Clinique

Summary

Clinique Laboratories, subsidiary of the Estée Lauder Companies, is a manufacturer of allergy tested, dermatologist-driven line of skincare, cosmetics, toiletries and fragrances.

History

In 1967, Vogue magazine published an article titled ‘Can Great Skin Be Created?’ written by beauty editor Carol Phillips and New York- based dermatologist Dr. Norman Orentreich, discussing the significance of a three-step skincare routine. Evelyn Lauder, daughter-in-law of Estée Lauder, read the article and tired of using one-size-fits-all creams, collaborated with Carol Phillips and Norman Orentreich to develop dermatological- driven skincare and cosmetics. In 1968, Clinique premiered as the world’s first allergy-tested, dermatologist-driven brand at Saks Fifth Avenue, New York.

As training director for Clinique, Evelyn Lauder was instrumental in developing and marketing new products, sales training and branding. She conceived the name Clinique after a visit to Paris where she couldn’t help noticing signs of “Clinique Esthétiques” where women went to get facials and treatments. She loved the word for suggesting a clinical approach to skincare with a hint of glamour — and immediately coined the name of the brand. The new brand’s packaging was equally chic—a pale celadon green color that was chosen for its soothing appeal which debuted with a hundred and seventeen products, the core being a three-step skincare: cleanse, exfoliate and moisturise. All products are fragrance free and allergy tested. A new standard was set at beauty counters, with consultants wearing clinical white lab coats and the Clinique Computer, a non-electronic box of levers, determined individual skin type and skincare needs, and offered a highly informative tailored consultation.

Compelling advertising contributed to the growth of the brand. In one advertisement, a white toothbrush was perched in a glass, positioned opposite a trio of Clinique products—one each to represent cleanse, exfoliate and moisturise—with the tagline: Twice a Day. The message was graphic, bold and simple: commit to the three-step system just as you would commit to brushing teeth twice a day. Whats more, La Clinique La Prairie, acclaimed for treating the elite set with medical and wellness programs since 1931, has been on the cutting edge of better-aging treatments for nearly a century.

In 2008, Clinique collaborated with Allergan, the maker of Botox and former cosmeceutical partner of Elizabeth Arden, to develop a new line titled Clinique Medical — available only in physician’s offices. The five-product set was designed for pre- and post-operation skincare including redness, tightness, burning, irritation and skin discolouration. In 2020, Clinique announced British actress Emilia Clarke as Global Ambassador. In another key movement, Michelle Freyre joined Clinique as Senior Vice President, Global General Manager, responsible for innovation, product development and marketing, consumer and digital engagement.

Mission Statement

To provide the safest, most effective formulas in simple routines that bring remarkable results.

References

https://www.theguardian.com/fashion/fashion-blog/2011/oct/31/brief-history-of-clinique

https://www.clinique.com/thewink/eye-on-carol-phillips

https://www.forbes.com/sites/meggentaylor/2020/04/16/doctors-from-the-world-renowned-clinique-la-prairie-spa-share-their-top-tips-to-boost-immunity/