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Clinique Even Better Clinical Brightening Moisturizer
Clinique

Clinique Even Better Clinical Brightening Moisturizer

Efficacy100/100IrritancyMedium
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Works for

2 of 2 advertised claims delivered

Evens skin tone
Acetyl glucosamine, Dimethoxytolyl propylresorcinol + 5 more
Strong evidence
What the product description says
“What Else You Need to Know CLINIQUE’s Even Better Clinical TM Brightening Moisturizer intensely hydrates, leaving skin feeling comfortable and soft and refines skin's texture so it feels smoother.”
Source: Sephora

This product can help reduce hypepigmentation and even out the skin tone because it contains the following effective ingredients: acetyl glucosamine

The following ingredient (ingredients) in this product might be helpful, but there is no evidence to confirm that it actually can help even out the skin tone: dimethoxytolyl propylresorcinol.

Keep in mind that you would need to apply any topical skincare targetted at hypigmentation consistently for a couple of months to get a result. No topical skincare product can help get rid of hyperpigmentation (including post-acne marks and age spots) instantly.

Acetyl glucosamineKey activeEffect: HighAn effective moisturizing ingredient that also has been shown to be effective in evening out the skin tone and reducing hyperpigmentation. It can help somewhat reduce wrinkles in skin~0.3–0.5%
Dimethoxytolyl propylresorcinolKey activeEffect: MediumCan help reduce hyperpigmentation and lighten skin, but additional research is needed to test its effectiveness on human skin~0.2–0.4%
Ascorbyl glucosideUnder-dosedEffect: MediumA vitamin C derivative that is more stable but less potent than pure form of vitamin C. Has a potential to boost collagen production, nutralise free radicals and reduce hyperpigmentation, but the required concentration is likely to be much higher than for the pure form of vitamin C, limiting the ingredient's effectiveness in products~0.45–0.7%
Dipotassium glycyrrhizateEffect: Low, below effective doseA salt derived from licorice. Works as an emollient to soften the upper layer of the skin and can help calm down inflammation. Might be helpful for skin lightening~0.25–0.45%
Yeast extractEffect: Low, below effective doseHelps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and might have some anti-oxidant and skin lightening properties. It can help calm down inflammation in skin~0.2–0.35%
Camellia sinensis leaf extractEffect: Low, below effective doseCan contain potent anti-oxidant compounds (abbreviated ECG, GCG, EGC, and EGCG) that might help protect the skin from free radicals. Can help calm down inflammation and has some anti-bacterial properties. Unfortunately, these antioxidants are unstable and lose their effectiveness very quickly in products. The concentration of the antioxidant compounds in the extract also tends to be low to be effective in topical formulation~0.2–0.35%
Salicylic acidEffect: Low, below effective doseUsed for skin exfoliation. It has an anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial effect, helps to unclog pores, prevent blemishes and speed up healing of the existing ones. Sometimes referred to as a BHA (beta-hydroxy acid)~0.2–0.4%
Moisturizing
Acetyl glucosamine, Sucrose + 29 more
Strong evidence
What the product description says
“Even Better Clinical Brightening Moisturizer”
From product name

This product can help improve hydration of the skin with the two types of ingredients.

The first type is called “humectants”:
these ingredients help attract water. When humectants are on the surface of the skin, they “pull in” the moisture from the outside environment, or from within deeper layers of the skin. The following ingredients in this product do the job: algae extract, faex.

This product also contains ingredients called “occlusives”. They help reduce the speed with which our skin loses moisture to the outside environment. These ingredients also help soften the upper layer of the skin, so it feels less tight and nicer to the touch. The following ingredients in this product do the job: dimethicone, algae extract.

