What's In My Jar
Clinique NEW Even Better Clinical Dark Spot Clearing Serum
Clinique

Clinique NEW Even Better Clinical Dark Spot Clearing Serum

Efficacy100/100IrritancyMedium
See all ingredients

Works for

Evens skin tone
Niacinamide, Ascorbyl glucoside + 9 more
Works well
What the product description says
“NEW Even Better Clinical™ Dark Spot Clearing Serum”
Source: Clinique

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

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: ascorbyl glucoside, dimethoxytolyl propylresorcinol, glycyrrhetinic acid, glycyrrhiza glabra root extract, yeast extract.

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.

NiacinamideKey activeEffect: HighIs proven to be effective in reducing blemishes, evening out skin tone and helping to improve lines and wrinkles. It helps the skin to repair sun damage, calm down inflammation and keep maintain good levels of moisture. The concentration of about 2% is effective for supporting the skin barrier and evening out the skin tone. Concentration of 4-6% is better for helping with acne and balancing the sebum production~1.2–1.8%
Ascorbyl glucosideKey activeEffect: 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~1.1–1.6%
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~0.35–0.85%
Glycyrrhetinic acidKey activeEffect: MediumActive compound of licorice root. Works to calm down inflammation, as an anti-oxidant, and might be helpful in lightening the skin and reducing hyperpigmentation~0.05–0.2%
Dimethoxytolyl propylresorcinolKey activeEffect: MediumCan help reduce hyperpigmentation and lighten skin, but additional research is needed to test its effectiveness on human skin~0.05–0.2%
Yeast extractEffect: LowHelps 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~2.5–3.7%
Glycyrrhiza glabra root extractEffect: LowA plant extract that can help lighten the skin and calm down inflammation. Might be helpful in neutralizing free radicals~0.1–0.4%
Trametes versicolor extractEffect: Low, below effective doseA mushroom extract that might have some skin-lightening and moisturizing properties, but solid research is lacking. It is unlikely to be effective in the concentration used in skincare products~0.15–0.5%
Magnesium ascorbyl phosphateEffect: Low, below effective doseA derivative of vitamin C that is more stable, but less bioavailable than the pure form of vitamin C. It does not penetrate the skin well, but has been shown to convert to pure vitamin C once in skin. It can be helpful in stimulating collagen production and lightening the skin tone, but the required concentration is likely to be very high~0.1–0.3%
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~0.05–0.3%
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)~0.05–0.2%
Anti-aging
Side benefit · Niacinamide, Ascorbyl glucoside + 3 more
Works well

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

These ingredients in the product can also be helpful, even though there is less evidence for their effectiveness: ascorbyl glucoside.

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.

NiacinamideKey activeEffect: HighIs proven to be effective in reducing blemishes, evening out skin tone and helping to improve lines and wrinkles. It helps the skin to repair sun damage, calm down inflammation and keep maintain good levels of moisture. The concentration of about 2% is effective for supporting the skin barrier and evening out the skin tone. Concentration of 4-6% is better for helping with acne and balancing the sebum production~1.2–1.8%
Ascorbyl glucosideKey activeEffect: 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~1.1–1.6%
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~0.35–0.85%
Magnesium ascorbyl phosphateEffect: Low, below effective doseA derivative of vitamin C that is more stable, but less bioavailable than the pure form of vitamin C. It does not penetrate the skin well, but has been shown to convert to pure vitamin C once in skin. It can be helpful in stimulating collagen production and lightening the skin tone, but the required concentration is likely to be very high~0.1–0.3%
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~0.05–0.3%
Moisturizing
Side benefit · Niacinamide, Acetyl glucosamine + 19 more
Works well

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: glycerin, sodium hyaluronate.

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, peg-10 dimethicone.

