clarins on the make-up blogette

FAQ & DISCLAIMER

About Me

My name is Sophia, and I am in my early 30s. I am from Singapore and I am the sole writer of this blog.

About this Blog

I started this blog in 2006, I like to use a wide range of brands though I seem to have a growing preference for higher-end brands in recent years. I also like to share interesting things I have come across about makeup and beauty.

Currently The Makeup Blogette receives 39,000 unique views monthly or 2,238,932 views and counting.

My Makeup Style

I like classic looks (neutral tones on eyes, anything goes for lips & cheeks), though occasionally I try out dramatic/ statement looks. I believe that a flawless base is the key to achieving great makeup looks. I also believe that if you don't have great skin to start with, fake it with a good foundation routine, and even greater skincare. I am currently loving Clarins & Lancome skincare products, and Vichy NormaDerm for tackling with breakouts.

What Cameras do I use?

Most of the pictures you see in post 2010 entries are taken with my Canon G-11. Previously I was using Canon Ixus 80. I do post some pictures which are taken with my iphone4 which I will state in that particular entry. I have stopped watermarking my pictures as of 2011, because I think watermarks are ugly in general, and does not prevent people from stealing my pictures if they wish to. I just take it as a compliment that my pictures are even worth stealing in the first place. I might look into getting a Canon EOS next year, not just for blogging purposes, but I also like photography in general.

My Favourite Makeup Brand(s)

It is hard to name just one, but I like NARS, Chanel, Illamasqua and the ocasional Guerlain, Dior & Urban Decay item. I own quite a stash of MAC items, but recently I have stopped catching up with their collections, and I much prefer to splurge on a few really outstanding items.

Where to find me

Twitter (link button above!) Email (stated above!) Instagram (makeup_blogette)

I have no official Facebook fan page, and currently have no intention to start one at all. The Makeup Blogette remains my personal hobby and property, so as such, I don't believe in having a Facebook fanpage for it.

Final Disclaimer

I bought/ paid for all of the products mentioned in this blog. I am not affliated to any company. If certain products are sent to me for review purposes, I will say so and express my honest opinions about them. In any case, I will only review and showcase the products which I have personally tried and tested, and enjoy using. I do not get paid to review anything.

No ads, no paid links etc please. I am in charge of all content and pictures here.

I am not a makeup artist, nor do I have any professional training in makeup.

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Product Empties Part One: Cleansers & Skincare [May 2013]

Hi hi!

Time for another empties entry... I swear I have been putting this entry off for the longest time, it is at least 1 month overdue. And along the way, my bag of empties got heavier and heavier. Most of this products were used up in the months of Jan to Mar 2013..with a few products I used up as recently as last week and yesterday. I will be doing a part two which consists of mainly shower/hair products in an upcoming entry (maybe next week).

So lots of cleansers, I wash my face twice a day, and it is no wonder that makeup removers and cleansers are always frequently used up. Also sometimes my sister share these products with me, so we use them up more quickly than others.

Here we have three makeup removers:

1. LANCOME Remove all deep cleansing oil for face and eyes
A rich cleansing oil, I bought this for only S$20 when I was at the JPO. It removes all makeup effectively, especially foundations and eye makeup. I like that it comes in a pump, and really melts away makeup. I would repurchase this, but not in a long long time, I certainly didn't see it anymore at the JPO, and I have several other cleansing oils I can use in the meantime.

2. Ettusais Gentle Makeup Off
This reminds me of the Biore Jelly makeup remover, it is sort of gel texture, and not entirely oily. It is very effective and gentle for light makeup days, but if I have full eye makeup, this is not enough. If you have sensitve skin, this would be fantastic - very gentle and soothing to use.

3. Bioderma
This needs no introduction. I have lost count of how many bottles I have gone through. I constantly have backups, and I always have a bottle of this on my table. When I need to remove my makeup in a hurry in my own room, I would use Bioderma...and when I am on a major makeup swatch fest, I also use Bioderma to wipe my lips, hands, etc etc in between swatching and photo-taking. This is definitely an essential.

Next are three cleansers:

1. Lancome Blanc Expert Ultimate Whitening Purifying Foam
I really enjoy this cleanser, from the rich creamy foam, to the scent. It leaves my skin feeling super clean without being stripped.

2. Perfect Whip Foamy Cleanser
I have gone through several tubes of this. Really afforable, and really dense cleansing foam and always leaves my skin really clean afterwards. Definitely a staple in my cleanser stash. Many thanks to Amy for recommending this a year ago!

3. Clarins White Plus Gentle Brightening Exfoliator
I think this is my 3rd or 4th tube. I love the scent, and the natural exfoliator beads. Leaves my face visibly brighter and more radiant, and I always follow up with a brightening mask after this exfoliator. Will definitely repurchase.

Skincare products:
No surprises here that I am using up a lot of Lancome products, since I have been using them since Feb.

1. Lancome Blanc Expert Ultimate Whitening Refining Beauty Lotion
This is the very first time I finished a toner/ lotion type of product. (well, okay come to think of it, I have used up several Clarins ones in the past). I have never been a toner girl... but I started decanting this product into a spray bottle, and it makes this toning step of my skincare routine so much more effective and enjoyable. No more fussing with the watery toner in the palms of my hand, no more fussing with cotton pads. I just spray the toner onto my face, pat dry and go on to the next step. I love the feeling of this toner. It is not 'drying' nor alcohol-y, it feels moisturising and relaxing.

