# Neutrogena Hydro Boost Exfoliating Cleanser for dry sensitive skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-exfoliating-cleanser/for/dry-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: [Neutrogena](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/brands/neutrogena)
Category: [Cleansers](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/best/cleansers)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with dry sensitive skin: flakiness, tightness, redness, fine lines, and wrinkles. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for dry sensitive skin; other cleansers fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate cleansing and exfoliation for your dry and sensitive skin, as sodium c14-16 olefin sulfonate and glycolic acid effectively decongest impurities and refine texture.
- Glycerin and hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid provide humectant benefits, but the formula lacks sufficient emollient ingredients to fully address dryness and flakiness.
- The product is safe for your dry and sensitive skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the presence of soothing components.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Sodium Hyaluronate, Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, Carica Papaya Fruit Extract, Glycerin

## What the research says

- 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/))
- Profhilo treatment led to significant improvements in superficial skin hydration and transepidermal water loss over time in Chinese females, while demonstrating good product tolerability. ([Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40921777/))
- 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/))
- Repeated short-contact 70% glycolic acid peels provided superior results in atrophic acne scars compared to daily low-strength glycolic acid cream or placebo in 58 women over 24 weeks. ([International Journal of Dermatology, 2000](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11095203/))
- Serial glycolic acid peels combined with a modified Kligman formula significantly reduced facial PIH severity in Indian patients compared to the modified Kligman formula alone. ([Dermatologic Surgery, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28114204/))
- Application of a cream containing lactic acid 12% and pramoxine HCl 1% significantly improved skin dryness, hydration, and itch compared with a nontreated control in 24 women with a history of dry itchy skin. ([Cutis, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15027519/))
- Topical 12% ammonium lactate produced a significant sparing of epidermal and dermal atrophy induced by clobetasol propionate in human volunteers, without influencing the corticosteroid's bioavailability or antiinflammatory properties. ([Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 1992](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1597538/))
- A lactic acid/ceramide lotion significantly improved skin moisturization and desquamation compared to no treatment in women with dry, rough skin on the anterior shins. ([The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33178384/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- Niacinamide/glycerin body moisturizers provided better rapid and prolonged improvement of cosmetic xerosis through functional improvement of stratum corneum barrier function compared to no treatment and conventional moisturizers in female subjects. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22206073/))

## Why other cleansers fit dry sensitive skin better

- Phytosphingosine increased filaggrin metabolism and skin hydration in human skin by stimulating filaggrin biosynthesis and degradation leading to natural moisturizing factor formation. ([Archives of Dermatological Research, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28936777/))
- A cream containing panthenol, prebiotics, and probiotic lysate improved facial sensitive skin symptoms and skin barrier function in 110 participants over 28 days. ([Skin Research and Technology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38186043/))
- A panthenol-enriched mask improved skin hydration, regulated sebum, and reduced redness and TEWL across dry sensitive, oily sensitive, and oily acne skin subgroups with excellent tolerance and no adverse reactions. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38366684/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this cleanser is frequently praised for its gentle exfoliation, leaving skin feeling soft and refreshed, particularly for those with combination and dry skin. A moderate number of users report it causes dryness or tightness, and a low number of users with sensitive skin experienced irritation or breakouts, suggesting the exfoliating agents and fragrance may be too potent for reactive skin types.

- Liked: Gentle exfoliation (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Refreshing feel (often mentioned)
- Liked: Softens texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Pleasant scent (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Causes dryness (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Ineffective/gentle (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Irritation/breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Strong fragrance (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your cleanser AM and PM every day to keep your face fresh. Start slowly once a day if your dry skin feels sensitive at first.
- Apply your cleanser first thing in your routine before any toner or moisturizer. Follow the usual steps for your AM or PM daily routine.
- Gently massage the cleanser onto your face using soft circular motions. Avoid harsh rubbing to protect your dry skin.
- Apply the cleanser to slightly damp skin to help it clean gently without stripping moisture. This method is very safe for sensitive and dry skin types.
- Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and avoid the delicate eye area. Always do a patch test before using the product for the first time.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/6a08416bd9315041c09c72f61cf27cc1.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does Neutrogena Hydro Boost Exfoliating Cleanser work for dry sensitive skin?

