# Shiseido Clarifying Cleansing Foam for skin with dark spots

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/shiseido/clarifying-cleansing-foam/for/dark-spots

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

Brand: [Shiseido](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/brands/shiseido)
Category: [Cleansers](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/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 Stearic Acid and Myristic Acid, which effectively remove impurities, but lacks ingredients to address your primary concern of pigmentation.
- While Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate and Silk Powder provide beneficial humectant and emollient actions for normal skin, they do not directly target pigmentation concerns.
- The product is safe for your normal skin, as it contains no harsh ingredients and poses no irritation risks.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/shiseido/clarifying-cleansing-foam/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/shiseido/clarifying-cleansing-foam/for/dry-skin): Caution
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/shiseido/clarifying-cleansing-foam/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/shiseido/clarifying-cleansing-foam/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/shiseido/clarifying-cleansing-foam/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/shiseido/clarifying-cleansing-foam/for/dark-spots): Average (this page)
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/shiseido/clarifying-cleansing-foam/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/shiseido/clarifying-cleansing-foam/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Low
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/shiseido/clarifying-cleansing-foam/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Glycerin, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Rice Germ Oil, Silk Powder

## What the research says

- Tripotassium phosphate (TPP) solutions and mixtures of TPP with lauric or myristic acid exhibited strong microbicidal activity against various gram-negative bacteria, gram-positive bacteria, and yeasts in vitro, and washing processed broiler chicken skin with TPP and fatty acid mixtures significantly reduced populations of aerobic bacteria, campylobacters, E. coli, pseudomonads, and yeasts. ([Journal of Food Protection, 2005](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16013388/))
- A bacterial nanocellulose wound dressing incorporating polyhexamethylene biguanide and sericin showed no skin irritation in healthy volunteers and significantly promoted wound healing with lower wound size and higher collagen formation in full-thickness rat wounds compared to controls. ([Archives of Dermatological Research, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26796543/))
- A topical xanthan gum nanogel containing gamma-oryzanol-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers and nanosized TiO2 and MBBT filters demonstrated high photoprotection with an SPF of 34 and no skin irritation or sensitization in a rat model. ([Pharmaceuticals, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37242453/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- Topical application of sericin gels increased skin intrinsic moisturization, hydroxyproline content, and epidermal hydration while decreasing transepidermal water loss and skin impedance in healthy human volunteers. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2005](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17168872/))
- Silk fibroin wound dressings exhibit anti-inflammatory and pro-angiogenic properties that accelerate skin wound healing compared to commercially available dressings in preclinical and clinical settings. ([Biomolecules, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36551280/))
- Silk sericin-releasing bacterial nanocellulose gel demonstrated improved mechanical properties, controlled sericin release, non-cytotoxicity on L929 and HaCaT cells, and non-irritancy in subcutaneous tissue compared to a commercially available paper mask. ([BMC Biotechnology, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25487808/))

## 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, this cleanser is highly regarded by users with oily and combination skin for its effective deep cleansing and luxurious lather, leaving skin feeling soft. A small amount is needed, making it efficient. Some users with dry or sensitive skin report it can be drying or cause irritation, and a moderate number of users find it to be pricey.

- Liked: Deep cleansing (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Rich lather (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: High efficiency (often mentioned)
- Liked: Softens skin (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Drying or stripping (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: High price point (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Skin irritation (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Strong fragrance (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 Shiseido Clarifying Cleansing Foam work for skin with dark spots?

This cleanser works moderately well for your skin, though it does not target dark spots. A cleanser for this skin needs ingredients that help brighten the skin while cleansing it gently without causing irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Food Protection, 2005](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16013388/), [Pharmaceuticals, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37242453/)

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

This cleanser lacks ingredients that directly target dark spots, so it is only an average fit for your skin. Skin with dark spots needs a product of this type that effectively addresses pigmentation with soothing and hydrating ingredients while safely cleansing.
Sources: [Pharmaceuticals, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37242453/)

### 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/)

### What does Cocamidopropyl Betaine do for skin with dark spots?

Cocamidopropyl Betaine is a cleansing agent rather than an active ingredient that targets dark spots, so it does not directly fade them. Skin with dark spots needs cleansers containing targeted brightening or exfoliating ingredients to help even out skin tone.

