# Perricone MD Nutritive Cleanser for skin with dark spots

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/perricone-md/nutritive-cleanser/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: [Perricone MD](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/brands/perricone-md)
Category: [Cleansers](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/best/cleansers)

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.

Works for skin with dark spots; other cleansers fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate cleansing for your normal skin due to Sodium Laureth Sulfate and Lauryl Glucoside, which help decongest pores but do not directly address your main goal of pigmentation.
- Citric Acid provides mild exfoliation suitable for normal skin, though the formula lacks sufficient humectants for optimal hydration.
- The product is safe for your normal skin, as it contains no harsh or prohibited ingredients and carries no risk of irritation.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Alpha Lipoic Acid, Copper Gluconate, Zinc Gluconate, Dimethyl Mea Dmae, Aha Complex

## What the research says

- Topical 30% P407 gel loaded with ALA cubosomes reduced facial lines, nearly resolved fine lines in the periorbital and upper lip areas, and improved skin color and texture without irritation or peeling in volunteers. ([European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24056055/))
- Application of 5% cubosomal alpha lipoic acid gel twice daily for 6 months significantly improved global aesthetic scores and increased epidermal thickness compared to placebo in 20 aging female faces. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27873449/))
- Treatment with a cream containing 5% alpha-lipoic acid for 12 weeks reduces skin roughness by an average of 50.8% compared to 40.7% with placebo in women with photoaged facial skin. ([The British Journal of Dermatology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14616378/))
- Zinc gluconate induced alpha2, alpha3, alphaV, and alpha6 integrins, copper gluconate induced alpha2, alpha6, and beta1, and manganese gluconate induced most studied integrins in cultured keratinocytes. ([The British Journal of Dermatology, 1999](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10215764/))
- A dermocosmetic cream containing Punica granatum Pericarp extract, Salicylic acid, Niacinamide, Zinc gluconate, and Aqua Posae Filiformis significantly decreased inflammatory, non-inflammatory, and total lesion counts in subjects with mild to moderate acne compared to untreated hemi-faces after 15 days. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41487026/))
- Daily use of a deep cleansing gel containing salicylic acid 2%, zinc gluconate 0.2% and lipohydroxy acid 0.05% significantly reduced total lesion count by 56.3% after 84 days in 35 subjects with mild to moderate truncal acne. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36698447/))
- Different strains of Propionibacterium acnes modulate cutaneous innate immunity with varying pro-inflammatory potentials, with P. acnes type III showing the highest and P. avidum the weakest, and zinc gluconate down-regulates the expression of most induced immune markers. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23947673/))
- Daily application of 3% DMAE facial gel for 16 weeks safely and efficaciously mitigates forehead lines and periorbital fine wrinkles, improves lip shape and fullness and overall aging skin appearance, and increases skin firmness compared to placebo. ([American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2005](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15675889/))
- A gel containing 3% 2-dimethylaminoethanol (DMAE) increased skin firmness, demonstrated by increased shear wave velocity in 30 volunteers compared to a formulation without DMAE. ([Skin Research and Technology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12236885/))
- A DMAE-based formulation increased dermal and collagen fiber thickness in hairless mice and enhanced stratum corneum water content in human forearm skin compared to control formulations, without significantly modifying mechanical properties. ([Die Pharmazie, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20095140/))

## Why other cleansers fit skin with dark spots better

- Transgenic cucumber expressing poly-γ-glutamic acid synthesis genes increased water content by 6-14%, reduced water loss by 11-12%, decreased facial wrinkles and roughness by 19.58% and 24.97%, decreased skin melanin by 5.27%, and improved facial elasticity in human skin and zebrafish compared to controls. ([International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38336313/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users frequently praise this gel cleanser for its ability to thoroughly remove makeup and oil without stripping the skin's natural moisture barrier, making it a favorite for those with normal to dry skin. Many report softer, brighter, and more radiant skin after use, though a notable minority of users express dissatisfaction with the product's strong fragrance and the recent packaging change from a glass bottle to a plastic tube.

- Liked: Gentle and non-drying (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Effective makeup remover (often mentioned)
- Liked: Anti-aging benefits (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Improves skin texture (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Packaging issues (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant scent (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Eye irritation (rarely noted)
- Disliked: High price point (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- You can use this cleanser AM and PM every single day. Start slowly 3 times a week and move to daily use if your skin likes it.
- Apply this cleanser as the first step in your morning routine or the second step in your evening routine. Follow it with toner and moisturizer.
- Massage a small amount of cleanser gently onto your face using circular motions. Rinse well with lukewarm water and pat dry.
- For the best results, apply your cleanser directly to wet skin to help wash away dirt. Make sure your face is clean before you begin.
- Avoid getting the cleanser in your eyes. Always do a quick patch test before using the product for the very first time.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/6a08416bd9315041c09c72f61cf27cc1.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does Perricone MD Nutritive Cleanser work for skin with dark spots?

