Clinique Smart Clinical Repair Wrinkle Correcting Serum

How to Use for Sensitive Skin

For sensitive skin, start with once every 2-3 evenings for first 2 weeks to assess tolerance. Apply to completely dry skin 20-30 minutes after cleansing to reduce penetration speed. Use only 1 pump initially, focusing on forehead, cheeks, and chin while avoiding delicate eye area and any compromised areas. If no irritation after 2 weeks, increase to every other evening, then nightly after another 2 weeks. Add morning application only after 4-6 weeks of comfortable evening use. If irritation occurs, reduce frequency rather than discontinuing and apply over moisturizer to buffer. Takes 8-12 weeks to see results with gradual introduction. Pair with fragrance-free, ceramide-rich moisturizer and mineral sunscreen. Avoid combining with AHA/BHA or vitamin C initially.

Important Considerations

• 1 Despite gentleness, still introduce gradually - start every other evening for 1-2 weeks, then increase frequency as tolerated
• 2 Temporary warmth or mild tingling in first few uses is normal and typically subsides - discontinue only if persistent redness or burning occurs
• 3 Avoid application when skin barrier is compromised from over-exfoliation, harsh weather, or other treatments
• 4 May still cause purging in first 2-4 weeks as cell turnover increases - this is different from irritation and should resolve
• 5 Extremely reactive rosacea or eczema-prone skin should patch test first and consider starting with every third night application
• 6 Must use SPF 30+ daily as even gentle retinoids increase photosensitivity

How to Use for Dry/Dehydrated Skin

Apply to slightly damp skin after cleansing for enhanced hyaluronic acid effectiveness - pat face with towel but leave slightly moist. Use 1-2 pumps morning and evening, spreading gently over face and neck. Wait 30-60 seconds for absorption, then apply rich moisturizer while skin is still slightly dewy. For very dry skin, consider layering hyaluronic acid toner underneath this serum, then sealing with ceramide-rich moisturizer and facial oil at night. In dry climates or winter, add occlusive sleeping mask as final PM step. Always follow with SPF in morning. If experiencing dryness, reduce to once-daily evening use and increase moisturizer richness before discontinuing, as skin typically adjusts within 2-3 weeks.

Important Considerations

• 1 Not a standalone moisturizer - must be followed with appropriate moisturizer for your dryness level, especially in dry climates or winter
• 2 Initial retinoid adjustment may cause temporary dryness or flaking in first 2 weeks - reduce frequency if this occurs and increase moisturizer
• 3 The silicone-heavy base provides slip and prevents moisture loss but some may find it too lightweight for severe dehydration
• 4 Works best when applied to damp skin to maximize hyaluronic acid's moisture-binding capacity
• 5 Very dry skin may need facial oil or occlusive sleeping mask layered over this at night