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Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion+

Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion+

Product Description

A dermatologist-developed, cult-classic moisturizing lotion that delivers 8-hour hydration while strengthening your skin's moisture barrier. Clinically proven to increase moisture by 119% instantly with pure urea, glycerin, and pro-lipids.

πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡Έ American Classic Β· Made in USA
βœ” Dermatologist Developed βœ” Fragrance Free βœ” Allergy Tested βœ” Paraben Free βœ” Non-Acnegenic βœ” Post-Procedure Safe
Pregnancy Safe
Caution ⚠️
Fungal Acne Safe
No βœ—
Comedogenic Rating
2/5
πŸ“
Size
125ml / 4.2oz
πŸ’°
Price
$32.50
🧴
Type
Lotion
🎯
Skin Type
Dry to Dry Combination
⏰
Hydration
8 Hours

✨ Texture & Feel

πŸ’§
Consistency
Silky Lotion
πŸ‘ƒ
Scent
Fragrance-Free
⏱️
Absorption
3-5 Minutes
🎯
Finish
Dewy / Satin
πŸ’§

Instant Hydration Boost

Clinically proven to increase skin moisture by 119% instantly upon application.

πŸ›‘οΈ

Barrier Strengthening

Strengthens skin's moisture barrier by 21% in just 2 hours with pro-lipid technology.

⏰

Long-Lasting Comfort

Delivers continuous hydration for up to 8 hours, keeping skin soft and supple all day.

🌿

Botanical Blend

Contains sunflower seedcake, barley extract, and cucumber fruit extract for skin soothing.

πŸ›‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility

⚠️
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Generally considered safe. Contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone. However, contains synthetic dyes and triethanolamine which some prefer to avoid. Consult your healthcare provider.

❌
Fungal Acne (Malassezia)

Not recommended. Contains fatty acids (stearic acid, sesame oil), esters (propylene glycol dicaprate), and petrolatum which may feed Malassezia yeast.

βœ…
Sensitive Skin

Allergy-tested and fragrance-free formula. Suitable for sensitive skin types. Dermatologist developed and tested.

βœ…
Post-Procedure Safe

Safe to use as soon as 1 day after non-ablative laser procedures. Clinically tested for post-procedure skin.

πŸ”¬ Ingredient Breakdown

πŸ’§ Glycerin ~5-10% Proven

One of the most effective humectants available. Attracts and retains water in the skin, keeping it hydrated and plump. A 2016 study found glycerin more effective than hyaluronic acid as a humectant.

  • Function: Powerful humectant that pulls moisture from the air into your skin
  • Benefit: Supports skin's natural moisture barrier and improves skin texture
  • Safety: Comedogenicity rating of 0, suitable for all skin types
βœ…
Naturally occurring in skin and considered one of the safest, most effective hydrating ingredients.

πŸ§ͺ Urea ~1-3% Proven

A natural component of skin's NMF (Natural Moisturizing Factor). Acts as a powerful humectant with additional exfoliating and anti-fungal properties at higher concentrations.

  • Function: Humectant that draws moisture and mildly exfoliates dead skin cells
  • Benefit: Anti-itching, anti-inflammatory, and helps inhibit Malassezia growth
  • Source: Makes up about 7% of natural moisturizing factors in healthy skin
βœ…
At low concentrations, urea is exceptionally moisturizing and soothing for dry, flaky skin.

πŸ’Ž Sodium Hyaluronate <1% Proven

The sodium salt form of hyaluronic acid with smaller molecular size for better penetration. Can hold up to 1000 times its weight in water.

  • Function: Deep hydration and plumping effect
  • Benefit: Reduces appearance of fine lines and improves skin elasticity
  • Safety: Naturally occurring in skin, non-irritating

πŸ›’οΈ Mineral Oil & Petrolatum Combined ~15-25% Occlusive

Highly effective occlusive agents that form a protective barrier on skin to prevent trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL). Among the most studied and safest moisturizing ingredients.

  • Function: Creates protective barrier to lock in moisture
  • Benefit: Prevents water evaporation, extremely non-irritating
  • Safety: Comedogenicity rating of 0, unlikely to clog pores
⚠️
May feel heavy or greasy on oily skin types. Not suitable for those who prefer plant-based ingredients.

🌻 Botanical Extracts Supporting

A blend of sunflower seedcake, barley extract, and cucumber fruit extract that provides antioxidant, soothing, and skin-conditioning benefits.