2. Lancome Genefique

3. Lancome Visionaire

I don't need to say more, this is my power super serum combination... I am currently using the brand new Genefique Advanced (which I am loving, cos it is richer and even more POTENT). I have used both serums at least 3 - 4 times... and always very very satisfied.

Click here to read all about my Lancome skincare routine - it is pretty comprehensive, and my skin has never been better.

4. Lancome Absolue Extrait cream
This is a deluxe sample tub, and it is just an amazing luxe face cream. Very very pricey, and I enjoy it. I use it very sparingly, and it leaves my face totally regenerated and radiant the next day. Definitely a skincare treat for your face.

Next are a bunch of randoms, LOTS OF EYE PRODUCTS. I am a eyecream, eye serum junkie.

1. Clarins UV Plus Multi-Protection SPF40
This lasts me forever and ever. It evens out the skintone, not oily, and provides great sun protection. It is a decent and effective sun protection product, and I highly recommend this.

2. Clarins Defining Eye Lift (old formula)
This is a eye serum, I don't feel any visible eye lifting effect, but it feels lightweight, and I don't mind this extra step before I use my cream. Better be safe than sorry. I am paranoid that way when it comes to skincare for my eyes. I don't really have serious eye issues, but I just want to be really careful anyway.

3. Kiehls Cream Eye Treatment
A super creamy rich eyecream, I LOVE IT because it is so thicky and cream, and it doesn't transfer into my eyes and irritate them. I would defnitely re-purchase this. Can't remember how much, I think it's around $50 (got it in HK) and it is super moisturising.

4. SK-II signature eyecream
This tub lasted me around 4 months. And I LOVE IT. It is very creamy, moisturising and definitely brightening. I would definitely want this as well.

5. Embryolisse Eye Cream
This is a very basic eye cream, and if you don't have much eye issues, I do recommend this.

6. Kiehls Midnight Discovery eyecream (not pictured)
Finished my second tube! I used it, but most of the time it's my sister who is faithfully use this every day and night. She really noticed brightening around her eyes, and all my friends whom I recommend it to, all love it. It is very lightweight, and very effective.

If you are wondering why I use up so many eye creams, it is because I am using 2 - 3 eye creams at any one point. I sometimes layer a serum and cream, and sometimes just a cream. I rotate my eye creams randomly too. So after 3 - 4 months, suddenly I run out of a few of them at one go.

And lastly, this Clarisonic brush head. It is the delicate skin brush head, as with the one I am currently using. I have been given the deep pore cleansing one lately, and I can't wait to try that out. I found the delicate skin brush head nice and gentle, maybe a bit too gentle. I think I will want to buy the normal ones next time. I don't really switch it out after a certain amount of time, I just sort of go by my gut feeling, like if I need to replace, I just do it.

Phew!

I hope you find this entry helpful, many of these products are not new, and I have mentioned many of them before. Feel free to leave comments below about anything I have mentioned!

What have you used up recently?

Thanks for reading!

Posted on May 06, 2013 at 6:26AM | Permalink | 8 Comments

Filed in: Lancome, Clarins, Ettusais, bioderma, random chat, product empties | Tagged with: Lancome, clarins, Ettusais, bioderma, random chat, product empties

December 16, 2012

Travel Skincare Faves (Dec 2012)

Hi hi!

Just checking in to rave about some of my recent skincare faves. I usually pack a bunch of samples and mini tubs in my travel bag, so I can use up the stuff in my samples drawer - and also keeping a few trusted staples of products which I know work for me. I also like to pack a couple of extra nourishing creams in my bag, in case of dry skin conditions etc when I am away, especially with the cooler weather here in HK.

Let's start with some kind of order in which the products I use ---

but do note that even as I pack multiple of each category of product I only use one each morning/ night, never BOTH at the same time.

I always try to start my skincare routine with eye care - and here we have

Clarins Defining Eye Lift - great light cream for daytime and de-puffs my morning eyes

Kenzoki Relaxing Eye Whipped Cream - night eye cream, richer moussey texture very moisturising

Then I have these serums and night cream - they smell lovely and so relaxing to use after a long day of walking about.

I am currently using the Kenzoki Relaxant day and night creams at home--- so I brought along my deluxe sample tubs along to continue with these staples. They keep my face soft and well moisturised the next morning.

Each of these tubs are 15ml. The Creamy White Day Cream has a gel-like springy texture which sort of bursts and glides onto your skin, and quickly absorbed. It feels rich but not heavy.
The Cosmic Cosmetic Cream is a gentle night repair cream, very smooth smells just like the rest of the Kenzoki products - very floral very unique scent - is one of my most fave face creams.

And for extra treat, I would use the following:

So far I have only used the Lancome Absolue L'Extrait cream once during this trip. It is a 15ml tub which is a very generous size, that I use at home, I brought it to Beijing, and there's still a good half left. It smells so awesome, and feels super nourishing on your skin.

All these might sound like a ton of products - but I really believe in cleansing and a good skincare routine - it's a good way to relax and end the day, and also to prep your skin - when the skin is firm and smooth, makeup goes on easily too.

Have a few entries coming up soon, stay tuned!

