# Neutrogena Deep Clean Invigorating Foaming Scrub for combination skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/neutrogena/deep-clean-invigorating-foaming-scrub/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 United States.

Brand: [Neutrogena](https://lovi.care/skincare/brands/neutrogena)
Category: [Exfoliants](https://lovi.care/skincare/best/exfoliators)

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 exfoliants fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate exfoliation for your combination skin due to cellulose and microcrystalline cellulose, which aid in physical exfoliation and help manage oily shine. Glycerin provides humectant action, balancing cleansing with hydration.
- The formula provides general cleansing benefits with Glycerin and Sodium Laureth Sulfate, supporting your combination skin's needs for oil control and hydration.
- The product is safe for your combination skin, as it lacks harsh ingredients and includes soothing components like glycerin, posing no risk of irritation.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/neutrogena/deep-clean-invigorating-foaming-scrub/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/neutrogena/deep-clean-invigorating-foaming-scrub/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/neutrogena/deep-clean-invigorating-foaming-scrub/for/combination-skin): Average (this page)
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/neutrogena/deep-clean-invigorating-foaming-scrub/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/neutrogena/deep-clean-invigorating-foaming-scrub/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/neutrogena/deep-clean-invigorating-foaming-scrub/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/neutrogena/deep-clean-invigorating-foaming-scrub/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/neutrogena/deep-clean-invigorating-foaming-scrub/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Low
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/neutrogena/deep-clean-invigorating-foaming-scrub/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Salicylic Acid, Menthol, Glycerin, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Microbeads

## What the research says

- Bacterial cellulose membranes with and without glycerin showed good skin compatibility and no barrier disruption in human subjects compared to a negative control, with glycerin-containing membranes additionally providing a statistically significant skin moisturizing effect (p=0.044). ([European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23973717/))
- 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/))
- Bacterial cellulose masks incorporated with vegetable extract increased skin hydration by 76% in 75% of volunteers, while propolis extract decreased hydration by 32.6% in 80% of volunteers, demonstrating effectiveness for skincare applications. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28963772/))
- 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/))
- Coadministration of 40% topical L-menthol with 10% trans-cinnamaldehyde reduced spontaneous pain intensity, neurogenic inflammation, primary and secondary mechanical hyperalgesia, and heat hyperalgesia, but not cold hyperalgesia, in 14 healthy volunteers. ([The Journal of Pain, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27260636/))
- Topical application of menthol-based cooling gel decreased intramuscular temperature by 1.9 °C and increased cutaneous blood flow by 0.3 ml/min in healthy males compared to placebo gel. ([International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30038834/))
- Cooling skin temperature or applying topical menthol reduced histamine-induced itch intensity and flare diameters in healthy male volunteers. ([Neuroscience Letters, 1995](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7624016/))
- 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 product is highly praised for its refreshing, cooling sensation and effective deep cleansing that leaves oily and combination skin feeling smooth and radiant. Users with sensitive or dry skin conditions report that frequent use can lead to over-drying, redness, and irritation.

- Liked: Effective deep cleaning (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Leaves skin smooth (often mentioned)
- Liked: Refreshing cooling sensation (often mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle daily exfoliation (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Causes dryness (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Harsh ingredients (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Irritating if overused (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this exfoliant product in your PM routine starting once a week, then increase frequency carefully if your skin feels fine.
- Apply this exfoliant step after cleansing and toner, but right before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the exfoliant into your skin and wait a minute before layering.
- Apply the exfoliant to clean, dry skin to help control your oily shine comfortably.
- Avoid the eye area and do a patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/028e5e793422a3b665c02ff502cf5a68.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does the Deep Clean Invigorating Foaming Scrub work for combination skin?

Neutrogena Deep Clean Invigorating Foaming Scrub works for combination skin by offering moderate exfoliation and oil control while glycerin balances cleansing with hydration. It is safe for this skin type, though products that fit combination skin better need to effectively balance oil production and maintain hydration with high-quality ingredients, address both oily and dry areas, and pose no risk of irritation.
Sources: [European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23973717/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Which ingredients make this exfoliant a good fit for combination skin?

Salicylic acid, cellulose, and glycerin make this exfoliant a good fit by providing physical exfoliation, helping manage oily shine, and balancing cleansing with hydration. Combination skin of this type needs products that are exceptionally safe, effectively balance oil production, and maintain hydration with barrier-repairing ingredients to address both oily and dry areas.
Sources: [European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23973717/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What does Salicylic Acid do for combination skin?

Salicylic acid helps clear clogged pores and balance oily areas while remaining gentle enough for dry spots on combination skin. It reduces breakouts and oiliness effectively with a low likelihood of irritation.
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 Menthol do for combination skin?

Menthol helps cool combination skin and may calm itchy feelings. It gives a refreshing sensation, but because it can sometimes dry out certain areas, it is unlikely to suit flaky or sensitive spots without extra moisture.
Sources: [Neuroscience Letters, 1995](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7624016/), [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38345103/)

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

This exfoliant fits into a combination skin routine once a week to help manage oily shine while providing moderate exfoliation. To work better for this skin, an exfoliant of this type needs gentle physical and chemical exfoliators combined with hydrating ingredients like glycerin.

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

You should use this exfoliant on a different day or at a different time than your retinol to keep your skin from becoming too dry or irritated. To fit combination skin well, an exfoliant of this type needs gentle exfoliating ingredients alongside hydrating components that keep the skin soft and balanced without causing irritation.
Sources: [European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23973717/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### How often should I use this exfoliant?

Start by using this exfoliant once a week, and if your combination skin tolerates it well and shows good results, you can carefully use it more often. A product of this type needs gentle exfoliating ingredients and hydrating components to manage oily shine while keeping your skin balanced and smooth.

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

This exfoliant is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts on combination skin. The formula helps manage oily shine while glycerol helps keep skin hydrated, though it still needs a gentle cleanser and non-drying ingredients to fully care for this skin type without causing dryness.
Sources: [European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23973717/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for combination skin

- [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — $15.97 at Amazon
- [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Low pH Gel Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-low-ph-gel-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — $13.40 at Amazon
- [Eminence Organic Skin Care Clear Skin Probiotic Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/eminence-organic-skin-care/clear-skin-probiotic-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — $34.00 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — $28.08 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/combination-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/combination-skin) — Superior fit — $18.99 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Cellulose, Lauryl Glucoside, Acrylates C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Phenoxyethanol, Synthetic Wax, Methylparaben, Sodium Hydroxide, Menthol, Disodium Edta, Polyquaternium-7, Sodium Benzotriazolyl Butylphenol Sulfonate, Ultramarines, Blue 1
## 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/deep-clean-invigorating-foaming-scrub/for/combination-skin (this page)
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/neutrogena/deep-clean-invigorating-foaming-scrub/for/combination-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/neutrogena/deep-clean-invigorating-foaming-scrub/for/combination-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/neutrogena/deep-clean-invigorating-foaming-scrub/for/combination-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/neutrogena/deep-clean-invigorating-foaming-scrub/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/neutrogena/deep-clean-invigorating-foaming-scrub/for/combination-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/neutrogena/deep-clean-invigorating-foaming-scrub/for/combination-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/neutrogena/deep-clean-invigorating-foaming-scrub/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/neutrogena/deep-clean-invigorating-foaming-scrub/for/combination-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/neutrogena/deep-clean-invigorating-foaming-scrub/for/combination-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/neutrogena/deep-clean-invigorating-foaming-scrub/for/combination-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/neutrogena/deep-clean-invigorating-foaming-scrub/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/neutrogena/deep-clean-invigorating-foaming-scrub/for/combination-skin