The following ingredients in this product are especially good for supporting the skin barrier and helping with the hydration level: acetyl glucosamine

SucroseKey active· HumectantEffect: HighCan help attract water to the upper layer of the skin. In crystal form, it can work as a gentle exfoliant, gentler than the salt scrub. Helps stabilize the emulsion~0.2–0.4%
FaexKey active· HumectantEffect: HighYeast extract. Helps to attract water to the upper layer of the skin~0.2–0.35%
Acetyl glucosamineHero· HumectantEffect: HighAn effective moisturizing ingredient that also has been shown to be effective in evening out the skin tone and reducing hyperpigmentation. It can help somewhat reduce wrinkles in skin~0.3–0.5%
Algae extractKey active· Humectant, EmollientEffect: HighPlant extract that helps the skin to attract water and make it more smooth for touch. Also shows promise of anti-aging properties, but research is not extensive yet~0.25–0.45%
Saccharum officinarum extractKey activeEffect: HighSugar extract that helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin~0.2–0.35%
Sodium hyaluronateKey active· HumectantEffect: HighOne of the best moisturizing ingredients. Attracts water into the upper layer of the skin~0.25–0.5%
CholesterolKey active· EmollientEffect: HighAn emollient that is naturally found in skin~0.25–0.5%
GlycerinKey active· HumectantEffect: HighOne of the best moisturizing ingredients. Naturally present in skin. It attracts water to the upper layer of the skin working as a humectant~0.6–0.9%
Saccharomyces lysate extractKey active· HumectantEffect: HighHelps attract water to the upper layer of the skin. Can have some anti-inflammatory effect~0.15–0.3%
DimethiconeKey active· Emollient, OcclusiveEffect: HighA silicone that helps to reduce water loss from the surface of the skin. Can temporarily "fill in" lines and wrinkles, absorb oil, and create a nice product finish~3.1–3.8%
Cetyl alcoholKey active· EmollientEffect: MediumA non-drying alcohol that works to soften the skin and stabilize product formulations helping oil and water mix together~0.35–0.65%
Octyldodecyl myristateKey active· EmollientEffect: MediumHelps soften the upper layer of the skin~4.3–5.2%
Molasses extractKey active· HumectantEffect: MediumHelps attract water to the upper layer of the skin. Might have a weak skin-lightening effect, but solid research is missing~0.2–0.35%
Cetearyl alcoholKey active· EmollientEffect: MediumA non-drying alcohol. Works as an emollient. Helps water and oil mix together and creates a nice product texture~0.25–0.5%
Diisostearyl malateKey active· EmollientEffect: MediumHelps to soften the upper layer of the skin~1.3–1.6%
Peg-8· HumectantEffect: LowUsed to create a nice product consistency~0.7–1%
Polysilicone-11Effect: LowA silicone that forms a light film on the skin surface helping to bind water and temporarily absorb oils creating a matt and powdery feel~0.25–0.5%
Propylene glycol dicaprate· EmollientEffect: LowAn emollient that helps soften the upper layer of the skin~0.25–0.5%
Tribehenin· EmollientEffect: LowUsed to create a thicker product consistency and soften the upper layer of the skin~0.35–0.65%
Behenyl alcohol· Emollient, OcclusiveEffect: LowNon-drying alcohol that helps water and oil mix together. Also serves as an emollient~0.3–0.5%
Butylene glycol· HumectantEffect: LowUsed to create a nice product texture and help delivery of other ingredients. Might be somewhat helpful in attracting water to the upper layer of the skin~5.8–7.1%
Caprylyl glycol· Humectant, EmollientEffect: LowHelps preserve products and creates a nice product texture~0.25–0.5%
Di-c12-15 alkyl fumarate· EmollientEffect: LowUsed to soften the upper layer of the skin and create a nice product texture~2.3–2.8%
Glyceryl stearate· EmollientEffect: LowAn emollient that softens the skin and forms a protective layer on its surface. Helps water and oil mix together~1.5–1.8%
Isohexadecane· EmollientEffect: LowImproves the texture of the product and helps soften the skin. Helps oil and water mix together and can be used as a cleansing agent~0.3–0.6%
Isopropyl isostearate· EmollientEffect: LowAn emollient that helps soften the skin~1.8–2.2%
Butyrospermum parkii butterUnder-dosedEffect: HighA great moisturising ingredient that softens the skin and reduces water loss from its upper layer. It also can be helpful in protecting skin from free radicals~0.45–0.7%
Yeast extractUnder-dosedEffect: HighHelps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and might have some anti-oxidant and skin lightening properties. It can help calm down inflammation in skin~0.2–0.35%
Dipotassium glycyrrhizateUnder-dosedEffect: HighA salt derived from licorice. Works as an emollient to soften the upper layer of the skin and can help calm down inflammation. Might be helpful for skin lightening~0.25–0.45%
Cucumis sativus fruit extractEffect: Low, below effective doseMight be somewhat helpful in reducing hyperpigmentation and neutralizing free radicals but its typical concentration in a product is too low for having an effect~0.2–0.35%
Camellia sinensis leaf extractEffect: Low, below effective doseCan contain potent anti-oxidant compounds (abbreviated ECG, GCG, EGC, and EGCG) that might help protect the skin from free radicals. Can help calm down inflammation and has some anti-bacterial properties. Unfortunately, these antioxidants are unstable and lose their effectiveness very quickly in products. The concentration of the antioxidant compounds in the extract also tends to be low to be effective in topical formulation~0.2–0.35%
Anti-aging
Not advertised by the brand · Acetyl glucosamine, Algae extract + 3 more
Strong evidence

