# CeraVe Micellar Cleansing Water for combination skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/micellar-cleansing-water/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: [Makeup removers](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/best/makeup-removers)

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 products fit it better.

## Why this fit

- This cleanser offers moderate cleansing and hydration benefits for your combination skin, with Glycerin and Niacinamide helping to manage oily shine and support your skin's barrier. Niacinamide is particularly beneficial for seboregulation, aligning well with your oily shine concerns.
- Ceramides and Phytosphingosine further aid in barrier repair, contributing to overall skin health and resilience for your combination skin type.
- The product is safe for your skin, as it contains no harsh or prohibited ingredients and is unlikely to cause irritation.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Niacinamide, Ceramide Np, Ceramide Ap, Ceramide Eop, Glycerin

## 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 application of an emulsion containing a complete mixture of ceramides III, IIIB, VI, phytosphingosine, cholesterol, and linoleic acid significantly accelerated barrier recovery after SLS damage and improved skin hydration after acetone treatment in human volunteers compared to an emulsion containing only two types of ceramides. ([Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12482041/))
- Topical post-laser application of human adipocyte-derived mesenchymal stem cell media combined with niacinamide significantly improved wrinkle index, melanin index, patient satisfaction, and investigator esthetic improvement scores compared to vehicle cream in patients with aging skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33103316/))
- Topical nicotinamide prevented solar-simulated UV-induced immunosuppression in healthy volunteers, and men experienced immunosuppression at solar-simulated UV doses three times lower than those required for women. ([The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17882270/))
- Topical 5% niacinamide applied twice daily for 12 weeks reduced fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmented spots, red blotchiness, and skin sallowness, and improved skin elasticity compared to vehicle control in 50 female white subjects with facial photoaging. ([Dermatologic Surgery, 2005](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16029679/))
- 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/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users with normal to dry and sensitive skin frequently praise this product for its hydrating, non-stripping formula that effectively removes light daily grime without disrupting the skin barrier. A significant number of reviewers report stinging when used around the eyes and note that it struggles to remove waterproof mascara or heavy makeup.

- Liked: Gentle and hydrating (often mentioned)
- Liked: Safe for sensitive skin (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Stings eyes (often mentioned)
- Liked: Beneficial ingredients (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Effective morning cleanse (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Weak on makeup (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Skin reactions (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Uses many pads (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Could be used as part of your AM and PM routine. Use it daily to help control excess oil.
- Apply this micellar water before your cleanser as a first step.
- Soak a cotton pad and gently sweep it across your face without hard rubbing.
- Apply it on dry skin to effectively remove makeup and impurities.
- Avoid getting the micellar water directly into your eyes.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/4c4e1c5d3b1872b61ad8bc720cfc30a6.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does CeraVe Micellar Cleansing Water work for combination skin?

This micellar water works moderately well for your combination skin, using glycerin and niacinamide to help manage oily shine while supporting your skin barrier. It is unlikely to cause irritation, but a product for this skin needs richer nourishing ingredients like squalane and plant oils to properly balance both oily and dry areas.
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, niacinamide, and ceramides make this cleanser a good fit for combination skin by helping manage oily shine and supporting your skin's barrier. To fit this skin type best, a product of this type also needs soothing plant oils and extracts that hydrate dry areas without causing irritation.
Sources: [Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12482041/)

### What does Niacinamide do for combination skin?

Niacinamide helps balance oily areas by reducing excess shine and pore size while keeping dry patches hydrated and smooth. It also works to calm redness and even out skin tone, making it very suitable for combination skin.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12100180/), [Antioxidants, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34439563/)

### What do Ceramides do for combination skin?

Ceramides help balance combination skin by supporting the skin barrier in dry areas without feeling heavy on oily zones, keeping the skin smooth and comfortable. They play an essential role in maintaining the outer water barrier, and a moisturizer with ceramides and light hydrators works well for this skin type.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12553851/)

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

This micellar water goes in your evening routine as a makeup remover before your cleanser, and it is also gentle enough to use whenever you need to freshen up. To work best for combination skin, this type of product needs ingredients like glycerin and niacinamide to manage oily shine, alongside ceramides to support your skin barrier.

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

You can use this micellar water alongside retinol by applying it first to gently cleanse your skin before your retinol treatment. Combination skin needs a product with ceramides, glycerin, and niacinamide to keep the skin barrier strong and manage oily shine while using active ingredients.
Sources: [Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12482041/)

### How often should I use it?

You can use this micellar water daily as part of your morning or evening routine to cleanse and help manage oily shine. It is unlikely to cause irritation, but combination skin often does better with products that provide stronger hydration and oil control using ingredients like ceramides and niacinamide.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31461548/), [Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12482041/)

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

This cleanser is unlikely to cause breakouts or clog pores on combination skin, as it contains no harsh ingredients and is well tolerated. To prevent clogged pores and manage oily shine effectively on combination skin, a cleanser of this type needs added ingredients like niacinamide and ceramides to support skin health.

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for combination skin

- [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — £14.99 at Amazon
- [Shu Uemura Ultime8 Sublime Beauty Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/shu-uemura/ultime8-sublime-beauty-cleansing-oil/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — £17.00 at Amazon
- [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

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — £14.99 at Amazon
- 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

## Where to buy

- Amazon.co.uk: £10.80 (https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07HB7G4JP?tag=lovi-care-web-product-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Notino: £11.40 (https://www.notino.co.uk/cerave/micellar-water-hydrating-cleansing-micellar-water-for-normal-to-dry-skin/p-16390050/)
Prices checked 17 Oct – 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Hexylene Glycol, Poloxamer 184, Disodium Cocoamphoacetate, Disodium Edta, Niacinamide, Polyaminopropyl Biguanide, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Bht, Ceramide Np, Phenoxyethanol, Ceramide Ap, Phytosphingosine, Cholesterol, Xanthan Gum, Carbomer, Ethylhexylglycerin, Ceramide Eop
## 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/micellar-cleansing-water/for/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/micellar-cleansing-water/for/combination-skin (this page)
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cerave/micellar-cleansing-water/for/combination-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cerave/micellar-cleansing-water/for/combination-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cerave/micellar-cleansing-water/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/cerave/micellar-cleansing-water/for/combination-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/cerave/micellar-cleansing-water/for/combination-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/cerave/micellar-cleansing-water/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/micellar-cleansing-water/for/combination-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/cerave/micellar-cleansing-water/for/combination-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/cerave/micellar-cleansing-water/for/combination-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/cerave/micellar-cleansing-water/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cerave/micellar-cleansing-water/for/combination-skin