Talk about an Internet success story! The most recent sample I acquired from Clinique was actually an invitation from the Clinique web site to try their new products. All you do is go to the Clinique web site and follow the links to new products. Just by giving them your name and email address, you can get a personalized print-out to take to the Clinique counter near you for your free samples.

The first sample I got was their new City Base Compact Foundation SPF 15, a cream-to-powder foundation in a compact. The sample was pretty tiny but lasted a long time. Unfortunately I didn't like the product enough to even finish the sample. Maybe it is because I am a loyal MAC Studio Fix user, but this product just didn't cut it for me. It reminded me of why I don't like most liquid (or cream) foundations. The City Base was a bit greasy, did not cover dark under eye circles even with repeated layering, and it didn't set very well. Both days I tried the product I ended up dusting a thin layer of Studio Fix over the top just to get rid of the shine. Sorry, Clinique, I appreciate the free sample, but no thumbs up here.