# SK-II Facial Treatment Cleansing Oil 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/p/sk-ii/facial-treatment-cleansing-oil/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 United States.

Brand: [SK-II](https://lovi.care/skincare/brands/sk-ii)
Category: [Makeup removers](https://lovi.care/skincare/best/makeup-removers)

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 pre-cleansers fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate suitability for your normal skin, as Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate and Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate provide effective cleansing and pore purification, while Rosa Canina Oil Fruit offers some emollient benefits.
- While it addresses general cleansing and hydration, it lacks sufficient concentrations of key ingredients like Ascorbyl Palmitate or Salix Alba Bark Extract to effectively target your primary concern of pigmentation.
- The product is safe for your normal skin, with no identified risks of irritation due to the absence of harsh or prohibited ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/sk-ii/facial-treatment-cleansing-oil/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/sk-ii/facial-treatment-cleansing-oil/for/dry-skin): High
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/sk-ii/facial-treatment-cleansing-oil/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/sk-ii/facial-treatment-cleansing-oil/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/sk-ii/facial-treatment-cleansing-oil/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/sk-ii/facial-treatment-cleansing-oil/for/dark-spots): Average (this page)
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/sk-ii/facial-treatment-cleansing-oil/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/sk-ii/facial-treatment-cleansing-oil/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/sk-ii/facial-treatment-cleansing-oil/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate Pitera Ferment Filtrate, Rosa Canina Oil Fruit, Mineral Oil, Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate, Butylene Glycol

## What the research says

- Application of Galactomyces ferment filtrate skin care formula significantly reduced the net values and daily fluctuation of facial pore area, roughness, and redness in young Japanese women. ([Journal of Clinical Medicine, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34198790/))
- A combination serum containing galactomyces ferment filtrate, dexpanthenol, and Centella asiatica effectively treated post-acne hyperpigmentation in subjects with colored skin by significantly increasing lightness scores in Fitzpatrick skin type V and reducing the melanin index in Fitzpatrick skin type IV compared to placebo. ([Skinmed, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33938432/))
- Galactomyces ferment filtrate promotes epidermal interconnectivity, barrier development, cell adhesion, keratinocyte differentiation and proliferation, and protects cellular bioenergetics against stress in keratinocytes and ex vivo skin explants compared to untreated controls. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38924095/))
- Galactomyces ferment filtrate activates AHR and NRF2, upregulates filaggrin and terminal differentiation markers, exhibits antioxidative activity, promotes antiinflammatory IL-37, and downregulates CDKN2A, IL-33, CXCL14, and IL6R in epidermal keratinocytes. ([Journal of Clinical Medicine, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36362566/))
- Topical treatments containing rosehip extract may reduce the size and erythema of postsurgical scars through macrophage polarization and inflammatory cytokine inhibition, though current clinical evidence remains insufficient to recommend its routine use. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37605366/))
- Sunflower and rosehip oil nanoemulsions prepared with a mix of phospholipids and synthetic emulsifiers permeated intact skin to the dermis and showed a more prominent healing effect in a human organotypic skin explant culture wound model compared to nanoemulsions prepared only with phospholipids. ([Pharmaceutics, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36986857/))
- A nanoemulsion containing 1 mg/mL kojic dipalmitate and 5% rosehip oil demonstrated high incorporation efficiency, suitable physicochemical stability, antioxidant and depigmenting efficacy close to 1 mM ascorbic acid, and no cytotoxicity at concentrations from 0.06% to 1% in vitro. ([Pharmaceutics, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36839792/))
- Repeated application of concentrated water-in-oil emulsions over four weeks caused no skin irritation, positively affected skin properties, and delivered almost 50% of the applied fluorescein sodium, with isopropyl myristate showing superior penetration performance compared to liquid paraffin in healthy volunteers. ([International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31525444/))

## Why other pre-cleansers fit skin with dark spots better

- A topical antioxidant serum significantly reduced air pollution-induced skin pigmentation and proinflammatory gene expression ex vivo, and improved skin aging signs in 40 healthy adult females after 90 days of daily use. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35150043/))

## What reviewers say

Users find this cleansing oil to be a luxurious, lightweight product that effectively removes makeup, including waterproof types, without drying the skin. It is frequently praised for leaving skin feeling soft and hydrated. Some users with sensitive or acne-prone skin reported breakouts, and a significant number found the product to be expensive for its performance.

- Disliked: High price (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Effective makeup removal (often mentioned)
- Liked: Hydrating and non-stripping (often mentioned)
- Liked: Clean rinsing (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Luxurious texture (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Pleasant scent (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Lack of wow (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Scent dislike (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Skin reactions (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this makeup remover as part of your PM routine every evening to melt away makeup and impurities.
- Apply this makeup remover as the first step of your evening routine before using your regular cleanser.
- Gently massage the makeup remover onto your face using circular motions, then rinse thoroughly with water.
- For the best results , apply the makeup remover directly to dry skin to help break down makeup effortlessly.
- Avoid the immediate eye area and do a patch test before your first use to ensure your skin feels comfortable.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c35a78bc839b6c00f5359ad6ae653522.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does SK-II Facial Treatment Cleansing Oil work for skin with dark spots?

