# ZO Skin Health Complexion Renewal Pads for skin with dark spots

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-renewal-pads/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: [ZO Skin Health](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/brands/zo-skin-health)
Category: [Exfoliants](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/best/exfoliators)

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.

One of the best products for skin with dark spots.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate exfoliation for pigmentation and pores due to salicylic acid and glycolic acid, which promote skin renewal, and urea, which provides humectant action suitable for your normal skin.
- The inclusion of various botanical extracts like Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract offers antioxidant benefits, further supporting skin health.
- The formula is safe for your normal skin, as it lacks harsh ingredients and has a low risk of irritation.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-renewal-pads/for/oily-skin): Superior
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-renewal-pads/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-renewal-pads/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-renewal-pads/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-renewal-pads/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-renewal-pads/for/dark-spots): High (this page)
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-renewal-pads/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-renewal-pads/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-renewal-pads/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Superior

## Key ingredients

Glycolic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Plantago Major Leaf Extract, Hordeum Distichon Extract Hordeum Vulgare Extract, Phellodendron Amurense Bark Extract

## What the research says

- Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose hydrogel formulations of berberine chloride-loaded escinosomes increased skin residence time and transdermal permeability while maintaining high safety and biocompatibility without skin irritation. ([International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32682035/))
- Urea is a safe and effective dermatologic therapy with wide-ranging clinical utility for various skin conditions and minimal, non-systemic side effects based on a review of the clinical literature. ([Dermatology Online Journal, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24314769/))
- Repeated short-contact 70% glycolic acid peels provided superior results in atrophic acne scars compared to daily low-strength glycolic acid cream or placebo in 58 women over 24 weeks. ([International Journal of Dermatology, 2000](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11095203/))
- Serial glycolic acid peels combined with a modified Kligman formula significantly reduced facial PIH severity in Indian patients compared to the modified Kligman formula alone. ([Dermatologic Surgery, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28114204/))
- Cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen achieved a higher cure rate (39%) than salicylic acid (24%) and a wait-and-see approach (16%) for cutaneous warts at 13 weeks in primary care patients. ([CMAJ, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20837684/))
- A moisturizer containing licochalcone A, 1,2-decanediol, L-carnitine, and salicylic acid significantly reduced noninflammatory, inflammatory, and total acne lesion counts compared to a vehicle control in Thai patients during a 12-week maintenance phase. ([BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/))
- Treatment with 2% supramolecular salicylic acid hydrogel resulted in a regression and markedly improvement rate of 51.01% compared to 43.10% for Adapaline gel in patients with mild to moderate facial acne vulgaris, showing no significant difference in efficacy. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38590107/))
- Plantain leaf proteins exhibit a wound-healing effect on vertebrate skin both in vitro and in vivo. ([Prikladnaia Biokhimiia I Mikrobiologiia, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22808737/))
- Plantago lanceolata water extract improves skin wound healing in rats by inducing the transition of fibroblasts into myofibroblasts, increasing wound contraction rates, and enhancing tensile strength through greater extracellular matrix protein organization compared to untreated wounds. ([The Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25244603/))
- Plantago major and Plantago lanceolata extracts incorporated into 3D-printed polysaccharide dressings enhanced fibroblast wound closure to 64% and 52%, respectively, compared to 29% for the control. ([International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41592645/))
- Topical steroid withdrawal is driven by excess mitochondrial NAD+ metabolism that can be successfully targeted using complex I-inhibiting interventions such as metformin and berberine. ([The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40088241/))
- Topical steroid withdrawal presents as a distinct dermatopathology characterized by burning, flushing, thermodysregulation, and elevated mitochondrial NAD+ oxidation, which can be improved by targeting complex I with metformin or berberine. ([MedRxiv, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38712043/))
- Gelatin/chitosan bilayer patches loaded with Cortex Phellodendri amurensis and Centella asiatica extracts inhibited the growth of Propionibacterium acnes and accelerated skin fibroblast cell viability. ([Polymers, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33671908/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, these pads are widely praised for effectively managing oily, acne-prone, and congested skin by combining salicylic and glycolic acids to exfoliate and clear pores. While many users achieve a brighter, smoother, and more balanced complexion, those with highly sensitive or dry skin should introduce them gradually due to the inclusion of denatured alcohol and fragrance.

