# Clarins Gentle Foaming Cleanser for skin with dark spots

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/clarins/gentle-foaming-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 the Netherlands.

Brand: [Clarins](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/brands/clarins)
Category: [Cleansers](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/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 suitability for normal skin as Glycerin and Squalane provide humectant and emollient actions, though the formulation's primary benefits of hydration and cleansing are largely irrelevant to your main goal of pigmentation.
- The cleansing agents, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate and Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, effectively remove impurities without posing a risk of irritation for your normal skin.
- The safety profile is excellent due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the inclusion of soothing components like Shea Butter.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Alpine Herbs, Shea Extracts Butter, Tamarindus Indica Pulp, Glycerin, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate

## 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/))
- A combination cream of stimu-tex AS and saccharide isomerate reduced erythema, increased skin capacitance, and reduced transepidermal water loss compared to placebo in 20 subjects after fractional CO2 laser procedure without causing serious adverse events. ([Lasers in Medical Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41134387/))
- A skin barrier restoring cream with shea butter, silkflo, and vitamin E increased type I procollagen synthesis, enhanced antioxidant enzyme activity, decreased reactive oxygen species generation, and promoted hyaluronic acid production in H2O2-stimulated human keratinocyte cells compared to untreated cells. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39528438/))
- Topical application of a water-in-oil cosmetic emulsion containing 4% Tamarindus indica seeds extract significantly improved skin elasticity, moisture content, and surface evaluation parameters in 11 healthy male volunteers compared to a control base over 12 weeks. ([Postepy Dermatologii I Alergologii, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28951709/))
- Tamarindus indica n-hexane extracts from various organs demonstrated anti-inflammatory and wound healing activities by inhibiting nitric oxide and promoting fibroblast migration in in-vitro assays compared to control cells. ([Plants, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36616217/))
- 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 a very large amount of data, the Gentle Foaming Cleanser line is highly regarded for its effective yet gentle cleansing, creating a rich lather that removes impurities without stripping the skin, leaving it feeling soft and hydrated. While many appreciate the pleasant scent and the product's longevity, a notable number of long-time users express disappointment with the reformulation from the original version, citing a strong fragrance and occasional skin irritation as drawbacks.

- Liked: Effective gentle cleansing (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Non-drying formula (often mentioned)
- Liked: Rich creamy lather (often mentioned)
- Liked: Long-lasting tube (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Pleasant spa scent (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Reformulation disappointment (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Strong fragrance (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Caused breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Drying for some (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Eye irritation (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 Clarins Gentle Foaming Cleanser work for skin with dark spots?

Clarins Gentle Foaming Cleanser is an average fit for skin with dark spots because its cleansing and hydration do not target pigmentation, though glycerin helps keep the skin soft and smooth. A cleanser for dark spots needs to be very safe and gentle while containing brightening ingredients like niacinamide and ceramides.
Sources: [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 skin with dark spots because it contains glycerin and squalane to keep skin soft and hydrated while cleansing. However, it lacks ingredients like niacinamide and ceramides that are needed to actively fade dark spots.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What do Alpine Herbs do for skin with dark spots?

Alpine Herbs help brighten dark spots and even out uneven skin tone. They work gently to calm the skin while fading discoloration over time.

### What does Shea Butter do for skin with dark spots?

Shea butter helps dark spots by providing polar constituents with antimelanogenic activities that may improve uneven skin tone. It also offers antioxidant benefits to support overall skin health.
Sources: [Phytochemistry, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25446237/)

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

This cleanser goes in your morning and evening routine as the first step to wash away impurities without irritation. Because this skin needs products that specifically target pigmentation, a cleanser of this type needs added brightening ingredients.

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

You can use this cleanser alongside retinol as part of your morning and evening routine by washing your face before applying your retinol treatment. This cleanser is unlikely to irritate your skin because it lacks harsh ingredients and includes soothing components like shea butter. For skin with dark spots, a cleanser of this type needs added brightening ingredients that help fade discoloration.

### How often should I use this cleanser?

You can use this cleanser twice a day as part of your morning and evening routine. It gently washes away impurities without irritating your skin, though dealing with dark spots requires targeted treatments like brightening serums rather than just a cleanser.

### 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 your skin with dark spots, as it washes away impurities safely without harsh ingredients. Reviewers rarely report breakouts from this formula.

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

You can use this cleanser on your body, but you should take care around the thin skin of the eyes since cleansers can sometimes be drying. This product cleanses well without causing irritation, though a product for dark spots needs targeted brightening ingredients and antioxidants.
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).

## Alternatives for skin with dark spots

- [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — €21.00 at Amazon
- [La Roche-Posay Hydrating Gentle Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/la-roche-posay/toleriane-hydrating-gentle-cleanser/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — €21.95 at Amazon
- [Cetaphil Gentle Foaming Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/cetaphil/gentle-foaming-cleanser/for/dark-spots) — High fit — €14.51 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Hydrating Toner: [Pyunkang Yul Calming Deep Moisture Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/pyunkang-yul/calming-deep-moisture-toner/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — €14.31 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [SKIN1004 Centella Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/skin1004/centella-cream/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — €19.20 at Amazon
- SPF: [d'Alba UVessence Mild Waterfull Sun Cream SPF 50](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/d-alba/uvessence-mild-waterfull-sun-cream-spf-50/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — €16.75 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Notino: €20.50 (https://www.notino.nl/clarins/cleansing-hydrating-gentle-foaming-cleanser-reinigingsschuim-met-hydraterende-werking/p-16261788/)
Prices checked 14 Oct 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Squalane, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Propanediol, Glycol Distearate, Coconut Acid, Glyceryl Behenate, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter Shea Butter, C14-22 Alcohols, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Sodium Isethionate, Parfum, Sodium Citrate, Chlorphenesin, Citric Acid, C12-20 Alkyl Glucoside, Disodium Edta, Maltodextrin, Moringa Oleifera Seed Extract, Melissa Officinalis Leaf Extract, T-Butyl Alcohol, Saponaria Officinalis Leaf Extract, Gentiana Lutea Extract, Chamomilla Recutita Flower Extract Matricaria Flower Extract, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate
## 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/clarins/gentle-foaming-cleanser/for/dark-spots
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/clarins/gentle-foaming-cleanser/for/dark-spots
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/clarins/gentle-foaming-cleanser/for/dark-spots
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/clarins/gentle-foaming-cleanser/for/dark-spots
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/clarins/gentle-foaming-cleanser/for/dark-spots
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/clarins/gentle-foaming-cleanser/for/dark-spots
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/clarins/gentle-foaming-cleanser/for/dark-spots (this page)
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/clarins/gentle-foaming-cleanser/for/dark-spots
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/clarins/gentle-foaming-cleanser/for/dark-spots
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/clarins/gentle-foaming-cleanser/for/dark-spots
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/clarins/gentle-foaming-cleanser/for/dark-spots
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/clarins/gentle-foaming-cleanser/for/dark-spots
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/clarins/gentle-foaming-cleanser/for/dark-spots