Rodan + Fields UNBLEMISH Clarifying Toner Review

Rodan + Fields UNBLEMISH Clarifying Toner
4.0
/ 10
Moisturizing
8.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
0.0 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
0.4Anti-wrinkle icon/ 10
Anti-wrinkle
Rich Skin Soothing icon
in Skin Soothers
Ingredients

Rodan + Fields UNBLEMISH Clarifying Toner Ingredients

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Full Ingredient List (INCI):

Water, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water, Ethoxydiglycol, Glycolic Acid, Polysorbate 20, Alcohol, Sodium Hydroxide, Panthenol, Zinc PCA, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Extract, Arginine, Niacinamide, Sodium Hyaluronate, Gluconolactone, Menthyl Lactate, Zinc Phenolsulfonate, Calcium Gluconate, PEG-12 Dimethicone, Fragrance, Lecithin, Disodium EDTA, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenethyl Alcohol, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Benzoate, Benzoic Acid, Chlorphenesin, Sorbic Acid, Citronellol, Geraniol, Limonene, Linalool
Review

Does Rodan + Fields UNBLEMISH Clarifying Toner Work?

 
According to CreamScan's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what Rodan + Fields UNBLEMISH Clarifying Toner has to offer:
 
Moderate moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 4.0 out of 10.
✅ Slight anti-wrinkle effect: Rodan + Fields UNBLEMISH Clarifying Toner has an anti-wrinkle rating of 0.4 out of 10, so you may expect a positive, although insignificant, effect on wrinkles.
✅ Soothing: Rodan + Fields UNBLEMISH Clarifying Toner contains a high concentration of soothing ingredients, which may help to reduce irritation and calm the skin.

  

Key Benefits of Rodan + Fields UNBLEMISH Clarifying Toner

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using Rodan + Fields UNBLEMISH Clarifying Toner:
 

🔵 Lightweight Purely Humectant Moisturizing, Ideal for Oily Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, Rodan + Fields UNBLEMISH Clarifying Toner is quite moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 4.0 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Purely humectant. It has zero occlusivity (we didn't find any occlusive ingredients on the ingredient list) and a very high humectancy of 8.0 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Ethoxydiglycol (est. ≈4.0%).

This humectant-rich product, when used alone as a moisturizer, is ideal for oily skin, providing significant hydration in a lightweight, fast-absorbing formula without any occlusive ingredients.

📌 Certain studies suggest that humectants alone may not effectively moisturize the skin. If you use this product as your only moisturizer, we recommend following it with one that contains at least some occlusive ingredients.

💧 A Humectant Boost for Any Skincare Routine

But it’s not limited to oily skin - such a humectant boost will also positively contribute to the moisturizing efficacy of any skincare routine when used as a step before applying the main moisturizer. This type of formulation is typically used in serums, where a light, fast-absorbing texture is key.

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the moisturizing rating calculation.

🟣 Slight Anti-Wrinkle Efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, Rodan + Fields UNBLEMISH Clarifying Toner has a slight anti-wrinkle rating of 0.4 out of 10.

It contains one ingredient with proven anti-wrinkle efficacy: Niacinamide (est. ≈0.3%),
 one of the most effective and well-researched anti-wrinkle ingredients. A clinical study involving 30 participants (Kawada et al.) confirmed that a cream with 4% niacinamide reduced the average depth of wrinkles around the eyes by 9% after 8 weeks of use, compared to a vehicle (the same formulation without niacinamide).
 
Among others, Rodan + Fields UNBLEMISH Clarifying Toner also contains contains Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract and Gluconolactone, two ingredients often marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles. However, the studies supporting the anti-wrinkle claims of these ingredients provide insufficient evidence of efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards.
 
While this does not categorically rule out the possibility that these ingredients may reduce wrinkles, their efficacy is not supported by convincing, vehicle-controlled, double-blind clinical studies - at least none that were available to the CreamScan team at the time of publication.
 
Therefore, these ingredients do not contribute to the anti-wrinkle rating.
 
📌 Moisturizers, when used regularly, are proven to prevent wrinkle formation and even reduce existing wrinkles. Therefore, this product, like any other moisturizer, can deliver some additional anti-wrinkle effects through its moisturizing action.
 

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the anti-wrinkle rating calculation.

🔴 Skin Soothing and Calming Potential

Based on the ingredient list analysis, Rodan + Fields UNBLEMISH Clarifying Toner is rich (> 5%) in soothing ingredients, particularly Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water (est. ≈6.0%).

