# Dermalogica Precleanse for oily acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/dermalogica/precleanse/for/oily-acne-prone-skin

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

Brand: [Dermalogica](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/brands/dermalogica)
Category: [Makeup removers](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/best/makeup-removers)

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

A great choice for oily acne-prone skin; a few pre-cleansers fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Highly suitable for your oily skin, this formula effectively dissolves makeup and impurities with caprylic capric triglyceride and apricot kernel oil, which are beneficial for managing oiliness and breakouts. Helianthus annuus seed oil further supports sebum balance without clogging pores, making it a good choice for your skin type.
- The cleansing oils in this product offer general cleansing benefits that support your concerns with acne, blemishes, and breakouts.
- This product has a favorable safety profile with no risks of irritation for your oily skin, as it lacks prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/dermalogica/precleanse/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/dermalogica/precleanse/for/dry-skin): High
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/dermalogica/precleanse/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/dermalogica/precleanse/for/sensitive-skin): Superior
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/dermalogica/precleanse/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/dermalogica/precleanse/for/dark-spots): Superior
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/dermalogica/precleanse/for/mature-skin): Superior
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/dermalogica/precleanse/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/dermalogica/precleanse/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High (this page)

## Key ingredients

Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Prunus Armeniaca Kernel Oil Apricot Kernel Oil, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil Sunflower Seed Oil, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Oil, Tocopherol

## What the research says

- Topical application of an emollient emulsion containing 15.0% caprylic/capric triglyceride doubled the amount of urocanic acid isomers and increased skin hydration with reduced transepidermal water loss in healthy subjects, though it did not prevent ultraviolet-induced urocanic acid isomerization. ([Life, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37109405/))
- Limonene protects immortalized human skin keratinocytes against UVB-induced photodamage and photoaging by increasing cell viability, inhibiting intracellular ROS generation, suppressing alpha-MSH secretion, and preventing depletion of tight junction proteins through activation of the Nrf2-dependent antioxidant defense system. ([Environmental Toxicology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36063024/))
- Topical application of Foeniculum vulgare compounds fenchone and limonene increased wound contraction and re-epithelialization in rats compared to untreated and sham control groups over 10 days. ([Biotechnic & Histochemistry, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28426256/))
- Cold pressed terpeneless Valencia orange oil completely inhibited Campylobacter jejuni and reduced cells attached to chicken skin by 1.5 to 2 logarithms compared to control, while showing variable inhibition against Campylobacter coli and Arcobacter spp. ([International Journal of Food Microbiology, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19070381/))
- Topical application of an antioxidant serum containing 15% ascorbic acid, 0.5% ferulic acid, and 1% tocopherol prevented particulate matter-induced degradation of extracellular matrix components, inflammation, and oxidative stress in the skin of 15 female volunteers compared to untreated controls. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40642809/))
- Dermatological products containing d-alpha tocopheryl acetate showed non-comedogenic potential with less than a 50% increase in microcomedones in 12 healthy male subjects compared to octyl palmitate. ([Contemporary Clinical Trials Communications, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34471722/))
- Topical application of an antioxidant mix containing 15% ascorbic acid, 0.5% ferulic acid, and 1% tocopherol prevented PM and UV-induced skin barrier perturbation, lipid peroxidation, inflammatory markers, MMP9 activation, and Type I collagen loss in 15 healthy females compared to untreated exposed skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38590207/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users widely praise this oil cleanser as an effective first step in a double-cleansing routine, noting its ability to melt away waterproof makeup and excess sebum without stripping the skin. It is generally celebrated for leaving skin soft and clean, though some users with sensitive skin or eyes report irritation due to the strong essential oil fragrance.

- Liked: Dissolves makeup (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Leaves skin soft (often mentioned)
- Disliked: High price point (often mentioned)
- Liked: Effective for oily (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Spa-like experience (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Eye irritation (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Packaging issues (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Little goes long (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Caused breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Strong fragrance (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this makeup remover PM as the first step of your evening routine to clear away impurities. Start by using it 3×/week before working up to daily use if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply this makeup remover before your regular cleanser and toner. Follow it with your usual cleansing steps to ensure all residue is thoroughly washed away.
- Gently press a small amount of the makeup remover onto your face using soft cotton pads. Avoid harsh rubbing to prevent irritating your blemishes and active breakouts.
- Apply the makeup remover on completely dry skin to effectively break down excess oil and makeup. Clean away thoroughly before moving on to the next skincare steps .
- Do a patch test before your first use to ensure your skin reacts well. Avoid getting the product directly into your eyes .
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c35a78bc839b6c00f5359ad6ae653522.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Dermalogica Precleanse a great fit for oily acne-prone skin?

