# Avène Cicalfate Repair Cream for skin with dark spots

**Lovi Fit: High fit for skin with dark spots.**
Normal Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: High · Safety: Excellent.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/avene/cicalfate-repair-cream/for/dark-spots

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for Canada.

Brand: [Avène](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/brands/avene)
Category: [Moisturizers and moisturizing serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/best/moisturizers)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with dark spots: hyperpigmentation, sun spots, and uneven skin tone. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

One of the best moisturizers for skin with dark spots.

## Why this fit

- Highly suitable for your normal skin due to the presence of glycerin and caprylic capric triglyceride, which provide humectant and emollient actions respectively, supporting skin hydration and barrier function.
- Offers moderate benefits for pigmentation with zinc oxide and copper sulfate providing soothing and healing properties.
- The safety profile is excellent, with no risks of irritation for your normal skin due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients and the presence of soothing ingredients like zinc oxide and copper sulfate.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/avene/cicalfate-repair-cream/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/avene/cicalfate-repair-cream/for/dry-skin): Superior
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/avene/cicalfate-repair-cream/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/avene/cicalfate-repair-cream/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/avene/cicalfate-repair-cream/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/avene/cicalfate-repair-cream/for/dark-spots): High (this page)
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/avene/cicalfate-repair-cream/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/avene/cicalfate-repair-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Superior
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/avene/cicalfate-repair-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Zinc Oxide, Glycerin, Beeswax, Copper Sulfate, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride

## 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 emollient emulsion containing 15.0% caprylic/capric triglyceride doubled the amount of urocanic acid isomers and increased skin hydration with reduced transepidermal water loss in healthy subjects, though it did not prevent ultraviolet-induced urocanic acid isomerization. ([Life, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37109405/))
- A single application of a topical formulation containing copper sulfate pentahydrate and Hypericum perforatum effectively managed HSV-1 and HSV-2 lesions with lower odds of burning, stinging, acute pain, erythema, and vesiculation compared to topical 5% Acyclovir cream in adult patients. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22270204/))
- Biomimetic hyaluronic acid-stabilized zinc oxide nanoparticles selectively inhibited C. acnes, outperformed erythromycin in preclinical acne models, and safely reduced acne lesions and redness in a clinical trial. ([Journal of Controlled Release, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40254135/))
- Topical 0.5% hyaluronic-ZnO nanogel applied twice daily reduced inflammatory-lesion counts by 58% at week four in human subjects compared to baseline without causing erythema. ([Biomedicines, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41007718/))
- Nels cream achieved a similar reduction in inflammatory and noninflammatory lesion counts compared to 5% benzoyl peroxide in acne vulgaris patients, but caused significantly fewer side-effects such as peeling and dryness. ([Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, 2000](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10671963/))
- Topically applied coated and uncoated zinc oxide nanoparticles under flexing and massage are retained in the stratum corneum with no significant penetration into the viable epidermis and no cellular toxicity in human skin. ([Nanomedicine, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27102240/))
- 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/))
- Topical application of a honey, olive oil, and beeswax mixture three times daily for up to 4 weeks resulted in clinical responses in 86% of patients with pityriasis versicolor, 78% with tinea cruris, and 75% with tinea corporis. ([Complementary Therapies in Medicine, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15130571/))
- A prototype body cream containing bee venom, propolis, honey, beeswax, and royal jelly demonstrated stability for 90 days, high antioxidant capacity of 85.45%, lack of cytotoxicity with over 70% cell viability, and no irritation or allergic reaction in dermatological analysis, while improving skin parameters in a panel test. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35238152/))
- MUD1 protected human dermal fibroblasts against AAPH-induced oxidative stress by increasing cell viability, reducing oxidative damage, improving mitochondrial functionality, and enhancing wound healing capacities. ([International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30235888/))

## What reviewers say

Users frequently report that the product separates into oil and water, and some find its texture too heavy or greasy for acne-prone skin.

- Liked: Restores skin barrier (mostly mentioned)
- Disliked: Product separation (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Rich and protective (often mentioned)
- Liked: Soothing and calming (often mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle formula (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Versatile healing (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Greasy texture (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Acne breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Packaging issues (rarely noted)
- Disliked: White cast (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Could be used as part of your AM and PM routine. Start using it 3 times a week and move to daily use if your skin likes it.
- Apply this moisturizer after your cleanser and toner, right before your morning SPF.
- Gently press a small amount of the moisturizer into your skin. Avoid rubbing it too hard so it absorbs nicely.
- For the best moisture, you can apply it when your skin is slightly damp. This helps your skin stay soft and happy.
- Remember to avoid the eye area when applying. Always do a patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/2f72f5d69f07beeafc30237f829efbff.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Avène Cicalfate Repair Cream a great fit for skin with dark spots?