  • Sunflower Seedcake: Anti-inflammatory, supports skin barrier
  • Barley Extract: Rich in antioxidants, protects against free radicals
  • Cucumber Extract: Soothing, anti-inflammatory properties

22 ingredients

Water/Aqua/Eau, Mineral Oil/Paraffinum Liquidum/Huile MinΓ©rale, Glycerin, Petrolatum, Stearic Acid, Glyceryl Stearate, Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Oil, Urea, Lanolin Alcohol, Triethanolamine, Hordeum Vulgare (Barley) Extract/Extrait D'Orge, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seedcake, Propylene Glycol Dicaprate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Butylene Glycol, Pentylene Glycol, Trisodium EDTA, Phenoxyethanol, Yellow 6 (CI 15985), Yellow 5 (CI 19140), Red 33 (CI 17200)

FREE FROM: Parabens, Phthalates, Fragrance, SLS/SLES, Alcohol (Denat.), Silicones, Retinoids, AHAs/BHAs

πŸ”„ Where It Fits in Your Routine

1
Cleanser
2
Toner
3
Serum
4
This Moisturizer
5
Eye Cream
6
Sunscreen (AM)

Use as Step 3 in Clinique's 3-Step System after Facial Soap and Clarifying Lotion. Apply AM and PM.

πŸ“ How to Use

1

Cleanse & Prep

Start with clean skin. Use a gentle cleanser and follow with toner if desired.

2

Dispense Product

Pump 1-2 pumps of lotion onto your fingertips. A little goes a long way.

3

Apply to Face & Neck

Gently spread all over face and throat using upward, outward motions. Allow to absorb for 3-5 minutes.

4

Follow with SPF (AM)

In the morning, always follow with sunscreen. At night, this can be your final step or layer with a facial oil.

πŸ‘€ Who Is It For?

βœ… Perfect for you if:

  • You have dry to dry combination skin
  • Your skin feels tight, flaky, or dehydrated
  • You need a reliable, no-fuss daily moisturizer
  • You prefer fragrance-free products
  • You have sensitive skin that reacts to many products
  • You want clinically-proven hydration results
  • You've recently had a laser procedure

❌ Consider alternatives if:

  • You have oily or acne-prone skin (try the Gel version)
  • You have fungal acne / Malassezia folliculitis
  • You prefer lightweight, water-based formulas
  • You want anti-aging actives (retinol, vitamin C)
  • You avoid petroleum-based ingredients
  • You're looking for a matte finish

🎯 Skin Type Compatibility

Dry Skin β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… Excellent

Perfect match. Rich emollients and occlusives provide intense, long-lasting hydration for parched skin.

Dry Combination β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… Excellent

Ideal for those with dry cheeks and normal T-zone. Balances moisture without overwhelming.

Normal Skin β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜† Good

Works well, especially in colder months. May feel slightly rich for some in summer.

Oily Skin β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜†β˜† Moderate

May feel too heavy. Consider the Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel instead.

Sensitive Skin β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… Excellent

Fragrance-free, allergy-tested, and dermatologist-developed. Ideal for reactive skin.

Acne-Prone β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜†β˜† Moderate

Non-acnegenic but contains occlusives that some find can trigger breakouts. Patch test first.

πŸ“ˆ Results Timeline

Immediately

Instant Hydration Boost

Skin feels immediately softer and more supple. Clinically proven 119% increase in skin moisture upon application.

95% noticed instant softness
2 Hours

Barrier Strengthening Begins

Skin's moisture barrier strengthens by 21%. Tightness and discomfort start to diminish.

85% reported reduced tightness
1 Week

Visible Improvement

Dry patches begin to disappear. Skin appears healthier, more balanced, and less flaky.

80% saw reduced flakiness
4 Weeks

Transformed Skin

Skin looks noticeably smoother, more radiant, and resilient. Oil-water balance restored for healthy-looking complexion.

75% reported glowing skin

⭐ Ratings by Platform

πŸ›’ Amazon
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… 4.6
Rating
15,000+
Reviews
⚠️ Main complaint: Some find it too greasy under makeup
πŸ’… Ulta
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… 4.5
Rating
2,800+
Reviews
⚠️ Main complaint: Price point feels high for basic formula
πŸ’„ Sephora
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… 4.4
Rating
1,500+
Reviews
⚠️ Main complaint: Not moisturizing enough for very dry skin
🏠 Clinique Website
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… 4.7
Rating
5,000+
Reviews
⚠️ Main complaint: Occasional breakouts for some users

βš–οΈ Pros & Cons

βœ… Praised

  • Clinically proven hydration results
  • Fragrance-free and allergy-tested
  • Dermatologist-developed since 1968
  • Excellent for sensitive, dry skin
  • Strengthens skin barrier effectively
  • Cult classic with loyal following
  • Safe for post-procedure skin
  • Absorbs relatively quickly for its richness

❌ Criticized

  • Contains mineral oil (not for clean beauty seekers)
  • Can feel greasy on oily skin
  • Price higher than drugstore alternatives
  • Not fungal acne safe
  • May cause breakouts for some
  • Contains synthetic dyes
  • Basic formula without anti-aging actives
  • Takes time to fully absorb

πŸ’° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)

85% Match
Equate Beauty Strikingly Unique Moisturizing Lotion
$6.84 Budget Pick

Walmart's near-identical dupe with similar ingredients and texture. Best affordable alternative with comparable performance for dry skin.

