Clarifying Lotion 1
Clarifying Lotion 1
Product Description
A dermatologist-developed exfoliating lotion designed specifically for very dry to dry skin. Step 2 in Clinique's iconic 3-Step Skincare System, this gentle formula sweeps away dulling flakes, preps skin for moisturizer, and helps minimize the appearance of fine dry lines.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Gentle Exfoliation
Sweeps away dulling surface flakes and dead skin cells to reveal smoother, clearer skin without irritation.
Moisture Prep
Clears the way for moisturizer absorption - exfoliated skin is more receptive to hydration and treatment products.
Radiance Boost
Instantly delivers increased radiance and smoother-looking skin after just one use.
Dermatologist-Developed
Created with dermatological expertise since 1968 as part of the original 3-Step Skincare System.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
Contains salicylic acid (BHA). While low concentrations under 2% are generally considered safe, consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy.
Topical salicylic acid in low concentrations is unlikely to be absorbed significantly. Avoid applying to areas that contact baby's skin.
Free from ferments, fatty acids, esters, and polysorbates that can trigger or worsen fungal acne.
Oil-free, non-acnegenic formula rated 1/5 on the comedogenic scale. Unlikely to clog pores.
Denatured alcohol is the second ingredient. May be drying for extremely sensitive or compromised skin barriers.
100% fragrance-free and allergy tested. Clinique avoids common allergens and irritants in all formulations.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
π§ͺ Salicylic Acid (BHA) Proven
A beta hydroxy acid that penetrates pores to exfoliate from within. Dissolves the bonds between dead skin cells and helps unclog pores while reducing excess oil.
- Function: Chemical exfoliant, keratolytic, anti-inflammatory
- Research: Over 2,000 years of documented use for skin conditions
- Best For: Dull skin, clogged pores, rough texture
πΏ Witch Hazel (Hamamelis Virginiana) Traditional
A natural astringent with antioxidant and soothing properties. Contains tannins that help temporarily tighten and tone the skin while minimizing the appearance of pores.
- Function: Astringent, antioxidant, skin-conditioning
- Research: Clinical studies show soothing properties comparable to panthenol
- Best For: Oily zones, enlarged pores, skin refinement
π§ Sodium Hyaluronate Proven
The salt form of hyaluronic acid, capable of holding up to 1,000 times its weight in water. Attracts moisture to the upper layers of skin for improved hydration.
- Function: Humectant, skin-plumping, hydration
- Research: Extensively studied for anti-aging and hydration benefits
- Best For: Dehydrated skin, fine lines, moisture retention
π¬ Acetyl Glucosamine ~1-2% Promising
An amino acid sugar that serves as a precursor to hyaluronic acid synthesis. Clinically shown to improve wrinkles and fade hyperpigmentation in double-blind studies.
- Function: Exfoliant, skin-brightening, anti-aging
- Research: 2% shown to improve wrinkles and reduce brown spots
- Best For: Uneven skin tone, fine lines, dullness
π― Trehalose Supportive
A natural sugar with excellent water-binding properties. Helps keep skin hydrated and protected while supporting the skin's natural moisture barrier.
- Function: Humectant, moisture-binding, protective
- Research: Shown to protect cells from dehydration stress
- Best For: Dry skin, moisture retention, barrier support
16 ingredients
Water/Aqua/Eau, Alcohol Denat., Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel), Trehalose, Salicylic Acid, Acetyl Glucosamine, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Hydroxide, Tetrahydroxypropyl Ethylenediamine, Disodium EDTA, Phenoxyethanol, Benzophenone-4, Yellow 5 (CI 19140), Blue 1 (CI 42090)
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
This is Step 2 in Clinique's 3-Step System. Use immediately after cleansing, twice daily. Follow with Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion+ for optimal results.
π How to Use
Cleanse First
Start with clean skin. Use Clinique Facial Soap or your preferred gentle cleanser and pat dry.
Apply to Cotton Ball
Saturate a cotton ball or pad with the Clarifying Lotion. You'll need enough to sweep across your entire face and neck.
Sweep Gently
Sweep the cotton ball gently over your face and neck, avoiding the eye area and lips. No rinsing required.
Follow with Moisturizer
Immediately follow with your moisturizer while skin is still slightly damp for best absorption. Use AM and PM.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You have very dry to dry skin type
- Your skin looks dull and flaky
- You want smoother, more radiant skin
- Moisturizer doesn't seem to absorb well
- You prefer fragrance-free products
- You want a dermatologist-developed formula
- You need a gentle exfoliating step
- Fine dry lines are a concern
β Consider alternatives if:
- You have very sensitive, reactive skin
- You're allergic to salicylic acid
- Alcohol-based products irritate you
- You have oily or combination skin (try Clarifying Lotion 2, 3, or 4)
- You're pregnant and prefer to avoid BHA
- You have a compromised skin barrier
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Specifically formulated for very dry skin. Gentle exfoliation removes flakes that block moisturizer absorption.
Ideal match. Clears surface flakes and preps skin for deep hydration without over-drying.
May be too gentle for oily zones. Consider Clarifying Lotion 2 for dry combination skin instead.
Fragrance-free and allergy tested. Contains alcohol which may irritate very sensitive skin. Patch test first.
Formula 1 is too gentle for oily skin. Try Clarifying Lotion 3 or 4 for better oil control.
Helps minimize fine dry lines. Many users report looking 10-15 years younger with consistent use.
π Results Timeline
Instant Radiance
Skin appears cleaner, brighter, and more refreshed. Dead surface cells are swept away to reveal smoother skin underneath.
90% noticed immediatelyImproved Texture
Skin feels noticeably smoother. Moisturizer absorbs better and makeup applies more evenly. Reduced flakiness.
