# Dermalogica Precleanse 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/ie/p/dermalogica/precleanse/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 Ireland.

Brand: [Dermalogica](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/brands/dermalogica)
Category: [Makeup removers](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/best/makeup-removers)

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 pre-cleansers fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Highly suitable for your dry skin as Caprylic Capric Triglyceride and Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil provide emollient action to smooth intercellular lipids, while Apricot Kernel Oil offers moderate hydration for dry or flaky skin.
- The formulation effectively dissolves makeup and impurities, making it a great choice for cleansing.
- The product is safe for your dry and sensitive skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Prunus Armeniaca Kernel Oil Apricot Kernel Oil, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil Sunflower Seed Oil, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Oil, Tocopherol

## 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/))
- Limonene protects immortalized human skin keratinocytes against UVB-induced photodamage and photoaging by increasing cell viability, inhibiting intracellular ROS generation, suppressing alpha-MSH secretion, and preventing depletion of tight junction proteins through activation of the Nrf2-dependent antioxidant defense system. ([Environmental Toxicology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36063024/))
- Topical application of Foeniculum vulgare compounds fenchone and limonene increased wound contraction and re-epithelialization in rats compared to untreated and sham control groups over 10 days. ([Biotechnic & Histochemistry, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28426256/))
- Cold pressed terpeneless Valencia orange oil completely inhibited Campylobacter jejuni and reduced cells attached to chicken skin by 1.5 to 2 logarithms compared to control, while showing variable inhibition against Campylobacter coli and Arcobacter spp. ([International Journal of Food Microbiology, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19070381/))
- Topical application of an antioxidant serum containing 15% ascorbic acid, 0.5% ferulic acid, and 1% tocopherol prevented particulate matter-induced degradation of extracellular matrix components, inflammation, and oxidative stress in the skin of 15 female volunteers compared to untreated controls. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40642809/))
- Dermatological products containing d-alpha tocopheryl acetate showed non-comedogenic potential with less than a 50% increase in microcomedones in 12 healthy male subjects compared to octyl palmitate. ([Contemporary Clinical Trials Communications, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34471722/))
- Topical application of an antioxidant mix containing 15% ascorbic acid, 0.5% ferulic acid, and 1% tocopherol prevented PM and UV-induced skin barrier perturbation, lipid peroxidation, inflammatory markers, MMP9 activation, and Type I collagen loss in 15 healthy females compared to untreated exposed skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38590207/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users widely praise this oil cleanser as an effective first step in a double-cleansing routine, noting its ability to melt away waterproof makeup and excess sebum without stripping the skin. It is generally celebrated for leaving skin soft and clean, though some users with sensitive skin or eyes report irritation due to the strong essential oil fragrance.

- Liked: Dissolves makeup (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Leaves skin soft (often mentioned)
- Disliked: High price point (often mentioned)
- Liked: Effective for oily (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Spa-like experience (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Eye irritation (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Packaging issues (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Little goes long (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Caused breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Strong fragrance (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your makeup remover PM as the first step of your evening routine. Start 3×/week daily use if your dry skin tolerates it well.
- Apply this makeup remover before your regular cleanser, toner, and moisturizer. It prepares your face for a thorough double-cleansing routine.
- Gently press a small amount onto your skin using a soft cotton pad. Avoid rubbing to protect your sensitive and flaky skin.
- Apply the makeup remover on completely dry skin to ensure better tolerance and comfort. This prevents any extra irritation for reactive skin types.
- Avoid the sensitive eye area and do a patch test before your very first use to prevent irritation.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c35a78bc839b6c00f5359ad6ae653522.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Dermalogica Precleanse a great fit for dry sensitive skin?