Posted on December 16, 2012 at 9:54PM | Permalink | 1 Comment

Filed in: Travel, makeup, skincare, Lancome, Clarins, kenzoki | Tagged with: Travel, Lancome, makeup, skincare, clarins, kenzoki

November 01, 2012

Clarins Skin Illusion Loose Powder Foundation

Skin Illusion is now available as a loose powder foundation, offering the coverage of a foundation and the lightness of a loose powder, with pure, mineral radiance and the skin care benefits of plants. Your skin, only better.

Luminosity & a bare skin effect
• An incredibly beautiful, smooth complexion with a transparent finish > Pink opal mineral powder

• Energizing and hydrating benefits > Pink algae plant extract Radiance, comfort, protection

• Radiant skin in any circumstance > Light-Optimizing+ complex

• Comfortable skin > Clarins exclusive Plant Micropatch®

• Skin is protected all day long > Extracts of white tea and succory dock-cress

And more!

Luxurious and ingenious > A wonderfully soft brush built into the lid
11 pure shades in perfect affinity with the skin that deliver exceptional hold > Pigments coated with an amino acid of plant origin

Clarins Skill Illusion Loose Powder Foundation is available in

four shades 103, 105, 108 and 110.

Price S$62

Available at all Clarins counters.

p/s it smells amazing and is extremely smooth. It it also one of the most innovative and neat packaging I have come across for a loose powder.

Can't wait to review it!

Posted on November 01, 2012 at 3:15AM | Permalink | 0 Comments

Filed in: Clarins, clarins skin illusion loose powder foundation | Tagged with: clarins, clarins skin illusion loose powder foundation

July 19, 2012

NEW Clarins Shaping Lift Range [Photos & Information]

Available August 2012

Refine facial contours and reveal all of the expressive beauty of Asian women...

Following Shaping Facial Lift, the first and only serum to promote balanced facial volumes for a perfect V-shaped contour from every angle, Clarins launches two new pioneer products, specially dedicated to Asian women:

Defining Eye Lift

The first product to help relieve heavy-looking eyelids, drain and brighten the eye contour.

Shaping Facial Lift Wrap

Based on Clarins Beauty Institute expertise, this is a quick way to help reduce a puffy appearance linked to water retention.

Defining Eye Lift Relieves eyelid puffiness

1. An immediate ‘lift’ effect
followed by a triple lightening, draining and brightening action.

2. An oil-free formula
that is colorant-free and ophthalmologist tested.

3. A patented application method
inspired by Shaping Facial Lift’s Manual Auto-Lifting® Method.

See brighter, more open eyes in just 4 weeks!*

*Test carried out on 34 Asian women.

Finally, an answer to a need that has yet to be met! For the first time, Defining Eye Lift takes into account three causes that affect
the natural, expressive beauty of Asian eyes: the effacement of the upper eyelid, slower drainage linked to lifestyle, and an uneven skin tone.

The expert product that reveals all of the beauty of Asian eyes.

To minimize the natural heaviness of the eyelids,
an immediate ‘lift’ effect followed by a targeted lightening action

. Oat sugars form an invisible, skin-tightening ‘veil’ on the skin’s surface that gently pulls the eyelid up.

. A combination of caffeine and dextran sulfate enhances the removal of excess lipids and slows down their accumulation again while minimizing the risk of irritation on the eyelids.

A reinforced draining action helps avoid occasional puffiness

. Dextran sulfate reduces the appearance of ‘puffy’ eyes by stimulating
the removal of water which has accumulated in tissues due to a horizontal sleeping position, heat or even stress.

. Extracts of organic ginkgo biloba and maritime pine help prevent the accumulation of water in skin tissues by boosting microcirculation.

A brightening action promotes a clearer, more even eye contour

. Alchemilla extract limits the transfer of melanin pigments to cells in the epidermis in order to reduce the natural darkening of the eye contour.

. Extracts of organic ginkgo biloba and maritime pine have an action on microcirculation to help reduce the appearance of dark circles linked to fatigue.

Clinically-proven results: Eyes appear more open after four weeks.

Shaping Facial Lift Wrap Retracting effect

1. In 10 minutes, a visible retracting effect
coupled with hydrating, brightening and matifying actions.

2. A rich, creamy, mousse-like texture makes application a real treat.

3. A draining technique
pampers the skin for optimized results.

Instantly see less puffy features!*

*Test carried out on 35 Asian women.

Even thin faces can experience a ‘heavy’ look and features that are not well defined. Why does this happen? Excess water in the skin tissue is the reason. Better than a simple mask, Shaping Facial Lift Wrap was inspired by Clarins Institute treatments. In 10 minutes, it helps reposition facial features and restores a more refined appearance.

A double ‘water-reducing’ action helps reduce and prevent puffiness

. Chinese barley has draining properties and helps remove excess water that has accumulated in tissues.

. Ginkgo biloba extract helps prevent new puffiness from setting in: by protecting blood capillaries, it limits their permeability, at the origin of water leaks toward skin tissues.

Hydrating, brightening and matifying actions help wake up skin’s radiance and ensure its comfort

. Christophine extract, a fruit originally from South America, hydrates and softens the skin’s surface.

