# Clinique Clarifying Lotion 3 for dry sensitive skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/clinique/clarifying-lotion-3/for/dry-sensitive-skin

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

Brand: [Clinique](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/brands/clinique)
Category: [Toners](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/best/toners)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with dry sensitive skin: flakiness, tightness, redness, fine lines, and wrinkles. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

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

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate exfoliation for your dry and flaky skin due to the presence of salicylic acid and citric acid, which aid in removing dead skin cells.
- However, the inclusion of alcohol denat alongside salicylic acid may prove too drying and irritating for your dry and sensitive skin, despite the glycerin's humectant properties.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/clinique/clarifying-lotion-3/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/clinique/clarifying-lotion-3/for/dry-skin): Warning
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/clinique/clarifying-lotion-3/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/clinique/clarifying-lotion-3/for/sensitive-skin): Low
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/clinique/clarifying-lotion-3/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/clinique/clarifying-lotion-3/for/dark-spots): Low
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/clinique/clarifying-lotion-3/for/mature-skin): Low
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/clinique/clarifying-lotion-3/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Caution (this page)
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/clinique/clarifying-lotion-3/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Salicylic Acid, Witch Hazel, Glycerin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Citric Acid

## 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 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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

Based on a very large amount of data, this exfoliating toner for combination-oily skin is frequently praised for its effectiveness in controlling excess oil, unclogging pores, and leaving the face feeling clean. Many users report smoother skin texture and improved absorption of subsequent products. However, the high alcohol content is a frequent point of contention; while some find it beneficial for acne and texture, others experience it as overly drying and stripping, especially on sensitive areas.

- Disliked: Strong alcohol smell (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Clears acne & pores (often mentioned)
- Liked: Controls oil & shine (often mentioned)
- Liked: Preps for moisturizer (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Smooths skin texture (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Drying and stripping (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Poor bottle design (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Stings open skin (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this exfoliating toner only in your PM routine, starting 1×/week since your skin is sensitive. Carefully build up frequency only if your skin feels comfortable.
- Apply the exfoliating toner after using your cleanser and before your final moisturizer. This ensures it works effectively on clean skin.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the exfoliating toner into your skin using your hands. Avoid rubbing to prevent any irritation.
- Apply the exfoliating toner on completely dry skin to ensure better tolerance for your sensitive type. Let it absorb fully before moving to the next step.
- Do a patch test before your first use and avoid the delicate eye area. Keep this product separate from other strong acids or retinoids to protect your skin barrier.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/020cca37b222f917c1e8d86638215d98.mp4

## Questions and answers

### Why does Lovi advise caution with Clinique Clarifying Lotion 3 for dry sensitive skin?

Lovi advises caution because the alcohol and salicylic acid in this exfoliating toner may prove too drying and irritating for your dry and sensitive skin. A product for this skin needs a formulation rich in hydrating agents and gentle exfoliants that enhance moisture levels and support the skin barrier without causing irritation.

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

Alcohol denat alongside salicylic acid makes this toner a poor fit because it may prove too drying and irritating for your dry and sensitive skin. A product of this type needs effective hydrating and exfoliating ingredients that enhance moisture levels without posing any risk of irritation, thus providing excellent benefits for your skin concerns.

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

Salicylic acid is generally a poor fit for dry, sensitive skin because it is designed to clear out pores by removing excess oil, which can easily leave dry skin irritated. A product of this type needs gentle exfoliating helpers paired with rich, soothing moisturizers and barrier-repairing ingredients to keep dry skin calm and comfortable.

### What does Witch Hazel do for dry sensitive skin?

Witch Hazel helps calm dry sensitive skin by reducing redness and soothing irritation while keeping moisture locked in. It is unlikely to cause discomfort when you choose an alcohol-free formula that hydrates as it protects.
Sources: [Phytochemistry, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11684194/), [International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36012541/)

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

This exfoliating toner is a poor match for your dry and sensitive skin because the alcohol and acids may prove too drying and irritating. To safely care for this skin type, a product needs gentle hydrating and nourishing ingredients like glycerin and soothing plant extracts instead.

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

You should exercise caution when combining this toner with retinol, as the alcohol denat and salicylic acid may prove too drying and irritating for your dry and sensitive skin. If you still choose to use them together, apply the toner first on dry skin, wait for it to absorb fully, and then follow with your retinol product to help minimize potential irritation.

### How often should I use this toner?

This exfoliating toner is a poor match for dry sensitive skin, as the alcohol and acids may prove too drying and irritating. To use a product of this type safely on this skin, it needs gentle exfoliating acids paired with soothing ingredients and extra moisture to keep the skin calm and smooth.

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

This toner is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts on dry sensitive skin, but the strong alcohol and salicylic acid may cause irritation and dryness. A product for this skin needs gentle hydrating ingredients like glycerin and soothing plant extracts without drying alcohols.

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

It has no fragrance and contains drying alcohol (alcohol denat).

## Alternatives for dry sensitive skin

- [SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Tone Brightening Boosting Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/skin1004/madagascar-centella-tone-brightening-boosting-toner/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — High fit — €22.80 at Amazon
- [Inkey List PHA Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-inkey-list/pha-toner/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — High fit — €13.99 at Amazon
- [First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/first-aid-beauty/facial-radiance-pads/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — High fit — €17.25 at Lookfantastic

## Routine for dry sensitive skin

### AM

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €9.19 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Pixi Milky Tonic](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/pixi/milky-tonic/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €30.10 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [d'Alba UVessence Mild Waterfull Sun Cream SPF 50](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/d-alba/uvessence-mild-waterfull-sun-cream-spf-50/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €20.40 at Amazon

### PM

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €15.90 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €9.19 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Pixi Milky Tonic](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/pixi/milky-tonic/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €30.10 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Purito Centella Unscented Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/purito/centella-unscented-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €17.60 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/drunk-elephant/protini-polypeptide-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €92.92 at Amazon

### Weekly

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €15.90 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €9.19 at Amazon
- Enzyme Powder: [Fancl Facial Washing Powder](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/fancl/facial-washing-powder/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €19.30 at Amazon
- Nourishing Mask: [MEDIHEAL Vita Essential Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/mediheal/vita-essential-mask/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €31.93 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Purito Centella Unscented Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/purito/centella-unscented-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €17.60 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/drunk-elephant/protini-polypeptide-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €92.92 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.it: €34.00 (https://www.amazon.it/dp/B008IBDY74?tag=lovi-care-web-product09-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Notino: €23.50 (https://www.notino.it/clinique/3-steps-lozione-tonica-per-pelli-grasse-e-miste/p-66537/)
Prices checked 10 Oct – 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Alcohol Denat, Salicylic Acid, Witch Hazel, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Trehalose, Sodium Hyaluronate, Citric Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Disodium Edta, Bht, Phenoxyethanol, Benzophenone-4, Ext, Violet 2, Ci 15850, Ci 15510
## 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/clinique/clarifying-lotion-3/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/clinique/clarifying-lotion-3/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/clinique/clarifying-lotion-3/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/clinique/clarifying-lotion-3/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/clinique/clarifying-lotion-3/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/clinique/clarifying-lotion-3/for/dry-sensitive-skin (this page)
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/clinique/clarifying-lotion-3/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/clinique/clarifying-lotion-3/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/clinique/clarifying-lotion-3/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/clinique/clarifying-lotion-3/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/clinique/clarifying-lotion-3/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/clinique/clarifying-lotion-3/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/clinique/clarifying-lotion-3/for/dry-sensitive-skin