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Product Comparison

Here's our complete breakdown comparing the ingredients, attributes, and more of Clinique Even Better Clinical™ Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter versus Clinique Smart™ Custom-Repair Serum .

Published on March 24, 2021

Overview

What they are

These products are both reef safe serums. They have a total of 40 ingredients in common

Cool Features

They both contain BHA, exfoliants, hyaluronic acid, Vitamin C and Vitamin E

Suited For

They're both likely to be good for fighting acne, anti aging, dry skin, brightening skin, oily skin, reducing pores, scar healing, dark spots and better texture

Free From

They both do not contain any harsh alcohols, common allergens, oils, parabens or sulfates

What's Inside

They both contain fragrances and silicones

We independently verify ingredients, and our claims are backed by peer-reviewed research. Spot a product that need an update? Let us know.

Serum American Brand United States
Serum American Brand United States

Serum

Serums are highly concentrated with ingredients to provide skin with benefits. They should be used after cleansing and before moisturizing.

Serum

Serums are highly concentrated with ingredients to provide skin with benefits. They should be used after cleansing and before moisturizing.

Price

Shop

Buy Even Better Clinical™ Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter

Starts at $45.80
Shop

Buy Smart™ Custom-Repair Serum

Starts at $49.70

Ingredient Info

Click any item below to learn more and view relevant ingredients.
alcohol-free
silicon-free
fragrance-free
sulfate-free
paraben-free
oil-free
fungal-acne safe
reef-safe
eu-allergen-free
vegan
cruelty-free
alcohol-free
silicon-free
fragrance-free
sulfate-free
paraben-free
oil-free
fungal-acne safe
reef-safe
eu-allergen-free
vegan
cruelty-free

At a glance

Click on any of the items below to learn more

Notable Ingredients

BHA
Vitamin C
Vitamin E
Exfoliators
Hyaluronic Acid

Benefits

Hydrating (2)
Good For Oily Skin
Redness Reducing (3)
Reduces Irritation
Skin Texture
Reduces Large Pores (2)
Anti-Aging (2)
Dark Spots
Scar Healing (3)
Acne Fighting (2)
Brightening (3)

Concerns

Drying
May Worsen Oily Skin
Irritating
Rosacea
Eczema

Notable Ingredients

BHA
Vitamin C (2)
Vitamin E
Exfoliators (2)
Hyaluronic Acid
Peptides (3)

Benefits

Hydrating (3)
Good For Oily Skin
Redness Reducing (3)
Skin Texture (2)
Reduces Large Pores
Anti-Aging (2)
Dark Spots (2)
Scar Healing (3)
Acne Fighting
Brightening (4)

Concerns

Drying
May Worsen Oily Skin (2)
Irritating
Rosacea
Eczema
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Ingredients Compared

Ingredients that are highlighted in purple are present in both products.

WaterIsododecaneDimethiconeCyclopentasiloxanePolysilicone-11Butylene GlycolAscorbyl GlucosidePeg-10 DimethiconePeg-6Citrus Grandis Peel ExtractMorus Nigra Root ExtractHordeum Vulgare ExtractScutellaria Baicalensis Root ExtractCucumis Sativus Fruit ExtractHydrolyzed Rice Bran ExtractGentiana Lutea Root ExtractAlgae ExtractPlankton ExtractVitis Vinifera Fruit ExtractSigesbeckia Orientalis Extract Triticum Vulgare Germ ExtractGlycerinOryza Sativa Bran ExtractYeast ExtractAcetyl Hexapeptide-8Palmitoyl OligopeptideErgothioneineWhey ProteinPolysorbate 20Micrococcus LysateCholesterolDi-C12-18 Alkyl Dimonium ChlorideSalicylic AcidIsohexadecanePropylene Glycol DicaprateHelianthus Annuus SeedcakeCaffeineGlycine Soja ProteinTocopheryl AcetateAcetyl GlucosamineCaprylyl GlycolGlyceryl PolymethacrylateDimethoxytolyl PropylresorcinolSynthetic FluorphlogopiteGlycyrrhetinic AcidTromethaminePolysorbate 80Sodium HyaluronateSodium RnaSqualaneAminopropyl Ascorbyl PhosphateAmmonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Vp CopolymerPeg-8LecithinHexylene GlycolAcrylamide/Sodium Acryloyldimethyltaurate CopolymerSodium HydroxideTin OxideDisodium EDTAPhenoxyethanolCI 19140CI 14700CI 77891Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12Calcium ChlorideSea Whip Extract

Ingredients Side-by-side

Ingredients that are highlighted in purple are present in both products.

