Clinique Maximum Hydrator Activated Water-Gel Concentrate 1.6 oz

Common questions

Is Clinique Maximum Hydrator Activated Water-Gel Concentrate 1.6 oz healthy?

Clinique Maximum Hydrator Activated Water-Gel Concentrate 1.6 oz scores 60/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This moisturizer contains several beneficial ingredients like glycerin, aloe vera, and sodium hyaluronate, which provide hydration and soothing properties.

Which ingredients drive Clinique Maximum Hydrator Activated Water-Gel Concentrate 1.6 oz's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Glycerin, Alteromonas Ferment Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Water count in its favor; Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Benzophenone-4, Disodium EDTA are flagged as ingredients of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

You might also like

See more

Clinique Maximum Hydrator Activated Water-Gel Concentrate 1.6 oz

Clinique
60 Fair

Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores

$52.00 · 1.6 fl oz · $32.50 / ounce
View on Amazon
Verified Amazon match

At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 9
Harmful ingredients 6
Owned by Estée Lauder Companies
Category Moisturizer
Summary

This moisturizer contains several beneficial ingredients like glycerin, aloe vera, and sodium hyaluronate, which provide hydration and soothing properties. However, the presence of potentially harmful ingredients such as Benzophenone-4, BHT, and Chlorphenesin raises concerns due to their links to endocrine disruption and skin irritation. The product's processing level and inclusion of synthetic additives further impact its overall rating.

Key ingredients 35

Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Water
Very Good

Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Water is derived from aloe vera and is known for its soothing and hydrating properties. It helps in calming irritated skin and provides moisture. It is suitable for all skin types, especially sensitive skin.

Risks

There are minimal risks, though some individuals may experience allergic reactions.

Benefits

It soothes and hydrates the skin, reducing redness and irritation.

See more about Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Water →
Glycerin
Good

Glycerin is a humectant that attracts moisture to the skin, improving hydration. It is well-tolerated and suitable for all skin types. It enhances the skin's natural barrier function.

Risks

There are minimal risks, though overuse can lead to a sticky feeling.

Benefits

Glycerin helps maintain skin hydration and smoothness.

See more about Glycerin →
Alteromonas Ferment Extract
Good

Alteromonas Ferment Extract is derived from marine bacteria and is known for its moisturizing and soothing properties. It helps in protecting the skin from environmental stressors. It is beneficial for sensitive and dry skin.

Risks

There are no significant risks associated with this ingredient.

Benefits

It provides hydration and protection against environmental damage.

Algae Extract
Good

Algae Extract is rich in vitamins and minerals that nourish the skin. It helps in improving skin texture and hydration. It is beneficial for anti-aging and skin rejuvenation.

Risks

There are minimal risks, though it may cause irritation in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

It provides nourishment and improves skin elasticity.

See more about Algae Extract →
Hydrolyzed Rice Extract
Good

Hydrolyzed Rice Extract is known for its moisturizing and soothing properties. It helps in improving skin texture and elasticity. It is beneficial for sensitive and dry skin.

Risks

There are minimal risks, though it may cause irritation in some individuals.

Benefits

It provides hydration and improves skin smoothness.

Acetyl Glucosamine
Good

Acetyl Glucosamine is a skin-conditioning agent that helps in improving skin hydration and texture. It is beneficial for reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It is suitable for all skin types.

Risks

There are minimal risks, though it may cause irritation in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

It enhances skin hydration and reduces signs of aging.

See more about Acetyl Glucosamine →
Sodium Hyaluronate
Good

Sodium Hyaluronate is a form of hyaluronic acid that provides intense hydration to the skin. It helps in retaining moisture and improving skin elasticity. It is suitable for all skin types and is highly effective in reducing dryness.

Risks

There are minimal risks, though it may cause irritation in rare cases.

Benefits

It provides deep hydration and plumps the skin, reducing fine lines.

See more about Sodium Hyaluronate →
Tocopheryl Acetate
Good

Tocopheryl Acetate is a form of Vitamin E that provides antioxidant protection to the skin. It helps in reducing the effects of environmental damage and improving skin texture. It is suitable for all skin types.

Risks

There are minimal risks, though it may cause irritation in rare cases.

