# Neutrogena Blackhead Eliminating Cleansing Toner for sensitive skin

**Lovi Fit: Caution fit for sensitive skin.**
Normal Skin Fit: Average · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: Risky.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/neutrogena/blackhead-eliminating-cleansing-toner/for/sensitive-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for Australia.

Brand: [Neutrogena](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/brands/neutrogena)
Category: [Toners](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/best/toners)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with sensitive skin: redness, stinging, and reactions to new products. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

A poor match for sensitive skin; the cleansing toners alongside fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate cleansing and pore decongestion for your normal skin due to salicylic acid, which exfoliates and decongests pores, though it may not deliver optimal results as it lacks sufficient hydrating or barrier-supporting ingredients.
- The presence of menthyl lactate provides a mild cooling sensation, which can be beneficial for redness and irritation.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/neutrogena/blackhead-eliminating-cleansing-toner/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/neutrogena/blackhead-eliminating-cleansing-toner/for/dry-skin): Warning
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/neutrogena/blackhead-eliminating-cleansing-toner/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/neutrogena/blackhead-eliminating-cleansing-toner/for/sensitive-skin): Caution (this page)
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/neutrogena/blackhead-eliminating-cleansing-toner/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/neutrogena/blackhead-eliminating-cleansing-toner/for/dark-spots): Caution
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/neutrogena/blackhead-eliminating-cleansing-toner/for/mature-skin): Caution
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/neutrogena/blackhead-eliminating-cleansing-toner/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Caution
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/neutrogena/blackhead-eliminating-cleansing-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Salicylic Acid, Glycerin, Citric Acid, Menthyl Lactate, Alcohol Denat

## What the research says

- Cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen achieved a higher cure rate (39%) than salicylic acid (24%) and a wait-and-see approach (16%) for cutaneous warts at 13 weeks in primary care patients. ([CMAJ, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20837684/))
- A moisturizer containing licochalcone A, 1,2-decanediol, L-carnitine, and salicylic acid significantly reduced noninflammatory, inflammatory, and total acne lesion counts compared to a vehicle control in Thai patients during a 12-week maintenance phase. ([BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/))
- Treatment with 2% supramolecular salicylic acid hydrogel resulted in a regression and markedly improvement rate of 51.01% compared to 43.10% for Adapaline gel in patients with mild to moderate facial acne vulgaris, showing no significant difference in efficacy. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38590107/))
- A single application of a moisturizing fluid containing hyaluronic acid 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract significantly increased skin hydration by 29% and reduced transepidermal water loss at 24 hours compared to baseline and an untreated control site in twenty healthy women. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/))
- The emollient V0034CR significantly reduced TEWL compared to vehicle and vehicle plus glycerol, and significantly increased corneometry scores compared to vehicle and vehicle plus petrolatum in healthy volunteers with dry skin, demonstrating combined barrier function improvement from petrolatum and hydration improvement from glycerol. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31532576/))
- Ten days of treatment with a cream containing 20% glycerin significantly increased skin hydration measured by corneometer values in 17 healthy volunteers compared to a placebo cream, but showed no influence on transepidermal water loss or skin sensitivity to an irritating surfactant. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18498456/))
- A novel composition containing salicylic acid, capryloyl salicylic acid, HEPES, glycolic acid, citric acid, and dioic acid showed similar tolerance and efficacy compared with clindamycin 1% and benzoyl peroxide 5% gel in subjects with acne vulgaris. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23545907/))
- Daily treatment with a facial serum containing multiple acids reduced post-inflammatory hyperchromia lesion grade and number by 29.4% at 56 days, and decreased skin oiliness by 30.7% at 7 days in Brazilian patients with acne vulgaris. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33617668/))
- Topical 20% citric acid lotion increases viable epidermal thickness and dermal glycosaminoglycan content in sun-damaged skin compared to vehicle alone. ([Dermatologic Surgery, 1997](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9256916/))

## What reviewers say

Users with oily and acne-prone skin frequently praise this toner for its ability to deep clean pores and visibly reduce blackheads over time. A moderate number of users also note its effectiveness in controlling oil and providing a refreshing sensation. However, a high number of users with sensitive or dry skin report that the high alcohol content causes stinging, redness, and excessive dryness.

- Liked: Deep cleaning (often mentioned)
- Liked: Effective on blackheads (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Stings or burns (often mentioned)
- Liked: Controls oil/shine (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Refreshing sensation (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Drying and stripping (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Strong chemical smell (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Causes irritation/redness (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Could be used as part of your AM or PM routine. Start using the cleansing toner 3 times a week and move to daily use if your skin is happy.
- Apply the cleansing toner after cleansing and before your moisturizer or SPF. This step prepares your skin for the next products.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the cleansing toner into your skin and avoid rubbing. Let it ⏱absorb for a minute before the next step.
- Since your skin is sensitive, apply the cleansing toner on dry skin for better comfort. This helps reduce any redness and irritation.
- Do a patch test before your first use and avoid the eye area. Stop using it if your skin feels uncomfortable.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/25abe7eb181ba53153fd15de2058c2a9.mp4

