Light-to-medium coverage with a natural satin finish that tames T-zone shine while keeping cheeks comfortable.
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After a natural base that behaves on combo skin? Clinique Superbalanced gives light to medium coverage with a soft satin finish that keeps the T-zone fresher while leaving cheeks comfortable. Apply a thin layer, press in with a damp sponge, then set the centre of the face for tidy, all-day wear.
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Who it’s for / who should skip
For: Everyday, natural-looking coverage that steadies shine without flattening glow. Good fit if you want a classic, fragrance-free, oil-free base that plays nicely with skincare and does not feel heavy.
Skip or tweak: If you need all-day, sweat-proof wear or full coverage for marks, look to a long-wear liquid. If you are very dry, prep with a richer moisturiser or choose a creamier formula.
Performance
Superbalanced earns loyal fans for its “smart” feel on combination skin. The liquid sets to a soft satin that looks like skin, blurring redness and small marks while keeping the T-zone fresher for longer than dewy formulas. It is not a heavy shine-blocker, so plan on setting the centre of the face and carrying blot papers if you run oily.
On texture, it is kind when skin is well hydrated. If cheeks are flaky, it can catch on dry patches. Coverage builds to a solid medium with a second thin layer and remains flexible rather than mask-like. Flash photos behave well when you set lightly rather than baking.
Wear time: 6 to 8 hours for most, longer with primer and powder. In humidity it benefits from a mattifying base on nose and chin.
Ease of use
- Texture: Classic fluid that spreads easily with fingers, sponge, or brush.
- Application: For quickest school-run routines, apply a thin layer with fingers, then press a damp sponge to perfect the surface.
- Setting: Micro-fine translucent powder on T-zone keeps the satin finish in place without making it flat.
Note: The standard bottle does not include a pump. Decanting or using a reusable pump makes portioning easier.
Key features
- Oil-free, fragrance-free, dermatologist tested
- Designed to absorb oil where needed and hydrate where needed when layered over your skincare
- Plays well with silicone or water-based primers
- Natural satin finish that reads like skin in daylight
Shade range & undertones
Shades run fair to deep with cool, neutral, and warm options. Because coverage is lighter than full-coverage formulas, shade flexibility is forgiving. If between tones, you can sheer with a damp sponge or mix one drop of moisturiser.
Removal
Comes off clean with a balm or oil cleanse followed by your gentle face wash. Proper removal helps reduce the risk of clogged pores.
Comparisons
- vs Estée Lauder Double Wear: Double Wear has stronger oil control and longer wear. Superbalanced looks softer and more skin-like and feels lighter for daily use.
- vs Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless: Fit Me is budget friendly with more matte control but can read flatter. Superbalanced is smoother on normal areas and easier to build.
- vs tinted moisturiser: Tints are sheerer and dewier. Superbalanced offers more evening out while staying natural.
How to apply for best results
- Prep: Moisturise based on zone. Light gel on T-zone, richer cream on cheeks if dry.
- Prime: Smoothing or mattifying primer on the centre of the face only.
- Apply: Thin layer with fingers or brush. Press with a damp sponge to perfect.
- Set: Dust micro-fine powder on nose, chin, and between brows.
- Refresh: Blot papers at lunch. Top up with a tiny amount only where needed.
Pros / Cons
Pros
- Natural, skin-like satin finish
- Oil-free, fragrance-free, sensitive-friendly
- Builds from light to medium without caking
- Plays nicely with most primers and powders
Cons
- No pump on standard bottle
- Needs powder and blotting for very oily T-zones
- Can cling to dry patches without rich prep
Verdict
Clinique Superbalanced Oil-Free Liquid is a reliable, everyday base for combination skin that prefers natural satin over heavy matte. It is easy to apply, friendly to sensitive routines, and looks polished with minimal effort. It is not a heat-proof workhorse or a full-coverage camo, but for day-to-day wear it earns 4.4/5 for comfort, believable finish, and versatility.
FAQs
Is it non-comedogenic
It is oil-free and fragrance-free and generally friendly to combination and normal skin. Proper removal helps prevent build-up.
What primer works best
Use a mattifying primer on the centre of the face and a smoothing primer on textured areas. Keep primer thin so the finish stays natural.
Can I get full coverage
It builds to a true medium. For full coverage, use targeted concealer or consider a long-wear foundation.
Does it oxidise
Oxidation is minimal for most users. Let it set for a minute before judging shade.
How do I stop it clinging to dry patches
Hydrate first, allow moisturiser to set, then apply with a damp sponge and avoid over-powdering cheeks.
See also
For a comprehensive guide to foundations suitable for combination and mature skin, see Best foundations for combination, mature skin.
- Discover options for warmer weather with our selection of Lightweight foundations for summer.
- If you need coverage tailored for texture issues, explore our roundup of foundation picks that deliver realistic finishes.
- Compare reviews like the Make Up For Ever HD Skin foundation review for high-definition coverage.
- Check out the Fenty Pro Filt’r soft-matte longwear review for a long-lasting, soft-matte alternative.