Benefits

It provides antioxidant protection and improves skin health.

See more about Tocopheryl Acetate →
Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate
Good

Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate is a stable form of Vitamin C that provides antioxidant protection and brightens the skin. It helps in reducing the appearance of fine lines and improving skin tone. It is suitable for all skin types.

Risks

There are minimal risks, though it may cause irritation in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

It provides antioxidant protection and improves skin radiance.

See more about Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate →
Water
Neutral

Water is a common solvent used in cosmetics to dissolve other ingredients. It is essential for hydration but does not provide active benefits on its own. It serves as a base for the formulation.

Risks

There are no significant risks associated with water in cosmetics.

Benefits

Water helps in hydrating the skin by providing moisture.

See more about Water →
Butylene Glycol
Neutral

Butylene Glycol is a solvent and conditioning agent that helps improve the texture of the product. It aids in the penetration of other ingredients. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.

Risks

In rare cases, it may cause irritation or allergic reactions.

Benefits

It helps in improving the spreadability and absorption of the product.

See more about Butylene Glycol →
Phenyl Trimethicone
Neutral

Phenyl Trimethicone is a silicone that provides a smooth application and enhances the feel of the product. It forms a protective barrier on the skin. It is non-comedogenic and suitable for most skin types.

Risks

May cause build-up on the skin if not cleansed properly.

Benefits

It provides a silky texture and reduces moisture loss.

See more about Phenyl Trimethicone →
Propanediol
Neutral

Propanediol is a glycol that acts as a solvent and skin-conditioning agent. It enhances the absorption of other ingredients. It is derived from corn sugar and is considered safe for use.

Risks

May cause irritation in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

It improves the texture and moisture retention of the product.

See more about Propanediol →
Sucrose
Neutral

Sucrose is a sugar that acts as a natural exfoliant and humectant. It helps in retaining moisture and improving skin texture. It is generally safe for topical use.

Risks

Overuse may lead to skin irritation.

Benefits

Sucrose helps in gentle exfoliation and hydration.

See more about Sucrose →
Hydroxyethyl Urea
Neutral

Hydroxyethyl Urea is a moisturizing agent that helps in improving skin hydration. It is non-irritating and suitable for sensitive skin. It enhances the skin's moisture content.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with its use.

Benefits

It provides effective hydration without a greasy feel.

See more about Hydroxyethyl Urea →
Cholesterol
Neutral

Cholesterol is a lipid that helps in maintaining the skin's barrier function. It is essential for skin health and hydration. It is well-tolerated and suitable for most skin types.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with its use.

Benefits

It helps in restoring the skin's natural barrier and retaining moisture.

See more about Cholesterol →
Trehalose
Neutral

Trehalose is a sugar that acts as a humectant, helping to retain moisture in the skin. It protects the skin from dehydration and environmental stress. It is considered safe for use in cosmetics.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with its use.

Benefits

It helps in maintaining skin hydration and resilience.

See more about Trehalose →
Pentaerythrityl Tetraethylhexanoate
Neutral

Pentaerythrityl Tetraethylhexanoate is an emollient that helps in improving the texture and feel of the product. It provides a smooth application and enhances skin softness. It is generally considered safe for use.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with its use.

Benefits

It improves the spreadability and feel of the product.

Sorbitol
Neutral

Sorbitol is a sugar alcohol that acts as a humectant, helping to retain moisture in the skin. It is used to improve the texture and hydration of the product. It is generally safe for use in cosmetics.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with its use.

Benefits

It helps in maintaining skin hydration and smoothness.

See more about Sorbitol →
Sodium Polyaspartate
Neutral

Sodium Polyaspartate is a conditioning agent that helps in improving skin texture and hydration. It is derived from aspartic acid and is considered safe for use. It enhances the moisture retention of the product.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with its use.

Benefits

It helps in maintaining skin hydration and smoothness.

Caffeine
Neutral

Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.

Risks

There are minimal risks, though it may cause irritation in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

It reduces puffiness and improves skin appearance.

See more about Caffeine →
Sodium Hydroxide
Neutral

Sodium Hydroxide is used to adjust the pH of cosmetic formulations. It is effective in small amounts and ensures product stability. It is generally considered safe when used appropriately.