This makeup remover is a great fit because it helps smooth dry skin with sunflower seed oil and caprylic capric triglyceride, while apricot kernel oil brings gentle moisture. It is safe and unlikely to cause irritation, effectively melting away makeup without any harsh ingredients.
Sources: [Life, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37109405/)

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

Caprylic Capric Triglyceride and sunflower seed oil make this cleanser a great fit by smoothing the skin to keep it soft, while apricot kernel oil helps hydrate dry or flaky areas. This blend maintains skin integrity without causing irritation.
Sources: [Life, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37109405/)

### What does Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride do for dry sensitive skin?

Caprylic/capric triglyceride helps keep dry sensitive skin hydrated and soft by sealing in moisture and reducing water loss. It is very well tolerated by sensitive skin, making it unlikely to cause irritation while supporting a healthy skin barrier.
Sources: [Life, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37109405/), [Skin Research and Technology, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24256135/)

### What does Apricot Kernel Oil do for dry sensitive skin?

Apricot kernel oil helps nourish dry sensitive skin by moisturizing dry areas and calming irritation. Plant oils like this help repair the skin barrier and protect against everyday discomfort while feeling soft and smooth.
Sources: [International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29280987/)

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

This makeup remover goes in the evening routine before your cleanser, and as part of your weekly routine. It is a great fit because ingredients like sunflower seed oil and caprylic capric triglyceride help smooth dry skin while effectively melting away makeup.
Sources: [Life, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37109405/)

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

You can use this makeup remover in your evening routine before cleansing and applying a treatment like retinol. It is safe for your dry and sensitive skin because it lacks harsh ingredients, helping to dissolve impurities without causing irritation.

### How often should I use this cleanser?

Use this makeup remover in your evening routine and weekly routine to dissolve makeup and impurities without irritation. It is a great fit for your dry sensitive skin because it helps smooth intercellular lipids and offers moderate hydration.
Sources: [Life, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37109405/)

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

This cleanser is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts on dry sensitive skin, as its nourishing oils and smoothing ingredients help lift away makeup and impurities without disturbing the skin barrier. It has a great safety profile for this skin type and carries no significant risk of irritation.
Sources: [Life, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37109405/)

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

It has no drying alcohol and contains fragrance (citral, limonene, and linalool).

## Alternatives for dry sensitive skin

- [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €16.25 at Amazon
- [Pyunkang Yul Deep Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/pyunkang-yul/deep-cleansing-oil/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €22.67 at Amazon
- [Pyunkang Yul Deep Clear Cleansing Balm](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/pyunkang-yul/deep-clear-cleansing-balm/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €16.53 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €14.68 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Pixi Milky Tonic](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/pixi/milky-tonic/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €27.17 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [Dr.G Green Mild Up Sun+](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/dr-g/green-mild-up-sun/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €23.00 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.ie: €56.00 (https://www.amazon.ie/dp/B000X1LOJM?tag=lovi-care-web-product02-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Lookfantastic: €56.35 (https://www.lookfantastic.ie/p/dermalogica-precleanse-150ml/10363055/)
- Notino: €64.50 (https://www.notino.ie/dermalogica/daily-skin-health-cleansing-oil-for-eyes-lips-and-skin/p-488477/)
Prices checked 10 Oct – 4 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Prunus Armeniaca Kernel Oil Apricot Kernel Oil, Peg-40 Sorbitan Peroleate, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil Sunflower Seed Oil, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Oil, Grapefruit Peel Oil, Cymbopogon Schoenanthus Oil, Borago Officinalis Seed Oil, Lavandula Angustifolia Oil Lavender Oil, Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract Rosemary Leaf Extract, Solanum Lycopersicum Extract Tomato Extract, Lavandula Hybrida Oil, Citrus Nobilis Peel Oil Mandarin Orange Peel Oil, Rice Bran Oil, Carthamus Tinctorius Seed Oil, Aleurites Moluccana Seed Oil, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Tocopherol, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Citral, Limonene, Linalool
## 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/dermalogica/precleanse/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/dermalogica/precleanse/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/dermalogica/precleanse/for/dry-sensitive-skin (this page)
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/dermalogica/precleanse/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/dermalogica/precleanse/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/dermalogica/precleanse/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/dermalogica/precleanse/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/dermalogica/precleanse/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/dermalogica/precleanse/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/dermalogica/precleanse/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/dermalogica/precleanse/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/dermalogica/precleanse/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/dermalogica/precleanse/for/dry-sensitive-skin