What is Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion?

Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion was first introduced in 1968, and still remains one of the brand’s most popular skin care products. This silky lotion is meant for those with very dry, dry, or dry combination skin (Type 1 and 2 according to Clinique’s four different skin types). Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion is Step 3 of Clinique’s customized 3-Step Skin Care System. It is said to absorb quickly, deliver 8-hour hydration, strengthen the skin’s moisture barrier, and impart a youthful-looking glow. In this review, we’ll share how the key ingredients may benefit your skin, how to use this lotion, Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion reviews from real customers, and more. 

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What are the key ingredients in Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion?

In order to determine if Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion really can provide long-lasting hydration, strengthen the skin barrier, and give your skin a youthful glow, we’ll have to evaluate the key ingredients in the formula to see how they will affect your skin. As you’ll learn, the Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion formula mostly consists of rich emollients and hydrating ingredients that should help to improve moisture retention. Let’s take a closer look at the key ingredients: 

Mineral oil
After water, the highest concentration ingredient in Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion is mineral oil. Derived from a mineral source, typically a distillate of petroleum, mineral oil is a clear, odorless oil that functions as an emollient. Once applied to the skin, mineral oil forms a protective film on the surface that helps to prevent evaporation of the skin’s natural moisture.

Petrolatum
Another rich emollient in Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion is petrolatum, also known as petroleum jelly. Petrolatum is an occlusive agent that has a melting point close to body temperature, which means it will soften upon application and form a water-repellant film around the applied area. This film prevents evaporation of the skin’s natural moisture and increases skin hydration. Furthermore, petrolatum has been shown to penetrate deeply into damaged skin and enhance recovery of the skin’s barrier function. Maintaining a strong, intact barrier is important to keep harmful things like allergens, bacteria, and irritants from entering the body through the skin. 

Sesame oil
Sesame oil is another emollient in the Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion, but unlike mineral oil and petrolatum, sesame oil is lightweight and absorbs quickly into the skin. It is rich in vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids, which all combine not only to provide antioxidant protection but also help support the skin’s natural lipid barrier.

Urea
Urea is used in the Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion because it is an excellent ingredient for dry skin. After topical application, urea exhibits five main functions: retaining moisture, barrier maintenance, exfoliation, increasing permeability, and providing pain and itch relief.

Lanolin alcohol
Another excellent ingredient for dry skin in the Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion is lanolin alcohol. Lanolin alcohol contains a high concentration of cholesterol, a type of lipid molecule. Cholesterol is a natural component of the skin barrier, but levels begin to decrease with age. When the skin lacks cholesterol, it can appear dry, flaky, and damaged. Topical application of lanolin alcohol can help to replenish the skin’s cholesterol levels. The result is improved barrier function and increased skin hydration. Those with delicate, sensitive, and dry skin types will likely benefit most from products that contain lanolin alcohol. 

Barley extract
One ingredient in the Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion that may provide anti-aging benefits is barley extract. Barley extract contains high concentrations of phenols, which are known to provide antioxidant activity. Antioxidants help to combat free radicals, the unstable molecules that contribute to the formation of premature wrinkles and fine lines on the skin. Barley extract also has a large amount of selenium, which helps in maintaining the elasticity of skin, keeping it toned, and preventing free radical damage. Ingredients like barley extract that reduce the amount of oxidative stress in the skin help to maintain overall skin quality. 

Cucumber fruit extract
The final key ingredient found in the Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion formula is cucumber fruit extract. This botanical extract can help to increase skin hydration while also helping to reduce inflammation. 

How to use Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion

Spread Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion all over the face and throat (or where needed) twice daily.

Where is Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion sold?

Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion and other Clinique skin care products are sold on the brand’s website, as well as third party online retailers such as Amazon, Sephora, Ulta, and more. Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion is also sold at physical retail locations, such as the Clinique counter at department stores like Macy’s and Nordstrom. 

What is the Clinique return policy?

The Clinique return policy states, “If for any reason you are not satisfied with your purchase from Clinique Online you may return the unused portion for refund or exchange. We accept returns for products purchased from clinique.com only.”

Is Clinique cruelty free?

Clinique is not cruelty free. Clinique is owned by Estée Lauder, a company that tests on animals. While Estée Lauder does not conduct animal testing on their products or ingredients, they do test on animals when required to do so by law (such as in China). 

Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion reviews

Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion reviews on the brand’s website are a mix of very positive or very negative. The product currently has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars after more than 3,000 customer reviews. 

There are many positive reviews from customers who claim that this is the best moisturizer they have ever tried because it really helps to keep the skin soft and moisturized. For example, one reviewer shares, “Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion is by far the best moisturizer I have ever used. It never feels greasy, soaks right in, and is lightweight but helps so much to not have dry flaky skin.”

However, there are quite a few negative Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion reviews that you should be aware of before purchasing this product. Most of these negative reviews are from customers who experienced acne breakouts after using this lotion. For example, one review says, “I usually use the GEL version of this lotion. This time I received a sample of the lotion+ and gave it a try, it made me break out horribly. My skin is very dry and thought it might be helpful during the dry winter months.” 

What are some alternatives to Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion?

Overall, the Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion formula definitely contains plenty of ingredients that can help those struggling with very dry skin, such as rich emollients and hydrating ingredients.

But if dry skin isn’t an issue for you, we’d recommend considering a different product. We believe that nearly everyone can benefit from adding an antioxidant serum into their routine, which is why we’d like to recommend Formulyst Active Serum. 

Formulyst Active Serum features a blend of antioxidant vitamins C and E, ferulic acid, niacinamide, and panthenol. This multi-tasking serum helps shield your skin from environmental assaults that age your skin. It’s the ultimate antioxidant formulation to help your skin look brighter, healthier, and more youthful.

Another brand that balances the power of plants with cutting edge science is Carrot & Stick. Not only is Carrot & Stick good for your skin, it is also good for the environment as the formulas skip harmful chemicals commonly found in skincare products.