# Murad Clarifying Cleanser for sensitive skin

**Lovi Fit: Caution fit for sensitive skin.**
Normal Skin Fit: Low · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: Risky.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/murad/clarifying-cleanser/for/sensitive-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: [Murad](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/brands/murad)
Category: [Cleansers](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/best/cleansers)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with sensitive skin: redness, stinging, and reactions to new products. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

A poor match for sensitive skin; the cleansers alongside fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate exfoliation for redness and irritation due to salicylic acid and urea, which can cause dryness and irritation for your normal skin with sensitivity. Trehalose and betaine are included to help mitigate this dryness.
- The cleansing action is moderate, with sodium c14-16 olefin sulfonate helping to decongest pores.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/murad/clarifying-cleanser/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/murad/clarifying-cleanser/for/dry-skin): Warning
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/murad/clarifying-cleanser/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/murad/clarifying-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin): Caution (this page)
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/murad/clarifying-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/murad/clarifying-cleanser/for/dark-spots): Low
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/murad/clarifying-cleanser/for/mature-skin): Caution
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/murad/clarifying-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Warning
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/murad/clarifying-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Salicylic Acid, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Camellia Oleifera Leaf Extract, Menthol, Silver Citrate

## What the research says

- Cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen achieved a higher cure rate (39%) than salicylic acid (24%) and a wait-and-see approach (16%) for cutaneous warts at 13 weeks in primary care patients. ([CMAJ, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20837684/))
- A moisturizer containing licochalcone A, 1,2-decanediol, L-carnitine, and salicylic acid significantly reduced noninflammatory, inflammatory, and total acne lesion counts compared to a vehicle control in Thai patients during a 12-week maintenance phase. ([BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/))
- Treatment with 2% supramolecular salicylic acid hydrogel resulted in a regression and markedly improvement rate of 51.01% compared to 43.10% for Adapaline gel in patients with mild to moderate facial acne vulgaris, showing no significant difference in efficacy. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38590107/))
- The cytotoxic effect of sodium lauryl sulphate on normal human keratinocytes was significantly decreased when combined with cocamidopropyl betaine, Tween 20, and Tween 80 at concentrations well below the critical micelle concentration. ([Skin Pharmacology and Applied Skin Physiology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12677096/))
- Topical green tea extract significantly improved clinical symptoms, tear breakup times, and meibomian gland health compared to standard treatment in patients with dry eye and Meibomian Gland Dysfunction. ([Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28384900/))
- Topical low-dose green tea extract reduces UVB-induced p53 expression and apoptosis in human skin keratinocytes compared to placebo. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18631247/))
- An anti-acne hydrogel containing Aloe barbadensis, Garcinia mangostana, and Camellia sinensis extracts showed superior antiacne and antiblotch activities compared to 1% clindamycin gel in sixty subjects with mild-moderate acne. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31239743/))
- Coadministration of 40% topical L-menthol with 10% trans-cinnamaldehyde reduced spontaneous pain intensity, neurogenic inflammation, primary and secondary mechanical hyperalgesia, and heat hyperalgesia, but not cold hyperalgesia, in 14 healthy volunteers. ([The Journal of Pain, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27260636/))
- Topical application of menthol-based cooling gel decreased intramuscular temperature by 1.9 °C and increased cutaneous blood flow by 0.3 ml/min in healthy males compared to placebo gel. ([International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30038834/))
- Cooling skin temperature or applying topical menthol reduced histamine-induced itch intensity and flare diameters in healthy male volunteers. ([Neuroscience Letters, 1995](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7624016/))

## What reviewers say

This gel cleanser is widely praised by users with oily and acne-prone skin for its ability to significantly reduce breakouts and control excess oil using encapsulated salicylic acid. While effective for deep cleaning, it is potent and frequently cited as drying or stripping, making it less suitable for sensitive or dry skin types without careful hydration. The summary is based on a very large amount of data and should be definitely taken into account.

- Liked: Clears acne effectively (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Controls oil and shine (often mentioned)
- Liked: Deep clean feeling (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Drying and stripping (often mentioned)
- Liked: Cooling sensation (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Lathers well (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Causes purging/breakouts (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: High price point (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Medicinal scent (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Packaging issues (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your cleanser in the AM and PM routines every day. Start using it daily since your sensitive skin needs gentle care.
- Apply this first in your morning and evening skincare routine before toner and moisturizer. This clears away dirt without upsetting your skin.
- Gently massage a small amount onto your face using soft circles. Avoid any rough rubbing to keep redness away.
- Apply the cleanser on slightly damp skin to help it wash away impurities softly. Clean skin feels fresh and comfortable afterwards.
- Avoid getting the cleanser in your eyes and do a quick patch test before first use. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/6a08416bd9315041c09c72f61cf27cc1.mp4

## Questions and answers

### Why does Lovi advise caution with Murad Clarifying Cleanser for sensitive skin?

Lovi advises caution because this cleanser contains salicylic acid and urea, which may cause dryness and irritation for sensitive skin. A product of this type needs effective hydrating and soothing ingredients like niacinamide and ceramide-3 to keep the skin calm and comfortable.

### Which ingredients make this cleanser a poor fit for sensitive skin?

Salicylic acid and menthol make this cleanser a poor fit, as they may cause dryness and irritation for sensitive skin. Cleansers for this skin need effective hydrating and soothing ingredients like Niacinamide and Ceramide-3 to cleanse without stripping moisture.