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

NiacinamideHeroEffect: HighIs proven to be effective in reducing blemishes, evening out skin tone and helping to improve lines and wrinkles. It helps the skin to repair sun damage, calm down inflammation and keep maintain good levels of moisture. The concentration of about 2% is effective for supporting the skin barrier and evening out the skin tone. Concentration of 4-6% is better for helping with acne and balancing the sebum production~1.2–1.8%
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~0.35–0.85%
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~5.1–7.6%
IsododecaneKey active· Emollient, OcclusiveEffect: MediumAn emollient that helps soften the skin and can decrease moisture loss. Helps create a nice product texture~3.7–5.5%
Yeast extractKey active· HumectantEffect: 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~2.5–3.7%
Peg-10 dimethiconeKey active· Emollient, OcclusiveEffect: HighA silicone that works to soften the upper layer of the skin and reduce its water loss~0.9–1.35%
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~0.3–0.75%
Sodium hyaluronateKey active· HumectantEffect: HighOne of the best moisturizing ingredients. Attracts water into the upper layer of the skin~0.15–0.65%
CholesterolKey active· EmollientEffect: HighAn emollient that is naturally found in skin~0.15–0.65%
SqualaneKey active· Emollient, OcclusiveEffect: HighAn oil naturally present in skin. Works as an emollient to soften the skin and form a protective layer on its surface without a greasy feeling.~0.15–0.65%
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~1.8–2.7%
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~1.5–2.3%
Peg-6· HumectantEffect: LowHelps to dissolve other ingredients and attract water to the upper layer of the skin~0.45–1.05%
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~0.1–0.45%
Propylene glycol dicaprate· EmollientEffect: LowAn emollient that helps soften the upper layer of the skin~0.1–0.3%
Caprylyl glycol· Humectant, EmollientEffect: LowHelps preserve products and creates a nice product texture~0.1–0.3%
Trametes versicolor extractEffect: Low, below effective doseA mushroom extract that might have some skin-lightening and moisturizing properties, but solid research is lacking. It is unlikely to be effective in the concentration used in skincare products~0.15–0.5%
Stearic acidEffect: Low, below effective doseHelps oil and water mix together and works as an emollient~0.1–0.45%
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~0.1–0.3%
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~0.05–0.3%
Triticum vulgare germ extractUnder-dosedPlant extract that might have moisturizing properties. Avoid if you suffer from wheat or gluten intolerance~0.1–0.35%
Anti-oxidation
Side benefit · Yeast extract, Ascorbyl glucoside + 9 more
Works well

This product contains antioxidants (glycyrrhetinic acid) that can help neutralize free radicals in skin. By doing so, they can lessen the damage the skin gets from the UV light (sun).

The following ingredients - ascorbyl glucoside, yeast extract also can have an antioxidant effect, but there is less evidence to confirm their effectiveness in skin.

Yeast extractKey activeEffect: MediumHelps 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~2.5–3.7%
Ascorbyl glucosideKey activeEffect: 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~1.1–1.6%
Glycyrrhetinic acidKey activeEffect: HighActive compound of licorice root. Works to calm down inflammation, as an anti-oxidant, and might be helpful in lightening the skin and reducing hyperpigmentation~0.05–0.2%
Glycyrrhiza glabra root extractEffect: LowA plant extract that can help lighten the skin and calm down inflammation. Might be helpful in neutralizing free radicals~0.1–0.4%
CaffeineEffect: LowMight be helpful in neutralizing free radicals. Can have a dehydration effect that might somewhat decrease the look of puffy eyes~0.05–0.25%
Tocopheryl acetateEffect: Low, below effective doseA 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.~0.1–0.35%
Hordeum vulgare extractEffect: Low, below effective doseA plant extract that might have some anti-oxidant properties. Avoid if you are sensitive to gluten~0.1–0.45%
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~0.1–0.3%
Triticum vulgare germ extractEffect: Low, below effective dosePlant extract that might have moisturizing properties. Avoid if you suffer from wheat or gluten intolerance~0.1–0.35%
Magnesium ascorbyl phosphateEffect: Low, below effective doseA derivative of vitamin C that is more stable, but less bioavailable than the pure form of vitamin C. It does not penetrate the skin well, but has been shown to convert to pure vitamin C once in skin. It can be helpful in stimulating collagen production and lightening the skin tone, but the required concentration is likely to be very high~0.1–0.3%
Camellia sinensis leaf extractUnder-dosedCan 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~0.05–0.3%
Anti-blemish
Side benefit · Niacinamide, Camellia sinensis leaf extract + 1 more
Works well

This product can help reduce breakouts and clogged pores because it contains the following ingredient: niacinamide. This ingredient is used for treating acne and can have a noticeable effect.

NiacinamideHeroEffect: HighIs proven to be effective in reducing blemishes, evening out skin tone and helping to improve lines and wrinkles. It helps the skin to repair sun damage, calm down inflammation and keep maintain good levels of moisture. The concentration of about 2% is effective for supporting the skin barrier and evening out the skin tone. Concentration of 4-6% is better for helping with acne and balancing the sebum production~1.2–1.8%
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~0.05–0.3%
Salicylic acidUnder-dosedUsed 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)~0.05–0.2%

Can it cause trouble?

