Clinique Superbalanced Silk Makeup Broad Spectrum SPF 15 Review

Clinique Superbalanced Silk Makeup Broad Spectrum SPF 15
6.2
/ 10
Moisturizing
2.4 Humectancy icon Humectancy
10.0 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
15
SPF icon
SPF
Ingredients

Clinique Superbalanced Silk Makeup Broad Spectrum SPF 15 Ingredients

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Full Ingredient List (INCI):

Dimethicone, Water, Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Octinoxate, Vinyl Dimethicone/Methicone Silsesquioxane Crosspolymer, PEG-10 Dimethicone, Octisalate, Butylene Glycol, Phenyl Trimethicone, Isododecane, Isodecyl Isononanoate, Alcohol Denat., Lauryl PEG-9 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone, Dimethicone Silylate, Laminaria Saccharina Extract, Silk Powder, Sodium Hyaluronate, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Sorbitan Sesquioleate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Propylene Carbonate, Polysilicone-11, Lecithin, Laureth-7, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Dimethicone/PEG-10/15 Crosspolymer, Sodium Chloride, Silica, Xanthan Gum, Tetrasodium EDTA, Phenoxyethanol, Mica, Iron Oxides (CI 77491), Iron Oxides (CI 77492), Iron Oxides (CI 77499), Zinc Oxide
Review

Does Clinique Superbalanced Silk Makeup Broad Spectrum SPF 15 Work?

 
According to CreamScan's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what Clinique Superbalanced Silk Makeup Broad Spectrum SPF 15 has to offer:
 
✅ Significant moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 6.2 out of 10.
✅ Moderate sun protection for most daily activities or short periods spent outdoors.

  

Key Benefits of Clinique Superbalanced Silk Makeup Broad Spectrum SPF 15

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using Clinique Superbalanced Silk Makeup Broad Spectrum SPF 15:
 

🔵🔵🔵 Exceptionally Rich Moisturizer with the Right Occlusivity for Very Dry Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, Clinique Superbalanced Silk Makeup Broad Spectrum SPF 15 is highly moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 6.2 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Significantly more occlusive. It has a low Humectancy of 2.4 out of 10 and a maximum Occlusivity of 10 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Dimethicone (est. ≈40.0%).

This type of product, when used as a standalone moisturizer, can deliver an exceptional level of occlusive hydration that is adequate for dry to very skin. The occlusive profile of Clinique Superbalanced Silk Makeup Broad Spectrum SPF 15 suggests a rich, thick texture, making it perfectly suited for dry skin.

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

☀️☀️ Moderate Sun Protection for Short Outdoor Activities

With an SPF of 15, Clinique Superbalanced Silk Makeup Broad Spectrum SPF 15 provides moderate sun protection. It is suitable for individuals with medium to darker skin tones who are less prone to sunburn and those engaging in short outdoor activities such as walking or brief errands, as well as cloudy days when UV exposure is less intense.

It helps protect against UVB rays, which are primarily responsible for sunburn and increase the risk of skin cancer by damaging the outer layers of the skin. When labeled as broad-spectrum, it also defends against UVA rays, which penetrate deeper into the skin and cause premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and long-term cellular damage.

📌 For optimal protection, choose products labeled broad-spectrum to ensure defense against both UVA rays, which contribute to skin aging and pigmentation, and UVB rays that cause sunburn.

However, if you spend a substantial amount of time outdoors, it is better to use a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF 30 or higher.

📌 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 Superbalanced Silk Makeup Broad Spectrum SPF 15

 
CreamScan identified a few things to consider before adding Clinique Superbalanced Silk Makeup Broad Spectrum SPF 15 to your skincare routine:
 

⚠️ Best for Very Dry Skin - May Be Too Thick for Other Skin Types

With exceptional occlusivity, this product is optimal for moisturizing dry and very dry skin but may be too thick for other skin types, including normal, and especially combination and oily skin.

If you have oily, combination, or normal skin and are considering purchasing this product for the first time, it might be a good idea to try a sample before buying.

⚠️ Needs to Be Paired with Extra Humectants for Optimal Moisturizing Efficacy

An ideal moisturizer for any skin type should balance the right level of occlusivity (depending on skin type) with a significant amount of humectants, while Clinique Superbalanced Silk Makeup Broad Spectrum SPF 15 contains a relatively low level of humectants.

