# Mario Badescu Enzyme Cleansing Gel for combination skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for combination skin.**
Combination Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/mario-badescu/enzyme-cleansing-gel/for/combination-skin

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

Brand: [Mario Badescu](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/brands/mario-badescu)
Category: [Cleansers](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/best/cleansers)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with combination skin: an oily T-zone, enlarged pores, and dry cheeks. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for combination skin; other cleansers fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate cleansing for your combination skin, as Carica Papaya Fruit Extract and Grapefruit Fruit Extract provide mild exfoliation to smooth texture and address some oily shine.
- While suitable for combination skin due to enzymatic exfoliation and mild astringent properties, these ingredients are not specialized for significant oil control.
- The product is safe for your combination 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/mario-badescu/enzyme-cleansing-gel/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/mario-badescu/enzyme-cleansing-gel/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/mario-badescu/enzyme-cleansing-gel/for/combination-skin): Average (this page)
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/mario-badescu/enzyme-cleansing-gel/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/mario-badescu/enzyme-cleansing-gel/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/mario-badescu/enzyme-cleansing-gel/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/mario-badescu/enzyme-cleansing-gel/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/mario-badescu/enzyme-cleansing-gel/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Low
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/mario-badescu/enzyme-cleansing-gel/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Carica Papaya Fruit Extract, Grapefruit Fruit Extract, Glycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Triethanolamine

## What the research says

- Topical papain treatment may slightly decrease pain within 30 minutes in humans stung by Chrysaora chinensis compared to placebo. ([Wilderness & Environmental Medicine, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26827260/))
- A fixed combination of hydroxypinacolone retinoate, retinol glycospheres, and papain glycospheres in aqueous gel applied once daily for 12 weeks achieved a 41% mean reduction in GAGS score and a 40.8% mean reduction in total lesions, with 15.3% of patients experiencing mild to moderate local side effects, in 94 evaluable patients with comedonal-papular, mild to moderate acne of the face. ([Giornale Italiano Di Dermatologia E Venereologia, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25876142/))
- Reflux extraction of Carica papaya leaves yielded higher antioxidant capacity and superior in vitro wound-healing activities including fibroblast proliferation, cell migration, and collagen synthesis in human skin fibroblasts compared to ultrasonic-assisted extraction and agitation. ([Molecules, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31991676/))
- Topical application of an aqueous gel containing 0.1% w/w naringenin demonstrated in vitro safety, significantly reduced UV-induced stratum corneum lipid peroxidation, and showed in vivo anti-inflammatory efficacy against methyl nicotinate-induced inflammation in human participants compared to a blank gel and untreated area, while chlorogenic acid, apigenin, and kaempferol displayed pro-oxidant profiles. ([Frontiers in Chemistry, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38831914/))
- Topical application of a naringenin-containing formulation protected hairless mice from ultraviolet B-induced skin damage by inhibiting edema, cytokine production, superoxide anion, and lipid hydroperoxides while maintaining antioxidant enzymes and glutathione levels. ([PloS One, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26741806/))
- Encapsulating naringenin, nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA), and kaempferol into nanostructured lipid carriers provided prolonged release, stability, and antioxidant protection against oxidative stress in human keratinocytes, with an NDGA and kaempferol mixture showing synergistic antioxidant effects. ([Pharmaceutics, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34959324/))
- 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/))
- Topical 2% tea lotion significantly decreased inflammatory lesions and was superior to 5% zinc sulphate solution in patients with acne vulgaris. ([Saudi Medical Journal, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19082228/))
- Topical 2% tea lotion significantly reduced the mean lesion count of papules and pustules in patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris compared to a control solution over 2 months. ([Saudi Medical Journal, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16432600/))

## Why other cleansers fit combination skin better

- A botanical face cleanser with hops and willow bark extract continuously reduced skin sebum levels without reactive seborrhea after treatment in 21 healthy volunteers compared to a sodium laureth sulfate cleanser, with neither cleanser causing skin irritation. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30022595/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this non-foaming gel cleanser is highly recommended for combination and oily skin types, effectively removing excess oil and impurities while maintaining skin hydration. Users frequently report a brighter, refreshed complexion and improved skin texture. However, it may not fully remove heavy makeup and some users dislike the lack of lather or are concerned about parabens.

- Liked: Gentle and non-drying (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Brightening and refreshing (often mentioned)
- Liked: Effective oil control (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Poor makeup removal (often mentioned)
- Liked: Improves skin texture (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Pleasant scent (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Non-foaming texture (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Contains parabens (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Eye irritation (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Price vs. value (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this cleanser AM and PM as part of your daily routine. Start 3×/week and build up to daily use if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply this cleanser as the very first step in your morning routine and right after your pre-cleanser in the evening.
- Gently massage a small amount of cleanser onto your skin using circular motions. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
- For the best results , apply the cleanser directly onto slightly damp skin to help lift away excess oil.
- Avoid the immediate eye area and do a patch test before your first use to check for any sensitivity.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/6a08416bd9315041c09c72f61cf27cc1.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does Mario Badescu Enzyme Cleansing Gel work for combination skin?

