# Dermalogica Clear Start Breakout Clearing Foaming Wash for dry sensitive skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/dermalogica/clear-start-breakout-clearing-foaming-wash/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: [Dermalogica](https://lovi.care/skincare/brands/dermalogica)
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 excellent cleansing for acne-prone skin as salicylic acid and melaleuca alternifolia tree oil exfoliate and reduce acne lesions, but this combination is highly unsuitable for your dry and sensitive skin due to its overly drying and stripping nature.
- While the formula is free of harsh ingredients and poses no immediate irritation risk, the potent actives can exacerbate dryness and flakiness, making it a poor choice for your primary goal.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/dermalogica/clear-start-breakout-clearing-foaming-wash/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/dermalogica/clear-start-breakout-clearing-foaming-wash/for/dry-skin): Warning
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/dermalogica/clear-start-breakout-clearing-foaming-wash/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/dermalogica/clear-start-breakout-clearing-foaming-wash/for/sensitive-skin): Low
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/dermalogica/clear-start-breakout-clearing-foaming-wash/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/dermalogica/clear-start-breakout-clearing-foaming-wash/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/dermalogica/clear-start-breakout-clearing-foaming-wash/for/mature-skin): Low
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/dermalogica/clear-start-breakout-clearing-foaming-wash/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Caution (this page)
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/dermalogica/clear-start-breakout-clearing-foaming-wash/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Superior

## Key ingredients

Salicylic Acid, Melaleuca Alternifolia Tree Oil Leaf, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Peel Oil, Lavandula Angustifolia Oil Lavender Oil, Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract Rhizome Licorice Root Extract Rhizome

## 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 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/))
- Tea tree oil nanoemulsion containing adapalene gel demonstrated significantly greater reductions in total, inflammatory, and non-inflammatory acne lesions as well as acne severity index compared to adapalene marketed gel in 100 patients with acne vulgaris over 12 weeks. ([Archives of Dermatological Research, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34251536/))
- Topical 5% tea tree oil gel significantly improved total acne lesions and acne severity index compared to placebo in 60 patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris, showing 3.55 times and 5.75 times greater efficacy respectively. ([Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17314442/))
- A novel D-limonene and Gelucire 44/12 based microemulsion formulated with Labrasol and Labrafil M 1944 CS showed high stability, optical transparency, nanometric globule size, and a safe in vivo skin profile on mice ear skin. ([Advanced Pharmaceutical Bulletin, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33880349/))
- Polysaccharide-based O/W emulsions incorporated with lavender essential oil applied to cellulosic support are non-irritating, provide softness and moisturizing effects, and are safe for topical patch applications. ([International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34547316/))
- Gellan gum hydrogel films co-encapsulating ofloxacin with tea tree or lavender oil achieved 98% wound contraction and completely healed epidermis in rats after ten days of treatment compared to baseline. ([International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33130262/))
- Topical application of lavender oil significantly promoted wound contraction, collagen synthesis, and fibroblast differentiation with up-regulation of TGF-beta in a rat model compared to control. ([BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27229681/))
- Combining 755 nm alexandrite laser with topical licorice gel significantly reduces terminal hair counts compared to alexandrite laser with placebo in women with idiopathic hirsutism. ([Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26273313/))
- Licochalcone A activated Nrf2 signaling, elevated cytoprotective enzymes, increased the reduced-to-oxidized glutathione ratio, and decreased reactive oxygen species in human fibroblasts and neutrophils, while a LicA-rich licorice extract lowered UVA-induced oxidative processes in vivo. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25381913/))
- Bioactive glycyrrhizic acid and oxymatrine ionic liquid self-assembled nanomicelles significantly promoted the transdermal permeation, subcutaneous retention, and anti-photoaging efficacy of palmitoyl pentapeptide-4 in cellular and animal models compared to unformulated peptide. ([Advanced Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39783908/))

## What reviewers say

This foaming wash is widely praised for effectively clearing hormonal and teenage acne on both the face and body without stripping the skin of moisture. While most users find it gentle and refreshing, a minority experience dryness or irritation, and some note a "purging" phase before seeing results. This summary is based on a very large amount of data and should definitely be taken into account.