. Parsley extract helps regulate melanogenesis thereby brightening the complexion. . White clay absorbs impurities and excess oil. It also has an astringent effect

and finally, the Shaping Facial Lift Lipo-drain serum - the star product, which I have introduced here:

A daily serum which reduces excess lipids in the cheeks, chin and facial oval to refine the face from the front as well as the profile.

It also helps enhance younger-looking, more beautiful features.

Price Information

Shaping Facial Lift $102

Defining Eye Lift $82

Shaping Facial Lift Wrap $75

I will try to follow up with a review/ swatches feature entry.

Hope this is informative. Thank you for reading.

Images and information extracted from Clarins press file.

Posted on July 19, 2012 at 4:11AM | Permalink | 1 Comment

Filed in: skincare, Clarins, shaping, Lift | Tagged with: skincare, clarins, shaping, lift

June 13, 2012

Clarins White Plus HP Sea Lily Enriched SPF 30/PA+++ Whitening Powder Foundation

Clarins present White Plus HP Whitening Powder Foundation, the avant-garde whitening foundation. Clarins unrivalled White Plus HP expertise in a compact foundation created with Asian women and designed for them.

Its new generation texture enriched with sea lily, the innovative plant extract in the White Plus range, illuminates the complexion with a new radiance and helps the skin effectively fight the appearance of dark spots. It delivers double benefits: an unrivalled whitening action and an even, brighter complexion. The sleek, luminous design of its pearly white and silver case evokes the flawlessness of the complexion. Its pure very feminine style follows the graphic codes of the White Plus HP range. Sea Lily: Nature's way to a fair, flawless complexion.

The Pure Brightness of Flawless Skin without dark spots

The 'Pure Lightening' mineral complex: for a complexion bathed in light

On application, the pigments in the formula selected for their brighening and unifying actions illuminate the comlexion with a totally transparent look. Skin texture is perfectly even and dark spots and pores are visibly minimized.

The Advanced "Lock-Afround System" plant complex: the best of science and plants

White Plus HP Whitening Powder Foundation benefits from the same technology used in the White Plus HP range. In its formula, the combination of sea lily, alchemilla and raspberry controls the melanin production and slows the appearance of dark spots. The skin naturally becomes brighter and dark spots are reduced.

Reinforced prevention of dark spots and imperfections thanks to triple protection

UVA/UVB Protection

SPF30/ PA+++ mineral sun protection shields the skin from UVA and UVB rays, the primary factors behind melanogenesis.

Pollution and antioxidant protection

Clarins Laboratories have created an exclusive complex composed of white tea extract rich in flavonoids and sccory dock-cress extract which reinforces the skin care action while neutralising free radicals.

A matte, radiant complexion from morning to night

New Generation Powders

The micronized powders present in the formula give the texture an incredibly fine quality and a matifying effect. They ensure a totally natural, 'second skin' makeup result which sets perfectly to deliver long-lasting hold in any circumstance!

Precious mineral pigments

Pigments coated in amino acids absorb excess sebum while preserving the radiance and stability of the colour.

The Clarins Exclusive Plant Micropatch

The skin is hydrated where it needs to be. By forming a network on the skin surface, the Plant Micropatch limits water evaporation and preserves the skin's moisture capital. It progressively and continously restores the water needed by the epidermis. The skin remains supple and comfortable.

Aloe extract hydrates and softens the skin all day long.

I try to follow up with a review entry of this foundation soon.

Now available at all clarins counters. Available in 5 shades.

Case: S$18, Refill: S$52

Hope this sharing has been helpful. Thank you for reading.

information & images extracted from press file.

Posted on June 13, 2012 at 9:52PM | Permalink | 0 Comments

Filed in: Clarins, whitening powder foundation | Tagged with: clarins, whitening powder foundation

June 02, 2012

NEW Clarins Total Cleansing Oil

Available in June 2012, $50 each.

“Cleansing is the most frequent, most repeated skin care step which influences the effectiveness of products applied afterwards.”

Jacques Courtin-Clarins, Clarins founder.

Make-up has changed and so has make-up removal

Long-hold foundations, new make-up rich in coloured pigments and fine pearl, mineral sunscreens: today’s beauty products are increasingly long-wearing. Cleansing, the essential beauty step according to Clarins, must keep up with these cosmetic advances.

Today, Clarins launches Total Cleansing Oil, an innovation resulting from three areas of expertise:

Cleansing expertise

Clarins has always adapted its cleansers to all skin types and all needs, thanks to a very wide product range.

Skin care using oils since 1965

Clarins was a forerunner by creating its 100% Plant Oils

The best plant extracts

Rigorously selected and analyzed to obtain their most precious elements.

An exceptional formula designed for Asian women

Total cleansing

Clarins has taken into account the changes in make-up and UV protection products and created a high-performance, high-tolerance cleanser which eliminates even the most resistant make-up.

The combination of two organic plant oils:

perilla oil and olive oil

One is from Asia, the other from Mediterranean Europe. Both are widely recognized since Antiquity for their cosmetic properties, antioxidant virtues and high content of essential fatty acids. By combining these two 100% organic oils, Clarins Research offers Asian women the most effective cleanser, in perfect affinity with the skin. The skin is perfectly cleansed and clean, without being aggressed.

A very high-performance cleanser

The comfort of an oil

Very fine, with a wonderful feel, Total Cleansing Oil glides into every corner of the skin’s micro-relief. Its high-tech oil texture is specially designed to quickly dissolve all oily residues and impurities. It effectively traps even the most adherent particles which resist classic cleansers.

