# Clinique Acne Solutions Cleansing Foam for dry sensitive skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/clinique/acne-solutions-cleansing-foam/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 United States.

Brand: [Clinique](https://lovi.care/skincare/brands/clinique)
Category: [Cleansers](https://lovi.care/skincare/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.

A poor match for dry sensitive skin; the cleansers alongside fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate exfoliation for your dry and sensitive skin due to salicylic acid, which can be drying and lacks sufficient emollient ingredients like Glycerin and Sodium Hyaluronate for adequate hydration and barrier support.
- While the salicylic acid effectively cleanses acne-prone skin by exfoliating and decongesting pores, its drying nature makes it less ideal for your primary concern of dry or flaky skin.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/clinique/acne-solutions-cleansing-foam/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/clinique/acne-solutions-cleansing-foam/for/dry-skin): Caution
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/clinique/acne-solutions-cleansing-foam/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/clinique/acne-solutions-cleansing-foam/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/clinique/acne-solutions-cleansing-foam/for/acne-prone-skin): Superior
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/clinique/acne-solutions-cleansing-foam/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/clinique/acne-solutions-cleansing-foam/for/mature-skin): Low
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/clinique/acne-solutions-cleansing-foam/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Caution (this page)
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/clinique/acne-solutions-cleansing-foam/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Superior

## Key ingredients

Salicylic Acid, Glycerin, Laminaria Digitata Extract, Caffeine, Acetyl Glucosamine

## What the research says

- 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 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- A skincare regimen containing Macrocystis pyrifera ferment consisting of a cleansing foam, a serum, and a moisturizer decreases the visible effects of inflammation and aging while promoting healing and improving patient satisfaction. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38922798/))
- Macrocystis pyrifera ferment-containing creams decrease visible inflammation and signs of aging while enhancing barrier resilience and recovery. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38041526/))
- Aqueous extracts from Macrocystis pyrifera and Durvillaea antarctica exhibited antiviral activity against acyclovir-sensitive and acyclovir-resistant HSV-1 and HSV-2, and topical formulations significantly reduced the severity and duration of HSV-1 skin lesions in an animal model compared to mock treatment and acyclovir. ([Frontiers in Microbiology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33013743/))
- A topical cosmetic slimming product containing tetrahydroxypropyl ethylenediamine, caffeine, carnitine, forskolin and retinol significantly reduced body circumferences and improved skin aspect compared with placebo in 78 women over 12 weeks. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21564138/))
- Topical sunscreen formulations containing caffeine combined with UV filters increased in vivo anti-UVB protection by approximately 25% and showed higher SPF values compared to caffeine-free sunscreen, while being well tolerated by the skin of healthy subjects. ([Frontiers in Physiology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31130869/))
- Caffeine gel combined with choline geranate showed high skin permeation capacity and superior clinical results in cellulite treatment compared to caffeine gel without ionic liquid. ([AAPS PharmSciTech, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33796955/))
- Topical 2% N-acetyl glucosamine reduced facial hyperpigmentation in an 8-week split-face clinical test, with an even greater effect observed when combined with 4% niacinamide. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17348991/))
- N-acetyl-glucosamine-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers successfully delivered the hydrophilic agent through the skin and reduced melanin distribution in healthy volunteers. ([Advanced Pharmaceutical Bulletin, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28101465/))
- Topical cosmetic products containing hyaluronic acid, N-acetyl glucosamine, and gamma-amino butyric acid improved skin hydration by 24.28% to 33.60%, elasticity by 11.98%, and skin lightening by 5.26% over 2 months in 20 female participants. ([Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30040516/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users with oily and acne-prone skin consistently praise this foam for effectively clearing breakouts and reducing redness without leaving a residue. Users with dry or sensitive skin frequently report that the formula is too stripping, leading to tightness and flaking if not paired with a strong moisturizer.

- Liked: Effective acne treatment (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle on oily skin (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Drying and stripping (often mentioned)
- Liked: Convenient pump (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Deep cleaning, oil control (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant scent (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Packaging issues (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Watery consistency (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

### Why does Lovi advise caution with Clinique Acne Solutions Cleansing Foam for dry sensitive skin?

Lovi advises caution because salicylic acid offers moderate exfoliation that can dry out your dry sensitive skin, and the formula lacks enough moisturizing and barrier-supporting ingredients. A cleanser for this skin needs a rich blend of hydrating and barrier-repairing ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid to maintain moisture and protect skin health.

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

Salicylic acid makes this cleanser a poor fit because it can be drying, and the formula lacks enough moisturizing ingredients like glycerin and sodium hyaluronate to support your skin barrier. A cleanser for dry sensitive skin needs rich hydrating and barrier-restoring ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid to maintain moisture and protect the skin.

