Purifying Toning Lotion
Purifying Toning Lotion
Product Description
Product overview
A refreshing, plant-based, alcohol-free toning lotion formulated with Witch Hazel and Organic Meadowsweet to purify, hydrate, and mattify combination to oily skin. Features Clarins' exclusive Microbiote Complex with Saffron Flower polyphenols and marine-based prebiome to balance the skin's natural microbiota for a shine-free, refined complexion.
Microbiote Complex
Exclusive Clarins blend of marine-based prebiome and Organic Saffron Flower polyphenols to balance the skin's natural microbiota for a healthy, clear complexion.
Texture & feel
SENSORYMicrobiote Complex
Exclusive Clarins blend of marine-based prebiome and Organic Saffron Flower polyphenols to balance the skin's natural microbiota for a healthy, clear complexion.
Purifying Plant Extracts
Witch Hazel and Organic Meadowsweet work synergistically to tighten pores, reduce shine, and remove every last trace of cleanser residue.
Oil-Control Hydration
Glycerin and Saccharide Isomerate deliver long-lasting hydration without adding oil or shine, keeping combination to oily skin balanced throughout the day.
Gentle & Alcohol-Free
No alcohol, no colorants, and dermatologist-tested. Provides effective mattifying results without stripping or irritating the skin barrier.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Clarins specifically recommends their Toning Lotions for use during pregnancy. Always consult your doctor.
Contains PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, a polysorbate-type emulsifier that can feed Malassezia yeast. Avoid if you are prone to fungal acne or pityrosporum folliculitis.
No heavy oils or known pore-clogging ingredients. The lightweight, water-based formula is unlikely to cause breakouts for most skin types.
Includes synthetic fragrance with fruity-floral notes. While pleasant for most users, those with fragrance sensitivities or very reactive skin should patch test first.
Safe to use with retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs. This toner contains no exfoliating acids, so it won't cause over-exfoliation when layered.
Contains Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) leaf extract as an astringent. While alcohol-free, some very sensitive skin types may find witch hazel mildly drying over time.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSWitch Hazel (Hamamelis Virginiana)Proven
A time-tested botanical astringent that helps tighten pores, reduce excess sebum production, and soothe minor skin irritation. Witch Hazel has been used in skincare for centuries as a natural purifying agent.
- Function: Astringent, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties help mattify skin and reduce visible pore size.
- Research: Studies confirm tannins in Witch Hazel provide anti-inflammatory effects and help reduce excess oil without stripping the skin barrier.
- Synergy: Works with Meadowsweet to enhance the purifying and pore-refining benefits of the formula.
Organic Meadowsweet (Spiraea Ulmaria)Proven
An organic botanical extract known for its natural salicylate content that provides gentle purifying and oil-balancing properties without the harshness of synthetic salicylic acid.
- Function: Natural purifier that helps reduce shine, refine skin texture, and brighten the complexion.
- Source: Organic certified in accordance with European regulation (CE 2018/848).
- Benefit: Contains natural anti-inflammatory flavonoids that help calm redness associated with oily, congested skin.
Saffron Flower (Crocus Sativus)Promising
A precious botanical used in Clarins' exclusive Microbiote Complex. Organic Saffron Flower polyphenols help balance the skin's natural microbiota for a healthier, more resilient complexion.
- Function: Rich in polyphenols that support microbiome balance, protecting the skin's natural bacterial ecosystem.
- Research: Saffron extracts show antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in dermatological research.
- Innovation: Part of Clarins' proprietary Microbiote Complex, developed after extensive laboratory research.
Laminaria Digitata (Kelp) + Chlorella VulgarisPromising
Marine-based prebiome ingredients that complement the Saffron Flower in the Microbiote Complex. These algae-derived extracts nourish beneficial skin bacteria while supporting overall skin health.
- Laminaria Digitata: A brown seaweed rich in minerals and polysaccharides that acts as a prebiotic to feed beneficial skin bacteria.
- Chlorella Vulgaris: A green microalgae packed with amino acids, vitamins, and growth factors that support skin repair and detoxification.
- Together: These marine ingredients provide the prebiome foundation of the Microbiote Complex for balanced, healthy-looking skin.
Glycerin + Saccharide Isomerate Humectant BaseProven
A hydration duo that delivers both instant and long-lasting moisture. Glycerin is a skin-identical humectant with a comedogenicity rating of 0, while Saccharide Isomerate provides up to 72 hours of hydration by binding to the skin.
- Glycerin: Comedogenicity 0, Irritancy 0. Effective from as low as 3% concentration. Attracts moisture from the air and binds it into the skin.
