# Shiseido Treatment Softener 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/it/p/shiseido/treatment-softener/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: [Shiseido](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/brands/shiseido)
Category: [Toners](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/best/toners)

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 great choice for skin with dark spots; a few toners fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Highly suitable for your normal skin due to the humectant action of glycerin and sodium hyaluronate, complemented by the antioxidant properties of Artemisia Princeps Leaf Extract.
- The product offers moderate benefits for pigmentation by supporting skin barrier function with sodium acetylated hyaluronate and sodium hyaluronate.
- The safety profile is excellent, with no risks of irritation for your normal skin due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the presence of soothing components like Theanine and Artemisia Princeps Leaf Extract.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Sodium Hyaluronate, Glycerin, Witch Hazel Leaf Extract, Sapindus Mukorossi Peel Extract, Theanine

## 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/))
- Artemisia princeps-derived nanovesicles accelerate cell proliferation, decrease senescence-associated beta-galactosidase activity, inhibit MMP-1 activity more effectively than EGCG, and increase procollagen type I expression in human dermal cells and skin models. ([Journal of Extracellular Biology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40292385/))
- Optimized transfersomes loaded with epigallocatechin-3-gallate and hyaluronic acid increased cell viability while reducing lipid peroxidation, intracellular ROS, and MMP expression in HaCaT cells, and exhibited higher skin permeation and deposition compared to plain EGCG. ([Drug Delivery, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28155509/))
- Oral and topical botanical products containing ingredients like ashwagandha, saffron, l-theanine, and tocopherol reduced facial redness and pigmentation and improved sleep and certain mood parameters in healthy females with sensitive skin compared to baseline. ([Journal of Clinical Medicine, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36431167/))
- Topical l-theanine pretreatment suppresses TPA-induced acute skin inflammation, ear edema, erythema, vascular permeability, and hyperplasia in mice by downregulating endothelial PECAM-1 and neutrophil infiltration and activation. ([Chemico-biological Interactions, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29458014/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- A Hamamelis virginiana leaf extract increased LOXL1 expression twofold, decreased elafin synthesis, restored functional elastic fibers, reduced nonfunctional elastin aggregates, decreased wrinkles, and improved skin firmness. ([Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30052192/))
- Hamamelis bark proanthocyanidins strongly increased the proliferation of cultured human keratinocytes and reduced transepidermal water loss and erythema formation in SLS-irritated skin, whereas the polysaccharide fraction had no effect. ([Phytochemistry, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11684194/))
- Witch hazel bark extract and hamamelitannin showed pronounced anti-inflammatory activity, supported keratinocyte migration in a wound healing assay, and inhibited Staphylococcus aureus growth, whereas their skin microbiota metabolite ellagic acid stimulated inflammatory mediator release. ([Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40819781/))
- Sapindus mukorossi seed oil promoted wound healing, cell proliferation, migration, and exhibited anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities in cells and in rats compared to untreated controls. ([International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31130677/))
- Sapindus mukorossi flower water extract exhibited antioxidant, antibacterial against Cutibacterium acnes, and anti-inflammatory activities by reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines in in vitro experiments. ([Current Issues in Molecular Biology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40699715/))
- Caprine dermal scaffolds prepared using 5% Sapindus mukorossi fruit pericarp extract effectively achieved complete decellularization while preserving extracellular matrix architecture and promoted full-thickness skin wound healing in rabbits comparable to autografts. ([Journal of Biomaterials Applications, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40112282/))

## What reviewers say

This product is highly regarded for its ability to significantly soften and hydrate the skin, acting as an effective prep step for subsequent skincare and makeup. It is praised for improving skin texture and balancing hydration across different skin types. A moderate number of users find the floral fragrance to be overpowering and consider the price point high for its formulation.

- Liked: Deep hydration (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Elegant texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Balances skin (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Enhances routine (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Pleasant scent (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: High price point (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Strong fragrance (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Confusing consistency (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Packaging issues (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Skin irritation (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your hydrating toner AM and PM every day to boost glow. Always pair with SPF in the morning to protect against dark spots.
- Apply your hydrating toner after cleansing and before moisturizer or SPF. This step preps your normal skin to better absorb the next products.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the hydrating toner into your skin with your hands. Avoid rubbing to keep your face calm and happy.
- Apply the hydrating toner on slightly damp skin to lock in extra moisture. This helps your normal skin stay plump and hydrated all day.
- Always avoid the direct eye area when applying. Do a quick patch test before your very first use to be safe.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/25abe7eb181ba53153fd15de2058c2a9.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Shiseido Treatment Softener a great fit for skin with dark spots?