People with dry skin would definitely benefit from adding more humectants to their moisturizing routine beyond what this product offers. If this is your only moisturizer, it may be worth including a humectant-rich product, such as a serum, in your skincare routine.

Pros & Cons of Clinique Superbalanced Silk Makeup Broad Spectrum SPF 15

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of Clinique Superbalanced Silk Makeup Broad Spectrum SPF 15 to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

🟩 Pros:

Exceptionally rich moisturizer with the right level of occlusivity to moisturize dry to very dry skin
Provides moderate sun protection, suitable for short outdoor activities on cloudy or low-UV days
 

⭕ Cons: 

⚠️ May feel too rich and thick on skin types other than dry
⚠️ Only if used as a standalone moisturizer - needs to be paired with extra humectants for optimal moisturizing efficacy
   

Summary: Clinique Superbalanced Silk Makeup Broad Spectrum SPF 15

 
Based on the ingredient list analysis, CreamScan AI suggests that Clinique Superbalanced Silk Makeup Broad Spectrum SPF 15
, as a moisturizer, provides an exceptional level of occlusive hydration that is adequate for dry to very skin, delivered in a rich, thick texture.
 
With an SPF of 15, Clinique Superbalanced Silk Makeup Broad Spectrum SPF 15 offers moderate sun protection, making it suitable for short outdoor activities on cloudy or low-UV days.
 
That said, there are some things about Clinique Superbalanced Silk Makeup Broad Spectrum SPF 15 worth noting.
 
With its high occlusivity, Clinique Superbalanced Silk Makeup Broad Spectrum SPF 15 is ideal for dry skin but may feel too thick on other skin types. If you have oily, combination, or normal skin, it’s a good idea to try a sample before purchasing.
 
If you use this product as your only moisturizer in a routine, please note that it contains only a small amount of humectants. Regardless of your skin type, adding extra humectants can enhance optimal moisturizing efficacy. Therefore, it may be worth pairing Clinique Superbalanced Silk Makeup Broad Spectrum SPF 15 with a humectant-rich product, such as a serum, in your skincare routine.
 
📌 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
40
22
11
6
4
3
2
1.5
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
Est. %
Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Water
Function:
Origin:
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)
Function:
Origin:
Octinoxate
Function:
Origin:
Vinyl Dimethicone/Methicone Silsesquioxane Crosspolymer
Function:
Origin:
PEG-10 Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Octisalate
Function:
Origin:
Butylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Phenyl Trimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Isododecane
Function:
Origin:
Isodecyl Isononanoate
Function:
Origin:
Alcohol Denat.
Function:
Origin:
Lauryl PEG-9 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone Silylate
Function:
Origin:
Laminaria Saccharina Extract
Function:
Origin:
Silk Powder
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hyaluronate
Function:
Origin:
Triethoxycaprylylsilane
Function:
Origin:
Sorbitan Sesquioleate
Function:
Origin:
Tocopheryl Acetate
Function:
Origin:
Propylene Carbonate
Function:
Origin:
Polysilicone-11
Function:
Origin:
Lecithin
Function:
Origin:
Laureth-7
Function:
Origin:
Disteardimonium Hectorite
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone/PEG-10/15 Crosspolymer
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Chloride
Function:
Origin:
Silica
Function:
Origin:
Xanthan Gum
Function:
Origin:
Tetrasodium EDTA
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Mica
Function:
Origin:
Iron Oxides (CI 77491)
Function:
Origin:
Iron Oxides (CI 77492)
Function:
Origin:
Iron Oxides (CI 77499)
Function:
Origin:
Zinc Oxide
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
2.4
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
41.0
40.0
1.0
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
6.2
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 2.4 10
2.4
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 41.0 20
10.0
40.0
1.0
Moisturizing rating
6.2
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 2.4 10
2.4
All humectants
2.4
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
40
1
All occlusives 41.0 20
10.0
All occlusives
41.0
40.0
1.0
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
None
Total
0
None
Anti-wrinkle rating
0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 0.6 3 No
All antioxidants
0.6
Sodium Hyaluronate
0.3
Tocopheryl Acetate
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
0.3
All soothing 0.3 5 No
All soothing
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Dimethicone
Est. %40
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.
Water
Est. %22
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.
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)
Est. %11
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.
Octinoxate
Est. %6
Function
Origin
OctinoxateA chemical sunscreen also known as ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate. It protects against UVB, which causes the skin to burn and tan and can lead to certain types of skin cancers. For broad-spectrum protection claims, octinoxate should be paired with a UVA sunscreen.
Vinyl Dimethicone/Methicone Silsesquioxane Crosspolymer
Est. %4
Function
Origin
Vinyl Dimethicone/Methicone Silsesquioxane Crosspolymer
PEG-10 Dimethicone
Est. %3
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.
Octisalate
Est. %2
Function
Origin
OctisalateA UVB sunscreen also known as ethylhexyl salicylate. It is normally paired with UVA sunscreens to provide broad-spectrum protection. Octisalate also protects other ingredients, like colorants and antioxidants, from deterioration due to exposure to UV light.
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.

