# Neutrogena Clear Pore Cleanser/Mask for dry skin

**Lovi Fit: Caution fit for dry skin.**
Dry Skin Fit: Caution · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: Risky.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/neutrogena/clear-pore-cleanser-mask/for/dry-skin

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

Brand: [Neutrogena](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/brands/neutrogena)
Category: [Face masks](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/best/face-masks)

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 cleansing masks alongside fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate exfoliation for your dry or flaky skin due to the presence of benzoyl peroxide, which can be drying, and lacks sufficient emollient ingredients like glycerin to counteract this effect.
- The kaolin and bentonite in the formula provide moderate cleansing by absorbing excess oil, which is not ideal for your dry skin type.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/neutrogena/clear-pore-cleanser-mask/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/neutrogena/clear-pore-cleanser-mask/for/dry-skin): Caution (this page)
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/neutrogena/clear-pore-cleanser-mask/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/neutrogena/clear-pore-cleanser-mask/for/sensitive-skin): Caution
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/neutrogena/clear-pore-cleanser-mask/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/neutrogena/clear-pore-cleanser-mask/for/dark-spots): Caution
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/neutrogena/clear-pore-cleanser-mask/for/mature-skin): Caution
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/neutrogena/clear-pore-cleanser-mask/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Caution
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/neutrogena/clear-pore-cleanser-mask/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Benzoyl Peroxide, Glycerin, Kaolin, Bentonite, Menthol

## What the research says

- 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/))
- Topical benzoyl peroxide may improve acne more effectively than placebo or no treatment, while showing little to no difference compared with adapalene or clindamycin, but with an increased risk of treatment discontinuation due to adverse effects compared to placebo. ([The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32175593/))
- Once-daily fixed-dose clindamycin phosphate 1.2%/benzoyl peroxide 3.1%/adapalene 0.15% gel achieved superior treatment success (52.5%) and greater reductions in inflammatory and noninflammatory lesions compared to vehicle (8.1%) and dyad component gels in participants with moderate-to-severe acne over 12 weeks. ([American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34674160/))
- 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/))
- Vectorization of high molecular weight hyaluronic acid with clay enabled its penetration into deeper skin layers and led to a significant clinical reduction in fine lines in the crow's feet area compared to placebo after 28 days. ([Skin Research and Technology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38591218/))
- 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/))
- Quaternized carboxymethyl chitosan/organic montmorillonite nanocomposite demonstrated superior moisture-adsorption and retention compared to hyaluronic acid, good UV-protection ability, negligible dermal irritation, and prominent moisture-retention efficacy on human stratum corneum when formulated into a cosmetic cream. ([Carbohydrate Polymers, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28732847/))
- A novel water-in-oil emulsion with a lecithin-modified bentonite prevented epidermal degradation and inflammatory protein secretion induced by urban dust and cedar pollen more effectively than a conventional water-in-oil emulsion in a reconstructed human epidermis model. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31995229/))
- Bentonite nanoparticles and honey co-administration improved skin wound healing in BALB/c mice by reducing inflammatory cell infiltration and increasing fibroblastosis, new epithelium thickness, granulation area, and collagen density compared to the untreated control group. ([The International Journal of Lower Extremity Wounds, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35950795/))
- Coadministration of 40% topical L-menthol with 10% trans-cinnamaldehyde reduced spontaneous pain intensity, neurogenic inflammation, primary and secondary mechanical hyperalgesia, and heat hyperalgesia, but not cold hyperalgesia, in 14 healthy volunteers. ([The Journal of Pain, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27260636/))
- Topical application of menthol-based cooling gel decreased intramuscular temperature by 1.9 °C and increased cutaneous blood flow by 0.3 ml/min in healthy males compared to placebo gel. ([International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30038834/))
- Cooling skin temperature or applying topical menthol reduced histamine-induced itch intensity and flare diameters in healthy male volunteers. ([Neuroscience Letters, 1995](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7624016/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users find this product to be a highly effective 2-in-1 cleanser and mask for acne and oil control. It is frequently praised for deep cleaning and reducing pore appearance. However, a moderate number of users report that it can cause dryness and irritation, particularly for sensitive skin, and it is also noted to bleach fabrics.

- Liked: Clears acne (often mentioned)
- Liked: Versatile 2-in-1 (often mentioned)
- Liked: Cooling sensation (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Deep clean pores (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Bleaches fabrics (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Drying and irritation (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Burning sensation (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Strong scent (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this cleansing mask PM as part of your weekly routine, starting 1x/week and increasing slowly if needed. Always follow with a rich moisturizer to prevent dryness.
- Apply the cleansing mask after using your cleanser and enzyme powder, but before your hydrating toner and moisturizer. This ensures the mask works effectively on your dry skin.
- Smooth an even layer of the cleansing mask over your face while avoiding any rubbing. Let it sit for the recommended time before gently rinsing it off.
- Apply the cleansing mask to clean, dry skin for the best comfort. Since your skin is dry, this method helps prevent any potential irritation.
- Avoid the sensitive eye area during application. Do a patch test before your first use to ensure your skin tolerates the product well.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/6089f210022bdd96805c3bf12c9a44a3.mp4

## Questions and answers

### Why does Lovi advise caution with Neutrogena Clear Pore for dry skin?

Lovi advises caution because the benzoyl peroxide and clays may dry out dry skin, and the formula lacks enough softening ingredients to balance this effect. A cleansing mask for dry skin needs ceramides, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and prebiotic thermal water to keep the skin hydrated and protect its natural moisture barrier.

