# Estée Lauder Perfectly Clean Multi-Action Toning Lotion/Refiner for skin with dark spots

**Lovi Fit: High fit for skin with dark spots.**
Normal Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: Excellent.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/estee-lauder/perfectly-clean-multi-action-toning-lotion-refiner/for/dark-spots

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

Brand: [Estée Lauder](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/brands/estee-lauder)
Category: [Toners](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/best/toners)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with dark spots: hyperpigmentation, sun spots, and uneven skin tone. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

A great choice for skin with dark spots; a few toners fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate exfoliation for your normal skin due to lactobionic acid, while glycerin and sodium hyaluronate provide essential hydration and moisture retention. Although it offers general skincare benefits like soothing from Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, it does not specifically target your main concern of pigmentation.
- The formulation is highly suitable for normal skin types, with ingredients like trehalose enhancing moisture retention.
- The safety profile is excellent, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the inclusion of soothing agents like Biosaccharide 1 Gum.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/estee-lauder/perfectly-clean-multi-action-toning-lotion-refiner/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/estee-lauder/perfectly-clean-multi-action-toning-lotion-refiner/for/dry-skin): Low
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/estee-lauder/perfectly-clean-multi-action-toning-lotion-refiner/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/estee-lauder/perfectly-clean-multi-action-toning-lotion-refiner/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/estee-lauder/perfectly-clean-multi-action-toning-lotion-refiner/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/estee-lauder/perfectly-clean-multi-action-toning-lotion-refiner/for/dark-spots): High (this page)
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/estee-lauder/perfectly-clean-multi-action-toning-lotion-refiner/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/estee-lauder/perfectly-clean-multi-action-toning-lotion-refiner/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Low
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/estee-lauder/perfectly-clean-multi-action-toning-lotion-refiner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Sodium Hyaluronate, Lactobionic Acid, Witch Hazel, Glycerin, Bambusa Vulgaris Extract

## What the research says

- 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/))
- An emulsion containing 10% lactobionic acid significantly reduces human skin surface pH without causing skin irritation or barrier impairment. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30859734/))
- Sodium trehalose sulfate decreased transepidermal water loss and increased stratum corneum water content in participants with low stratum corneum water content when applied for 4 weeks compared to placebo. ([Skin Research and Technology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38606717/))
- Topical application of 0.1% hyaluronic acid formulations of different molecular weights led to significant improvements in skin hydration and elasticity, with low-molecular-weight formulations also significantly reducing wrinkle depth in seventy-six female subjects compared to a vehicle control. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/))
- Topical application of hyaluronic acid in conjunction with free gingival graft significantly reduced donor site postoperative pain until day 7 compared to normal saline, with no significant differences in graft dimensions or patient satisfaction. ([Clinical Oral Investigations, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34623507/))
- Treatment with a hyaluronic acid-containing mouth rinse or topical gel led to significant lesion reduction, pain relief, and normalization of lesion color in adult patients with minor recurrent aphthous stomatitis, with the gel formulation showing an earlier healing onset at 3 days. ([BMC Oral Health, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31311529/))
- Lactobionic acid produced better skin performance with a lack of skin irritation and barrier impairment compared to glycolic acid in 77 healthy volunteers. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20367666/))
- Combining a 20% lactobionic acid peel with aluminum oxide crystal microdermabrasion increases skin hydration, improves elasticity, and decreases transepidermal water loss in 20 Caucasian females compared to lactobionic acid peel alone. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30661294/))
- Carboxytherapy alone and combined with lactobionic acid, ferulic acid, and ascorbic acid significantly reduced vascular dark circles and combined pigmentation in the tear trough and lower eyelid of 39 Caucasian participants. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39193094/))
- A Hamamelis virginiana leaf extract increased LOXL1 expression twofold, decreased elafin synthesis, restored functional elastic fibers, reduced nonfunctional elastin aggregates, decreased wrinkles, and improved skin firmness. ([Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30052192/))
- Hamamelis bark proanthocyanidins strongly increased the proliferation of cultured human keratinocytes and reduced transepidermal water loss and erythema formation in SLS-irritated skin, whereas the polysaccharide fraction had no effect. ([Phytochemistry, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11684194/))
- Witch hazel bark extract and hamamelitannin showed pronounced anti-inflammatory activity, supported keratinocyte migration in a wound healing assay, and inhibited Staphylococcus aureus growth, whereas their skin microbiota metabolite ellagic acid stimulated inflammatory mediator release. ([Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40819781/))
- 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/))
- Niacinamide/glycerin body moisturizers provided better rapid and prolonged improvement of cosmetic xerosis through functional improvement of stratum corneum barrier function compared to no treatment and conventional moisturizers in female subjects. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22206073/))
- Ethyl acetate and aqueous fractions of Bambusa vulgaris leaves accelerate cutaneous wound healing and inhibit carrageenan-induced paw edema in rats. ([Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27297505/))

