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/paula-s-choice/calm-ultra-gentle-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High (this page)
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/paula-s-choice/calm-ultra-gentle-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Glycerin, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Hydroxyacetophenone

## What the research says

- Topical application of an emollient emulsion containing 15.0% caprylic/capric triglyceride doubled the amount of urocanic acid isomers and increased skin hydration with reduced transepidermal water loss in healthy subjects, though it did not prevent ultraviolet-induced urocanic acid isomerization. ([Life, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37109405/))
- 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/))
- 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

A notable portion of reviewers find it too gentle for removing heavy makeup or sunscreen on its own, often requiring a double cleanse, and some dislike the texture of the reformulated version.

- Liked: Extremely gentle (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Calms redness (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Poor makeup removal (often mentioned)
- Liked: Pleasant texture (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Repairs skin barrier (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Odd texture/clumping (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Not for oily skin (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant 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

### What makes the Paula's Choice CALM Ultra-Gentle Cleanser a great fit for dry sensitive skin?

This cleanser is a great fit because glycerin and caprylic capric triglyceride help bring essential moisture to dry and flaky areas, while sodium cocoyl glutamate and cocamidopropyl betaine clean pores safely without causing irritation. The gentle formula respects your skin's sensitivity and contains no harsh or prohibited ingredients that could lead to redness or discomfort.
Sources: [Life, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37109405/)

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

Glycerin and caprylic capric triglyceride are a great fit because they provide essential moisture to combat dryness and flakiness on dry sensitive skin. In addition, sodium cocoyl glutamate and cocamidopropyl betaine effectively cleanse pores without causing irritation.
Sources: [Life, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37109405/)

### What does Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate do for dry sensitive skin?

Sodium cocoyl glutamate helps wash dry sensitive skin gently while leaving it feeling soft and comfortable. This ingredient is well tolerated and is unlikely to cause irritation or dryness because it has a mild interaction with skin oils and proteins.
Sources: [Dermatologic Therapy, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14728695/)

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

Glycerin helps dry sensitive skin by drawing moisture into the skin and keeping it there, making the skin soft and smooth. It is very gentle and unlikely to cause irritation while improving how well the skin holds onto water. This type of skin needs ingredients that boost hydration and repair the barrier without causing stinging.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18510666/)

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

This cleanser is used in both your morning and evening routines. Using a mild cleanser helps improve dryness and keeps skin comfortable without causing irritation.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32239984/)

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

You can use this cleanser before applying retinol, as it washes your skin gently without causing irritation. Using a mild cleanser first helps prep your skin safely while minimizing the dryness that retinol can sometimes cause.

### How often should I use this cleanser?

You can use this cleanser twice a day in your morning and evening routine, as it gently washes your face without causing irritation. Using a mild cleanser every day helps improve visual dryness and keeps sensitive skin calm.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32239984/)

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

This cleanser is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for dry sensitive skin because its mild ingredients cleanse gently without leaving heavy residue or causing irritation. It is formulated to respect delicate skin while effectively washing away dirt.

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

You can safely use this gentle cleanser around the eyes and on the body because its mild ingredients clean effectively without causing irritation on thin or sensitive areas. Studies on its surfactants and moisturizing ingredients show it is well tolerated and helps maintain skin hydration.
Sources: [Life, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37109405/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## 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, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Glycerin, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Laurylglucosides Hydroxypropylsulfonate, Cellulose Gum, Coco-Caprylate Caprate, Hydroxyacetophenone, Inulin, Xanthan Gum, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Phytate, Cellulose, Fructose, Glucose, 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/paula-s-choice/calm-ultra-gentle-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/calm-ultra-gentle-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/paula-s-choice/calm-ultra-gentle-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/calm-ultra-gentle-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/paula-s-choice/calm-ultra-gentle-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin (this page)
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/paula-s-choice/calm-ultra-gentle-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/paula-s-choice/calm-ultra-gentle-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/paula-s-choice/calm-ultra-gentle-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/paula-s-choice/calm-ultra-gentle-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/paula-s-choice/calm-ultra-gentle-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/paula-s-choice/calm-ultra-gentle-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/paula-s-choice/calm-ultra-gentle-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/calm-ultra-gentle-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin