As a skincare editor, I’m constantly trying the buzziest new cleansers aiming to sweep skin clean without stripping. Two brands I keep coming back to are skin science stalwart Clinique […]
As a skincare editor, I’m constantly trying the buzziest new cleansers aiming to sweep skin clean without stripping. Two brands I keep coming back to are skin science stalwart Clinique and French pharmacy favorite La Roche-Posay. While both offer quality clean options for a range of skin types, differences arise in ingredients selected, special skin benefits and suitability.
Main Ingredients
Clinique cleansers focus on a mild, non-irritating surfactant base enriched with skin-calming ingredients like antioxidants, aloe and cucumber. La Roche-Posay’s cleansing headliners feature their hero ingredient thermal spring water plus nourishing pre + probiotics to retain moisture as they purify. So while Clinique aims to simply cleanse without riling skin, La Roche-Posay also visibly replenishes as it removes impurities.
Effectiveness
With thorough lab testing perfecting every formula, Clinique cleansers effectively yet gently refresh skin for a clean canvas, ideal even for sensitive skin. Meanwhile, La Roche-Posay purifying formulas go one step further by infusing skin with hydration, balance and glow that lasts beyond washing thanks to pre + probiotics that nourish microbiome skin barriers for improved protection.
Texture + Experience
With elegant gel creams to foamy foams, Clinique offers refined options catering to preference in cleansing experience. The Clarifying Lotion also provides refreshing toner-like cleansing sans dryness which I love for brisk stimulation any morning. La Roche-Posay cleansers have a similarly luxe, satisfying lather ideal for massaging stressed skin without stripping thanks to nourishing thermal spring water.
Best For…
Clinique covers all cleanser bases from deep pore cleansing clay masks to milky makeup removers, suiting most non-reactive skin types aside from extremely dry. While also catering to sensitivity, La Roche-Posay goes the extra mile to restore healthy microbiome balance, so is ideal for compromised, stressed complexions needing barrier repair and extra TLC as they cleanse.
Reviews
Clinique earns decades of praise for effectively cleaning skin without irritation or adverse effects short or long term thanks to pure, carefully-tested ingredients. Meanwhile, La Roche-Posay impresses fans with the transformative, healthy skin glow that emerges with continued use thanks to skin-balancing pre + probiotic action.
Pricing
As an esteemed dermatologist go-to brand, Clinique commands luxury brand prices. However, minimal ingredients and thorough testing ensure effective, responsible formulas catering to even the most sensitive skin. Meanwhile, La Roche-Posay cleansing formulas offer similar skin-replenishing benefits and indulgent experiences at more accessible drugstore price points by comparison.
No matter your primary goal – deep cleansing, gentle everyday refreshment, microbiome balance restoration – Clinique and La Roche-Posay offer optimal cleaner options minus adverse effects. Adding one of their expertly-crafted cleansers ensures skin that feels clean, calm, and healthy each day.