Irritancy
21 flagged ingredients
Medium risk
We flagged 21 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~0.05–0.2%est.
Dimethoxytolyl propylresorcinolCan help reduce hyperpigmentation and lighten skin, but additional research is needed to test its effectiveness on human skinHigh~0.05–0.2%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~1.1–1.6%est.
Trametes versicolor extractA mushroom extract that might have some skin-lightening and moisturizing properties, but solid research is lacking. It is unlikely to be effective in the concentration used in skincare productsMedium~0.15–0.5%est.
Glycyrrhiza glabra root extractA plant extract that can help lighten the skin and calm down inflammation. Might be helpful in neutralizing free radicalsMedium~0.1–0.4%est.
Hordeum vulgare extractA plant extract that might have some anti-oxidant properties. Avoid if you are sensitive to glutenMedium~0.1–0.45%est.
Triticum vulgare germ extractPlant extract that might have moisturizing properties. Avoid if you suffer from wheat or gluten intoleranceMedium~0.1–0.35%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~0.1–0.3%est.
CaffeineMight be helpful in neutralizing free radicals. Can have a dehydration effect that might somewhat decrease the look of puffy eyesMedium~0.05–0.25%est.
Glycyrrhetinic acidActive compound of licorice root. Works to calm down inflammation, as an anti-oxidant, and might be helpful in lightening the skin and reducing hyperpigmentationMedium~0.05–0.2%est.
Caprylyl glycolHelps preserve products and creates a nice product textureMedium~0.1–0.3%est.
Stearamidopropyl dimethylamine—Medium~0.05–0.25%est.
PhosphatidylcholineUsed to enhance the delivery of other ingredientsMedium~0.05–0.3%est.
Sorbitan oleateHelps oil and water mix togetherMedium~0.05–0.25%est.
Hexylene glycolHelps create a more spreadable product textureMedium~0.05–0.2%est.
Citric acidCan work as an exfoliant but is typically used to adjust the product pHMedium~0.05–0.3%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~0.1–0.35%est.
Magnesium ascorbyl phosphateA derivative of vitamin C that is more stable, but less bioavailable than the pure form of vitamin C. It does not penetrate the skin well, but has been shown to convert to pure vitamin C once in skin. It can be helpful in stimulating collagen production and lightening the skin tone, but the required concentration is likely to be very highMedium~0.1–0.3%est.
BhtA preservativeMedium~0.05–0.2%est.
Sodium citrateHelps to control the skin's pH level. Maintains the skin's natural film of amino-lactic acids and oils. Helps to preserve productsMedium~0.05–0.3%est.
Disodium edtaStabilizes the product formulationMedium~0.05–0.2%est.
Comedogenic
2 ingredients rated 2 or more on the 0–5 pore-clogging scale
2 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
Triticum vulgare germ extractPlant extract that might have moisturizing properties. Avoid if you suffer from wheat or gluten intolerance3/5~0.1–0.35%est.
Sorbitan oleateHelps oil and water mix together2/5~0.05–0.25%est.
Alternatives
Cheaper, or higher on efficacy
10% Niacinamide Booster
Paula's choice 10% Niacinamide Booster
Cheaper88% match
$49.58
Clarity Peptides
Medik8 Clarity Peptides
Cheaper86% match
$59.88
View all alternatives

User reviews

Would you recommend?
No community reviews yet.

Be the first — your take helps the next person decide.

Ingredients

Filter by role to see what each ingredient is doing.

Water~40–60%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Plain old water

More about Water
Dimethicone~5.1–7.6%
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
Isododecane~3.7–5.5%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

An emollient that helps soften the skin and can decrease moisture loss. Helps create a nice product texture

More about Isododecane
Yeast extract~2.5–3.7%
Key active
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
Butylene glycol~1.8–2.7%
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
Polysilicone-11~1.5–2.3%
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
Niacinamide~1.2–1.8%
Hero · Moisturizing, Anti-blemish
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Anti-agingEvens skin toneMoisturizingAnti-blemishReduces irritationAnti-inflammatoryReduces rednessAntibacterial

Is proven to be effective in reducing blemishes, evening out skin tone and helping to improve lines and wrinkles. It helps the skin to repair sun damage, calm down inflammation and keep maintain good levels of moisture. The concentration of about 2% is effective for supporting the skin barrier and evening out the skin tone. Concentration of 4-6% is better for helping with acne and balancing the sebum production

