Clinique Even Better Clinical Dark Spot Corrector Review

Clinique Even Better Clinical Dark Spot Corrector
3.3
/ 10
Moisturizing
3.3 Humectancy icon Humectancy
3.3 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
Rich
in Antioxidants
Ingredients

Clinique Even Better Clinical Dark Spot Corrector Ingredients

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Full Ingredient List (INCI):

Water, Dimethicone, Isododecane, Cyclopentasiloxane, Polysilicone-11, Butylene Glycol, Ascorbyl Glucoside, PEG-10 Dimethicone, Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Extract, Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Peel Extract, Hordeum Vulgare Extract, Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Extract, Betula Alba Bark Extract, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Dimethoxytolyl Propylresorcinol, Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract, Morus Bombycis Root Extract, Trametes Versicolor Extract, Saccharomyces Lysate Extract, Yeast Extract, PEG-6, Tromethamine, Salicylic Acid, Polysorbate 20, Cholesterol, Isohexadecane, Propylene Glycol Dicaprate, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seedcake, Caffeine, Tocopheryl Acetate, Acetyl Glucosamine, Simethicone, Glycyrrhetinic Acid, Polysorbate 80, Sodium Hyaluronate, Di-C12-18 Alkyl Dimonium Chloride, Sodium RNA, Squalane, Sodium Sulfite, Sodium Metabisulfite, Caprylyl Glycol, Hexylene Glycol, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Acrylamide/Sodium Acryloyldimethyltaurate Copolymer, Disodium EDTA, Phenoxyethanol, Yellow 6 (CI 15985), Yellow 5 (CI 19140)
Review

Does Clinique Even Better Clinical Dark Spot Corrector Work?

 
According to CreamScan's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what Clinique Even Better Clinical Dark Spot Corrector has to offer:
 
✅ Light moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 3.3 out of 10.
✅ Antioxidant protection

  

Key Benefits of Clinique Even Better Clinical Dark Spot Corrector

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using Clinique Even Better Clinical Dark Spot Corrector:
 

🔵 Basic Moisturizer for Combination and Oily Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, Clinique Even Better Clinical Dark Spot Corrector is lightly moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 3.3 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? This product has relatively comparable levels of humectancy and occlusivity: a moderate humectancy of 3.3 out of 10 and a moderate occlusivity of 3.3 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Dimethicone (est. ≈6.0%).

This product, when used alone as a moisturizer, provides moderate hydration in a relatively lightweight, non-greasy formula. This could work for people with oily skin who need a basic level of hydration.

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the moisturizing rating calculation.

🍀 Rich in Skin-Protecting Antioxidants

We estimate that Clinique Even Better Clinical Dark Spot Corrector is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Ascorbyl Glucoside (est. ≈1.3%), Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract (est. ≈0.3%), Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Peel Extract (est. ≈0.3%), and others.

A key benefit of antioxidants is their ability to reduce oxidative stress caused by free radicals and therefore prevent accelerated skin aging. Studies also show that antioxidants can protect against environmental damage such as UV radiation and pollution, and help reduce inflammation and skin redness.

📌 Please note that this is not a complete list of benefits. We are in the process of enhancing our model to incorporate anti-pigmentation, exfoliation and anti-acne ratings.

Things to Be Aware Of: Clinique Even Better Clinical Dark Spot Corrector

 
CreamScan identified a few things to consider before adding Clinique Even Better Clinical Dark Spot Corrector to your skincare routine:
 

⚠️ Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy

If one of your main reasons for choosing Clinique Even Better Clinical Dark Spot Corrector is its potential anti-aging effects, please note that, according to CreamScan analysis, it currently has a zero anti-wrinkle rating.

It contains some ingredients often marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles, specifically Ascorbyl Glucoside, Caffeine, and Acetyl Glucosamine. However, the studies supporting the anti-wrinkle claims of these ingredients provide insufficient evidence of efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards. 

While this does not categorically rule out the possibility that these ingredients may reduce wrinkles, their efficacy is not supported by convincing, vehicle-controlled, double-blind clinical studies - at least none that were available to the CreamScan team at the time of publication.

Therefore, these ingredients do not generate the anti-wrinkle rating.

📌 Moisturizers, when used regularly, are proven to prevent wrinkle formation and even reduce existing wrinkles. Therefore, this product, like any other moisturizer, can deliver some anti-wrinkle effects through its moisturizing action.

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the anti-wrinkle rating calculation.

