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We are comparing Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel vs Clinique Moisture Surge Auto-Replenishing Hydrator, two moisturizing face creams in this article.
Before we delve into the comparison, though, we would like to briefly explain what moisturizers are. We believe it would help you get a clearer picture of the importance of these products.
Table of Contents
What Are Moisturizers?
Moisturizers are skincare products that lubricate, protect and hydrate the skin. Moisturizers also stop the skin from losing moisture by repairing the protective barrier. And they are especially necessary for people with dry, cracked or irritated skin.
The largest body organ is the skin and is naturally positioned to defend the body against UV rays, micro-organisms and pollution which are harmful to the body.
The skin becomes dehydrated when the moisture level goes below 10%. And to restore moisture to the skin, moisturizers work at trapping moisture in the skin or restoring the lost moisture.
Forms of Moisturizers
Moisturizers come in three forms: occlusives, emollients and humectants.
Occlusives build a defence above the skin to prevent water from escaping from the skin layers. Though not attractive due to their greasy nature, they are quite effective at reducing skin dryness. An easy example is Vaseline petroleum jelly.
Emollients are more appealing to the skin and cosmetically preferred above occlusives. This is because they are not greasy and they penetrate the skin, causing it to feel supple and soft. Examples are creams, gels, lotions, and ointments.
Humectants, on their own part, draw moisture to the skin and retain the moisture there. This is because of the presence of an oxygen and hydrogen atom in their chemical structure. They also stimulate the production of the natural waxy molecules in the body called ceramides.
These different types of moisturizers act in diverse ways to perform the same function. This function is to keep the skin hydrated and refreshed. There is no gainsaying the fact, therefore, that moisturizers are essential for the maintenance of healthy skin.
Comparison Overview – Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel vs Clinique Moisture Surge Auto-Replenishing Hydrator
As has been clearly established, Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel vs Clinique Moisture Surge Auto-Replenishing Hydrator share a quality – both products are moisturizers.
But that’s not all they have in common. Both of them are also facial moisturizers.
As for their differences, Clinique Hydrator is more hydrating than the Neutrogena Water Gel. A little of it goes a long way on the skin and it keeps hydrating beyond one day.
The replenishing mode of the Water Gel is not automatic. It takes reapplication to get it working again, unlike the Clinique Hydrator which works for up to 72 hours.
And of course, there is the ideal skin type for each one. While the Water Gel is ideal for normal/dry skin, the Hydrator is ideal for very dry/combination skin.
Conversely, a disadvantage the Hydrator has is that it is sold only in specialty stores. But the Water Gel, being a drug store product, can be bought at any store.
As we go on, we will explain the strengths, advantages and disadvantages of each face moisturizing cream in details. To understand what face creams really are, check out this article here.
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Price/Value Ratio – Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel vs Clinique Moisture Surge Auto-Replenishing Hydrator
Which of the two moisturizers offers more value for money?
Clinique Moisture Surge Auto-Replenishing Hydrator offers more value for money than Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel.
The reason is that a jar of the Clinique Hydrator lasts for a while because a little dollop goes a long way. Bear in mind that the Hydrator costs more than the Water Gel. The Neutrogena Water Gel does not last as long because it requires using more during each application to satisfy the skin.
However, the Water Gel is considered an affordable substitute for the Hydrator by some users.
Comparison Table – Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel vs Clinique Moisture Surge Auto-Replenishing Hydrator
Neutrogena Water Gel |
Clinique Moisture Surge |
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| Size/quantity | 1.7oz/48g | 1.7oz/50ml |
| Extra ingredients | 15 extra ingredients | 30 extra ingredients |
| Preservatives | Contains parabens | Paraben-free |
| Replenishing mode | Normal | Auto |
| Durability | 48 hours | 72 hours |
| Dye content | Dye-free | – |
| Color | Blue | Pink |
| Skin bias | All skin types with a bias for normal/dry skin | All skin types with a bias for extremely dry and combination skin |
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Video: Is the Neutrogena Water Gel a Good Substitute of the Clinique Hydrator?
The closeness of their effect as moisturizing creams has made many users swap one for the other. More times than not, the Water Gel is chosen over the Hydrator due to its affordability. But how good a substitute is it for the Hydrator?
