So, for the past week I’ve been trying out Clinique’s 3 step programme.

Because, not all of us can afford a one to one consultation with a dermatologist, Clinique (with the help of dermatologists of course) has developed a skin care programme tailored to each individual skin type. All products are fragrance free but they vary in strength depending on your skin.

To kick things off, you have to fill in a questionnaire which asks a series of questions to determine your skin type. Once you’re done, Clinique suggests the best products from the range for you. I have very dry and sensitive skin so I was diagnosed as Type 1. So, my three step programme consists of:

Liquid facial soap extra-mild – This doesn’t feel like a facial wash at all, instead it feels more like a moisturizer. It acts like a cleanser and facial wash combined. I was a bit worried that it wouldn’t remove much dirt, but I can confirm that it does. It feels gorgeous and set my skin up nicely for the second step.

Clarifying Lotion 1 – Any dirt that may be left on the skin from the first step will definitely be removed with the clarifying lotion. Don’t let the name fool you, it’s not a lotion, but more of a toner. Because I have dry skin I’m not too keen on using toners as they often leave my skin feeling raw. That wasn’t the case for me with the clarifying lotion. Also, the liquid facial soap did most of the work, so it wasn’t necessary to use much of the clarifying lotion.

Dramatically different moisturizing lotion (very dry to dry combination) – Now this was the best part of the programme for me. I love this lotion. Like the facial wash, it feels amazing. But and it’s a BIG but, I do think it has to be used as part of the programme. When I tried it without going through step 1 and 2, my skin couldn’t breathe.

Results so far? None to speak of, (admittedly, it has only been a week), but I have nothing bad to report either. One good thing that’s come out of the programme, is that it’s forced me to get into a proper skin care routine. I usually skip the whole cleansing and toning and just wash my face twice a day.

I don’t have bad skin but I am prone to a pimple or two, so I’m hoping to see clearer skin in the next week…..a bit too optimistic? Perhaps. I’ll be checking in with my thoughts on the products over the next couple of weeks so stay tuned…