Clinique Clarifying Lotion exfoliating toner — 6.7 fl oz with salicylic acid for oil control and pore‑refining

Clinique Acne Solutions Clarifying Lotion is a lightweight, salicylic-acid–powered exfoliating lotion that removes dead skin and excess oil to help keep pores clear.

This liquid exfoliant is the second step in Clinique’s iconic 3-Step routine, formulated to refine skin texture and improve product absorption. Designed in five different skin-typed formulas, the Clarifying Lotion uses actives like BHA (salicylic acid), witch hazel, and other skin-buffering ingredients to gently lift away surface flakes, pollution, and residual oils that cleansing can miss.

How does this lotion fit into a daily skincare routine?

Use after cleansing and before moisturizing, twice daily. A single sweep with a cotton pad helps clear away debris so serums and moisturizers penetrate more effectively, supporting smoother-looking skin over time.

• Step 2 of Clinique’s 3-Step system: cleanse, exfoliate, moisturize.
• Apply with a cotton ball to face and neck, avoiding the eye area.
• Follow with your Clinique moisturizer or treatment product.

What active ingredients are responsible for exfoliation?

Formulas include salicylic acid (a BHA) to help reduce excess oil and clear pores, along with soothing and balancing components to keep skin comfortable. Ingredients vary by the skin-typed version you choose to match sensitivity and oil level.

• Salicylic acid for gentle BHA exfoliation and pore-clearing.
• Witch hazel and other astringent-balancing agents in select formulas.
• Skin-buffering components to reduce irritation and preserve comfort.

Which Clarifying Lotion formula should I pick for my skin?

Clinique offers five formulations numbered for specific skin needs, from extra-gentle to oil-control. Match the number to your dryness or oiliness to get exfoliation without overstripping.

• 1.0 — Sensitive skin: alcohol-free and extra-gentle.
• 1 — Very dry skin: mild exfoliation to remove flakes.
• 2 — Dry combination skin: balanced daily exfoliation.
• 3 — Combination/oily skin: stronger oil control and renewal.
• 4 — Oily skin: formulated for oilier complexions and clogged pores.

Will using Clarifying Lotion cause dryness or irritation?

The lotion is formulated to provide “just-right” exfoliation when used as directed, but choosing the correct skin-typed formula minimizes unwanted dryness. If you have very reactive skin, start with the extra-gentle 1.0 and introduce twice-daily use gradually.

• Follow with a suitable moisturizer to restore hydration after exfoliation.
• Use the gentlest formula available for sensitive or very dry skin.
• Discontinue if persistent irritation occurs and consult a dermatologist.

Who is this for: Clinique Acne Solutions Clarifying Lotion is aimed at anyone seeking a dermatologist-developed, daily exfoliating step to help manage oil, clear pores, and improve skin texture. With five tailored formulas, it suits people with sensitive, dry, combination, or oily skin who want an approachable, clinically minded exfoliant to fit into a simple twice-daily regimen.

Ingredients

Water\Aqua\Eau, Alcohol Denat., Nylon-12, Butylene Glycol, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel), Laminaria Saccharina Extract, Caffeine, Sucrose, Glycerin, Acetyl Glucosamine, Sorbitol, Sea Whip Extract, Barium Sulfate, 10-Hydroxydecanoic Acid, Silica, Disodium Edta, Benzalkonium Chloride 32340 Please be aware that ingredient lists may change or vary from time to time. Please refer to the ingredient list on the product package you receive for the most up to date list of ingredients.