A total makeup novice with no idea where to start, my second attendant recommended Clinique.

She had glam down patwaybefore YouTube’s GRWM era, so I trusted her.

I went to the mall and left with the Even Better Foundation and Sheer Pressed Powder.

Essence Gant holding Clinique cleanser

Essence Gant

In grad school, a year later, I also started using their three-step skincare system.

Take The Day Off is incredibly gentle, removing all traces of my mascara, lipstick, and foundation.

I can’t justify that price tag when more affordable drugstore options are just as effective.

Essence Gant using Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm

Essence Gant

But if you like to stick with one brand across all your skincare products, I’d recommend it.

Fortunately, the Liquid Facial Soap won’t set me back too much.

A bonus is that you don’t need a lot.

Essence Gant using Clinique’s all about clean liquid facial soap

Essence Gant

One little squirt lathers my entire face and neck.

Clarifying Lotion 3

The Clarifying Lotion is your toning step.

This product also comes in multiple formulas based on varying skin types.

Essence Gant after applying Clinique Clarifying Lotion toner

Essence Gant

Thetonerhelps to sweep away any remaining dirt or cleanser.

you could use a cotton ball, but I usually use my hands, sweeping it upward.

Because it’s exfoliating, it also minimizes the appearance of pores and prevents breakouts.

Essence Gant applying Clinique Moisture Surge Active Glow Serum

Essence Gant

In a word, my skin looks and feels healthy whenever I use this product.

Aloe bioferment and hyaluronic acid work overtime to add moisture and maintain it.

It’s also incredibly soothing.

Essence Gant applying Clinique Moisture Surge 100H Auto-Replenishing Hydrator

Essence Gant

While I now prefer Moisture Surge, this moisturizer is still a good, effective option.

It’s a tad heavier and absorbs quickly into the skin upon program, making it ideal fordry skintypes.

There is a faint fragrance; nothing offputting, but it’s noticeable.

Essence Gant applying swatch of Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion

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Even Better All-Over Concealer + Eraser

This is my first time trying any Clinique concealer.

A simple, no-fuss product, the Even Better All-Over Concealer + Eraser was easy to use.

Before system, my eyes were visibly tired with bags.

Essence Gant after applying Clinique Even Better All-Over Concealer + Eraser

Essence Gant

The concealer greatly minimized the puffiness and made my eyes look more lively.

Although it’s full-coverage, the formula is lightweight with a natural finish.

Another major pro is that it’s not cakey and easy to blend and set without creasing.

Essence Gant applying Clinique Pop Lip + Cheek Oil in Black Honey to her cheek

I love how this trio gives you a little coverage andzhuzhwith minimum effort.

I love the versatility and glossy finish.

It makes my cheeks look dewy, and my lips look juicy.

Essence Gant in Clinique Even Better Makeup Foundation SPF 15

Essence Gant

It’s also very nourishing, keeping my lips soft and nourished.

The tint is versatile and great for every day.

It is a constant in my purse.

Essence Gant in Clinique Pop Longwear Lipstick Shade Pow Pop

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This foundation is lightweight but still provides me with the perfect amount of coverage.

Pop Longwear Lipstick

Pop Longwear couldn’t be a more appropriate name for this lipstick.

The collection comes in matte, satin, and shine finishes, and the pigment packs a major punch.

Essence Gant in Clinique High Impact High-Fi Full Volume Mascara

Essence Gant

I particularly love the shade Pow Pop.

Pow Pop is a matte finish that glides on the lips very smoothly and doesn’t feel dry.

I also appreciate that it lasts for hours before a touchup is needed.

Essence Gant in Clinique Almost Lipstick

Essence Gant

The sheer, lightweight formula has a subtle, shiny finish and feels soft on the lips.