# Neutrogena Clear Pore Cleanser/Mask for skin with dark spots

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/neutrogena/clear-pore-cleanser-mask/for/dark-spots

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

Brand: [Neutrogena](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/brands/neutrogena)
Category: [Face masks](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/best/face-masks)

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.

A poor match for skin with dark spots; the cleansing masks alongside fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate exfoliation for pigmentation and acne-prone skin due to the presence of benzoyl peroxide, which fights acne and reduces hyperpigmentation, though it is not ideal for your normal skin type.
- Kaolin and bentonite clays absorb excess oil, which is not a primary concern for your normal skin, and glycerin provides some hydration.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/neutrogena/clear-pore-cleanser-mask/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/neutrogena/clear-pore-cleanser-mask/for/dry-skin): Caution
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/neutrogena/clear-pore-cleanser-mask/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/neutrogena/clear-pore-cleanser-mask/for/sensitive-skin): Caution
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/neutrogena/clear-pore-cleanser-mask/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/neutrogena/clear-pore-cleanser-mask/for/dark-spots): Caution (this page)
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/neutrogena/clear-pore-cleanser-mask/for/mature-skin): Caution
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/neutrogena/clear-pore-cleanser-mask/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Caution
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/neutrogena/clear-pore-cleanser-mask/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Benzoyl Peroxide, Glycerin, Kaolin, Bentonite, Menthol

## What the research says

- Topical benzoyl peroxide may improve acne more effectively than placebo or no treatment, while showing little to no difference compared with adapalene or clindamycin, but with an increased risk of treatment discontinuation due to adverse effects compared to placebo. ([The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32175593/))
- Preoperative treatment with benzoyl peroxide significantly decreases the bacterial skin load of Cutibacterium acnes in patients undergoing elective shoulder surgery from skin incision until wound closure compared to preparation with soap. ([Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33545336/))
- Once-daily fixed-dose clindamycin phosphate 1.2%/benzoyl peroxide 3.1%/adapalene 0.15% gel achieved superior treatment success (52.5%) and greater reductions in inflammatory and noninflammatory lesions compared to vehicle (8.1%) and dyad component gels in participants with moderate-to-severe acne over 12 weeks. ([American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34674160/))
- 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/))
- Twice daily application of a multitargeted dermocosmetic cream provided comparable efficacy to benzoyl peroxide 5% gel in reducing inflammatory, non-inflammatory, and total lesions in 150 Caucasian subjects with mild-to-moderate acne over 56 days, while demonstrating superior skin tolerability. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/))
- Topical clindamycin phosphate 1.2%/adapalene 0.15%/benzoyl peroxide 3.1% gel achieved significantly greater treatment success and lesion reductions compared to vehicle in participants with moderate-to-severe acne. ([Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37656094/))
- Daily application of adapalene 0.3%/benzoyl peroxide 2.5% gel reduced and prevented atrophic acne scar formation, achieving a total scar count change of -15.5% versus +14.4% for vehicle over 24 weeks in 67 subjects with moderate or severe facial acne. ([American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29549588/))
- 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/))
- Vectorization of high molecular weight hyaluronic acid with clay enabled its penetration into deeper skin layers and led to a significant clinical reduction in fine lines in the crow's feet area compared to placebo after 28 days. ([Skin Research and Technology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38591218/))
- Twice-weekly use of a clay mask over 4 weeks in 75 adults with oily or combination skin improved acne-related outcomes, sebum content, skin evenness, hydration, and reduced dryness and irritation. ([Skin Research and Technology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38009030/))
- Clay jojoba oil facial masks reduced total skin lesions by a mean of 54% after 6 weeks in 133 participants with acne-prone, lesioned skin and mild acne compared to baseline. ([Forschende Komplementarmedizin, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22585103/))
- Quaternized carboxymethyl chitosan/organic montmorillonite nanocomposite demonstrated superior moisture-adsorption and retention compared to hyaluronic acid, good UV-protection ability, negligible dermal irritation, and prominent moisture-retention efficacy on human stratum corneum when formulated into a cosmetic cream. ([Carbohydrate Polymers, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28732847/))
- A novel water-in-oil emulsion with a lecithin-modified bentonite prevented epidermal degradation and inflammatory protein secretion induced by urban dust and cedar pollen more effectively than a conventional water-in-oil emulsion in a reconstructed human epidermis model. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31995229/))
- Bentonite nanoparticles and honey co-administration improved skin wound healing in BALB/c mice by reducing inflammatory cell infiltration and increasing fibroblastosis, new epithelium thickness, granulation area, and collagen density compared to the untreated control group. ([The International Journal of Lower Extremity Wounds, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35950795/))
- 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

Based on a very large amount of data, users find this product to be a highly effective 2-in-1 cleanser and mask for acne and oil control. It is frequently praised for deep cleaning and reducing pore appearance. However, a moderate number of users report that it can cause dryness and irritation, particularly for sensitive skin, and it is also noted to bleach fabrics.

