# CeraVe Hydrating Foaming Oil Cleanser for combination skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/hydrating-foaming-oil-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 the United Kingdom.

Brand: [CeraVe](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/brands/cerave)
Category: [Cleansers](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/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 suitability for your combination skin, as glycerin and hyaluronic acid provide essential hydration without exacerbating oiliness, though stronger oil-control ingredients are absent.
- The cleansing agents coco-betaine and peg-7 glyceryl cocoate effectively remove impurities for combination skin, supporting overall skin health.
- The product is safe for your skin, containing no harsh ingredients and including soothing components like glycerin and hyaluronate.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/hydrating-foaming-oil-cleanser/for/oily-skin): Low
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/hydrating-foaming-oil-cleanser/for/dry-skin): Superior
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/hydrating-foaming-oil-cleanser/for/combination-skin): Average (this page)
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/hydrating-foaming-oil-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin): Superior
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/hydrating-foaming-oil-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/hydrating-foaming-oil-cleanser/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/hydrating-foaming-oil-cleanser/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/hydrating-foaming-oil-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Superior
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/hydrating-foaming-oil-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Ceramides, Squalane, Glycerin, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Sodium Hyaluronate

## 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/))
- 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/))
- 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 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/))
- Topical application of 0.1% hyaluronic acid formulations of different molecular weights led to significant improvements in skin hydration and elasticity, with low-molecular-weight formulations also significantly reducing wrinkle depth in seventy-six female subjects compared to a vehicle control. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/))
- Topical application of hyaluronic acid in conjunction with free gingival graft significantly reduced donor site postoperative pain until day 7 compared to normal saline, with no significant differences in graft dimensions or patient satisfaction. ([Clinical Oral Investigations, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34623507/))
- Treatment with a hyaluronic acid-containing mouth rinse or topical gel led to significant lesion reduction, pain relief, and normalization of lesion color in adult patients with minor recurrent aphthous stomatitis, with the gel formulation showing an earlier healing onset at 3 days. ([BMC Oral Health, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31311529/))

## Why other cleansers fit combination skin better

- A botanical face cleanser with hops and willow bark extract continuously reduced skin sebum levels without reactive seborrhea after treatment in 21 healthy volunteers compared to a sodium laureth sulfate cleanser, with neither cleanser causing skin irritation. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30022595/))

## What reviewers say

Most users report a gentle, hydrating feel post-wash, with a light foam rather than a heavy lather. A significant number of reviews note that it does not perform like a traditional oil cleanser and may struggle with heavy makeup removal.

- Liked: Non-stripping & gentle (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Effective for dry skin (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Not a true oil (often mentioned)
- Liked: Pleasant texture (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Versatile usage (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Caused breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Paradoxically drying (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 CeraVe Hydrating Foaming Oil Cleanser work for combination skin?

This cleanser provides moderate suitability for combination skin by delivering essential hydration without increasing oiliness, though it lacks stronger oil-control ingredients. A cleanser for this skin needs to safely balance oil production, keep dry areas moisturized, and control shine without irritation.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

Glycerin, sodium hyaluronate, and ceramides make this cleanser a good fit because they provide essential hydration without making your skin oily. A cleanser for this skin type also needs strong oil-control ingredients and a safe, non-irritating formula that balances both dry and oily areas.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What do Ceramides do for combination skin?

Ceramides help balance combination skin by supporting the skin barrier to keep dry areas hydrated without feeling heavy on oily zones. This type of skin needs lightweight hydrators and barrier-supporting ingredients like ceramides and cholesterol to maintain a smooth and calm feel across both dry and oily areas.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12553851/), [Scientific Reports, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35340018/)

### What does Squalane do for combination skin?

Squalane helps keep combination skin soft and smooth by locking in moisture without feeling heavy or greasy. It supports the skin barrier and provides lightweight hydration that works well for both dry and oily areas.
Sources: [Skin Health and Disease, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39355739/), [Journal of Nanobiotechnology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40001122/)

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

This cleanser goes in your morning and evening routine, coming after a makeup remover at night and before a hydrating toner or moisturizer. Combination skin needs a cleanser that provides hydration without making the skin oily, while also including ingredients that help control oil.

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

You can use this cleanser with retinol, applying it before your treatment step to gently wash away impurities without drying your skin. Combination skin of this type needs balancing ingredients that clear excess oil while maintaining moisture, which helps keep the skin calm and smooth during active treatments.

### How often should I use this cleanser?

You can use this cleanser twice a day as part of your morning and evening routine. Combination skin of this type needs balancing cleansers that remove impurities without stripping moisture, while also benefiting from added oil-control ingredients.

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

This cleanser is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for combination skin, as it features gentle cleansing agents and hydrating ingredients like glycerin and hyaluronic acid that keep skin balanced. However, because combination skin also needs strong oil-control ingredients to best manage shine, a product of this type needs added balancing and clarifying ingredients for this skin.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

You can use this cleanser safely around the eyes and on your body because it has a gentle formula with soothing ingredients like glycerin and sodium hyaluronate. The thin skin around the eyes and the skin on the body tolerate its mild cleansing agents well without irritation.

### 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/uk/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — £8.29 at Amazon
- [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Low pH Gel Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-low-ph-gel-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — £12.51 at Amazon
- [Eminence Organic Skin Care Clear Skin Probiotic Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/eminence-organic-skin-care/clear-skin-probiotic-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — £47.18 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — £30.37 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — £14.80 at Amazon
- Pre-Cleanser: [Pyunkang Yul Deep Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/pyunkang-yul/deep-cleansing-oil/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — £23.92 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.co.uk: £9.59 (https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B09CCJD53W?tag=lovi-care-web-product-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Notino: £12.00 (https://www.notino.co.uk/cerave/cleansers-cleansing-oil-with-moisturizing-effect/p-16091524/)
- Lookfantastic: £14.50 (https://www.lookfantastic.com/p/cerave-hydrating-foaming-oil-cleanser-236ml/13494900/)
Prices checked 10 Oct – 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Peg-200 Hydrogenated Glyceryl Palmate, Coco-Betaine, Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Peg-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate, Polysorbate 20, Peg-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, Squalane, Ceramide Np, Ceramide Ap, Ceramide Eop, Carbomer, Triethyl Citrate, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Cholesterol, Citric Acid, Capryloyl Glycine, Hydroxyacetophenone, Caprylyl Glycol, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Phytosphingosine, Xanthan Gum, Benzoic Acid, Peg-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate, Ppg-5-Ceteth-20, Peg-6 Caprylic Capric Glycerides
## 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/cerave/hydrating-foaming-oil-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/hydrating-foaming-oil-cleanser/for/combination-skin (this page)
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cerave/hydrating-foaming-oil-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cerave/hydrating-foaming-oil-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cerave/hydrating-foaming-oil-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/cerave/hydrating-foaming-oil-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/cerave/hydrating-foaming-oil-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/cerave/hydrating-foaming-oil-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/hydrating-foaming-oil-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/cerave/hydrating-foaming-oil-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/cerave/hydrating-foaming-oil-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/cerave/hydrating-foaming-oil-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cerave/hydrating-foaming-oil-cleanser/for/combination-skin