Whenever I'm asked to think of a coherent brand of skincare rather than simply a product, the first brand that comes to mind is definitely Clinique. I don't even know why; something to do with the set up of the Clinique counters, the lab like sales assistants and just the way Clinique has been advertised to my generation. Or maybe it's because it was the first brand I started with at the same time as all my friends.
Clinique does a really good job of catering to a wide range of skin types, pushing 3 steps as the way to go, with a personal skin consultation to reassure the weary. They have Facial Soaps of three different strengths, Clarifying Lotions of four strengths and the Dramatically Different Moisturising Lotion that everyone knows about. The final one is the much heralded product that is meant to do wonders for your skin no matter what.
From personal experience though, I find that their main skin products are too harsh for my dry skin and that the DDM doesn't really do that much for me. It's the other skincare products that I really like. Uncircle is definitely one of their best products; an undereye lotion that is moisturising without being overwhelming and suitable for all. Their Smooth Delivery Body Treatment is also a winner, as it exfoliates with a salicylic acid ( no don't worry, it's just like an exfoliator ) and moisturises at the same time. I like their haircare system as well, particularly the shampoo as it leaves hair feeling clean and weightless. As with all their products, a little goes a long way, and the price though at first quite hefty, will seem more reasonable as you realise how long their products last.
They also have a comprehensive mensline which addresses some of the more important points regarding male skin - dryness in patches and larger pores. You'll probably find that guys will object less to using Clinique as well as the image they've cultivated isn't as feminine as other products.
All in all, I think Clinique is a trustworthy, effective brand. You might not want to submit yourself to their "regime" but choose from amongst their wide range of products to really meet your needs.
I agree that there products can be a bit harsh, I tend to use the stuff desinged for women, it's better on my baby soft, sensitive and wimpish skin!
Connoisseur_Haggler 29.11.2000 11:09
hi, Wing,
thanks for your comment on my CD Diorcil mascara...
I just updated that now.. as the opinion was written some time ago..and one of my earlier ones!!
yes, I have used Lancome too(Extensils) I have found the next best to CD as far as mascara goes.
Connoisseur_Haggler 28.11.2000 18:37
Clinique area well marketed american brand name, and they alwayd try to promote the product with offers such as "bonus time" etc. I use a few of their products, moisture surge is excellent, but do not follow the 1-2-3 routine! Some of the toners (used over a long time) can be quite harsh as they contain increasing level of alcohol and strip your skin. GOOD OP.:)
Spend over £25 and get a free £25 cosmetics pack and free delivery. For oilier skins. ... more
Skin-clearing, water-based scrub for strong, oily skins. Contains menthol, which gives the skin a fresh, cooling sensation. Gently polishes and de-flakes. Helps to control oil-related problems; skin looks translucent, clearer, brighter; takes edge off tiny lines and wrinkles; wakes up tired skin. Better stimulation; gives a light reflecting glow to mature skin. Allows better makeup application and moisturiser to absorb more easily. Promotes even skin tone refines texture. Rounded granules will not scratch the skin. Rinses off easily and leaves the skin clean and refreshed. Massage then rinse. Allergy tested. 100% fragrance free.
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Spend over £25 and get a free £25 cosmetics pack and free delivery. Speeds cell turnover; ... more
keeping skin clear, smooth, with that Clinique glow. Allows the driest and most delicate skins to reap the advantages of twice-a-day exfoliation. Allows for more effective moisturisation. Makeup goes on more smoothly and stays on longer. Gentle, non-stinging; cushioned non-drying refreshment. Helps smooth and soften dry, sensitive skin. Clinically formulated.
Postage & Packaging:£1.95 Availability:5 - 14 working days
Spend over £25 and get a free £25 cosmetics pack and free delivery. Lightweight daily ... more
conditioning for hair that wants to be full of body and shine. Detangles instantly, helps to control static. Softens without residue, giving fine hair a boost. For daily use or as needed.
Postage & Packaging:£1.95 Availability:5 - 14 working days
Spend over £25 and get a free £25 cosmetics pack and free delivery. Diminishes the look of ... more
puffy eyes, dark circles, shadows and fine lines. The Lightweight cream/gel formula actually helps hold eye makeup in place. For use morning and night, under eyes and on the lids.
Postage & Packaging:£1.95 Availability:5 - 14 working days
Spend over £25 and get a free £25 cosmetics pack and free delivery. For delicate skin. ... more
Gently polishes drier skin so it feels and looks healthy, comfortable. Skin looks translucent and clear. Allows better makeup application. Moisturiser absorbs more easily. Skin looks translucent and clearer. Takes edge off tiny lines and wrinkles. Better stimulation; wakes up tired looking skin. Helps control oil-related problems. Gives a light reflecting look to mature skin. Allows better makeup application. Moisturiser absorbs more easily. Promotes even skin tone and rinses easily. Comfortable on dry delicate skin. Massage then rinse. Allergy tested. 100% fragrance free.
Postage & Packaging:£1.95 Availability:5 - 14 working days
Spend over £25 and get a free £25 cosmetics pack and free delivery. Thoroughly removes ... more
makeup from oilier skins. Feels refreshing, cooling. User-friendly. Long lasting. Allows soap to perform more effectively. Easily rinses off. Calms the skin. Feels refreshing and cooling. Contains botanical extracts. Cap twists up, but not off.
Postage & Packaging:£1.95 Availability:5 - 14 working days
Spend over £25 and get a free £25 cosmetics pack and free delivery. For sensitive skin. ... more
Sweeps away dead surface skin cells. Skin appears smoother, softer, with more light-reflecting qualities. Allows more effective moisturisation. Makeup goes on more smoothly and stays on longer. Provides a cool, refreshing feeling. Provides mild exfoliation, helping to remove dead surface skin cells and speed the natural renewal of skin cells. Gentle for sensitive skin, removes lost traces of makeup solvent. Contains low levels of alcohol.
Postage & Packaging:£1.95 Availability:5 - 14 working days
Advantages: adds to the length and volume,does'nt flake or irritate the eyes,easy to apply& remove,affordable Disadvantages: slightly clumps,not water proof