I don't know what it is exactly, so maybe I'll just blame the cold weather change for the havoc that's been wrought on my skin as of late. Naturally that has seen me rummaging through my drawers for some kind of solution to combat dryness and flakiness, as Neways Barrier Cream, by itself, is no longer intensive enough for the day as it is very light. Enter the Clinique 'Dream Team' - Dramatically Different Moisturising Lotion + and Moisture Surge Extended Thirst Relief.
The DDML+ is quite moisturising on its own, and I found it almost too emollient in warmer weather, though right now it's perfect. It's very lightweight but hydrating, and easily absorbed. A little goes a long way - a five-cent-sized blob was enough to cover my face and neck! I wouldn't describe it as having a gel texture, but it's a rather light sort of lotion. It's gentle on my sensitive skin and quite refreshing. I actually received mine as a sample through their Facebook giveaway last July. I like layering Moisture Surge on top as it locks the moisture in and acts almost as a barrier (more on that below).
The Moisture Surge is a light gel that I liken to a hydrating mask, in that it sets into almost a film once dried. When applied together, the duo work to provide hydration (DDML+) and keep that moisture in (MS). I generally don't use the Moisture Surge it on its own, because I found that the pair are better together (ngaww). But in all seriousness, I used Moisture Surge on its own while overseas and I found that it was fine for the humid weather as it absorbed quickly, but now that the weather's cooled down so significantly, I find myself reaching for the DDML+ by default, and sometimes layering Moisture Surge over it for extra hydration.
I tested them as both my night routine, and daycare. When applied overnight, I woke to find that my skin was comfortable, and the dry patches were smoother. I could still see and feel that they were there, but it was almost as if they had been covered by a film, so my face wasn't flaky. When applied in the morning, I discovered that the DDML+ became something like a primer, so that my base (Mecca Cosmetica In a Good Light) applied easily and smoothly over it without clinging to dry patches. It should be noted that In a Good Light is quite hydrating in itself (to the point of being somewhat greasy in humid weather), but can make dry areas more noticeable if applied over dry skin (rather than 'freshly moisturised' skin). 5+ hours later my base was still looking fresh and feeling comfortable, which I was quite impressed with - the drier weather seems to cause my skin to drink up moisturiser like crazy!
All in all, I was suitably impressed with this dynamic duo - I think they're fast becoming my Winter skincare essentials!
Have you tried this Clinique 'dream team' (or either of them on their own)?
Do you love 'em like I do? x