Pros & Cons of Clinique Even Better Clinical Dark Spot Corrector

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of Clinique Even Better Clinical Dark Spot Corrector to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

🟩 Pros:

✅ Basic moisturizing that can work for combination and oily skin
✅ Lightweight texture
✅ Rich in antioxidants that combat oxidative stress associated with accelerated skin aging and defend against environmental damage
 

⭕ Cons: 

⚠️ Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy
   

Summary: Clinique Even Better Clinical Dark Spot Corrector

 
Based on the ingredient list analysis, CreamScan AI suggests that Clinique Even Better Clinical Dark Spot Corrector
, as a moisturizer, provides basic, lightweight hydration, making it suitable for combination and oily skin.
 
With its high antioxidant content, Clinique Even Better Clinical Dark Spot Corrector helps protect against free radical damage and offers multiple benefits for all skin types, including preventing premature aging, defending against environmental damage, and calming inflammation.
 
That said, there are some things about Clinique Even Better Clinical Dark Spot Corrector worth noting.
 
If one of your main reasons for considering Clinique Even Better Clinical Dark Spot Corrector is its potential anti-aging effects, please note that, according to CreamScan analysis, its anti-wrinkle efficacy is questionable. None of the ingredients in this product provide substantial evidence of their anti-wrinkle efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards.
 
📌 Fact check. At CreamScan, we are committed to accuracy and fairness. If you spot any errors or something that doesn’t seem right, please click here to let us know. We regularly update the ingredient lists and monitor the latest research on ingredient efficacy to ensure that our information remains as complete and precise as possible. The information provided here is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional advice. We do not guarantee the efficacy or safety of any product, as individual results may vary.

 

Ingredient Breakdown

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
70
6
4
3
2
1.5
1.3
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Isododecane
Function:
Origin:
Cyclopentasiloxane
Function:
Origin:
Polysilicone-11
Function:
Origin:
Butylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Ascorbyl Glucoside
Function:
Origin:
PEG-10 Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Extract
Function:
Origin:
Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Peel Extract
Function:
Origin:
Hordeum Vulgare Extract
Function:
Origin:
Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Extract
Function:
Origin:
Betula Alba Bark Extract
Function:
Origin:
Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Dimethoxytolyl Propylresorcinol
Function:
Origin:
Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Morus Bombycis Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Trametes Versicolor Extract
Function:
Origin:
Saccharomyces Lysate Extract
Function:
Origin:
Yeast Extract
Function:
Origin:
PEG-6
Function:
Origin:
Tromethamine
Function:
Origin:
Salicylic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Polysorbate 20
Function:
Origin:
Cholesterol
Function:
Origin:
Isohexadecane
Function:
Origin:
Propylene Glycol Dicaprate
Function:
Origin:
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seedcake
Function:
Origin:
Caffeine
Function:
Origin:
Tocopheryl Acetate
Function:
Origin:
Acetyl Glucosamine
Function:
Origin:
Simethicone
Function:
Origin:
Glycyrrhetinic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Polysorbate 80
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hyaluronate
Function:
Origin:
Di-C12-18 Alkyl Dimonium Chloride
Function:
Origin:
Sodium RNA
Function:
Origin:
Squalane
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Sulfite
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Metabisulfite
Function:
Origin:
Caprylyl Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Hexylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer
Function:
Origin:
Acrylamide/Sodium Acryloyldimethyltaurate Copolymer
Function:
Origin:
Disodium EDTA
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Yellow 6 (CI 15985)
Function:
Origin:
Yellow 5 (CI 19140)
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
3.3
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
6.6
6.0
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
3.3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 3.3 10
3.3
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 6.6 20
3.3
6.0
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
3.3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 3.3 10
3.3
All humectants
3.3
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
6
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 6.6 20
3.3
All occlusives
6.6
6.0
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
n/a
- 1.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
0
Ascorbyl Glucoside
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
1.3
Caffeine
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Acetyl Glucosamine
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Anti-wrinkle rating
0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 4.3 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
4.3
Ascorbyl Glucoside
1.3
Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract
0.3
Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Peel Extract
0.3
Betula Alba Bark Extract
0.3
Dimethoxytolyl Propylresorcinol
0.3
Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract
0.3
Caffeine
0.3
Tocopheryl Acetate
0.3
Sodium Hyaluronate
0.3
Sodium Sulfite
0.3
Sodium Metabisulfite
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 2.1 5 No
All soothing
2.1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Water
Est. %70
Function
Origin
WaterThe most used ingredient in skincare. Its concentration defines the product texture: rich creams may have about 50% of water while a light jelly about 90%. Water doesn’t moisturize the skin by itself and is used in skincare as a solvent for other ingredients.
Dimethicone
Est. %6
Function
Origin
DimethiconeThe most common silicone in skincare. It forms a silky, smooth film on the skin’s surface and can help to prevent water loss. It also aids in wound healing and can treat and soften scars. Dimethicone is considered to be very safe for use.
Isododecane
Est. %4
Function
Origin
IsododecaneAn emollient derived from petroleum with high spreadability. It is often used as a replacement for oils and silicones because it leaves no residue behind on the skin. When a product is labeled as “oil-free” it may contain isododecane instead of heavier oils.
Cyclopentasiloxane
Est. %3
Function
Origin
CyclopentasiloxaneA lightweight, fast-spreading emollient that leaves a very soft and silky after-feel on the skin. Supplied as a clear and colorless liquid, cyclopentasiloxane is often used as a solvent to dissolve other silicones in.
Polysilicone-11
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Polysilicone-11A synthetic rubber-like substance of the silicone family that has no color or distinct scent. These are large molecules that cannot penetrate the skin but instead create a thin silky film on the skin's surface.
Butylene Glycol
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
Butylene Glycol

