# Clarins Total Cleansing Oil for sensitive skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for sensitive skin.**
Normal Skin Fit: Average · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/clarins/total-cleansing-oil/for/sensitive-skin

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

Brand: [Clarins](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/brands/clarins)
Category: [Makeup removers](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/best/makeup-removers)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with sensitive skin: redness, stinging, and reactions to new products. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for sensitive skin; other pre-cleansers fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate suitability for your normal skin with sensitivity, as Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil and Prunus Armeniaca Kernel Oil provide emollient action to support your redness and irritation. However, the formula lacks sufficient humectants for optimal hydration.
- The product effectively removes makeup and impurities, offering general skincare benefits like hydration and antioxidant functions from Tocopherol and Moringa Oleifera Seed Extract.
- The safety profile is excellent, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the presence of soothing agents like Melissa Officinalis Leaf Extract and Gentiana Lutea Extract.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/clarins/total-cleansing-oil/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/clarins/total-cleansing-oil/for/dry-skin): High
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/clarins/total-cleansing-oil/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/clarins/total-cleansing-oil/for/sensitive-skin): Average (this page)
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/clarins/total-cleansing-oil/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/clarins/total-cleansing-oil/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/clarins/total-cleansing-oil/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/clarins/total-cleansing-oil/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/clarins/total-cleansing-oil/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Alpine Golden Gentian Extract, Melissa Officinalis Extract, Sunflower Seed Oil, Apricot Kernel Oil, Moringa Oleifera Seed Extract

## What the research says

- A topical serum containing vitamin C, vitamin E, and raspberry leaf cell culture extract improved skin color, elasticity, radiance, smoothness, scaliness, and wrinkles compared to the untreated contralateral side in fifty female volunteers. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/))
- Topical application of Gentiana lutea extract reduced average roughness, relief of the upper eyelid skin, and redness of dark circles in 22 subjects after 14 days compared to placebo. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37365865/))
- Gentiana lutea extract increases lipid synthesis and triglyceride levels in human primary keratinocytes in vitro via p38 MAPK and PPARgamma signaling, and significantly increases skin lipid content in a proof-of-concept trial of 33 volunteers compared to placebo. ([International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28829355/))
- Topical application of a cream containing the NHE1 activator rosmarinic acid decreased skin surface pH and transepidermal water loss while increasing skin hydration in 50-60-year-old adult females compared to vehicle cream and no treatment. ([International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35409270/))
- Topical treatment with a lemon balm leaf extract formulation reduced eye-corner wrinkles in 20 healthy women compared to placebo by promoting Endo180 production and inhibiting the decline in collagen levels. ([Photodermatology, Photoimmunology & Photomedicine, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39888701/))
- Incorporating rosmarinic acid into sunscreens enhanced the in vivo SPF of octocrylene by over 157% and reduced lipid peroxidation in the human stratum corneum. ([Antioxidants, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40227214/))
- Aqueous standardized leaf extracts of Moringa oleifera showed the highest human dermal fibroblast and human keratinocyte proliferation and migration properties, leading to the development of an alginate-pectin film dressing with optimal physicochemical properties. ([Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29080829/))
- Topical administration of Moringa oleifera seed extract on excision wounds in male albino rabbits significantly increased the wound healing rate, elevated TGF-β1, VEGF, and Type I collagen relative expression, and reduced inflammatory markers like IL-1β and TNF-α compared to untreated and MEBO-treated groups. ([Antioxidants, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36139817/))
- Moringa oleifera leaf extracts provided significant UV protection with an SPF of 2 at 2% to 4% concentrations and showed no significant irritant potential in cosmetic formulations. ([Molecules, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29543741/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users frequently praise this lightweight oil for its ability to emulsify into a milky texture that removes waterproof makeup without stripping moisture, leaving skin feeling soft and hydrated. Many appreciate the floral scent and the post-wash feel. A minority of users with oily or sensitive eyes report issues with blurry vision or find the fragrance overpowering.

- Liked: Gentle and non-drying (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Effective makeup remover (often mentioned)
- Liked: Luxurious scent (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Pleasant texture (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Eye irritation (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: High price (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Little goes long way (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Strong fragrance (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Thin consistency (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this makeup remover PM as the first step of your evening routine. Start 3x/week before building up to daily use if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply this makeup remover before your regular cleanser and toner. Follow with your usual moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated.
- Gently press a small amount of the makeup remover onto your face using a soft cotton pad. Avoid any harsh rubbing to protect your sensitive skin.
- Apply the makeup remover on dry skin to ensure better tolerance for sensitive areas. This helps reduce any potential irritation or redness.
- Do a patch test before your first use and avoid the direct eye area to ensure safe application.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c35a78bc839b6c00f5359ad6ae653522.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does Clarins Total Cleansing Oil work for sensitive skin?

