Clinique Clarifying Lotion 4 — Liquid Exfoliant Toner for Oily Skin, 6.7 fl oz (Salicylic Acid, Witch Hazel)

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

Designed as Step 2 in Clinique’s three-step skincare system, this clarifying lotion pairs with cleansing and moisturizing to refine skin texture and improve product absorption. The formula combines targeted actives—such as salicylic acid (BHA) and skin-conditioning botanicals—to gently lift away pollution, dirt and oil that cleansing alone can miss. Use it twice daily on a cotton pad after cleansing and before your moisturizer or treatment products.

How does Clarifying Lotion 4 help oily skin without over-drying?

Clarifying Lotion 4 balances oil control with skin comfort. It removes excess sebum and surface debris to reduce shine and keep pores clearer, while ingredients are chosen to limit irritation so the skin doesn’t feel stripped.

• Contains BHA (salicylic acid) to help unclog pores and reduce buildup
• Formulated for oily skin to target oiliness without harsh over-exfoliation
• Alcohol content calibrated to lift impurities but maintain skin buffering
• Clinically allergy-tested and fragrance-free to lower sensitization risk

When and how should I use this lotion in my routine?

Use Clarifying Lotion 4 twice a day after your cleanser and before moisturizer. Apply a small amount to a cotton pad and sweep over the face and neck—avoiding the eye area—to remove remaining impurities and prepare skin for the next step.

• Morning and evening, after cleansing
• Sweep across forehead, nose, chin and cheeks with a cotton pad
• Follow immediately with serums or a lightweight moisturizer
• Do not rinse off; allow active ingredients to work on the skin

Is this the same as a toner—what makes it different?

While toners primarily rebalance and hydrate, Clarifying Lotion 4 is formulated specifically as a liquid exfoliant. It targets dead skin cell removal and pore clearance so subsequent skincare steps can penetrate more effectively.

• Exfoliating actives remove dulling surface flakes
• Toners mainly restore pH and soothe—this product exfoliates
• Improves absorption of moisturizers and treatments that follow
• Available in multiple skin-typed formulas, so you can match needs

Can I use this with acne treatments or sensitive skin products?

Clarifying Lotion 4 can be combined with many topical treatments, but monitor how your skin responds. Because it contains salicylic acid and other actives, if you use strong prescription topicals or retinoids, space out applications to prevent irritation.

• Works well with oil-control and pore-refining actives
• If using retinoids or prescription treatments, introduce gradually
• Discontinue if excessive redness or irritation occurs
• Choose gentler Clinique Clarifying Lotion formulas for sensitive skin

Who is this for: Clinique Clarifying Lotion 4 is aimed at people with oily or very oily complexions who want a reliable, twice-daily exfoliating step to reduce surface oil, minimize clogged pores and improve skin texture. It’s part of Clinique’s 3-Step system—cleanse, exfoliate, moisturize—so it’s especially useful for anyone seeking a simple, science-backed routine that helps other skincare products perform better.

Features summary:

• Gentle daily exfoliation to lift pollution, dirt and excess oil
• Refines skin surface for increased radiance and smoother texture
• Dermatologist-developed in five skin-typed formulations
• Allergy-tested, fragrance-free, formulated to pair with moisturizers and treatments

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.