# Dr. Althea Amino Gel 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/it/p/dr-althea/amino-gel-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 Italy.

Brand: [Dr. Althea](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/brands/dr-althea)
Category: [Cleansers](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/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, as cocamidopropyl betaine and sodium cocoyl isethionate effectively remove impurities from pores, while glycerin provides some hydration.
- While beneficial for general skin health, the formula does not contain specific ingredients to target your main goal of pigmentation.
- The product is safe for your normal skin, with no identified risks of irritation due to the absence of harsh or prohibited substances.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Betula Platyphylla Japonica Juice, Glycerin

## 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/))
- Sodium cocoyl isethionate micelles are too large to penetrate stratum corneum aqueous pores, resulting in significant steric hindrance that prevents skin barrier perturbation and explains its skin mildness. ([Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17598025/))
- Betula alba bark extract and Empetrum nigrum fruit juice upregulated barrier genes, strengthened the skin barrier, and showed significantly better skin restructuring, hydration, and TEWL compared to placebo and 3% niacinamide. ([International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36293365/))
- 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/))

## Why other cleansers fit skin with dark spots better

- Niacinamide significantly decreased hyperpigmentation and increased skin lightness compared with vehicle alone after 4 weeks of use in women by inhibiting melanosome transfer. ([The British Journal of Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12100180/))

## What reviewers say

Based on limited data, this gel-to-foam cleanser is highly regarded by users with sensitive, oily, and acne-prone skin for its effective yet gentle cleansing. It is frequently praised for leaving the skin feeling soft and hydrated without stripping its natural moisture barrier, and is noted for its soothing properties. Some users with specific dehydration concerns found it slightly drying, and a few mentioned it requires effort to lather.

- Liked: Gentle & non-stripping (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Soothing for sensitive (often mentioned)
- Liked: Hydrating finish (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Pleasant texture (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Lathering effort (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Residue feeling (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Slightly drying (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 Dr. Althea Amino Gel work for skin with dark spots?

Dr. Althea Amino Gel Cleanser is an average fit for skin with dark spots because it safely cleanses normal skin and provides some hydration, but it lacks ingredients to target pigmentation. A cleanser for this skin needs high-quality ingredients like niacinamide and ceramides to effectively address dark spots while providing gentle cleansing and excellent safety.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17598025/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

This cleanser works for your skin because glycerin helps keep your skin soft and hydrated while gentle cleansers clear out pores, though it lacks targeted ingredients for dark spots. Skin of this type with dark spots needs cleansers with safe, soothing ingredients like niacinamide and ceramides to fade discoloration while keeping your skin calm and balanced.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

Water is unlikely to directly reduce dark spots on its own, but staying properly hydrated helps maintain overall skin health and supports the skin barrier. To effectively target dark spots, your skincare routine also needs specialized antioxidant substances and brightening ingredients like niacinamide.
Sources: [Annals of Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38816975/)

### What does Birch Juice do for skin with dark spots?

Birch juice helps hydrate dry skin and may improve the look of dark spots by giving your face a smoother, more even tone. Products for this skin also need ingredients like vitamin C or niacinamide to help fade discoloration.

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

This cleanser goes in the morning and evening routine right before your hydrating or cleansing toner. A product for this skin needs added brightening ingredients like vitamin C or niacinamide to help fade dark spots.

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

You can use this cleanser in your routine, but a product for this skin needs targeted brightening ingredients like vitamin C or niacinamide to help fade dark spots.

### How often should I use this cleanser?

You can use this cleanser daily in the morning and evening as part of your normal skincare routine. It gently washes away impurities while helping keep your skin safe and comfortable. Skin with dark spots works best with a cleanser that adds brightening ingredients to help fade discoloration.
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 on skin with dark spots because it uses gentle cleansers that rinse clean without leaving a heavy film. However, since it lacks ingredients that target dark spots, this skin type needs a product that includes brightening ingredients like vitamin C or niacinamide to help fade discoloration.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17598025/)

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

You can use this cleanser on your body and around your eyes, as it is safe for normal skin and unlikely to cause irritation. However, skin on the body and around the eyes needs cleansers with extra soothing ingredients and targeted brighteners to fade dark spots.

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for skin with dark spots

- [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — €24.75 at Amazon
- [La Roche-Posay Hydrating Gentle Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/la-roche-posay/toleriane-hydrating-gentle-cleanser/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — €17.59 at Amazon
- [Pyunkang Yul Deep Cleansing Foam](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/pyunkang-yul/deep-cleansing-foam/for/dark-spots) — High fit — €15.48 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Hydrating Toner: [Pyunkang Yul Calming Deep Moisture Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/pyunkang-yul/calming-deep-moisture-toner/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — €15.16 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Some By Mi Yuja Niacin Brightening Moisture Gel Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/some-by-mi/yuja-niacin-brightening-moisture-gel-cream/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — €18.06 at Amazon
- SPF: [d'Alba UVessence Mild Waterfull Sun Cream SPF 50](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/d-alba/uvessence-mild-waterfull-sun-cream-spf-50/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — €20.40 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.it: €13.50 (https://www.amazon.it/dp/B0CLGGP723?tag=lovi-care-web-product09-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Lookfantastic: €11.25 (https://www.lookfantastic.it/p/dr.-althea-green-relief-amino-gel-cleanser-100ml/17680169/)
- Notino: €13.50 (https://www.notino.it/dr-althea/green-relief-amino-gel-cleanser-gel-di-pulizia-profonda-effetto-idratante/p-16346178/)
Prices checked 16 Oct – 5 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Betula Platyphylla Japonica Juice, Glycerin, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Sodium Chloride, 1,2-Hexanediol, Butylene Glycol, Sodium Benzoate, Citric Acid, Disodium Edta
## 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/dr-althea/amino-gel-cleanser/for/dark-spots
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/dr-althea/amino-gel-cleanser/for/dark-spots
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/dr-althea/amino-gel-cleanser/for/dark-spots
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/dr-althea/amino-gel-cleanser/for/dark-spots
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/dr-althea/amino-gel-cleanser/for/dark-spots
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/dr-althea/amino-gel-cleanser/for/dark-spots (this page)
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/dr-althea/amino-gel-cleanser/for/dark-spots
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/dr-althea/amino-gel-cleanser/for/dark-spots
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/dr-althea/amino-gel-cleanser/for/dark-spots
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/dr-althea/amino-gel-cleanser/for/dark-spots
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/dr-althea/amino-gel-cleanser/for/dark-spots
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/dr-althea/amino-gel-cleanser/for/dark-spots
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/dr-althea/amino-gel-cleanser/for/dark-spots