Dramatically Different Hydrating Jelly
Dramatically Different Hydrating Jelly
Product Description
Product overview
An unbelievably lightweight, oil-free water-jelly moisturizer that delivers 24-hour hydration repair plus pollution protection. Features Clean Shield Technology with botanical extracts to strengthen skin's moisture barrier and improve resiliency.
Clean Shield Technology
Botanical blend of sunflower seedcake, barley extract, and cucumber to strengthen skin's barrier and filter out pollution.
Texture & feel
SENSORYClean Shield Technology
Botanical blend of sunflower seedcake, barley extract, and cucumber to strengthen skin's barrier and filter out pollution.
Hyaluronic Acid
Acts as a natural moisture magnet/humectant to attract and retain water in the skin for lasting hydration.
Caffeine Infused
Provides antioxidant protection and helps improve microcirculation for a refreshed, energized complexion.
Algae Extracts
Multiple algae varieties provide hydration, anti-aging benefits, and help protect against environmental stressors.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, high-dose salicylic acid, or other pregnancy-restricted ingredients. 100% fragrance-free formula is gentle for expectant mothers.
Contains phenoxyethanol in low concentrations. Safe for nursing mothers when applied to face (avoid nipple area).
Contains Polysorbate 80 and Helianthus Annuus Seedcake which may feed Malassezia yeast. Not recommended for fungal acne prone skin.
Oil-free, non-acnegenic formula tested not to clog pores. Rating 1/5 - very low risk of causing breakouts.
Allergy tested, fragrance-free, and dermatologist developed. Suitable for even reactive skin types.
Clinically shown to be safe for use as soon as 1 day post non-ablative laser treatment.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSodium HyaluronateProven
A salt form of hyaluronic acid that acts as a powerful moisture magnet. Smaller molecular weight allows deeper penetration into skin layers for lasting hydration.
- Function: Humectant that attracts and holds up to 1000x its weight in water
- Benefits: Plumps skin, reduces fine lines, improves skin texture
- Research: Well-documented efficacy for skin hydration and anti-aging
Sunflower Seedcake ExtractProven
Part of the Clean Shield Technology blend. Rich in lecithin and helps treat inflammation while strengthening the skin's moisture barrier.
- Function: Barrier repair and anti-inflammatory properties
- Benefits: Strengthens skin barrier, improves resiliency, locks in moisture
- Note: This is the seedcake (powder form), not sunflower oil
Cucumber Fruit ExtractProven
Soothing botanical extract that provides cooling hydration and calms irritated skin. Contains vitamin C, caffeic acid, and minerals.
- Function: Soothing, hydrating, and antioxidant
- Composition: 95% water plus vitamins, amino acids, and minerals
- Benefits: Calms redness, refreshes tired skin, provides gentle hydration
Barley ExtractProven
Natural botanical that works synergistically with sunflower and cucumber in the Clean Shield Technology to balance and retain skin's moisture levels.
- Function: Barrier support and moisture retention
- Benefits: Improves skin resiliency, helps maintain optimal hydration balance
CaffeinePromising
Well-known stimulant that provides antioxidant benefits and improves microcirculation when applied topically to skin.
- Function: Antioxidant and circulation booster
- Benefits: Reduces inflammation, protects against UV damage, energizes skin
- Research: Studies suggest potential in preventing UV-induced skin damage
GlycerinProven
One of the most effective humectants available. Naturally occurs in skin and helps maintain optimal moisture levels.
- Function: Powerful humectant and moisture barrier support
- Research: 2016 study found glycerin more effective than AHAs and hyaluronic acid for hydration
- Benefits: Draws moisture deep into skin, antimicrobial properties
30 ingredients
Water, Bis-PEG-18 Methyl Ether Dimethyl Silane, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Hypnea Musciformis (Algae) Extract, Gelidiella Acerosa Extract, Hordeum Vulgare (Barley) Extract, Padina Pavonica Thallus Extract, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seedcake, Sucrose, Caffeine, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydroxyethyl Urea, Hydrolyzed Rice Extract, Sorbitol, Sodium Polyaspartate, PPG-6-Decyltetradeceth-30, Ethylhexylglycerin, Propylene Glycol Dicaprate, Caprylyl Glycol, Trehalose, Polysorbate 80, Carbomer, Sodium Hydroxide, Hexylene Glycol, Citric Acid, Sodium Citrate, Disodium EDTA, Phenoxyethanol.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as Step 3 in Clinique's 3-Step System after Facial Soap and Clarifying Lotion. Can be used alone or layered under a richer cream for extra dry skin.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Skin
Start with a clean face using your preferred cleanser (Clinique recommends their All About Clean Facial Soap).
Apply Toner (Optional)
Use Clarifying Lotion to sweep away pollution, grime, and dulling flakes for better product absorption.
Dispense Product
Pump a small amount onto fingertips. A little goes a long way with this concentrated water-jelly formula.
Apply to Face and Neck
Spread evenly over face and throat, focusing on areas that need hydration. The jelly absorbs instantly without residue.
Use Twice Daily
Apply morning and evening for optimal 24-hour hydration and pollution protection. Layer SPF during daytime.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin seeking lightweight hydration
- You want oil-free moisturizer that won't feel heavy
- You live in a polluted urban environment
- You prefer fragrance-free skincare
- You need a moisturizer that works well under makeup
- You have sensitive or allergy-prone skin
- You want a simple, effective daily moisturizer
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (contains potential Malassezia triggers)
- You have very dry skin needing richer hydration
- You prefer cream textures over gel formulas
- You need heavy-duty anti-aging ingredients
- You want a moisturizer with SPF included
- You're on a tight budget (consider drugstore alternatives)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight, oil-free formula absorbs instantly without adding shine. Perfect for controlling dehydrated oily skin.