This product can help reduce and prevent fine lines and wrinkles, improve skin elasticity and firmness because it contains acetyl glucosamine.

Keep in mind that it typically takes at least 6 weeks to notice any results because the changes that are needed to improve fine lines and elasticity happen in the deeper layers of the skin. No topical anti-aging product can “erase” wrinkles or fully reverse signs of aging.

Acetyl glucosamineKey activeEffect: HighAn effective moisturizing ingredient that also has been shown to be effective in evening out the skin tone and reducing hyperpigmentation. It can help somewhat reduce wrinkles in skin~0.3–0.5%
Algae extractEffect: LowPlant extract that helps the skin to attract water and make it more smooth for touch. Also shows promise of anti-aging properties, but research is not extensive yet~0.25–0.45%
Ascorbyl glucosideUnder-dosedEffect: MediumA vitamin C derivative that is more stable but less potent than pure form of vitamin C. Has a potential to boost collagen production, nutralise free radicals and reduce hyperpigmentation, but the required concentration is likely to be much higher than for the pure form of vitamin C, limiting the ingredient's effectiveness in products~0.45–0.7%
Camellia sinensis leaf extractEffect: Low, below effective doseCan contain potent anti-oxidant compounds (abbreviated ECG, GCG, EGC, and EGCG) that might help protect the skin from free radicals. Can help calm down inflammation and has some anti-bacterial properties. Unfortunately, these antioxidants are unstable and lose their effectiveness very quickly in products. The concentration of the antioxidant compounds in the extract also tends to be low to be effective in topical formulation~0.2–0.35%
Butyrospermum parkii butterEffect: Low, below effective doseA great moisturising ingredient that softens the skin and reduces water loss from its upper layer. It also can be helpful in protecting skin from free radicals~0.45–0.7%

Can it cause trouble?