The fresh feel of water

Then on contact with water, the oil transforms into a fresh, milky emulsion which carries away all traces of make-up, even waterproof formulas, and pollution and anti-UV sunscreens. Very easy to rinse off, it leaves no oily traces on the skin.

Unrivalled beauty result

Thanks to Total Cleansing Oil, skin is quickly and easily fresh and perfectly clean again, while remaining supple. It is now ready to fully benefit from skin care products applied afterwards.

Extremely gentle

The skin’s hydrolipidic film is protected

Traditionally, olive oil was used in the Mediterranean on the fine, fragile skin of newborns. In the formula of Total Cleansing Oil, the combination of olive oil and perilla oil rich in essential fatty acids preserves the skin’s hydrolipidic film. There is no feeling of tightness but instant softness and comfort.

The Clarins Cleansing Method

Faithful to its philosophy, Clarins recommends a Cleansing Method which is easy to carry out and combines effectiveness and sensoriality on application.

I hope you find this sharing helpful. I will try to follow up with a review entry soon enough.

Information extracted from press file. Clarins Total Cleasnsing Oil was given to me for consideration.

Posted on June 02, 2012 at 10:32AM | Permalink | 0 Comments

Filed in: Clarins, total cleansing oil | Tagged with: clarins, total cleansing oil

May 21, 2012

Celebrate & Win the Renanthera Clarins Christian & Olivier Orchid Brooch!‏

In this entry, I am sharing with you the information and pictures about the first Clarins orchid, and also how you can stand to win the Renanthera Clarins Christian & Olivier Orchid Brooch at Clarins Facebook page.

Details included in the images below.

There's a new branch on the family tree.

December 9, 2010 – Clarins, the European leader in premium skincare, proudly announces the birth of the first Clarins orchid, the Renanthera Clarins Christian & Olivier. The new family member, a fiery crimson orchid, made its official debut at the Clarins’ Orchid Presentation, in Singapore Botanic Gardens' Burkill Hall.

The Clarins Orchid is a new hybrid that has been crossed from an award-winning Renanthera hybrid bred in the US and another outstanding Renanthera hybrid from Malaysia. This spectacular cross bloom was specially bred by Singapore Botanic Gardens as a tribute to Clarins, for its continual efforts to support and raise awareness of sustainable development and biodiversity.

These efforts have resulted in projects with the Singapore Botanic Gardens’ like the bi-ennial Singapore Garden Festival (SGF) since its inauguration in 2006. At the SGF 2008, Clarins created two gardens: A Garden of Love, where visitors could learn about plants like ginger and mint, which are found in the brand's beauty products; and a Learning Garden to teach children through play about environmental conservation.

In conjunction with this year's SGF, Clarins and its esteemed retail partner Tangs, helped re-introduce a native orchid species - Grammatophyllum speciosum (aka the Tiger Orchid) – into the cityscape. Tangs Chief Executive Officer, Mr TS Foo, Dr Wong Wei Har, Director of SGF and Singapore Botanic Gardens and Chairman of the Clarins Groupe, Mr Christian Courtin-Clarins, jointly planted the Tiger Orchid onto a mature tree in front of the Orchard Road department store. Clarins also sponsored in-store window displays at Tangs, which promoted the Orchid Conservation Story – one of the central themes at this year’s SGF.

The orchid honour to Clarins is especially significant too because it is the first time that a premium skincare brand has been gifted with its own orchid by the Singapore Botanic Gardens.

Chairman of the Clarins Groupe, Mr Christian Courtin-Clarins, who flew in for the ceremony, says: “It is with great pride and a deep honour for Clarins to be gifted with an orchid that was specially created for us. For it to come from a professional body like Singapore Botanic Gardens, that works to promote greenery and plant species --- the brand and myself, find this tribute more meaningful. It is not simply a flower but it validates the efforts that Clarins has dedicated to sustainable development, all these years.”

Sowing The Seeds of Love

Orchidaceae (aka the Orchid family) is one of the largest group of flowering plants. It is estimated that there are about 35,000 orchid species on the planet, and that's not counting the undiscovered ones yet. The elegant botanical is also one of the oldest flowering plants around: its existence dates as far back as 120 million years ago, when dinosaurs still roamed the earth.

Though the elegant flower may look fragile, its resilience is remarkable. It's defied evolution time and time again, flourished and thrived in nearly every continent, adapting to live in various environments, from mountains to bogs, in grasslands and rain forests.

The exotic bloom, for centuries, has been a symbol of love, luxury and beauty. The early Greeks saw it to represent virility; while in the Middle Ages, the plant was considered an aphrodisiac and used in love potions.

It is all very befitting then, that a new orchid hybrid has been specially bred by Singapore Botanic Gardens and gifted to Clarins, in recognition of the latter's aim to bring Man and Nature closer. No mere flower, the Clarins Orchid is symbolic of the brand's love and respect of the world.

The beautiful orchid plant -Renanthera Clarins Christian & Olivier – is a hybrid cross of the mother plant, Renanthera Kalsom (a prolific breeder with more than 40 progenies to its name) and the Renanthera Mauricete Brin 'La Belle Dame' FCC/AOS. The latter, a cross bloom too, was created by American Martin Motes, a famous breeder of the Vanda orchid species. The fathering plant of the Clarins Orchid is an impressive title holder. It was awarded a First Class Certificate (FCC) by the American Orchid Society. The FCC is highest accolade for flower quality, and is awarded to orchid species or hybrids that score at least 90 points, on the 100-point scale.