- Liked: Clears acne (often mentioned)
- Liked: Versatile 2-in-1 (often mentioned)
- Liked: Cooling sensation (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Deep clean pores (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Bleaches fabrics (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Drying and irritation (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Burning sensation (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Strong scent (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this cleansing mask once a week to start, and increase frequency only if your skin feels fine.
- Apply the cleansing mask in your weekly routine after the cleanser and enzyme powder, but before the hydrating toner.
- Spread an even layer over your face while carefully avoiding the delicate eye area.
- Apply the cleansing mask to clean and dry skin for the best and most comfortable results.
- Always do a patch test before your first use and avoid combining it with strong acids.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/6089f210022bdd96805c3bf12c9a44a3.mp4

## Questions and answers

### Why does Lovi advise caution with Neutrogena Clear Pore Cleanser/Mask for skin with dark spots?

This cleanser and mask is a poor match because it absorbs extra oil, which is not a primary concern for your normal skin, and benzoyl peroxide is not ideal for your skin type even though it helps fight acne and pigmentation. A product of this type needs effective exfoliating ingredients that brighten your complexion without risking irritation, along with hydrating and nourishing components like niacinamide and hyaluronic acid to keep normal skin soft and smooth.
Sources: [The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32175593/)

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

Benzoyl peroxide, kaolin, and bentonite make this a poor match because they fight acne and absorb oil, which are not primary concerns for your normal skin. Skin with dark spots needs products that contain effective exfoliating and brightening ingredients like niacinamide and hyaluronic acid to promote a brighter complexion while keeping it hydrated and smooth.
Sources: [The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32175593/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What does Benzoyl Peroxide do for skin with dark spots?

Benzoyl peroxide helps clear breakouts, but for skin with dark spots, this type of product needs added brightening ingredients like niacinamide to effectively fade discoloration.
Sources: [The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34804354/)

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

This cleanser is a poor match for your normal skin with dark spots because it is designed to fight acne and absorb extra oil. A product of this type needs gentle brightening ingredients and extra moisture to help fade dark spots without drying out normal skin.

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

Using this cleanser with retinol requires caution since it may easily dry out and irritate your skin. A product of this type needs soothing ingredients and extra moisture to protect the skin barrier when paired with retinol.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37276158/)

### How often should I use this cleanser?

This cleansing mask is a poor match for your normal skin, so it should be used cautiously or avoided. Skin with dark spots typically needs gentle brightening ingredients and nourishing hydration rather than strong acne-fighting clays and benzoyl peroxide.
Sources: [The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32175593/)

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

This cleanser is unlikely to clog pores because it contains acne-fighting benzoyl peroxide and oil-absorbing clays. However, it may cause dryness and irritation on normal skin, so skin with dark spots needs a gentle cleanser with soothing and hydrating ingredients instead.
Sources: [The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32175593/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

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

## Alternatives for skin with dark spots

- [Herbivore Botanicals Blue Tansy Resurfacing Clarity Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/herbivore-botanicals/blue-tansy-bha-and-enzyme-pore-refining-mask/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — €79.97 at Amazon
- [Dr. Sebagh Deep Exfoliating Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/dr-sebagh/deep-exfoliating-mask/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — €83.40 at Amazon
- [Sulwhasoo Clarifying Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/sulwhasoo/clarifying-mask/for/dark-spots) — Average fit — €47.00 at Amazon

## Routine for skin with dark spots

### AM

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — €11.35 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [La Mer The Tonic](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/la-mer/the-tonic/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — €10.25 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Isntree Green Tea Fresh Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/isntree/green-tea-fresh-serum/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — €12.56 at Amazon
- SPF: [Torriden DIVE-IN Mild Sunscreen](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/torriden/dive-in-mild-sunscreen/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — €24.00 at Amazon

### PM

- Pre-Cleanser: [Pyunkang Yul Deep Clear Cleansing Balm](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/pyunkang-yul/deep-clear-cleansing-balm/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — €15.90 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — €11.35 at Amazon
- Cleansing Toner: [REN Clean Skincare Ready Steady Glow Daily AHA Tonic](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/ren-clean-skincare/ready-steady-glow-daily-aha-tonic/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — €50.00 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/peach-and-lily/glass-skin-refining-serum/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — €86.15 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Isntree Green Tea Fresh Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/isntree/green-tea-fresh-serum/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — €12.56 at Amazon

### Weekly

- Pre-Cleanser: [Pyunkang Yul Deep Clear Cleansing Balm](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/pyunkang-yul/deep-clear-cleansing-balm/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — €15.90 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — €11.35 at Amazon
- Enzyme Powder: [Fancl Facial Washing Powder](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/fancl/facial-washing-powder/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — €30.65 at Amazon
- Nourishing Mask: [Pyunkang Yul Calming Mask Pack](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/pyunkang-yul/calming-mask-pack/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — €18.99 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/peach-and-lily/glass-skin-refining-serum/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — €86.15 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Isntree Green Tea Fresh Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/isntree/green-tea-fresh-serum/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — €12.56 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.fr: €17.12 (https://www.amazon.fr/dp/B000T9197U?tag=lovi-care-web-product06-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 5 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Benzoyl Peroxide, Water, Glycerin, Kaolin, Bentonite, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Titanium Dioxide, Citric Acid, Xanthan Gum, Benzyl Alcohol, Sodium Citrate, Sodium Hydroxide, Disodium Edta, Menthol
## 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/clear-pore-cleanser-mask/for/dark-spots
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/neutrogena/clear-pore-cleanser-mask/for/dark-spots
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/neutrogena/clear-pore-cleanser-mask/for/dark-spots
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/neutrogena/clear-pore-cleanser-mask/for/dark-spots
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/neutrogena/clear-pore-cleanser-mask/for/dark-spots (this page)
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/neutrogena/clear-pore-cleanser-mask/for/dark-spots
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/neutrogena/clear-pore-cleanser-mask/for/dark-spots
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/neutrogena/clear-pore-cleanser-mask/for/dark-spots
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/neutrogena/clear-pore-cleanser-mask/for/dark-spots
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/neutrogena/clear-pore-cleanser-mask/for/dark-spots
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/neutrogena/clear-pore-cleanser-mask/for/dark-spots
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/neutrogena/clear-pore-cleanser-mask/for/dark-spots
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/neutrogena/clear-pore-cleanser-mask/for/dark-spots