Learn more about what what Com. / Irr. ratings are

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Ingredients Explained

These ingredients are found in both products.

Ingredients higher up in an ingredient list are typically present in a larger amount.

1
What it does: Skin Conditioning, Solvent
Community Rating: Loved

Water. It's the most common cosmetic ingredient of all. You'll usually see it at the top of ingredient lists, meaning that it makes up the largest part of the product.

So why is it so popular? Water most often acts as a solvent - this means that it helps dissolve other ingredients into the formulation.

You'll also recognize water as that liquid we all need to stay alive. Talk about multi-purpose! If you see this, drink a glass of water. Stay hydrated!

Learn more about Water

Clinique Even Better Clinical™ Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter contains this as ingredient number 1.

Clinique Smart™ Custom-Repair Serum contains this as ingredient number 1.

2
What it does: Emollient, Skin Conditioning, Solvent
Community Rating: Disliked

Cyclopentasiloxane is a silicone used to improve texture and trap moisture. An easier name for this is D5.

D5 is considered lightweight and volatile. Volatile means it evaporates quickly after application. Once evaporated, D5 leaves a thin barrier that helps keep skin hydrated.

D5 is an emollient. Emollients help soften the skin and prevent water loss. Silicones create a silky texture in products. D5 helps other ingredients become more spreadable.

Studies show D5 is safe to use in skincare products. We recommend speaking with a skincare professional if you have concerns.

Learn more about Cyclopentasiloxane

Clinique Even Better Clinical™ Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter contains this as ingredient number 2.

Clinique Smart™ Custom-Repair Serum contains this as ingredient number 4.

3
What it does: Emollient, Skin Conditioning, Skin Protecting
Community Rating: Very Disliked

Dimethicone is a silicone used for making products smooth and silky. It also has the added benefit of sealing in hydration. The amount of dimethicone found in beauty products is considered safe and non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog pores.

Dimethicone has been found increase absorption in skin, boosting the benefits of other ingredients. While there is concern for the safety of dimethicone, the levels used in skincare are safe for use.

Clinique Even Better Clinical™ Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter contains this as ingredient number 3.

Clinique Smart™ Custom-Repair Serum contains this as ingredient number 3.

4
What it does:
Community Rating: Disliked

We don't have a description for Polysilicone-11.

Clinique Even Better Clinical™ Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter contains this as ingredient number 4.

Clinique Smart™ Custom-Repair Serum contains this as ingredient number 5.

5
What it does: Emollient, Solvent
Community Rating: Disliked

Isododecane is a fragrance, emollient, and solvent.

As an emollient, it helps your skin stay soft and hydrated. Emollients help trap moisture into your skin.

Isododecane's role as a solvent makes it a great texture enhancer. It spreads smoothly on skin and does not leave a sticky feeling behind. Isododecane also helps prevent color transfer in makeup products.

Isododecane is not absorbed into skin.

Learn more about Isododecane

Clinique Even Better Clinical™ Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter contains this as ingredient number 5.

Clinique Smart™ Custom-Repair Serum contains this as ingredient number 2.

6
What it does: Humectant, Masking, Skin Conditioning, Solvent
Community Rating: Mixed

Butylene Glycol (or BG) is used within cosmetic products for a few different reasons:

  • It is a solvent, meaning that it helps to dissolve other ingredients. This also enhances the absorption of the product into one's skin.
  • It is a humectant, which means that it helps attract moisture into the skin.
  • It helps improve product application.

Overall, Butylene Glycol is a safe and well-rounded ingredient. It is unlikely to irritate skin, and works well with pretty much all other ingredients.

Clinique Even Better Clinical™ Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter contains this as ingredient number 6.

Clinique Smart™ Custom-Repair Serum contains this as ingredient number 6.

7
What it does: Antioxidant
Community Rating: Liked

Ascorbyl Glucoside is a stable form of Vitamin C. It is created by combining glucose from starch.

When applied to skin, Ascorbyl Glucoside turns into Ascorbic Acid.

Ascorbyl Glucoside is an antioxidant. Antioxidants help fight free-radicals, or molecules that may damage skin cells.

It can help to reduce redness, improve skin texture, reduce the effects of aging, reduce the visibility of dark spots, and brighten skin.

Read more about other types of Vitamin C:

Learn more about Ascorbyl Glucoside

Clinique Even Better Clinical™ Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter contains this as ingredient number 7.

Clinique Smart™ Custom-Repair Serum contains this as ingredient number 7.

8
What it does: Skin Conditioning
Community Rating: Very Disliked

Peg-10 Dimethicone is silicone with conditioner and emulsifier properties. It mostly acts as an emollient in skincare and and humectant in haircare.

According to the manufacturer, acidic formulations decrease the stability of this ingredient. It works best in neutral or near neutral formulations.

Clinique Even Better Clinical™ Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter contains this as ingredient number 8.

Clinique Smart™ Custom-Repair Serum contains this as ingredient number 8.

9
What it does: Humectant, Solvent

We don't have a description for Peg-6.

Clinique Even Better Clinical™ Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter contains this as ingredient number 9.

Clinique Smart™ Custom-Repair Serum contains this as ingredient number 9.

10
What it does: Astringent, Humectant, Soothing
Community Rating: Loved

Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract comes from the Baikal skullcap or Chinese skullcap plant. This plant is native to Northeast Asia and can be found in China, Mongolia, Korea, and Siberia.

In cosmetics, Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract provides antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. This is due to the flavonoid composition of Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract.

In Chinese traditional folk medicine, Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract is used to help treat lung and hypertension.

Learn more about Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract

Clinique Even Better Clinical™ Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter contains this as ingredient number 11.

Clinique Smart™ Custom-Repair Serum contains this as ingredient number 13.

11
What it does: Emollient, Skin Conditioning
Community Rating: Liked

Cucumis Sativus Fruit Extract comes from the cucumber. Cucumis Sativus is native to South Asia and can now be found on every continent.

Cucumbers are mostly made up of water (95%), and the other 5% is composed of: vitamin C, caffeic acid, fatty acids, amino acids, and other minerals.

Cucumbers have anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, and hydrating properties.

Vitamin C and Caffeic acid are potent antioxidants that may help with anti-aging. Antioxidants help neutralize free-radical molecules, or unstable molecules that may damage our skin cells and DNA.

Cucumbers contain shikimate dehydrigenase, an enzyme shown to help reduce inflammation and soothe the skin. The amino acids help nourish our skin's natural acid mantle. Our acid mantle is formed from the mixing of sebum and sweat. This slightly acidic film acts as a barrier to protect us from bacteria, viruses, and other contaminants.

Unless you have an allergy to cucumbers, it is generally a non-irritating ingredient.

Learn more about Cucumis Sativus Fruit Extract

Clinique Even Better Clinical™ Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter contains this as ingredient number 13.

Clinique Smart™ Custom-Repair Serum contains this as ingredient number 14.

12
What it does: Emollient, Skin Conditioning

We don't have a description for Hordeum Vulgare Extract.

Clinique Even Better Clinical™ Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter contains this as ingredient number 15.

Clinique Smart™ Custom-Repair Serum contains this as ingredient number 12.

13
What it does: Masking, Preservative, Skin Conditioning
Community Rating: Liked

Salicylic Acid (also known as beta hydroxy acid or BHA) is one of the most well-known ingredients for treating skin that struggles with blackheads and acne. It helps to exfoliate both the skin's surface and pores, and also acts as an anti-inflammatory agent.

This multitasking property makes it a great ingredient for cleaning out pores, controlling oil production, and reducing inflammation.

Unlike AHAs which are water soluble, Salicylic Acid is oil soluble. This means that it's able to exfoliate the inside of pores and reduce blackheads.

Concentrations of 0.5-2% are recognized by the U.S. FDA as an over-the-counter topical acne product.