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

Salicylic acid is generally a poor fit for dry, sensitive skin because it is designed to clear out pores by removing excess oil, which can easily leave dry skin irritated. A product of this type needs gentle exfoliating helpers paired with rich, soothing moisturizers and barrier-repairing ingredients to keep dry skin calm and comfortable.

### What does Glycerin do for dry sensitive skin?

Glycerin helps dry sensitive skin by drawing moisture into the skin and keeping it there, making the skin soft and smooth. It is very gentle and unlikely to cause irritation while improving how well the skin holds onto water. This type of skin needs ingredients that boost hydration and repair the barrier without causing stinging.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18510666/)

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

This cleanser may be too drying for your dry sensitive skin, as it offers moderate exfoliation from salicylic acid without enough hydrating and barrier-supporting ingredients. Dry sensitive skin needs a gentle, hydrating cleanser with soothing ingredients and rich moisturizers to keep skin soft and comfortable.

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

Using this cleanser with retinol requires caution, as the salicylic acid in the cleanser combined with retinol may dry out and irritate dry and sensitive skin. To use them safely, use the cleanser and retinol on alternate days, or apply them at different times of day while following up with a rich moisturizer that provides strong hydration and barrier support.

### How often should I use it?

This cleanser uses salicylic acid which can be drying, so it is a poor match for your dry and sensitive skin. If you still choose to use it, a product of this type needs plenty of soothing hydration and barrier support ingredients like glycerin and sodium hyaluronate to keep skin soft and comfortable.

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

This cleanser is unlikely to clog pores since it contains salicylic acid to help clear out debris, but its drying nature may leave dry sensitive skin feeling stripped. This type of skin needs gentle cleansers with rich, soothing hydrators and barrier-supporting ingredients to wash away impurities without causing tightness or flaking.
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 it around the eyes or on my body?

This cleanser contains salicylic acid, which may be too drying for the thin skin around the eyes and is better suited for acne-prone areas on the body. A product used around the eyes needs gentle ingredients that hydrate and support the skin barrier, such as glycerin and sodium hyaluronate.
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/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $16.97 at Amazon
- [La Roche-Posay Hydrating Gentle Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/la-roche-posay/toleriane-hydrating-gentle-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $19.99 at Amazon
- [Torriden DIVE IN Cleansing Foam](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/torriden/dive-in-cleansing-foam/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $17.00 at Amazon

## Routine for dry sensitive skin

### AM

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $16.97 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/clarins/soothing-toning-lotion/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $28.05 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [d'Alba UVessence Mild Waterfull Sun Cream SPF 50](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/d-alba/uvessence-mild-waterfull-sun-cream-spf-50/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $18.99 at Amazon

### PM

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $21.70 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $16.97 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/clarins/soothing-toning-lotion/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $28.05 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $39.99 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/drunk-elephant/protini-polypeptide-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $49.95 at Amazon

### Weekly

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $21.70 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $16.97 at Amazon
- Nourishing Mask: [MEDIHEAL Vita Essential Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/mediheal/vita-essential-mask/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $22.00 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $39.99 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/drunk-elephant/protini-polypeptide-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $49.95 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.com: $29.00 (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0011MJLNI?tag=lovi-care-web-product-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Sucrose, Disodium Phosphate, Arginine Cocoate, Laminaria Digitata Extract, Caffeine, Algae Extract, Cola Acuminata Seed Extract, Sea Whip Extract, Peg Ppg-18 18 Dimethicone, Sodium Hyaluronate, Ppg-6-Decyltetradeceth-30, Lactobacillus Ferment, Stearamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Acetyl Glucosamine, Capryloyl Glycine, 10-Hydroxydecanoic Acid, Polyquaternium-7, Stearic Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Disodium Edta, Phenoxyethanol, Chloroxylenol, Salicylic 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/clinique/acne-solutions-cleansing-foam/for/dry-sensitive-skin (this page)
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/clinique/acne-solutions-cleansing-foam/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/clinique/acne-solutions-cleansing-foam/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/clinique/acne-solutions-cleansing-foam/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/clinique/acne-solutions-cleansing-foam/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/clinique/acne-solutions-cleansing-foam/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/clinique/acne-solutions-cleansing-foam/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/clinique/acne-solutions-cleansing-foam/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/clinique/acne-solutions-cleansing-foam/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/clinique/acne-solutions-cleansing-foam/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/clinique/acne-solutions-cleansing-foam/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/clinique/acne-solutions-cleansing-foam/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/clinique/acne-solutions-cleansing-foam/for/dry-sensitive-skin