Irritancy
22 flagged ingredients
Medium risk
We flagged 22 ingredients with irritancy potential. Severity depends on your sensitivity threshold; the table lists the worst offenders first.
IngredientFunctionIrritationEst. amount
Salicylic acidUsed for skin exfoliation. It has an anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial effect, helps to unclog pores, prevent blemishes and speed up healing of the existing ones. Sometimes referred to as a BHA (beta-hydroxy acid)High~0.2–0.4%est.
Dimethoxytolyl propylresorcinolCan help reduce hyperpigmentation and lighten skin, but additional research is needed to test its effectiveness on human skinHigh~0.2–0.4%est.
Di-c12-15 alkyl fumarateUsed to soften the upper layer of the skin and create a nice product textureMedium~2.3–2.8%est.
Diisostearyl malateHelps to soften the upper layer of the skinMedium~1.3–1.6%est.
Peg-8Used to create a nice product consistencyMedium~0.7–1%est.
Ascorbyl glucosideA vitamin C derivative that is more stable but less potent than pure form of vitamin C. Has a potential to boost collagen production, nutralise free radicals and reduce hyperpigmentation, but the required concentration is likely to be much higher than for the pure form of vitamin C, limiting the ingredient's effectiveness in productsMedium~0.45–0.7%est.
CaffeineMight be helpful in neutralizing free radicals. Can have a dehydration effect that might somewhat decrease the look of puffy eyesMedium~0.2–0.4%est.
Tocopheryl acetateA more stable but less bio-available form of vitamin E compared to Tocopherol. Might help moisturize and protect the skin from free radicals, but mostly used in low concentrations to stabilize other ingredients.Medium~0.2–0.4%est.
Cucumis sativus fruit extractMight be somewhat helpful in reducing hyperpigmentation and neutralizing free radicals but its typical concentration in a product is too low for having an effectMedium~0.2–0.35%est.
Hordeum vulgare extractA plant extract that might have some anti-oxidant properties. Avoid if you are sensitive to glutenMedium~0.2–0.35%est.
Cetearyl glucosideHelps water and oil in the product mix well together and improves product textureMedium~0.25–0.45%est.
Potassium hydroxideUsed to adjust the pH level of productsMedium~0.25–0.45%est.
Citric acidCan work as an exfoliant but is typically used to adjust the product pHMedium~0.2–0.4%est.
Sorbitan oleateHelps oil and water mix togetherMedium~0.25–0.45%est.
Di-c12-18 alkyl dimonium chlorideCreates a nice, smooth skin finishMedium~0.25–0.45%est.
Hexylene glycolHelps create a more spreadable product textureMedium~0.25–0.45%est.
Acrylates/c10-30 alkyl acrylate crosspolymerMaintains the texture of skincare products. Allows the product to spread evenly. Helps oil and water mix togetherMedium~0.25–0.45%est.
Caprylyl glycolHelps preserve products and creates a nice product textureMedium~0.25–0.5%est.
Disodium edtaStabilizes the product formulationMedium~0.15–0.3%est.
BhtA preservativeMedium~0.15–0.25%est.
ChlorphenesinA preservativeMedium~0.15–0.3%est.
Potassium sorbateA preservativeMedium~0.15–0.3%est.
Comedogenic
5 ingredients rated 2 or more on the 0–5 pore-clogging scale
5 flagged
These ingredients have a comedogenic rating of 2 or more on a 0–5 scale; the table shows each one's rating. In leave-on products they can clog pores in acne-prone skin.
IngredientFunctionRatingEst. amount
Isopropyl isostearateAn emollient that helps soften the skin3/5~1.8–2.2%est.
Butyrospermum parkii butterA great moisturising ingredient that softens the skin and reduces water loss from its upper layer. It also can be helpful in protecting skin from free radicals3/5~0.45–0.7%est.
Algae extractPlant extract that helps the skin to attract water and make it more smooth for touch. Also shows promise of anti-aging properties, but research is not extensive yet3/5~0.25–0.45%est.
Cetearyl alcoholA non-drying alcohol. Works as an emollient. Helps water and oil mix together and creates a nice product texture2/5~0.25–0.5%est.
Sorbitan oleateHelps oil and water mix together2/5~0.25–0.45%est.
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Invisible Finish Moisture Gel
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Ingredients

Filter by role to see what each ingredient is doing.