Shiseido Treatment Softener is a great fit for skin with dark spots because it supports the skin barrier function with sodium acetylated hyaluronate and sodium hyaluronate, while also using glycerin and sodium hyaluronate to keep skin hydrated. It is very unlikely to cause irritation on normal skin due to the soothing properties of theanine and Artemisia Princeps Leaf Extract.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [Journal of Clinical Medicine, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36431167/)

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

Sodium hyaluronate and sodium acetylated hyaluronate make this toner a great fit for skin with dark spots by supporting the skin barrier. Theanine and Artemisia Princeps Leaf Extract also help by providing soothing and antioxidant benefits.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [Journal of Clinical Medicine, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36431167/)

### What does Hyaluronic Acid do for skin with dark spots?

Hyaluronic acid is unlikely to directly fade dark spots, but it helps keep dry and uneven skin plump and deeply hydrated. To effectively target dark spots, this type of skin needs brightening ingredients like vitamin C or niacinamide alongside your hydrator.

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

Use Shiseido Treatment Softener in the morning after cleansing and before your moisturizer. It is very unlikely to irritate your skin due to the soothing ingredients like Theanine and Artemisia Princeps Leaf Extract.
Sources: [Journal of Clinical Medicine, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36431167/), [Journal of Extracellular Biology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40292385/)

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

You can use this hydrating toner with retinol by applying the toner first to keep your skin smooth and prepped before your retinol product. Using a hydrating layer first helps support your skin barrier and is unlikely to cause irritation when combined with retinol.
Sources: [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17121065/)

### How often should I use it?

You can use this hydrating toner daily in your morning routine after cleansing and before your moisturizer. It is very unlikely to cause irritation on normal skin.
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 this toner clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for skin with dark spots?

This toner is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for skin with dark spots because it is free of heavy, pore-blocking ingredients and features soothing components like theanine and Artemisia Princeps leaf extract.
Sources: [Journal of Clinical Medicine, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36431167/), [Journal of Extracellular Biology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40292385/)

### Is it fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

It contains fragrance (parfum, linalool, citronellol, geraniol, and zingiber aromaticus extract) and drying alcohol (sd alcohol 40-b alcohol denat).

## Alternatives for skin with dark spots

- [Mizon Snail Repair Intensive Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/mizon/snail-repair-intensive-toner/for/dark-spots) — High fit — €19.69 at Amazon
- [Beauty of Joseon Ginseng Essence Water](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/beauty-of-joseon/ginseng-essence-water/for/dark-spots) — High fit — €14.39 at Amazon
- [SNP Prep Peptaronic Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/snp-prep/peptaronic-toner/for/dark-spots) — High fit — €21.00 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — €24.75 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

No store in Italy has a checked price for this product, so the page shows none.

## Ingredients

Water, Dipropylene Glycol, Sd Alcohol 40-B Alcohol Denat, Glycerin, Diglycerin, Peg Ppg-14 7 Dimethyl Ether, Peg-20, Phenoxyethanol, Methylparaben, Carbomer, Erythritol, Parfum, Disodium Edta, Potassium Hydroxide, Butylene Glycol, Linalool, Sapindus Mukorossi Peel Extract, Sodium Metabisulfite, Citronellol, Geraniol, Magnesium Chloride, Theanine, Calcium Chloride, Serine, Witch Hazel Leaf Extract, Zingiber Aromaticus Extract, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Tocopherol, Artemisia Princeps Leaf Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Kirishima Mineral Spring Water, Mukurossi Extract, Brightening Lempuyang Extract
## 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/treatment-softener/for/dark-spots
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/shiseido/treatment-softener/for/dark-spots
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/shiseido/treatment-softener/for/dark-spots
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/shiseido/treatment-softener/for/dark-spots
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/shiseido/treatment-softener/for/dark-spots
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/shiseido/treatment-softener/for/dark-spots (this page)
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/shiseido/treatment-softener/for/dark-spots
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/shiseido/treatment-softener/for/dark-spots
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/shiseido/treatment-softener/for/dark-spots
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/shiseido/treatment-softener/for/dark-spots
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/shiseido/treatment-softener/for/dark-spots
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/shiseido/treatment-softener/for/dark-spots
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/shiseido/treatment-softener/for/dark-spots