# Augustinus Bader The Cleansing Balm for acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/augustinus-bader/the-cleansing-balm/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 Kingdom.

Brand: [Augustinus Bader](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/brands/augustinus-bader)
Category: [Makeup removers](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/best/makeup-removers)

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 pre-cleansers fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate cleansing benefits for your combination skin, as Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil and Coconut Oil effectively dissolve makeup and impurities, though these emollient oils may increase oiliness in certain areas.
- Bisabolol and Tocopherol provide some anti-inflammatory and antioxidant support, which are generally beneficial but do not directly target your acne concerns.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/augustinus-bader/the-cleansing-balm/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/augustinus-bader/the-cleansing-balm/for/dry-skin): Superior
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/augustinus-bader/the-cleansing-balm/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/augustinus-bader/the-cleansing-balm/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/augustinus-bader/the-cleansing-balm/for/acne-prone-skin): Average (this page)
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/augustinus-bader/the-cleansing-balm/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/augustinus-bader/the-cleansing-balm/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/augustinus-bader/the-cleansing-balm/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/augustinus-bader/the-cleansing-balm/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Tfc8 Trigger Factor Complex 8, Squalane, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil Sunflower Seed Oil, Coconut Oil, Persea Gratissima Oil Avocado Oil

## 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/))
- Squalane at 0.005-0.015% counteracts UVA-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, and collagen metabolism inhibition while stimulating fibroblast migration in human dermal fibroblasts. ([Molecules, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40363772/))
- Plant-derived squalane protected human dermal fibroblasts against UVA-induced damage by counteracting ROS formation, suppressing apoptosis-related proteins p53, caspase-3, caspase-9, and PARP, and restoring the pro-survival p-Akt/mTOR pathway. ([Antioxidants, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40722956/))
- Overnight virgin coconut oil application provides a skin protective effect against damage and increased TEWL from frequent alcohol-based hand sanitizer usage in 60 volunteers, resulting in a 25% increase in perceived moisture content compared to the control group. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34121304/))
- Topical cream containing saffron extract and avocado oil improved wrinkle grading, reduced nasolabial fold area and volume, and increased skin elasticity in twenty healthy volunteers over 12 weeks without allergic reactions. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31957954/))
- Topical treatment with SSFAO 50% or avocado oil increased wound contraction, reepithelialization, collagen density, and tensile strength while showing anti-inflammatory activity compared to petroleum jelly in rats. ([Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23573130/))

## Why other pre-cleansers fit acne-prone skin better

- Co-delivery of paeonol and madecassoside via nanoemulsions improved transdermal delivery, promoted barrier repair proteins, inhibited inflammatory cytokine secretion in cellular and 3D models, and reduced transepidermal water loss and acne in human facial skin compared to free components. ([Molecules, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37446936/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users describe this balm as a luxurious, spa-like treatment that effectively melts away makeup while leaving dry or mature skin feeling exceptionally soft, hydrated, and plump rather than stripped. A minority of users find the heavy glass packaging cumbersome and note that the rich formula can leave a film if not removed thoroughly with the included muslin cloth, making it less ideal for those preferring a quick rinse-off cleanser.

- Liked: Deeply hydrating (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Luxurious texture (often mentioned)
- Disliked: High price point (often mentioned)
- Liked: Effective makeup removal (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Gentle and fragrance-free (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Requires cloth removal (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Eye irritation (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Heavy packaging (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this makeup remover PM as the first step of your evening routine to clear away dirt and oil. Start 3x/week and work up to daily use if your combination skin tolerates it well.
- Apply this makeup remover before cleansing and using the rest of your skin products. This ensures all makeup and impurities are fully washed away.
- Gently press a small amount of the makeup remover onto your face using a soft cotton pad. Avoid rubbing the skin too harshly to prevent irritation.
- Apply the makeup remover on dry skin to easily dissolve makeup and clear out blemishes. There is no need to dampen your face beforehand.
- Do a patch test before first use to ensure your skin reacts well. Avoid the delicate eye area while applying.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c35a78bc839b6c00f5359ad6ae653522.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does Augustinus Bader The Cleansing Balm work for acne-prone skin?