Water~45–55%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Plain old water

More about Water
Butylene glycol~5.8–7.1%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Used to create a nice product texture and help delivery of other ingredients. Might be somewhat helpful in attracting water to the upper layer of the skin

More about Butylene glycol
Octyldodecyl myristate~4.3–5.2%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Helps soften the upper layer of the skin

More about Octyldodecyl myristate
Dimethicone~3.1–3.8%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
MoisturizingMattifying

A silicone that helps to reduce water loss from the surface of the skin. Can temporarily "fill in" lines and wrinkles, absorb oil, and create a nice product finish

More about Dimethicone
Di-c12-15 alkyl fumarate~2.3–2.8%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Moisturizing

Used to soften the upper layer of the skin and create a nice product texture

More about Di-c12-15 alkyl fumarate
Isopropyl isostearate~1.8–2.2%
Comedogenic 3/5
Irritation risk
Low
Comedogenicity
3/5
Works for
Moisturizing

An emollient that helps soften the skin

More about Isopropyl isostearate
Glyceryl stearate~1.5–1.8%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
CleansingMoisturizing

An emollient that softens the skin and forms a protective layer on its surface. Helps water and oil mix together

More about Glyceryl stearate
Diisostearyl malate~1.3–1.6%
Key activeIrritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
CleansingMoisturizing

Helps to soften the upper layer of the skin

More about Diisostearyl malate
Peg-100 stearate~1.1–1.3%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Cleansing

Helps oil and water mix togehter and creates a nice product texture

More about Peg-100 stearate
Peg-8~0.7–1%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Moisturizing

Used to create a nice product consistency

More about Peg-8
Glycerin~0.6–0.9%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

One of the best moisturizing ingredients. Naturally present in skin. It attracts water to the upper layer of the skin working as a humectant

More about Glycerin
Ascorbyl glucoside~0.45–0.7%
Under-dosedIrritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Anti-oxidationAnti-agingEvens skin tone

A vitamin C derivative that is more stable but less potent than pure form of vitamin C. Has a potential to boost collagen production, nutralise free radicals and reduce hyperpigmentation, but the required concentration is likely to be much higher than for the pure form of vitamin C, limiting the ingredient's effectiveness in products

More about Ascorbyl glucoside
Butyrospermum parkii butter~0.45–0.7%
Under-dosedComedogenic 3/5
Irritation risk
Low
Comedogenicity
3/5
Works for
MoisturizingAnti-agingAnti-oxidation

A great moisturising ingredient that softens the skin and reduces water loss from its upper layer. It also can be helpful in protecting skin from free radicals

More about Butyrospermum parkii butter
Tribehenin~0.35–0.65%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Used to create a thicker product consistency and soften the upper layer of the skin

More about Tribehenin
Cetyl alcohol~0.35–0.65%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
CleansingMoisturizing

A non-drying alcohol that works to soften the skin and stabilize product formulations helping oil and water mix together

More about Cetyl alcohol
Acetyl glucosamine~0.3–0.5%
Hero · Moisturizing
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Evens skin toneMoisturizingAnti-agingExfoliation

An effective moisturizing ingredient that also has been shown to be effective in evening out the skin tone and reducing hyperpigmentation. It can help somewhat reduce wrinkles in skin

More about Acetyl glucosamine
Sodium hyaluronate~0.25–0.5%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

One of the best moisturizing ingredients. Attracts water into the upper layer of the skin

More about Sodium hyaluronate
Dipotassium glycyrrhizate~0.25–0.45%
Under-dosed
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
MoisturizingAnti-inflammatoryEvens skin tone

A salt derived from licorice. Works as an emollient to soften the upper layer of the skin and can help calm down inflammation. Might be helpful for skin lightening

More about Dipotassium glycyrrhizate
Sucrose~0.2–0.4%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Can help attract water to the upper layer of the skin. In crystal form, it can work as a gentle exfoliant, gentler than the salt scrub. Helps stabilize the emulsion

More about Sucrose
Caffeine~0.2–0.4%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
De-puffingAnti-oxidation

Might be helpful in neutralizing free radicals. Can have a dehydration effect that might somewhat decrease the look of puffy eyes

More about Caffeine
Tocopheryl acetate~0.2–0.4%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Anti-oxidation

A more stable but less bio-available form of vitamin E compared to Tocopherol. Might help moisturize and protect the skin from free radicals, but mostly used in low concentrations to stabilize other ingredients.

