Neutrogena Healthy Skin Anti-Wrinkle Cream, Night Formula

image drugstore.com

Price: $14 for 1.4oz (40g)

What they say:

"Healthy Skin Anti-Wrinkle Cream is a dermatologist recommended Retinol anti-wrinkle cream clinically proven to visibly reduce fine lines, wrinkles and other signs of aging.

This patented formula contains Retinol, Vitamin A in its purest form, to work deep within skin's surface where wrinkles develop. A combination of Pro-Vitamin B5, Vitamin E and special moisturizers work with skin's natural mechanisms to even out skin tone and build moisture levels. Lightweight and non-greasy, it absorbs quickly into skin.

Skin is softer and smoother. Fine lines, wrinkles and other signs of aging are visibly reduced.

• Oil-free
• Non-comedogenic (won't clog pores)
• Hypoallergenic
• Fragrance-free"

What I say:
This is okay, and cheap for what it is, but it is not that great.  I originally bought this because of the Retinol that it has in it, since you can never be too young to start the fight against wrinkles, but have not found it to really do anything.

The scent is basically non-existent, to the point that I can't really remember if it has a scent (good enough for me, it has no scent!).  The texture is a little more soft than most creams that I have used (including La Mer, which I got a sample of once).  Actually, I prefer the texture of this to thicker creams, because it is so easy to spread.

I have never had a problem of clogged pores from this on my face, but I have gotten a couple on my neck, and can only assume this was the culprit.  Given that I have only gotten a few in the year that I have used it, though, I would say that it is indeed non-comedogenic.

Overall, decent, but not great.  I purchased it again because there was a buy one get one on Neutrogena skincare, and I was getting more of my cleanser.  I may or may not purchase again, depending on if I find a better night cream when I run out or not.

3.5/5

Clinique Moisture Surge Extended Thirst Relief

image from clinique.com

Price: $34 for 1.7oz, $46.50 for 2.5oz

What they say:
"Enjoy rapid refreshment and a full 12 hours of soothing moisture with an addictive by-a-waterfall feel. Advanced hydration boosters and a new botanical blend hold skin's moisture in balance through stressful shifts in humidity, indoors and out."

What I say:
I have combination skin, and this stuff is HG (holy grail, meaning cannot be without) for me.  It is a common mistake for people who have oilier skin to skip moisturizing or hydrating their skin, thinking that they don't need it.  You do, and your skin might be oily because you aren't hydrating it.

That said, this is a hydrator, not a moisturizer.  Use this under your moisturizer, or as a mask.  A little of this goes a long way, but I am still am already on my second jar (and already ordered a third).  I have been using it for months, and my face is clearer, less oily, and softer than it ever has been.

Give this a try; get a sample, buy it, anything, but you have to try this.  The worst that happens is you give it to your SO for their face (this is the only facial thing my husband will use.  He won't even use real facial wash).

Thing to note:  Do not get this at a CCO unless you are certain of its age!  I purchased one a couple months before I needed it at a CCO (Cosmetic Company Outlet, Estee Lauder's outlet store, which sells MAC, Bobbi Brown, Clinique, and other subbrands at a discount) since I was in the area, and don't get to go to a CCO often.  By the time I opened it, it was too late for an exchange, and the smell was off, like it had already gone bad.  20% off is not worth risking your face over.

And to give your an idea of how popular this stuff is, it sold out at Sephora's during their friends and family event in one day.  Both sizes.

5/5 HG