Clinique Clarifying Lotion 1.0 vs 1 (The Definitive Guide)

We've finally made it to the last leg of our journey exploring the world of Clinique's Clarifying Lotions. It's been quite a ride comparing the lotions side by side, hasn't it? We've already navigated through the terrain of 1 vs 2 for dry skin, explored the landscape of 2 vs 3 for combination skin, and scaled the heights of 3 vs 4 for oily skin.

Now, we're ready to embark on the final voyage of this series: Clinique Clarifying Lotion 1.0 vs Clinique Clarifying Lotion 1. Just when you thought we'd covered it all, we're back with one more duel. So, without further ado, let's dive right in and see how these two skincare champions compare in a side-by-side showdown!

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Clinique Clarifying Lotion 1.0 vs 1

For Whom Are These Lotions Designed?

Both these products are part of the Clinique 3-Step Skin Care System and serve as the second step—exfoliation. But they cater to different skin types. The Clarifying Lotion 1.0 is an exfoliating lotion specifically designed to be suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. Whether you have dry, oily, or combination skin, this is one to consider.

On the other hand, the Clarifying Lotion 1 is specially formulated for very dry to dry skin. So, if your skin is on the drier end of the spectrum, this could be your go-to product. Dry skin and sensitive skin tend to go hand-in-hand, though, so choosing between the two could be trickier than it might at first seem (we'll come back to this later).

What Do They Do?

Now, let's talk about what these products promise. Both the Clarifying Lotion 1.0 and Clarifying Lotion 1 claim to gently exfoliate the skin to reveal a smoother, brighter complexion. They both aim to sweep away pollution, grime, and dulling flakes. They also prepare your skin for moisturization, making it more receptive to hydration and treatment products.

Interestingly, despite their formulation for different skin types, both products claim to assist oilier skins by minimizing excess oil and keeping pores clear, and drier skins by removing surface flakes that can interfere with moisture absorption. They even promise to help fine dry lines disappear.

The usage instructions for both these products are quite similar. Both are to be used twice a day—morning and night—after cleansing. The application process involves using a cotton ball, sweeping gently over the face and neck. As with most skincare products, it's recommended to avoid the eye area. Following the application of either lotion, it's best to continue with Step 3 of the Clinique system: Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion+, Gel, or Cream.

RELATED ARTICLE: Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion vs Gel

What Are Their Formulas?

Let's get a bit geeky and delve into the ingredients (that's what we do at FemmeNordic, after all!). The primary components of both lotions are Water, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, and Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel). However, the Clarifying Lotion 1.0 has an alcohol-free formula, which we were *super* excited to see because all the other lotions have mixed reputations due to their alcohol content.

Lotion 1.0 is Clinique's answer to those who find alcohol-based products drying or irritating, or those with sensitive skin, that find the alternative lotions to be too potent.

The Clinique Clarifying Lotion 1 does contain Denatured Alcohol, but this means it might also provide a deeper "cleanse" (yes, it's not a cleanser, but you know what we mean), especially for oily skin. Both products contain Salicylic Acid, a great ingredient for exfoliation and treating acne-prone skin, and Sodium Hyaluronate, a form of Hyaluronic Acid, which is excellent for hydration.

Another noticeable difference is the colorants in the Clarifying Lotion 1, Yellow 5 (Ci 19140) and Blue 1 (Ci 42090), which are absent from the Clarifying Lotion 1.0. Dyes are another sensitive skin no-no, so we're glad to see it gone.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, both clarifying lotions have their strengths, and intentionally appeal to different skin types. If your skin is very dry to dry, and you don't mind alcohol in your skincare, the Clarifying Lotion 1 might be the one for you. If you have more sensitive skin, or you just prefer to avoid alcohol in your skincare, the Clarifying Lotion 1.0 has your name all over it.