Phenyl Trimethicone
Est. %1
Function
Origin
Phenyl TrimethiconeA silicone fluid that is used as an occlusive moisturizer. It applies smoothly to the skin and reduces the tack associated with organic oils.
Isododecane
Est. %0.3
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.
Isodecyl Isononanoate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Isodecyl Isononanoate
Alcohol Denat.
Est. %0.3
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.

Lauryl PEG-9 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Lauryl PEG-9 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl DimethiconeA powerful emulsifier with the unique trait of being able to work in both oil- and silicone-based formulas. It can also function as a thickener in low concentrations.
Dimethicone Silylate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Dimethicone Silylate
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.
Silk Powder
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Silk Powder
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.

Triethoxycaprylylsilane
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
TriethoxycaprylylsilaneA binding and coating ingredient that allows pigments like iron oxides and mica to disperse better in oily environments. This leads to more vibrant colors.
Sorbitan Sesquioleate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sorbitan SesquioleateA natural liquid ingredient that is yellow to amber in color and completely transparent. It supports oil and water mixtures and disperses minerals into oils.
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.

Propylene Carbonate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Propylene CarbonateA derivative of propylene glycol that is used most frequently as a solvent. Additionally, propylene carbonate serves as a viscosity controlling agent reducing the thickness of the products it is added to.
Polysilicone-11
Est. %0.3
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.
Lecithin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
LecithinA humectant, emollient, and emulsifier best suited for water-in-oil emulsions. Lecithin can come from sunflowers, soy, and eggs. The downside to lecithin is that it causes an extra burden on the formula’s preservative because it is nutritious.
Laureth-7
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Laureth-7A mild but effective functional ingredient. It can emulsify (efficiently mix water and oil) without needing too much in a formula.
Disteardimonium Hectorite
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Disteardimonium HectoriteA clay ingredient that functions primarily as a viscosity controlling agent that thickens all types of formulas. Disteardimonium hectorite imparts a smooth, velvety feel, making it a luxurious addition to any formula.
Dimethicone/PEG-10/15 Crosspolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Dimethicone/PEG-10/15 CrosspolymerA self-emulsifying surfactant, which means that it can help facilitate the formation of water-in-silicone emulsions. This results in lightweight formulas with a soft finish. It can also act as a film-former and thickener.
Sodium Chloride
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Chloride

You’re definitely familiar with sodium chloride, even if you don’t think you are. It’s table salt! Salt works well with some cleansing ingredients (surfactants) to thicken them into gels. It also acts as a stabilizer for water-in-oil emulsions.

Silica
Est. %0.3
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.
Xanthan Gum
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Xanthan GumA natural multi-functional ingredient that originates from fermented sugars. Xanthan gum acts as a viscosity-building agent to thicken skincare products. It is also an excellent stabilizer and works well to hold other ingredients together.
Tetrasodium EDTA
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tetrasodium EDTAOne of the most common synthetic chelators. It can reduce the 'hardness' of water and so is often used in rinse-off products.
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.
Iron Oxides (CI 77491)
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Iron Oxides (CI 77491)A red colorant also known as red iron oxide. This is an EU-approved colorant used in a wide variety of products.
Iron Oxides (CI 77492)
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Iron Oxides (CI 77492)Also known as iron (III) oxide, this ingredient is a yellow-colored pigment that can either be derived from minerals or produced synthetically. It adds yellow tones to cosmetic products.
Iron Oxides (CI 77499)
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Iron Oxides (CI 77499)A black colorant also known as black iron oxide used in a wide range of skincare products.
Zinc Oxide
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Zinc OxideA white mineral powder mainly used in skincare as a physical sunscreen. It protects against UVA light that leads to visible signs of aging, including wrinkles and fine lines. Zinc oxide can also be used as a colorant to enhance the whiteness of a product.