Pollinated back in 2004, and the first bloom of the Clarins Orchid only appeared earlier this year on 8 June. This magnificent plant has the following distinctions:

* Branching sprays that can reach more than 60cm (or the length of 2 long rulers), with each spray bearing a total of more than 100 well-displayed flowers.

* The natural spread of the velvety flower is 7 cm long by 4.5 cm wide.

* Its petals and sepals are crimson, and overlaid with ox blood-red spots. The centre of the lip is lemon-yellow.

For more pictures of the Renanthera Clarins Christian & Olivier Orchid launch event at the Singapore Botantical Gardens, click on the following link:

http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.141767282552987.31528.106614952734887&type=1

For more information of the actual giveaway/ contest, click here:

http://www.facebook.com/notes/clarins-singapore/celebrate-our-orchid-blo...

The contest runs from 22 May 2012 to 21 June 2012. All terms & conditions can be found on the Clarins FB page.

Hope everyone will go take part, and good luck!

images & information extracted from the press file.

Posted on May 21, 2012 at 6:43AM | Permalink | 0 Comments

Filed in: Clarins, contest, orchid | Tagged with: contest, orchid, clarins

March 21, 2012

Skincare Chat [March 2012]

Hi!

Just thought that it might be timely to do a little skincare chat/ ramble.

Not really offically reviewing any specfic products nor 'endorsing' any brands here, but if you have any questions about any products which I mentioned here, do leave your comments below, and I shall try my best to address them.

Of late, my skin condition hasn't been in the most ideal condition. I attribute it to a bad combination of stress and bad hormones...and I have been getting angry breakouts on parts of my face (especially my forehead). While I am able to fake the flawless look most of the days using a combination of makeup and concealers, the zits can be painful, and sometimes, frankly, really tedious to cover, and my skin seems to become dryer, especially around the cheeks.

But lately the skin condition seems to have improved, and the Jet Plasma treatment which I did last week really seemed to put a stop to all these nasty situation. I am not too sure if this will be a permanent improvement, but I am extremely happy that all the little bumps and maybe potential breakouts have all but been eliminated. I am pretty much set to go back to Jet Concepts to sign on for a 3 session package (which I prolly intend to do once a month) for maintainence's sake.

Due to my improved skin condition, I have also started doing a light coverage foundation combination this week. Instead of my fave BB cream + light foundation combo, I have gone back to just a regular primer with a foundation. And my skin has managed to look clear and fresh for most part of the day (that's a good 8 - 10 hours). For whatever I am using for the day, I do post on my instagram, and you can ask me questions there too, on what I think about the products I used.

I was also in between skincare products/ routines at a time when my skin was 'suffering' which didn't help the situation. When I have the zits, I slapped on the Paula's Choice - but that can be drying. And I ran out of my night cream - and I am still in the market for one. My fave combo of Lancome Genefique and Visionaire has run out, and I am waiting for the next Metro or whatever sale to stock up on VIsionaire - I remember also when I was using that combination of serums - my skin was in pretty top condition.

My main concern has always been wanting to fade pigmentation spots due to my breakouts, and also minimise the appearance of pores around my nose. And somehow I always end up with a lot of skin whitening/ brightening products in my stash - which is good, because I get to try out which works for me.

So, what's in my current routine, and what products am I rotating:

Makeup Removal [products not pictured]

Bioderma

Clarins Water Comfort One Step Cleanser

Soap & Glory makeup remover wipes

* I use the above three products when I am lazy and I remove my makeup in my room before I take my shower.

* I like them for removing eye makeup too.

Hada Labo Super Hyaluronic Acid Makeup Remover

* This is a great everyday makeup remover, though it doesn't remove eye makeup very well. But I like that it is not the typical oily remover, and it feels good on the skin - kinda like very moisturising.

I always have a stash of Shu Uemura cleansing oils and Fancl mild cleansing oils because I do get sent these by the companies from time to time.. but I don't use them until I have an 'opening' in my current rotation because I don't want to open too many products at one time. But when I run out of the Hada Labo remover, the next to be used would be the Fancl one, which is one of my all time faves.

Facial Cleansing Products

Once a week, I would use my Clarisonic and with any one of these cleansers to deep cleanse my face. I usually like foamy facial cleansers. I normally rotate 2 or 3 cleansers - no particular reason. Currently these are in my bathroom.

Philosophy Purity on step makeup remover and cleanser ---- I don't really use this to remove my makeup. As a cleanser, it is not very foamy, but it does leave my face feeling clean and I like the soothing scent. Philosophy products will be available at Sephora stores from April. I got this as part of the press pack when I attended the press event.

KOSE White Powder Wash This is LOVES. It gives a thick rich creamy foam once you mix the powder with water in your palm. Leaves my face feeling super clean, and fresh. I do think this is quite a 'famous' Kose product... and I do think this is better than the FANCL washing powder, simply because it gives a much richer and creamier foam.

VICHY Foam Facial Cleanser I always stock up on this big time when I go to JB (these cost me only RM10 each) and it is just a nice regular facial cleanser. I have several other Vichy cleansers in my stash from their NormaDerm line... but I have yet to get to them, because I always end up using these.