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

This cleanser goes in the morning and evening steps of your routine to wash away impurities safely, though a cleanser for this skin needs added brightening ingredients to target dark spots directly.

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

You can use this cleanser in your routine before applying your retinol treatment, as it cleans your skin safely without causing irritation. However, because this cleanser lacks ingredients that fade dark spots, a complete routine for this skin needs brightening ingredients like vitamin C or niacinamide to target pigmentation.

### How often should I use this cleanser?

You can use this cleanser daily as part of your morning and evening routine, because it provides safe and moderate cleansing for your skin. To properly address dark spots, this skin type needs a cleanser that also includes brightening ingredients.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32239984/)

### 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 it contains no harsh ingredients and has a low risk of skin irritation. However, it lacks brightening ingredients to actively fade dark spots, so a cleanser for this skin needs added antioxidants and targeted brightening ingredients.
Sources: [Archives of Dermatological Research, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26796543/)

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

You can use this cleanser on your body, but it is best to avoid the sensitive skin directly around your eyes. Cleansers of this type need a very gentle, tear-free formula to safely clean the thin skin in the eye area.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/)

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

It has no drying alcohol and contains fragrance (parfum, linalool, geraniol, and citronellol).

## Alternatives for skin with dark spots

- [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — €56.86 at Amazon
- [IS Clinical Cleansing Complex](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/is-clinical/cleansing-complex/for/dark-spots) — High fit — €95.00 at Amazon
- [Missha Super Aqua Ultra Hyalron Cleansing Foam](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/missha/super-aqua-ultra-hyalron-cleansing-foam/for/dark-spots) — High fit — €11.92 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Hydrating Toner: [La Mer The Tonic](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/la-mer/the-tonic/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — €115.30 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Some By Mi Yuja Niacin Brightening Moisture Gel Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/some-by-mi/yuja-niacin-brightening-moisture-gel-cream/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — €18.99 at Amazon
- SPF: [d'Alba UVessence Mild Waterfull Sun Cream SPF 50](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/d-alba/uvessence-mild-waterfull-sun-cream-spf-50/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — €17.42 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Notino: €40.90 (https://www.notino.ie/shiseido/generic-skincare-clarifying-cleansing-foam-active-cleansing-foam/p-16390944/)
Prices checked 17 Oct 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Stearic Acid, Peg-8, Myristic Acid, Glycerin, Potassium Hydroxide, Dipropylene Glycol, Lauric Acid, Glyceryl Stearate Se, Sorbitol, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Peg-60 Glyceryl Isostearate, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Phytosteryl Macadamiate, Parfum, Polyquaternium-39, Disodium Edta, Rice Germ Oil, Linalool, Geraniol, Citronellol, Kaolin, Sodium Benzoate, Butylene Glycol, Acrylates Copolymer, Betaine, Silk Powder Serica Poudre De Soie Powder, Tocopherol, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Artemisia Princeps Leaf Extract, Sodium Lauryl 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/shiseido/clarifying-cleansing-foam/for/dark-spots
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/shiseido/clarifying-cleansing-foam/for/dark-spots
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/shiseido/clarifying-cleansing-foam/for/dark-spots (this page)
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/shiseido/clarifying-cleansing-foam/for/dark-spots
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/shiseido/clarifying-cleansing-foam/for/dark-spots
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/shiseido/clarifying-cleansing-foam/for/dark-spots
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/shiseido/clarifying-cleansing-foam/for/dark-spots
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/shiseido/clarifying-cleansing-foam/for/dark-spots
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/shiseido/clarifying-cleansing-foam/for/dark-spots
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/shiseido/clarifying-cleansing-foam/for/dark-spots
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/shiseido/clarifying-cleansing-foam/for/dark-spots
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/shiseido/clarifying-cleansing-foam/for/dark-spots
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/shiseido/clarifying-cleansing-foam/for/dark-spots