The Essentials Eye Makeup Palette & Instant Light Lip Comfort Oil by Clarins: Review & Swatches

When I first laid eyes on the Essentials Eye Makeup Palette by Clarins I knew it was a match made in makeup heaven. These bold, brilliant shades coincide with my style perfectly and whether I’m in the office or heading to a swanky event it provides the versatility to create a variety of fashionable looks. The development of these products also supports the Pur Project - dedicated to helping the Amazonian Indian community preserve their autonomy and culture. The packaging is eco-friendly and traditional plant ingredients in the formula nourish, heal and comfort the skin.

The finishes range from neutral, satin, matte, shimmer and glitter for an interesting assortment of textural contrast and the 10 flattering hues are suitable for all complexions. The first half of the palette contains neutral, soft tones that are great for daily wear and fresh spring looks. The pigmentation varies by shade but for the most part the shadows are buildable (when used with a good primer) for more vibrancy. The glittery hues are bright and luminous but tend to apply a bit chunky so blending is necessary and the particles do create some fallout.

The grey-purple hue in the middle is very sheer and difficult to enhance but beyond that, towards the deeper end of the spectrum things really start to pick up! The dark, smoky purples are gorgeous and I love the shimmery rose-gold purple, matte plum and blackened purple with red flecks. The texture is quite smooth and some shades are a bit creamy for easy blending. This side of the palette is also more concentrated for full-coverage, crease sculpting and definition. Overall I think certain colors could use more pigmentation, consistency and intensity but I am able to create some stunning effects. The Essentials Palette retails for $62.00.

The Lip Oil in the shade Red Berry smells sweet and delicious! I love the seasonal packaging and the juicy color makes lips appear healthy, plump and luminous. The consistency of the oil is a bit thick when removing the wide paddle applicator (great for one-swipe coverage) but it spreads well, melts in and nourishes instantly with no stickiness or grease. For dry, peeling lips and winter care, the formula heals, protects and alleviates with loads of long lasting moisture.

I also use it as a hydrating lip treatment prior to applying full-coverage lipstick, lacquer or matte formulas. Start by applying a generous amount to coat the lips, let it soak in for about 10 mins (or until you finish your makeup) and blot off the excess. The oil retails for $25.00 and Clarins is available at clarins.ca, department stores and select drugstores including Hudson’s Bay and Shoppers Drug Mart.