Clinique vs Neutrogena (The Definitive Guide)

When it comes to hydrating moisturizers, there aren't many out there that can claim to be as great or as popular as those by Clinique and Neutrogena.

Come with us as we compare the Clinique Moisture Surge vs Neutrogena Hydro Boost moisturizers side-by-side to help you decide which is best for you and your skincare routine. Enjoy!

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Clinique Moisture Surge vs Neutrogena Hydro Boost

Beyond the obvious similarities and differences between the containers, we're going to have to dive straight into their formulas to start seeing any differences of note.

As I'm sure you're well aware, Hyaluronic Acid has an unbelievable ability to retain moisture; in fact, it can bind up to 1000 times its weight in water! This simple-yet-powerful property is the reason why you see it listed under the 'Key Ingredients' section of nearly every skincare product these days (because it keeps skin very hydrated). Surprise, surprise, both the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Moisturizer and the Clinique Moisture Surge Hydrator contain Hyaluronic Acid.

Both moisturizers are oil-free, however, only the Clinique Moisture Surge Moisturizer is fragrance-free.

The biggest difference comes down to what Clinique and Neutrogena have supplemented their formulas with to provide even longer-lasting hydration. The Clinique Moisture Surge Hydrator contains Aloe Vera Bio-Ferment, a nutrient-rich ferment that enhances the skin's ability to retain moisture. The Neutrogena Hydro Boost Moisturizer contains Trehalose, a sugar that is naturally found within the skin that also helps to trap moisture into the skin.

The Clinique Moisture Surge 100H Auto-Replenishing Hydrator is clinically proven to lock in moisture and keep your skin hydrated for up to 100 hours (as is implied in the full product name). Neutrogena boasts a slightly more modest 48 hours of hydration, which is around just under half that of Clinique's. Something else that is just under half of Clinique's, though, is the price of the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Moisturizer.

Both products have also found themselves becoming incredibly popular with makeup artists and makeup-wearers alike. Not only do they work fantastically as primers (thanks to them making your skin feel smooth and glassy), but they also work great as dewy highlighters on top of makeup, too!

All in all, deciding between the two just comes down to budget. The longer-lasting hydration that is offered by Clinique's Moisture Surge Hydrator is definitely worth that little bit extra in our opinion, but the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Moisturizer is a certified dupe for those looking for a cheaper alternative.

Moisture Surge 100H Auto-Replenishing Hydrator by Clinique

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Our rating: ★★★★★

Price: $$$$

An oil-free moisturiser containing aloe bio-ferment and hyaluronic acid.

What makes it special? This lightweight oil-free formula provides deeply moisturising hydration. An advanced hydrator with Auto-Replenishing Technology that helps skin create its own internal water source to continually rehydrate itself, then locks in moisture for a plump, healthy-looking glow.

Which skin types? All skin types.

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Hydro Boost Water Gel by Neutrogena

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Our rating: ★★★★★

Price: $$$$

A best-selling skin replenishing water gel moisturizer.

What makes it special? When your skin’s moisture barrier is weakened, the water content of your skin decreases, leading to drier and more tired-looking skin. Step up your skin’s hydration with Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel, designed to intensely hydrate skin and help strengthen the resilience of your skin’s moisture barrier. The fresh water-like texture leaves skin evenly hydrated with a supple, dewy glow that lasts all day long.

Which skin types? For normal to combination skin types.

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This article was originally published on May 5th 2022, but it has been reviewed and updated with the latest available information on February 5th 2024 by Sara Mckay, MA.