Clinique Clarifying Lotion 3 Travel Mini 2 fl oz — Gentle Exfoliant for Oily Combination Skin

Clinique Clarifying Lotion 3 is a gentle, daily exfoliating lotion formulated for oily to combination skin to remove surface buildup and help skin look clearer and more radiant.

Designed as Step 2 in Clinique’s three-step routine, this travel-size 2 fl oz Clarifying Lotion uses dermatologist-developed actives to lift away dirt, pollution, dead skin cells, and excess oil that cleansing can miss. It’s a lightweight liquid exfoliant intended for twice-daily use after cleansing and before moisturizing. The formula is part of a five-way system matched to different skin types, and Clarifying Lotion 3 is tailored for oily to combination complexions that need focused, gentle exfoliation.

How does Clarifying Lotion 3 fit into my morning and evening routine?

Use it immediately after cleansing: soak a cotton pad and sweep across the face, avoiding the eye area. It prepares skin for the next step by clearing away debris so moisturizers and serums absorb more evenly.

• Step 1: Cleanse with your chosen Clinique face wash.
• Step 2: Apply Clarifying Lotion 3 with a cotton pad, gently across face and neck.
• Step 3: Follow with a serum or moisturizer to lock in hydration.

What ingredients are in this formula and what do they do?

The lotion contains skin-type–specific actives such as witch hazel, BHA (salicylic acid), and exfoliating humectants that help remove surface flakes and address excess oil. The blend is 100% fragrance-free and allergy-tested to reduce irritation risk for many users.

• Salicylic acid (BHA): helps clear pore surface buildup for oilier areas.
• Witch hazel: a gentle astringent to help lift impurities.
• Hydrating support ingredients: assist skin comfort after exfoliation.

How often should I use this exfoliating lotion and can it cause dryness?

Clinique recommends using the Clarifying Lotion twice daily—morning and night—for best results, though frequency can be adjusted depending on your skin’s tolerance. If you notice increased dryness, reduce use to once daily or every other day and pair with a suitable moisturizer to restore balance.

• Start with once daily if you have sensitivity, then increase as tolerated.
• Combine with a non-comedogenic moisturizer to reduce potential dryness.
• Patch-test on a small area if you’re introducing salicylic acid for the first time.

Will this product work with other treatments I use for breakouts or oil control?

Clarifying Lotion 3 is formulated to complement topical treatments by clearing surface buildup so actives absorb more efficiently. Avoid layering multiple strong exfoliants at once; consult product directions or a skin professional if using prescription treatments.

• Compatible with most over-the-counter serums and moisturizers after application.
• Avoid combining with other BHA/AHA products in the same application to limit irritation.
• Works as a preparatory step to increase product absorption and efficacy.

Who is this for? Clinique Clarifying Lotion 3 is intended for people with oily, combination, or breakout-prone skin who want a reliable, dermatologist-developed exfoliating step that fits into a simple daily routine. It’s ideal if you’re looking to reduce surface dullness and excess oil without introducing fragrance, and the 2 fl oz travel size is convenient for testing the formula or taking on trips. If you have very dry or highly sensitive skin, consider choosing a Clarifying Lotion matched to your specific skin type or consult a skincare professional before regular use.

Ingredients

Water\Aqua\Eau, Alcohol Denat., Salicylic Acid, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel), Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Trehalose, Sodium Hyaluronate, Citric Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Disodium Edta, Bht, Phenoxyethanol, Benzophenone-4, Ext. Violet 2 (Ci 60730), Red 6 (Ci 15850), Orange 4 (Ci 15510) 37038 Please be aware that ingredient lists may change or vary from time to time. Please refer to the ingredient list on the product package you receive for the most up to date list of ingredients.