It can cause irritation and/or dryness if one's skin already has a compromised moisture barrier, so it's best to focus on repairing that before introducing a Salicylic Acid into your routine.

In general, Salicylic Acid is a great ingredient for oily acne-prone skin.

While salicylic acid does not increase sun-sensitivity, we still recommend wearing SPF.

If you are looking for the ingredient called BHA or Butylated Hydroxyanisole, click here.

Learn more about Salicylic Acid

Clinique Even Better Clinical™ Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter contains this as ingredient number 16.

Clinique Smart™ Custom-Repair Serum contains this as ingredient number 33.

14
What it does: Skin Conditioning, Skin Protecting
Community Rating: Liked

This ingredient is extracted from the germ part of the wheat plant. The germ of a plant refers to the seed embryo, or part that sprouts into a new plant.

Some studies have found wheat germ to help with wound healing.

Clinique Even Better Clinical™ Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter contains this as ingredient number 17.

Clinique Smart™ Custom-Repair Serum contains this as ingredient number 21.

15
What it does: Emollient, Emulsifying, Skin Conditioning, Stabilising
Community Rating: Liked

Cholesterol is a class of organic molecules called lipids. It helps hydrate your skin and is essential to having a healthy skin barrier.

Our skin naturally contains cholesterol in the outermost layer. Besides cholesterol, it also contains ceramides and fatty acids. Cholesterol makes up about 1/4 of your skin's outer layer and barrier. Your skin barrier is responsible for keeping allergens and microbes out. Having a healthy skin barrier is also responsible for keeping your skin firm and plump.

Our bodies use cholestrol to create vitamin D, steroid hormones, and more.

Learn more about Cholesterol

Clinique Even Better Clinical™ Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter contains this as ingredient number 18.

Clinique Smart™ Custom-Repair Serum contains this as ingredient number 31.

16
What it does: Skin Conditioning, Skin Protecting
Community Rating: Loved

Oryza Sativa Bran Extract comes from the outer layer of a rice kernel. It is a byproduct of milling rice, or the operation to produce a whole grain rice product.

Oryza Sativa Bran Extract is moisturizing. This is due to its components of polysaccharides and omega-3 fatty acids. It also contains calcium, selenium, phosphorus, iron, and zinc.

Oryza Sativa Bran Extract contains numerous antioxidants such as ferulic acid. Antioxidants help fight free-radical molecules. Free-radical molecules are capable of damaging our cells and other genetic material.

Learn more about Oryza Sativa Bran Extract

Clinique Even Better Clinical™ Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter contains this as ingredient number 19.

Clinique Smart™ Custom-Repair Serum contains this as ingredient number 23.

17
What it does: Emollient, Skin Conditioning
Community Rating: Loved

Squalane is an emollient that helps the skin hold onto moisture. It's an oily liquid that occurs naturally in certain types of fish and plant oils.

Because squalane boosts hydration in the skin, it also comes with plenty of benefits: it is an antioxidant and can help fight free radicals and skin damage. Squalane is also found to have a detoxifying effect when applied.

Squalane comes from squalene, which occurs naturally within the sebum of our skin. It is one of the oils our skin produces to keep itself hydrated. Squalane is the hydrogenated version of squalene and has a longer shelf life.

Research shows that squalane is non-irritating (even at 100% concentration).

In general, it's a fantastic ingredient. It does a great job at hydrating the skin, and it's suitable for those with sensitive skin.

The source of squalane may impact malassezia / fungal acne. This is because olive oil derived squalane can contain impurities such as fatty acids and plant waxes. Sugarcane derived squalane is recommended for anyone with malassezia concerns.

Is squalane vegan? This depends on the source. Squalane can be derived from both plants and animals. Most squalane used in skincare comes from plants.

Please note: the source of squalane is only known if disclosed by the brand. We recommend reaching out to the brand if you have any questions about their squalane.

Read more about squalene with an "e".

Learn more about Squalane

Clinique Even Better Clinical™ Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter contains this as ingredient number 20.

Clinique Smart™ Custom-Repair Serum contains this as ingredient number 50.

18
What it does: Skin Conditioning
Community Rating: Liked

Acetyl Glucosamine is an antioxidant and humectant. It is a form of Vitamin C.

