Five simple steps to achieve a natural look …
The Clarins X THE GLOSS exclusive event at Clarins Boutique & Spa in Dublin saw Clarins’ training manager Bronwyn Conway and THE GLOSS beauty editor Sarah Halliwell share expert advice for the perfect skincare routine.
The audience tested new launches with the Extra-Firming range – more on that below – plus familiar favourites such as the One-Step Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser, Beauty Flash Peel and Balm for an easy and effective route to brighter skin.
1. Essences: Your first step after cleansing, before applying your serum and creams, Essences are formulated to deliver an instant and refreshing hit of hydration. Using an essence means that you use less of your other products, meaning they’ll go further and last longer. There’s a variety of Clarins Essences to choose from, each with active ingredients from the complementary skincare line, from Super Restorative to Extra-Firming.
2. Serums: Clarins’ Double Serum, with 22 plant extracts and 95 per cent naturally sourced ingredients, has won a wealth of industry awards. It’s famous for selling one bottle every few seconds worldwide as it suits every skin type and the specially designed packaging delivers the right amount of product every time. Those of us devoted to this serum – and we know of many, including several aged in their eighties – know and love it for lasting hydration and enhanced radiance.
3. Extra-Firming: This new range helps the skin build up reserves of the vital protein collagen. Emulsion is an excellent hydrating option if you prefer something lighter, especially in the summer months, while the night cream supports skin in repair mode. As well as a comprehensive range of textures and soft rose scent, we love that the products are recyclable, saving on waste and cost.
4. SPF: UVA levels are just as high on cloudy days and even through glass, so it’s important to wear a separate SPF instead of relying on any coverage in make-up or moisturiser. Clarins UV+ is a range of wearable SPFs with a primer-like texture and finish, with travel sizes useful for top-ups. If only we could go back to our twenties and be more diligent about sun protection …
5. Fragrance: For an additional boost, Eau Dynamisante is an energising scent that feels uplifting, with red ginseng extract, and notes of sweet and bitter orange, mandarin and petitgrain, eucalyptus, tarragon and nutmeg. Created in 1987 by Jacques Courtin-Clarins, it was the first Treatment Fragrance combining essential oils and plant extracts – the principles of aromatherapy and phytotherapy – to fight off bouts of fatigue. Its iconic red bottle is also refillable.