More about Tocopheryl acetate
Cucumis sativus fruit extract~0.2–0.35%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
MoisturizingAnti-oxidation

Might be somewhat helpful in reducing hyperpigmentation and neutralizing free radicals but its typical concentration in a product is too low for having an effect

More about Cucumis sativus fruit extract
Camellia sinensis leaf extract~0.2–0.35%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Anti-oxidationAntibacterialAnti-agingAnti-blemishEvens skin toneMoisturizing

Can contain potent anti-oxidant compounds (abbreviated ECG, GCG, EGC, and EGCG) that might help protect the skin from free radicals. Can help calm down inflammation and has some anti-bacterial properties. Unfortunately, these antioxidants are unstable and lose their effectiveness very quickly in products. The concentration of the antioxidant compounds in the extract also tends to be low to be effective in topical formulation

More about Camellia sinensis leaf extract
Saccharomyces lysate extract~0.15–0.3%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin. Can have some anti-inflammatory effect

More about Saccharomyces lysate extract
Algae extract~0.25–0.45%
Key activeComedogenic 3/5
Irritation risk
Low
Comedogenicity
3/5
Works for
MoisturizingAnti-aging

Plant extract that helps the skin to attract water and make it more smooth for touch. Also shows promise of anti-aging properties, but research is not extensive yet

More about Algae extract
Helianthus annuus seed extract~0.15–0.3%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Helianthus annuus seed extract
Hordeum vulgare extract~0.2–0.35%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Anti-oxidation

A plant extract that might have some anti-oxidant properties. Avoid if you are sensitive to gluten

More about Hordeum vulgare extract
Yeast extract~0.2–0.35%
Under-dosed
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
MoisturizingAnti-oxidationAnti-inflammatoryReduces irritationEvens skin tone

Helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and might have some anti-oxidant and skin lightening properties. It can help calm down inflammation in skin

More about Yeast extract
Faex~0.2–0.35%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Yeast extract. Helps to attract water to the upper layer of the skin

More about Faex
Yeast extract~0.2–0.35%
Under-dosed
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
MoisturizingAnti-oxidationReduces irritationAnti-inflammatoryEvens skin tone

Helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and might have some anti-oxidant and skin lightening properties. It can help calm down inflammation in skin

More about Yeast extract
Molasses extract~0.2–0.35%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin. Might have a weak skin-lightening effect, but solid research is missing

More about Molasses extract
Saccharum officinarum extract~0.2–0.35%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Sugar extract that helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin

More about Saccharum officinarum extract
Salicylic acid~0.2–0.4%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Works for
Anti-blemishExfoliationAnti-inflammatoryAntibacterialEvens skin tone

Used for skin exfoliation. It has an anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial effect, helps to unclog pores, prevent blemishes and speed up healing of the existing ones. Sometimes referred to as a BHA (beta-hydroxy acid)

More about Salicylic acid
Cholesterol~0.25–0.5%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
MoisturizingCleansing

An emollient that is naturally found in skin

More about Cholesterol
Propylene glycol dicaprate~0.25–0.5%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

An emollient that helps soften the upper layer of the skin

More about Propylene glycol dicaprate
Cetearyl alcohol~0.25–0.5%
Key activeComedogenic 2/5
Irritation risk
Low
Comedogenicity
2/5
Works for
CleansingMoisturizing

A non-drying alcohol. Works as an emollient. Helps water and oil mix together and creates a nice product texture

More about Cetearyl alcohol
Behenyl alcohol~0.3–0.5%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Non-drying alcohol that helps water and oil mix together. Also serves as an emollient

More about Behenyl alcohol
Cetearyl glucoside~0.25–0.45%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Cleansing

Helps water and oil in the product mix well together and improves product texture

More about Cetearyl glucoside
Xanthan gum~0.25–0.45%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Cleansing