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Exfoliating Cleanser is an average fit for dry sensitive skin, as it cleans and smooths texture well, but lacks enough softening ingredients to fully address dryness and flakiness. A cleanser for this skin needs rich hydrating and barrier-repairing ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid to maintain moisture and protect the skin.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

Glycerin, sodium hyaluronate, and hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid help attract moisture to your dry and sensitive skin. To truly feel soft and smooth instead of flaky, this type of skin needs extra nourishing and barrier-restoring ingredients like ceramides.

### What does Hyaluronic Acid do for dry sensitive skin?

Hyaluronic acid is a great fit for dry, sensitive skin because it brings a large boost in hydration, making the skin feel soft and smooth while improving barrier function. It helps calm tightness and dryness, and is unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/), [Dermatology and Therapy, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34176098/)

### What does Glycolic Acid do for dry sensitive skin?

Glycolic acid can be too harsh for dry sensitive skin and may cause irritation, so this skin type needs gentle calming ingredients and deeply nourishing moisturizers to keep the skin barrier safe and smooth.
Sources: [Acta Dermato-venereologica, 1995](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8651024/), [The British Journal of Dermatology, 1997](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9470910/)

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

This cleanser goes in the morning and evening routine for your dry sensitive skin before your toner and moisturizer. A product of this type needs rich softening and smoothing ingredients like nourishing oils and butters to fully address dryness and flakiness on this skin.
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 may use this cleanser with retinol, but because it includes acids, it is best used in the evening before your retinol treatment while keeping a close eye out for any dryness. To keep your dry and sensitive skin soft and comfortable, this skin type needs a cleanser that also includes rich soothing oils and barrier-repairing ceramides to lock in moisture.

### How often should I use this cleanser?

Start using this exfoliating cleanser just once a week to see how your dry, sensitive skin responds. If your skin feels comfortable and tolerates it well, you may carefully use it more often. A product for this skin type needs extra softening ingredients to fully address dryness and flakiness.

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

This cleanser is unlikely to cause breakouts or clog pores on dry sensitive skin, as it has a low risk of irritation and helps clear impurities without harsh ingredients. However, because it lacks enough softening ingredients to fully tackle flakiness, a product of this type needs rich, nourishing oils or butters and deeply soothing ingredients to properly comfort dry skin.

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

You can use this cleanser on your body, but you should avoid the thin skin around your eyes since active exfoliants may easily cause irritation there. To properly care for dry and sensitive skin, a cleanser of this type needs extra soothing and softening ingredients to fully lock in moisture and prevent flakiness.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for dry sensitive skin

- [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €15.00 at Amazon
- [La Roche-Posay Hydrating Gentle Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/la-roche-posay/toleriane-hydrating-gentle-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €21.95 at Amazon
- [ETUDE Soonjung pH 6.5 Whip Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/etude/soonjung-ph-6-5-whip-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €21.74 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Soothing Toner: [SKIN1004 Centella Asiatica Toning Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/skin1004/centella-asiatica-toning-toner/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €17.96 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [d'Alba UVessence Mild Waterfull Sun Cream SPF 50](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/d-alba/uvessence-mild-waterfull-sun-cream-spf-50/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €16.75 at Amazon
- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €11.83 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Water, Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Glycerin, Sodium Hydrolyzed Potato Dodecenylsuccinate Starch, Acrylates Crosspolymer-4, Cellulose, Polysorbate 20, Citric Acid, Sodium Benzoate, Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Disodium Edta, Carica Papaya Fruit Extract, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid
## 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/hydro-boost-exfoliating-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-exfoliating-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-exfoliating-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-exfoliating-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-exfoliating-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-exfoliating-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-exfoliating-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin (this page)
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-exfoliating-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-exfoliating-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-exfoliating-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-exfoliating-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-exfoliating-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-exfoliating-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin