In all my years as a beauty editor, I’ve had the opportunity to swatch, study and analyze formulas that enter the market with something new, something better—with only a few brands that actually convince me to commit to. Clinique has always been one of them. With an influx of products plastered all over shopping websites and brand ads, this american cosmetic giant successfully brought dermatological thinking to skincare that has always delivered what it promises. That said, I decided to restock on some of the brand’s best performing products that play a huge role in my daily skincare routine. These formulas help achieve a healthy glow and also take care of primary concerns like my blemishes, dark spots and stubborn acne marks. Details ahead.
All About Clean™ Liquid Facial Soap
Truth be told, I take cleansing very seriously. It’s hardly the most glamorous step in anyone’s beauty lineup, but in many ways, it's the most important. This liquid facial soap makes it easier to commit to this process and I’ll tell you why. It’s a non-drying, clear liquid, fortified with sucrose (known to calm and soothe skin) that removes all the dirt and makeup that may have decided to lounge on my skin for hours. My skin just generally feels extra clean, hydrated and relaxed once I'm done rinsing. Oh, and it’s fragrance-free but smells slightly medicinal which I personally prefer to a strong fruity or floral scent any day.
Anti-Blemish Solutions™ Clarifying Lotion
I have a tendency of breaking out randomly during the day due to stress, not taking my makeup off before bed (see why cleansing is crucial?), and just generally using masks for my grocery runs. Thankfully the anti-blemish lotion helps keep my acne and active blemishes in check. Packed with acne-fighting power ingredients like salicylic acid, I pour this oil-controlling elixir on a cotton ball and sweep it all over my face right before I start my day and I top this up with a thin layer of the Anti-Blemish Solutions™ Clinical Clearing Gel that helps clear all the existing blemishes on my skin. Plus, this combination does not irritate my skin even for a second, which I love.
Even Better Clinical™ Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter
I always make sure that I include a spot corrector in my regime. This product is a very powerful brightening serum that visibly corrects all the discoloration, including the mini acne scars on my cheeks. I like how the brand prioritized convenience as key, because this product is very easy to use (and looks good in my cabinet as well). Famously referred to as the ‘damage eraser’, this serum helps weaken the bonds that hold dead skin cells together that work hard on surface discoloration. I started witnessing the results within 7 to 8 weeks of religiously using it every morning.
Moisture Surge™ 100H Auto-Replenishing Hydrator
Okay, this one’s a cult classic but I’m still going to tell you a little about this gem if you haven’t tried it already. I have aggressively dry skin and there’s not a day that goes by where I don’t thank the Moisture Surge 100h Auto-Replenishing Hydrator for transforming my skin and how healthy it feels every time I use it (yes, I speak to my tub). Activated with aloe water and caffeine, this advanced gel-based formula is souped with auto-replenishing technology that helps the skin create an internal water bank to continuously hydrate itself throughout the day. Basically an absolute dream for anyone who suffers from dehydrated skin.
SPF50 Mineral Sunscreen Fluid For Face
In a recent study, industry experts have strictly thrown light on sunscreens and how it’s practically non-negotiable to add to your routine (even if you’re not under the sun). So, I took it upon myself to add a good sunscreen to my morning regime before I start my day. My skin is very sensitive so I use this mineral sunscreen by Clinique. With an SPF of 50, this formula not only provides a broad spectrum protection from the harmful UV rays, but it also prevents my skin from getting further damaged from the lights and mild sunlight that enter my house while I'm busy working on my laptop all day. Plus, look at that packaging will you? Fantastic.
