Clinique Pore Refining Solutions Stay-Matte Hydrator Review

Clinique Pore Refining Solutions Stay-Matte Hydrator
4.6
/ 10
Moisturizing
5.9 Humectancy icon Humectancy
3.3 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
Ingredients

Clinique Pore Refining Solutions Stay-Matte Hydrator Ingredients

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Full Ingredient List (INCI):

Water, Dimethicone, Glycerin, Alcohol Denat., Polymethyl Methacrylate, Silica, Talc, Butylene Glycol, Trisiloxane, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Sigesbeckia Orientalis Extract, Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Extract, Hordeum Vulgare Extract, Laminaria Saccharina Extract, Cholesterol, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Protein, Sucrose, Linoleic Acid, Squalane, Diethylhexyl Succinate, Polyethylene, Acetyl Glucosamine, Nylon-12 Fluorescent Brightener 230 Salt, Ethylene/Methacrylate Copolymer, Phospholipids, Hexylene Glycol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Isopropyl Titanium Triisostearate, Caprylyl Glycol, Polyvinylalcohol Crosspolymer, Sodium Carbomer, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Chlorphenesin, Phenoxyethanol, Mica, Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)
Review

Does Clinique Pore Refining Solutions Stay-Matte Hydrator Work?

 
According to CreamScan's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what Clinique Pore Refining Solutions Stay-Matte Hydrator has to offer:
 
Moderate moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 4.6 out of 10.

  

Key Benefits of Clinique Pore Refining Solutions Stay-Matte Hydrator

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using Clinique Pore Refining Solutions Stay-Matte Hydrator:
 

🔵 Lightweight Moisturizer Suitable for Combination and Oily Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, Clinique Pore Refining Solutions Stay-Matte Hydrator is quite moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 4.6 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? This product has relatively comparable levels of humectancy and occlusivity: a moderate humectancy of 5.9 out of 10, primarily due to the substantial concentration of Glycerin (est. ≈4.0%), and a moderate occlusivity of 3.3 out of 10, mainly due to the high content of Dimethicone (est. ≈6.0%).

This type of moisturizer is suitable for people with oily and combination skin who want essential hydration in a relatively lightweight, non-greasy formula. It combines a substantial amount of humectants with a limited amount of occlusive ingredients to enhance moisturizing efficacy without feeling too heavy.

💧 A Humectant Add-on for Any Skincare Routine

But it’s not limited to combination and oily skin - since it contains a moderate amount of humectants, such a humectant add-on will also positively contribute to the moisturizing efficacy of any skincare routine when used as a step before applying the main moisturizer.

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

📌 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 Pore Refining Solutions Stay-Matte Hydrator

 
CreamScan identified a few things to consider before adding Clinique Pore Refining Solutions Stay-Matte Hydrator to your skincare routine:
 

⚠️ Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy

If one of your main reasons for choosing Clinique Pore Refining Solutions Stay-Matte Hydrator is its potential anti-aging effects, please note that, according to CreamScan analysis, it currently has a zero anti-wrinkle rating.

It contains Acetyl Glucosamine, an ingredient often marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles. However, the studies supporting the anti-wrinkle claims of Acetyl Glucosamine provide insufficient evidence of its efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards.

While this does not categorically rule out the possibility that Acetyl Glucosamine may reduce wrinkles, its 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, this ingredient does 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 Pore Refining Solutions Stay-Matte Hydrator

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of Clinique Pore Refining Solutions Stay-Matte Hydrator to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

🟩 Pros:

✅ When used alone: Provides moderate humectant moisturizing suitable for combination and oily skin
✅ As part of a routine: A humectant moisturizing enhancement, beneficial for any skin type
✅ Lightweight texture
 

⭕ Cons: 

⚠️ Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy
   

Summary: Clinique Pore Refining Solutions Stay-Matte Hydrator

 
Based on the ingredient list analysis, CreamScan AI suggests that Clinique Pore Refining Solutions Stay-Matte Hydrator
, when used alone, delivers  lightweight, moderate humectant moisturizing, suitable for combination and oily skin. As part of a moisturizing routine, it provides a subtle humectant enhancement, beneficial for all skin types.
 
That said, there are some things about Clinique Pore Refining Solutions Stay-Matte Hydrator worth noting.
 
If one of your main reasons for considering Clinique Pore Refining Solutions Stay-Matte Hydrator 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
75
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
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Alcohol Denat.
Function:
Origin:
Polymethyl Methacrylate
Function:
Origin:
Silica
Function:
Origin:
Talc
Function:
Origin:
Butylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Trisiloxane
Function:
Origin:
Hydrogenated Polyisobutene
Function:
Origin:
Hydrogenated Lecithin
Function:
Origin:
Sigesbeckia Orientalis Extract
Function:
Origin:
Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Extract
Function:
Origin:
Hordeum Vulgare Extract
Function:
Origin:
Laminaria Saccharina Extract
Function:
Origin:
Cholesterol
Function:
Origin:
Glycine Soja (Soybean) Protein
Function:
Origin:
Sucrose
Function:
Origin:
Linoleic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Squalane
Function:
Origin:
Diethylhexyl Succinate
Function:
Origin:
Polyethylene
Function:
Origin:
Acetyl Glucosamine
Function:
Origin:
Nylon-12 Fluorescent Brightener 230 Salt
Function:
Origin:
Ethylene/Methacrylate Copolymer
Function:
Origin:
Phospholipids
Function:
Origin:
Hexylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Tocopheryl Acetate
Function:
Origin:
Isopropyl Titanium Triisostearate
Function:
Origin:
Caprylyl Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Polyvinylalcohol Crosspolymer
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Carbomer
Function:
Origin:
Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer
Function:
Origin:
Chlorphenesin
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Mica
Function:
Origin:
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
5.9
4
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
6.6
6.0
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
4.6
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 5.9 10
5.9
4
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 6.6 20
3.3
6.0
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
4.6
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
4
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 5.9 10
5.9
All humectants
5.9
4
1
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
- 0.3 -
Total
0
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
0.3
All antioxidants 0.3 3 No
All antioxidants
0.3
Tocopheryl Acetate
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 1.5 5 No
All soothing
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Water
Est. %75
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.
Glycerin
Est. %4
Function
Origin
Glycerin

