Clarins 2017 Limited Edition Summer Makeup Collection & Skincare

If you aren’t vacationing in the tropics this summer then why not enjoy the botanical patterns and bright orange shades in the Clarins Summer Collection. These warm, earthy hues will keep you stylish whether you’re on a beach in the Bahamas or sipping lemonade in your own backyard and the amber packaging is beautiful!

The 4 Color Eye Shadow Palette is definitely on the subtle side with creamy beige, sheer gold and muted bronze but the punch of iridescent coral (which has good color payoff) makes a statement and is very trendy for the season. I also use the coral with deeper shades in my makeup collection to create dramatic contrast in the crease but if you like soft hues, these are easy on the eyes and compliment bronzed skin.

The powders are composed of 100% pure mineral and plant pigments for a smooth, seamless finish and lightweight silkiness. The colors are not very intense and a few of the shadows could use more saturation but with a good primer and a few layers, you can create beautiful looks. The palette retails for $42.00.

To accentuate sunkissed skin, the waterproof eye pencils in Gold and Copper look stunning on the lower or upper lash lines. When used around the tear ducts they also highlight and make the eyes appear wide and bright with a pretty metallic tinge. The creamy formula glides on effortlessly and once set, the color holds up well with a durable waterproof finish. If you don’t have a good gold shadow you can totally wear these on the lids and they come with a smudge brush for blending. The pencils retail for $27.00 each.

The Bronzing & Blush Compact contains three matte shades and a sheer coral blush designed to produce a customized effect with light optimizing particles. On my skin the browns appear quite mellow and neutral but they do retain a warm, bronzy tint which I can layer to create subtle definition. The pigment blends seamlessly with a flesh tone finish so I can use it to deepen the hollows of my face and create natural looking contrast around the forehead and jaw line. The blush is beautiful and the coral-orange hue is flattering on all complexions. Although the pigmentation isn’t intense, it is buildable so you can enhance the color for a pop of summer radiance. The compact retails for $42.00.

While enjoying some fun in the sun it’s important to keep your pout protected and hydrated which is why I love the Natural Lip Perfectors. These creamy treatments nourish, soften, moisturize and heal with a conditioning blend of wild mango butter and African shea. They also boost the synthesis of hyaluronic acid and fight free radicals with a lightweight, non sticky texture and juicy shine. The sun-ripened fruity scents of pink grapefruit and sweet mandarin are delicious and the transparent finish with sheer pink tint makes lips look healthy, plump and luminous. These Lip Perfectors are limited edition and retail for $20.00.

If you plan to show-off some skin this summer, you probably want your body to look as good as your makeup so Clarins has released the Body Fit Anti-Cellulite Contouring Expert ($68.00). In combination with a healthy lifestyle - exercise and a balanced diet, the cream is formulated to reduce the look of cellulite by lifting and firming the hips, legs and thighs for a smooth, toned silhouette. Along with optimum slimming results, Body Fit also moisturizes and nourishes with 7 plant extracts, organic aquatic mint, hazelnut oil, sunflower, phospholipids, horse chestnut and more.

I use the cream with the Multi-Mass Self-Massage Device to facilitate penetration and speed up results. The massager polishes, strengthens, firms and reduces fluid retention on the hips, thighs and buttocks while removing impurities and dead cells. It also helps soothe the legs and lower back to reduce pain and tension. 

(This device is exclusively used in Clarins Spas and is not currently available for sale)

After all the summer parties, vacations and amazing long-weekends, a good eye product is essential. The Multi Active Eye Cream ($45.00) smooths fine lines, diminishes dark circles and protects skin from indoor and outdoor pollution with a soothing blend of natural extracts. It also helps revive strained, tired eyes after hours glued to the computer or smartphone so you look refreshed and alert. The unique texture of the cream reduces puffiness and optically blurs fine lines for a toned, youthful appearance. I love the metal applicator because it feels cool and rejuvenating after a hectic day and it helps massage the product in more effectively to stimulate circulation, brighten and enhance absorption.

Clarins is available at department stores nationwide, Sephora and online at clarins.ca