# Paula's Choice Pore Normalizing Cleanser for oily skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/paula-s-choice/pore-normalizing-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: [Paula's Choice](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/brands/paula-s-choice)
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.

Works for oily skin; other cleansers fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate cleansing for your oily skin, as sodium laureth sulfate and sodium lauroyl sarcosinate effectively remove impurities, while glycerin and panthenol provide basic hydration without specialized oil control.
- Allantoin and chamomile extract offer soothing benefits, contributing to a comfortable cleansing experience.
- The product is safe for your oily skin, with no harsh ingredients and the inclusion of soothing agents like allantoin and panthenol.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Glycerin, Allantoin, Panthenol

## What the research says

- Topical dexpanthenol acts as a moisturizer, improves stratum corneum hydration, accelerates wound healing and epidermal regeneration, reduces erythema, and improves symptoms of skin irritation compared to vehicle or no pretreatment. ([American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/))
- A new topical panthenol-containing emollient significantly improved transepidermal water loss reduction, stratum corneum hydration, and intercellular lipid lamellae length compared with control in healthy subjects without negatively impacting bacterial viability. ([The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/))
- 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/))
- A panthenol-enriched mask significantly decreased erythema and hyperpigmentation, increased sebum and stratum corneum moisture, and reduced transepidermal water loss compared to a saline dressing in 60 subjects undergoing facial laser treatment. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40613435/))
- Sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) treatment decreases lipid membrane chain conformational order and stiffness leading to increased water sorption and diffusivity, whereas sodium lauryl ether sulfate (SLES) treatment increases lipid membrane conformational order and stiffness with increased water sorption capacity driven by its hygroscopic nature. ([Langmuir, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24359219/))
- 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/))
- 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 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/))
- 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/))
- Prophylactic application of a topical scar gel containing Allium cepae extract, allantoin, and heparin significantly improves patient-assessed scar color, stiffness, and irregularity compared to no treatment in women following a cesarean section. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24509969/))
- Moisturizer containing 5% panthenol, madecassoside, and copper-zinc-manganese decreased adverse reactions and downtime after ablative fractional carbon dioxide laser resurfacing with comparable efficacy to 0.02% triamcinolone acetonide cream in 20 subjects. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30945430/))
- Topical dexpanthenol formulated in lipophilic vehicles improved stratum corneum hydration and reduced transepidermal water loss compared to vehicle control in humans. ([Arzneimittel-Forschung, 2000](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10965426/))
- Hyaluronic acid, hyaluronic acid plus dexpanthenol, and isotonic saline nasal sprays all significantly improved dry nose symptoms over four weeks in 240 patients, with hyaluronic acid plus dexpanthenol providing superior nasal moisturisation compared to the other two. ([Auris, Nasus, Larynx, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32067777/))

## Why other cleansers fit oily 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/))
- Topical application of Lactobacillus plantarum-GMNL6 enhanced collagen synthesis and SPTSSA gene expression while reducing melanin synthesis, Staphylococcus aureus biofilm, and Cutibacterium acnes proliferation, leading to clinical improvements in skin moisture, color, spots, wrinkles, UV spots, and porphyrins in human volunteers. ([International Journal of Medical Sciences, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33526970/))

## What reviewers say

Users with oily and acne-prone skin frequently praise this gel cleanser for effectively clearing breakouts and controlling sebum without stripping the moisture barrier. While most find it gentle and refreshing, a minority of users with combination or sensitive skin experienced dryness, tightness, or purging after use.

- Liked: Effective acne control (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle & non-stripping (often mentioned)
- Liked: Oil balancing (often mentioned)
- Liked: Makeup removal (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Pleasant texture (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Drying for some (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Breakouts/Purging (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Packaging issues (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Skin irritation (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant scent (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

### How well does Paula's Choice Pore Normalizing Cleanser work for oily skin?

Paula's Choice Pore Normalizing Cleanser works for your oily skin by providing moderate cleansing and basic hydration without special oil control. A cleanser for oily skin needs ingredients like niacinamide, ceramides, or salicylic acid to better manage shine and support skin health.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/), [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/)

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

Glycerin and panthenol help wash away impurities while keeping your oily skin comfortable and hydrated. Allantoin and chamomile extract may also calm the skin, though an oily skin type benefits more from specialized ingredients like niacinamide, ceramides, or salicylic acid to actively manage shine and support skin health.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/), [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/)

### What does Sodium Laureth Sulfate do for oily skin?

Sodium laureth sulfate is a cleanser that removes excess oil, but it may dry out the skin and weaken its barrier. Because it is harsh, oily skin usually needs gentler cleansers containing mild surfactants and hydrating ingredients to stay calm and smooth.
Sources: [International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42617898/)

### What does Cocamidopropyl Betaine do for oily skin?

Cocamidopropyl betaine is a cleansing ingredient that helps wash away excess oil and dirt from oily skin. While it is generally safe for use in wash-off products, it is unlikely to change oil production and may cause mild skin irritation in some people.
Sources: [Toxicological Research, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38911545/)

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

This cleanser goes in the morning and evening routine, before your toner, moisturizer, and other steps. It removes impurities effectively, while glycerin and panthenol provide basic hydration and allantoin helps calm your skin.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/), [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/)

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

You can use this cleanser in your routine before applying a BHA treatment. It is unlikely to cause irritation on oily skin, but this skin type needs specialized oil control and balancing ingredients to work best.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/), [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/)

### How often should I use this cleanser?

You can use this cleanser twice a day in your morning and evening routines. Daily use of a gentle cleanser helps wash away impurities while maintaining basic hydration and soothing your skin.

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

This cleanser is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for oily skin, as it has a low risk of breakouts and uses gentle cleansers that wash away impurities cleanly. However, because it lacks specialized oil control and may feel drying for some, oily skin types often need ingredients like salicylic acid or niacinamide to better manage excess oil and shine.

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

You can use this cleanser on your body, but you should use caution around the thin skin of your eyes to avoid irritation. It helps wash away impurities while keeping skin comfortable, though oily skin on the body benefits most from products with targeted oil-control ingredients.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/), [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/)

### 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

No store in Ireland has a checked price for this product, so the page shows none.

## Ingredients

Water, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Glycerin, Sodium Chloride, Peg-200 Hydrogenated Glyceryl Palmate, Peg-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, Sodium Benzoate, Citric Acid, Allantoin, Panthenol, Chamomilla Recutita Flower Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Sodium Hydroxide, Tetrasodium Edta, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin
## 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/paula-s-choice/pore-normalizing-cleanser/for/oily-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/pore-normalizing-cleanser/for/oily-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/paula-s-choice/pore-normalizing-cleanser/for/oily-skin (this page)
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/pore-normalizing-cleanser/for/oily-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/paula-s-choice/pore-normalizing-cleanser/for/oily-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/paula-s-choice/pore-normalizing-cleanser/for/oily-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/paula-s-choice/pore-normalizing-cleanser/for/oily-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/paula-s-choice/pore-normalizing-cleanser/for/oily-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/paula-s-choice/pore-normalizing-cleanser/for/oily-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/paula-s-choice/pore-normalizing-cleanser/for/oily-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/paula-s-choice/pore-normalizing-cleanser/for/oily-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/paula-s-choice/pore-normalizing-cleanser/for/oily-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/pore-normalizing-cleanser/for/oily-skin