A clear, colorless liquid humectant that draws moisture to the skin. The humectancy of butylene glycol, owed to its two hydroxyl groups, is quite considerable, although not as powerful as glycerin, which contains three hydroxyl groups.

Ascorbyl Glucoside
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
Ascorbyl GlucosideA derivative of vitamin C. It is more stable and less irritating than ascorbic acid. There are unfortunately no clinical studies on ascorbyl glucoside’s anti-pigment or anti-acne efficacy alone.
PEG-10 Dimethicone
Est. %1
Function
Origin
PEG-10 DimethiconeA polyethylene-based emulsifying ingredient. It has a water-loving portion and an oil-loving portion that help to keep the water and oil phases connected to form an emulsion.
Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root ExtractAn extract derived from the thick roots of curcuma (turmeric), a famous yellow spice and a major ingredient in curry powder. It is used in skincare for its proven antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran ExtractAn extract from rice bran, the brown outer part of the rice kernel. It contains emollient fatty acids and antioxidants such as tocopherols (vitamin E) and γ-oryzanol.
Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Peel Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Peel Extract

Obtained from pomelo peels, this extract mainly consists of citrus-scented essential oil, as well as various antioxidant organic acids and flavonoids.

Hordeum Vulgare Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hordeum Vulgare ExtractA soothing and emollient extract derived from barley, a cereal grain commonly used in the breadmaking and beer fermentation process. It contains a beneficial polysaccharide called beta-glucan, as well as flavonoids and organic acids.
Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ ExtractAn emollient extract obtained from the germ part of the wheat grain. It contains proteins, fatty acids, vitamins E and B, as well as various other antioxidants. It has been claimed to have anti-pigment activity.
Betula Alba Bark Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Betula Alba Bark ExtractAn extract of white birch with a woody aroma that contains powerful wound healing, astringent and anti-inflammatory terpenoids, as well as tannins. It is suitable for irritated, inflamed, and problematic skin.
Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit ExtractA soothing, cooling, and emollient extract derived from cucumbers. Cucumber has been used in skincare for centuries and is used to treat skin problems such as eye swelling, sunburn, and itchy and irritated skin.
Dimethoxytolyl Propylresorcinol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Dimethoxytolyl Propylresorcinol
Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Scutellaria Baicalensis Root ExtractA powerful antioxidant, soothing, and astringent extract derived from the roots of Baikal/Chinese skullcap. It contains various unique flavonoids that are believed to soothe irritated and inflamed skin and protect from UV-induced oxidative damage.
Morus Bombycis Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Morus Bombycis Root Extract
Trametes Versicolor Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Trametes Versicolor Extract
Saccharomyces Lysate Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Saccharomyces Lysate ExtractA mixture of yeast cell fragments with humectant moisturizing properties. It contains many beneficial compounds, including a wound healing polysaccharide called beta-glucan, peptides, and various minerals and vitamins.
Yeast Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Yeast ExtractAlso labeled as faex extract, this is a natural ingredient derived from fresh yeast. It is used in skincare as a humectant. Yeast extract also helps to shield injured or exposed skin and can aid in the skin’s wound healing process.
PEG-6
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PEG-6A synthetic alcohol that moisturizes skin and dissolves many other ingredients.
Tromethamine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
TromethamineAn ingredient based on amino acids that is commonly used as a pH adjuster. It has a high pH, which means that it is basic (alkaline), so adding tromethamine to a skincare product will increase its overall pH level.
Salicylic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Salicylic AcidThis effective peeling and anti-inflammatory BHA is used as an anti-acne agent and works by breaking down the junctions between dead skin cells. This results in the peeling of dead skin and the unclogging of pores.
Polysorbate 20
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polysorbate 20A viscous, amber-colored liquid that functions as a solubilizer to disperse small amounts of oil into a large water phase. Polysorbate 20 is frequently used to solubilize fragrance oils into water-based emulsions.
Cholesterol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
CholesterolAn emollient and important barrier repairing lipid, effective when combined with fatty acids and ceramides. Around 25% of the skin’s lipid layer is made up of cholesterol and it is found in the membrane of every single cell in our body.
Isohexadecane
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
IsohexadecaneA clear, colorless liquid that is commonly used as an emollient. It is made up of pure hydrocarbons and leaves a dry feeling on the skin upon application. It also increases the spreadability of a product.
Propylene Glycol Dicaprate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Propylene Glycol DicaprateA thin, non-viscous emollient that gives shine with a smooth, non-greasy, and slightly powdery after-feel. It is often compared to mineral oil and can be used to replace this heavier oil without feeling overly greasy.
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seedcake
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) SeedcakeThe solid remaining after the oil pressing of sunflower seeds. The seed cake is used in skincare for its grainy structure as an abrasive ingredient in peelings. It leaves the skin feeling smooth and soft due to the sunflower oil content.
Caffeine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
CaffeineAn antioxidant compound that is obtained from coffee and tea leaves. It increases the microcirculation of blood in the skin and is claimed to be able to reduce the appearance of orange peel skin (although the research is lacking).
Tocopheryl Acetate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tocopheryl Acetate