This video explains if this substitution is a good one or not…
Which Is Better Under What Circumstance? – Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel vs Clinique Moisture Surge Auto-Replenishing Hydrator
Neutrogena Water Gel |
Clinique Hydrator |
| This product is highly recommended for those with normal-dry skin and oily skin. This is because the moisturizer does not hydrate as much as the Clinique Hydrator, and it dries up fast. | If you have extremely dry skin and a combined dry skin type, this product will be good for you. It hydrates well and leaves the skin supple. It removes flakiness, fine lines and the tightness that are associated with intensely dry skin. |
| Those that are operating on really tight budgets will find this product helpful. Though classified as a good moisturizer, it is cheaper than Clinique Hydrator by a pretty wide margin. | Though quite pricey, it is worth it as a high-end product. Therefore, if you like quality, class and can roll out the cash, then this product is good for you. |
| If you are living in areas with very dry weather or during winter, this might not be your preferred choice. | For winter and people living in areas with dry weather conditions, this product will be highly recommended. |
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Common Features – Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel vs Clinique Moisture Surge Auto-Replenishing Hydrator
The following are the common features between Neutrogena Water Gel and Clinique Hydrator:
- Oil content
- Non-comedogenic properties
- Dermatologically tested
- Fragrance-free
- Fast absorption rate
- Packaging
- Weight
- Skin bias
- Excellent hydration
- Durability
Oil Content
Most oils do not moisturize. Usually, they act as occlusives, skin barriers that keep moisture in. This way, the skin stays soft and hydrated all through the day.
But this is only in a case where the oil is used separately, not in a moisturizing gel or cream. Oils can clog the pores of the skin when it seals it by covering the topmost layer.
Therefore, the absence of oil in Neutrogena Water Gel and Clinique Hydrator simply helps them perform optimally. It also helps to avoid breakouts caused by clogging of the pores.
Non-comedogenic Properties
The two products are non-comedogenic. This means they do not clog the pores of the skin. The humectants and emollients present in the products help the pores to remain open.
They draw water from the air, cream or gel into the skin, hydrating the cells of the skin. Emollients make the skin soft and supple in order to remain hydrated.
Dermatologically-tested
A dermatologically-tested product is proof that the product is clinically proven to be fit for the skin. This is true for the moisturizers being compared.
Different factors are taken into consideration. Some of them are the presence of harmful ingredients and the type of preservatives used, as well as the amounts of ingredients used.
Thus, this examination ensures that ingredients are used in the right quantity, and are certified safe for use. This is one factor that will create confident patronage.
Fragrance-free
Fragrances are good but can cause irritation on the skin. Be it synthetic or natural, fragrances are common ingredients that sensitize the skin. This is because they convey scent through an explosive reaction. Even though this reaction is natural, it could cause negative reactions on the skin.
The effects are not clearly evident on a short term, but on the long run. This could be the basis on which fragrances were excluded from these products.
Fast Absorption Rate
Both the Water Gel and the Hydrator get easily absorbed into the skin. One of the advantages of this is that it makes the products easy to use under makeup.
The Water Gel has the ability to get absorbed quicker than the Hydrator, though. This could be attributed to its water-gel consistency.
Packaging
Appearance is really an important promotional tool in any business. The packaging says a lot about any product, expensive or cheap.
The Water Gel and the Hydrator come in jars. Packaging a skincare product in a jar is not the preferred way for may enthusiasts. For them, it is not hygienic to have to constantly dip fingers into it.
However, the packaging for these products doesn’t make for easy breakage as they are sturdy.
Lightweight
The lightness of a skincare product is always a plus, especially when it is something you have to use constantly. Both the Water Gel and the Hydrator are lightweight moisturizers. Their weight could be due to the absence of oil and being water-based. Whatever the reason, it is good news for the skin.
Skin Bias
Neutrogena Water Gel and Clinique Hydrator are both certified fit for all skin types. Through usage, some have realized that the water gel works better on normal/dry skin. And the Hydrator is more ideal for extremely dry skin due to its double hydrating quality.
Excellent Hydration
Moisturizers are all about hydrating the skin. This would remove flakiness, fine lines and dryness. The presence of hyaluronic acid in both moisturizers makes this possible.
Hyaluronic acid has the ability to carry about a thousand times its weight in water. Even though it occurs naturally in the human skin, it could get depleted and need replenishing. Hence, its inclusion in many skincare products, including the ones under comparison.
Durability
Neutrogena Water Gel and Clinique Hydrator stay functional in the skin long after the face has been washed.
In the case of the Hydrator, it remains functional for 72 hours. And Neutrogena Water Gel can remain active in the skin for 48 hours.
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Unique Features – Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel vs Clinique Moisture Surge Auto-Replenishing Hydrator
Here is a list of the unique features each moisturizer has:
- Presence of Dye
- Parabens
Now, let us discuss them in details.
Neutrogena Water Gel contains dye. The implication is that the chemicals that are associated with artificial colors are present in this product.
The chemicals can release toxins into your skin which have the tendency to clog pores and cause acne, irritation and sensitivity.
The Water Gel also contains paraben. Parabens are chemical preservatives which have long been used to prevent the development of bacteria and mould. These extend the shelf life of many cosmetic and health products.