- Saccharide Isomerate: Plant-derived sugar complex that forms hydrogen bonds with keratin for long-lasting hydration that resists washing off.
- Synergy: Together they provide hydration without adding oil or shine, ideal for combination to oily skin types.
21 ingredients
Aqua/Water/Eau, Propanediol, Glycerin, Methylpropanediol, Butylene Glycol, PPG-26-Buteth-26, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Ethylhexylglycerin, Maris Aqua/Sea Water/Eau De Mer, Caprylyl Glycol, Parfum/Fragrance, Disodium EDTA, Potassium Sorbate, Phenylpropanol, Phenethyl Alcohol, Spiraea Ulmaria Extract, Laminaria Digitata Extract, Chlorella Vulgaris Extract, Hamamelis Virginiana Leaf Extract, Saccharide Isomerate, Crocus Sativus Flower Extract.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse morning and evening after cleansing. This toner removes final traces of cleanser and preps skin for better absorption of serums and moisturizers. Pairs well with the Clarins Purifying Gentle Foaming Cleanser.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Face
Start with clean skin. Use your preferred cleanser (Clarins recommends their Purifying Gentle Foaming Cleanser for oily/combination skin) and rinse thoroughly.
Soak Two Cotton Pads
Saturate two cotton pads with the Purifying Toning Lotion. The liquid texture distributes evenly across the pad for full coverage.
Sweep Across Face
Gently wipe the soaked cotton pads over the entire face, avoiding the eye contour area. Use upward, outward motions for the best results.
Let It Absorb Naturally
Allow the toner to air dry on the skin. No rinsing required. Follow with your serum, treatment oil, or moisturizer while skin is still slightly damp for optimal absorption.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have combination to oily skin that gets shiny by midday
- You want an alcohol-free toner that mattifies without stripping
- You prefer plant-based, naturally-derived skincare formulas
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe toning step
- You want to support your skin's microbiome health
- You appreciate French pharmacy skincare heritage
Consider alternatives if:
- You are prone to fungal acne (contains PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil)
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin that needs rich hydration
- You are extremely sensitive to any fragrance (contains Parfum)
- You want a toner with active exfoliating acids (AHA/BHA)
- You prefer completely fragrance-free products
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESSpecifically formulated for oily skin. Witch Hazel and Meadowsweet help control sebum and reduce shine without over-drying. Visibly less oily skin after 14 days of use.
Ideal for balancing the T-zone while keeping drier cheeks hydrated. Glycerin and Saccharide Isomerate provide moisture where needed without adding shine.
Works well as a daily toner for normal skin, though you may not notice as dramatic a difference. Consider the Hydrating Toning Lotion if you don't have excess oil concerns.
The astringent properties of Witch Hazel may feel slightly drying. Clarins' Hydrating Toning Lotion (with Aloe Vera) or Soothing Toning Lotion is a better choice for dry skin.
Alcohol-free, which is positive, but contains fragrance and Witch Hazel. Patch test recommended. Consider Clarins Soothing Toning Lotion for very reactive skin.
Low comedogenic rating (1/5) and pore-refining botanical extracts make this a solid option for acne-prone skin. However, not suitable for fungal acne specifically.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Immediate Freshness & Cleansing
Skin feels refreshed, clean, and balanced right after the first use. Cotton pads pick up residual impurities your cleanser missed. Noticeable matte finish throughout the day.
90% noticed immediate freshnessReduced Shine & Refined Pores
With consistent twice-daily use, the T-zone becomes visibly less oily. Pores appear tighter and skin texture starts to smooth out. The Microbiote Complex begins rebalancing the skin flora.
85% reported less oily skin after 14 daysBalanced Microbiota & Clearer Complexion
Skin microbiome becomes more balanced, reducing the frequency of minor blemishes. Complexion appears brighter, more even, and healthily refined. Skin feels hydrated yet matte.
78% noticed a clearer complexionLong-Term Oil Balance & Skin Health
Continued use maintains the skin's microbiota equilibrium. Sebum production is better regulated long-term. Skin is softer, more refined, and consistently balanced without tightness or dehydration.
72% reported sustained oil controlRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Alcohol-free formula that mattifies without stripping or drying the skin
- Removes final traces of cleanser and makeup residue effectively
- Innovative Microbiote Complex supports healthy skin microbiome
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe with no harsh chemicals
- Elegant fruity-floral scent that feels luxurious and refreshing
- Eco-conscious refillable packaging reduces plastic waste
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing texture with no stickiness or residue
- A little goes a long way; 200ml bottle lasts 2-3 months
Criticized
- Contains fragrance (Parfum) which may irritate very sensitive skin
- Not fungal acne safe due to PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil
- Active botanical extracts are listed low in INCI, suggesting trace concentrations
- Premium pricing ($32 for 200ml) compared to drugstore alternatives
- No exfoliating acids (AHA/BHA) for those wanting active pore treatment
- Some users find the Witch Hazel slightly drying with prolonged daily use
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESAlso alcohol-free and witch hazel-based, with added Aloe Vera for soothing. Lacks the Microbiote Complex and marine extracts, but delivers similar mattifying and pore-tightening results at a fraction of the price.
