# Dr. Barbara Sturm Enzyme Cleanser for oily skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/dr-barbara-sturm/enzyme-cleanser/for/oily-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for Saudi Arabia.

Brand: [Dr. Barbara Sturm](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/brands/dr-barbara-sturm)
Category: [Exfoliants](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/best/exfoliators)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with oily skin: shine, enlarged pores, blackheads, and blemishes. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

A great choice for oily skin; a few products fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Offers excellent cleansing for your oily skin due to subtilisin and lipase, which effectively exfoliate and decongest pores by breaking down impurities and excess sebum.
- Ascorbic acid further aids in brightening and providing antioxidant benefits, complementing the enzymatic exfoliation for smoother, clearer skin.
- The formula is safe for your skin, with no reported irritation risks and the inclusion of soothing ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/dr-barbara-sturm/enzyme-cleanser/for/oily-skin): High (this page)
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/dr-barbara-sturm/enzyme-cleanser/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/dr-barbara-sturm/enzyme-cleanser/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/dr-barbara-sturm/enzyme-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/dr-barbara-sturm/enzyme-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/dr-barbara-sturm/enzyme-cleanser/for/dark-spots): Superior
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/dr-barbara-sturm/enzyme-cleanser/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/dr-barbara-sturm/enzyme-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/dr-barbara-sturm/enzyme-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate, Ascorbic Acid, Subtilisin, Lipase, Cellulose

## What the research says

- A topical serum containing vitamin C, vitamin E, and raspberry leaf cell culture extract improved skin color, elasticity, radiance, smoothness, scaliness, and wrinkles compared to the untreated contralateral side in fifty female volunteers. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/))
- 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/))
- Topical application of 5% vitamin C cream significantly improved global clinical scores, increased skin microrelief density, and induced elastic tissue repair in photoaged skin compared to excipient control in healthy female volunteers. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12823436/))
- Ascorbic acid 2-glucoside gel significantly reduced gingival melanin pigmentation after 4 weeks compared to placebo in 73 subjects with symmetric pigmentation. ([Journal of Periodontology, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19186973/))
- Topical application of VC-IP cream twice daily for 8 weeks reduces periorbital wrinkles in female subjects compared to a placebo cream. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34910367/))
- Nanofibrillar cellulose dressing provides efficient wound healing comparable to polylactide-based copolymer dressings at skin graft donor sites in 24 patients, with significant improvements in observer scar thickness and vascularity and skin elasticity. ([Advances in Wound Care, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32117583/))
- AgNP-BC exhibited over 99% reduction in Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa with no cytotoxicity, allowing epidermal cell attachment and growth compared to unmodified bacterial cellulose. ([Carbohydrate Polymers, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24507345/))
- Cellulose acetate and soy protein hydrolysate nanofibrous dressings promote fibroblast proliferation in vitro and accelerate wound healing with reduced scar formation in vivo. ([Advanced Healthcare Materials, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29359866/))

## What reviewers say

This powder cleanser is highly praised for its ability to provide a deep yet gentle exfoliation, leaving skin feeling exceptionally smooth and refined. It is particularly effective for oily and combination skin types, helping to balance sebum and clear pores. However, users with dry or sensitive skin should use it with caution as it can cause dryness or tightness if applied too frequently.

- Liked: Smoother skin texture (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle deep clean (often mentioned)
- Liked: Ideal for oily/combo skin (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Long-lasting product (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Travel-friendly format (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Drying for dry skin (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: High price point (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Messy application (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Risk of irritation (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant smell (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your enzyme powder cleanser as part of your AM or PM weekly routine. Start using it 1x per week and increase to daily use if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply this enzyme powder cleanser in your routine after the regular cleanser and before the hydrating toner, serum, and moisturizer.
- Gently mix the enzyme powder cleanser with water in your hands to create a lather. Massage it softly over your face without rubbing .
- Apply the enzyme powder cleanser to clean, slightly damp skin for the best results .
- Avoid the sensitive eye area and do a patch test before your first use to ensure your skin is happy.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/2d8db6e67371d665a6a7736b5ed5d762.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Dr. Barbara Sturm Enzyme Cleanser a great fit for oily skin?