## What reviewers say

Users generally praise this product as a refreshing, dual-action toner that gently exfoliates and balances the skin without stripping moisture, leaving the complexion smooth and radiant. While effective for most skin types, including dry and combination skin, some users with sensitive skin caution that the alcohol content and fragrance may cause stinging or irritation.

- Liked: Refreshing feel (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle exfoliation (often mentioned)
- Liked: Non-drying formula (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Pleasant scent (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: High price point (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Alcohol content (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Skin irritation (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Strong fragrance (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your exfoliating toner in your PM routine. Start once a week and slowly increase if your skin likes it.
- Apply after your cleanser, before your moisturizer. This step helps target your pigmentation goals effectively.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the exfoliating toner into your skin. Avoid rubbing to keep your face happy.
- Apply the exfoliating toner on clean and completely dry skin. This ensures the best comfort for normal skin.
- Always avoid the eye area and use SPF daily while using this exfoliating toner.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/020cca37b222f917c1e8d86638215d98.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Estée Lauder Perfectly Clean Toning Lotion a great fit for skin with dark spots?

Estée Lauder Perfectly Clean Toning Lotion is a great fit for your skin because it offers gentle exfoliation with lactobionic acid while keeping your face hydrated and smooth with glycerin and sodium hyaluronate. It also has a very safe and gentle formula that is unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30859734/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Which ingredients make this toner a good fit for skin with dark spots?

This toner is a good fit because lactobionic acid gently smooths your skin, while glycerin and sodium hyaluronate keep it feeling soft and well-hydrated. It also includes soothing witch hazel and dipotassium glycyrrhizate to keep your skin calm, though it does not actively fade dark spots.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30859734/)

### What does Hyaluronic Acid do for skin with dark spots?

Hyaluronic acid is unlikely to directly fade dark spots, but it helps keep dry and uneven skin plump and deeply hydrated. To effectively target dark spots, this type of skin needs brightening ingredients like vitamin C or niacinamide alongside your hydrator.

### What does Lactobionic Acid do for skin with dark spots?

Lactobionic acid helps brighten skin with dark spots while remaining gentle and unlikely to cause irritation. It is often combined in formulas that significantly alleviate pigmentation and protect against sun-related darkening.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35713107/), [Cutis, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15002656/)

### Where does this toner go in a skincare routine for skin with dark spots?

This exfoliating toner fits into your evening routine after cleansing and before your treatment. Start using it just once a week, and if your skin tolerates it well and you see good results, you can carefully use it more often.

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

You can use this toner in your evening routine before your retinol treatment. The formula has a very safe profile and is unlikely to cause irritation because it contains soothing agents like Biosaccharide 1 Gum.

### How often should I use this toner?

Start using this exfoliating toner once a week to see how your skin reacts. If your skin feels comfortable and you see good results, you may carefully use it more often.