Used to create a thicker product consistency

More about Xanthan gum
Potassium hydroxide~0.25–0.45%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

Used to adjust the pH level of products

More about Potassium hydroxide
Sodium hydroxide~0.25–0.4%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Used to adjust the product's pH

More about Sodium hydroxide
Disodium phosphate~0.25–0.4%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Helps adjust the product pH and stabilize the formulation

More about Disodium phosphate
Sodium phosphate~0.2–0.4%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Helps stabilize the product formulation

More about Sodium phosphate
Citric acid~0.2–0.4%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

Can work as an exfoliant but is typically used to adjust the product pH

More about Citric acid
Dimethoxytolyl propylresorcinol~0.2–0.4%
Key activeIrritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Works for
Evens skin tone

Can help reduce hyperpigmentation and lighten skin, but additional research is needed to test its effectiveness on human skin

More about Dimethoxytolyl propylresorcinol
Sorbitan oleate~0.25–0.45%
Comedogenic 2/5Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Comedogenicity
2/5
Works for
Cleansing

Helps oil and water mix together

More about Sorbitan oleate
Polysilicone-11~0.25–0.5%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
MattifyingMoisturizing

A silicone that forms a light film on the skin surface helping to bind water and temporarily absorb oils creating a matt and powdery feel

More about Polysilicone-11
Di-c12-18 alkyl dimonium chloride~0.25–0.45%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

Creates a nice, smooth skin finish

More about Di-c12-18 alkyl dimonium chloride
Hexylene glycol~0.25–0.45%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Cleansing

Helps create a more spreadable product texture

More about Hexylene glycol
Polysorbate 80~0.25–0.5%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Cleansing

Helps water and oil mix together

More about Polysorbate 80
Acrylates/c10-30 alkyl acrylate crosspolymer~0.25–0.45%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

Maintains the texture of skincare products. Allows the product to spread evenly. Helps oil and water mix together

More about Acrylates/c10-30 alkyl acrylate crosspolymer
Caprylyl glycol~0.25–0.5%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Moisturizing

Helps preserve products and creates a nice product texture

More about Caprylyl glycol
Acrylamide/sodium acryloyldimethyltaurate copolymer~0.2–0.4%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Helps water and oil mix together and create gel-like textures

More about Acrylamide/sodium acryloyldimethyltaurate copolymer
Isohexadecane~0.3–0.6%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
CleansingMoisturizing

Improves the texture of the product and helps soften the skin. Helps oil and water mix together and can be used as a cleansing agent

More about Isohexadecane
Disodium edta~0.15–0.3%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

Stabilizes the product formulation

More about Disodium edta
Bht~0.15–0.25%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

A preservative

More about Bht
Chlorphenesin~0.15–0.3%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

A preservative

More about Chlorphenesin
Phenoxyethanol~0.2–0.35%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

A preservative. It helps prevent bacterial growth in cosmetic products

More about Phenoxyethanol
Sodium benzoate~0.15–0.25%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

A preservative

More about Sodium benzoate
Potassium sorbate~0.15–0.3%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

A preservative

More about Potassium sorbate
Ingredient list view

Water, Butylene glycol, Octyldodecyl myristate, Dimethicone, Di-c12-15 alkyl fumarate, Isopropyl isostearate, Glyceryl stearate, Diisostearyl malate, Peg-100 stearate, Peg-8, Glycerin, Ascorbyl glucoside, Butyrospermum parkii butter, Tribehenin, Cetyl alcohol, Acetyl glucosamine, Sodium hyaluronate, Dipotassium glycyrrhizate, Sucrose, Caffeine, Tocopheryl acetate, Cucumis sativus fruit extract, Camellia sinensis leaf extract, Saccharomyces lysate extract, Algae extract, Helianthus annuus seed extract, Hordeum vulgare extract, Yeast extract, Faex, Yeast extract, Molasses extract, Saccharum officinarum extract, Salicylic acid, Cholesterol, Propylene glycol dicaprate, Cetearyl alcohol, Behenyl alcohol, Cetearyl glucoside, Xanthan gum, Potassium hydroxide, Sodium hydroxide, Disodium phosphate, Sodium phosphate, Citric acid, Dimethoxytolyl propylresorcinol, Sorbitan oleate, Polysilicone-11, Di-c12-18 alkyl dimonium chloride, Hexylene glycol, Polysorbate 80, Acrylates/c10-30 alkyl acrylate crosspolymer, Caprylyl glycol, Acrylamide/sodium acryloyldimethyltaurate copolymer, Isohexadecane, Disodium edta, Bht, Chlorphenesin, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium benzoate, Potassium sorbate

