Finding the right facial moisturizer can make a significant difference in your daily skincare routine. A good moisturizer helps keep skin hydrated, supports the skin’s natural moisture barrier, and reduces the uncomfortable feeling of dryness. However, choosing the right product depends on your skin type, climate, skincare concerns, and personal preferences.
Clinique is a well-known skincare and cosmetics brand offering several facial moisturizers for different needs, including lightweight hydration, dry skin care, and mature skin. Many U.S. shoppers explore customer reviews on retailers such as Ulta Beauty, Macy’s, and Sephora before deciding which product to purchase.
In this guide, we explore some of the best Clinique moisturizers available to U.S. customers, including their reported customer ratings, key benefits, recommended uses, and the best time to apply them.
Editorial note: Ratings below are retailer-specific snapshots observed during research and can change. They are not universal ratings across every platform.
1. Clinique Moisture Surge 100H Auto-Replenishing Hydrator
Best for: Lightweight hydration, dehydrated skin, and a fresh, dewy finish.
Customer rating: Approximately 4.6/5 on Ulta Beauty and 4.7/5 on Macy’s at the time of research.
What is it used for?
Clinique Moisture Surge 100H is a lightweight gel-cream moisturizer designed to provide hydration without the heavy feel of a traditional rich cream. Its formula includes hyaluronic acid and aloe-derived ingredients that help attract and retain moisture.
It is particularly appealing to people who want their skin to feel comfortable, soft, and hydrated without a greasy finish.
Key benefits
- Hydration: Helps replenish moisture and reduce the feeling of tight, dehydrated skin.
- Lightweight texture: Suitable for people who dislike thick creams.
- Dewy appearance: Can leave skin looking fresh and supple.
- Makeup preparation: Can be used before foundation after allowing it to absorb.
- Flexible skincare routine: Can be incorporated into both morning and evening routines.
Retailer reviews frequently mention its lightweight texture, moisturizing feel, and smooth finish. Some customers, however, report stickiness or irritation, so individual experiences vary.
When should you apply it?
Apply a small amount in the morning and evening after cleansing and any water-based treatment products. During the day, finish with broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher sunscreen.
Ideal for: Normal, combination, and dehydrated skin, including some oily skin types that prefer lightweight hydration.
2. Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion+
Best for: Dry to very dry skin and dry-combination skin.
Customer rating: Approximately 4.7/5 on Macy’s product listings.
What is it used for?
Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion+ is one of Clinique’s established daily facial moisturizers. It is designed to moisturize the skin and support its moisture barrier, helping skin feel softer and more comfortable.
The lotion version is especially suitable for people whose skin feels dry after cleansing or exposure to cold weather and indoor heating.
Key benefits
- Daily moisture: Helps reduce dryness and tightness.
- Moisture-barrier support: Helps skin retain moisture.
- Smooth application: Its lotion texture spreads easily across the face.
- Makeup compatibility: Can work as a moisturizing base beneath makeup.
- Fragrance-free formula: An option for shoppers who prefer skincare without added fragrance.
Customers on Macy’s frequently praise the lotion for its comfortable texture, hydration, and suitability for daily use.
When should you apply it?
Use it every morning and evening after cleansing. In the morning, apply sunscreen afterward. If you use a treatment serum, apply it before the moisturizer according to the serum’s directions.
Ideal for: People with dry or dry-combination skin who prefer a classic lotion instead of a gel moisturizer.
3. Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Cream
Best for: People who want a richer moisturizing texture.
Customer rating: Approximately 4.7/5, based on Ulta Beauty’s listed rating at the time of research.
What is it used for?
This cream provides a richer alternative for people who find lightweight lotions insufficient, particularly when their skin feels rough, dry, or uncomfortable.
It is worth considering during colder months or for anyone who prefers a more substantial cream in their evening routine.
Key benefits
- Helps soften dry-feeling skin.
- Provides comfortable, rich moisture.
- Helps reduce the appearance of dryness-related roughness.
- Can be useful after cleansing or bathing when skin feels tight.
- Fits easily into a simple skincare routine.
Ulta’s customer feedback highlights moisturizing performance, smooth application, and everyday usability. Some users may find a cream texture too rich, especially if they have oily skin.
When should you apply it?
Apply after cleansing and serum in the morning, evening, or both, depending on your skin’s needs. If your skin is particularly dry, you may prefer using it at night.