An antioxidant derivative of tocopherol (vitamin E). It helps to protect cells from free radicals and UV damage through the conversion to active vitamin E in the skin. It is more stable than tocopherol.

Acetyl Glucosamine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Acetyl GlucosamineA body-natural amino-saccharide used in skincare as an anti-pigment ingredient. Some other benefits of acetyl glucosamine include decreased skin flakiness, improved wound healing, and even a slight reduction in facial wrinkles.
Simethicone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
SimethiconeA synthetic foam reducing agent that imparts a dry, cushiony aesthetic.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glycyrrhetinic AcidA compound derived from licorice root. It is a powerful anti-inflammatory ingredient with some anti-pigment properties.
Polysorbate 80
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polysorbate 80A non-ionic surfactant, which means that it contains no chemical charges. It can be used as a mild cleansing agent in skin cleansing products but is more commonly used for its emulsifying abilities.
Sodium Hyaluronate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Hyaluronate

A sodium salt of famous hyaluronic acid. A potent humectant that hydrates the skin, supports collagen function, and fills out small wrinkles. Sodium hyaluronate also offers soothing and antioxidant properties.

Di-C12-18 Alkyl Dimonium Chloride
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Di-C12-18 Alkyl Dimonium Chloride
Sodium RNA
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium RNA
Squalane
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
SqualaneAn occlusive moisturizing and emollient compound that forms part of the skin’s sebum. The main source of squalane had always been shark liver. Now, however, it is manufactured synthetically or derived from plant oils, such as olive and peanut oil.
Sodium Sulfite
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium SulfiteAn inorganic salt that defends against oxidation.
Sodium Metabisulfite
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium MetabisulfiteA preservative that is especially effective at preventing fungus and mold growth. It is normally combined with a strong bactericidal preservative in order to achieve broad-spectrum protection. Sodium metabisulfite is also used as an antioxidant.
Caprylyl Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Caprylyl GlycolAn emollient that improves product spreadability and offers a silky feel on the skin. It also acts as a preservative booster that improves the efficacy of other preservatives. According to the manufacturer, it is also a humectant moisturizer.
Hexylene Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hexylene GlycolA multifunctional ingredient that is best known for its use as a solvent. It can dissolve both water-based ingredients and oils. For this reason, it can also function as an emulsifier, allowing oil and water ingredients to mix and remain stable.
Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP CopolymerA polymeric ingredient that creates lightweight and refreshing gel textures. It also works as a viscosity controlling agent.
Acrylamide/Sodium Acryloyldimethyltaurate Copolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Acrylamide/Sodium Acryloyldimethyltaurate CopolymerA synthetic ingredient that forms a gel when mixed with water. It can thus thicken and stabilize a product.
Disodium EDTA
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Disodium EDTAA synthetic chelator that helps to maintain the look and smell of a product by 'locking up' troublesome metal ions.
Phenoxyethanol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PhenoxyethanolThe most frequently used preservative in skincare. It is a clear, oil-like liquid synthetic substance that protects products from harmful bacteria and yeast, whilst still leaving skin microflora unharmed. It is confirmed by research to be harmless.
Yellow 6 (CI 15985)
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Yellow 6 (CI 15985)A petroleum-derived reddish-yellow dye, also known as Sunset Yellow. It is the third most used pigment in food, cosmetics, and drugs.
Yellow 5 (CI 19140)
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Yellow 5 (CI 19140)A bright yellow colorant that is often also listed as FD&C Yellow 5.