Balances hydration across different face zones without overloading oily areas or leaving dry patches thirsty.
Provides all-day hydration to maintain healthy, balanced skin. Works beautifully year-round.
May not be hydrating enough alone. Layer under a richer cream or choose Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion+ instead.
Allergy tested, fragrance-free formula suitable for most sensitive types. Patch test if extremely reactive.
Non-acnegenic and oil-free. Good for regular acne but NOT for fungal acne due to Polysorbate 80 content.
Results timeline
2-4 WEEKSInstant Hydration Boost
Skin feels refreshed and hydrated. The water-jelly texture absorbs quickly, leaving a smooth, non-sticky finish ready for makeup.
100% felt immediate moisture boostMoisture Barrier Support
Clinically proven to boost skin's moisture by 115% and begin strengthening the moisture barrier.
115% moisture increase measuredImproved Barrier Strength
Visible improvement in skin's resiliency. Skin feels stronger, more balanced, and better protected against environmental stressors.
87% less vulnerable to pollutionHealthy, Glowing Skin
Consistent use reveals smoother, stronger skin with a pure, clean glow. Improved overall skin health and hydration balance.
Users report visible skin improvementRatings by platform
4K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Ultra-lightweight, non-greasy formula
- Absorbs instantly without residue
- 100% fragrance-free and allergy tested
- Excellent under makeup, no pilling
- Provides 24-hour lasting hydration
- Oil-free, non-acnegenic formula
- Refreshing, cooling water-jelly texture
- Dermatologist developed and tested
Criticized
- Not moisturizing enough for very dry skin
- Contains fungal acne triggers
- Slightly tacky feel before full absorption
- Higher price than drugstore alternatives
- No anti-aging active ingredients
- Some find the pump dispenses too much
- May feel too light in dry winter months
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESFragrance-free version with similar hyaluronic acid base. Slightly thicker texture, equally non-greasy. Great drugstore alternative.
Fragrance-free gel moisturizer at a fraction of the price. Less occlusive than the Clinique but still hydrating for oily skin.
Richer formula with ceramides for barrier repair. Thicker texture but equally fragrance-free and non-comedogenic.

Same brand, more hydrating gel-cream formula. Better for normal to dry skin. 100-hour hydration technology.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEClinique DD Hydrating Jelly

Clinique Moisture Surge 100H
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Look for the open jar symbol on packaging.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration required but feels extra refreshing when chilled.
125ml bottle with hygienic pump dispenser. Also available in 50ml squeeze tube for travel.
Yes - 50ml tube is under 100ml TSA limit. Pump bottle (125ml) exceeds carry-on liquid restrictions.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, this product is considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It is 100% fragrance-free and does not contain retinoids, high-dose salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or other pregnancy-restricted ingredients. The formula is allergy-tested and dermatologist developed. Contains phenoxyethanol as a preservative at safe levels. As always, consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.
No, this product is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains at least two potential Malassezia triggers: Polysorbate 80 and Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seedcake. If you struggle with fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis), consider alternatives like Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel which is listed as fungal acne safe by some sources.
Yes, this gentle formula works well with most active ingredients including retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs. Apply actives first, wait for absorption, then follow with the Hydrating Jelly to seal in moisture. The fragrance-free, soothing formula actually helps buffer potential irritation from stronger actives. It's even proven safe for use post-procedure (1 day after non-ablative laser treatments).
This product is best for oily, combination, and normal skin types. The lightweight, oil-free water-jelly formula absorbs instantly without adding shine or heaviness. It's excellent for those who find traditional moisturizers too heavy. While it's suitable for all skin types per Clinique, those with very dry skin may need to layer it under a richer cream, or consider the Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion+ or Cream instead.
Immediate results: Instant hydration and smoother-feeling skin. Within 2 hours: 115% moisture boost and initial barrier strengthening. Within 1 week: Improved skin resiliency and 87% better protection against pollution. With consistent twice-daily use for 2-4 weeks, you should notice visibly healthier, more balanced, glowing skin with a strengthened moisture barrier.
Apply as your moisturizer step after cleansing, toning, and serums, but before sunscreen (AM) or sleeping mask (PM). In Clinique's 3-Step System, it's Step 3 after Facial Soap and Clarifying Lotion. If you use multiple moisturizers, apply this lightweight jelly first, then layer a richer cream on top if needed for dry areas.
This product has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5 and is labeled non-acnegenic by Clinique. The oil-free formula is specifically designed not to clog pores. It's dermatologist tested and allergy tested. However, everyone's skin is different - if you're extremely acne-prone, patch test first. Note: it is NOT fungal acne safe despite being generally non-comedogenic.
The product has a 12-month (12M) Period After Opening (PAO). Look for the open jar symbol on the packaging. Unopened, Clinique products typically have a 3-year shelf life from manufacture. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain efficacy. If you notice changes in color, texture, or smell, discontinue use.
Verdict: Clinique Dramatically Different Hydrating Jelly is an excellent lightweight moisturizer for oily and combination skin types seeking oil-free hydration. The dermatologist-developed, fragrance-free formula with Clean Shield Technology delivers 24-hour moisture while protecting against pollution. It absorbs instantly, works beautifully under makeup, and is gentle enough for sensitive and post-procedure skin. The main drawbacks are its unsuitability for fungal acne and potential insufficient hydration for very dry skin. At $32 for 125ml, it's priced higher than drugstore alternatives but justified by its clinical backing, elegant formulation, and proven results. A reliable, no-fuss moisturizer from a trusted brand.
Product Overview
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Bis-PEG-18 Methyl Ether Dimethyl Silane
Emollient, Humectant, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Cucumis Sativus Fruit Extract
Emollient, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
|





