Clinique Clarifying Lotion 3 gentle exfoliating toner for combination-to-oily skin, 13.5 oz with salicylic acid

Clinique Clarifying Lotion 3 is a gentle, twice-daily exfoliating liquid formulated to remove surface buildup and excess oil for combination-to-oily skin.

Designed as Step 2 in Clinique’s classic 3-Step Routine, this clarifying lotion refines skin texture and helps clear away dead cells, pollution particles, and residual impurities that cleansing can miss. Formulated for combination-oily complexions, it uses gentle actives—like salicylic acid and skin-conditioning botanicals—to refresh skin and prepare it to absorb moisturizer and treatments more effectively.

How does Clarifying Lotion 3 fit into a simple skincare routine?

Use after cleansing and before moisturizing. It’s a light, liquid exfoliant applied with a cotton pad to sweep away lingering debris and excess oil without heavy scrubbing. This makes serums and moisturizers work better by clearing the surface layer of dead cells.

• Step 1: Cleanse to remove surface dirt and makeup.
• Step 2: Apply Clarifying Lotion 3 with a cotton pad across face, neck, and T-zone.
• Step 3: Follow immediately with your daytime or nighttime moisturizer.
• Use twice daily for consistent surface renewal.

What active ingredients are in this formula and what do they do?

Clarifying Lotion 3 combines gentle exfoliating actives and skin-conditioning ingredients chosen for combination-oily skin. Salicylic acid helps clear oil and impurities from pores while witch hazel aids in removing surface residue; other buffering agents help maintain comfort on regular use.

• Salicylic acid (BHA) for oil-targeted exfoliation.
• Witch hazel to assist with removing surface impurities.
• Skin-buffering ingredients to reduce irritation risk from daily exfoliation.
• Alcohol content varies by formula; this one balances efficacy and comfort for combination-oily types.

Will it make my skin dry or cause irritation?

The Clarifying Lotion series includes five skin-typed formulas so you can choose the version matched to your needs; the 3 formula is tailored for combination-to-oily skin. When used as directed—twice daily after cleansing and before moisturizer—it removes debris without over-stripping, and following with a proper moisturizer helps preserve hydration.

• Select the correct Clarifying Lotion number for your skin type to minimize dryness.
• Apply with a cotton pad and avoid excessive rubbing.
• Use your regular moisturizer right after to restore balance.
• If irritation occurs, reduce frequency and consult product guidance.

How quickly will I notice results and what should I expect?

Many users see smoother-looking, more radiant skin soon after regular use because surface flakes and dulling debris are removed. Over weeks, consistent exfoliation can help pores appear clearer and allow other skincare products to absorb more effectively, though individual results vary.

• Immediate: fresher, cleaner surface appearance after a few applications.
• Short term: improved texture and smoother skin within days to weeks.
• Long term: better product absorption and more reliable pore clarity with ongoing use.

Who is this for: Clinique Clarifying Lotion 3 is aimed at people with combination-to-oily skin who want a straightforward, dermatologist-developed exfoliating step in their daily routine. It’s ideal for anyone seeking to reduce surface oil and dullness, make moisturizers and treatments more effective, and follow the iconic 3-step approach that’s quick and easy to include in morning and evening care.

Ingredients

Water\Aqua\Eau, Alcohol Denat., Salicylic Acid, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel), Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Trehalose, Sodium Hyaluronate, Citric Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Disodium Edta, Bht, Phenoxyethanol, Benzophenone-4, Ext. Violet 2 (Ci 60730), Red 6 (Ci 15850), Orange 4 (Ci 15510) 37038 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.