# CeraVe SA Smoothing Cleanser for combination skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/cerave/sa-smoothing-cleanser/for/combination-skin

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

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

A great choice for combination skin; a few cleansers fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Highly suitable for your combination skin as salicylic acid and niacinamide work to manage oiliness and dryness, while also providing moderate exfoliation to address oily shine.
- Gluconolactone further aids in smoothing skin texture, complementing the keratolytic action of salicylic acid for enhanced results.
- The formula is safe for your skin, containing no harsh or prohibited ingredients that could cause irritation.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Salicylic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Ceramide Np, Niacinamide, Glycerin

## 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/))
- 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 application of 0.1% hyaluronic acid formulations of different molecular weights led to significant improvements in skin hydration and elasticity, with low-molecular-weight formulations also significantly reducing wrinkle depth in seventy-six female subjects compared to a vehicle control. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/))
- Topical application of hyaluronic acid in conjunction with free gingival graft significantly reduced donor site postoperative pain until day 7 compared to normal saline, with no significant differences in graft dimensions or patient satisfaction. ([Clinical Oral Investigations, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34623507/))
- Treatment with a hyaluronic acid-containing mouth rinse or topical gel led to significant lesion reduction, pain relief, and normalization of lesion color in adult patients with minor recurrent aphthous stomatitis, with the gel formulation showing an earlier healing onset at 3 days. ([BMC Oral Health, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31311529/))
- 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/))
- 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/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users consistently praise this cleanser for effectively retexturizing rough, bumpy skin and managing mild acne without harsh physical scrubs. While the majority find it gentle enough for daily use, a notable minority with sensitive or very dry skin report it can be stripping or cause an initial "purging" phase before results are seen.

- Liked: Effective body cleanser (often mentioned)
- Liked: Smoothes rough texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Clears mild acne (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Gentle non-foaming formula (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Drying for some (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Causes skin purging (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Ineffective for severe acne (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Packaging pump issues (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

### What makes CeraVe SA Smoothing Cleanser a great fit for combination skin?

Salicylic acid and niacinamide work to manage oiliness and dryness while providing moderate exfoliation to address oily shine. Gluconolactone further aids in smoothing skin texture, and the formula contains no harsh ingredients that could cause irritation.
Sources: [BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

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

Salicylic acid and niacinamide make this cleanser a great fit because they help manage both oily shine and dry areas while gently smoothing your skin. Ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid also help support your skin barrier and keep it feeling soft and balanced.
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 combination skin?

Salicylic acid helps clear clogged pores and balance oily areas while remaining gentle enough for dry spots on combination skin. It reduces breakouts and oiliness effectively with a low likelihood of irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38051857/)

### What does Hyaluronic Acid do for combination skin?

Hyaluronic acid is a great fit for combination skin because it quenches dry areas with a boost of hydration while keeping oily zones balanced. Regular use helps smooth out fine lines and makes your skin feel soft and plump without causing irritation.
Sources: [Dermatology and Therapy, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34176098/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/)

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

This cleanser fits into both your morning and evening routines as the first or second cleansing step. A consistent skincare regimen using a mild cleanser helps improve skin texture and manage oiliness without causing irritation.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32239984/), [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31461548/)

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

You can use this cleanser with retinol by using the cleanser first and applying your retinol afterwards. Because this formula provides gentle exfoliation without harsh ingredients, it is unlikely to cause irritation when paired with your treatment.

### How often should I use this cleanser?

You can use this cleanser daily in your morning and evening routines because its gentle formula manages oiliness and dryness without causing irritation. Starting slowly with exfoliating products helps your skin adjust safely to the ingredients.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32239984/), [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31461548/)

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

This cleanser is unlikely to clog pores, but it may cause a low likelihood of skin purging for combination skin. Salicylic acid helps clear out debris gently, which can temporarily bring underlying congestion to the surface as it smooths the skin.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38051857/)

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

This cleanser is a great fit for your combination skin because salicylic acid and niacinamide manage oiliness and dryness while gently smoothing texture. Its safe formula is gentle enough to use on the body, but take care around the thin skin near the eyes to avoid irritation.

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for combination skin

- [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €24.75 at Amazon
- [Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/cetaphil/daily-facial-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — High fit — €12.34 at Amazon
- [Pyunkang Yul Deep Cleansing Foam](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/pyunkang-yul/deep-cleansing-foam/for/combination-skin) — High fit — €15.48 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Hydrating Toner: [La Mer The Tonic](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/la-mer/the-tonic/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €103.91 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €18.47 at Amazon
- SPF: [make p:rem UV Defense Me Blue Ray Sun Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/make-p-rem/uv-defense-me-blue-ray-sun-cream/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €40.49 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.it: €18.00 (https://www.amazon.it/dp/B09MMJS8ZM?tag=lovi-care-web-product09-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Lookfantastic: €12.51 (https://www.lookfantastic.it/p/cerave-sa-smoothing-cleanser-with-salicylic-acid-for-dry-rough-bumpy-skin-236ml/12207663/)
- Notino: €14.70 (https://www.notino.it/cerave/sa-gel-detergente-e-ammorbidente-per-pelli-normali-e-secche/p-15992945/)
Prices checked 10 Oct – 4 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

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