## Questions and answers

### Why does Lovi advise caution with Neutrogena Blackhead Eliminating Cleansing Toner for sensitive skin?

This cleansing toner is a poor match for sensitive skin because it contains alcohol and strong exfoliating ingredients that may easily cause irritation, dryness, and redness. A cleansing toner for this skin type needs gentle exfoliating ingredients paired with plenty of hydrating and barrier-supporting ingredients to keep skin calm and soft.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

### Which ingredients make this toner a poor fit for sensitive skin?

Alcohol denat and salicylic acid make this toner a poor fit because they can easily dry out and irritate sensitive skin. A cleansing toner for sensitive skin needs soothing and hydrating ingredients like glycerin, along with gentle exfoliants that keep the skin calm and smooth.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

### What does Salicylic Acid do for sensitive skin?

Salicylic acid may cause irritation on sensitive skin, so it requires careful use and good sun protection to keep skin comfortable. A product for this skin type needs gentle, soothing ingredients and a mild formula that respects the skin barrier.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 1999](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10233334/), [International Journal of Toxicology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14617432/)

### What does Glycerin do for sensitive skin?

Glycerin helps keep sensitive skin soft and deeply hydrated while supporting the skin barrier. It is unlikely to cause irritation and may protect against dryness and roughness.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18510666/), [Acta Dermato-venereologica, 1999](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10598752/)

### Where does this toner go in a skincare routine for sensitive skin?

This toner is not recommended for sensitive skin because it lacks soothing and barrier-supporting ingredients to protect delicate skin. A toner for this skin needs gentle, calming, and hydrating ingredients to keep skin soft and comfortable.

### Can I use this toner with retinol, and in what order?

Using this toner with retinol is generally not recommended for sensitive skin because it contains alcohol denat and salicylic acid, which may cause dryness and irritation. Instead, sensitive skin needs gentle, hydrating, and barrier-supporting products that protect while using strong treatments like retinol.

### How often should I use this toner?

This toner is a poor match for sensitive skin and may cause irritation, so you should use it with caution starting just once a week. If your skin tolerates it well without dryness or discomfort, you may carefully use it more often. This type of product needs soothing ingredients and extra moisture to keep sensitive skin calm and soft.

### Can this toner clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for sensitive skin?

This toner is unlikely to clog pores since it contains salicylic acid to help clear them out, but it may cause dryness and stinging on sensitive skin due to alcohol denat and fragrance. A product for this skin needs gentle pore-clearing ingredients paired with extra soothing and hydrating agents.

### Is this toner fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

It contains fragrance (parfum) and drying alcohol (alcohol denat).

## Alternatives for sensitive skin

- [First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/first-aid-beauty/facial-radiance-pads/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — A$62.73 at Amazon
- [The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-ordinary/glycolic-acid-7-toning-solution/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — A$14.20 at Amazon
- [Isntree Chestnut BHA 0.9% Clear Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/isntree/chestnut-bha-0-9-clear-toner/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — A$38.20 at Amazon

## Routine for sensitive skin

### AM

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — A$73.61 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/clarins/soothing-toning-lotion/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — A$54.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [Bioderma Bioderma Photoderm Mineral SPF 50+](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/bioderma/photoderm-mineral-fluide-spf50/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — A$24.49 at Amazon

### PM

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — A$27.35 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — A$73.61 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/clarins/soothing-toning-lotion/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — A$54.00 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Purito Centella Unscented Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/purito/centella-unscented-serum/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — A$32.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Enrich Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/skin1004/madagascar-centella-probio-cica-enrich-cream/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — A$32.25 at Amazon

### Weekly

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — A$27.35 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — A$73.61 at Amazon
- Enzyme Powder: [Fancl Facial Washing Powder](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/fancl/facial-washing-powder/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — A$35.50 at Amazon
- Nourishing Mask: [MEDIHEAL Vita Essential Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/mediheal/vita-essential-mask/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — A$28.48 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Purito Centella Unscented Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/purito/centella-unscented-serum/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — A$32.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Enrich Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/skin1004/madagascar-centella-probio-cica-enrich-cream/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — A$32.25 at Amazon

## Where to buy

No store in Australia has a checked price for this product, so the page shows none.

## Ingredients

Water, Alcohol Denat, Ppg-5-Ceteth-20, Glycerin, Citric Acid, Salicylic Acid, Menthyl Lactate, Sodium Citrate, Parfum
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/neutrogena/blackhead-eliminating-cleansing-toner/for/sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/neutrogena/blackhead-eliminating-cleansing-toner/for/sensitive-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/neutrogena/blackhead-eliminating-cleansing-toner/for/sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/neutrogena/blackhead-eliminating-cleansing-toner/for/sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/neutrogena/blackhead-eliminating-cleansing-toner/for/sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/neutrogena/blackhead-eliminating-cleansing-toner/for/sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/neutrogena/blackhead-eliminating-cleansing-toner/for/sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/neutrogena/blackhead-eliminating-cleansing-toner/for/sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/neutrogena/blackhead-eliminating-cleansing-toner/for/sensitive-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/neutrogena/blackhead-eliminating-cleansing-toner/for/sensitive-skin (this page)
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/neutrogena/blackhead-eliminating-cleansing-toner/for/sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/neutrogena/blackhead-eliminating-cleansing-toner/for/sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/neutrogena/blackhead-eliminating-cleansing-toner/for/sensitive-skin