Avène Cicalfate Repair Cream is a great fit because glycerin and caprylic capric triglyceride help keep your skin hydrated and support your skin barrier, while zinc oxide and copper sulfate provide soothing benefits. It has an excellent safety profile and is very unlikely to irritate your skin.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [Life, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37109405/)

### Which ingredients make this cream a good fit for skin with dark spots?

Zinc oxide and copper sulfate make this cream a good fit for skin with dark spots by providing soothing and healing benefits. It has an excellent safety profile with no risk of irritation, making it gentle for daily use.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22270204/)

### What does Zinc Oxide do for skin with dark spots?

Zinc oxide helps improve dark spots, melasma, and age spots when used regularly in skin preparations. Clinical studies show that preparations containing zinc oxide can successfully reduce unwanted skin darkening and even out skin tone while remaining very gentle and non-irritating.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41493259/)

### What does Glycerin do for skin with dark spots?

Glycerin helps keep dry skin hydrated and supports a healthy skin barrier, which makes skin feel soft and smooth. While it does not directly fade dark spots on its own, it is often added to spot-fading products to keep the skin comfortable while other ingredients work.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [Acta Dermato-venereologica, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27349297/)

### Where does this cream go in a skincare routine for skin with dark spots?

This moisturizing treatment goes in the evening routine after your cleansing toner, or in the morning routine before your sunscreen. It is a great fit for your skin, offering soothing and hydrating benefits with an excellent safety profile that is unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32239984/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

You can use this cream with retinol by applying the cream first to keep your skin calm and hydrated, followed by your retinol. This approach helps reduce the irritation often caused by retinol while supporting your skin barrier.
Sources: [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17121065/)

### How often should I use this cream?

This cream is a great fit and is gentle enough for daily use to help keep your skin hydrated and calm. Applying a moisturizing treatment regularly supports your skin barrier and improves overall texture over time.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32141711/), [Health Science Reports, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34141902/)

### Can this cream clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for skin with dark spots?

This cream is unlikely to cause breakouts or clog pores for skin with dark spots, as the risk of acne breakouts is low and it has an excellent safety profile without harsh ingredients. Reviewers occasionally mention a greasy texture, but the formula is very safe for your skin.

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

Yes, you can use this moisturizing treatment around the eyes and on your body because its safety profile is excellent and it is very well tolerated by the skin. The eyelid is among the thinnest body regions, but this cream contains soothing and gentle ingredients that make it suitable for delicate areas.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for skin with dark spots

- [Allies of Skin Peptides & Antioxidants Firming Daily Treatment](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/allies-of-skin/peptides-and-antioxidants-firming-daily-treatment/for/dark-spots) — High fit — CA$98.99 at Amazon
- [SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Enrich Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skin1004/madagascar-centella-probio-cica-enrich-cream/for/dark-spots) — High fit — CA$30.98 at Amazon
- [The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-ha/for/dark-spots) — High fit — CA$16.20 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — CA$20.96 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Pyunkang Yul Calming Deep Moisture Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/pyunkang-yul/calming-deep-moisture-toner/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — CA$23.99 at Amazon
- SPF: [Torriden DIVE-IN Mild Sunscreen](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/torriden/dive-in-mild-sunscreen/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — CA$27.34 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.ca: CA$22.99 (https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0B8PCZL92?tag=lovi-care-web-product01-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Shoppers Drug Mart: CA$19.70 (https://www.shoppersdrugmart.ca/avene-cicalfate-restorative-protective-cream-with-zinc-o/p/BB_673914090452?variantCode=673914115308)
Prices checked 10 Oct – 3 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Mineral Oil, Glycerin, Hydrogenated Oil, Zinc Oxide, Propylene Glycol, Polyglyceryl-2 Sesquiisostearate, Peg-22 Dodecyl Glycol Copolymer, Aluminum Stearate, Aquaphilus Dolomiae Ferment Filtrate, Arginine, Beeswax, Copper Sulfate, Magnesium Stearate, Microcrystalline Wax, Tromethamine, Zinc Sulfate
## 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/avene/cicalfate-repair-cream/for/dark-spots
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/avene/cicalfate-repair-cream/for/dark-spots
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/avene/cicalfate-repair-cream/for/dark-spots
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/avene/cicalfate-repair-cream/for/dark-spots
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/avene/cicalfate-repair-cream/for/dark-spots
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/avene/cicalfate-repair-cream/for/dark-spots
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/avene/cicalfate-repair-cream/for/dark-spots
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/avene/cicalfate-repair-cream/for/dark-spots
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/avene/cicalfate-repair-cream/for/dark-spots (this page)
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/avene/cicalfate-repair-cream/for/dark-spots
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/avene/cicalfate-repair-cream/for/dark-spots
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/avene/cicalfate-repair-cream/for/dark-spots
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/avene/cicalfate-repair-cream/for/dark-spots