# SkinCeuticals LHA Cleanser Gel for acne-prone skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for acne-prone skin.**
Combination Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: High · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skinceuticals/lha-cleanser-gel/for/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: [SkinCeuticals](https://lovi.care/skincare/brands/skinceuticals)
Category: [Cleansers](https://lovi.care/skincare/best/cleansers)

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

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

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate exfoliation for your acne and blemishes due to the presence of glycolic acid and salicylic acid, which effectively cleanse and decongest pores for your combination skin.
- The formulation is highly suitable for combination skin, with keratolytic action and seboregulation provided by glycolic acid and salicylic acid, helping to manage oiliness and texture.
- The safety profile is excellent, with no risks of irritation for your acne-prone skin due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skinceuticals/lha-cleanser-gel/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skinceuticals/lha-cleanser-gel/for/dry-skin): Caution
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skinceuticals/lha-cleanser-gel/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skinceuticals/lha-cleanser-gel/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skinceuticals/lha-cleanser-gel/for/acne-prone-skin): Average (this page)
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skinceuticals/lha-cleanser-gel/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skinceuticals/lha-cleanser-gel/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skinceuticals/lha-cleanser-gel/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Caution
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skinceuticals/lha-cleanser-gel/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Lipo Hydroxy Acid, Glycolic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Capryloyl Salicylic Acid, Glycerin

## What the research says

- 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/))
- Glycolic acid, salicylic acid, gluconolactone, and licochalcone A combined with 0.1% adapalene showed no hindrance compared to adapalene monotherapy and provided benefits in reducing complications in 25 subjects with mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30858720/))
- 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/))
- Daily treatment with a facial serum containing multiple acids reduced post-inflammatory hyperchromia lesion grade and number by 29.4% at 56 days, and decreased skin oiliness by 30.7% at 7 days in Brazilian patients with acne vulgaris. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33617668/))
- Capryloyl salicylic acid peel reduced fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation comparably to glycolic acid peel in 44 female volunteers, with no statistically significant differences between the two treatments. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19146601/))
- Combining a salicylic acid and lipohydroxy acid facial serum and mask improved closed comedones and acne severity significantly more than serum alone in adults with acne over 8 weeks, with no adverse reactions reported. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36999489/))
- Parity was demonstrated between an OTC BPO 5.5% formulation with lipohydroxy acid and tretinoin cream 0.025% versus prescription clindamycin 1%-BPO 5% gel and tretinoin cream 0.025% in participants with mild to moderate acne vulgaris at 12 weeks. ([Cutis, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22838094/))
- Repeated short-contact 70% glycolic acid peels provided superior results in atrophic acne scars compared to daily low-strength glycolic acid cream or placebo in 58 women over 24 weeks. ([International Journal of Dermatology, 2000](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11095203/))
- Serial glycolic acid peels combined with a modified Kligman formula significantly reduced facial PIH severity in Indian patients compared to the modified Kligman formula alone. ([Dermatologic Surgery, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28114204/))
- 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/))

## What reviewers say

This cleanser is widely celebrated by users with oily, acne-prone, and aging skin for its ability to deeply exfoliate and decongest pores using a blend of LHA, glycolic, and salicylic acids. While most users report clearer, smoother, and brighter skin, a minority find it too drying or experience an initial "purge" of breakouts.

- Liked: Deeply exfoliates (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Clears acne (often mentioned)
- Liked: Controls oil (often mentioned)
- Liked: Refines texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Refreshing feel (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Can be drying (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: High price point (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Causes breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Poor packaging (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Could be used as part of your AM and PM routine. Start using it 3 times a week and build up to daily use if your skin tolerates it.
- This cleanser is the first step in your morning routine and the second step after your pre-cleanser in the evening. Always follow up with a toner and moisturizer .
- Gently massage a small amount of the cleanser onto your face in circular motions. Avoid harsh rubbing to keep your skin calm.
- Apply the cleanser on slightly damp skin to help it work effectively against breakouts. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water .
- Avoid the immediate eye area and do a patch test before your first use to check for any sensitivity.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/6a08416bd9315041c09c72f61cf27cc1.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does SkinCeuticals LHA Cleanser Gel work for acne-prone skin?

