Clinique Acne Solutions Clearing Moisturizer, Oil-Free

Bottom line

Clinique Acne Solutions Clearing Moisturizer, Oil-Free is a benzoyl peroxide formula for acne-prone skin. It effectively reduces acne without causing irritation, but it isn't very moisturizing. Reviewers recommend using an additional oil-free moisturizer, such as Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel (*Est. $25 for 4.2 oz.), for added hydration.

Performance

Effective but not very moisturizing. Skin care expert Paula Begoun says Acne Solutions moisturizer is "one of the most state-of-the-art benzoyl peroxide lotions available today." It contains 2.5 percent benzoyl peroxide, which is mild enough to apply liberally over acne-prone skin. Begoun praises the formula for containing antioxidants and other ingredients to help calm and soothe the skin, but she says it also contains peppermint extract, a potential irritant. She notes there likely isn't enough of the ingredient to cause a problem but says it's an unnecessary addition.  

Users at MakeupAlley.com give the moisturizer a good overall rating, but they say it isn't very moisturizing. Several say that although it does an excellent job of clearing up acne, it can be rather drying. A few suggest using an additional oil-free moisturizer on top of the Acne Solutions.

Feel & Smell

Silky, gel-like texture. Editors at Cosmopolitan magazine say Clinique Acne Solutions has a cooling, gel-like texture. Users at MakeupAlley.com agree, saying the formula feels silky on the skin. A few say they like the light fragrance -- likely a product of the various extracts the formula contains. Acne Solutions Clearing Moisturizer is fragrance-free.