The most popular moisturizing ingredient in the world. It is a powerful humectant – cheap yet very effective.

Alcohol Denat.
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Alcohol Denat.

Denatured alcohol is ethanol that contains additives that make it unsafe to consume. It is mainly used as a solvent and an antimicrobial agent. A major drawback to alcohol denat. is that it dries out the skin.

Polymethyl Methacrylate
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Polymethyl MethacrylateA powdered ingredient with an impressive sensory profile that gives off a creamy, sometimes velvety feeling on the skin. It is made up of tiny microspheres that roll smoothly across the skin and create slip and high spreadability.
Silica
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
SilicaA widely used cosmetic ingredient with the same chemical composition as the sand found on beaches. A common function of silica is its ability to control viscosity. In certain chemical forms, it can effectively thicken cream-style products.
Talc
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
TalcA mineral powder used as a base material for powders, make-up, and pastes that absorbs sweat and oils very well. It is also often used in baby powders. Talc should never be applied to skin with a damaged lipid barrier (e.g. wounds and burns).
Butylene Glycol
Est. %1
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.

Trisiloxane
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Trisiloxane
Hydrogenated Polyisobutene
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydrogenated PolyisobuteneA viscous liquid that makes a great oil base due to its smooth sensorial profile. It has emollient features, including good spreadability and little tack upon application. It also has the added benefit of being able to thicken products.
Hydrogenated Lecithin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydrogenated LecithinA version of plain lecithin that has been saturated with hydrogen atoms. This ingredient can be derived from plants, like soy or sunflower, from egg yolks, or made synthetically. Its major function is to emulsify water and oils.
Sigesbeckia Orientalis Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sigesbeckia Orientalis ExtractA soothing extract obtained from St Paul's wort that is rich in anti-inflammatory phenolic compounds. The extract is widely used in Asian countries as a traditional remedy for inflammatory skin issues and skin-related diseases.
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.
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.
Laminaria Saccharina Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Laminaria Saccharina ExtractA soothing extract derived from a species of edible brown seaweed called sugar kelp or Devil’s apron (due to its shape and large surface). It contains water-binding and soothing polysaccharides, as well as many beneficial minerals.
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.
Glycine Soja (Soybean) Protein
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glycine Soja (Soybean) ProteinAn emulsifying mixture of proteins extracted from soybeans. It has some soothing properties (e.g., it can help with the healing of sunburned skin) and contains various proteins, enzymes, and amino acids.
Sucrose
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
SucroseThis ingredient is more commonly known as table sugar or saccharose and is derived from sugar beets or sugar cane. It is used as a humectant moisturizing ingredient in skincare products, as well as a sweetener.
Linoleic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Linoleic AcidA fatty acid isolated from various plant oils (notably evening primrose, safflower, grape seed, and sunflower oil). It is an occlusive moisturizer and emollient that doesn't leave an oily, sticky residue and is especially suitable for oily and acne-prone skin.
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.
Diethylhexyl Succinate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Diethylhexyl Succinate
Polyethylene
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PolyethyleneCommonly used in dense plastic packaging, its primary function in skincare is as a film-forming agent, which protects the product from being easily rinsed away by water or sweat. It also controls viscosity by increasing the thickness of oily products.
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.
Nylon-12 Fluorescent Brightener 230 Salt
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Nylon-12 Fluorescent Brightener 230 Salt
Ethylene/Methacrylate Copolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ethylene/Methacrylate Copolymer
Phospholipids
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PhospholipidsA large group of lipids that are an essential component of every single cell membrane in the body. They have excellent emollient properties. Phospholipids are also utilized in the manufacturing of ‘fancy’ formulations such as liposomes.
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.
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.

Isopropyl Titanium Triisostearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Isopropyl Titanium Triisostearate
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.
Polyvinylalcohol Crosspolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polyvinylalcohol Crosspolymer
Sodium Carbomer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium CarbomerLike Carbomer, only pre-reacted so that no neutralization is required. Carbomer based gels are clear and have a non-sticky smooth feel. Many high end cosmetics will use carbomers as part of their formula to build body without making a product feel heavy.
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.
Chlorphenesin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
ChlorphenesinA preservative and broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent that protects products from a wide range of bacteria and fungi.
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.
Mica
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
MicaA mineral powder made up of silicates with several functions (the main one being as a colorant). It has a shimmery appearance, making it highly desirable in certain cosmetic products. Mica also helps the product to apply more smoothly.
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)One of two the most commonly used mineral sunscreens. It can absorb UV light, including UVB – which causes burning, tanning, and even skin cancer. Also used as a colorant, titanium dioxide gives a product a bright white color.