# Paula's Choice Pore Normalizing Cleanser for combination skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/paula-s-choice/pore-normalizing-cleanser/for/combination-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: [Paula's Choice](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/brands/paula-s-choice)
Category: [Cleansers](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/best/cleansers)

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 cleansers fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate cleansing for your combination skin, as sodium laureth sulfate and sodium lauroyl sarcosinate effectively remove impurities, while glycerin provides humectant action to balance oiliness. The formula lacks specialized ingredients for pore normalization, which is a key concern for your oily shine.
- Allantoin and panthenol offer soothing benefits, contributing to a gentle cleansing experience without irritation for your combination skin.
- The safety profile is excellent, with no harsh ingredients and the inclusion of soothing components suitable for sensitive skin.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/paula-s-choice/pore-normalizing-cleanser/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/paula-s-choice/pore-normalizing-cleanser/for/dry-skin): Caution
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/paula-s-choice/pore-normalizing-cleanser/for/combination-skin): Average (this page)
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/paula-s-choice/pore-normalizing-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin): Low
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/paula-s-choice/pore-normalizing-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/paula-s-choice/pore-normalizing-cleanser/for/dark-spots): Low
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/paula-s-choice/pore-normalizing-cleanser/for/mature-skin): Low
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/paula-s-choice/pore-normalizing-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Caution
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/paula-s-choice/pore-normalizing-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Glycerin, Allantoin, Panthenol

## What the research says

- 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/))
- Topical dexpanthenol acts as a moisturizer, improves stratum corneum hydration, accelerates wound healing and epidermal regeneration, reduces erythema, and improves symptoms of skin irritation compared to vehicle or no pretreatment. ([American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/))
- A new topical panthenol-containing emollient significantly improved transepidermal water loss reduction, stratum corneum hydration, and intercellular lipid lamellae length compared with control in healthy subjects without negatively impacting bacterial viability. ([The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/))
- A topical gel containing chitosan, chlorhexidine, allantoin, and dexpanthenol significantly reduced postoperative pain, trismus, swelling, and analgesic consumption, while improving wound healing after third molar surgery compared to a placebo. ([Medicina Oral, Patologia Oral Y Cirugia Bucal, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32683390/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- Topical gel containing chitosan, 0.2% chlorhexidine, allantoin and dexpanthenol did not improve postoperative comfort regarding swelling and pain, but improved the wound's aesthetic appearance following impacted lower third molar extraction compared to no gel. ([Medicina Oral, Patologia Oral Y Cirugia Bucal, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27475700/))
- An overnight patch containing Allium cepa extract and allantoin safely promotes scar healing after dermatologic surgery, resulting in significantly greater reductions in observer- and patient-assessed POSAS scores compared to no treatment. ([Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29948103/))
- Prophylactic application of a topical scar gel containing Allium cepae extract, allantoin, and heparin significantly improves patient-assessed scar color, stiffness, and irregularity compared to no treatment in women following a cesarean section. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24509969/))
- Moisturizer containing 5% panthenol, madecassoside, and copper-zinc-manganese decreased adverse reactions and downtime after ablative fractional carbon dioxide laser resurfacing with comparable efficacy to 0.02% triamcinolone acetonide cream in 20 subjects. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30945430/))
- Topical dexpanthenol formulated in lipophilic vehicles improved stratum corneum hydration and reduced transepidermal water loss compared to vehicle control in humans. ([Arzneimittel-Forschung, 2000](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10965426/))
- Hyaluronic acid, hyaluronic acid plus dexpanthenol, and isotonic saline nasal sprays all significantly improved dry nose symptoms over four weeks in 240 patients, with hyaluronic acid plus dexpanthenol providing superior nasal moisturisation compared to the other two. ([Auris, Nasus, Larynx, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32067777/))

## What reviewers say

Users with oily and acne-prone skin frequently praise this gel cleanser for effectively clearing breakouts and controlling sebum without stripping the moisture barrier. While most find it gentle and refreshing, a minority of users with combination or sensitive skin experienced dryness, tightness, or purging after use.