Acetyl Glucosamine helps the skin produce hyaluronic acid and boost hydration.

Antioxidants help fight off free-radicals, molecules that may damage skin cells.

When paired with niacinamide, Acetyl Glucosamine has been shown to be effective at reducing discoloration.

Read more about other types of Vitamin C:

Learn more about Acetyl Glucosamine

Clinique Even Better Clinical™ Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter contains this as ingredient number 21.

Clinique Smart™ Custom-Repair Serum contains this as ingredient number 40.

19
What it does: Humectant, Skin Conditioning
Community Rating: Loved

Sodium Hyaluronate is hyaluronic acid's salt form. It is commonly derived from the sodium salt of hyaluronic acid.

Like hyaluronic acid, it is great at holding water and acts as a humectant. This makes it a great skin hydrating ingredient.

Sodium Hyaluronate is naturally occurring in our bodies and is mostly found in eye fluid and joints.

These are some other common types of Hyaluronic Acid:

Learn more about Sodium Hyaluronate

Clinique Even Better Clinical™ Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter contains this as ingredient number 22.

Clinique Smart™ Custom-Repair Serum contains this as ingredient number 48.

20
What it does: Skin Conditioning
Community Rating: Loved

Caffeine is most associated with coffee, tea, and cacao. In skincare, it helps with calming inflammation and anti-aging.

Caffeine is an antioxidants, which help with the signs of aging. This is because antioxidants help fight skin-damaging free radical molecules.

While caffeine is used to treat cellulite and and dark circles, further studies are needed to prove this. It has been believed to help with these skin conditions due to its ability to dilate blood vessels and increase blood flow.

Some studies are looking into caffeine's ability to protect against UV rays.

Learn more about Caffeine

Clinique Even Better Clinical™ Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter contains this as ingredient number 23.

Clinique Smart™ Custom-Repair Serum contains this as ingredient number 37.

21
What it does: Emollient, Skin Conditioning, Solvent
Community Rating: Mixed

Isohexadecane is added to enhance texture, emulsify, and to help cleanse. It is an isoparrafin. It is a component of petrolatum.

Due to its large size, Isohexadecane is not absorbed by the skin. Instead, it sits on top and acts as an emollient. Emollients help keep your skin soft and smooth by trapping moisture within.

Isohexadecane is often used in products designed to help oily skin. It is lightweight and non-greasy while helping to moisturize. When mixed with silicones, it gives a product a silky feel.

Learn more about Isohexadecane

Clinique Even Better Clinical™ Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter contains this as ingredient number 24.

Clinique Smart™ Custom-Repair Serum contains this as ingredient number 34.

22
What it does: Skin Conditioning

We don't have a description for Sodium Rna.

Clinique Even Better Clinical™ Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter contains this as ingredient number 27.

Clinique Smart™ Custom-Repair Serum contains this as ingredient number 49.

23
What it does: Skin Conditioning
Community Rating: Loved

We don't have a description for Glycyrrhetinic Acid.

Clinique Even Better Clinical™ Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter contains this as ingredient number 28.

Clinique Smart™ Custom-Repair Serum contains this as ingredient number 45.

24
What it does: Antioxidant, Skin Conditioning

Dimethoxytolyl Propylresorcinol is an antioxidant.

Clinique Even Better Clinical™ Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter contains this as ingredient number 29.

Clinique Smart™ Custom-Repair Serum contains this as ingredient number 43.

25
What it does: Skin Conditioning

We don't have a description for Di-C12-18 Alkyl Dimonium Chloride.

Clinique Even Better Clinical™ Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter contains this as ingredient number 30.

Clinique Smart™ Custom-Repair Serum contains this as ingredient number 32.

26
What it does: Abrasive
Community Rating: Disliked

Helianthus Annuus Seedcake is an exfoliant and isn't fungal acne safe.

Clinique Even Better Clinical™ Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter contains this as ingredient number 31.

Clinique Smart™ Custom-Repair Serum contains this as ingredient number 36.

27
What it does: Skin Conditioning, Skin Protecting
Community Rating: Mixed

We don't have a description for Yeast Extract.

Clinique Even Better Clinical™ Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter contains this as ingredient number 32.

Clinique Smart™ Custom-Repair Serum contains this as ingredient number 24.

