# Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Cleansing Gel for combination skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-hydrating-cleansing-gel/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: [Neutrogena](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/brands/neutrogena)
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.

One of the best cleansers for combination skin.

## Why this fit

- Excellent suitability for your combination skin is provided by glycerin and hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid, which offer humectant action, alongside mild surfactants that cleanse without stripping. The presence of Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate and Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate in high concentrations ensures effective pore cleansing, addressing your oily shine.
- This formula offers general skincare benefits, such as hydration and cleansing, which are supportive for your skin.
- The safety profile is excellent, with no risks of irritation for your combination skin due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-hydrating-cleansing-gel/for/oily-skin): Superior
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-hydrating-cleansing-gel/for/dry-skin): Superior
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-hydrating-cleansing-gel/for/combination-skin): Superior (this page)
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-hydrating-cleansing-gel/for/sensitive-skin): Superior
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-hydrating-cleansing-gel/for/acne-prone-skin): Superior
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-hydrating-cleansing-gel/for/dark-spots): Superior
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-hydrating-cleansing-gel/for/mature-skin): Superior
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-hydrating-cleansing-gel/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Superior
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-hydrating-cleansing-gel/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Superior

## Key ingredients

Sodium Hyaluronate, Glycerin, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Sodium Hydrolyzed Potato Dodecenylsuccinate Starch

## 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/))
- Sodium cocoyl isethionate micelles are too large to penetrate stratum corneum aqueous pores, resulting in significant steric hindrance that prevents skin barrier perturbation and explains its skin mildness. ([Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17598025/))
- Profhilo treatment led to significant improvements in superficial skin hydration and transepidermal water loss over time in Chinese females, while demonstrating good product tolerability. ([Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40921777/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- Hydrophobically modified polymers and sodium hydrolyzed potato starch dodecenylsuccinate reduce irritation and surfactant penetration while providing effective cleansing and improved tolerability in individuals with sensitive skin compared to commercial mild cleansers. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42081636/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users with dry, sensitive, and acne-prone skin frequently praise this cleanser for its ability to remove impurities without stripping the skin's natural moisture barrier, often citing the hyaluronic acid formula as a key benefit. While generally effective for daily cleansing, some users note it struggles with heavy or waterproof makeup and have reported mixed experiences regarding the product's fragrance.

- Liked: Non-stripping hydration (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle formula (often mentioned)
- Liked: Pleasant texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Effective daily cleanse (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Fragrance-free option (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Strong fragrance (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Weak makeup removal (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Poor pump design (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Skin reactions (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Unexpected dryness (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

### What makes Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Cleansing Gel one of the best fits for combination skin?

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Cleansing Gel is an exceptional fit for combination skin because its glycerin and hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid quench dry areas, while mild cleansers wash away oily shine without stripping. It has an excellent safety profile and is unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17598025/)

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

Glycerin and hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid make this cleanser a great fit by bringing in moisture, while mild cleansers wash away oily shine without stripping your skin. These ingredients are very gentle and unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17598025/)

### What does Hyaluronic Acid do for combination skin?

Hyaluronic acid is a great fit for combination skin because it quenches dry areas with a boost of hydration while keeping oily zones balanced. Regular use helps smooth out fine lines and makes your skin feel soft and plump without causing irritation.
Sources: [Dermatology and Therapy, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34176098/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/)

### What does Glycerin do for combination skin?

Glycerin helps keep combination skin soft and smooth by pulling moisture in and keeping it there. It improves hydration and supports your skin barrier, which is unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18510666/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

This cleanser goes as the first step in your morning routine and the second step in your evening routine after a makeup remover. It gently cleans your pores and manages oily shine without stripping your skin, and it is very unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32239984/), [Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17598025/)

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

You can use this cleanser with retinol by washing your face with it before applying your retinol treatment to help cleanse pores without stripping your skin. This formula is unlikely to cause irritation and supports your skin barrier while you use retinoids.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17598025/), [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17121065/)

### How often should I use this cleanser?

You can use this cleanser twice a day as part of your morning and evening routine. Its gentle ingredients clean pores and reduce oily shine without stripping your combination skin.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17598025/)

### 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 because it uses mild cleansers that remove excess oil without stripping your skin. It does not contain harsh ingredients, making it safe for your skin type without a risk of irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17598025/)

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

You can use this cleanser on your body, but the skin around your eyes is much thinner and may need extra care. Its mild ingredients and gentle cleansing action help clean without stripping moisture, though you should always check how your delicate eye area reacts.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/), [Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17598025/)

### Is this cleanser 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
- [IS Clinical Cleansing Complex](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/is-clinical/cleansing-complex/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — £44.00 at Amazon
- [Missha Super Aqua Ultra Hyalron Cleansing Foam](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/missha/super-aqua-ultra-hyalron-cleansing-foam/for/combination-skin) — High fit — £9.86 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: £6.33 (https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0D6S8HQ1L?tag=lovi-care-web-product-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Notino: £6.90 (https://www.notino.co.uk/neutrogena/hydro-boost-gentle-cleansing-gel/p-16239610/)
Prices checked 14 Oct – 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Hydrolyzed Potato Dodecenylsuccinate Starch, Potassium Acrylates Copolymer, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin, Linoleamidopropyl Pg-Dimonium Chloride Phosphate, Polyquaternium-10, Hydroxyacetophenone, Disodium Edta, Citric Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Phenoxyethanol
## 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/neutrogena/hydro-boost-hydrating-cleansing-gel/for/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-hydrating-cleansing-gel/for/combination-skin (this page)
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-hydrating-cleansing-gel/for/combination-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-hydrating-cleansing-gel/for/combination-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-hydrating-cleansing-gel/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-hydrating-cleansing-gel/for/combination-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-hydrating-cleansing-gel/for/combination-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-hydrating-cleansing-gel/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-hydrating-cleansing-gel/for/combination-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-hydrating-cleansing-gel/for/combination-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-hydrating-cleansing-gel/for/combination-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-hydrating-cleansing-gel/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-hydrating-cleansing-gel/for/combination-skin