Features Niacinamide for pore minimizing and oil control instead of botanical astringents. Fragrance-free and better for sensitive skin, but a different approach (active ingredients vs. plant-based purifying).
A classic oil-control toner that uses gentle exfoliation to balance combination skin. Contains alcohol denat. unlike the Clarins, which may be drying. More exfoliating but less soothing.
Contains Salicylic Acid and Glycolic Acid for active pore-clearing. Much more treatment-oriented than the Clarins. Contains alcohol denat. and is NOT pregnancy safe. Better for active acne, but harsher.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep the cap tightly closed between uses. Can be kept in a mini fridge for an extra refreshing application.
Sleek green plastic bottle with screw cap. Available in refillable format (13.5 oz refill) to reduce plastic waste. No outer cardboard packaging.
The 200ml (6.7 oz) bottle exceeds the 100ml carry-on limit. Decant into a smaller container for air travel, or purchase the travel-size option if available.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. This toner contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens — the ingredients most commonly flagged during pregnancy. The formula is plant-based, alcohol-free, and dermatologist-tested. Clarins UK specifically recommends their Toning Lotions as part of a pregnancy-safe skincare routine. As always, consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your skincare regimen during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
No. This toner contains PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, a polysorbate-type emulsifier that can serve as a food source for Malassezia yeast. If you are prone to fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis), this product is not recommended. Consider alternatives like Thayers Witch Hazel Toner (check the specific formula) or look for toners verified as fungal-acne-safe on resources like Simple Skincare Science.
Yes. This toner contains no exfoliating acids or active ingredients that would conflict with retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, or BHAs. It serves as a gentle, hydrating prep step that removes cleanser residue and balances the skin before applying actives. Apply the toner first, let it absorb, then layer your active serums or treatments on top.
This toner is specifically formulated for combination to oily skin types. It excels at controlling excess sebum, tightening pores, and providing a matte finish without dehydration. If you have normal skin, it works well too. However, if you have dry or very sensitive skin, Clarins offers the Hydrating Toning Lotion (for normal/dry) or the Soothing Toning Lotion (for very dry/sensitive) as better-suited alternatives.
You can expect immediate freshness and a matte finish from the first use. According to Clarins' clinical testing, users reported visibly less oily skin after 14 days of consistent use (morning and evening). Pore-refining and microbiome-balancing benefits typically become noticeable within 2-4 weeks of regular application.
Apply immediately after cleansing, before serums, treatments, and moisturizer. The toner is the second step in your routine: (1) Cleanser, (2) Toning Lotion, (3) Serum, (4) Eye Cream, (5) Moisturizer, (6) Sunscreen (AM). Soak two cotton pads and gently wipe across the face. Let it air dry — no rinsing needed. Use morning and evening for best results.
This toner has a low comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. The formula is water-based with no heavy oils, waxes, or known pore-clogging ingredients. Glycerin, the main humectant, has a comedogenicity rating of 0. The lightweight liquid texture is designed to be quickly absorbed without leaving residue. It is generally safe for acne-prone skin, though it is not fungal acne safe due to PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal freshness and efficacy. The 200ml bottle typically lasts 2-3 months with twice-daily use (soaking two cotton pads per application). Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and keep the cap tightly sealed between uses.
Verdict: The Clarins Purifying Toning Lotion is a well-crafted, gentle toner for combination to oily skin that prioritizes botanical ingredients and microbiome health over harsh actives. Its alcohol-free, pregnancy-safe formula with Witch Hazel and Meadowsweet delivers effective mattifying and pore-refining benefits without stripping the skin. The innovative Microbiote Complex sets it apart from competitors. However, the premium price point, presence of fragrance, and trace-level botanical concentrations may give budget-conscious or fragrance-sensitive shoppers pause. If you value French pharmacy heritage, plant-based formulas, and a luxurious sensory experience in your toning step, this is an excellent choice. For those who want active exfoliation or a lower price tag, alternatives like Paula's Choice or Thayers may be more suitable.
Product Overview
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.
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
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 «promises» 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.
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
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.
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
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.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Methylpropanediol
Solvent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|







