Oversize claw clips. Lug-sole loafers. Coffee with (gasp) dairy milk. Whether you’re scrolling through TikTok or people-watching on the street, it’s no secret that a turn-back-time aesthetic—that’s giving total nostalgia—is very in right now.
That’s true for skin care and makeup too, and one tried-and-true, beloved brand is having a major resurgence. Clinique has held strong in the conversation since it was created in 1968—and when you consider the shifting winds of change that blow through the beauty world on a near-daily basis, that’s a *really* long time.
Clinique hit the scene as the first-ever dermatologist-developed prestige beauty brand with iconic, sleek products in pale-green bottles—chosen for the color’s soothing effects—that were allergy-tested, fragrance-free, and suited for all skin types. The result was a simple, clinical-meets-glamorous approach to beauty that was timeless from the start. (Just take one of Clinique’s first print ads, promoting the 3-Step System for skin care, which ran *unchanged* for more than 20 years.)
These days, younger beauty enthusiasts are catching on to this classic quality. All across the internet, people who were born in the ‘60s and people who call that decade ancient history are agreeing on one thing: Clinique is timeless for a reason. Whichever generation you’re in, join the back-to-classics wave and give your skin-care cabinet—and your complexion—a refresh with a Clinique set of essentials that’ll never go out of style.
Shop Clinique Staples
Clinique Jumbo Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion+ — $49.00
Over the years, and thanks to lots of viral social-media trends, you’ve stocked up on hydrating serums and gels and oils (oh my). Instead of jumping on the latest it-cream, run it back to the original dermatologist-developed moisturizer.
Clinique’s Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion is a bestseller for a reason—the formula, made with natural ingredients like barley, sunflower, and cucumber, offers eight hours of soothing hydration and clinically-proven skin-barrier repair. Snag the iconic mellow-yellow bottle in the jumbo size (trust us).
Clinique Even Better Makeup Broad Spectrum SPF15 — $35.00
Yes, the no-makeup-makeup look is still en vogue (will a fresh face ever feel outdated?)—and it starts with a lightweight base layer. The Even Better collection of creamy foundations gives your skin moderate coverage, SPF protection, and a natural finish for as long as 24 hours. The best part? You can choose from over 50 (yes, 50) shades—so matching your makeup to your glowy complexion is NBD.
Clinique Cult Classics On The Go Set — $18.00
ICYMI, the internet is *loving* Clinique’s black-honey lip these days (did you know that seven of them are sold globally every minute?). It’s more balm than gloss or lipstick, and the sheer formula has a chameleon-like ability to look flattering on any skin tone.
Pair it with a simple swipe of Clinique’s high-impact mascara, and your wide eyes and lathered lips are ready to take on the day—or night. An eye-lip duo you can throw into any purse or pocket? That’s a combination that can stand the test of time.
Related Stories
Clinique Beauty Value Set — $127.00
In your brighter-is-better era? Classic and colorful don’t have to be mutually exclusive—you can embody both with a brush of silky blush on your cheeks and a layer of Clinique’s iconic Chubby Stick on your lips. Add this Clinique set to your cart, and you’ll get a wear-for-hours lip liner and powder foundation brush, too.
Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm 3.8oz — $38.00
When you’re ready to call it a day, start your wind-down routine with your claw clip and Clinique’s lightweight makeup remover. This best-selling solid balm transforms into the silkiest oil upon application, thanks to an infusion of super-moisturizing, never-greasy safflower seed oil.
Clinique All About Eyes Eye Cream — $38.00
After removing your makeup and reapplying moisturizer, give your tired eyes some TLC. This award-winning cream relies on ingredients like vitamin C, whey protein, and caffeine to help reduce the look of puffiness and dark circles—and its bouncy, gel-like consistency feels seriously luxurious as it swipes on. Apply a few dabs before bidding farewell to the day and to all your timeless essentials… at least until tomorrow (and the next day and the next day).
Our editors independently select these products. Making a purchase through our links may earn Well+Good a commission.