SkinCeuticals LHA Cleanser Gel works as an average fit for acne-prone skin, offering moderate exfoliation to help clear and decongest pores. It has a very safe formula with no irritation risks, but cleansers that rate higher for this skin need a balanced mix of hydrating and soothing ingredients like aloe and glycerin to prevent over-drying while keeping the skin clear.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/), [BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/)

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

This cleanser works for acne-prone skin because it contains glycolic acid, salicylic acid, capryloyl salicylic acid, and Lipo Hydroxy Acid, which gently exfoliate and clear out pores. A cleanser for this skin needs soothing, hydrating ingredients like glycerin alongside gentle cleansing agents to prevent over-drying and keep the skin balanced.
Sources: [BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30858720/)

### What does Lipo Hydroxy Acid do for acne-prone skin?

Lipo Hydroxy Acid helps clear clogged pores and gently removes dead skin cells that cause breakouts. Because it works slowly on the surface, it is unlikely to irritate sensitive, oily skin.

### What does Glycolic Acid do for acne-prone skin?

Glycolic acid helps clear acne-prone skin by reducing pimples and breakouts. It also helps fade dark spots left behind by acne and controls skin oiliness, with very few side effects when used properly.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33617668/), [Dermatologic Surgery, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24447110/)

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

This cleanser goes in your morning and evening routine as the cleansing step before your toner, moisturizer, and other products. For acne-prone skin, this product type needs exfoliating and pore-clearing ingredients like glycolic acid and salicylic acid to help manage oiliness and texture.

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

You can use this cleanser with retinol, provided your skin is not overly sensitive, by applying it first to cleanse and clear pores before using your retinol treatment. This product helps manage oiliness and texture, though acne-prone skin often does better with a gentle, barrier-restoring cleanser and added soothing ingredients to prevent dryness.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37276158/)

### How often should I use this cleanser?

You can use this cleanser daily, but because it contains exfoliating acids, start by using it once a week to see how your skin reacts. If your skin tolerates it well and you see good results, you can carefully use it more often. An acne-prone skin cleanser of this type needs pore-clearing acids like glycolic and salicylic acid to help manage oiliness and texture.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30858720/), [BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/)

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

It is unlikely to cause irritation or breakouts for your acne-prone skin due to the absence of harsh ingredients, though it can feel moderately drying. To care for this skin properly, products need gentle exfoliating ingredients like salicylic acid and glycolic acid to clear pores alongside soothing ingredients to prevent dryness.
Sources: [BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30858720/)

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

SkinCeuticals LHA Cleanser Gel can be used on the body, but it is best avoided directly around the eyes because the skin there is much thinner. This cleanser offers moderate exfoliation and manages oiliness with glycolic acid and salicylic acid, though acne-prone skin often does better with a targeted body wash and a dedicated eye product that respects thin skin.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/), [BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/)

### Is it fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for acne-prone skin

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

## Pairs well with

- Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $15.60 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Some By Mi Yuja Niacin Brightening Moisture Gel Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/some-by-mi/yuja-niacin-brightening-moisture-gel-cream/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $15.50 at Amazon
- SPF: [d'Alba Piedmont Waterfull Mild Sunscreen](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/d-alba/piedmont-waterfull-mild-sunscreen/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $15.99 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Water, Coco-Betaine, Propylene Glycol, Peg-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate, Sorbitol, Glycerin, Glycolic Acid, Triethanolamine, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Sodium Chloride, Disteareth-100 Ipdi, Salicylic Acid, Capryloyl Salicylic Acid, Menthol, Disodium Edta, Steareth-100
## 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/skinceuticals/lha-cleanser-gel/for/acne-prone-skin (this page)
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/skinceuticals/lha-cleanser-gel/for/acne-prone-skin
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