This cleansing oil works moderately well for skin with dark spots because it provides effective cleansing and pore purification, but it lacks sufficient amounts of targeted brightening ingredients. To better address dark spots, a makeup remover needs higher levels of active brighteners and soothing extracts that safely fade pigmentation.
Sources: [Journal of Clinical Medicine, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34198790/)

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

Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate and Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate make this cleanser a good fit because they provide effective cleansing and pore purification. To work well on dark spots, this type of product needs extra brightening ingredients like Ascorbyl Palmitate or Salix Alba Bark Extract.
Sources: [Journal of Clinical Medicine, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34198790/)

### What does Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate do for skin with dark spots?

Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate helps fade dark spots and uneven pigmentation when applied daily. Long-term use significantly improves skin brightness, smooths out rough texture, and helps reduce dark spots while boosting overall hydration.
Sources: [Journal of Clinical Medicine, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36769815/)

### What does Rosehip Oil do for skin with dark spots?

Rosehip oil helps fade dark spots and uneven skin tone by providing antioxidant benefits that support clearer skin. Formulations with rosehip oil are also promising for managing various skin concerns while keeping your skin calm and healthy.
Sources: [Frontiers in Pharmacology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38666029/), [Pharmaceutics, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36839792/)

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

This makeup remover goes in the evening routine before your cleanser, as a first step to take off makeup. Skin with dark spots needs a makeup remover that also includes brightening ingredients like vitamin C or willow bark extract to actively target pigmentation.

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

You can use this cleanser in your routine before applying a retinol treatment, but this type of skin needs a product with higher levels of vitamin C or willow bark extract to truly help fade dark spots.
Sources: [Journal of Clinical Medicine, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34198790/)

### How often should I use this cleanser?

You can use this makeup remover in your evening routine for skin with dark spots. It is safe for your skin with no identified risks of irritation, but it lacks enough brightening ingredients like Ascorbyl Palmitate to effectively target dark spots.

### 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 has a very safe profile and contains gentle ingredients like Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate and Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate. To better target dark spots, this skin type needs a product with higher amounts of brightening ingredients like Ascorbyl Palmitate.
Sources: [Journal of Clinical Medicine, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34198790/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for skin with dark spots

- [Pyunkang Yul Deep Clear Cleansing Balm](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/pyunkang-yul/deep-clear-cleansing-balm/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — $15.99 at Amazon
- [Dermalogica PreCleanse](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/dermalogica/precleanse/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — $49.00 at Amazon
- [Shu Uemura Ultime8 Sublime Beauty Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/shu-uemura/ultime8-sublime-beauty-cleansing-oil/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — $50.00 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — $15.97 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Pyunkang Yul Calming Deep Moisture Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/pyunkang-yul/calming-deep-moisture-toner/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — $16.99 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Isntree Green Tea Fresh Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/isntree/green-tea-fresh-serum/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — $17.90 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.com: $75.00 (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B084M1R6RH?tag=lovi-care-web-product-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 5 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate, Propylene Glycol, Peg-150 Stearate, Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate Pitera Ferment Filtrate, Sodium Pca, Glycol Stearate, Butylene Glycol, Cocamide Mea, Rosa Canina Oil Fruit, Stearamide Amp, Pentylene Glycol, Salix Alba Salix Alba Bark Extract Willow Bark Extract, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Hydroxyphenyl Propamidobenzoic Acid, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Bht, Phenethyl Alcohol, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Mineral Oil, Isopropyl Palmitate, Peg-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate, Sorbeth-30 Tetraoleate, Phenoxyethanol, Moringa Oleifera Seed Extract, Pyrus Malus Seed Extract, Glycerin, Peg-8 Diisostearate, Sodium Benzoate, Ethylparaben, Butylparaben, Disodium Phosphate, Citric Acid, Hexyldecanol, Isobutylparaben
## 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/sk-ii/facial-treatment-cleansing-oil/for/dark-spots (this page)
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/sk-ii/facial-treatment-cleansing-oil/for/dark-spots
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/sk-ii/facial-treatment-cleansing-oil/for/dark-spots
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/sk-ii/facial-treatment-cleansing-oil/for/dark-spots
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/sk-ii/facial-treatment-cleansing-oil/for/dark-spots
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/sk-ii/facial-treatment-cleansing-oil/for/dark-spots
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/sk-ii/facial-treatment-cleansing-oil/for/dark-spots
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/sk-ii/facial-treatment-cleansing-oil/for/dark-spots
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/sk-ii/facial-treatment-cleansing-oil/for/dark-spots
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/sk-ii/facial-treatment-cleansing-oil/for/dark-spots
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/sk-ii/facial-treatment-cleansing-oil/for/dark-spots
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/sk-ii/facial-treatment-cleansing-oil/for/dark-spots
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/sk-ii/facial-treatment-cleansing-oil/for/dark-spots