Score breakdown
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Full ingredient list
Best for
Our full review
Clinique's most popular product and one of the best gel-cream moisturisers ever made. The '100 hours of hydration' claim is marketing, but the formula genuinely delivers long-lasting moisture. Auto-Replenishing Technology uses aloe bio-ferment and hyaluronic acid to continuously attract and bind water. The gel-cream texture is weightless, absorbs in seconds, and works beautifully under makeup. No fragrance (Clinique is 100% fragrance-free across all products). For oily and combination skin that needs hydration without heaviness, this is the reference. At 35 EUR for 50ml it's mid-range, but the formula quality is genuine.
How to use
Apply to clean skin AM and PM. Can be used alone or under/over other products. Works as a primer. Apply to damp skin for extra hydration.
Who is it for?
Best for: oily/combination skin, normal skin, dehydrated skin, anyone wanting lightweight hydration, makeup wearers (excellent primer). Less ideal for: very dry skin in winter (may need richer cream on top).
What to expect
Immediate: fresh, hydrated feel without heaviness. Skin looks plumper. Long-term: consistently hydrated skin. Not a treatment product - don't expect anti-aging or acne results.
Common mistakes
1. Expecting 100h of hydration (marketing). 2. Using as sole moisturiser on very dry skin (too light). 3. Not considering Neutrogena Hydro Boost as a cheaper alternative (similar concept, but has fragrance).
FAQ
Moisture Surge vs Neutrogena Hydro Boost?
How it compares
Clinique B (81) vs Neutrogena B (72). Clinique is fragrance-free, better formulated. Neutrogena has fragrance. Clinique 35 EUR vs Neutrogena 14 EUR. For sensitive skin or maximum quality, Clinique. On a budget, Neutrogena (fragrance-free version if available).