Current Day Routine

This is the latest StriVectin skincare range (think it was launched island wide early March). I attended the media presentation for this range, and received these products to try out, but I haven't been able to use them until this week. I figure that I will use these two products as my morning/ day routine, due to the SPF factore in the day lotion. I might post a more indepth product about this range entry soon.

Photo-White Booster Serum This is supposed to accelerate skin turnover, and skin will appear within 2 weeks of use. After 8 weeks, pigmentation will be normalised, and spots visibly fade, and skin appears luminous.

Photo-White Day Lotion SPF30 Protects skin from UV rays, and by week 4 excess pigmentation decreases, skin defenses strengthen, sun spots diminish, by week 8 pigmentation normalises, visibly brighter, more radiant skin emerges

I can't comment on the effective yet, since I have only started using these two products for a few days. I quite like the texture of each, and they also have a refreshing slightly citrus scent. Will update on the results, if I note any, after a month or so.

Night Routine

This is a mix-mash of products which I found in my drawer of new products. I like to layer products at night, because this is when I am resting, and the products get to work on renewing my skin and all that.

I 'stole' the cle de peau emulsion from my mom's bathroom! Haha. I was looking for some kind of pre-moisturiser type product, and came across this, and it has been in my room ever since. I use this immediately after cleansing, before serums. (bought this during last year's Shiseiso sale)

Then I use the Shiseido White Lucent Intensive Spot Targetting Serum which is a very lightweight serum. I apply this mainly on my problem areas. (this is provided to me by the company)

After this, I follow up with the Shiseido White Lucent Concenrated Brightening Serum which is another whitening serum but it has a much thicker creamier texture. I apply and rub this into my problem areas too. I also feel like this adds some hydration to my skin.

My current night cream -- which isnt even a night cream is the Clarins Whitening Velvet Emulsion This is a DAY moisturiser. I was using this in the daytime... until I switched to the StriVectin combination.

I think I will end up buying a Clarins or Shiseido night cream later this week.

Eye Creams!

I love eye creams, eye serums everything to do with the eyes. And I will faithfully use it twice a day.

Right now, I still have the Lancome multiple action cream - the eye cream part is almost out while the concealer part is still quite plentiful. Not too sure if I will purchase it again in the short run.. but I really like the rich formula of this eyecream.

I also switch it up with the Shiseido The Skincare eye cream. This is just a basic moisturising eye cream. I like the gel like yet creamy texture. I bought this for $71. It is a great basic everyday eye cream.

The next eye cream I want to try is the StriVectin one (which targets fine lines, puffiness, and also darkness). It retails $100 for 30ml..and usually eye products come in 15ml versions. Anyway, I have been using sample of this eye cream, and I do quite like the texture. So I will most likely buy it soon.

Skin TREATMENTS

Once or twice a week, I will use either the Dior or Chanel mask. Honestly, I am not the greatest fan of sheet facial masks. I am a bit lazy to put them on my face, wait 20 mins and take the facial mask off. I have a stash of them (some sent to me) and I never got to review them properly, because.... opps honestly, I find it hard to work into my routine naturally, and I can't comment much on the effectiveness - because, what can one say about a mask? "it fits my face well, it is nice and wet, makes my face moisturised"....which pretty much describes all sheet masks to me.

DIOR ONE Essential Ultra Detox masque - I love this masque, it is totally different from the Chanel one... the product itself is rich, and looks like some kind of a gel, it is quickly absorbed into the skin, leaving no sticky residue. The next day, your skin feels refreshed, smooth, and clear. More information on this product here.

CHANEL Essential Regenerating Mask - Pricey but totally worth it! This is an ultra-luxe skincare treatment. Whenever I feel like my skin is tired, and all stressed out, I will use this mask. It is very creamy, quite heavy, but all that goodness is absorbed into your skin by the time you wake up in the morning, and you end up with a very nice glowing face. (It smells awesome too!)

So, to sum up.... things I need to get:

1. night cream

2. new eye cream

3. sign up for Jet Plasma treatments

I think that's about it... hope that my rambling has been helpful, and thanks for reading!

Posted on March 21, 2012 at 9:21AM | Permalink | 4 Comments

Filed in: chanel, skincare, Lancome, Clarins, Dior, Strivectin, Shiseido, white lucent | Tagged with: chanel, Lancome, skincare, dior, clarins, Shiseido, Strivectin, white lucent

March 05, 2012

NEW Clarins UV Plus HP Day Care SPF40 Beige [Information, Photos & Swatches]

Available March 2012

UV Plus HP Beige S$74

Clarins, expert in UV protection, launches a new beige-tinted UV PLUS HP SPF 40 day care.

UV PLUS HP has won several magazine beauty awards around the world: Santé Magazine (2006), Instyle (2006), Marie-Claire (2007) and Her World (2008).

Today, Clarins introduces a new beige-tinted version that offers coverage and evens the complexion for women who’d like to minimize the appearance of dark spots, redness and imperfections.

Just like the neutral and pink-tinted versions, this new skin care delivers a triple protection “shield”.