This cleanser is an average fit for skin with dark spots because it gently washes the face and offers mild exfoliation, but it does not directly target pigmentation. A cleanser for this skin needs to safely wash without stripping moisture while including soothing and hydrating ingredients that support skin brightening.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33617668/), [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24617572/)

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

Citric acid makes this cleanser a fit for your dark spots by providing mild exfoliation, though it lacks direct pigment-fading ingredients and extra hydrators. A cleanser for dark spots needs soothing and hydrating ingredients, plus safe brighteners that clean without stripping moisture.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33617668/), [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24617572/)

### What does Alpha Lipoic Acid do for skin with dark spots?

Alpha lipoic acid helps protect skin from oxidative stress and everyday environmental damage that can lead to dark spots and premature aging. Using it may keep your skin looking more even and smooth over time.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14616378/), [Free Radical Biology & Medicine, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18538675/)

### What does Copper Gluconate do for skin with dark spots?

Copper Gluconate helps manage skin with dark spots by supporting normal renewal and keeping the skin balanced. This ingredient is unlikely to cause irritation and works well to keep your complexion clear and smooth.

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

This cleanser goes in the morning and evening routine after your makeup remover, to help clear pores while leaving your skin calm and safe from irritation. Because it does not directly target pigmentation, a dark spot routine needs extra treatments with active ingredients and hydrating hydrators or moisturizers to effectively brighten your skin.

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

You can use this cleanser in your routine when using retinol, applying it first to clean your skin before your retinol treatment. A cleanser for this skin needs added brightening ingredients and hydrating components to better target dark spots.

### How often should I use this cleanser?

You can use this cleanser daily in the morning and evening as part of your routine. It cleanses well and gently exfoliates with citric acid, though a cleanser for dark spots works best when it also includes targeted brightening ingredients.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32239984/), [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24617572/)

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

This cleanser is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for skin with dark spots because its cleansing ingredients help decongest pores safely. However, a product for this skin needs stronger brightening ingredients and extra hydration to truly help fade dark spots.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24617572/)

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

This cleanser is safe for use around the eyes and on the body, as it contains no harsh ingredients and is unlikely to cause irritation. However, since the thin skin around the eyes and the skin on the body have different thicknesses and needs, a cleanser for this skin needs targeted hydrating ingredients and components that directly address dark spots.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/), [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24617572/)

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

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

## Alternatives for skin with dark spots

- [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — CA$44.95 at Amazon
- [IS Clinical Cleansing Complex](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/is-clinical/cleansing-complex/for/dark-spots) — High fit — CA$82.99 at Amazon
- [Missha Super Aqua Ultra Hyalron Cleansing Foam](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/missha/super-aqua-ultra-hyalron-cleansing-foam/for/dark-spots) — High fit — CA$17.34 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- 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
- Moisturizer: [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
- 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

- Shoppers Drug Mart: CA$59.00 (https://www.shoppersdrugmart.ca/perricone-md-high-potency-nutritive-cleanser/p/BB_651473709992?variantCode=651473709992)
Prices checked 15 Oct 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Lauryl Glucoside, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Ppg-2 Hydroxyethyl Coco Isostearamide, Dimethyl Mea Dmae, Citric Acid, Sodium Chloride, Thioctic Acid Alpha-Lipoic Acid, Disodium Edta, Parfum, Benzophenone-4, Magnesium Aspartate, Zinc Gluconate, Copper Gluconate, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Methylisothiazolinone
## 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/perricone-md/nutritive-cleanser/for/dark-spots
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/perricone-md/nutritive-cleanser/for/dark-spots
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/perricone-md/nutritive-cleanser/for/dark-spots
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/perricone-md/nutritive-cleanser/for/dark-spots
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/perricone-md/nutritive-cleanser/for/dark-spots
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/perricone-md/nutritive-cleanser/for/dark-spots
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/perricone-md/nutritive-cleanser/for/dark-spots
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/perricone-md/nutritive-cleanser/for/dark-spots
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/perricone-md/nutritive-cleanser/for/dark-spots (this page)
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/perricone-md/nutritive-cleanser/for/dark-spots
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/perricone-md/nutritive-cleanser/for/dark-spots
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/perricone-md/nutritive-cleanser/for/dark-spots
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/perricone-md/nutritive-cleanser/for/dark-spots