# e.l.f. Skin Holy Hydration! Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm for oily acne-prone skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/e-l-f-skin/holy-hydration-makeup-melting-cleansing-balm/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 the United Kingdom.

Brand: [e.l.f. Skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/brands/e-l-f-skin)
Category: [Makeup removers](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/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.

Works for oily acne-prone skin; other pre-cleansers fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate suitability for oily skin as cleansing oils like Cetyl Ethylhexanoate and Caprylic Capric Triglyceride effectively dissolve makeup and provide emollient action, though it lacks strong seboregulation for your concerns.
- While the product offers general hydration and cleansing benefits, it does not contain targeted ingredients to address your specific concerns of acne, blemishes, and breakouts.
- The safety profile is excellent, with no risks of irritation for your oily skin due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/e-l-f-skin/holy-hydration-makeup-melting-cleansing-balm/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/e-l-f-skin/holy-hydration-makeup-melting-cleansing-balm/for/dry-skin): High
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/e-l-f-skin/holy-hydration-makeup-melting-cleansing-balm/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/e-l-f-skin/holy-hydration-makeup-melting-cleansing-balm/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/e-l-f-skin/holy-hydration-makeup-melting-cleansing-balm/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/e-l-f-skin/holy-hydration-makeup-melting-cleansing-balm/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/e-l-f-skin/holy-hydration-makeup-melting-cleansing-balm/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/e-l-f-skin/holy-hydration-makeup-melting-cleansing-balm/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/e-l-f-skin/holy-hydration-makeup-melting-cleansing-balm/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average (this page)

## Key ingredients

Sodium Hyaluronate, Ceramides, Peptides, Glycerin, Sunflower Seed Oil

## What the research says

- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))

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

- Epigallocatechin-3-gallate significantly improved acne in patients compared to the control side during an 8-week clinical trial. ([The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23096708/))
- Topical application of tocopherol succinate ethosomal gel decreased erythema, melanin, and sebum levels while improving moisture content and skin elasticity in 34 human women. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38268219/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users overwhelmingly find this cleansing balm highly effective at melting away even waterproof makeup, leaving skin feeling hydrated and soft. It is frequently noted as being gentle and suitable for sensitive skin, offering excellent value. A moderate number of users report temporary blurry vision if the product gets into the eyes, while a smaller number experience an oily residue or occasional breakouts.

- Liked: Effective makeup removal (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Great value (often mentioned)
- Liked: Hydrating and non-stripping (often mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle on sensitive skin (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Temporary blurry vision (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Caused breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Oily residue (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Small quantity (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

### How well does e.l.f. Holy Hydration! Cleansing Balm work for oily acne-prone skin?

This cleansing balm works reasonably well to melt away makeup on oily skin, but it lacks oil control and ingredients to help with breakouts. A makeup remover for this skin needs to keep skin hydrated without heavier oils or butters that can clog pores, while adding soothing ingredients and oil-balancing agents.
Sources: [Life, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37109405/)

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

This cleanser dissolves makeup and softens your skin using ingredients like Cetyl Ethylhexanoate and Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, though it lacks targeted oil control or breakout-fighting ingredients for oily acne-prone skin. A better option for this skin type needs oil-regulating ingredients and soothing components that help manage excess shine and blemishes without clogging pores.
Sources: [Life, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37109405/)

### What does Hyaluronic Acid do for oily acne-prone skin?

Hyaluronic acid helps calm oily acne-prone skin by reducing sebum production and lipid synthesis in sebaceous glands. It also supports skin barrier function and improves hydration while helping deliver treatments without causing irritation.
Sources: [The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28163068/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35796638/)

### What do Ceramides do for oily acne-prone skin?

Ceramides help restore the protective barrier of oily, acne-prone skin, which often lacks these vital lipids and suffers from moisture loss and irritation. Using products with ceramides supports skin hydration, calms redness, and improves overall texture while managing breakouts.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41749022/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37605504/)

### 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 in your weekly routine before your cleanser and other steps. It melts away makeup effectively, though oily and blemish-prone skin needs targeted acne-fighting ingredients and oil-balancing care.

### 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 retinol treatment. It is unlikely to irritate your oily skin, but because it lacks ingredients that target breakouts, oily acne-prone skin needs a makeup remover that also helps control oil and clear blemishes.

### How often should I use this cleanser?

You can use this makeup remover in the evening to take off makeup, as it works fine for your oily acne-prone skin even though other products fit it better. It has a great safety profile with no irritation risks, but to properly manage blemishes and breakouts, this skin type needs oil-controlling and acne-fighting ingredients.

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

This cleanser works for your skin, though other products fit it better because it lacks ingredients to manage acne and breakouts. It is unlikely to cause irritation, but a product of this type needs oil-controlling ingredients to truly suit oily skin.

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

It has no drying alcohol and contains fragrance (geraniol, linalool, and parfum).

## Alternatives for oily acne-prone skin

- [Pyunkang Yul Deep Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/pyunkang-yul/deep-cleansing-oil/for/oily-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/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £13.58 at Amazon
- [Cetaphil Gentle Makeup Removing Wipes](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cetaphil/gentle-makeup-removing-wipes/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — £13.14 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Paula's Choice CLEAR Pore Normalizing Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/clear-pore-normalizing-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £26.00 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/oily-acne-prone-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/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £14.80 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.co.uk: £11.77 (https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B08TQTT8LK?tag=lovi-care-web-product-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 5 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Hydrogenated Polydecene, Peg-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate, Polyethylene, Peg-10 Isostearate, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil Sunflower Seed Oil, Hydrogenated Sunflower Seed Oil, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Ceramide Np, Ceramide 6 Ii, Ceramide 1, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Phytosphingosine, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Water, Polysorbate 20, Carbomer, Xanthan Gum, Cholesterol, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Caprylyl Glycol, Geraniol, Linalool, Parfum
## 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/e-l-f-skin/holy-hydration-makeup-melting-cleansing-balm/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/e-l-f-skin/holy-hydration-makeup-melting-cleansing-balm/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/e-l-f-skin/holy-hydration-makeup-melting-cleansing-balm/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
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