Clinique has expanded with a new Daily Calm collection designed to address the needs of patients with sensitive and reactive skin, combining clinically evaluated skin care with color cosmetics aimed at improving both visible symptoms and the patient experience. In an exclusive interview with Dermatology Times, Michael Ingrassia, PhD, vice president of Advanced Technologies, and Ida Wong, MBA, vice president of Global Product Development, discussed the science behind the collection, including its focus on calming inflammation, supporting the skin barrier, and addressing the emotional burden associated with sensitive skin.
A key component of the Daily Calm formulations is Uniflavon, a proprietary ingredient blend inspired by traditional Chinese medicine. The ingredient combines extracts from bamboo leaves and Scutellaria baicalensis (skullcap) root, both of which are rich in flavonoids. According to Ingrassia, research into these botanical-derived compounds demonstrated their ability to inhibit key enzymes involved in inflammatory pathways, translating into calming, anti-irritation, and smoothing benefits for sensitive skin.
To evaluate the efficacy of the collection, Clinique used the Burden of Sensitive Skin (BoSS) questionnaire to recruit participants with clinically characterized sensitive skin rather than relying solely on self-reported sensitivity. The validated assessment evaluates visible and sensory symptoms of sensitive skin as well as its effect on quality of life. The resulting clinical and sensory studies were designed to better reflect the experiences of patients who routinely manage redness, dryness, discomfort, and reactivity.
Notable Findings from the State of Calm Survey
- 54% of patients said makeup irritates their skin too much to use it frequently
- 56% of patients said they are constantly checking ingredients on products
- 59% of patients had skipped events due to their sensitive skin condition
- 61% of patients often adjusted their daily routines around their sensitive skin
- 62% of patients said managing their sensitive skin is always on their mind
- 65% of patients felt they had to choose between protecting sensitivity and addressing other concerns like aging or hyperpigmentation
- 69% of patients wish they could wear makeup even during a flare-up
- Nearly 70% of patients believe skin irritation contributes to early signs of aging and has a long-term impact on skin health
- 72% of patients reported their mood was impacted by how their skin looked
- 82% of patients wish products for sensitive skin were effective but safe
The Daily Calm collection includes a cleanser and soothing repair cream, as well as color cosmetic products such as a balm and lip and cheek color designed to provide immediate cosmetic benefits while supporting long-term skin comfort. Wong emphasized that patients with sensitive skin often face limitations when selecting makeup products, particularly during periods of flare-ups. By incorporating color cosmetics into the franchise, the collection aims to provide camouflage for visible irritation while maintaining compatibility with reactive skin.
“We can't underestimate the emotional impact a skin concern like this can have on a patient, and how meaningful and transformational it can be when there is an accessible solution to address the problem,” Wong said.
Clinique’s global State of Calm survey further highlighted the broader impact of sensitive skin beyond physical symptoms. Findings showed that 62% of respondents reported that managing sensitive skin was always on their mind, while 61% adjusted their daily routines because of their skin concerns. Additionally, 72% reported that their mood was affected by the appearance of their skin, and 59% had skipped events because of their sensitive skin.
For dermatology clinicians, Ingrassia and Wong noted that sensitive skin should be viewed as a biologically characterized condition rather than simply a perception. With sensitivity affecting a substantial proportion of the population, the Daily Calm franchise reflects an ongoing shift toward products that combine efficacy, tolerability, and an improved patient experience.
“Our mantra has always been gentle but efficacious products,” Ingrassia said. “So we're really proud of this launch, and proud of our heritage.”
