Clinique A Different Nail Enamel Review + the Best 2025 Dupe
This is product review for Clinique A Different Nail Enamel.
JUNE 2025 UPDATE: Many SC Readers expressed interested in where to buy this Discontinued Clinique nail polish on this Style Chicks Discontinued Clinique products comment thread.
This original product review for Clinique A Different Nail Enamel has been updated with:
- sources where to buy Discontinued Clinique nail polish in 2025
- other nail polish brands for sensitive skin with alternate options and dupes.
Why I Tried Clinique A Different Nail Enamel
I love a pretty polish but struggle with sensitive skin and irritated cuticles. Even many 3-free formulas irritate my skin.
So when Clinique released a nail polish designed for sensitive skin and eyes, I had to try it.
Clinique makes dermatologist-developed and allergy-tested products. How would their nail enamel perform? Here is my experience.
What Makes This Nail Enamel Different?
Clinique A Different Nail Enamel is gentle enough for individuals with sensitive skin and eye sensitivities, including contact dermatitis. Here is what makes it special:
- Free from common chemical irritants formaldehyde, toluene, and DBP
- Dermatologist and ophthalmologist tested
- 100% fragrance-free and allergy-tested
Clinique A Different Nail Enamel Shades
Gorgeous colors and safe for sensitive skin, I chose 2 colors.
I tried out both Fizzy and Sweet Tooth.
- Fizzy is the color that appears in most of their product marketing ads. It is a gorgeous metallic nude.
- Sweet tooth is a very transparent pink that is akin to one coat of Essie Ballet Slipper, but not quite as pale.
THE Clinique A Different Nail Enamel EXPERIENCE
Both are great colors.
Fizzy shows goofs a bit more prominently than Sweet Tooth, which is understandable for a metallic. Granted, I am a complete klutz when it comes to home nail polish application.
But Sweet Tooth was a go-to color most weeks. And in does, in fact, last a week, which is great.
The Top Coat and Base Coat of the line is also great. First off, there isn’t much point using a sensitive skin formula polish and an irritating base/top coat, but this stands as a great product on it’s own.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Sensitive-friendly formula | Now discontinued, so limited availability |
| Long-lasting wear (7 days) | Metallic shade Fizzy can show nail ridges |
| Clean, polished look with Sweet Tooth | Slightly pricier ($12.50) |
How long does it last? My Experience
- Application: Smooth and easy to apply, even for a novice like me
- Dry Time: Reasonable not super fast but not frustrating
- Durability: Sweet Tooth lasted a full 7 days without chipping
I also used Clinique’s matching Top/Base Coat, which is essential for maintaining a non-irritating routine. It enhanced shine and longevity without adding any irritation.
Alternatives for Sensitive Skin
If you can’t find Clinique nail polish, here are some other sensitive-skin-friendly nail polish brands:
- Zoya: Big 10-Free, vegan, great for sensitive users.
- Butter London: Fashion-forward and toxin-free.
- Deborah Lippmann Gel Lab Pro: Long wear and nourishing.
- Ella + Mila: 7-Free and cruelty-free.
- Kapa Nui Nails: Non-toxic, chemical-free. Safe for children. Read our Kapa Nui Nails review
CONCLUSION
Both were versatile and flattering.
If you like Essie’s Mademoiselle or Sugar Daddy, definitely give Sweet Tooth a shot.
Where to Buy Clinique A Different Nail Enamel in 2025
Clinique A Different Nail Enamel has been discontinued. There are still a few sources where to buy it:
- eBay (always check seller feedback ratings before buying)
- Walmart.com (from third-party sellers)
- Our Discontinued Clinique Product Guide for 18 legit sources to buy discontinued Clinique to still buy Clinique A Different Nail Enamel.
Tip: Always check expiration dates and seller reviews when purchasing discontinued products. And make sure the nail enamel is not starting to seperate before buying.
More Clinique Products You Make Like
Love Clinique? Check out our other Clinique product reviews and guides for sensitive skin:
