# Neutrogena Oil Balancing Facial Wash for combination skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/neutrogena/oil-balancing-facial-wash/for/combination-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 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.

Works for combination skin; other cleansers fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate exfoliation and cleansing for your combination skin, as salicylic acid helps decongest pores and citrus extracts aid in seboregulation, while glycerin provides essential hydration.
- The formulation is well-suited for managing oily shine, with ingredients working to balance oil production and maintain skin clarity.
- The product is safe for your skin, containing no harsh ingredients and including glycerin to soothe and prevent irritation.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Citrus Aurantifolia, Aloe Barbadensis, Salicylic Acid, Glycerin, Sodium Laureth Sulfate

## 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/))
- 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/))
- A cream combining propolis, tea tree oil, and Aloe vera reduced erythema scars, acne severity index, and total lesion count better than erythromycin cream in sixty patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris compared to placebo. ([Clinical Pharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/))
- Topical aloe vera gel significantly accelerated split-thickness skin graft donor-site healing compared to placebo in 12 patients, but showed no significant difference in pain relief. ([Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29649056/))
- Topical application of Aloe vera cream reduced postoperative pain at rest and during defecation, accelerated wound healing at two weeks, and decreased analgesic requirements in patients after open hemorrhoidectomy compared to placebo. ([Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20569031/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))

## What reviewers say

This facial wash is highly effective for oily and acne-prone skin, with many users noting a significant reduction in shine and improved skin texture. While it is praised for leaving skin feeling clean and refreshed, those with sensitive or dry skin should use it cautiously as it can occasionally cause tightness or irritation.

- Liked: Controls excess oil (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Effective cleansing (often mentioned)
- Liked: Refreshing, clean feel (often mentioned)
- Liked: Pleasant lime scent (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Can be drying (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Potential irritation (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Price concerns (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

### How well does Neutrogena Oil Balancing Facial Wash work for combination skin?

Neutrogena Oil Balancing Facial Wash works reasonably well for combination skin by offering moderate cleansing and exfoliation to help manage oily shine while keeping the skin hydrated. However, to achieve a better fit for this skin type, a cleanser needs to provide exceptionally safe and balanced hydration for dry areas alongside effective oil control without any risk of irritation.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [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 citrus extracts make this cleanser a good fit for combination skin by clearing out pores and managing oily shine, while glycerin provides essential hydration. A cleanser for this skin needs ingredients that balance oil and maintain moisture without causing irritation in dry areas.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

### What does Lime do for combination skin?

Lime essential oil helps keep skin clean thanks to its antimicrobial properties, but it can be drying or irritating on combination skin if not used carefully. A product of this type needs gentle balancing ingredients and hydrating properties to keep dry areas smooth and oily zones calm.
Sources: [International Journal of Microbiology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38204865/)

### What does Aloe Vera do for combination skin?

Aloe vera helps keep combination skin hydrated without making it oily. It increases skin water content while supporting the skin barrier.
Sources: [Skin Research and Technology, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17026654/)

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

This cleanser goes in your morning and evening routine as the first step or right after your makeup remover, helping to clear away oily shine while keeping your skin calm.

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

You can use this cleanser in your routine alongside retinol, applying it first to cleanse your skin before your retinol treatment. Because combination skin needs extra care when using strong ingredients, this skin type needs gentle cleansers with soothing and hydrating ingredients like glycerin to prevent irritation.

### How often should I use this cleanser?

You can use this cleanser daily in your morning and evening routines. Combination skin needs a product that provides gentle exfoliation, manages oily shine, and includes hydrating ingredients like glycerin to keep the skin balanced and comfortable.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32239984/)

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

This cleanser is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts because salicylic acid helps clear out trapped oil and dirt from your pores. However, it may feel a bit drying for some, so combination skin often benefits from formulas that combine gentle exfoliating acids with extra hydrating ingredients like ceramides or hyaluronic acid.
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?

You can use this cleanser on your body, but it is best to avoid the thin skin around your eyes to prevent irritation. A cleanser for this area needs gentle hydrating ingredients and a very mild formula that protects delicate skin.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/)

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

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

## Alternatives for combination skin

- [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €21.00 at Amazon
- [Eminence Organic Skin Care Clear Skin Probiotic Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/eminence-organic-skin-care/clear-skin-probiotic-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €79.88 at Amazon
- [Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/cetaphil/daily-facial-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — High fit — €13.45 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €36.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [SKIN1004 Centella Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/skin1004/centella-cream/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €19.20 at Amazon
- SPF: [make p:rem UV Defense Me Blue Ray Sun Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/make-p-rem/uv-defense-me-blue-ray-sun-cream/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €33.70 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Lauryl Glucoside, Sodium Lauroamphoacetate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Peg-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate, Polysorbate 20, Salicylic Acid, Citrus Aurantifolia Fruit Extract, Tangerine Extract, Propylene Glycol, Sodium Chloride, Disodium Edta, Citric Acid, Sodium Citrate, Parfum, Ci 15985, Ci 42090
## 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/oil-balancing-facial-wash/for/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/neutrogena/oil-balancing-facial-wash/for/combination-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/neutrogena/oil-balancing-facial-wash/for/combination-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/neutrogena/oil-balancing-facial-wash/for/combination-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/neutrogena/oil-balancing-facial-wash/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/neutrogena/oil-balancing-facial-wash/for/combination-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/neutrogena/oil-balancing-facial-wash/for/combination-skin (this page)
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/neutrogena/oil-balancing-facial-wash/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/neutrogena/oil-balancing-facial-wash/for/combination-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/neutrogena/oil-balancing-facial-wash/for/combination-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/neutrogena/oil-balancing-facial-wash/for/combination-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/neutrogena/oil-balancing-facial-wash/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/neutrogena/oil-balancing-facial-wash/for/combination-skin