- Liked: Convenient to use (often mentioned)
- Liked: Effective exfoliation (often mentioned)
- Liked: Reduces oil (often mentioned)
- Liked: Brightens skin (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Contains alcohol (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: High price (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Causes irritation (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your exfoliant PM once a week to start, moving up to twice a week if your skin likes it. Always apply SPF during the day while using this product.
- Apply this exfoliant step right after your cleanser and toner, and before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the exfoliant into your skin and let it dry. Avoid rubbing your face hard.
- Apply the product on clean, completely dry skin to make sure it works best for your pigmentation goals.
- Remember to avoid the delicate eye area and do a quick patch test before using it for the first time.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/028e5e793422a3b665c02ff502cf5a68.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes ZO Skin Health Complexion Renewal Pads a great fit for skin with dark spots?

ZO Skin Health Complexion Renewal Pads are a great fit because they offer moderate exfoliation that helps fade dark spots and clear pores using glycolic acid and salicylic acid. The formula also features urea to keep normal skin soft, along with plant extracts that provide antioxidants for overall skin health.

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

Glycolic acid and salicylic acid make this exfoliant a great fit for skin with dark spots by promoting skin renewal to help fade discoloration. Urea further supports your skin by providing moisture, while plantago major leaf extract and other botanical extracts offer antioxidant benefits.

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

Glycolic acid helps fade dark spots and improves uneven skin tone by encouraging the shedding of pigmented surface cells. When used in treatments or peels alongside other brightening ingredients, it may further reduce the severity of stubborn discoloration.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17204097/)

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

Salicylic acid helps fade dark spots and uneven skin tone left behind after breakouts. It gently clears away surface buildup, which may improve the look of dark marks and support a smoother, more even complexion over time.
Sources: [Dermatologic Surgery, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19400885/), [Dermatologic Surgery, 1999](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9935087/)

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

This exfoliant treatment goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before your moisturizer. Start using it just once a week, and if your skin tolerates it well and you see good results, you can carefully use it more often.

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

You can use this exfoliant with retinol by applying the exfoliant first and waiting for it to dry before putting on your retinol, or by using them on different nights to help avoid irritation. Combining these active ingredients promotes skin renewal and helps fade dark spots, but using them too frequently may make your skin dry or sensitive.

### How often should I use this exfoliant?

Start by using this exfoliant once a week, and if your skin tolerates it well and you see good results, you may carefully use it more often. The glycolic and salicylic acids help renew the skin and fade dark spots over time.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32356917/), [Dermatologic Surgery, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16640681/)

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

This exfoliant is a great fit for skin with dark spots because glycolic and salicylic acids promote skin renewal to help fade spots and clear pores. It has a low risk of irritation and is unlikely to clog pores.

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

It contains fragrance (parfum, limonene, linalool, and hexyl cinnamal) and drying alcohol (sd alcohol 40-b).

## Alternatives for skin with dark spots

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/dark-spots) — High fit — €10.20 at Amazon
- [Clinique Fresh Pressed Daily Booster with Pure Vitamin C 10%](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/clinique/fresh-pressed-daily-booster-with-pure-vitamin-c-10/for/dark-spots) — High fit — €99.41 at Amazon
- [Guerlain Abeille Royale Double R Renew & Repair Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/guerlain/abeille-royale-double-r-renew-and-repair-advanced-serum/for/dark-spots) — High fit — €203.88 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — €21.00 at Amazon
- 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

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Water, Sd Alcohol 40-B, Propylene Glycol, Salicylic Acid, Urea, Glycolic Acid, Pterocarpus Soyauxii Extract Wood, Phellodendron Amurense Bark Extract, Hordeum Distichon Extract Hordeum Vulgare Extract, Spiraea Ulmaria Leaf Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Artemisia Vulgaris Extract, Plantago Lanceolata Leaf Extract, Crithmum Maritimum Extract, Butylene Glycol, Parfum, Limonene, Linalool, Hexyl Cinnamal, Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone, Sodium Hydroxide
## 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/zo-skin-health/complexion-renewal-pads/for/dark-spots
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-renewal-pads/for/dark-spots
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-renewal-pads/for/dark-spots
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-renewal-pads/for/dark-spots
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-renewal-pads/for/dark-spots
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-renewal-pads/for/dark-spots
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-renewal-pads/for/dark-spots (this page)
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-renewal-pads/for/dark-spots
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-renewal-pads/for/dark-spots
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-renewal-pads/for/dark-spots
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-renewal-pads/for/dark-spots
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-renewal-pads/for/dark-spots
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-renewal-pads/for/dark-spots