Ideal for: Dry skin and people who prefer cream-based moisturizers.
4. Clinique Moisture Surge Intense 72H Lipid-Replenishing Hydrator
Best for: Dry skin that needs a richer hydration-focused moisturizer.
What is it used for?
Moisture Surge Intense is designed for people who want a more nourishing moisturizing experience than a lightweight gel can provide. Its lipid-replenishing approach is intended to help support the skin’s moisture barrier while delivering hydration.
The exact formulation and product name may differ by market or product update, so check the current U.S. listing before purchasing.
Key benefits
- Helps relieve the feeling of dryness.
- Provides a richer moisturizing experience.
- Helps skin feel softer and more comfortable.
- Can be useful during winter or in dry indoor environments.
- Can complement a routine that includes hydrating serums.
Customer experiences depend on skin type and the specific formulation purchased. A richer product may be less comfortable for people who prefer an oil-free, barely-there finish.
When should you apply it?
Apply morning and/or evening after cleansing and treatment products. During the daytime, follow with sunscreen.
Ideal for: Dry or dehydrated skin that benefits from a richer moisturizer.
5. Clinique Smart Clinical Repair Wrinkle Correcting Cream
Best for: Mature skin and people concerned about visible signs of aging.
Customer rating: Approximately 4.4/5 for the cream on one product listing in the wider Clinique retail range; confirm the rating for the exact U.S. size and formulation before publication.
What is it used for?
Clinique’s Smart Clinical Repair range is aimed at people who want to address visible signs of aging alongside their moisturizing routine. The cream is intended to provide moisture while helping improve the appearance of skin texture and fine lines.
It is important to distinguish hydration from wrinkle treatment. Moisturizing can make fine lines associated with dryness look less noticeable, but it does not permanently eliminate wrinkles.
Key benefits
- Helps moisturize dry or mature skin.
- Can make skin feel softer and smoother.
- Supports a routine focused on visible signs of aging.
- Helps reduce the appearance of dehydration-related fine lines.
- Can be paired with sunscreen and other compatible skincare products.
Results vary by individual, and no moisturizer can guarantee wrinkle removal or a particular lifting effect.
When should you apply it?
Use in the morning, evening, or both, following the product’s directions. During the day, apply sunscreen as the final skincare step before makeup.
Ideal for: Adults looking for a moisturizer that fits into an age-conscious skincare routine.
Clinique Moisturizers Compared
| Product | Best suited for | Main benefit | Customer rating snapshot |
|---|---|---|---|
| Moisture Surge 100H | Dehydrated, combination skin | Lightweight hydration | 4.6/5 Ulta; 4.7/5 Macy’s |
| Dramatically Different Lotion+ | Dry to dry-combination skin | Everyday moisture | 4.7/5 Macy’s |
| Dramatically Different Cream | Dry skin | Richer moisturization | 4.7/5 Ulta |
| Moisture Surge Intense 72H | Dry skin | Rich hydration | Verify current U.S. listing |
| Smart Clinical Repair Cream | Mature skin | Moisture and smoother-looking skin | Verify exact U.S. listing |
Ratings represent individual retailer listings, not a combined average. Product variants, sizes, and review counts can affect the displayed score.
How to Choose the Best Clinique Moisturizer for Your Skin Type
For oily skin
Look for a lightweight gel or water-based texture that feels comfortable without excessive heaviness. Moisture Surge 100H may be worth considering if your skin becomes dehydrated but you dislike thick creams.
Remember that oily skin can still need moisturizer.
For dry skin
Consider Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion+ or Dramatically Different Moisturizing Cream. The cream may be more comfortable if your skin regularly feels rough or tight.
For combination skin
A lightweight gel moisturizer may suit the oilier parts of your face, while a richer lotion can be applied to drier areas if needed.
For sensitive skin
Clinique offers fragrance-free options, but fragrance-free does not automatically mean irritation-free. Review the complete ingredient list, introduce new products gradually, and discontinue use if irritation develops.
For mature skin
Choose a moisturizer based on dryness and comfort, then consider other evidence-based skincare steps for concerns such as uneven tone or fine lines. Daily sunscreen is particularly important for reducing future sun damage.
Best Time to Apply Clinique Moisturizers
The best application time depends on your daily routine rather than a single universal rule.
Morning routine
- Cleanse with a gentle facial cleanser.
- Apply your preferred serum, if you use one.
