# Clarins Total Cleansing Oil for oily acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/clarins/total-cleansing-oil/for/oily-acne-prone-skin

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

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

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with oily acne-prone skin: shine, breakouts, blemishes, and enlarged pores. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for oily acne-prone skin; other pre-cleansers fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate suitability for your oily skin as Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil and Prunus Armeniaca Kernel Oil provide emollient action, though they may not be sufficient for optimal oil control.
- While it excels at makeup removal with these oils, it lacks specialized ingredients to effectively target your acne, blemishes, and breakouts.
- The product is safe for your oily skin 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/p/clarins/total-cleansing-oil/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/clarins/total-cleansing-oil/for/dry-skin): High
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/clarins/total-cleansing-oil/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/clarins/total-cleansing-oil/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/clarins/total-cleansing-oil/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/clarins/total-cleansing-oil/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/clarins/total-cleansing-oil/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/clarins/total-cleansing-oil/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/clarins/total-cleansing-oil/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average (this page)

## Key ingredients

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

## What the research says

- 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 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/))
- 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/))

## Why other pre-cleansers fit oily acne-prone skin better

- Epigallocatechin-3-gallate significantly improved acne in patients compared to the control side during an 8-week clinical trial. ([The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23096708/))

## 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 to clear away impurities. Start by using it 3×/week before working up to daily use if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply this makeup remover before your regular cleanser and toner. Follow it with your usual cleansing steps to ensure all residue is thoroughly washed away.
- Gently press a small amount of the makeup remover onto your face using soft cotton pads. Avoid harsh rubbing to prevent irritating your blemishes and active breakouts.
- Apply the makeup remover on completely dry skin to effectively break down excess oil and makeup. Clean away thoroughly before moving on to the next skincare steps .
- Do a patch test before your first use to ensure your skin reacts well. Avoid getting the product directly into your eyes .
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c35a78bc839b6c00f5359ad6ae653522.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does Clarins Total Cleansing Oil work for oily acne-prone skin?

Clarins Total Cleansing Oil works moderately well for oily acne-prone skin, as it removes makeup safely with soothing plant extracts but lacks ingredients for oil control and breakouts. A makeup remover for this skin needs lightweight, hydrating, and soothing ingredients that help manage excess oil without clogging pores.

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

Melissa officinalis leaf extract and gentiana lutea extract make this cleanser a good fit because they provide soothing benefits without harsh ingredients. However, to truly suit oily acne-prone skin, a makeup remover needs ingredients that control oil and target breakouts.

### What does Alpine Golden Gentian Extract do for oily acne-prone skin?

Alpine Golden Gentian Extract helps soothe and calm oily, acne-prone skin while reducing redness and irritation. This type of skin needs lightweight, balancing ingredients that control excess shine without clogging pores.

### What does Lemon Balm Extract do for oily acne-prone skin?

Lemon balm extract helps calm oily acne-prone skin and supports a clear, balanced complexion. A product of this type needs soothing ingredients and oils that control shine without clogging pores to truly work well for this skin type.

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

This makeup remover goes in the evening routine before your cleanser, and in your weekly routine before your cleanser and enzyme powder. It works for your oily skin, though an oil-controlling cleanser and blemish-fighting ingredients would fit it better.

### 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. It helps remove makeup safely without harsh ingredients, though oily acne-prone skin also needs specialized blemish-fighting ingredients and oil-control agents.

### How often should I use this cleanser?

Clarins Total Cleansing Oil works well in your evening routine as a makeup remover, though it may not provide enough oil control for your oily acne-prone skin on its own. Oily acne-prone skin needs a makeup remover that combines effective cleansing oils with specialized ingredients to target breakouts and blemishes.

### Can it clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for oily acne-prone skin?

This cleansing oil may not cause breakouts from harsh ingredients, but it lacks the specialized acne-fighting components needed to actively target your pimples. Oily acne-prone skin needs a cleanser with targeted blemish-fighting and oil-controlling ingredients to keep pores clear.

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

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

## Alternatives for oily acne-prone skin

- [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $21.70 at Amazon
- [Cetaphil Gentle Makeup Removing Wipes](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cetaphil/gentle-makeup-removing-wipes/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — $6.97 at Amazon
- [Shu Uemura Ultime8 Sublime Beauty Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/shu-uemura/ultime8-sublime-beauty-cleansing-oil/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — $50.00 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $15.97 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $25.60 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $18.99 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.com: $40.00 (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08B7X6LDQ?tag=lovi-care-web-product-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 5 Nov 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/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/clarins/total-cleansing-oil/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/clarins/total-cleansing-oil/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/clarins/total-cleansing-oil/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/clarins/total-cleansing-oil/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/clarins/total-cleansing-oil/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/clarins/total-cleansing-oil/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/clarins/total-cleansing-oil/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/clarins/total-cleansing-oil/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/clarins/total-cleansing-oil/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/clarins/total-cleansing-oil/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/clarins/total-cleansing-oil/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/clarins/total-cleansing-oil/for/oily-acne-prone-skin