Moisture Surge™ 100-Hour Auto-Replenishing Hydrator
Moisture Surge™ 100-Hour Auto-Replenishing Hydrator
Product Description
Product overview
A refreshing, oil-free gel-cream moisturizer with aloe bioferment and hyaluronic acid that delivers instant and long-lasting hydration for up to 100 hours. Clinically proven to boost moisture by +174% immediately, leaving skin plump, dewy, and glowing. Dermatologist tested, allergy tested, and 100% fragrance free.
100-Hour Deep Hydration
Clinically proven to deliver stabilizing hydration for up to 100 hours, penetrating deep into the skin's surface for lasting moisture.
Texture & feel
SENSORY100-Hour Deep Hydration
Clinically proven to deliver stabilizing hydration for up to 100 hours, penetrating deep into the skin's surface for lasting moisture.
Aloe Bioferment Technology
Aloe vera concentrated 500x, then transformed through a 10-step fermentation process over 5+ days for enhanced moisture retention.
Dual-Weight Hyaluronic Acid
Two molecular weights of hyaluronic acid create a moisture reservoir that plumps and hydrates at multiple skin levels.
Antioxidant Shield
A blend of vitamins C and E helps protect against daily environmental dehydrators like pollution, stress, and UV exposure.
Auto-Replenishing Technology
Activated aloe water and caffeine help trigger skin's own rehydration system for continuous moisture replenishment.
Multi-Use Formula
Works as a daily moisturizer, makeup primer, dewy highlighter over makeup, or a 5-minute intensive hydrating mask.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEFree from retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, and chemical sunscreens. All ingredients are considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Contains ferments (Saccharomyces Lysate, Lactobacillus Ferment Lysate, Thermus Thermophillus Ferment) and Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12 (palmitic acid base) which may feed Malassezia yeast.
Brand-tested as non-comedogenic. Low comedogenic rating overall, though dimethicone may not suit all acne-prone individuals.
Dermatologist tested, allergy tested, and 100% fragrance free. Formulated for maximum results without irritation.
Gentle, hydrating formula works excellently alongside retinol and tretinoin to combat dryness and irritation from active ingredients.
Dimethicone and Trisiloxane provide a smooth, silky finish and help seal in moisture. Generally well-tolerated but some users with very oily skin may prefer silicone-free options.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid)Proven
Two molecular weights of hyaluronic acid work together to create a moisture reservoir at different skin depths. The lower-weight molecules penetrate deeper while larger ones hydrate the surface.
- Function: Humectant that attracts and holds up to 1,000x its weight in water
- Evidence: Extensively studied; proven to improve skin hydration, reduce fine lines, and enhance skin elasticity
- Dual-weight formula: Clinique uses two molecular weights for multi-level hydration
Aloe Bioferment ComplexProven
A proprietary blend of Lactobacillus Ferment Lysate, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Water, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, and Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Polysaccharides. The aloe vera plant is concentrated over 500x and transformed through a 10-step fermentation process over 5+ days.
- Function: Helps skin retain moisture and soothes inflammation
- Fermentation benefit: Breaks apart larger molecules into smaller, more absorbable ones
- Sources: Responsibly sourced and certified organic aloe extract powder
Glycerin 3–5%Proven
One of the most effective and well-researched humectant ingredients in skincare. Draws moisture from the environment and deeper skin layers to keep the surface hydrated.
- Function: Humectant, skin-conditioning agent
- Evidence: A 2016 study found glycerin more effective as a humectant than AHAs and hyaluronic acid
- Skin barrier: Helps strengthen the moisture barrier and supports natural skin repair
Trehalose 1–3%Promising
A natural sugar that mimics the carbohydrate fraction found in the upper layer of the skin. Binds to skin more strongly and longer than most other moisturizing ingredients.
- Function: Humectant and skin-protectant
- Unique property: Protects skin cells from desiccation stress and environmental damage
- Source: 100% natural, plant-derived moisturizer
Hydroxyethyl Urea 1–3%Proven
A urea derivative that provides glycerin-level moisturizing power without the sticky or tacky feel. Creates a lubricous, moist sensation on skin.
- Function: Humectant that helps skin retain water and maintain elasticity
- Evidence: Manufacturer data shows similar moisturizing ability to glycerin at 5% concentration
- Note: Not the same as urea; gentler and non-exfoliating
CaffeinePromising
Part of Clinique's Auto-Replenishing Technology. Works with activated aloe water to help trigger skin's own rehydration system.
- Function: Stimulates skin's natural rehydration and has antioxidant properties
- Benefit: Helps reduce puffiness and energize tired-looking skin
- Synergy: Combined with aloe water for enhanced moisture-triggering effects
Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12 0.3–0.5%Promising
A peptide that supports skin barrier restoration and may stimulate collagen production for anti-aging benefits.