When applied to the skin, compounds of soothing ingredients, such as triglycerides, phospholipids, fatty acids, phenolic compounds, and antioxidants, work together to soothe the skin through various mechanisms: reducing inflammation, promoting wound healing, repairing the skin barrier, and providing antimicrobial and antioxidant activities.

📌 Please note that this is not a complete list of benefits. We are in the process of enhancing our model to incorporate anti-pigmentation, exfoliation and anti-acne ratings.

Things to Be Aware Of: Rodan + Fields UNBLEMISH Clarifying Toner

 
CreamScan identified a few things to consider before adding Rodan + Fields UNBLEMISH Clarifying Toner to your skincare routine:
 

⚠️ May Increase Skin Photosensitivity Due to Glycolic Acid

This product contains glycolic acid, a popular AHA known for its ability to exfoliate and brighten the skin. Its action works by removing dead skin cells, revealing new, more delicate skin that is particularly vulnerable to sun damage.

As a result, using products with glycolic acid, regardless of concentration, may increase the skin's sensitivity, making it more prone to sunburn or irritation when exposed to UV rays.

To counteract this increased sun sensitivity, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 daily to protect your skin during glycolic acid treatment.

📌 Please always check the manufacturer's instructions for using the product, either on their website or product label.

⚠️ If It’s Your Only Moisturizer, It Needs to Be Paired with Some Occlusives

While humectants are highly effective at attracting water to the skin, studies (J. N. Kraft, C. W. Lynde) suggest they may not be efficient when used alone.

One major drawback of purely humectant moisturization is that the water attracted by humectants to the upper layers of the skin can evaporate completely into the environment through transepidermal water loss (TEWL). Adding occlusive ingredients helps seal this moisture into the skin and prevent further water loss.

If you’re using Rodan + Fields UNBLEMISH Clarifying Toner as your only moisturizer, consider pairing it with one that contains at least some occlusive ingredients, such as oils, butters, or silicones. These work alongside humectants to create a protective barrier, locking in hydration and ensuring longer-lasting moisturization. The amount of occlusive needed depends on your skin type - the drier the skin, the more occlusives it requires.

If this product is used not as a standalone moisturizer but as part of your skincare routine, such as a toner or serum, it should be applied before your main moisturizer (unless it's a sunscreen), which will provide the necessary occlusivity on top of it.

Pros & Cons of Rodan + Fields UNBLEMISH Clarifying Toner

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of Rodan + Fields UNBLEMISH Clarifying Toner to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

🟩 Pros:

✅ When used alone: Provides humectant-rich moisturizing ideal for oily skin
✅ As part of a routine: A humectant moisturizing boost, beneficial for any skin type
✅ Lightweight texture
Provides slight anti-wrinkle efficacy
✅ Potentially soothing, as it contains a high concentration of soothing ingredients, specifically Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water
 

⭕ Cons: 

⚠️ May increase skin photosensitivity due to glycolic acid
⚠️ Only if used as a standalone moisturizer - it needs to be paired with occlusives to seal in humectants
   

Summary: Rodan + Fields UNBLEMISH Clarifying Toner

 
Based on the ingredient list analysis, CreamScan AI suggests that Rodan + Fields UNBLEMISH Clarifying Toner
, when used alone, delivers lightweight, humectant-rich moisturizing, making it ideal for oily skin. As part of a moisturizing routine, it provides a humectant boost, beneficial for all skin types.
 
Rodan + Fields UNBLEMISH Clarifying Toner contains ingredients with proven evidence of anti-wrinkle efficacy that may offer a slight anti-wrinkle effect. As a result, you can expect a positive, though relatively minimal, impact on wrinkles.
 
 
With a high concentration of soothing ingredients, Rodan + Fields UNBLEMISH Clarifying Toner has the potential to calm and comfort irritated skin. Whether you’re experiencing redness, irritation, or general sensitivity, its soothing properties may help restore balance and provide relief.
 
That said, there are some things about Rodan + Fields UNBLEMISH Clarifying Toner worth noting.
 
Looking at its moisturizing profile, we found that it doesn’t contain any occlusive ingredients, potentially allowing the moisture attracted to the skin by humectants to evaporate. Therefore, if it’s used as the only moisturizer in a routine, it’s recommended to pair it with one that contains at least some occlusive ingredients, such as oils, butters, or silicones.
 
This product contains glycolic acid, a popular AHA known for its ability to exfoliate and brighten the skin. However, glycolic acid - regardless of concentration - can increase skin sensitivity, making it more prone to sunburn or irritation when exposed to UV rays. Therefore, it’s recommended to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 during glycolic acid treatment.
 