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

The benzoyl peroxide, kaolin, and bentonite make this cleanser a poor fit because they dry out and absorb oil from dry skin, and the formula lacks enough moisturizing ingredients like glycerin to balance that out. A product of this type needs essential ceramides, sodium hyaluronate, niacinamide, and other hydrating and barrier-repairing ingredients to maintain moisture and protect dry skin.

### What does Benzoyl Peroxide do for dry skin?

Benzoyl peroxide is usually a poor fit for dry skin because it tends to cause bothersome dryness, peeling, and irritation. When treating dry skin with acne, a product of this type needs soothing ingredients like ceramides and gentle, hydrating cleansers to protect the skin barrier.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37276158/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21637901/)

### What does Glycerin do for dry skin?

Glycerin helps dry skin by drawing in moisture and keeping it locked in, which makes the skin feel much softer and smoother. It also supports your natural skin barrier to stop water from escaping easily. A product for dry skin needs extra ingredients like hyaluronic acid and soothing plant extracts to truly calm and hydrate dry patches.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18510666/)

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

This cleanser is a poor match for your dry skin because it can dry you out and lacks enough softening ingredients to counteract that effect. A dry skin routine needs a gentle cleanser and a rich moisturizer that keeps your skin soft and smooth.

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

Using this cleansing mask with retinol is not recommended for your dry skin, because the benzoyl peroxide and clays can make dryness and irritation much worse. If you do choose to use them together, you need a gentle routine with extra rich moisturizers containing ceramides to help protect your skin barrier.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37276158/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22648223/)

### How often should I use this cleanser?

This product is a poor match for your dry skin because it can dry you out further and absorbs excess oil you do not need to lose. Dry skin needs gentle, hydrating cleansers and rich softening ingredients like glycerin to keep it comfortable.

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

This cleansing mask is unlikely to clog pores since it contains clay to absorb oil, but it can dry out your dry skin and cause irritation due to benzoyl peroxide. To care for dry skin, products of this type need gentle cleansers with plenty of softening and hydrating ingredients to prevent tightness and flaking.

### 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/ie/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €14.68 at Amazon
- [Torriden DIVE IN Cleansing Foam](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/torriden/dive-in-cleansing-foam/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €19.64 at Amazon
- [ETUDE Soonjung pH 6.5 Whip Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/etude/soonjung-ph-6-5-whip-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €18.75 at Amazon

## Routine for dry skin

### AM

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €14.68 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [COSRX Propolis Synergy Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cosrx/propolis-synergy-toner/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €14.28 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Lift and Firm Night Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/elizabeth-arden/advanced-ceramide-lift-and-firm-night-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €50.82 at Amazon
- SPF: [Thinkbaby Safe Sunscreen SPF 50+](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/thinkbaby/safe-sunscreen-spf-50/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €32.81 at Amazon

### PM

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €16.25 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €14.68 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €14.94 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Lift and Firm Night Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/elizabeth-arden/advanced-ceramide-lift-and-firm-night-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €50.82 at Amazon

### Weekly

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €16.25 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €14.68 at Amazon
- Nourishing Mask: [Mediheal Watermide Essential Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/mediheal/watermide-essential-mask/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €28.40 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €14.94 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Lift and Firm Night Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/elizabeth-arden/advanced-ceramide-lift-and-firm-night-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €50.82 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.ie: €10.46 (https://www.amazon.ie/dp/B0DQLGTLP8?tag=lovi-care-web-product02-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Benzoyl Peroxide, Water, Glycerin, Kaolin, Bentonite, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Titanium Dioxide, Citric Acid, Xanthan Gum, Benzyl Alcohol, Sodium Citrate, Sodium Hydroxide, Disodium Edta, Menthol
## 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/neutrogena/clear-pore-cleanser-mask/for/dry-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/neutrogena/clear-pore-cleanser-mask/for/dry-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/neutrogena/clear-pore-cleanser-mask/for/dry-skin (this page)
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/neutrogena/clear-pore-cleanser-mask/for/dry-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/neutrogena/clear-pore-cleanser-mask/for/dry-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/neutrogena/clear-pore-cleanser-mask/for/dry-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/neutrogena/clear-pore-cleanser-mask/for/dry-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/neutrogena/clear-pore-cleanser-mask/for/dry-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/neutrogena/clear-pore-cleanser-mask/for/dry-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/neutrogena/clear-pore-cleanser-mask/for/dry-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/neutrogena/clear-pore-cleanser-mask/for/dry-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/neutrogena/clear-pore-cleanser-mask/for/dry-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/neutrogena/clear-pore-cleanser-mask/for/dry-skin