Augustinus Bader The Cleansing Balm works moderately well for acne-prone skin, effectively removing makeup while providing some soothing support, though its rich oils may increase oiliness and potentially trigger breakouts in certain areas. Makeup removers that fit this skin better need ingredients that target blemishes directly and soothe effectively without heavy oils.

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

Bisabolol and tocopherol help soothe acne-prone skin with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant support. However, makeup removers of this type need lightweight, non-pore-clogging hydration and targeted blemish-fighting ingredients to truly fit this skin type well.

### What does Tfc8 do for acne-prone skin?

Acne-prone skin needs a product that helps calm redness and clears pores without feeling heavy. Tfc8 is unlikely to clog pores, but products for this skin type work best when they also balance oil and soothe angry breakouts.

### What does Squalane do for acne-prone skin?

Squalane may help keep acne-prone skin soft and smooth, but peroxidated forms can trigger inflammation in skin cells. For a better fit on acne-prone skin, products need non-clogging, soothing ingredients that balance oil without causing irritation.
Sources: [The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16778793/)

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

This makeup remover goes in the evening routine before a cleanser. It dissolves makeup and impurities with sunflower seed oil and coconut oil, though these heavy oils may increase oiliness for acne-prone skin. Acne-prone skin needs lightweight, oil-free cleansers and targeted treatments with salicylic acid or niacinamide to help clear blemishes 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, leaving your skin soft while washing away makeup. When pairing with acne treatments like retinol, acne-prone skin needs products that protect the skin barrier and balance oil without clogging pores.

### How often should I use it?

You can use this makeup remover in your evening routine when taking off makeup, but acne-prone skin needs a lighter product that dissolves impurities without increasing oiliness.

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

This cleanser may increase oiliness and breakouts on acne-prone skin because oils like sunflower seed oil and coconut oil can feel heavy and clog pores. An acne-friendly cleanser for this skin needs lightweight, non-clogging ingredients and gentle purifying benefits that clear pores without rich oils.

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for acne-prone skin

- [Shu Uemura Ultime8 Sublime Beauty Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/shu-uemura/ultime8-sublime-beauty-cleansing-oil/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £17.00 at Amazon
- [Pyunkang Yul Deep Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/pyunkang-yul/deep-cleansing-oil/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £23.92 at Amazon
- [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £13.58 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [B.LAB Matcha Hydrating Foam Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/b-lab/matcha-hydrating-foam-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £8.13 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £13.98 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Some By Mi Yuja Niacin Brightening Moisture Gel Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/some-by-mi/yuja-niacin-brightening-moisture-gel-cream/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £11.90 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Lookfantastic: £52.80 (https://www.lookfantastic.com/p/augustinus-bader-the-cleansing-balm-90g/16713157/)
Prices checked 10 Oct 2026.

## Ingredients

Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil Sunflower Seed Oil, Coconut Oil, Polyglyceryl-4 Oleate, Vitis Vinifera Seed Oil Grape Seed Oil, Helianthus Annuus Wax Seed Sunflower Wax Seed, Persea Gratissima Oil Avocado Oil, Squalane, C10-18 Triglycerides, Phytosterols, Bisabolol, Hydrogenated Oil, Olea Europaea Oil Fruit Olive Oil Fruit, Glyceryl Stearate, Sorbitan Oleate, Tocopherol, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Glycerin, Water, Lecithin Soybean, Pentylene Glycol, Hydrolyzed Rice Protein, Opuntia Ficus-Indica Stem Extract, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Xanthan Gum, Butylene Glycol, Arginine, Phenylalanine, Glycine, Lysine, Sisymbrium Irio Seed Oil, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Hydroxide, Oligopeptide-4, Oligopeptide-177
## 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/augustinus-bader/the-cleansing-balm/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/augustinus-bader/the-cleansing-balm/for/acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/augustinus-bader/the-cleansing-balm/for/acne-prone-skin
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