I put Trader Joe's $9 and Clinique's $60 gel moisturizer to the test, and I'd only buy the dupe again

Trader Joe's has a moisturizer that's similar to a popular Clinique product.Jen Glantz

• I tried Trader Joe's $9 moisturizer that's supposed to be a dupe for Clinique's $60 Moisture Surge.
• I had minor issues with both products, but it's hard to ignore the price difference.

I've had acne-prone skin since I was 11, so I've always had a minimalist skin-care routine. I avoid wearing thick layers of makeup, and I wash my face once a day and keep it bare as often as possible.

But now that I'm 35, I'm noticing my skin is more dry than usual, and it's easier to see my acne scars, fine lines, and wrinkles. I think it's about time to start adding a moisturizer to my routine.

I tested out two similar moisturizers at different price points: Clinique's Moisture Surge moisturizer ($60 for 2.5 ounces) and Trader Joe's ultra-hydrating gel moisturizer ($9 for 2.5 ounces). They're both gel formulas featuring hydrating ingredients like aloe, hyaluronic acid, and antioxidants.

Here's how they stacked up.