If summer’s exertions have proved a little too much for your skin – Clarins might just have the answer to your prayers with this clever little duo.
The first stage I used in combating the dreaded dryness was the Bi-Phase Intensive Serum. Packaged in a sturdy little blue glass bottle, this is the least ‘serum-y’ serum I have ever tried. Where others err on the side of gloopy, the HydraQuench is more like a light oil.
After shaking, two pumps is more than enough to cover my whole face, neck and décolletage. The formula immediately feels light and cooling, and it sinks in almost instantly. It’s here I should probably mention the scent – a bright summery floral, similar to Ralph Lauren‘s Polo fragrance. Since I tend to use these products in the morning it is a wonderfully floral start to the day, and a nice departure from the regular face cream scents. I have to say, when I first used the serum and cream, I was more than a little worried that the scent would be too much for my delicate skin, but I really shouldn’t have worried. I have only good things to say about the products!
So after leaving the serum to sink in for a minute, I follow up with the HydraQuench cream. Packaged in a blue glass jar with twist lid, the cream feels both hydrating and cooling when applied.
Like the serum, the scent is glorious, and it sinks easily into the skin. Whenever products claim to be ‘moisturizing’, I always worry that by lunchtime I will be sporting a glass-like sheen, but with Clarins, makeup applies evenly and easily and stays put all day long. Not only this, but my problem areas (namely the skin around my mouth which gets dry ridiculously fast) stay hydrated and healthy all day. If dryness isn’t a skin concern for you (lucky thing), you can also use both products for evening use. I have tried both as part of my nightly regime, along with a generous smear of Elizabeth Arden’s 8 Hour Cream, and I woke up with skin which felt healthy, and hydrated.
The serum is priced at £41.00 and the cream is priced at £34.00 and both are available at www.clarins.co.uk