It is believed to be dangerous to the body because it can interrupt hormonal functions by imitating estrogen. It can also activate a rise in tumour growth and division of the breast cell.
On the other hand, Clinique Hydrator does not contain any dye and is paraben-free. Therefore, it is less likely to cause any negative reaction than Neutrogena Water Gel.
Check out these other interesting comparison articles:
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Maybelline Fit Me Concealer Light vs Fair – Which Do You Prefer?
Clinique 7-Day Scrub vs Exfoliating Scrub – Extensive Comparison
Clinique Clarifying Lotion 2 vs 3 — Which Should You Buy?
Jergens Natural Glow vs L’Oreal Paris Sublime Glow Moisturizers – Detailed Comparison
Unique Pros – Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel vs Clinique Moisture Surge Auto-Replenishing Hydrator
Unique Pros of the Neutrogena Water Gel
Which of the Facial Moisturizers Costs Less: Neutrogena Water Gel or Clinique Hydrator?
Neutrogena Water Gel costs less than the Clinique Hydrator. If you are looking for a moisturizer that does not cost so much, particularly for those under budget, the Neutrogena Water Gel is good for you.
Which of the Facial Moisturizers Is More Readily Available: Neutrogena Water Gel or Clinique Hydrator?
Neutrogena Water Gel is more readily available than Clinique Hydrator. It is a drugstore product. This means you can walk into any beauty shop around you and buy one.
Unique Pros of the Clinique Moisture Surge Hydrator
Which of the Facial Moisturizers Gives More Hydration: Neutrogena Water Gel or Clinique Hydrator?
Clinique Hydrator gives more hydration than Neutrogena Water Gel. It provides none stop hydration for 72 hours even after washing the face. This works with the activated aloe water and a creation of its own internal supply of moisture.
Which of the Facial Moisturizers Provides Double Hydration: Neutrogena Water Gel or Clinique Hydrator?
Clinique Hydrator provides double hydration. It does this with its oasis technology. This plays a vital role in holding and protecting the moisture on the face and the moisture-holding matrix. This is very important in preventing dehydration.
Which of the Facial Moisturizers Contain no Preservatives or Dyes: Neutrogena Water Gel or Clinique Hydrator?
Clinique Hydrator contains no preservatives or dyes. The non-inclusion of these chemicals in the formula helps to avoid skin irritation.
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Video: Non-Stop Hydration for 72 Hours
It sounds like it is impossible but the Clinique Hydrator keeps replenishing moisture for up to 72 hours. Within the skin, it needs no reapplication but automatically replenishes. Imagine the results when you regularly apply it.
To understand how this works, watch the video below…
Unique Cons – Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel vs Clinique Moisture Surge Auto-Replenishing Hydrator
Unique Cons of the Neutrogena Water Gel
i. Drugstore products usually don’t cost much, but not Neutrogena Water Gel. It is considered quite pricey for a drug store product.
ii. Quite a number of users of the Neutrogena Water Gel have complained of breakouts.
iii. The inclusion of dye may not go down well with a lot of people, particularly people with sensitive skin types.
Unique Cons of the Clinique Moisture Surge Hydrator
i. It is not quite as affordable as the Water Gel.
ii. As with almost all high-end products, the Clinique Hydrator is not easily accessible. It can only be found in specialty and big stores.
Common Pros – Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel vs Clinique Moisture Surge Auto-Replenishing Hydrator
Neutrogena Water Gel |
Clinique Hydrator
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| Oil-free | The absence of oil in this product guarantees a non-sticky and non-greasy feel on the skin. | The same applies to the Hydrator. |
| Non-comedogenic | This will prevent clogging of pores, acne and scarring. | Likewise, it does not clog the pores. |
| Dermatologically-tested | Having the Neutrogena Water Gel reviewed by a Dermatologist is proof that the product is fit for use. | In the same vein, the Hydrator has been dermatologically-tested. |
| Fragrance-free | The absence of fragrance means of a better chance of not causing adverse reactions. | Similarly, this option has no fragrance. |
| Absorption Rate | The fast absorption rate makes it suitable to be used under makeup. | The Hydrator equally absorbs fast. |
| Packaging | It comes in a sturdy jar. | The same is applicable to this product. |
| Lightweight | What’s more, the moisturizer is lightweight on the skin. | It is also light on the skin. |
| Skin Suitability | The Neutrogena Water Gel is formulated for all skin types. | Same as the Hydrator though it has a bias for extremely dry skin. |
| Excellent Hydration | The Water Gel hydrates so well that dry skins receive visible boost within just a short period of use. | Same as Clinique Hydrator but with double hydrating power. |
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Video: Water-base and Hyaluronic Acid – Too Much Water?
Considering that the Neutrogena Water Gel is made up mostly of water, is there further need for hyaluronic acid? Yes, there is especially if the user has dry skin.
