For women of a certain generation, ahem, Millennials, few products are as ingrained in our early beauty memory as Clinique’s Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel. It has a rich history and cultural significance that goes far beyond its formula. As I pull off the clear cap to the familiar bottle, I’m transported back to the department store beauty counters that I used to accompany my mom to, where she would point to the pale yellow moisturizer in the glass case and purchase them three at a time.
That distinctive translucent formula was my first glimpse into the world of “grown-up” skin care, a rite of passage that has been shared by countless others who graduated from drugstore moisturizers to this dermatologist-developed icon. The original Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion was created back in 1968, in partnership with New York dermatologist Dr. Norman Orentreich, who was a prolific researcher of skin care ingredients, according to the brand. The gel counterpart was introduced later for consumers with oiler skin types — like me — who found the original lotion too greasy.
Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Truly hydrating
- Absorbs quickly
- Doesn't combat super dry skin
Sizes: 1.7, 4.2 and 6.7 ounce sizes available | Key ingredients: Sunflower seed cake, barley extract, cucumber fruit extract, hyaluronic acid | Meant for: Combination, oily and sensitive skin
Why I tried the Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel
The Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel is an essential part of Clinique’s 3-Step-System of cleansing, exfoliating and hydrating, although today I use the gel as a standalone moisturizer. It is allergy-tested and fragrance-free and has a lightweight, non-oil-based gel vehicle to deliver hydration to the skin. With a focus on being suitable even for sensitive skin, the moisturizing gel is also free of parabens, phthalate, alcohol, soaps and other irritants. It is also non-acnegenic, which particularly benefits oily and combination types — like mine — that are prone to breaking out.
Why I like the Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel
The active ingredient is hyaluronic acid — which dermatologists have previously recommended to Shop TODAY — a moisture magnet that attracts and retains water on the skin’s surface.
When applied, the gel spreads and absorbs easily. After about 10 to 15 seconds, it dries down completely to a matte finish that creates a smooth base for applying makeup. Because the gel absorbs so well, it doesn’t cause pilling when other products are layered over it. The formula is simple with one goal: to hydrate. But it plays nicely with serums and other active ingredients, which — if you're like me and first watched your mother buy this brand in the 1990s — it's probably also part of your routine.
Over 2000 5-star reviews on Amazon report that the non-greasy formula hydrates without leaving a heavy or shiny residue, provides long-lasting moisturization and doesn’t cause any stinging or discomfort.
These days my bathroom shelf is crowded with the latest launches, but there is something comforting about the simplicity of this pale yellow moisturizer that still holds its own in a world of ever-changing beauty trends. It is as iconic today, as it was the first time my mom squirted some into her palms and gently rubbed it into my cheeks. Now, when I reach for it, it feels like a small daily connection to those first lessons in beauty and self-care, learned at my mom’s vanity all those years ago.
What to consider
The product does have its limitations. The Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel is formulated specifically for oily and combination skin, and according to the brand, it can provide up to eight hours of hydration. I would categorize my skin type as combination, and for the most part it is a good fit for me.
However, after an overzealous application of retinol last week paired with the changing seasons and yo-yo temperatures, I was left with a large and flaky patch of dry skin around my mouth. Seeing that I was in the midst of exclusively testing this product, I reached for the yellow bottle instinctively. While dermatologists have previously told Shop TODAY that hyaluronic acid products is great to apply before/after retinol, unfortunately, this lightweight gel was no match for my cracked and peeling skin. Ultimately it took a thick, occlusive balm to relieve the tightness.
More Clinique products to shop
Clinique Almost Lipstick in Black Honey
- Buildable shade
- Creamy texture
- Color can fade quickly
Size: 0.07 oz. | Key ingredient(s): Castor Seed Oil | Finish: Semi-glossy
Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm Makeup Remover
- Doesn't burn the eyes
- Washes away SPF, grime, more
- Non-stripping
- A little goes a long way
Sizes: 1, 3.8 and 6.7 ounce options available | Meant for: Normal, dry, combination and oily skin types | Key ingredient(s): Safflower seed oil
Clinique High Impact High-Fit Full Volume Mascara
- Non-clumping and smudge-proof
- Doesn't flake
- Made for sensitive eyes
- Only comes in black and brown
Shades: Black and brown | Made for: Sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers | Key ingredient(s): Coconut, argan, and moringa oils | Benefits: Non-flaking, smudge-proof, humidity and sweat-resistant, 12-hour wear
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Carolyn Hsu is an experienced beauty writer and expert with over 15 years of experience reporting on skin care, makeup, hair, celebrity trends, and treatments. She has been contributing to Shop Today since 2025 and has previously written for a number of publications. She has also appeared as an on-air beauty and shopping expert on several different stations. Carolyn graduated from the University of Washington.
