# Clinique Clarifying Lotion 2 for dry sensitive skin

**Lovi Fit: Caution fit for dry sensitive skin.**
Dry Skin Fit: Low · Effectiveness: High · Safety: Concerning.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/clinique/clarifying-lotion-2/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 the Netherlands.

Brand: [Clinique](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/brands/clinique)
Category: [Toners](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/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 sensitive skin due to salicylic acid, but the inclusion of alcohol denat may counteract hydration benefits and potentially irritate your skin.
- While witch hazel extract offers some astringent properties, the overall formulation may not provide sufficient hydration for your dry skin type.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/clinique/clarifying-lotion-2/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/clinique/clarifying-lotion-2/for/dry-skin): Caution
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/clinique/clarifying-lotion-2/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/clinique/clarifying-lotion-2/for/sensitive-skin): Low
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/clinique/clarifying-lotion-2/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/clinique/clarifying-lotion-2/for/dark-spots): Caution
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/clinique/clarifying-lotion-2/for/mature-skin): Low
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/clinique/clarifying-lotion-2/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Caution (this page)
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/clinique/clarifying-lotion-2/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Witch Hazel, Aloe Barbadensis, Lactic 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/))
- Repeated short-contact 70% glycolic acid peels provided superior results in atrophic acne scars compared to daily low-strength glycolic acid cream or placebo in 58 women over 24 weeks. ([International Journal of Dermatology, 2000](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11095203/))
- Serial glycolic acid peels combined with a modified Kligman formula significantly reduced facial PIH severity in Indian patients compared to the modified Kligman formula alone. ([Dermatologic Surgery, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28114204/))
- 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 cream combining propolis, tea tree oil, and Aloe vera reduced erythema scars, acne severity index, and total lesion count better than erythromycin cream in sixty patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris compared to placebo. ([Clinical Pharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/))
- Topical aloe vera gel significantly accelerated split-thickness skin graft donor-site healing compared to placebo in 12 patients, but showed no significant difference in pain relief. ([Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29649056/))
- Topical application of Aloe vera cream reduced postoperative pain at rest and during defecation, accelerated wound healing at two weeks, and decreased analgesic requirements in patients after open hemorrhoidectomy compared to placebo. ([Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20569031/))
- Application of a cream containing lactic acid 12% and pramoxine HCl 1% significantly improved skin dryness, hydration, and itch compared with a nontreated control in 24 women with a history of dry itchy skin. ([Cutis, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15027519/))
- Topical 12% ammonium lactate produced a significant sparing of epidermal and dermal atrophy induced by clobetasol propionate in human volunteers, without influencing the corticosteroid's bioavailability or antiinflammatory properties. ([Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 1992](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1597538/))
- A lactic acid/ceramide lotion significantly improved skin moisturization and desquamation compared to no treatment in women with dry, rough skin on the anterior shins. ([The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33178384/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users with dry combination skin generally praise this lotion for its ability to remove dull flakes and residual grime, leaving skin feeling "squeaky clean" and prepped for moisturizer. A significant portion of reviewers find the high alcohol content polarizing, with some experiencing stinging, redness, and excessive dryness, particularly those with sensitive skin conditions.

- Liked: Effective exfoliation (mostly mentioned)
- Disliked: Strong alcohol smell (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Clean and fresh (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Drying and stripping (often mentioned)
- Liked: Improves skin texture (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Preps for moisturizer (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Irritation and stinging (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Caused breakouts (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 2 for dry sensitive skin?

This toner offers moderate exfoliation with salicylic acid, but alcohol denat may counteract hydration and potentially irritate dry sensitive skin. A product for this skin needs effective hydrating and exfoliating ingredients that enhance moisture levels without posing any risk of irritation.

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

Alcohol denat may counteract hydration benefits and potentially irritate dry sensitive skin, while the overall formulation may not provide sufficient hydration. A product of this type needs gentle exfoliants and rich hydrating agents that enhance moisture levels and support the skin barrier without causing irritation.