More about Niacinamide
Ascorbyl glucoside~1.1–1.6%
Key activeIrritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Anti-agingAnti-oxidationEvens 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
Peg-10 dimethicone~0.9–1.35%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

A silicone that works to soften the upper layer of the skin and reduce its water loss

More about Peg-10 dimethicone
Peg-6~0.45–1.05%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Helps to dissolve other ingredients and attract water to the upper layer of the skin

More about Peg-6
Acetyl glucosamine~0.35–0.85%
Hero · Moisturizing
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Anti-agingEvens skin toneMoisturizingExfoliation

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
Glycerin~0.3–0.75%
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
Sodium hyaluronate~0.15–0.65%
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
Squalane~0.15–0.65%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

An oil naturally present in skin. Works as an emollient to soften the skin and form a protective layer on its surface without a greasy feeling.

More about Squalane
Cholesterol~0.15–0.65%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
MoisturizingCleansing

An emollient that is naturally found in skin

More about Cholesterol
Helianthus annuus seed extract~0.1–0.5%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Helianthus annuus seed extract
Trametes versicolor extract~0.15–0.5%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
MoisturizingEvens skin tone

A mushroom extract that might have some skin-lightening and moisturizing properties, but solid research is lacking. It is unlikely to be effective in the concentration used in skincare products

More about Trametes versicolor extract
Glycyrrhiza glabra root extract~0.1–0.4%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Anti-inflammatoryReduces rednessEvens skin toneAnti-oxidationAntibacterial

A plant extract that can help lighten the skin and calm down inflammation. Might be helpful in neutralizing free radicals

More about Glycyrrhiza glabra root extract
Hordeum vulgare extract~0.1–0.45%
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
Oryza sativa bran extract~0.1–0.35%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Used to thicken the product consistency

More about Oryza sativa bran extract
Triticum vulgare germ extract~0.1–0.35%
Under-dosedComedogenic 3/5Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Comedogenicity
3/5
Works for
MoisturizingAnti-oxidation

Plant extract that might have moisturizing properties. Avoid if you suffer from wheat or gluten intolerance

More about Triticum vulgare germ extract
Cucumis sativus fruit extract~0.1–0.3%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Anti-oxidationMoisturizing

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~0.05–0.3%
Under-dosed
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Anti-oxidationAntibacterialAnti-agingEvens skin toneMoisturizingAnti-blemish

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
Caffeine~0.05–0.25%
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
Salicylic acid~0.05–0.2%
Under-dosedIrritant · 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
Isohexadecane~0.1–0.45%
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
Propylene glycol dicaprate~0.1–0.3%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

An emollient that helps soften the upper layer of the skin

More about Propylene glycol dicaprate
Glycyrrhetinic acid~0.05–0.2%
Key activeIrritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Anti-inflammatoryAnti-oxidationEvens skin tone

Active compound of licorice root. Works to calm down inflammation, as an anti-oxidant, and might be helpful in lightening the skin and reducing hyperpigmentation

More about Glycyrrhetinic acid
Dimethoxytolyl propylresorcinol~0.05–0.2%
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
Caprylyl glycol~0.1–0.3%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Moisturizing

Helps preserve products and creates a nice product texture

More about Caprylyl glycol
Stearamidopropyl dimethylamine~0.05–0.25%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Cleansing
More about Stearamidopropyl dimethylamine
Phosphatidylcholine~0.05–0.3%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Cleansing

Used to enhance the delivery of other ingredients

More about Phosphatidylcholine
Sorbitan oleate~0.05–0.25%
Comedogenic 2/5Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Comedogenicity
2/5
Works for
Cleansing

Helps oil and water mix together

More about Sorbitan oleate
Polysorbate 20~0.1–0.3%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Cleansing

Helps oil and water mix together

More about Polysorbate 20
Polysorbate 80~0.1–0.3%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Cleansing

Helps water and oil mix together

More about Polysorbate 80
Stearic acid~0.1–0.45%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
CleansingMoisturizing

Helps oil and water mix together and works as an emollient

More about Stearic acid
Hexylene glycol~0.05–0.2%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Cleansing

Helps create a more spreadable product texture

More about Hexylene glycol
Tromethamine~0.1–0.3%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Helps adjust pH in products

More about Tromethamine
Citric acid~0.05–0.3%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

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

More about Citric acid
Acrylamide/sodium acryloyldimethyltaurate copolymer~0.1–0.3%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

