Clinique Clarifying Lotion 2 | Gentle Exfoliator For Dry Combination Skin Types | Face Toner With Witch Hazel | Step 2 in 3-Step Skin Care Routine Review
Our verdict
Clinique's Clarifying Lotion 2 is the brand's classic witch hazel toner for dry combination to oily skin, and it holds a 4.8 star average across more than 5,400 ratings. As Step 2 in Clinique's long running 3-Step routine, it's built to sweep away flakes and residue after cleansing.
Check price on AmazonBest for
Combination and oily skin types who want a dermatologist developed exfoliating toner to use as part of a consistent daily routine.
Skip if
You have very dry or reactive skin, since this formula is positioned for dry combination to oily skin rather than sensitive skin.
- Priced 10% below the category median ($19.20 across 452 tracked models)
Our scorecard
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Owner rating4.8/5
4.8 average across 5,400 owner ratings
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Popularity4.7/5
5,400 owner reviews, more than most models here
The overall score is owner satisfaction weighted by how many reviews back it, so a high rating from few reviews counts for less. The bars below show where this model stands against the other women's everyday face care: moisturizers, face mists, facial kits, rollers, cleansing brushes and steamers we track in this category on price, popularity and size. Context, not marks against it, and our read of the data, not a lab test.
Overview
This toner is built around witch hazel and is marketed as a dermatologist developed, exfoliating lotion for dry combination to oily skin, meant to sweep away dulling flakes after cleansing. It's fragrance free and unscented, and also skips parabens and phthalates, which keeps it simple for daily use.
It comes in a 200ml, or 6.7 fluid ounce, bottle and fits neatly into Clinique's well known 3-Step routine as Step 2, following a cleanser and preceding a moisturizer.
With more than 5,400 ratings averaging 4.8 stars, this is one of the most consistently well reviewed toners we cover. Recent monthly purchase counts are comparatively modest, which fits a long running classic that has built its review base over years rather than a newly trending release.
Pros
- Witch hazel formula helps sweep away flakes and residue after cleansing
- Fragrance free and unscented, gentle enough for daily use
- 4.8 star average across more than 5,400 ratings
- Fits neatly into Clinique's well known 3-Step routine
- Generous 6.7 fluid ounce bottle
Cons
- Formulated for dry combination to oily skin, so very dry or sensitive skin types may find it less suitable
- Best used alongside the rest of the 3-Step system for full effect
- Low current monthly purchase count relative to its review volume
Performance notes
Witch hazel is the key active here, working as a gentle astringent that helps sweep away leftover residue and support a clearer feeling complexion after cleansing. Because the formula is fragrance free, paraben free, and phthalate free, it's built to exfoliate without adding extra potential irritants on top of the witch hazel itself.
What buyers say
A 4.8 star average across more than 5,400 ratings reflects a long track record of trust in Clinique's Clarifying Lotion line. The comparatively low recent monthly purchase count suggests most of that volume has built up over time rather than from a sudden new wave of buyers.
More from Brand
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Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between this and Clinique's other Clarifying Lotions?
Clinique's Clarifying Lotion line comes in different numbered strengths for different skin types, and this version, Lotion 2, is positioned for dry combination to oily skin. If your skin is drier or more sensitive, a gentler number in the line may suit you better.
Do I need the rest of the 3-Step system to use this toner?
No, you can use this toner on its own after cleansing, but it's designed as Step 2 in Clinique's classic 3-Step routine alongside a cleanser and moisturizer. Using all three together is how Clinique intends the system to work, though it isn't required.
Is this toner scented?
No, it's labeled unscented and fragrance free, which makes it a reasonable pick if you prefer your skincare without added scent. That also makes it a bit more layering friendly with other fragrance free products in a routine.