Clarins Total Cleansing Oil works moderately well for sensitive skin, as its nourishing oils help support redness and irritation. However, the formula lacks enough moisture-binding ingredients for optimal hydration. A makeup remover for this skin needs effective hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, along with soothing agents and zero allergens to keep skin balanced and protected.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37365865/)

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

Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil, Prunus Armeniaca Kernel Oil, Melissa Officinalis Leaf Extract, and Gentiana Lutea Extract help support redness and irritation. To fit sensitive skin even better, this type of product needs deep hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, plus nourishing and protecting agents such as beeswax and citrus oils.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37365865/)

### What does Alpine Golden Gentian Extract do for sensitive skin?

Alpine Golden Gentian Extract helps calm sensitive skin by reducing redness and soothing rough patches when applied daily. Studies show it improves the look of delicate areas like the upper eyelids and dark circles while being gentle enough for everyday use.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37365865/)

### What does Lemon Balm Extract do for sensitive skin?

Lemon balm extract helps soothe sensitive and irritated skin while keeping it hydrated and protecting it from everyday damage. Clinical and lab studies show that it calms redness, reduces moisture loss, and defends against oxidative stress.
Sources: [International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35409270/), [Journal of Dermatological Science, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27528586/)

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

This makeup remover goes in the evening routine before your cleanser, to gently take off makeup and impurities. Because it provides average suitability for sensitive skin, a product of this type needs added water-attracting ingredients to keep this skin properly hydrated.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32239984/)

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

You can use this makeup remover in your evening routine before your cleanser and retinol treatment. Sensitive skin of this type needs added hydrating ingredients to keep the skin feeling soft and comfortable alongside active treatments.
Sources: [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17121065/)

### How often should I use this cleanser?

You can use this makeup remover in your evening routine and during your weekly routine as a first step to take off makeup and impurities. This product works well for sensitive skin, though a sensitive skin routine needs extra hydrating ingredients to keep dry areas comfortable.

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

This cleanser is unlikely to cause breakouts or clog pores for sensitive skin, as it has a very safe formula with soothing ingredients like Melissa Officinalis Leaf Extract and Gentiana Lutea Extract. However, because it only offers an average fit for this skin type, a product for sensitive skin also needs plenty of water-attracting ingredients to keep it properly hydrated.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37365865/)

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

It has no drying alcohol and contains fragrance (parfum).

## Alternatives for sensitive skin

- [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €11.83 at Amazon
- [Pyunkang Yul Deep Clear Cleansing Balm](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/pyunkang-yul/deep-clear-cleansing-balm/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €18.11 at Amazon
- [ANUA Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/anua/heartleaf-pore-control-cleansing-oil/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — €9.70 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [La Roche-Posay Hydrating Gentle Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/la-roche-posay/toleriane-hydrating-gentle-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €21.95 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [SKIN1004 Centella Asiatica Toning Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/skin1004/centella-asiatica-toning-toner/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €17.96 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [Bioderma Bioderma Photoderm Mineral SPF 50+](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/bioderma/photoderm-mineral-fluide-spf50/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €19.79 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Notino: €21.50 (https://www.notino.nl/clarins/cleansing-total-cleansing-oil-reinigende-en-make-up-removing-olie-voor-het-gezicht/p-16229349/)
Prices checked 10 Oct 2026.

## Ingredients

Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil Sunflower Seed Oil, C9-12 Alkane, Peg-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate, Prunus Armeniaca Kernel Oil Apricot Kernel Oil, Water, Propanediol, Parfum, Tocopherol, Melissa Officinalis Leaf Extract, Sodium Citrate, Gentiana Lutea Extract, Citric Acid, Capsicum Annuum Fruit Extract, Maltodextrin, Moringa Oleifera Seed Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract Rosemary Leaf Extract
## 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/clarins/total-cleansing-oil/for/sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/clarins/total-cleansing-oil/for/sensitive-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/clarins/total-cleansing-oil/for/sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/clarins/total-cleansing-oil/for/sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/clarins/total-cleansing-oil/for/sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/clarins/total-cleansing-oil/for/sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/clarins/total-cleansing-oil/for/sensitive-skin (this page)
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/clarins/total-cleansing-oil/for/sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/clarins/total-cleansing-oil/for/sensitive-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/clarins/total-cleansing-oil/for/sensitive-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/clarins/total-cleansing-oil/for/sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/clarins/total-cleansing-oil/for/sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/clarins/total-cleansing-oil/for/sensitive-skin