It seems a bit ridiculous having something as iconic as the Clarins Gentle Exfoliating Lotion (Gentle Exfoliator Brightening Toner) as a quick pick, since it’s such a fantastic product that deserves lots of space for raving, but I’m currently putting together a feature on exfoliating toners in general, so it’ll get it’s time then. It is very safe to say that everything you read about this product is true.
Firstly, I’ll say that if you’re someone who finds the idea of acid toners a little bit scary then this is a fantastic one to start with, as it’s so gentle, calming and hydrating, yet it’s surprisingly effective at exfoliating skin. According to the website it’s suitable for all skin types (although no mention of sensitive, so ease yourself in if you have sensitive skin) which I’d say is accurate since it’s so gentle. You use it as you would a typical toner – decant some on to some cotton wool and work around the face, leave it to dry then carry on with your skincare routine. It’s designed as more of a treatment product as opposed to a daily toner, so the recommended use it a couple of times a week. If you find yourself hooked on the way it works then I can’t personally foresee any issues with using it a bit more regularly, but I haven’t tested that theory myself so don’t quote me! As with all skincare, tread carefully, start slowly and build yourself up. This treatment toner leaves skin feeling very smooth without any tightness, with the added benefits of calming and hydrating – it’s a total winner for me! It’s £25 here – link.
*PR Sample
It’s definitely only a twice a week product in my opinion, I tried more frequently with disastrous results…but I appreciate everyone is different. Even after I gave my skin time to recover and then followed the twice weekly instruction it was too much for me.
In my experience, little and often is a more effective approach to exfoliating so when I realised how strong it was I passed the mountain of samples I had on to someone else (Clarins are great for samples I find, the lady must’ve given me half a bottles worth!).
I love the REN toner as a starting point for people who are making their first forays into acid toning.
That’s good to know, thanks so much Kate! I definitely won’t up the amount I use it xx