Protection against UV rays and pollution

Specifically formulated for women who want protection against sun’s rays in the city, UV PLUS HP SPF 40 protects against photo-ageing and dark spots. A 100% mineral screen ensures optimal tolerance while its lightweight texture leaves no white residue on skin. Thanks to the presence of an anti-pollution complex formulated with 5 ingredients and plant extracts, skin is also protected against the harmful environmental effects of city life.

Innovation: free radicals are neutralized at the source

UV PLUS HP also protects against photo-ageing linked to oxidative stress. Its secret?

A high-performance, “Made-in-France” fruit extract that is rich in superoxide dismutase (SOD): canteloupe melon from Provence, obtained from organic farming.

SOD from cantaloupe is one of the most powerful known antioxidants: it destroys “primary” free radicals before they oxidize lipids, proteins and cellular DNA. Thanks to this extract, UV PLUS HP SPF 40 ensures reinforced protection against oxidative stress within the skin and externally.

Three true colours now available

UV PLUS HP SPF 40. Triple protection for the face: anti-UV, antioxidant and anti-pollution, formulated for city dwellers to maintain beautiful-looking skin. Its unbelievably light texture is now available in three shades.

Neutral

Invisible on the skin, this transparent shade smoothes easily onto the skin and will not leave behind any traces of white or oily residue.

Natural Looking - invisible protection, and great under makeup.

Pink

For a clear, more luminous complexion, illuminates the skin in a subtle shade of pink. Promotes a natu- ral-looking, fresh appearance and brightens a dull complexion.

illuminates dull skin on days without makeup.

Beige

For a perfectly flawless complexion! The beige tone delivers light coverage and is ideal for immediately minimizing any redness, dark spots and tiny imperfections. Promotes a more even skin tone that looks impeccable and luminous.

Flawless even toned skin, light coverage, great for no makeup days.

No matter which shade you choose, UV PLUS HP SPF 40 ensures perfectly matte skin all day long. Apply over your regular daytime moisturizer. Shake well before use. Can be used with all skin care and make-up.

I have previously featured the original UV Plus HP Day Care SPF40 in the neutral and tinted versions,

link here!

The Clarins UV HP Day Care SPF40 has always been one of my top fave sunscreen products, it is so lightweight, and I really love the texture.

The new beige version has the added bonus (to me, at least) of having slightly more coverage, kind of like a tinted moisturiser that evens out your skintone.

If you are wondering, what's the different among the three shades, and why would you need one or all of these?

If you are going to wear makeup for the day (say, to work) then maybe you want to use the neutral one (which is totally transparent) under your makeup routine. However, say during days off when you don't feel like having makeup, and yet want to look fresh and have your skintone even-ed out, the tinted and beige versions would definitely come in handy.

swatches of all three

You can see here, none of the shades left any white cast on my hand

another close up of the swatches

These are a little pricey, but a little goes a long way, and each bottle does last me a long time with regular usage.

My sisters all love it too, for the texture and the protection it gives.

Hope this has been helpful, and thank you for looking!

Posted on March 05, 2012 at 6:23AM | Permalink | 0 Comments

Filed in: skincare, Clarins, sun protection, beige, UV Plus HP Day Screen, sun screen | Tagged with: skincare, beige, sun protection, clarins, sun screen, UV Plus HP Day Screen

January 22, 2012

NEW Clarins Gloss Prodige [Photos & Swatches]

Hi!

This entry will feature 3 of the new Clarins Gloss Prodige which will be released in Feburary. Each of these retails for S$35. For more technical information on these glosses, do click on this entry where I shared the collection information.

These are very glossy lipglosses, and provide some shine. They also contain subtle shimmer bits which aren't gritty at all, and gives you just a bit of sparkle on your lips, and aren't really sticky. The glosses are also very smooth and moisturising. I do like the Clarins range of lip products (my fave is their Hydra Nude range). I love the scent of all Clarins lip products - very fruity and kinda like sweet raspberries.

I like how these glosses make my lips look smooth sort of filling in the lines, and give rather decent color payoff. The rectangular applicator tip gives you precise enough control when you get to the inner corner of your mouth.

I have here three of the eight shades:

08 Papaya - Natural coral

05 Grenadine - Bright pinky red

06 Raspberry - Rosy red

08 Papaya

05 Grenadine

06 Raspberry

Bottomline: I highly recommend these, grab at least two (or three) when you check out these glosses when they are available.

Hope these swatches have been helpful. Thank you for looking.

ps: Clarins products are given to me for consideration.

Posted on January 22, 2012 at 2:32AM | Permalink | 3 Comments

Filed in: Clarins, Swatches, Lip products, makeup and beauty, Gloss Prodige | Tagged with: clarins, swatches, Makeup and Beauty, Lip products, Gloss Prodige

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Product Empties Part One: Cleansers & Skincare [May 2013]

Travel Skincare Faves (Dec 2012)

Clarins Skin Illusion Loose Powder Foundation

NEW Clarins Shaping Lift Range [Photos & Information]

Clarins White Plus HP Sea Lily Enriched SPF 30/PA+++ Whitening Powder Foundation

NEW Clarins Total Cleansing Oil

Celebrate & Win the Renanthera Clarins Christian & Olivier Orchid Brooch!‏

Skincare Chat [March 2012]

NEW Clarins UV Plus HP Day Care SPF40 Beige [Information, Photos & Swatches]

NEW Clarins Gloss Prodige [Photos & Swatches]

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