### 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 Glycolic Acid do for dry sensitive skin?

Glycolic acid can be too harsh for dry sensitive skin and may cause irritation, so this skin type needs gentle calming ingredients and deeply nourishing moisturizers to keep the skin barrier safe and smooth.
Sources: [Acta Dermato-venereologica, 1995](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8651024/), [The British Journal of Dermatology, 1997](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9470910/)

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

This exfoliating toner is a poor match for your dry and sensitive skin, as alcohol denat may counteract hydration and potentially irritate your skin. When using a product of this type, your routine needs soothing ingredients and extra hydration to keep skin calm and soft.

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

It is best to avoid using this exfoliating toner alongside retinol on dry sensitive skin, as the combination may easily cause excessive irritation and dryness. If you do choose to use them, apply the toner first after cleansing, let it dry completely, and follow with your retinol on separate nights or spaced far apart.

### How often should I use it?

This exfoliating toner is a poor match for dry sensitive skin, so you should use it at most once a week only if your skin tolerates it well. A product of this type for your dry skin needs gentle exfoliating acids paired with soothing, rich hydrating ingredients to keep your skin soft and calm.

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

This toner is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts because it contains salicylic acid to keep pores clear, though it may dry out or irritate dry sensitive skin. A product of this type needs gentle hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and soothing agents to protect dry skin without stripping away moisture.

### Is it 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/nl/p/skin1004/madagascar-centella-tone-brightening-boosting-toner/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — High fit — €24.81 at Amazon
- [First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/first-aid-beauty/facial-radiance-pads/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — High fit — €124.67 at Amazon
- [Inkey List PHA Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-inkey-list/pha-toner/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — High fit — €10.50 at Amazon

## Routine for dry sensitive skin

### AM

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €15.00 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [SKIN1004 Centella Asiatica Toning Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/skin1004/centella-asiatica-toning-toner/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €17.96 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [d'Alba UVessence Mild Waterfull Sun Cream SPF 50](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/d-alba/uvessence-mild-waterfull-sun-cream-spf-50/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €16.75 at Amazon

### PM

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €11.83 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €15.00 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [SKIN1004 Centella Asiatica Toning Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/skin1004/centella-asiatica-toning-toner/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €17.96 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/peach-and-lily/glass-skin-refining-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €86.59 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Lift and Firm Night Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/elizabeth-arden/advanced-ceramide-lift-and-firm-night-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €48.84 at Amazon

### Weekly

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €11.83 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €15.00 at Amazon
- Nourishing Mask: [Pyunkang Yul Calming Mask Pack](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/pyunkang-yul/calming-mask-pack/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €25.99 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/peach-and-lily/glass-skin-refining-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €86.59 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Lift and Firm Night Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/elizabeth-arden/advanced-ceramide-lift-and-firm-night-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €48.84 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Notino: €9.80 (https://www.notino.nl/clinique/3-steps-tonic-voor-droge-en-gemengde-huid/p-16050314/)
- Lookfantastic: €30.48 (https://www.lookfantastic.nl/p/clinique-clarifying-lotion-2-for-dry-combination-skin-200ml/11144129/)
Prices checked 17 Oct – 24 Oct 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Alcohol Denat, Glycerin, Witch Hazel Extract, Salicylic Acid, Butylene Glycol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Trehalose, Sodium Hydroxide, Disodium Edta, Phenoxyethanol, Red 33 Ci 17200, Ext, Violet 2
## 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-2/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/clinique/clarifying-lotion-2/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/clinique/clarifying-lotion-2/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/clinique/clarifying-lotion-2/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/clinique/clarifying-lotion-2/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/clinique/clarifying-lotion-2/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/clinique/clarifying-lotion-2/for/dry-sensitive-skin (this page)
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/clinique/clarifying-lotion-2/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/clinique/clarifying-lotion-2/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/clinique/clarifying-lotion-2/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/clinique/clarifying-lotion-2/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/clinique/clarifying-lotion-2/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/clinique/clarifying-lotion-2/for/dry-sensitive-skin