I got samples of the three step system and I wasn't thrilled about the yellow soap or the "dramatically different moisturizer", but I loved the toner. I always felt refreshed and clean after I used it.
I just purchased the toner on its own and I use it after a mild cleanser (cetaphil) twice a day followed by an SPF neutrogena moisturizer and retin-A at night.
This regime seems to be the trick and I credit the clinique toner for the difference because my skin used to get incredibly flakey from the retin-A, and now it's smooth and blemish-free.