70% Match
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream
$16.99 Budget Pick

Contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid for barrier repair. Thicker texture, fragrance-free. Better for very dry skin but can feel heavier.

65% Match
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel-Cream (Extra Dry)
$19.99 Similar Price

Lighter gel-cream texture with hyaluronic acid. Fragrance-free version available. Better for combination skin but less occlusive.

60% Match
Vanicream Moisturizing Cream
$14.99 Budget Pick

Free of dyes, fragrance, parabens, and formaldehyde. Excellent for sensitive skin. Thicker texture, better for eczema-prone skin.

πŸ”„ Comparison with Competitors

Clinique DDMG (Gel Version)

$32.50
Key Ingredients Glycerin, Algae Extract, Caffeine
Size 125ml / 4.2oz
Fragrance None
Skin Type Oily to Combo
Fungal Acne Safe Disputed

CeraVe Moisturizing Cream

$16.99
Key Ingredients Ceramides, Hyaluronic Acid
Size 539g / 19oz
Fragrance None
Skin Type Dry to Very Dry
Fungal Acne Safe No

La Roche-Posay Toleriane

$29.99
Key Ingredients Niacinamide, Shea Butter
Size 40ml / 1.35oz
Fragrance None
Skin Type Sensitive, All Types
Fungal Acne Safe Yes (Fluide)

πŸ“¦ Storage & Shelf Life

πŸ“…
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening

🏠
Storage

Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration needed.

πŸ“¦
Packaging

Pump bottle (hygienic dispensing) or tube option available

✈️
Travel Friendly

125ml exceeds TSA carry-on limits. Travel size (50ml) available.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Generally considered safe by most dermatologists. The formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone. However, it does contain synthetic dyes (Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Red 33) and triethanolamine, which some prefer to avoid during pregnancy. The petrolatum and mineral oil are considered safe for topical use. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

No, this product is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients that can feed Malassezia yeast, including stearic acid (fatty acid), sesame oil (contains oleic and linoleic acids), propylene glycol dicaprate (ester), sunflower seedcake, and petrolatum. If you have fungal acne, consider the Clinique Dramatically Different Hydrating Jelly or look for products specifically formulated without these triggers.

Yes! This moisturizer works well with most active ingredients. Apply it after your retinol, vitamin C serum, or chemical exfoliants to help seal in actives and buffer potential irritation. The occlusive ingredients help protect the skin barrier while using potentially drying actives. Wait 1-2 minutes between products for best absorption.

This lotion is specifically formulated for Clinique skin types 1 and 2: Very Dry to Dry, and Dry Combination skin. It's excellent for those experiencing dehydration, flakiness, or a compromised moisture barrier. Not recommended for oily or combination-oily skin types β€” try the Gel version instead. Also great for mature skin and those in dry climates.

You'll feel immediate softness and hydration upon application (clinically proven 119% moisture boost). Within 2 hours, skin barrier strengthens by 21%. Most users report visible improvement in dry patches and flakiness within 1 week of consistent use. For optimal skin barrier restoration and long-term hydration, use consistently for 4+ weeks.

Apply as Step 3 in Clinique's classic 3-Step routine (after cleanser and clarifying lotion), or after your toner/essence and serums in a more complex routine. Use twice daily, morning and night. In AM, always follow with sunscreen. At night, it can be your final step, or layer with a facial oil for extra nourishment.

Clinique labels this product as "non-acnegenic." The main ingredients (mineral oil, petrolatum, glycerin) have comedogenicity ratings of 0. However, the occlusive nature means it can trap dirt and bacteria if skin isn't properly cleansed, potentially leading to breakouts for some acne-prone individuals. Sesame oil has a comedogenic rating of 1-3. Overall comedogenic rating: 2/5 (low to moderate risk).

The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. After opening, use within one year for best results and to ensure the formula remains effective and safe. The pump bottle design helps maintain hygiene and extends usability. Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight.

β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜†
4.3 out of 5

Verdict: Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion+ is a time-tested, dermatologist-developed classic that delivers on its core promise: reliable, long-lasting hydration for dry and sensitive skin. Its fragrance-free, allergy-tested formula makes it a safe choice for most users, and the clinically-proven results speak for themselves. While the mineral oil-based formula may feel outdated compared to modern "clean beauty" standards, it remains one of the most effective barrier-repair moisturizers at its price point. Best suited for those with genuinely dry or compromised skin who prioritize results over trendy ingredients. Not ideal for oily skin or those with fungal acne concerns.

Product Overview

question
lightbulb What are Quick Product Notes?

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.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

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.

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Quick Product Notes

Click on icons for more information
question
lightbulb What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?

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 Β«promisesΒ» 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.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

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

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Notable Effects & Ingredients

question
lightbulb What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?

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.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

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!

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Ingredients Related to Skin Types

Click on icons for more information
dry-skin Dry Skin
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
question
lightbulb What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?

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.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

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.

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Ingredient Safety Breakdown

EWG Health Ratings
Low risk
Medium risk
High risk
Unknown risk
% % % %