# The INKEY List Salicylic Acid Cleanser for dry skin

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

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

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

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

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

A poor match for dry skin; the cleansers alongside fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate exfoliation for your dry or flaky skin due to salicylic acid, which provides mild chemical exfoliation, though it can be drying and lead to irritation for dry skin.
- While glycerin and betaine are included for some hydration, the salicylic acid and zinc PCA may not fully counteract the potential dryness for your dry skin type.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/dry-skin): Caution (this page)
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Caution
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/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

- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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 this cleanser AM and PM every day to keep your skin clean. Start using it daily right away since your skin is not sensitive.
- Apply this cleanser as the very first step in your morning routine and right after your pre-cleanser in the evening. Follow with your toner and moisturizer afterwards.
- Gently massage a small amount of cleanser onto your face using soft circular motions. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and pat dry with a clean towel.
- Apply this cleanser on slightly damp skin for a comfortable and refreshing wash. This helps maintain your skin's natural moisture while cleansing away dirt.
- Avoid getting the cleanser directly into your eyes to prevent any irritation. Do a simple patch test before your first use to ensure your skin likes it.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/6a08416bd9315041c09c72f61cf27cc1.mp4

## Questions and answers

### Why does Lovi advise caution with The INKEY List Salicylic Acid Cleanser for dry skin?

Lovi advises caution because the salicylic acid in this cleanser can be drying and may lead to irritation for your dry skin type. Although it contains glycerin and betaine for some hydration, these ingredients may not fully counteract the potential dryness. A cleanser for dry skin needs ceramides, sodium hyaluronate, niacinamide, or hyaluronic acid to provide deep hydration and barrier support without stripping moisture.

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

Salicylic acid and zinc PCA make this cleanser a poor fit because they may dry out dry skin and lead to irritation. A cleanser for dry skin needs hydrating and barrier-repairing ingredients like ceramides and sodium hyaluronate to maintain moisture and protect the skin.

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

Salicylic acid is generally not a good fit for dry skin, as it is meant to clear out pores and remove dead skin rather than hydrate. Because dry skin needs soothing and moisture rather than exfoliation, a product for dry skin needs nourishing ingredients like urea to lock in moisture and keep the skin soft.

### What does Zinc PCA do for dry skin?

Zinc PCA helps oily skin by keeping oil levels balanced, but it is not typically used for dry skin. Dry skin needs ingredients that add moisture and soothe dryness, rather than ingredients meant to control oil.

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

This cleanser goes as the second step in your evening routine, after makeup removal and before a treatment and moisturizer, or as the first step in the morning. Because salicylic acid can be drying on dry skin, a cleanser of this type needs extra soothing and hydrating ingredients like glycerin and ceramides to keep skin soft and comfortable.

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

Using this cleanser with retinol requires caution on dry skin because the salicylic acid may cause extra dryness and irritation. If you choose to use both, apply the cleanser first, rinse thoroughly, and make sure to follow up with a rich moisturizer to keep your skin soft and comfortable.

### How often should I use this cleanser?

This cleanser may be too drying for your dry skin, so use it just once a week to start. If your skin handles it well without irritation, you can carefully use it more often. To keep dry skin comfortable, a cleanser of this type needs soothing ingredients like allantoin and extra moisture from glycerin.

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

This cleanser is unlikely to cause breakouts or purging for dry skin, though the salicylic acid may leave skin feeling dry and irritated. A cleanser for dry skin needs gentle, hydrating ingredients and nourishing oils to keep skin soft and comfortable without stripping its natural moisture.

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

This cleanser is not ideal for the thin skin around your eyes or on your body because salicylic acid may dry out and irritate these areas. A product for dry skin needs gentle cleansers paired with rich hydrators and soothing ingredients to keep the skin comfortable.
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 dry skin

- [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-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-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-skin) — Superior fit — €20.99 at Amazon

## Routine for dry skin

### AM

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €7.50 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [COSRX Propolis Synergy Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cosrx/propolis-synergy-toner/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €18.55 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Lift and Firm Night Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/elizabeth-arden/advanced-ceramide-lift-and-firm-night-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €76.29 at Amazon
- SPF: [Purito Daily Soft Touch Sunscreen](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/purito/daily-soft-touch-sunscreen/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €12.98 at Amazon

### PM

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €16.10 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €7.50 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/peach-and-lily/glass-skin-refining-serum/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €86.15 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Lift and Firm Night Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/elizabeth-arden/advanced-ceramide-lift-and-firm-night-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €76.29 at Amazon

### Weekly

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €16.10 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €7.50 at Amazon
- Nourishing Mask: [Anua Heartleaf 77% Soothing Sheet Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/anua/heartleaf-77-soothing-sheet-mask/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €19.90 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/peach-and-lily/glass-skin-refining-serum/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €86.15 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Lift and Firm Night Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/elizabeth-arden/advanced-ceramide-lift-and-firm-night-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €76.29 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Notino: €6.50 (https://www.notino.fr/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser-gel-nettoyant-visage-a-lacide-salicylique/p-16359301/)
Prices checked 16 Oct 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/dry-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/dry-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/dry-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/dry-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/dry-skin (this page)
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/dry-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/dry-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/dry-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/dry-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/dry-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/dry-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/dry-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-inkey-list/salicylic-acid-cleanser/for/dry-skin