Dr. Barbara Sturm Enzyme Cleanser is a great fit for oily skin because the subtilisin and lipase in it effectively exfoliate and clear out pores by breaking down excess oil and impurities. Ascorbic acid also helps brighten and smooth your skin while offering antioxidant benefits, and the formula is safe with a low risk of irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/)

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

Subtilisin and lipase make this cleanser a great fit for your oily skin by breaking down excess oil and impurities to clear out pores. Ascorbic acid also helps brighten your skin, while soothing ingredients make the formula safe and unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23973717/)

### What does Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate do for oily skin?

Sodium lauroyl glutamate helps cleanse oily skin gently while keeping the skin barrier calm and comfortable. It causes minimal changes to skin oils compared to harsher cleansers, making it a very safe and low-irritation choice for daily use.
Sources: [Dermatology, 1997](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9187840/), [Toxicology Letters, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16996234/)

### What does Vitamin C do for oily skin?

Vitamin C helps brighten skin tone and smooth texture while providing antioxidant protection that prevents sebum oxidation. For oily skin, this type of product typically needs to be paired with oil-controlling or pore-clearing ingredients like salicylic acid or plant extracts.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2005](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18492184/)

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

This enzyme powder cleanser goes in your weekly routine, where exfoliating steps start at once a week and can be carefully used more often if your skin tolerates them well. For daily cleansing in the morning and evening, the routine uses a standard gentle cleanser.

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

You can use this enzyme powder cleanser alongside retinol by using the cleanser on your weekly routine day and avoiding retinol on that same evening to prevent irritation. Using exfoliating enzymes and retinol together can be too harsh, so alternating them keeps your skin calm and smooth.

### How often should I use this cleanser?

Start by using this enzyme powder once a week in your weekly routine. If your oily skin tolerates it well and shows good results, you can carefully use it more often.

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

This cleanser is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts on oily skin, as it contains enzymes that effectively clear away excess oil and impurities. It does not cause purging since it removes dead skin rather than speeding up cell turnover deep beneath the surface.

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for oily skin

- [Clinique Fresh Pressed Renewing Powder Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/clinique/fresh-pressed-renewing-powder-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — High fit — SAR 256.84 at Amazon
- [By Wishtrend Green Tea & Enzyme Powder Wash](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/by-wishtrend/green-tea-and-enzyme-powder-wash/for/oily-skin) — High fit — SAR 117.35 at Amazon
- [Fancl Deep Clear Washing Powder](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/fancl/deep-clear-washing-powder/for/oily-skin) — High fit — SAR 122.84 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 36.33 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 53.04 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 39.70 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.sa: SAR 658.00 (https://www.amazon.sa/dp/B07JQQX4D8?tag=lovisa02-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 5 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate, Talc, Cellulose, Maltodextrin, Water, Xanthan Gum, Ascorbic Acid, Subtilisin, Lipase
## 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/dr-barbara-sturm/enzyme-cleanser/for/oily-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/dr-barbara-sturm/enzyme-cleanser/for/oily-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/dr-barbara-sturm/enzyme-cleanser/for/oily-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/dr-barbara-sturm/enzyme-cleanser/for/oily-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/dr-barbara-sturm/enzyme-cleanser/for/oily-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/dr-barbara-sturm/enzyme-cleanser/for/oily-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/dr-barbara-sturm/enzyme-cleanser/for/oily-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/dr-barbara-sturm/enzyme-cleanser/for/oily-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/dr-barbara-sturm/enzyme-cleanser/for/oily-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/dr-barbara-sturm/enzyme-cleanser/for/oily-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/dr-barbara-sturm/enzyme-cleanser/for/oily-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/dr-barbara-sturm/enzyme-cleanser/for/oily-skin (this page)
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/dr-barbara-sturm/enzyme-cleanser/for/oily-skin