### Can this toner clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for skin with dark spots?

This exfoliating toner is unlikely to cause breakouts or purging, and its safety profile is excellent with soothing agents that keep skin calm. Lactobionic acid offers moderate exfoliation without irritation, while glycerin and sodium hyaluronate keep your skin hydrated.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30859734/)

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

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

## Alternatives for skin with dark spots

- [SOME BY MI AHA-BHA-PHA 30 Days Miracle Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/some-by-mi/aha-bha-pha-30-days-miracle-toner/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — CA$65.99 at Amazon
- [SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Tone Brightening Boosting Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skin1004/madagascar-centella-tone-brightening-boosting-toner/for/dark-spots) — High fit — CA$27.25 at Amazon
- [ANUA BHA 2% Gentle Exfoliating Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/anua/bha-2-gentle-exfoliating-toner/for/dark-spots) — High fit — CA$31.40 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — CA$20.96 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Allies of Skin Peptides & Antioxidants Firming Daily Treatment](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/allies-of-skin/peptides-and-antioxidants-firming-daily-treatment/for/dark-spots) — High fit — CA$98.99 at Amazon
- SPF: [Torriden DIVE-IN Mild Sunscreen](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/torriden/dive-in-mild-sunscreen/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — CA$27.34 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.ca: CA$48.00 (https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B00CAUJJM8?tag=lovi-care-web-product01-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Shoppers Drug Mart: CA$48.00 (https://www.shoppersdrugmart.ca/estee-lauder-perfectly-clean-multi-action-toning-lotion-refiner/p/BB_027131988137?variantCode=027131988137)
- Sephora: CA$48.00 (https://www.sephora.com/ca/en/product/perfectly-clean-multi-action-toning-lotion-refiner-P380030?skuId=1521475)
Prices checked 10 Oct – 2 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Alcohol Denat, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Hypnea Musciformis Extract Algae Extract, Gellidiela Acerosa Extract Algae Extract, Witch Hazel, Silybum Marianum Extract, Bambusa Vulgaris Extract, Pisum Sativum Extract, Gentiana Lutea Root Extract, Algae Extract, Rice Bran Extract, Yeast Extract, Sucrose, Trehalose, Lactobionic Acid, Peg-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Sorbitol, Caffeine, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Biosaccharide 1 Gum, Ppg-26-Buteth-26, Sodium Hyaluronate, Zinc Pca, Pentylene Glycol, Ppg-5-Ceteth-20, Sodium Hydroxide, Glucosamine Hcl, Parfum, Phytic Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Disodium Edta, Phenoxyethanol
## 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/estee-lauder/perfectly-clean-multi-action-toning-lotion-refiner/for/dark-spots
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/estee-lauder/perfectly-clean-multi-action-toning-lotion-refiner/for/dark-spots
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/estee-lauder/perfectly-clean-multi-action-toning-lotion-refiner/for/dark-spots
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/estee-lauder/perfectly-clean-multi-action-toning-lotion-refiner/for/dark-spots
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/estee-lauder/perfectly-clean-multi-action-toning-lotion-refiner/for/dark-spots
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/estee-lauder/perfectly-clean-multi-action-toning-lotion-refiner/for/dark-spots
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/estee-lauder/perfectly-clean-multi-action-toning-lotion-refiner/for/dark-spots
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/estee-lauder/perfectly-clean-multi-action-toning-lotion-refiner/for/dark-spots
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/estee-lauder/perfectly-clean-multi-action-toning-lotion-refiner/for/dark-spots (this page)
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/estee-lauder/perfectly-clean-multi-action-toning-lotion-refiner/for/dark-spots
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/estee-lauder/perfectly-clean-multi-action-toning-lotion-refiner/for/dark-spots
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/estee-lauder/perfectly-clean-multi-action-toning-lotion-refiner/for/dark-spots
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/estee-lauder/perfectly-clean-multi-action-toning-lotion-refiner/for/dark-spots