# CeraVe Blemish Control Cleanser for oily skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cerave/blemish-control-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 Ireland.

Brand: [CeraVe](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/brands/cerave)
Category: [Cleansers](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/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.

One of the best cleansers for oily skin.

## Why this fit

- Excellent suitability for your oily skin and acne-prone skin is achieved through the synergistic action of salicylic acid and niacinamide, which effectively regulate oil production and target blemishes. The inclusion of ceramides and hyaluronic acid further supports your skin barrier and hydration levels, ensuring a balanced complexion.
- Gluconolactone and calcium gluconate contribute to gentle exfoliation and pore decongestion, complementing the primary actives for enhanced clarity and smoothness.
- The formulation is exceptionally safe for your skin, free from harsh ingredients and containing beneficial components like niacinamide and ceramides that actively soothe and protect.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cerave/blemish-control-cleanser/for/oily-skin): Superior (this page)
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cerave/blemish-control-cleanser/for/dry-skin): Low
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cerave/blemish-control-cleanser/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cerave/blemish-control-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cerave/blemish-control-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin): Superior
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cerave/blemish-control-cleanser/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cerave/blemish-control-cleanser/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cerave/blemish-control-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Low
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cerave/blemish-control-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Superior

## Key ingredients

Salicylic Acid, Niacinamide, Ceramides, Gluconolactone, Hectorite Clay

## What the research says

- 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/))
- 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/))
- Gluconolactone 14% solution significantly improved mild to moderate acne by reducing inflamed and non-inflamed lesions similarly to 5% benzoyl peroxide, but with fewer side-effects in 150 patients. ([The Australasian Journal of Dermatology, 1992](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1303072/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- Glycolic acid, salicylic acid, gluconolactone, and licochalcone A combined with 0.1% adapalene showed no hindrance compared to adapalene monotherapy and provided benefits in reducing complications in 25 subjects with mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30858720/))
- Gluconolactone and tartaric acid significantly lower transepidermal water loss and erythema after sodium lauryl sulphate challenge compared to vehicle, untreated control, and glycolic acid in healthy subjects. ([The British Journal of Dermatology, 1997](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9470910/))
- A polyhydroxy acid skin care regimen provided antiaging benefits comparable to an alpha-hydroxyacid regimen while demonstrating enhanced mildness and better tolerance in subjects. ([Cutis, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15002657/))
- Twice-weekly use of a clay mask over 4 weeks in 75 adults with oily or combination skin improved acne-related outcomes, sebum content, skin evenness, hydration, and reduced dryness and irritation. ([Skin Research and Technology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38009030/))
- Clay jojoba oil facial masks reduced total skin lesions by a mean of 54% after 6 weeks in 133 participants with acne-prone, lesioned skin and mild acne compared to baseline. ([Forschende Komplementarmedizin, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22585103/))
- Laponite/mafenide hydrogels and films successfully released active mafenide with antibacterial effects against three tested bacterial species while reducing mafenide cytotoxicity on fibroblast cells. ([Journal of Materials Science. Materials in Medicine, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25027303/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users with oily and blemish-prone skin frequently report that this cleanser effectively reduces active breakouts and smooths rough texture without compromising the skin barrier. While many find it gentle enough for daily use, a notable minority experience initial "purging" or dryness, suggesting it may require a gradual introduction for sensitive skin types.

- Liked: Clears acne (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Smooths texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Controls oil (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Gentle and non-stripping (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Drying and tightness (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Key ingredients (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Ineffective for blackheads (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Packaging issues (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Purging phase (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Reaction/sensitivity (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 CeraVe Blemish Control Cleanser one of the best fits for oily skin?

CeraVe Blemish Control Cleanser is one of the best fits for oily skin because salicylic acid and niacinamide work together to regulate oil and target blemishes, while ceramides and hyaluronic acid keep your skin balanced and hydrated. Gentle exfoliators like gluconolactone also help clear out pores for a smoother look, backed by a very safe formula that soothes your skin without harsh ingredients.
Sources: [The Australasian Journal of Dermatology, 1992](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1303072/), [BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/)

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

Salicylic acid and niacinamide make this cleanser a great fit by helping control extra oil and targeting breakouts. Ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and gluconolactone also support your skin barrier and gently clear pores for a smooth complexion.
Sources: [BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/), [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 Niacinamide do for oily skin?

Niacinamide helps balance oily skin by significantly reducing excess oil production and shine. It is well tolerated and may improve skin texture without clogging pores.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16766489/), [Antioxidants, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34439563/)

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

This cleanser goes as the first step in your morning routine and follows your makeup remover in the evening. It helps control oil and clear pores while keeping your skin calm and balanced.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31461548/), [BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/)

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

You can use this cleanser with retinol, applying the cleanser first to clean your skin before putting on your retinol treatment. Using a cleanser with ceramides helps protect your skin barrier and may reduce the dryness and irritation that often come with using retinol.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37276158/), [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17121065/)

### How often should I use this cleanser?

You can use this cleanser twice a day as part of your morning and evening routine. It is gentle enough for daily use while helping to clear pores and keep oil under control.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31461548/), [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 because salicylic acid and gluconolactone help clear out pores and smooth your skin. While a low chance of purging may happen when you start using it, the formula is generally very safe for oily skin.
Sources: [The Australasian Journal of Dermatology, 1992](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1303072/), [BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/)

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

This cleanser is safe for use on the body, but it is generally best to avoid the very thin skin directly around the eyes. Salicylic acid and clay effectively manage oily skin on the body, though delicate areas require gentleness.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/), [BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for oily skin

- [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €21.45 at Amazon
- [Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cetaphil/daily-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €27.82 at Amazon
- [Etude Soon Jung pH 6.5 Whip Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/etude/soon-jung-ph-6-5-whip-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — High fit — €18.33 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €19.99 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €16.50 at Amazon
- SPF: [CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cerave/am-facial-moisturizing-lotion-spf-30/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €15.64 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Lookfantastic: €12.51 (https://www.lookfantastic.ie/p/cerave-blemish-control-face-cleanser-with-2-salicylic-acid-niacinamide-for-blemish-prone-skin-236ml/12932543/)
- Notino: €13.80 (https://www.notino.ie/cerave/cleansers-cleansing-gel-against-imperfections-acne-prone-skin/p-16139497/)
Prices checked 10 Oct – 17 Oct 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Salicylic Acid, Gluconolactone, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Peg-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate, Ceramide Np, Ceramide Ap, Ceramide Eop, Carbomer, Calcium Gluconate, Triethyl Citrate, Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Cholesterol, Tetrasodium Edta, Caprylyl Glycol, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Xanthan Gum, Hectorite, Phytosphingosine, Benzoic Acid
## 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/cerave/blemish-control-cleanser/for/oily-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/blemish-control-cleanser/for/oily-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cerave/blemish-control-cleanser/for/oily-skin (this page)
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cerave/blemish-control-cleanser/for/oily-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cerave/blemish-control-cleanser/for/oily-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/cerave/blemish-control-cleanser/for/oily-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/cerave/blemish-control-cleanser/for/oily-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/cerave/blemish-control-cleanser/for/oily-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/blemish-control-cleanser/for/oily-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/cerave/blemish-control-cleanser/for/oily-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/cerave/blemish-control-cleanser/for/oily-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/cerave/blemish-control-cleanser/for/oily-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cerave/blemish-control-cleanser/for/oily-skin