### What does Salicylic Acid do for sensitive skin?

Salicylic acid may cause irritation on sensitive skin, so it requires careful use and good sun protection to keep skin comfortable. A product for this skin type needs gentle, soothing ingredients and a mild formula that respects the skin barrier.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 1999](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10233334/), [International Journal of Toxicology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14617432/)

### What does Cocamidopropyl Betaine do for sensitive skin?

Cocamidopropyl Betaine helps cleanse the skin, but it may cause irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive skin because of impurities like amidoamine. Sensitive skin needs cleansers with very well-tolerated ingredients like sodium cocoyl glutamate that do not trigger redness or rashes.

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

This cleanser goes in the morning and evening routine for sensitive skin, but because it can cause dryness and irritation, a cleanser for this skin needs to be mild and hydrating to keep the skin calm and comfortable.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32239984/)

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

This cleanser may be too harsh for sensitive skin when combined with retinol, as it contains strong ingredients that can cause dryness and irritation. If you choose to use them together, apply the cleanser first, rinse thoroughly, and follow with your retinol and a gentle moisturizer to help calm your skin.

### How often should I use this cleanser?

This cleanser requires caution on sensitive skin because its salicylic acid and strong cleansing ingredients may cause dryness and irritation, though it includes betaine to help comfort the skin. A sensitive skin routine needs a gentle, mild cleanser that washes away dirt without stripping moisture, paired with soothing and hydrating ingredients.
Sources: [Skin Research and Technology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12535284/), [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32239984/)

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

Yes, this cleanser may cause breakouts or purging for sensitive skin, as reviewers frequently report it being drying and stripping. To safely care for sensitive skin, a cleanser of this type needs soothing ingredients like betaine and calming plant extracts to keep skin comfortable without causing irritation.
Sources: [Skin Research and Technology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12535284/), [Molecules, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38611819/)

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

This cleanser may be too harsh for the thin skin around the eyes and is better suited for the body. Because sensitive skin needs gentle care, a cleanser of this type for sensitive skin needs soothing extracts and gentle cleansers to keep skin calm and hydrated without irritation.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/), [Skin Research and Technology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12535284/)

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

It has no drying alcohol and contains fragrance (limonene and parfum).

## Alternatives for sensitive skin

- [La Roche-Posay Hydrating Gentle Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/la-roche-posay/toleriane-hydrating-gentle-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £16.60 at Amazon
- [Cetaphil Gentle Foaming Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cetaphil/gentle-foaming-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £22.99 at Amazon
- [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £8.29 at Amazon

## Routine for sensitive skin

### AM

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £14.99 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/clarins/soothing-toning-lotion/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £17.91 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [Clinique Mineral Sunscreen Fluid for Face SPF 50](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/clinique/broad-spectrum-spf-50-mineral-sunscreen-fluid-for-face/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £21.00 at Amazon

### PM

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £13.58 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £14.99 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/clarins/soothing-toning-lotion/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £17.91 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/peach-and-lily/glass-skin-refining-serum/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £59.74 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Enrich Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/skin1004/madagascar-centella-probio-cica-enrich-cream/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £14.74 at Amazon

### Weekly

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £13.58 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £14.99 at Amazon
- Enzyme Powder: [Fancl Facial Washing Powder](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/fancl/facial-washing-powder/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £22.24 at Amazon
- Nourishing Mask: [Anua Heartleaf 77% Soothing Sheet Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/anua/heartleaf-77-soothing-sheet-mask/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £21.00 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/peach-and-lily/glass-skin-refining-serum/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £59.74 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Enrich Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/skin1004/madagascar-centella-probio-cica-enrich-cream/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £14.74 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.co.uk: £33.80 (https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0FFWHK5MG?tag=lovi-care-web-product-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Notino: £26.50 (https://www.notino.co.uk/murad/blemish-control-control-clarifying-cleanser-cleansing-gel-for-oily-and-combination-skin/p-16356028/)
- Lookfantastic: £29.00 (https://www.lookfantastic.com/p/murad-blemish-control-clarifying-cleanser-148ml/17687490/)
Prices checked 10 Oct – 3 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Urea, Yeast Amino Acids, Trehalose, Inositol, Taurine, Betaine, Methyl Gluceth-20, Ppg-26-Buteth-26, Peg-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Butylene Glycol, Cimicifuga Racemosa Root Extract, Camellia Oleifera Leaf Extract, Silver Citrate, Peg-150 Distearate, Menthol, Zea Mays Starch, Hydrolyzed Corn Starch, Hydrolyzed Corn Octenylsuccinate Starch, Glyceryl Stearate, Cocamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Polysorbate 80, Citric Acid, Disodium Edta, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Chlorphenesin, Limonene, Citrus Reticulata Oil Leaf Tangerine Oil Leaf, Citronella Oil, Lemon Peel Oil, Citrus Aurantifolia Oil, Lavandula Hybrida Oil, Citrus Nobilis Peel Oil Mandarin Orange Peel Oil, Prunus Armeniaca Kernel Oil Apricot Kernel Oil, Parfum, Salicylic Acid
## 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/murad/clarifying-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/murad/clarifying-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin (this page)
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/murad/clarifying-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/murad/clarifying-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/murad/clarifying-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/murad/clarifying-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/murad/clarifying-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/murad/clarifying-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/murad/clarifying-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/murad/clarifying-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin
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- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/murad/clarifying-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/murad/clarifying-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin