# Simple Refreshing Facial Wash for dry sensitive skin

**Lovi Fit: Low fit for dry sensitive skin.**
Dry Skin Fit: Average · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: Concerning.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/simple/refreshing-facial-wash/for/dry-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: [Simple](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/brands/simple)
Category: [Cleansers](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/best/cleansers)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with dry sensitive skin: flakiness, tightness, redness, fine lines, and wrinkles. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

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

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate cleansing for your dry and sensitive skin, as Cocamidopropyl Betaine and Sodium Laureth Sulfate help decongest pores, but the latter can strip natural oils, and the formula lacks significant humectants like hyaluronic acid or ceramides to address your dryness.
- Panthenol and Niacinamide offer some hydration and soothing benefits, but these are insufficient to counteract the drying potential of the cleansing agents for your dry or flaky skin.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Panthenol Vitamin B5, Niacinamide, Zinc Pca, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Laureth Sulfate

## What the research says

- Treatment with sodium lauryl ether sulfate emulsion increased transepidermal water loss and skin surface pH while reducing stratum corneum hydration and natural moisturizing factor content compared to diacyl phospholipid emulsions and controls, irrespective of UVA irradiation, in eight healthy volunteers. ([International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42617898/))
- A new topical panthenol-containing emollient significantly improved transepidermal water loss reduction, stratum corneum hydration, and intercellular lipid lamellae length compared with control in healthy subjects without negatively impacting bacterial viability. ([The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/))
- Topical dexpanthenol acts as a moisturizer, improves stratum corneum hydration, accelerates wound healing and epidermal regeneration, reduces erythema, and improves symptoms of skin irritation compared to vehicle or no pretreatment. ([American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/))
- A panthenol-enriched mask significantly decreased erythema and hyperpigmentation, increased sebum and stratum corneum moisture, and reduced transepidermal water loss compared to a saline dressing in 60 subjects undergoing facial laser treatment. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40613435/))
- Moisturizer containing 5% panthenol, madecassoside, and copper-zinc-manganese decreased adverse reactions and downtime after ablative fractional carbon dioxide laser resurfacing with comparable efficacy to 0.02% triamcinolone acetonide cream in 20 subjects. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30945430/))
- Topical dexpanthenol formulated in lipophilic vehicles improved stratum corneum hydration and reduced transepidermal water loss compared to vehicle control in humans. ([Arzneimittel-Forschung, 2000](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10965426/))
- Hyaluronic acid, hyaluronic acid plus dexpanthenol, and isotonic saline nasal sprays all significantly improved dry nose symptoms over four weeks in 240 patients, with hyaluronic acid plus dexpanthenol providing superior nasal moisturisation compared to the other two. ([Auris, Nasus, Larynx, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32067777/))
- 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/))
- Zinc PCA inhibits UVA-induced matrix metalloproteinase-1 production through suppressed AP-1 activation and enhances type I collagen synthesis by increasing SVCT2 mRNA expression in cultured normal human dermal fibroblasts. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21834944/))
- 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/))
- Sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) treatment decreases lipid membrane chain conformational order and stiffness leading to increased water sorption and diffusivity, whereas sodium lauryl ether sulfate (SLES) treatment increases lipid membrane conformational order and stiffness with increased water sorption capacity driven by its hygroscopic nature. ([Langmuir, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24359219/))

## Why other cleansers fit dry sensitive skin better

- Treatment with sodium lauryl ether sulfate emulsion increased transepidermal water loss and skin surface pH while reducing stratum corneum hydration and natural moisturizing factor content compared to diacyl phospholipid emulsions and controls, irrespective of UVA irradiation, in eight healthy volunteers. ([International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42617898/))
- A formulation containing glycerol (5%) and xylitol (5%) applied twice daily for 14 days increased skin hydration, filaggrin protein quantity, interdigitation index, and biomechanical properties, and decreased transepidermal water loss compared to untreated and vehicle-treated skin in twelve volunteers with dry skin. ([Acta Dermato-venereologica, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27349297/))

## What reviewers say

This gel-based cleanser is widely praised as a gentle, no-nonsense staple for sensitive and acne-prone skin, effectively removing daily dirt and oil without stripping the moisture barrier. While most users find it non-drying and refreshing, a minority complain about a "slimy" film that is difficult to rinse off or report that it struggles to remove heavy waterproof makeup.

- Liked: Gentle & non-irritating (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Effective daily cleanser (often mentioned)
- Liked: Non-stripping (often mentioned)
- Liked: Fragrance-free (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Slimy residue (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Weak on makeup (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Caused breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Chemical smell (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your cleanser AM and PM every day to keep your face fresh. Start slowly once a day if your dry skin feels sensitive at first.
- Apply your cleanser first thing in your routine before any toner or moisturizer. Follow the usual steps for your AM or PM daily routine.
- Gently massage the cleanser onto your face using soft circular motions. Avoid harsh rubbing to protect your dry skin.
- Apply the cleanser to slightly damp skin to help it clean gently without stripping moisture. This method is very safe for sensitive and dry skin types.
- Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and avoid the delicate eye area. Always do a patch test before using the product for the first time.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/6a08416bd9315041c09c72f61cf27cc1.mp4

## Questions and answers

### Why is Simple Refreshing Facial Wash a weak match for dry sensitive skin?

This cleanser is a weak match because its cleansing agents can strip your natural oils and dry out your skin, while lacking enough hydrating ingredients to counteract that effect. A cleanser of this type needs rich hydrating and barrier-repairing ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid to maintain moisture and protect dry skin.
Sources: [International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42617898/), [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/)

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

Sodium Laureth Sulfate makes this cleanser a weak match because it can strip natural oils, while the formula lacks significant hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or ceramides to address dryness. Cleansers for this skin type need a rich blend of hydrating and barrier-repairing ingredients to maintain moisture and protect the skin barrier.
Sources: [International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42617898/), [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/)

### What does Panthenol do for dry sensitive skin?

Panthenol helps soothe dry sensitive skin by calming redness and keeping it deeply hydrated. It improves moisture retention and supports skin barrier recovery, making irritated skin feel much more comfortable and soft.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/), [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/)

### What does Niacinamide do for dry sensitive skin?

Niacinamide helps dry sensitive skin by calming irritation and keeping moisture locked in so your face feels soft and smooth. It works to build up your skin barrier and calm redness while being very gentle and unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17147561/), [International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23220080/)

### Where does it go in a skincare routine for dry sensitive skin?

This cleanser fits into your morning and evening routine, but a product of this type needs extra moisture-locking ingredients like hyaluronic acid or ceramides to keep dry and flaky skin soft and smooth.
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 is a weak match for your dry sensitive skin because its cleansing agents may strip natural oils and dry you out further. To use it alongside retinol, apply your cleanser first, followed by your retinol, and finish with a gentle moisturizer containing ceramides or hyaluronic acid to help protect your skin barrier.
Sources: [International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42617898/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37276158/)

### How often should I use it?

This cleanser is a weak match for your dry and sensitive skin, so using it daily may strip your natural oils and worsen your dryness. A cleanser for this skin type needs gentle, non-stripping cleansing agents paired with rich hydrators like hyaluronic acid or ceramides to keep your skin soft and comfortable.
Sources: [International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42617898/)

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

This cleanser is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for dry sensitive skin, as its cleansing agents help decongest pores without heavy oils. Reviewers rarely report breakouts, and the formula includes ingredients that help calm the skin.

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

This cleanser can be used on the body, but it is likely too harsh for the thin and delicate skin around the eyes. A cleanser for dry sensitive skin needs gentle cleansing ingredients paired with extra moisture-binding ingredients like hyaluronic acid or ceramides to protect your skin barrier.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/), [International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42617898/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for dry sensitive skin

- [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £8.29 at Amazon
- [La Roche-Posay Hydrating Gentle Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/la-roche-posay/toleriane-hydrating-gentle-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £16.60 at Amazon
- [ETUDE Soonjung pH 6.5 Whip Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/etude/soonjung-ph-6-5-whip-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £14.65 at Amazon

## Routine for dry sensitive skin

### AM

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £8.29 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/clarins/soothing-toning-lotion/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £17.91 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [Real Barrier Mild Sun Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/real-barrier/mild-sun-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £19.01 at Amazon

### PM

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £13.58 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £8.29 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/clarins/soothing-toning-lotion/for/dry-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/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £59.74 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Lift and Firm Night Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/elizabeth-arden/advanced-ceramide-lift-and-firm-night-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £38.50 at Amazon

### Weekly

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £13.58 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £8.29 at Amazon
- Enzyme Powder: [Fancl Facial Washing Powder](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/fancl/facial-washing-powder/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £22.24 at Amazon
- Nourishing Mask: [MEDIHEAL Vita Essential Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/mediheal/vita-essential-mask/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £17.00 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/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £59.74 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Lift and Firm Night Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/elizabeth-arden/advanced-ceramide-lift-and-firm-night-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £38.50 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.co.uk: £4.28 (https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00H1TUFAI?tag=lovi-care-web-product-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Propylene Glycol, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Sodium Chloride, Panthenol Vitamin B5, Niacinamide, Zinc Pca, Citric Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Tetrasodium Edta, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate
## 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/simple/refreshing-facial-wash/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/simple/refreshing-facial-wash/for/dry-sensitive-skin (this page)
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/simple/refreshing-facial-wash/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/simple/refreshing-facial-wash/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/simple/refreshing-facial-wash/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/simple/refreshing-facial-wash/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/simple/refreshing-facial-wash/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/simple/refreshing-facial-wash/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/simple/refreshing-facial-wash/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/simple/refreshing-facial-wash/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/simple/refreshing-facial-wash/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/simple/refreshing-facial-wash/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/simple/refreshing-facial-wash/for/dry-sensitive-skin