This cleanser works moderately well for combination skin, offering mild smoothing and help with oily shine through fruit extracts. However, it lacks specialized oil control. A cleanser for this skin needs high-quality ingredients that balance oil production while maintaining hydration for both oily and dry areas without causing irritation.
Sources: [International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36652986/), [Giornale Italiano Di Dermatologia E Venereologia, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25876142/)

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

Carica Papaya Fruit Extract and Grapefruit Fruit Extract make this cleanser a fit for your combination skin by providing mild exfoliation that helps smooth texture and address oily shine. A cleanser for this skin needs high-quality ingredients that balance oil production and maintain hydration, soothing agents for skin health, and barrier-repairing ingredients that effectively address both oily and dry areas without causing irritation.
Sources: [International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36652986/), [Giornale Italiano Di Dermatologia E Venereologia, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25876142/)

### What does Papaya Fruit Extract do for combination skin?

Papaya fruit extract helps smooth and renew combination skin by gently removing dead skin cells with its natural exfoliating enzymes. It may also help keep pores clear and improve overall texture, though sensitive areas might experience mild irritation.
Sources: [International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36652986/), [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35892222/)

### What does Grapefruit Fruit Extract do for combination skin?

Grapefruit Fruit Extract is unlikely to cause issues for combination skin, helping to refresh and clear the face. This extract brings helpful antioxidants, but combination skin also needs balanced moisture like glycerin to keep dry areas smooth and oily areas calm.

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

This cleanser fits into both your morning and evening routine, coming right after a makeup remover at night. It offers moderate cleansing for your combination skin, but to truly thrive, combination skin needs cleansers with specialized oil-control ingredients.

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

You can use this cleanser with retinol by applying it during your evening routine before your retinol treatment. This cleanser is unlikely to cause irritation on your combination skin, but combining exfoliating ingredients with retinol may sometimes lead to dryness, so you can alternate nights if your skin feels sensitive.
Sources: [Giornale Italiano Di Dermatologia E Venereologia, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25876142/), [International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36652986/)

### How often should I use this cleanser?

You can use this cleanser daily in your morning and evening routines, as it is safe for your skin. However, because its papaya and grapefruit extracts provide mild exfoliation, combination skin that needs better oil control and deeper pore cleansing benefits from pairing it with specialized oil-controlling ingredients and stronger balancing treatments.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32239984/), [Giornale Italiano Di Dermatologia E Venereologia, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25876142/)

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

This cleanser is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for combination skin, as it contains no harsh ingredients and is safe for your skin type. However, because it only offers moderate cleansing without specialized oil control, a combination skin type needs formulas with stronger oil-balancing ingredients and deep-cleansing benefits to prevent clogged pores more effectively.

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

This cleanser is unlikely to irritate your skin, but the thin skin around the eyes and certain areas of the body need gentle cleansers with moisturizing ingredients like glycerin to prevent dryness and maintain comfort.

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

It has no drying alcohol and contains fragrance (parfum, linalool, hexyl cinnamal, benzyl alcohol, limonene, citronellol, and geraniol).

## Alternatives for combination skin

- [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €21.45 at Amazon
- [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Low pH Gel Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-low-ph-gel-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €18.98 at Amazon
- [Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cetaphil/daily-facial-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — High fit — €27.82 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Hydrating Toner: [La Mer The Tonic](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/la-mer/the-tonic/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €115.30 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/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €16.50 at Amazon
- Pre-Cleanser: [Pyunkang Yul Deep Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/pyunkang-yul/deep-cleansing-oil/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €22.67 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.ie: €48.48 (https://www.amazon.ie/dp/B0015ZC13I?tag=lovi-care-web-product02-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Notino: €12.90 (https://www.notino.ie/mario-badescu/enzyme-cleansing-gel-deep-cleansing-gel-for-all-skin-types/p-16091912/)
Prices checked 10 Oct – 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Glycerin, Propylene Glycol, Peg-8 Stearate, Ppg-2 Hydroxyethyl Cocamide, Carica Papaya Fruit Extract, Grapefruit Fruit Extract, Carbomer, Sodium Chloride, Parfum, Phenoxyethanol, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Triethanolamine, Diazolidinyl Urea, Mica, Ci 77891 Titanium Dioxide, Ci 19140 Yellow 5, Ci 42090 Blue 1, Ci 15985, Linalool, Hexyl Cinnamal, Benzyl Alcohol, Limonene, Citronellol, Geraniol
## 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/mario-badescu/enzyme-cleansing-gel/for/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/mario-badescu/enzyme-cleansing-gel/for/combination-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/mario-badescu/enzyme-cleansing-gel/for/combination-skin (this page)
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/mario-badescu/enzyme-cleansing-gel/for/combination-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/mario-badescu/enzyme-cleansing-gel/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/mario-badescu/enzyme-cleansing-gel/for/combination-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/mario-badescu/enzyme-cleansing-gel/for/combination-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/mario-badescu/enzyme-cleansing-gel/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/mario-badescu/enzyme-cleansing-gel/for/combination-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/mario-badescu/enzyme-cleansing-gel/for/combination-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/mario-badescu/enzyme-cleansing-gel/for/combination-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/mario-badescu/enzyme-cleansing-gel/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/mario-badescu/enzyme-cleansing-gel/for/combination-skin