I put Trader Joe's $9 gel-moisturizer dupe to the test. I'm never spending $60 on Clinique again.

Jen GlantzSep 26, 2024, 01:11 IST

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 skincare 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 in my 30s, I'm noticing my skin is dryer 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.

Clinique's moisturizer looked and felt very sheer.

I bought a smaller jar to test out Clinique's moisturizer since it was so expensive. Jen Glantz

My makeup looked the same, but my skin felt different.

I didn't have any issues applying makeup over the Clinique product.Jen Glantz

The moisturizer was hydrating, but it wasn't my favorite.

My sensitive skin doesn't always react well when I try new products. Jen Glantz

Trader Joe's product was heavier than I expected.

Trader Joe's product is much cheaper than the high-end brand. Jen Glantz

My skin felt heavy with makeup on.

I didn't love how the Trader Joe's product felt under makeup. Jen Glantz

The moisturizer didn't irritate my skin.

I was happy that my skin seemed to like the cheaper product. Jen Glantz

One moisturizer was superior for me and my skin.

I found myself coming back to the Trader Joe's product. Jen Glantz

I ordered the same burrito from Chipotle and Qdoba. They cost about the same, but the difference in quality was astounding.

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