Dermalogica Precleanse is a great fit because it effectively dissolves makeup and impurities with caprylic capric triglyceride and apricot kernel oil, which help manage oiliness and breakouts. Sunflower seed oil further supports sebum balance without clogging your pores, while the formula remains gentle and is unlikely to cause irritation.

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

Caprylic capric triglyceride and apricot kernel oil make this cleanser a great fit because they effectively dissolve makeup while helping manage oiliness and breakouts. Sunflower seed oil also supports sebum balance without clogging pores, keeping your skin calm.

### What does Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride do for oily acne-prone skin?

Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride helps keep skin hydrated and prevents moisture loss without leaving a heavy feel. For oily acne-prone skin, this type of ingredient works best when it is lightweight, non-greasy, and paired with balancing or clarifying ingredients that do not clog pores.
Sources: [Life, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37109405/)

### What does Apricot Kernel Oil do for oily acne-prone skin?

Apricot kernel oil may feel too heavy and clog pores on oily acne-prone skin, which is prone to breakouts. Oily and acne-prone skin types need lightweight, non-greasy ingredients that help control shine and soothe irritation without blocking pores.
Sources: [International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29280987/)

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

This makeup remover goes in the evening routine before your cleanser, and also before your cleanser in the weekly routine. It is a great fit because it helps dissolve makeup and impurities using caprylic capric triglyceride and apricot kernel oil, and sunflower seed oil helps balance oil without clogging pores.

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

You can use this makeup remover in your evening routine before your cleanser, and it is safe to use alongside retinol. It has a great safety profile for your skin type, with no harsh ingredients that would clash with your treatment.

### How often should I use this cleanser?

This makeup remover is a great fit for your oily acne-prone skin and is used in the evening routine. It effectively dissolves makeup and impurities with caprylic capric triglyceride and apricot kernel oil, and sunflower seed oil helps support oil balance without clogging pores.

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

This cleanser is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for oily acne-prone skin, as caprylic capric triglyceride, apricot kernel oil, and sunflower seed oil help balance oil without blocking pores. It has a safe profile with no harsh ingredients that typically cause irritation.

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

It has no drying alcohol and contains fragrance (citral, limonene, and linalool).

## Alternatives for oily acne-prone skin

- [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — S$39.68 at Amazon
- [Cetaphil Gentle Makeup Removing Wipes](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/cetaphil/gentle-makeup-removing-wipes/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — S$26.25 at Amazon
- [Shu Uemura Ultime8 Sublime Beauty Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/shu-uemura/ultime8-sublime-beauty-cleansing-oil/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — S$70.21 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — S$30.40 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [TROIAREUKE H+Cocktail Purifying Ampoule Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/troiareuke/h-cocktail-purifying-ampoule-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — S$168.51 at Amazon
- SPF: [make p:rem UV Defense Me Blue Ray Sun Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/make-p-rem/uv-defense-me-blue-ray-sun-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — S$41.48 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Prunus Armeniaca Kernel Oil Apricot Kernel Oil, Peg-40 Sorbitan Peroleate, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil Sunflower Seed Oil, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Oil, Grapefruit Peel Oil, Cymbopogon Schoenanthus Oil, Borago Officinalis Seed Oil, Lavandula Angustifolia Oil Lavender Oil, Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract Rosemary Leaf Extract, Solanum Lycopersicum Extract Tomato Extract, Lavandula Hybrida Oil, Citrus Nobilis Peel Oil Mandarin Orange Peel Oil, Rice Bran Oil, Carthamus Tinctorius Seed Oil, Aleurites Moluccana Seed Oil, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Tocopherol, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Citral, Limonene, Linalool
## 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/precleanse/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/dermalogica/precleanse/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/dermalogica/precleanse/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/dermalogica/precleanse/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/dermalogica/precleanse/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/dermalogica/precleanse/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/dermalogica/precleanse/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/dermalogica/precleanse/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/dermalogica/precleanse/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/dermalogica/precleanse/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/dermalogica/precleanse/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/dermalogica/precleanse/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/dermalogica/precleanse/for/oily-acne-prone-skin