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Amazon USPrice as of 10/26/2026 16:21 GMT
$52.00
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Worth comparing, line by line.

Match % combines shared ingredients, the first five ingredients, shared actives and hero ingredients, irritancy (lower counts in the alternative's favour), texture and body area. Only products in the same routine step are compared.

Side-by-side comparison of this product against its closest alternatives
CliniqueEven Better Clinical Brightening MoisturizerYOUR PRODUCTTom FordResearch Crèmee.l.f. CosmeticsBlemish Breakthrough Blemish Calming Water CreamNaturiumEncapsulated Salicylic Acid Moisturizer 0.75%
Match—83%76%75%
Price$52.00$244.44+$192.44——
Shared key ingredients—14 of 193 of 194 of 19
Key difference—Retinyl PalmitateNiacinamideNiacinamide
Irritancy Medium Medium Low Medium
Drying alcohol————
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Product summary

Based on the ingredient list, "Clinique - Even Better Clinical Brightening Moisturizer" can work well for skin moisturization. The formulation is based on a combination of good humectants and emollients. Both are needed to increase the skin hydration level. Acetyl glucosamine, algae extract, faex, glycerin and saccharomyces lysate extract in this product (humectants) attract water molecules to the upper layer of the skin (the water comes from the outside air or from the deeper layers of the skin if the air is dry). Emollients in this formulation (algae extract, cholesterol, dimethicone, cetearyl alcohol and cetyl alcohol) help to reduce the moisture loss from the skin. They also soften the skin surface and relieve the feeling of dryness and tightness.

This product contains ingredients that could be beneficial, but their concentrations are too low in this formulation: salicylic acid, yeast extract, yeast extract, dipotassium glycyrrhizate and butyrospermum parkii butter

Irritation risk

There are actives in this product that can be irritating. We assess the overall irritancy of this moisturizer to be medium. For a detailed overview of all potential irritants: click here

You can see the detailed formula review with the breakdown of all actives in the product and the full ingredient list with estimated concentrations in the tables below.

Price

The product retails for 109.99A$ in Australia and for 80.00$ in the United States.

For a detailed price comparison: click here.

Sources cited in this review

Every concentration estimate and effectiveness label is anchored to one of these 25 studies and safety reviews.

  1. 1
    Dimethicone as a protective ingredient in topical medicationsjaad.org
  2. 2
    Final Report on the Safety Assessment of Dimethicone Copolyoljournals.sagepub.com
  3. 3
    Glycerol and the skin: holistic approach to its origin and functionsncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  4. 4
    The Roles of Vitamin C in Skin Healthncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  5. 5
    Stability, transdermal penetration, and cutaneous effects of ascorbic acid and its derivativesncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  6. 6
    The effect of N-acetyl-glucosamine on stratum corneum desquamation and water content in human skinncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Clinique Even Better Clinical Brightening Moisturizer
CliniqueEven Better Clinical Brightening Moisturizer
Buy on Amazon$52.00 · as of 10/26 16:21 GMT

Affiliate links · As an Amazon Associate, WIMJ earns from qualifying purchases.

Buy on Amazon$52.00 · as of 10/26 16:21 GMT

As an Amazon Associate, WIMJ earns from qualifying purchases.