- Liked: Effective acne control (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle & non-stripping (often mentioned)
- Liked: Oil balancing (often mentioned)
- Liked: Makeup removal (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Pleasant texture (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Drying for some (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Breakouts/Purging (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Packaging issues (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Skin irritation (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant scent (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this cleanser AM and PM as part of your daily routine. Start 3×/week and build up to daily use if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply this cleanser as the very first step in your morning routine and right after your pre-cleanser in the evening.
- Gently massage a small amount of cleanser onto your skin using circular motions. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
- For the best results , apply the cleanser directly onto slightly damp skin to help lift away excess oil.
- 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 Paula's Choice Pore Normalizing Cleanser work for combination skin?

Paula's Choice Pore Normalizing Cleanser works reasonably well for combination skin, effectively washing away impurities and balancing oiliness while keeping the face calm and comfortable. However, because it lacks specialized ingredients for pore normalization, a cleanser for this skin needs pore-clarifying ingredients alongside soothing and hydrating agents to balance oil production and maintain moisture.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/)

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

Glycerin, allantoin, and panthenol help make this cleanser a good fit by balancing oiliness and soothing the skin without causing irritation. To work best for combination skin, a cleanser of this type needs ingredients that effectively balance oil production, maintain hydration for oily shine, and support the skin barrier while remaining exceptionally safe and non-irritating.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/)

### What does Sodium Laureth Sulfate do for combination skin?

Sodium laureth sulfate is a cleansing ingredient that may leave combination skin feeling dry and can disrupt skin moisture if not balanced properly. A product of this type needs milder cleansing agents, moisturizing ingredients, and a balanced pH to keep the skin barrier calm and hydrated.
Sources: [International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42617898/), [Food and Chemical Toxicology, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11278060/)

### What does Cocamidopropyl Betaine do for combination skin?

Cocamidopropyl Betaine helps clean combination skin without stripping natural moisture, making it a gentle option for daily use. It is widely used in cleansers to lift away excess oil while keeping dry areas comfortable.

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

This cleanser works for your combination skin both morning and night, and helps balance oiliness while gently soothing without irritation. A product of this type for combination skin needs specialized ingredients that target pore normalization to properly handle oily shine.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/)

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

You can use this cleanser with BHA by washing your face with the cleanser first and applying your BHA treatment afterwards. This product is safe and gentle for your skin, though combination skin with oily shine works best with a cleanser that also includes specialized ingredients to help normalize pores.

### How often should I use this cleanser?

You can use this cleanser twice a day in your morning and evening routine to wash your combination skin. It gently removes impurities while helping balance oiliness, but a product of this type for your skin needs specialized pore-normalizing ingredients to properly handle your oily shine.

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

This cleanser is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts, as reviewers report only low risks for these issues and the formula features gentle ingredients. However, because it lacks specialized ingredients for pore normalization, combination skin with oily shine needs a product that includes targeted pore-clearing agents and oil-balancing components.

### 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 of the eyes. Its gentle ingredients like glycerin and panthenol help keep skin hydrated and calm, making it unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/), [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/)

### Is this cleanser 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/sa/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 36.33 at Amazon
- [Eminence Organic Skin Care Clear Skin Probiotic Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/eminence-organic-skin-care/clear-skin-probiotic-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 198.55 at Amazon
- [Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/cetaphil/daily-facial-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — High fit — SAR 120.08 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 166.90 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/combination-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 39.70 at Amazon
- SPF: [CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion](https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/cerave/am-facial-moisturizing-lotion-spf-30/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — SAR 46.95 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.sa: SAR 245.00 (https://www.amazon.sa/dp/B07R74CPPY?tag=lovisa02-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Glycerin, Sodium Chloride, Peg-200 Hydrogenated Glyceryl Palmate, Peg-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, Sodium Benzoate, Citric Acid, Allantoin, Panthenol, Chamomilla Recutita Flower Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Sodium Hydroxide, Tetrasodium Edta, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin
## 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/paula-s-choice/pore-normalizing-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/pore-normalizing-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/paula-s-choice/pore-normalizing-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/pore-normalizing-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/paula-s-choice/pore-normalizing-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/paula-s-choice/pore-normalizing-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/paula-s-choice/pore-normalizing-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/paula-s-choice/pore-normalizing-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/paula-s-choice/pore-normalizing-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/paula-s-choice/pore-normalizing-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/paula-s-choice/pore-normalizing-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/paula-s-choice/pore-normalizing-cleanser/for/combination-skin (this page)
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/pore-normalizing-cleanser/for/combination-skin