Clinique Clarifying Lotion 4 — Gentle Exfoliator for Oily Skin, 13.5 fl oz with Salicylic Acid

Clinique Clarifying Lotion 4 is a gentle, dermatologist-developed liquid exfoliant formulated to remove excess oil, surface dead cells, and lingering impurities for clearer, fresher-looking skin.

Designed as Step 2 in Clinique’s three-step routine, Clarifying Lotion 4 targets oily skin by combining mild exfoliants and skin-conditioning ingredients to refine texture and help keep pores clearer. Use it after cleansing and before moisturizing to improve product absorption, reduce dullness, and create a smoother skin surface without stripping or over-drying when used as directed.

How does Clarifying Lotion 4 help oily skin without causing irritation?

Clarifying Lotion 4 uses a calibrated blend of actives to lift away excess oil and dead skin cells while supporting the skin’s comfort. It’s formulated to balance effective exfoliation with gentle buffering agents so skin doesn’t feel tight or compromised after use.

• Contains BHA (salicylic acid) to help clear pore debris and reduce surface oil.
• Includes skin-buffering components that help maintain comfort during daily use.
• Alcohol-free options exist within the Clarifying Lotion range for sensitive formulations; Lotion 4 focuses on oily/combination oily skin.
• Developed and tested by dermatologists and allergy-tested for tolerance.

When and how should I include it in my skincare routine?

Use Clarifying Lotion 4 twice daily after cleansing and before applying serums or moisturizers. Apply with a cotton pad and sweep evenly across forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin; avoid direct eye contact and any open wounds.

• Step 1: Cleanse to remove surface dirt and makeup.
• Step 2: Saturate a cotton ball with Clarifying Lotion 4 and sweep across the face and neck.
• Step 3: Follow with your chosen Clinique moisturizer or treatment product.
• Frequency: Typically twice daily, morning and night, unless irritation occurs.

What visible benefits can I expect and how soon?

Regular use helps reduce dullness and refines skin texture for a visibly smoother, fresher complexion. Many people notice improved radiance and better product absorption within days, while clearer pores and fewer breakouts may appear with continued use.

• Instant: Removal of surface flakes and a more even skin feel after first use.
• Short term (days–weeks): Enhanced glow and smoother skin texture.
• Longer term: Help with minimizing excess oil and keeping pores clearer when used consistently.
• Works best when paired with a full skincare routine—cleanse, exfoliate, moisturize.

How does Clarifying Lotion 4 differ from a typical facial toner?

Unlike toners that primarily rebalance skin’s pH or hydrate, Clarifying Lotion 4 is formulated specifically to exfoliate. Its active ingredients focus on lifting away dead cells and loosened debris so follow-on treatments penetrate more effectively.

• Toners: often rebalancing or hydrating in intent.
• Clarifying Lotion 4: designed to remove residual oil, impurities, and surface build-up.
• Using Clarifying Lotion before moisturizer improves absorption and efficacy of treatments.
• Available in five skin-typed formulas to match individual needs across the Clinique range.

Who is this for: Clinique Clarifying Lotion 4 is intended for people with oily or combination-oily skin who want a reliable daily exfoliant that reduces surface oil and refines texture without heavy irritation. It’s suitable for those following the Clinique 3-Step system or anyone seeking a straightforward liquid exfoliant to prep skin for serums and moisturizers. If you have very sensitive or very dry skin, consider one of the other Clarifying Lotion formulas tailored to those needs.

Ingredients

Water\Aqua\Eau, Alcohol Denat., Salicylic Acid, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel), Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Trehalose, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Hydroxide, Disodium Edta-Copper, Bht, Phenoxyethanol, Benzophenone-4, Green 5 (Ci 61570) 37005 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.