Estée Lauder Soft Clean Infusion Hydrating Skin Essence Face Lotion Toner with Amino Acid + Waterlily, 13.5 Fl Oz Review
Our verdict
Estee Lauder's Soft Clean Infusion Hydrating Skin Essence is a lotion-textured toner built around an amino acid complex, hyaluronic acid, and waterlily flower extract, aimed at dry skin that wants a moisture boost after cleansing, and it holds a strong 4.8-star average across 277 reviews.
Check price on AmazonBest for
Dry skin types who want a lotion-style toner that layers hydration and softness into the routine right after cleansing.
Skip if
You have oily skin or prefer a lightweight, watery toner texture. This is formulated as a lotion, which is richer than a typical liquid toner.
- Priced 104% above the category median ($19.20 across 452 tracked models)
Our scorecard
-
Owner rating4.8/5
4.8 average across 277 owner ratings
-
Popularity2.1/5
277 owner reviews, fewer 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 essence toner from Estee Lauder is formulated as a lotion rather than a thin liquid, which sets it apart from many classic toners. The brand describes it as enveloping skin in moisture to help soothe, plump, and smooth, with the goal of leaving skin feeling soft and supple with a renewed glow. The key actives are an amino acid complex, hyaluronic acid, and waterlily flower extract, a combination aimed squarely at hydration.', 'It is marketed for dry skin and recommended for use both morning and night, applied with hands or a cotton pad after cleansing and before serum and moisturizer. At 13.5 fl oz for $39.10, the price per ounce is competitive for a prestige-brand hydrating essence, and the larger bottle size means it should last through many applications.', 'Buyer feedback backs up the hydration focus, with 277 reviews averaging 4.8 stars, one of the higher ratings in this roundup. The brand recognition of Estee Lauder combined with that rating suggests a formula that reliably delivers on its moisture claims for the dry-skin audience it targets.']
Pros
- Very high 4.8-star average across 277 reviews
- Lotion texture layers hydration well for dry skin
- Contains amino acid complex, hyaluronic acid, and waterlily extract
- Generous 13.5 fl oz size
- Clear AM and PM usage instructions from the brand
Cons
- Higher price point than drugstore or K-beauty toner alternatives
- Lotion texture may feel too rich for oily or combination skin
- Formulated specifically for dry skin, less versatile for other skin types
- Scent name listed as Hibiscus, which may not suit fragrance-sensitive users
Performance notes
Hyaluronic acid is a well-established humectant that helps skin hold onto water, while the amino acid complex supports the skin's natural moisture-binding proteins. Waterlily flower extract is included as a soothing, calming ingredient. Because this essence has a lotion consistency rather than a thin liquid, it likely deposits a slightly heavier hydrating layer on the skin than a standard toner, which lines up with its dry-skin positioning.
What buyers say
A 4.8-star average from 277 reviews is a strong signal of buyer satisfaction, and this rating sits above several other toners in this category, suggesting the hydration claims are landing well with the dry-skin audience it targets.
More from Brand
Similar women's everyday face care: moisturizers, face mists, facial kits, rollers, cleansing brushes and steamers to consider
Frequently asked questions
How is this different from a traditional watery toner?
This product has a lotion texture rather than the thin, watery consistency typical of classic toners. That means it delivers a more noticeable layer of moisture on application, which is why Estee Lauder positions it specifically for dry skin. If you are used to a light, quick-absorbing toner, this will feel richer and more like a light lotion step in your routine.
When should this be applied in a skincare routine?
The brand recommends applying it after cleansing, using your hands or a cotton pad, and following with serum and moisturizer both in the morning and at night. Using it consistently at both times of day is how the brand intends for the hydrating benefits to build over your routine.
Is this suitable for oily or combination skin?
The product is specifically formulated and marketed for dry skin, and its lotion texture is richer than what oily or combination skin types typically prefer in a toner. If your skin tends toward oiliness, a lighter liquid toner would likely be a better fit than this essence.