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

More about Acrylamide/sodium acryloyldimethyltaurate copolymer
Ammonium acryloyldimethyltaurate/vp copolymer~0.1–0.35%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Increases thickness of a product. Texture enhancer for oil-in-water emulsions

More about Ammonium acryloyldimethyltaurate/vp copolymer
Tocopheryl acetate~0.1–0.35%
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
Magnesium ascorbyl phosphate~0.1–0.3%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Anti-agingEvens skin toneAnti-oxidation

A derivative of vitamin C that is more stable, but less bioavailable than the pure form of vitamin C. It does not penetrate the skin well, but has been shown to convert to pure vitamin C once in skin. It can be helpful in stimulating collagen production and lightening the skin tone, but the required concentration is likely to be very high

More about Magnesium ascorbyl phosphate
Bht~0.05–0.2%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

A preservative

More about Bht
Sodium citrate~0.05–0.3%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

Helps to control the skin's pH level. Maintains the skin's natural film of amino-lactic acids and oils. Helps to preserve products

More about Sodium citrate
Disodium edta~0.05–0.2%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

Stabilizes the product formulation

More about Disodium edta
Nylon-12~0.05–0.15%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Used to create a nice product consistency

More about Nylon-12
Phenoxyethanol~0.05–0.25%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

A preservative. It helps prevent bacterial growth in cosmetic products

More about Phenoxyethanol
Ingredient list view

Water, Dimethicone, Isododecane, Yeast extract, Butylene glycol, Polysilicone-11, Niacinamide, Ascorbyl glucoside, Peg-10 dimethicone, Peg-6, Acetyl glucosamine, Glycerin, Sodium hyaluronate, Squalane, Cholesterol, Helianthus annuus seed extract, Trametes versicolor extract, Glycyrrhiza glabra root extract, Hordeum vulgare extract, Oryza sativa bran extract, Triticum vulgare germ extract, Cucumis sativus fruit extract, Camellia sinensis leaf extract, Caffeine, Salicylic acid, Isohexadecane, Propylene glycol dicaprate, Glycyrrhetinic acid, Dimethoxytolyl propylresorcinol, Caprylyl glycol, Stearamidopropyl dimethylamine, Phosphatidylcholine, Sorbitan oleate, Polysorbate 20, Polysorbate 80, Stearic acid, Hexylene glycol, Tromethamine, Citric acid, Acrylamide/sodium acryloyldimethyltaurate copolymer, Ammonium acryloyldimethyltaurate/vp copolymer, Tocopheryl acetate, Magnesium ascorbyl phosphate, Bht, Sodium citrate, Disodium edta, Nylon-12, Phenoxyethanol

Compare prices

Retailers ranked by price — lowest first.

Find on Amazon
Search
🇬🇧 Clinique (UK)200 ml
≈ $78.21
Buy

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

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
CliniqueNEW Even Better Clinical Dark Spot Clearing SerumYOUR PRODUCTPaula's choice10% Niacinamide Boostercolibri skincareNiacinamide BoosterPerricone MDHigh Potency Hyaluronic Intensive Hydrating Serum
Match—88%87%86%
Price—$49.58—$89.13
Shared key ingredients—5 of 145 of 147 of 14
Key difference—PanthenolArginineAcetyl Tetrapeptide-11
Irritancy Medium Low Low Medium
Drying alcohol————
View product Shop Shop Shop
  • matches yours
  • differs
  • cheaper

More alternatives: Medik8 Clarity PeptidesYEOUTH Niacinamide Serum

Cheaper alternatives? See how this stacks up against similar formulas.
We compare ingredient profiles across our catalog — pick the closest match for your budget.
Open dupe finder

Sources cited in this review

Every concentration estimate and effectiveness label is anchored to one of these 32 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
    The natural yeast extract isolated by ethanol precipitation inhibits melanin synthesis by modulating tyrosinase activity and downregulating melanosome transferncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  4. 4
    Evaluation of dermatological effects of cosmetic formulations containing Saccharomyces cerevisiae extract and vitaminsresearchgate.net
  5. 5
    Niacinamide - mechanisms of action and its topical use in dermatologyncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  6. 6
    Gehring, W. (2004). Nicotinic acid/niacinamide and the skin. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 3(2), 88–93. doi:10.1111/j.1473-2130.2004.00115.x ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Clinique NEW Even Better Clinical Dark Spot Clearing Serum
CliniqueNEW Even Better Clinical Dark Spot Clearing Serum
Find on Amazon

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

Find on Amazon

As an Amazon Associate, WIMJ earns from qualifying purchases.