📌 Fact check. At CreamScan, we are committed to accuracy and fairness. If you spot any errors or something that doesn’t seem right, please click here to let us know. We regularly update the ingredient lists and monitor the latest research on ingredient efficacy to ensure that our information remains as complete and precise as possible. The information provided here is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional advice. We do not guarantee the efficacy or safety of any product, as individual results may vary.

 

Ingredient Breakdown

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
75
6
4
3
2
1.5
1.3
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water
Function:
Origin:
Ethoxydiglycol
Function:
Origin:
Glycolic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Polysorbate 20
Function:
Origin:
Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hydroxide
Function:
Origin:
Panthenol
Function:
Origin:
Zinc PCA
Function:
Origin:
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
Function:
Origin:
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Extract
Function:
Origin:
Arginine
Function:
Origin:
Niacinamide
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hyaluronate
Function:
Origin:
Gluconolactone
Function:
Origin:
Menthyl Lactate
Function:
Origin:
Zinc Phenolsulfonate
Function:
Origin:
Calcium Gluconate
Function:
Origin:
PEG-12 Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Fragrance
Function:
Origin:
Lecithin
Function:
Origin:
Disodium EDTA
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexylglycerin
Function:
Origin:
Phenethyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Benzoate
Function:
Origin:
Benzoic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Chlorphenesin
Function:
Origin:
Sorbic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Citronellol
Function:
Origin:
Geraniol
Function:
Origin:
Limonene
Function:
Origin:
Linalool
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
8.0
4
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
0.0
None
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
4.0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 8.0 10
8.0
4
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 0.0 20
0.0
None
Moisturizing rating
4.0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
4
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 8.0 10
8
All humectants
8.0
4
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
None
All occlusives 0.0 20
0.0
All occlusives
0.0
None
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
6 /10 4 0.3 0.4
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
0.4
Niacinamide
0.4
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
6 /10
when present at, %
4
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Gluconolactone
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Anti-wrinkle rating
0.4
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 1.5 3 No
All antioxidants
1.5
Niacinamide
0.3
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
0.3
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
0.3
Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Extract
0.3
Sodium Hyaluronate
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
6
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 7.9 5 Rich in soothing
All soothing
7.9
6
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Water
Est. %75
Function
Origin
WaterThe most used ingredient in skincare. Its concentration defines the product texture: rich creams may have about 50% of water while a light jelly about 90%. Water doesn’t moisturize the skin by itself and is used in skincare as a solvent for other ingredients.
Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water
Est. %6
Function
Origin
Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) WaterA fragrant, astringent essential water obtained by steeping and distilling the twigs and leaves of the witch hazel plant. It leaves the skin feeling tight and refreshed after application and helps with the healing of small cuts on the skin.
Ethoxydiglycol
Est. %4
Function
Origin
EthoxydiglycolA type of alcohol with humectant moisturizing properties. It also acts as a solvent, since it mixes well with a variety of other compounds, including water and even some oils.
Glycolic Acid
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Glycolic Acid

The second most used AHA (after lactic acid) known for its potent exfoliating and smoothing effects. It increases skin cell turnover, which is beneficial for treating acne. When used in peels, glycolic acid has confirmed anti-wrinkle efficacy.

Polysorbate 20
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Polysorbate 20A viscous, amber-colored liquid that functions as a solubilizer to disperse small amounts of oil into a large water phase. Polysorbate 20 is frequently used to solubilize fragrance oils into water-based emulsions.
Alcohol
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
AlcoholAn effective antimicrobial ingredient that kills bacteria, fungi, and even some viruses. It is also an excellent solvent and astringent. Alcohol helps to create lighter and less viscous products. It can, however, be dehydrating and skin-sensitizing.
Sodium Hydroxide
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Hydroxide

An ingredient that is able to bring the pH of a product up, thereby making it less harsh on the skin.

Panthenol
Est. %1
Function
Origin
PanthenolA popular soothing and moisturizing derivative of vitamin B5. Panthenol is particularly beneficial for dry, flaking, burned, or damaged skin. It is used to alleviate the symptoms of a rash, dermatitis, eczema, chapped lips, and sunburn.
Zinc PCA
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Zinc PCAA two-part ingredient: Zinc helps to control sebum and bacteria in acne-prone skin, while skin-identical PCA is a moisturizing humectant. Zinc PCA may even boost collagen production and so is researched as a potential anti-wrinkle ingredient.
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf JuiceA gelatinous juice from Aloe vera leaves that acts as a powerful humectant, emollient, and antioxidant. It contains enzymes, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals that soothe irritated skin and have wound-healing and anti-inflammatory properties.
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract

An antioxidant green tea extract. In the deeper layers, it slows down the destruction of collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid – thus delaying the signs of aging. It also acts as an anti-acne, soothing, moisturizing, and emollient ingredient.

Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) ExtractAn extract derived from rosemary leaves. It contains a fragrant essential oil and is a strong antioxidant with astringent tannins.
Arginine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
ArginineA humectant amino acid used to attract water to the skin’s surface. It is a part of the skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor, a mixture of various compounds that keeps the skin’s surface well hydrated. Arginine can also be used as a pH adjuster.
Niacinamide
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Niacinamide

Also known as vitamin B3, this ingredient is a true superstar with confirmed moisturizing, anti-acne, hyperpigmentation, and antioxidant benefits. Two studies confirm its significant anti-wrinkle efficacy.

Sodium Hyaluronate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Hyaluronate

A sodium salt of famous hyaluronic acid. A potent humectant that hydrates the skin, supports collagen function, and fills out small wrinkles. Sodium hyaluronate also offers soothing and antioxidant properties.

Gluconolactone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
GluconolactoneA PHA derived from glucose. It has exfoliating and humectant properties and acts as a penetration enhancer for other ingredients. It has also been shown to assist in the treatment of acne and the prevention of photoaging.
Menthyl Lactate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Menthyl LactateA derivative of menthol that has the same fresh, cooling effect on the skin, but that is less sensitizing and doesn’t have the strong mint scent of menthol.
Zinc Phenolsulfonate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Zinc Phenolsulfonate
Calcium Gluconate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Calcium GluconateA white crystalline powder that can act as a humectant when dissolved into water. It is also a chelating agent.
PEG-12 Dimethicone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PEG-12 DimethiconeA synthetic silicone that improves lubricity and absorption.
Fragrance
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
FragranceUnder trade secret law, manufacturers have the right not to disclose what exactly went into the fragrance and use the unspecific word Fragrance or Parfum instead. Many fragrances are highly allergenic.
Lecithin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
LecithinA humectant, emollient, and emulsifier best suited for water-in-oil emulsions. Lecithin can come from sunflowers, soy, and eggs. The downside to lecithin is that it causes an extra burden on the formula’s preservative because it is nutritious.
Disodium EDTA
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Disodium EDTAA synthetic chelator that helps to maintain the look and smell of a product by 'locking up' troublesome metal ions.
Ethylhexylglycerin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
EthylhexylglycerinA preservative booster derived from glycerin. It is commonly paired with other preservatives to improve their efficacy. Ethylhexylglycerin is also a humectant due to its chemical base of glycerin.
Phenethyl Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Phenethyl AlcoholA multifunctional ingredient that primarily serves as a preservative. Derived from the Chinese cinnamon tree, it provides broad-spectrum protection for skincare products through its antimicrobial efficacy.
Phenoxyethanol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PhenoxyethanolThe most frequently used preservative in skincare. It is a clear, oil-like liquid synthetic substance that protects products from harmful bacteria and yeast, whilst still leaving skin microflora unharmed. It is confirmed by research to be harmless.
Sodium Benzoate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium BenzoateA preservative that usually works in combination with other preservatives. It has to be at low pH (<5.5) to be effective.
Benzoic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Benzoic AcidA preservative effective against fungi, yeast, and some bacteria. It is commonly paired with phenoxyethanol to create a broad spectrum preservation system. Benzoic acid can also serve as a pH adjuster, fragrance, and bulking agent.
Chlorphenesin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
ChlorphenesinA preservative and broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent that protects products from a wide range of bacteria and fungi.
Sorbic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sorbic AcidAn organic acid that can be naturally found in the berries of the Mountain ash, although it is manufactured synthetically for skincare purposes. It is used as a preservative and antimicrobial agent, protecting a skincare product from spoiling.
Citronellol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citronellol

A fragrant compound found naturally in many essential oils (mainly lemongrass). It can have a lemon or a rose scent. People with sensitive skin should try to avoid products with citronellol, or at least do a patch test before using it.

Geraniol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Geraniol

A fragrant, volatile, plant-based, liquid chemical that can be naturally found in many essential oils (specifically rose, palmarosa, citronella). It has a rose-like scent. It is a potential irritant and may cause an allergic reaction in some people.

Limonene
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Limonene

One of the most used fragrances in skincare products. It is produced from the peels of citrus fruits and has a fresh, pleasant, citrusy smell. People who are sensitive to citrus should try to avoid it, or at least do a patch test before using it.

Linalool
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
LinaloolA fragrant, volatile compound naturally present in many essential oils. It has a pleasant scent and is often used in skincare products as a fragrance. People with sensitive skin should try to avoid it, or at least do a patch test before using it.