- Apply your Clinique moisturizer.
- Finish with broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher sunscreen.
- Apply makeup, if desired.
Morning moisturizer can help skin feel comfortable throughout the day and prepare it for makeup.
Evening routine
- Remove makeup and sunscreen.
- Cleanse your face.
- Apply any appropriate treatment serum.
- Apply your Clinique moisturizer.
Nighttime moisturizing helps reduce moisture loss and supports skin comfort while you sleep. It is not necessary to buy a separate night cream if your daytime moisturizer already meets your needs.
After a shower
If your skin feels dry after bathing, apply moisturizer while the skin is still slightly damp. This can help retain moisture.
During winter
Cold outdoor air, wind, and indoor heating can contribute to dryness. You may find that a richer cream works better during winter than a lightweight gel.
What Do Customer Ratings Actually Tell You?
A product rated 4.6/5 or 4.7/5 is generally receiving favorable feedback from that retailer’s reviewers. However, ratings alone do not establish that a product is right for every customer.
Before purchasing, consider these points:
- Read recent reviews: Look for feedback from customers with a similar skin type.
- Check the review count: A score based on thousands of reviews provides a different context from one based on a handful.
- Look for recurring comments: Hydration, absorption, texture, and irritation are useful themes to compare.
- Check the exact product: Moisture Surge 100H and Moisture Surge Intense are different products.
- Review the ingredient list: This is particularly important if you have known sensitivities.
- Compare value: Consider the amount of product, price, and how much you need per application.
Ratings can also differ because retailers collect reviews from different customer groups and may use different review systems.
Tips for Getting Better Results From Your Moisturizer
A consistent skincare routine is generally more useful than frequently changing products.
Apply a suitable amount of moisturizer evenly over your face and neck, avoiding direct contact with your eyes unless the product is specifically intended for that area. Use it regularly according to the directions.
If you use active ingredients such as retinoids or exfoliating acids, introduce them carefully and choose a moisturizer that helps maintain skin comfort. Seek professional advice if you experience persistent redness, burning, or unexplained irritation.
Most importantly, use sunscreen every day. Moisturizer alone does not provide adequate sun protection unless the specific product includes sunscreen and is used as directed.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which Clinique moisturizer has the best customer rating?
Ratings change by retailer and date. In the listings checked for this article, Moisture Surge 100H scored approximately 4.6/5 on Ulta and 4.7/5 on Macy’s. Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion+ also scored approximately 4.7/5 on Macy’s.
2. Which Clinique moisturizer is best for dry skin?
Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion+ and Dramatically Different Moisturizing Cream are options worth comparing. Moisture Surge Intense may also appeal to people who prefer a richer hydration-focused formula.
3. Can I use Clinique moisturizer every day?
Yes. Many facial moisturizers are designed for daily use, often morning and evening. Follow the directions for your particular product and stop using it if you develop a reaction.
4. Can Clinique moisturizer be used under makeup?
Yes. Apply a suitable amount, allow it to absorb, and then apply makeup. A lightweight gel or lotion may be preferable if you want to minimize a heavy or greasy feeling.
5. Does Clinique moisturizer remove wrinkles?
No moisturizer can guarantee wrinkle removal. Hydration may make fine lines caused by dryness less noticeable, while other ingredients and treatments may address different signs of aging.
6. Where can U.S. customers buy Clinique moisturizers?
Customers can check the official Clinique U.S. website and established retailers such as Ulta Beauty, Sephora, and Macy’s. Compare the exact formula, size, price, return policy, and current customer reviews before buying.
Final Verdict
The best Clinique moisturizer depends on your skin’s needs, not just its star rating. Moisture Surge 100H is worth considering if you prefer lightweight hydration, while Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion+ is a strong option to explore for dry-combination skin. People who prefer a richer texture may want to compare Dramatically Different Moisturizing Cream and Moisture Surge Intense.
For mature skin, Clinique’s Smart Clinical Repair range may complement a broader routine focused on moisture and visible signs of aging.
Before making your final choice, check current U.S. prices and ratings, read reviews from customers with similar skin types, and introduce new products gradually. A moisturizer that feels comfortable and suits your routine is often a better choice than one selected solely because it has the highest rating.
Disclosure: This article is for general skincare information and is not medical advice. Product availability, formulations, prices, and customer ratings may change. If this article contains affiliate links, disclose the relationship clearly and in accordance with applicable requirements.