- Liked: Clears acne (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle and non-drying (often mentioned)
- Liked: Improves texture (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Pleasant scent (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Versatile for body (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Price point (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Can be drying (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Packaging issues (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Purging period (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Skin irritation (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 Dermalogica Clear Start Breakout Clearing Foaming Wash for dry sensitive skin?

Lovi advises caution because the salicylic acid and tea tree oil in this cleanser are overly drying and stripping for dry sensitive skin. While it poses no immediate irritation risk, these potent ingredients may worsen dryness and flakiness. Cleansers for dry sensitive skin need hydrating and barrier-restoring ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or soothing agents to maintain moisture and protect the skin barrier.
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/)

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

Salicylic acid and tea tree oil make this cleanser a poor fit because they are overly drying and stripping for dry sensitive skin. A cleanser for this skin needs hydrating and barrier-restoring ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid to maintain moisture and protect the skin barrier.
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/)

### 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 Tea Tree Oil do for dry sensitive skin?

Tea tree oil is generally a poor fit for dry sensitive skin because it can easily cause irritation, redness, and peeling on delicate barriers. This skin type needs gentle, soothing hydrators and protective ingredients that restore moisture without causing stinging or dryness.
Sources: [Food and Chemical Toxicology, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16243420/)

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

This cleanser is a poor match for dry sensitive skin because its strong exfoliants are overly drying and stripping. To care for this skin type, a cleanser needs gentle, hydrating ingredients and mild formulas that protect natural moisture instead.

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

Using this cleanser with retinol is a poor match for your dry sensitive skin because salicylic acid and tea tree oil are overly drying and stripping, which may worsen flakiness. A cleanser for this skin needs gentle, hydrating ingredients and barrier-restoring ceramides to keep skin soft and calm while using strong treatments.

### How often should I use this cleanser?

This cleanser is a poor match for your dry sensitive skin because its potent exfoliating ingredients can easily worsen dryness and flakiness. To care for this skin type properly, a cleanser needs gentle, hydrating ingredients that clean without stripping away essential moisture.

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

This cleanser is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts, but it may cause purging or worsen dryness and flakiness on dry sensitive skin due to its salicylic acid and tea tree oil. A cleanser for this skin needs gentle, hydrating ingredients and mild cleansing agents that clean without stripping away natural moisture.
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?

This cleanser is likely too drying for the thin skin around the eyes, but it may be used on the body for acne. A cleanser for dry sensitive skin needs gentle, hydrating ingredients that clean without stripping away natural moisture.
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: $19.50 (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0006B78OO?tag=lovi-care-web-product-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 4 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Salicylic Acid, Water, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate, Acrylates Beheneth-25 Methacrylate Copolymer, Polysorbate-20, Melaleuca Alternifolia Tree Oil Leaf, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Peel Oil, Lavandula Angustifolia Oil Lavender Oil, Oleanolic Acid, Butylene Glycol, Enantia Chlorantha Bark Extract, Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate, Spiraea Ulmaria Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Porphyra Umbilicalis Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract Rhizome Licorice Root Extract Rhizome, Sodium Hydroxide, Ethylhexylglycerin, 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/dermalogica/clear-start-breakout-clearing-foaming-wash/for/dry-sensitive-skin (this page)
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/dermalogica/clear-start-breakout-clearing-foaming-wash/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/dermalogica/clear-start-breakout-clearing-foaming-wash/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/dermalogica/clear-start-breakout-clearing-foaming-wash/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/dermalogica/clear-start-breakout-clearing-foaming-wash/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/dermalogica/clear-start-breakout-clearing-foaming-wash/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/dermalogica/clear-start-breakout-clearing-foaming-wash/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/dermalogica/clear-start-breakout-clearing-foaming-wash/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/dermalogica/clear-start-breakout-clearing-foaming-wash/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/dermalogica/clear-start-breakout-clearing-foaming-wash/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/dermalogica/clear-start-breakout-clearing-foaming-wash/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/dermalogica/clear-start-breakout-clearing-foaming-wash/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/dermalogica/clear-start-breakout-clearing-foaming-wash/for/dry-sensitive-skin