28
What it does: Emollient, Humectant, Skin Conditioning
Community Rating: Liked

Caprylyl Glycol is a humectant and emollient, meaning it attracts and preserves moisture.

It is a common ingredient in many products, especially those designed to hydrate skin. The primary benefits are retaining moisture, skin softening, and promoting a healthy skin barrier.

Though Caprylyl Glycol is an alcohol derived from fatty acids, it is not the kind that can dry out skin.

This ingredient is also used as a preservative to extend the life of products. It has slight antimicrobial properties.

Learn more about Caprylyl Glycol

Clinique Even Better Clinical™ Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter contains this as ingredient number 33.

Clinique Smart™ Custom-Repair Serum contains this as ingredient number 41.

29
What it does: Emollient

Propylene Glycol Dicaprate is an emollient and emulsifier. It is created from a mixture of fatty acids.

Clinique Even Better Clinical™ Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter contains this as ingredient number 34.

Clinique Smart™ Custom-Repair Serum contains this as ingredient number 35.

30
What it does:
Community Rating: Disliked

Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Vp Copolymer (let's call it AAVC for short) is a synthetically created polymer. It's used as a film-forming agent and used to thicken the consistency of products.

AAVC is able to increase the consistency and viscosity of products due to its large molecule size. It also prevents ingredients from separating.

Clinique Even Better Clinical™ Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter contains this as ingredient number 35.

Clinique Smart™ Custom-Repair Serum contains this as ingredient number 52.

31

We don't have a description for Acrylamide/Sodium Acryloyldimethyltaurate Copolymer.

Clinique Even Better Clinical™ Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter contains this as ingredient number 36.

Clinique Smart™ Custom-Repair Serum contains this as ingredient number 56.

32
What it does: Emulsifying
Community Rating: Very Disliked

Polysorbate 20 is made by combining ethoxylation of sorbitan, ethylene oxide, and lauric acid. It is a mild cleansing agent, surfactant, and emulsifier.

As a surfactant, it helps collect dirt and oils for washing. Emulsifiers prevent oils and water from separating.

Polysorbate 20 also adds scent to a product. Since it is made using sorbitol, it has a sweet scent. Sorbitol can also be found in fruits such as apples and peaches.

The lauric acid used to create Polysorbate 20 is often derived from coconuts.

Polysorbate 20 may not be fungal acne safe.

Learn more about Polysorbate 20

Clinique Even Better Clinical™ Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter contains this as ingredient number 37.

Clinique Smart™ Custom-Repair Serum contains this as ingredient number 29.

33
What it does: Antioxidant, Skin Conditioning
Community Rating: Liked

Tocopheryl Acetate is AKA Vitamin E. It is an antioxidant and protects your skin from free radicals. Free radicals damage the skin by breaking down collagen.

One study found using Tocopheryl Acetate with Vitamin C decreased the number of sunburned cells.

Tocopheryl Acetate is commonly found in both skincare and dietary supplements.

Learn more about Tocopheryl Acetate

Clinique Even Better Clinical™ Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter contains this as ingredient number 38.

Clinique Smart™ Custom-Repair Serum contains this as ingredient number 39.

34
What it does: Emulsifying
Community Rating: Very Disliked

Polysorbate 80 is a surfactant and emulsifier. It is used to keep ingredients together, and prevent oils and waters from separating.

It is made from polyethoxylated sorbitan and oleic acid. This ingredient can be found in cosmetics, foods, and medicine. It is water-soluble.

Polysorbate 80 may not be fungal acne safe.

Learn more about Polysorbate 80

Clinique Even Better Clinical™ Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter contains this as ingredient number 39.

Clinique Smart™ Custom-Repair Serum contains this as ingredient number 47.

35
What it does: Buffering, Masking
Community Rating: Liked

Tromethamine is an aliphatic compound. An aliphatic compound is an organic compound with open-chained carbon atoms. It is synthetically created. Tromethamine is used to balance pH and improve texture.

As an emulsifier, Tromethamine prevents oil and water ingredients from separating. This helps stabilize the product and elongate a product's shelf life. Tromethamine also makes a product thicker.

