# Colorescience Barrier Pro 1-Step Cleanser for oily acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/colorescience/barrier-pro-1-step-cleanser/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: [Colorescience](https://lovi.care/skincare/brands/colorescience)
Category: [Cleansers](https://lovi.care/skincare/best/cleansers)

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.

One of the best cleansers for oily acne-prone skin.

## Why this fit

- Excellent suitability for your oily skin is provided by Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate and Cocamidopropyl Betaine, which offer effective pore cleansing and seboregulation to address your acne, blemishes, and breakouts. Grapefruit Fruit Extract and Lactobacillus Ferment further support mild cleansing and probiotic benefits, enhancing the product's efficacy for your concerns.
- The formulation is well-balanced with Glycerin and Propanediol to maintain hydration without compromising the cleansing action.
- This product is safe for your skin, featuring soothing ingredients like Lactobacillus Ferment and Opuntia Ficus-Indica Stem Extract with no risk of irritation.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/colorescience/barrier-pro-1-step-cleanser/for/oily-skin): Superior
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/colorescience/barrier-pro-1-step-cleanser/for/dry-skin): Superior
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/colorescience/barrier-pro-1-step-cleanser/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/colorescience/barrier-pro-1-step-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/colorescience/barrier-pro-1-step-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin): Superior
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/colorescience/barrier-pro-1-step-cleanser/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/colorescience/barrier-pro-1-step-cleanser/for/mature-skin): Superior
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/colorescience/barrier-pro-1-step-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/colorescience/barrier-pro-1-step-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Superior (this page)

## Key ingredients

Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Glycerin, Lactobacillus Ferment, Grapefruit Fruit Extract

## What the research says

- Sodium lauroyl sarcosinate in facial cleanser decreased prokaryotic microbial alpha diversity, altered prokaryotic microbiome structure, increased phosphatidylglycerol and phosphatidylcholine, and decreased ceramides on facial skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37990616/))
- Topical application of a postbiotic Saccharomyces and Lactobacillus ferment complex for 28 days significantly modulated the scalp microbiome and achieved a 100% sensitive scalp syndrome alleviation effect in Chinese women with sensitive scalp syndrome. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37767337/))
- Topical application of 1,3-propanediol at various concentrations, alone or combined with butylene glycol and/or glycerol, increased skin hydration and reduced trans epidermal water loss in 30 healthy female subjects over an 8-hour period, with the 15% concentration and the addition of glycerol providing greater benefits. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37699769/))
- 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/))
- Opuntia ficus-indica extract and its isorhamnetin-glucosyl-rhamnoside suppressed nitric oxide, COX-2, TNF-alpha, and IL-6 production in vitro and inhibited croton oil-induced ear edema in vivo. ([BioMed Research International, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25821823/))
- Coacervates formed from mixed micelles of sodium lauroylsarcosinate and cocamidopropyl betaine with cationic guar gum exhibited a dense porous structure with high viscoelastic modulus under strong electrostatic interactions, and a looser mesh structure with lower viscoelasticity and enhanced skin adsorption under weakened interactions. ([Soft Matter, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38980096/))
- The cytotoxic effect of sodium lauryl sulphate on normal human keratinocytes was significantly decreased when combined with cocamidopropyl betaine, Tween 20, and Tween 80 at concentrations well below the critical micelle concentration. ([Skin Pharmacology and Applied Skin Physiology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12677096/))
- 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/))
- Probiotic-derived lotion successfully reduced inflammatory acne lesion counts and erythema index comparably to 2.5% benzoyl peroxide in patients with mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris, while causing fewer side effects. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35384257/))
- Topical application of Lactobacillus plantarum-GMNL6 enhanced collagen synthesis and SPTSSA gene expression while reducing melanin synthesis, Staphylococcus aureus biofilm, and Cutibacterium acnes proliferation, leading to clinical improvements in skin moisture, color, spots, wrinkles, UV spots, and porphyrins in human volunteers. ([International Journal of Medical Sciences, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33526970/))
- Lactobacillus plantarum extracellular vesicles modulated extracellular matrix related gene expression in vitro and suppressed wrinkle formation and pigmentation in clinical trials. ([Current Issues in Molecular Biology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35723322/))
- Topical application of an aqueous gel containing 0.1% w/w naringenin demonstrated in vitro safety, significantly reduced UV-induced stratum corneum lipid peroxidation, and showed in vivo anti-inflammatory efficacy against methyl nicotinate-induced inflammation in human participants compared to a blank gel and untreated area, while chlorogenic acid, apigenin, and kaempferol displayed pro-oxidant profiles. ([Frontiers in Chemistry, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38831914/))
- Topical application of a naringenin-containing formulation protected hairless mice from ultraviolet B-induced skin damage by inhibiting edema, cytokine production, superoxide anion, and lipid hydroperoxides while maintaining antioxidant enzymes and glutathione levels. ([PloS One, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26741806/))
- Encapsulating naringenin, nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA), and kaempferol into nanostructured lipid carriers provided prolonged release, stability, and antioxidant protection against oxidative stress in human keratinocytes, with an NDGA and kaempferol mixture showing synergistic antioxidant effects. ([Pharmaceutics, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34959324/))

## What reviewers say

This cleanser is highly praised for its ability to effectively remove mineral sunscreen and makeup in a single step without stripping the skin’s natural moisture barrier. It is frequently recommended for individuals with sensitive, acne-prone, or mature skin who seek a gentle, hydrating, and non-irritating cleansing experience.