- Function: Skin barrier support, hydration, potential anti-aging
- Evidence: Peptides are actively studied; likely helpful for barrier restoration and fine line reduction
- Timeline: Typically takes at least 6 weeks to notice anti-aging results
Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate (Vitamin C)Proven
A stable derivative of vitamin C that converts to pure vitamin C once absorbed into the skin. Provides antioxidant protection against daily environmental dehydrators.
- Function: Antioxidant, brightening, collagen support
- Stability: More stable than pure L-ascorbic acid but less bioavailable
- Synergy: Combined with Vitamin E (Tocopheryl Acetate) for enhanced antioxidant protection
41 ingredients
Water/Aqua/Eau, Dimethicone, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Trisiloxane, Trehalose, Sucrose, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Hydroxyethyl Urea, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Silybum Marianum (Lady's Thistle) Extract, Betula Alba (Birch) Bark Extract, Saccharomyces Lysate Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Water, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Thermus Thermophillus Ferment, Caffeine, Sorbitol, Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12, Sodium Hyaluronate, Caprylyl Glycol, Oleth-10, Sodium Polyaspartate, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Polysaccharides, Lactobacillus Ferment Lysate, Saccharide Isomerate, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Tocopheryl Acetate, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Glyceryl Polymethacrylate, Tromethamine, PEG-8, Hexylene Glycol, Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Citric Acid, BHT, Disodium EDTA, Sodium Citrate, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Phenoxyethanol, Red 4 (CI 14700), Yellow 5 (CI 19140)
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse morning and night on clean skin after serums. Can also be layered over makeup as a dewy highlighter or applied generously as a 5-minute hydrating mask.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Skin
Start with a gentle cleanser to remove dirt, oil, and impurities. Pat skin dry with a clean towel.
Apply Toner & Serum (Optional)
If using a toner or treatment serum (such as Clinique Moisture Surge Active Glow Serum), apply these first and let absorb.
Apply Moisture Surge 100H
Take a fingertip-sized amount and gently massage onto face and neck until fully absorbed. A little goes a long way.
Follow with SPF (Morning Only)
In the morning, finish with a broad-spectrum sunscreen such as Moisture Surge SPF 28 Sheer Hydrator for UV protection.
Bonus: 5-Minute Mask
For an extra hydration boost, apply a generous layer over skin, leave for 5 minutes, then tissue off the excess.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- Your skin is dehydrated, dry, or combination
- You want a lightweight moisturizer that doesn't feel heavy or greasy
- You need a fragrance-free option for sensitive skin
- You want a moisturizer that works well as a makeup primer
- You're using retinol or tretinoin and need soothing hydration
- You want a versatile product (moisturizer + mask + highlighter)
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe hydrator
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia) — formula contains ferments
- You have extremely dry skin and need a richer, creamier formula
- You prefer a completely silicone-free moisturizer
- You live in a very cold, harsh climate and need heavier occlusion
- You want a moisturizer with SPF built in
- You're looking for significant anti-aging actives (retinol, AHA)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. Lightweight gel-cream absorbs instantly and maintains balanced hydration all day without heaviness.
Provides substantial hydration. In very cold or dry climates, layer with a richer cream on top or try Moisture Surge Intense 72H.
Oil-free formula hydrates without adding shine. Some oily-skin users may find the silicone base slightly too rich in humid weather.
Balances perfectly across different face zones. Hydrates dry areas without overwhelming the T-zone. A top choice for combo skin.
100% fragrance-free, allergy tested, and dermatologist tested. Works well alongside tretinoin without stinging or irritation.
Non-comedogenic per brand testing, but contains dimethicone and ferments. Patch test recommended. Not suitable for fungal acne.
Results timeline
6+ WEEKSImmediate Soothing Hydration
Skin feels soothed and hydrated within seconds of application. The gel-cream formula absorbs rapidly, delivering an instant moisture boost of +174%.
100% noticed instant hydration boostDeep Hydration & Plumpness
Skin feels deeply hydrated, plump, and visibly more radiant. The moisture reservoir created by hyaluronic acid and aloe bioferment is fully established.
99% said skin feels deeply hydratedImproved Resilience & Glow
Skin's natural moisture barrier is strengthened. Noticeable improvement in skin resilience, radiance, and resistance to daily environmental dehydrators.
95% said skin looks plump and glowingLong-Term Barrier & Fine Line Improvement
With continued use, Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12 supports collagen production. Fine lines appear softer, skin barrier is noticeably stronger, and overall complexion is healthier.
90% reported smoother skin textureRatings by platform
22K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Extremely lightweight and absorbs in seconds
- 100% fragrance-free and safe for sensitive skin
- Works beautifully as a makeup primer — smooth canvas
- Clinically proven 100-hour hydration
- A little goes a long way; jars last months
- Versatile: moisturizer, mask, and highlighter in one
- Compatible with retinol/tretinoin routines
- Paraben-free and phthalate-free formula
Criticized
- Jar packaging is not hygienic (no pump or spatula)
- May not be rich enough for severely dry or winter skin
- Premium price compared to drugstore alternatives
- Some users report a slightly tacky or sticky feel
- Contains silicones, which some users prefer to avoid
- Not fungal acne safe due to ferments
- No SPF — need a separate sunscreen in AM
- Dimethicone may cause breakouts for some acne-prone users
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESSimilar lightweight gel-cream texture with hyaluronic acid. More affordable but contains fragrance and lacks the aloe bioferment technology and antioxidant blend. Slightly less long-lasting hydration.
