Launched back in 1968, Clinique was the first ever cosmetic line developed by dermatologists. Avoiding the use of parabens, phthalates, allergens, irritants, and fragrances, Clinique prides themselves on their safe ingredients. Tested by dermatologists, Clinique products go through a vigorous series of studies before they are released to ensure they meet the highest standards of safety and efficacy. Typically available at high-end department stores, Clinique also is sold online through their company website and at retailers like Sephora and Ulta Beauty. While Clinique doesn't have a subscription box option, they do often have Limited Edition sets available for purchase and that's exactly what we are going to be checking out.
FYI – this set is still available, while supplies last.
My Subscription Addiction paid for this box. (Check out the editorial guidelines to learn more about how we review boxes.)
First Impressions
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Packaged with a suitable amount of Clinique-branded tissue paper, this set safely arrived wrapped in plastic, inside of a large cardboard box.
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As a complimentary sample, we also received an adorable sample of Clinique Happy perfume spray, along with a sample of Clinique Moisture Surge 100H. (The perfume made my heart happy, as my childhood best friend's mom wore this all the time, and I haven't had a whiff since the early 2000s....ahh the nostalgia!)
The Breakdown – What’s Inside This Limited-Edition Box from Clinique
Clinique Pop Lip in Love Pop, 0.13 oz. (FULL SIZE!) - Retail Value $15
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In the midst of a seemingly long winter, I need all the spring/summer vibes I can get, and this bright magenta lipstick is definitely giving me those vibes. Complete with a smoothing primer, this lipstick glides on effortlessly and has quite the staying power. Unlike other long-wear lipsticks, my lips did not dry out while wearing this, and though it did leave residue on my coffee cup, the color was still intact on my lips after lunch. While the color may be a little too bright for some, I personally found it refreshing and bright - a great addition to a seemingly spring/summer box!
Clinique High Impact Mascara in Black, 0.28 oz. (FULL SIZE!) - Retail Value $15.75
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I love a good smokey eye and have been pretty loyal to my current brand of mascara. While I have tried a ton of different brands, I've never found anything better, so I have just stuck with what I know. This is the first time I have tried Clinique High Impact Mascara, and I have to say I'm quite impressed. I love the brush, finding the soft bristles to coat my lashes evenly and voluptuously. Even after a few coats I didn't notice any clumping, and the wear time was excellent. I may have found a new favorite! (See photos below of it on)
Clinique Limited-Edition Eye + Cheek Palette (FULL SIZE!)
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I am obsessed with eyeshadow palettes so I couldn't wait to try this one out. As a limited-edition version, I couldn't find it available for separate purchase on the Clinique website. Donning 4 eyeshadow colors and one blush, I found the neutral shades flattering and cohesive. To create my usual look, I opted for the white and cream on my lid, followed by the dark plum/black in the crease and blending it out with the metallic gunmetal. The blush was an idea shade for my fair skin, not being too bright, yet being buildable for when I have a tan. I like the inclusion of the mirror for when I am traveling and thought the blue and peach case fit with the sun-kissed theme. Definitely workable in my day-to-day routine, I was happy to add this to my cosmetic case! (Modeled below)
Clinique Take the Day Off Makeup Remover, 4.2 oz. (FULL SIZE!) - Retail Value $15.75
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I literally apply makeup every day. As I have struggled with anxiety in the past, sticking to a routine has proven beneficial to keeping my anxiety in check and this is just part of my schedule. Because I use a lot of eye products, I need something gentle to remove it at night. I have been a fan of The Original MakeUp Eraser for a really long time which works fantastic, but sometimes just doesn't get stubborn lipstick off easily, or leaves a bit of mascara on my eyelashes. This gentle makeup remover worked great for removing all-day wear lipsticks without leaving a giant red ring around my lips from scrubbing so hard and took every bit of mascara off without hurting my eyes. Here I thought I had been doing just fine without a product like this in my life, and now I'm a convert!
Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion - 50 mL (FULL SIZE!) - Retail Value $17
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As a young teen, I had severe acne, so severe in fact that I was put on the medication Accutane. While it worked wonders on my skin, the side effects were so immense I had to go off of it. Because of the drying effects of that medication, my dermatologist suggested this very moisturizer for my face. It worked great, and helped ease my dryness, but after a few years my skin seemed to sort itself out and I started using products that were a little less expensive. At age 33, I have used hundreds of moisturizers (mostly thanks to subscription boxes), but hadn't tried this one since my teens. I was happy to see the tube still looked the same. Unscented and light, I have been using this day and night to reveal softer skin. I love the fact that this is not a greasy lotion and can be used right before applying my daily makeup. Since using, I have not had one breakout, and it doesn't take a whole heck of a lot to cover my face and neck. Because of its gentleness, it works well with sensitive skin, and has really impacted my winter skin in a good way!
Clinique Exclusive Train Cosmetic Case, (FULL SIZE!)
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Last but not least, we received all of our goodies in a nicely-sized train case. Measuring 10" x 6", this understated yet chic bag can hold a substantial amount of makeup. All of the stitching is lovely, and the handle is double-sewn for security. My youngest son said the best part is the "C" on the front - just for Charlie!
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Starting with the moisturizer, using all included products I came up with this sun-kissed, summer look. And hey, we don't have to wait too long to debut it - only 136 days until it's here!
Value – Was This Box Worth It?
The Cost: $35
Cost Breakdown:
- Clinique Pop Lip in Love Pop → $15
- Clinique High Impact Mascara in Black → $15.75
- Clinique Limited-Edition Eye + Cheek Palette → Exclusive
- Clinique Take the Day Off Makeup Remover → $15.75
- Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion → $17
- Clinique Exclusive Train Case → Exclusive
This set cost $35, and without even including the exclusive train case and limited-edition palette, has a retail value of $63.50.
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Key Takeaways
Going back 20 years, I have always thought of Clinique as a high-quality brand. Not only did my rich friends' moms use their products, but my very own dermatologist even recommended them! As I have aged, my skin has gotten a little more sensitive, and I have to start really looking at ingredients in things I use. Going back to where I started, I am happy to say the products I had tried previously worked as well as they did before, and I have even discovered some new things I will continue to use (I'm talking about you, mascara!) As far as limited-edition sets go, I have to say this was a great curation and for the cost, an awesome way to try out full size products from an amazing brand.
Other Things You Should Know
Can you still get this box if you order today? Yes, this is still available.
What do you think of the Clinique Limited-Edition Sun Kissed Essentials Set? Would you like to see more of these sets reviewed in the future?
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