Risks

In high concentrations, it can be irritating to the skin.

Benefits

It helps in maintaining the stability and effectiveness of the product.

See more about Sodium Hydroxide →
Carbomer
Neutral

Carbomer is a thickening agent that helps in stabilizing emulsions and providing a smooth texture. It is widely used in cosmetics for its ability to create gels. It is considered safe for use.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with its use.

Benefits

It provides a smooth texture and stabilizes the product.

See more about Carbomer →
Dextrin Palmitate
Neutral

Dextrin Palmitate is an emulsifier that helps in improving the texture and stability of the product. It provides a smooth application and enhances skin feel. It is generally considered safe for use.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with its use.

Benefits

It improves the texture and stability of the product.

See more about Dextrin Palmitate →
Dehydroxanthan Gum
Neutral

Dehydroxanthan Gum is a thickening agent that helps in stabilizing emulsions and providing a smooth texture. It is derived from xanthan gum and is considered safe for use. It enhances the viscosity of the product.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with its use.

Benefits

It provides a smooth texture and stabilizes the product.

Citric Acid
Neutral

Citric Acid is used to adjust the pH of cosmetic formulations and acts as an antioxidant. It helps in maintaining product stability and effectiveness. It is generally considered safe for use.

Risks

In high concentrations, it can be irritating to the skin.

Benefits

It helps in maintaining the stability and effectiveness of the product.

See more about Citric Acid →
Pentaerythrityl Tetra-Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate
Neutral

This ingredient is an antioxidant that helps in protecting the product from oxidation. It enhances the stability and shelf life of the product. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with its use.

Benefits

It protects the product from oxidation and extends shelf life.

See more about Pentaerythrityl Tetra-Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate →
Sodium Citrate
Neutral

Sodium Citrate is used to adjust the pH of cosmetic formulations and acts as a buffering agent. It helps in maintaining product stability and effectiveness. It is generally considered safe for use.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with its use.

Benefits

It helps in maintaining the stability and effectiveness of the product.

See more about Sodium Citrate →
Green 6 (CI 61565)
Neutral

Green 6 is a synthetic colorant used to provide color to cosmetic products. It is approved for use in cosmetics and is considered safe when used within regulatory limits. It enhances the visual appeal of the product.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with its use.

Benefits

It provides color to the product, enhancing its appearance.

Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer
Bad

Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with its use.

Benefits

It enhances the texture and stability of the product.

See more about Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer →
Disodium EDTA
Bad

Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with its use.

Benefits

It stabilizes the product and extends shelf life.

See more about Disodium EDTA →
BHT
Bad

BHT is an antioxidant used to prevent product oxidation, but it is associated with potential health concerns. It may cause skin irritation and has been linked to endocrine disruption. It is considered a controversial ingredient in cosmetics.

Risks

It may cause skin irritation and has potential endocrine-disrupting effects.

Benefits

It prevents product oxidation and extends shelf life.

See more about BHT →
Chlorphenesin
Bad

Chlorphenesin is a preservative that helps in preventing microbial growth in cosmetics. However, it is associated with potential skin irritation and allergic reactions. It is considered a controversial ingredient in cosmetics.

Risks

It may cause skin irritation and allergic reactions.

Benefits

It prevents microbial growth and extends product shelf life.

See more about Chlorphenesin →
Phenoxyethanol
Bad

Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.

Risks

In high concentrations, it may cause skin irritation.

Benefits

It prevents microbial growth and extends product shelf life.

See more about Phenoxyethanol →
Benzophenone-4
Very Bad

Benzophenone-4 is a UV filter that helps in protecting the product from degradation. However, it is associated with potential endocrine disruption and skin irritation. It is considered a harmful ingredient in cosmetics.

Risks

It may cause skin irritation and has potential endocrine-disrupting effects.

Benefits

It provides UV protection for the product, preventing degradation.

See more about Benzophenone-4 →

Get the full breakdown in the Scout appTake Scout shopping

Scan any product to see lab results, healthy alternatives, and your personalized analysis.

Download on theApp Store GET IT ONGoogle Play
Amazon pricing & content

Amazon price as of . Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED “AS IS” AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.

More in Moisturizer