Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion - Product Review

Confusion is what comes to mind when I think about the thousands of skin care products on the market today that all promise to be the best. Furthermore, is there any warrant to the price differences among brand names? Does a more costly moisturizing lotion give you better results than your average drugstore variety?

To answer that, I tried the popular Clinique "Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion" and put it through the test when I needed a moisturizer the most, in the harsh, Fall & Winter months. I heard good things about it from friends, but was very skeptical.

First, let me give you a little background. I have very sensitive, dry skin that needs a lot of attention in the Winter. For the past 2 months, I've been somewhat negligent, not putting any moisturizer on my face, or using the cheap brands when I do.

After a couple of dry, flaky patches appeared on my cheeks, I bought the Clinique moisturizing lotion hoping to "save face." Initially, other than the creme / yellow color, I didn't notice much difference from the cheaper brands, except the consistency perhaps slightly thicker. Since it's unscented, I wasn't concerned about any adverse, allergic reactions to my sensitive skin.

I applied the lotion twice a day, in the morning under my make-up and once at night before bedtime. After just 2 days, my dry patches were gone and my skin looked much better. It was indeed softer and smoother as the company promises -- but there was something else I liked that I just couldn't put my finger on.

It wasn't until I got out the box (to take another look at the packaging) before writing this review, that I noticed it also claims to improve the skin texture. Perhaps that is what I can't quite pinpoint, but I am definitively happy with the results.

Now, about the price tag. It's semi-costly. I paid $20.50 for the larger 4.2 oz, which is quite a bit more than what you'd pay for the brands at your local discount center, but much less than other name-brands.

Was it worth it to me? While I don't think the results are "dramatically different," they are good enough for me to make a second purchase of this product. A little of this product goes a long way and I probably won't have to buy any more until sometime next winter.

The improvement I saw in the first 2 days (with my dry patches) and after using it for 1 1/2 months on my face and neck made it worth the money. In the summer, I don't need much moisturizer, and I think the less costly brands will suffice.

If you plan on using this product, keep in mind that it was tested on dry skin. I didn't experience any breakouts or any allergic reactions... But the consistency is a little thicker than other brands, and if you have oily skin, it may cause blemishes. I think there is now an oil-free formula. Ask for a free sample next time you're at the cosmetics counter at the mall and give it a try.

Pros: It worked good for me... Plastic bottle... It's allergy-tested for sensitive skin... You don't have to use it with the 3-step regime... One bottle will last a long time.

Cons: Wide-rimmed bottle makes the lotion messy and hard to get out... Too hefty for Summer use... Costs more...

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Product reviews reflect one person's experience and are not indicative of the results you may experience.