Tromethamine helps balance the pH level of a product. Normal pH level of skin is slightly acidic (~4.75-5.5). The acidity of our skin is maintained by our glands and skin biome. Being slightly acidic allows our skin to create an "acid mantle". This acid mantle is a thin barrier that protects our skin from bacteria and contaminants.

Oral Tromethanmine is an anti-inflammatory drug but plays the role of masking, adding fragrance, and/or balancing pH in skincare.

1,3-Propanediol, 2-amino-2-(hydroxymethyl)-

Learn more about Tromethamine

Clinique Even Better Clinical™ Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter contains this as ingredient number 40.

Clinique Smart™ Custom-Repair Serum contains this as ingredient number 46.

36
What it does: Buffering
Community Rating: Mixed

Sodium Hydroxide is also known as lye or caustic soda. It is used to adjust the pH of products; many ingredients require a specific pH to be effective.

In small amounts, sodium hydroxide is considered safe to use. However, large amounts may cause chemical burns due to its high alkaline.

Your skin has a natural pH and acid mantle. This acid mantle helps prevent harmful bacteria from breaking through. The acid mantle also helps keep your skin hydrated.

"Alkaline" refers to a high pH level. A low pH level would be considered acidic.

Learn more about Sodium Hydroxide

Clinique Even Better Clinical™ Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter contains this as ingredient number 41.

Clinique Smart™ Custom-Repair Serum contains this as ingredient number 57.

37
What it does: Emulsifying, Skin Conditioning, Solvent
Community Rating: Disliked

Hexylene Glycol is a surfactant. Glycols are a class of alcohols. Hexylene Glycol is a surfactant and emulsifier.

As a surfactant, Hexylene Glycol helps gather dirt and oil on your skin to be washed away.

As an emulsifier, Hexylene Glycol helps keep water and oil together. This prevents them from separating in a product. Hexylene Glycol also thins out the texture of a product by lessening viscosity.

Hexylene Glycol has a small molecular weight.

Learn more about Hexylene Glycol

Clinique Even Better Clinical™ Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter contains this as ingredient number 42.

Clinique Smart™ Custom-Repair Serum contains this as ingredient number 55.

38
What it does:
Community Rating: Disliked

Disodium EDTA plays a role in making products more stable by aiding other preservatives.

It is a chelating agent, meaning it neutralizes metal ions that may be found in a product.

Disodium EDTA is a salt of edetic acid and is found to be safe in cosmetic ingredients.

Learn more about Disodium EDTA

Clinique Even Better Clinical™ Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter contains this as ingredient number 43.

Clinique Smart™ Custom-Repair Serum contains this as ingredient number 59.

39
What it does: Preservative
Community Rating: Very Disliked

Phenoxyethanol is a preservative that has germicide, antimicrobial, and aromatic properties. Studies show that phenoxyethanol can prevent germ and microbial growth. By itself, it has a scent that is similar to that of a rose.

It's often used in formulations along with Caprylyl Glycol to preserve the shelf life of products.

Clinique Even Better Clinical™ Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter contains this as ingredient number 47.

Clinique Smart™ Custom-Repair Serum contains this as ingredient number 60.

40
What it does: Cosmetic Colorant

Ci 19140 is also known as Tartrazine. Tartrazine is a synthetic dye used in cosmetics, foods, and medicine to add a yellow color.

Tartrazine is created from petroleum and is water-soluble.

Some people may experience allergies from this dye, especially asthmatics and those with an aspirin intolerance.

Learn more about CI 19140

Clinique Even Better Clinical™ Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter contains this as ingredient number 49.

Clinique Smart™ Custom-Repair Serum contains this as ingredient number 61.

Here's what our community thinks of the ingredients in these two products.

35% are loved or liked
14% have mixed ratings
29% are disliked or very disliked
22% have no rating yet
38% are loved or liked
9% have mixed ratings
27% are disliked or very disliked
26% have no rating yet

Usage

Here's some more info on how this product is used by our community.

When to use

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Alternatives

Our Dupe Finder has found 14 potential alternatives that have similar ingredients to Clinique Even Better Clinical™ Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter.

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Our Dupe Finder has found 17 potential alternatives that have similar ingredients to Clinique Smart™ Custom-Repair Serum.

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