[Kathy]

I use Clinique Clarifying Lotion 3 every night. It takes off extra gunk every time, even right after washing my face. I wouldn't be without a toner. I might have to downgrade to CCL 2 because 3 is a little drying, but no way I would go without one altogether.

Are toners essential?. ...

No, but they do help, especially if you have oily skin. Products are available for dry, normal or oily skin. Toners offer several benefits by removing any excess oil and residue left on the skin after washing, they restore the pH level of your skin and they prepare a clean surface to receive a moisturizer. Some toners are formulated with anti-acne agents, antioxidants, lipids and other key ingredients. Caution: astringents or toners can irritate sensitive skin, especially if they have an alcohol base

Source

[nicdalish]

I use that clinique toner as well. I've also been told that it's not good for my skin. But I don't seem to have the drying problem. I also remove more dirt off my face after washing. Are there any other tips or anything else we should be using? Does the clinque toner work as an exfoliator as well?

[Kathy]

Who told you it wasn't good for your skin? Did they say why? I know the level 3 works as an exfoliator because it has salicylic acid in it. Levels 1 and 2 don't. There are all kinds of toners out there though. Even moisturizing ones. Some people use Apple Cider Vinegar - there's an entire sticky thread about it. Some people use straight Witch Hazel. It really depends on what your skin type is.

[nicdalish]

It was actually just a friend, but I think it's because people think it's drying. I have oily skin & I always use a good moisturizing lotion afterwards, so I don't have any problems. I used to break out alot & I have little red marks all over my face. I'm hoping over time these will go away. I like to think the toner helps! HA!

[Paramour_Sheek]

I've never used a toner, but now I'm starting to think it might be a good idea... I love most of Cliniques line of skincare products, so is their toner highly recommended?

[lummerz]

i've used witch hazel but only in the mornings..it's refreshing and really wakes you up but yea it can be a bit drying. Never used ACV...that sounds interesting. Personally, I stay away from department store toners because in my opinion, i think they are a waste of money. That's just me.

[Britt Fabulous]

I used Cliniques toner 2 and all it did was turn my face BRIGHT red for about 30 minutes after I had applied it. What was odd is that it wouldn't burn or sting... just turn my face flaming red.

I've used other toners here and there, but none of them have made me believe I need to shell out the money for them, it's always sort of like "Eh, this isn't doing a whole lot and it just adds an extra step, I'm lazy, and poor. Forget it".

[Jobunny]

I use a Dove one that goes for about $NZD 8.50 for 200ml - I don't know if it's necessary or not but it makes my skin feel nice! It's a moisturising one, and I use it in the morning. At night I use water with aspirin dissolves in it (for the salicylic acid) - I have no idea if it does anything but again it makes my skin feel good. I also like to make sure I have removed as much of my makeup/sunscreen etc as I possibly can.

I think lots of beauty 'experts' say it isn't necessary, and I wonder if just using water on a cotton pad would be the same? As I guess its the physical wiping which removes leftover dirt etc? But then water doesn't dissolve leftover mascara residue like my Dove toner does. I think I've just confused myself haha!

Anyway the 200ml Dove toner lasts me forever, at least 2-3 months, so $8 or so isn't really a big deal.

[magosienne]

i mostly use a thermal water spray or a floral water as a toner. i agree they definitely help.
Jobunny : well, hamamelis water takes off the e/s and eyeliner leftovers i didn't get with my makeup remover. lol but it is actually used as a makeup remover so that's probably why.

[Jesskaa]

yuck. I hate toners, i hate how they feel when applying them. It's gross.

[magosienne]

lol, i suggest you try a floral water like lavender Jess, it does help with oily skin.

[Retro-Violet]

i go between the clarifying lotion 2 and the one made for acne that they came out with.
i love them, i couldnt live without it.

although i remember i got the #3 lotion and it was way too drying for my face.

[girly_girl]

I'm thinking of getting the 3 step skin care. I have a oily nose, but tend to be normal to dry elsewhere. What toner would you all suggest? I took their quiz and it said I have type 2 skin. I did try a sample of the 3 step. but it doesn't have any numbers on the package. I really liked the way it made my face feel. I don't have to get the moisturizer because I got it with Free gift. Do you all think it's worth it? Can you help me out with what number I need? Thanks in advance.

[AngelaGM]

I use Burt's Bees Tomato Toner. That is my favorite toner! =)

[Kathy]

If you go to the counter, they will help you chose which level you should use. Or...I'm pretty sure Clinique's website has a quiz and that'll tell you also.

[CellyCell]

I used wet n wild toner for almost a year and loved it... it cleaned everything off, remove blemishes over time and didn't leave my skin dry at all. I just hated the bottle cus it would leak every so often.

I've been wanting to try clinique for awhile... ill try that.

[Solimar]

I love my toners. I still believe Witch Hazel was the best, though. I may have to try Wet n Wild, if they still make it...