85% noticed improvementVisible Transformation
Skin looks clearer, more even-toned, and healthier. Fine dry lines appear diminished. Enhanced overall radiance.
78% saw significant resultsLong-Term Benefits
Consistent use maintains smooth, clear skin. Many long-term users report looking younger than their actual age. Skin barrier stays balanced.
92% would repurchaseβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Dermatologist-developed, trusted formula since 1968
- 100% fragrance-free and allergy tested
- Gentle enough for daily use, morning and night
- Instant radiance and smoother skin texture
- Preps skin perfectly for moisturizer absorption
- Large bottle lasts many months
- Helps reduce appearance of fine dry lines
- Non-comedogenic, won't clog pores
β Criticized
- Contains denatured alcohol (second ingredient)
- Higher price than drugstore alternatives
- May be too drying for extremely sensitive skin
- Colored formula can stain white fabrics
- Counterfeit concerns on some online marketplaces
- Not ideal for oily or combination skin types
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Similar witch hazel base but alcohol-free. Gentler formula but lacks the salicylic acid exfoliation. Better for very sensitive skin.
Direct Clinique dupe with similar ingredients profile. Same size for less than half the price. Great for budget-conscious shoppers.
Alcohol-free hydrating toner with hyaluronic acid. More focus on hydration than exfoliation. Popular K-beauty alternative.
Uses AHA instead of BHA for exfoliation. Stronger formula at 7% glycolic. May be too intense for very dry skin.
π Comparison with Competitors
Clinique Clarifying Lotion 1 (This Product)
$20-38Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
$35Clinique Clarifying Lotion 1.0 (Alcohol-Free)
$20-38Thayers Witch Hazel Toner (Unscented)
$12π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep cap tightly closed.
Opaque plastic bottle with twist-off cap. Protects formula from light degradation.
200ml size exceeds 100ml TSA limit. Decant for carry-on or pack in checked luggage.
β Frequently Asked Questions
This product contains salicylic acid (BHA), which belongs to the aspirin family. While topical salicylic acid in concentrations under 2% is generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to minimal absorption, many healthcare providers recommend caution. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists considers low-dose topical BHA products (2% or less) acceptable. However, we recommend consulting your doctor or midwife before use during pregnancy. For breastfeeding, avoid applying to areas that may contact baby's skin.
Yes! Clinique Clarifying Lotion 1 is fungal acne safe. The formula is free from ferments, fatty acids, oils, esters, and polysorbates that typically feed the malassezia yeast responsible for fungal acne. The salicylic acid in the formula may actually help by exfoliating and keeping pores clear. This makes it a suitable choice for those dealing with fungal acne on dry skin.
Since this product contains salicylic acid (BHA), be cautious when combining with other exfoliating acids. For vitamin C: You can use them in the same routine, but apply vitamin C first, wait a few minutes, then apply the Clarifying Lotion. For retinol: Use on alternate nights or apply retinol only at night and Clarifying Lotion only in the morning to avoid over-exfoliation. For AHAs: Avoid layering together as this increases irritation risk. If your skin tolerates acids well, you may use them on different days. Always introduce new combinations gradually and watch for signs of irritation.
Clarifying Lotion 1 is specifically formulated for very dry to dry skin types. It's the gentlest formula in the Clarifying Lotion range. If you have combination skin, try Clarifying Lotion 2. For combination-oily skin, try Clarifying Lotion 3. For oily skin, try Clarifying Lotion 4. For sensitive skin of any type, consider the alcohol-free Clarifying Lotion 1.0 instead. The numbered system helps you find the perfect match for your skin's needs.
You'll notice immediate results: skin feels cleaner, looks brighter, and has increased radiance right after the first use. Within 1-2 weeks of consistent twice-daily use, you should see improved skin texture, reduced flakiness, and better moisturizer absorption. By 4-8 weeks, many users report visibly smoother, clearer skin with diminished fine dry lines. Long-term users often report that dermatologists think they look 10-15 years younger than their actual age!
Clarifying Lotion is Step 2 in Clinique's 3-Step System. Use it immediately after cleansing (Step 1) and before moisturizing (Step 3). Apply with a cotton ball, sweeping gently over face and neck, avoiding eyes and lips. Do not rinse. Follow immediately with your moisturizer while skin is still slightly damp. Use twice daily, morning and night, for best results. In the morning, finish with sunscreen.
No, Clinique Clarifying Lotion 1 is non-acnegenic and non-comedogenic. It has a comedogenic rating of approximately 1/5, meaning it's very unlikely to clog pores. The oil-free formula actually helps keep pores clear by removing dead skin cells and debris that can contribute to clogging. The salicylic acid helps exfoliate within the pore lining. This makes it suitable for acne-prone dry skin.
Clinique Clarifying Lotion 1 has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. This means you should use it within one year of first opening the bottle. The 400ml size typically lasts 4-6 months with twice-daily use, so you'll easily use it before expiration. Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight to maintain potency. If the color, smell, or texture changes significantly, discontinue use.
Verdict: Clinique Clarifying Lotion 1 remains a gold-standard exfoliating toner for dry skin types, backed by over 55 years of dermatological expertise. The fragrance-free, allergy-tested formula effectively removes dulling flakes and preps skin for moisturizer absorption. While the alcohol content may concern some users, the results speak for themselves - smoother, clearer, more radiant skin that looks visibly younger over time. Best suited for very dry to dry skin types seeking gentle daily exfoliation within a trusted skincare system. For sensitive skin, consider the alcohol-free 1.0 version instead.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skinβs own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging Β«promisesΒ» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Brightening from 3 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Alcohol Denat.
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Hamamelis Virginiana Water
Astringent, Skin Conditioning, Soothing
|
|
|
| 1 |
Trehalose
Humectant, Flavoring Agent, Moisturising
|
Hydrating
|