- Liked: Effective removal (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle on skin (often mentioned)
- Liked: Hydrating feel (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Minimal product (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Ingredient sensitivity (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Price concerns (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Slightly drying (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this cleanser as part of your AM and PM routine. Start using it daily to help clear your breakouts.
- Apply this cleanser as the first step in the morning and right after your pre-cleanser in the evening. Follow it with your toner and moisturizer.
- Gently massage a small amount of the cleanser onto your face using circular motions. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and pat dry.
- Apply the cleanser on slightly damp skin to help clean deeply and remove excess oil. This works best for oily skin types.
- Avoid the sensitive eye area during application. Do a patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/6a08416bd9315041c09c72f61cf27cc1.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Colorescience Barrier Pro 1-Step Cleanser one of the best fits for oily acne-prone skin?

This cleanser is one of the best fits for your oily acne-prone skin because it uses sodium lauroyl sarcosinate and cocamidopropyl betaine to thoroughly clean pores and manage oil. It also features glycerin and propanediol to keep your skin hydrated, while lactobacillus ferment and prickly pear extract help calm breakouts with a very low risk of irritation.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37699769/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37990616/)

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

Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate and Cocamidopropyl Betaine make this cleanser a great fit for your oily, acne-prone skin by cleaning pores effectively and balancing oil. Glycerin and Propanediol help keep your skin hydrated while it cleans, and Lactobacillus Ferment provides gentle soothing benefits without irritation.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37699769/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37990616/)

### What does Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate do for oily acne-prone skin?

Sodium lauroyl sarcosinate is a cleansing ingredient that helps wash away excess oil, but it may decrease ceramides and alter the skin microbiome on oily, acne-prone skin. Because of this, an oily, acne-prone skin cleanser needs gentle surfactants and moisturizing ingredients that clean the skin without weakening its barrier or stripping away healthy lipids.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37990616/), [Dermatologic Therapy, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14728695/)

### What does Cocamidopropyl Betaine do for oily acne-prone skin?

Cocamidopropyl betaine is a cleansing ingredient that helps wash away dirt and excess oil from oily, acne-prone skin, though it may occasionally cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some people. This type of skin needs gentle cleansers and oil-reducing ingredients that clear pores while keeping the skin barrier healthy and calm.

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

This cleanser fits in your morning and evening routine as the first cleansing step, or as the second step in the evening after your makeup remover. It uses sodium lauroyl sarcosinate and cocamidopropyl betaine to effectively clean pores and balance oil to address blemishes, while glycerin and propanediol maintain hydration without irritation.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32239984/), [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37699769/)

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

You can use this cleanser in the same routine as retinol by applying it first to clean your skin before you put on your retinol treatment. This cleanser is a great fit for your oily acne-prone skin because it cleans deep into pores and helps manage oil without causing irritation, keeping your face calm and smooth.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37990616/)

### How often should I use this cleanser?

This cleanser fits oily acne-prone skin exceptionally well and can be used twice daily in your morning and evening routines. It gently clears pores and balances oil without causing irritation, while glycerin helps keep your skin hydrated.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37990616/), [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37699769/)

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

This cleanser is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for your oily acne-prone skin, as it features ingredients that offer effective pore cleansing and seboregulation. It is also safe and soothing for your skin, with no risk of irritation.

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

You can use this cleanser on your body, but you should use caution around the thin skin near your eyes since it is primarily formulated for the face. Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate and Cocamidopropyl Betaine effectively clean and balance oil without causing irritation.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37990616/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for oily acne-prone skin

- [IS Clinical Cleansing Complex](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/is-clinical/cleansing-complex/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $49.00 at Amazon
- [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $28.08 at Amazon
- [Pyunkang Yul Calming Low pH Foaming Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/pyunkang-yul/calming-low-ph-foaming-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — $15.99 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- 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
- SPF: [make p:rem UV Defense Me Blue Ray Sun Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/make-p-rem/uv-defense-me-blue-ray-sun-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $25.99 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Water, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Glycerin, Methyl Glucose Caprate, Caprylate, Sodium Chloride, Cocamidopropylamine Oxide, Glycereth-18 Ethylhexanoate, Propanediol, Glycereth-18, Lactobacillus Ferment, Sorbeth-230 Tetraoleate, Decyl Glucoside, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Citric Acid, Sorbitan Laurate, Grapefruit Fruit Extract, Opuntia Ficus-Indica Stem Extract, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate, Phenoxyethanol
## 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/colorescience/barrier-pro-1-step-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/colorescience/barrier-pro-1-step-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
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