Ultra-affordable option with hyaluronic acid and amino acids. Cream texture is slightly heavier than Moisture Surge. Lacks the sophisticated aloe bioferment and auto-replenishing technology but provides solid basic hydration.
Very similar lightweight gel-cream concept with herbal extracts. Comparable texture and hydration, also fragrance-free options available. Slightly different botanical approach but similarly lightweight and refreshing for combination skin.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Clinique Moisture Surge 100H
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep lid tightly sealed after each use to prevent product from drying out.
Screw-top jar with protective inner seal. Pink-tinted jar with matching cap. Consider using a clean spatula for hygienic dispensing.
Yes — the 15ml and 30ml sizes are under 100ml/3.4oz TSA carry-on limit. Compact jar fits easily in travel bags.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. Clinique Moisture Surge 100H is considered safe for pregnancy and breastfeeding. It does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, benzoyl peroxide, or chemical sunscreens — the ingredients most commonly flagged during pregnancy. The formula is fragrance-free, allergy tested, and dermatologist tested, making it a gentle choice for expectant and nursing mothers. As always, consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.
No. Moisture Surge 100H contains several ingredients that can feed Malassezia yeast, including Saccharomyces Lysate Extract, Lactobacillus Ferment Lysate, Thermus Thermophillus Ferment (all ferments), and Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12 (which has a palmitic acid base). If you have active fungal acne or are prone to Malassezia folliculitis, consider a fungal-acne-safe alternative.
Yes. Moisture Surge 100H is an excellent companion to active ingredients. Its gentle, hydrating formula helps soothe and counteract the dryness and irritation often associated with retinol, tretinoin, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs. Many users report that it is one of the few moisturizers that does not sting when applied to retinol-sensitized skin. Apply your actives first, allow them to absorb, then follow with Moisture Surge 100H.
Moisture Surge 100H is designed for all skin types but performs best on normal, combination, and dry skin. Its lightweight, oil-free gel-cream texture absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy film, making it suitable even for oily skin types. Those with very dry skin in harsh climates may want to layer it with a richer cream. It is especially popular among those with sensitive or dehydrated skin due to its fragrance-free, allergy-tested formula.
You will notice instant hydration within 3 seconds of application — skin feels soothed, plump, and refreshed immediately. Within one week of consistent use, 99% of users reported that their skin feels deeply hydrated and 95% said their skin looks plump. For longer-term benefits like improved skin resilience, strengthened moisture barrier, and fine-line softening from the peptide ingredients, expect to see improvements after 4–6 weeks of regular use.
Apply Moisture Surge 100H as your moisturizer step — after cleansing, toning, and any serums or treatments, but before sunscreen (AM) or as the last step at night (PM). The recommended order is: Cleanser → Toner → Serum → Moisture Surge 100H → Eye Cream → Sunscreen (AM only). It can also be applied over makeup as a dewy refresher or used as a 5-minute mask for an extra hydration boost.
Clinique rates Moisture Surge 100H as non-comedogenic with an overall comedogenic rating of approximately 1/5. The formula is oil-free and has been dermatologist tested to confirm it does not clog pores. However, it contains dimethicone (a silicone), which a small number of individuals find can contribute to congestion. If you are particularly sensitive to silicones, consider patch testing first. The vast majority of users, including many with acne-prone skin, use it without breakout issues.
Clinique Moisture Surge 100H has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for best results. Store with the lid tightly sealed in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Consider using a clean spatula to scoop product from the jar to maintain hygiene and extend product freshness. The product comes with a protective inner seal under the lid to ensure freshness until first use.
Verdict: Clinique Moisture Surge 100H Auto-Replenishing Hydrator is a cult-classic gel-cream moisturizer that delivers on its promise of lightweight, long-lasting hydration. Backed by clinical testing and powered by a smart blend of hyaluronic acid, aloe bioferment, and antioxidant vitamins C and E, it provides impressive 100-hour moisture that suits nearly every skin type. Its fragrance-free, allergy-tested formula makes it a standout choice for sensitive and reactive skin, and it works beautifully under makeup. The main drawbacks are its jar packaging (less hygienic than a pump), the premium price point compared to drugstore alternatives, and the fact that it is not suitable for fungal acne sufferers. For anyone seeking reliable, everyday hydration in a lightweight formula — this is one of the best gel-cream moisturizers available.
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
|
|
|
| 3 |
Dimethicone
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Antifoaming Agent, Skin Protecting
|
|
|
| 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
|
|
| 2 |
Trisiloxane
Skin Conditioning, Antifoaming Agent
|
|