The effects don’t wear off immediately; they are long-lasting. The combination helps store water up in the skin to help it withstand the day’s environmental pollution.
Find out how this works from the video…
Common Cons – Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel vs Clinique Moisture Surge Auto-Replenishing Hydrator
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel |
Clinique Moisture Surge |
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| Pretty Expensive
Container |
This product is quite pricey for a drug store product.
The plastic container seems to be a problem for some clients because they feel it is a bit deep. Continually putting the finger into it may not be hygienic. It is also a contributing factor to the loss of product potency. |
The Clinique Hydrator is a high-end product, therefore it is quite pricey.
The plastic container seems to be a problem as some people complained that it loses its potency as it stays longer because the container does not preserve it well. |
Users’ Feeling about Both Products
Neutrogena Water GelA lot of users seem to agree that the price of the Neutrogena Water Gel is very reasonable, offering good value for money. They also agree it makes the skin smooth and soft, with its olive extract feature offering protection, moisture and anti-oxidizing qualities. This leaves the skin smooth and tender. But the breakout it has the tendency to cause was annoying to users who reacted to it. |
Clinique Hydrator
Its ability to keep the face moisturized especially during periods like winter was well appreciated. Customers rarely complained about having breakouts of acne or pimples when using the Clinique Hydrator. However, the price was a let-down, as some users felt they could get the same benefits from less expensive products.
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Our Take – Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel vs Clinique Moisture Surge Auto-Replenishing Hydrator
The Neutrogena Water Gel is a good dupe for the Clinique Hydrator. It does not hydrate as deeply but it gets the job done. Besides, those with extremely dry skin do find relief with it. And it is not as expensive so is a good fit for everyone.
Yes, we would recommend it as a standalone or to complement the Clinique Hydrator, to cut down spending.
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Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel vs Clinique Moisture Surge Auto-Replenishing Hydrator – FAQs
Does Clinique Moisture Surge Contain Hyaluronic Acid?
Clinique Moisture Surge Auto-Replenishing Hydrator contains hyaluronic acid. Actually, it contains two types of this important acid. One type goes deep into the skin to hydrate those deep skin layers. The other hydrates the top layers of the skin.
Hyaluronic acid is present naturally in the human body. Able to hold one thousand times its weight in water, the acid draws water to your skin and keeps it from escaping. This is one of the main ingredients that make the Clinique Hydrator what it is.
Is Clinique 72 Hour Moisture Surge a Moisturizer?
Clinique Moisture Surge 72 Hour Auto-Replenishing Hydrator is a moisturizer. The Hydrator is one of the most intense and deeply hydrating facial moisturizers available. It boosts the skin’s look and feel almost immediately after applying it.
Right now, the Hydrator delivers much more hydration at the end of the day than it used to deliver. Plus its ability to create its own internal water source keeps it effectively hydrating the skin for about 3 days.
It is one of the most effective moisturizers you can find.
Is Neutrogena Hydro Boost for Day or Night?
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel is for both day and night time use. Its deep hydrating power keeps the skin fresh and dewy throughout the day, without any dryness. At night, it works even better because there is no exertion and no external stimulus to interfere with its process.
Skincare products generally work best at night because they have time to work. The skin also tends to absorb most of the products, losing little or nothing to the environment. Neutrogena Water Gel is no different. You will get more from it when you use it two times every day.
Can I Use Clinique Moisture Surge Every Day?
You can use Clinique Moisture Surge 72 Hour Auto-Replenishing Hydrator every day. It has the consistency of a gel so contains more water than oil. This makes application and absorption easy and almost instant. Add the fact that it is gentle on the skin and you know you can use it daily.
Clinique Hydrator will work maximally when you use it every day. Be it once or twice daily, its moisture replenishing power will keep your skin moisturized and hydrated round the clock. So your skin will experience no dry spells, even in the driest seasons or climes.
Does Neutrogena Hydro Boost Clog Pores?
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel does not clog pores. It is specially made to be non-comedogenic, meaning it does not contain ingredients that have the tendency to clog pores. It is also oil-free so it does not sit densely on the skin.
The Water Gel’s gel-like consistency boosts its ability to be easily and quickly absorbed, further establishing the fact that it does not clog pores.
However, it does contain dye. This could cause irritation for those who are allergic to dyes.
Does Neutrogena Hydro Boost Help with Acne?
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel helps with acne. It is non-comedogenic and contains no oil. So it does not clog the pores of the skin or stop the skin from breathing. These two are part of the causes of acne.
However, it builds moisture in the skin. When the skin is well-hydrated, it does not feel the need to produce more oil in order to ward off dryness. And when the production of oil or sebum in the skin is reduced, the chances of a breakout of acne occurring are reduced.
