# SkinMedica AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser for dry sensitive skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/skinmedica/aha-bha-exfoliating-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: [SkinMedica](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/brands/skinmedica)
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 exfoliation for your dry and flaky skin, as salicylic acid and citric acid provide cleansing benefits to smooth texture.
- Glycerin is included for humectant action, but the exfoliating acids may still cause some dryness for your dry skin.
- The formula is safe for your dry and sensitive skin, as it lacks prohibited or harsh ingredients that could cause irritation.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/skinmedica/aha-bha-exfoliating-cleanser/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/skinmedica/aha-bha-exfoliating-cleanser/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/skinmedica/aha-bha-exfoliating-cleanser/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/skinmedica/aha-bha-exfoliating-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/skinmedica/aha-bha-exfoliating-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/skinmedica/aha-bha-exfoliating-cleanser/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/skinmedica/aha-bha-exfoliating-cleanser/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/skinmedica/aha-bha-exfoliating-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average (this page)
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/skinmedica/aha-bha-exfoliating-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Superior

## Key ingredients

Aha Alpha Hydroxy Acid, Bha Beta Hydroxy Acid, Salicylic Acid, Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract Licorice Root Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Fruit Extract

## What the research says

- 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/))
- 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/))
- Combining 755 nm alexandrite laser with topical licorice gel significantly reduces terminal hair counts compared to alexandrite laser with placebo in women with idiopathic hirsutism. ([Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26273313/))
- Licochalcone A activated Nrf2 signaling, elevated cytoprotective enzymes, increased the reduced-to-oxidized glutathione ratio, and decreased reactive oxygen species in human fibroblasts and neutrophils, while a LicA-rich licorice extract lowered UVA-induced oxidative processes in vivo. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25381913/))
- Bioactive glycyrrhizic acid and oxymatrine ionic liquid self-assembled nanomicelles significantly promoted the transdermal permeation, subcutaneous retention, and anti-photoaging efficacy of palmitoyl pentapeptide-4 in cellular and animal models compared to unformulated peptide. ([Advanced Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39783908/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users consistently praise this dual-action cleanser for its ability to smooth rough texture and brighten dull complexions using a blend of chemical acids and physical jojoba beads. While highly effective for clearing acne and refining pores, it is frequently described as surprisingly gentle and non-drying for daily use, though the high price point is a common point of contention.

- Liked: Gentle exfoliation (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Improves skin texture (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Enhances radiance (often mentioned)
- Liked: Clears acne (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: High price point (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Initial purging (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Potential dryness (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Sun sensitivity (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 SkinMedica AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser work for dry sensitive skin?

This cleanser works moderately well for dry and flaky skin by smoothing texture, though the exfoliating acids may still cause some dryness. A product of this type needs rich hydrating and barrier-repairing ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid to maintain moisture and protect dry sensitive skin.

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

Salicylic acid and citric acid help smooth texture by lifting away dry flakes, while glycerin helps keep skin hydrated. For a better fit, a cleanser for dry sensitive skin needs deep hydrating and moisture-restoring ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What does Alpha Hydroxy Acid do for dry sensitive skin?

Alpha Hydroxy Acid helps dry sensitive skin by improving skin hydration and smoothing out fine lines and wrinkles. Choosing a gentle formulation like lactic acid may also reduce irritation complaints while making your skin feel soft and smooth.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 1996](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19245467/), [Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 1996](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8784274/)

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

Salicylic acid is generally too harsh for dry, sensitive skin because it can easily irritate already fragile or damaged skin barriers. A product of this type needs soothing ingredients, gentle hydrators, and barrier-repairing components to keep dry skin calm and comfortable.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 1999](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10233334/), [International Journal of Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21699529/)

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

This cleanser goes in the morning and evening routine for dry and sensitive skin, though the exfoliating acids may still cause some dryness. A product of this type needs soothing ingredients and extra moisture to keep dry skin soft and smooth.

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

You can use this cleanser in your routine, but apply your retinol at a different time of day or on alternating days to prevent excess dryness. Because this cleanser contains exfoliating acids, using it alongside retinol at the same time may make your sensitive skin too dry.

### How often should I use this cleanser?

You can use this cleanser once a day or a few times a week to help smooth your dry and flaky skin texture, though the exfoliating acids may still cause some dryness. This type of skin needs gentle cleansers paired with rich hydrators and barrier-supporting ingredients to maintain comfort and prevent moisture loss.

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

This cleanser is unlikely to cause breakouts, but the exfoliating acids may lead to minor initial purging or dryness for dry and sensitive skin. A cleanser for this skin needs gentle hydrators like glycerin and soothing ingredients to keep the skin calm and smooth while it cleans.

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

This cleanser may be too strong for the very thin skin around the eyes and is generally meant for larger areas like the body. To care for dry sensitive skin on the body, a cleanser of this type needs extra soothing oils and gentle hydrators to prevent tightness and dryness.

### 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 C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Peg Ppg-8 3 Diisostearate, Hydrogenated Jojoba Oil, Acrylates Copolymer, Vaccinium Myrtillus Leaf Extract Fruit, Saccharum Officinarum Extract, Sugar Maple Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Fruit Extract, Lemon Fruit Extract, Salicylic Acid, Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract Licorice Root Extract, Panthenol, Bisabolol, Citric Acid, Glycerin, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Hydroxide, Disodium Edta, Potassium Sorbate, Phenoxyethanol, Lavandula Angustifolia Oil Lavender Oil, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Peel Oil, Mica, Tin Oxide, Titanium Dioxide Ci 77891
## 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/skinmedica/aha-bha-exfoliating-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/skinmedica/aha-bha-exfoliating-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/skinmedica/aha-bha-exfoliating-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/skinmedica/aha-bha-exfoliating-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/skinmedica/aha-bha-exfoliating-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin (this page)
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/skinmedica/aha-bha-exfoliating-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/skinmedica/aha-bha-exfoliating-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/skinmedica/aha-bha-exfoliating-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skinmedica/aha-bha-exfoliating-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/skinmedica/aha-bha-exfoliating-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/skinmedica/aha-bha-exfoliating-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/skinmedica/aha-bha-exfoliating-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/skinmedica/aha-bha-exfoliating-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin