a hoarder's blog

Clarins, the body contouring expert, has made further advances in its understanding of cellulite. A major scientific discovery is at the origin of a new generation of Body Lift which, in addition to reducing existing cellulite, also slows down the formation of new cellulite. Body Lift Cellulite Control is the first Clarins contouring care to take up this dual challenge.

CELLULITE: A STORY OF CELLS WHICH STORE FAT

Here's a simple summary of the scientific discovery made by Clarins (I hope I didn't interprete wrongly, it shouldn't be too far off):

Adipocytes (cells that store fat) expand when there is too much fat to store. When they run out of space to store excess fat, new adipocytes are needed. Progenitor cells (essential for the renewal of adipose tissue) mutiply and some turn into pre-adipocytes, then into adypocytes. As the cells get fatter, there is a decrease in oxygen circulation and the deprivation of adequate oxygen supply also encourages the multiplication of progenitor cells. 

Not enough adipocyte cells to store fat -> Progenitor cells turn into adipocytes -> More fat storage -> Less oxygen in the tissue ->  More progenitor cells .... So goes the vicious cycle.

Body Lift Cellulite Control contains active ingredients that act at every stage of the formation of adipose tissue and therefore effectively reduces the look of cellulite and helps prevent the formation of new cellulite.

Key Plant Ingredients
Two key plant extracts that fight each stage of cellulite formation - to reduce stubborn cellulite and prevent its return.

• Aquatic mint extract limits the hypoxia of adipose tissue responsible for the multiplication of progenitor cells.
• Celosia extract slows the differentiation of progenitor cells into preadipocytes to limit the expansion of adipose tissue.

A GLOBAL CONTOURING ACTION
1. An immediate lifting effect
2. Firmer skin 
3. The microcirculation is stimulated to reduce feelings of heaviness
4. Nourished and moisturized skin

It is recommended to use the application method developed by Clarins specialists to optimize the effectiveness of Body Lift Cellulite Control. The following video shows you how. It looks simple enough, but I don't always have the time to do everything. The most that I've done is apply on my legs cos that's where I can see most of my cellulite buildup. I think I need to start on the tummy too now cos I've grown a kangooroo pouch and it's ughh ugly!!

I still have some of the "old" version of Body Lift which I bought a couple of years back (on the left). On the right is the new bottle.

Texure-wise, the old one has some granules that dissolve as you massage the cream in, while the new one has a cream-gel consistency. Both produce this cooling sensation on your skin and smell more or less the same. They feel sticky at first, but they absorb very well and the stickiness disappears leaving the skin feeling very smooth.

Because no cosmetic product alone can make you slimmer, Clarins has always stressed the importance of a balanced diet combined with regular exercise. Here's another video which shows you how skipping can help you burn fat. 

Clarins Body Lift Cellulite Control is already available at all Clarins counters and retails at $88 for 200ml.

DISCLAIMER: Products in this entry were sent to me by Clarins for consideration.  Information taken from press file. I wasn't paid to do this and I'm not affiliated to Clarins in any way. Opinions expressed here are my own

Clarins, the body contouring expert, has made further advances in its understanding of cellulite. A major scientific discovery is at the origin of a new generation of Body Lift which, in addition to reducing existing cellulite, also slows down the formation of new cellulite. Body Lift Cellulite Control is the first Clarins contouring care to take up this dual challenge.

CELLULITE: A STORY OF CELLS WHICH STORE FAT

Here's a simple summary of the scientific discovery made by Clarins (I hope I didn't interprete wrongly, it shouldn't be too far off):

Adipocytes (cells that store fat) expand when there is too much fat to store. When they run out of space to store excess fat, new adipocytes are needed. Progenitor cells (essential for the renewal of adipose tissue) mutiply and some turn into pre-adipocytes, then into adypocytes. As the cells get fatter, there is a decrease in oxygen circulation and the deprivation of adequate oxygen supply also encourages the multiplication of progenitor cells. 

Not enough adipocyte cells to store fat -> Progenitor cells turn into adipocytes -> More fat storage -> Less oxygen in the tissue ->  More progenitor cells .... So goes the vicious cycle.

Body Lift Cellulite Control contains active ingredients that act at every stage of the formation of adipose tissue and therefore effectively reduces the look of cellulite and helps prevent the formation of new cellulite.

Key Plant Ingredients
Two key plant extracts that fight each stage of cellulite formation - to reduce stubborn cellulite and prevent its return.

• Aquatic mint extract limits the hypoxia of adipose tissue responsible for the multiplication of progenitor cells.
• Celosia extract slows the differentiation of progenitor cells into preadipocytes to limit the expansion of adipose tissue.

A GLOBAL CONTOURING ACTION
1. An immediate lifting effect
2. Firmer skin 
3. The microcirculation is stimulated to reduce feelings of heaviness
4. Nourished and moisturized skin

It is recommended to use the application method developed by Clarins specialists to optimize the effectiveness of Body Lift Cellulite Control. The following video shows you how. It looks simple enough, but I don't always have the time to do everything. The most that I've done is apply on my legs cos that's where I can see most of my cellulite buildup. I think I need to start on the tummy too now cos I've grown a kangooroo pouch and it's ughh ugly!!

I still have some of the "old" version of Body Lift which I bought a couple of years back (on the left). On the right is the new bottle.

Texure-wise, the old one has some granules that dissolve as you massage the cream in, while the new one has a cream-gel consistency. Both produce this cooling sensation on your skin and smell more or less the same. They feel sticky at first, but they absorb very well and the stickiness disappears leaving the skin feeling very smooth.

Because no cosmetic product alone can make you slimmer, Clarins has always stressed the importance of a balanced diet combined with regular exercise. Here's another video which shows you how skipping can help you burn fat. 

Clarins Body Lift Cellulite Control is already available at all Clarins counters and retails at $88 for 200ml.

DISCLAIMER: Products in this entry were sent to me by Clarins for consideration.  Information taken from press file. I wasn't paid to do this and I'm not affiliated to Clarins in any way. Opinions expressed here are my own

This March sees the launch of a new addition to UV Plus HP range. Clarins is pleased to introduce its BB Cream SPF 40 to meet the unique needs of Asian women. Its city‑proof formula was specially developed just for them. The silky‑smooth texture delivers perfect coverage, a more even skin tone, prettier‑looking skin and a high level of protection.

Formulated with an extract of organic blackcurrant bud, Clarins Perfecting Cream meets the special needs of Asian women’s skin. It promotes flawless‑looking skin and ensures triple protection from the sun, pollution and oxidative stress. The results are spectacular; your skin never looked so good!

AN INCOMPARABLE TEXTURE

Pure happiness upon application
Smooth and rich, Clarins BB Cream is easy to apply and blends instantly into the skin. 


Ideal coverage
Clarins Research was committed to developing a texture that offered Asian skin types thorough, even coverage that looked natural and never heavy. 


Ideal colour
Another challenge met by Clarins Research: elaborating a shade that complimented Asian women’s skin tone. Thanks to this ideal shade, BB Cream SPF 40 makes it possible to minimize the look of any red areas, dark spots and minor imperfections. The complexion appears more even instantly and remains impeccable and luminous for hours.

REAL SKIN CARE BENEFITS

Organic blackcurrant bud extract

To optimize the skin care benefits of BB Cream SPF 40, Clarins Research selected organic blackcurrant bud extract to use in this exceptional formula. The bud is the most precious part of a plant. It contains proanthocyanidins, vegetal substances known for their antioxidant properties that give the product its soothing benefit.


Results
At the heart of BB Cream SPF 40’s formula, organic blackcurrant bud extract helps minimize any redness caused by a busy lifestyle. Day after day, it helps promote more beautiful-looking skin.

TRIPLE PROTECTION FOR CITY LIFE

Like the other products in the UV PLUS HP SPF40 range, BB Cream SPF 40 provides the skin with triple protection against UV rays, oxidative stress and pollution, ideal for those who live in a city.


Very high UV protection
A 100% mineral screen ensures a high level of protection against UVB and UVA rays (PA+++) with an optimal tolerance even for those with delicate skin. It helps preserve clear, youthful-looking skin while helping to prevent the formation of dark spots.


Cantaloupe melon extract helps fight the effects of oxidative stress
This extract enhances the skin’s ability to fight premature signs of ageing by reinforcing its system’s antioxidant protection that can be altered by time, a hectic lifestyle and environmental aggressors.


Clarins exclusive Anti-Pollution Complex
Based on plant extracts and bio-tech ingredients, this complex ensures reinforced protection against the potentially harmful effects of pollution and modern life.

WOMEN LOVED IT

72%* of the women preferred Clarins BB Cream SPF 40 to their regular BB Cream. 

80%* of the women would recommend it to a friend.

*satisfaction test based on 50 Asian women after 4 weeks of usage.

Here's a swatch of the BB cream. It has a very creamy smooth formula and feels quite rich.

Blending out with my fingers.

After blending out, the cream sinks really well into my skin and gives it a semi-matte finish. The powdery floral scent of the cream wears off after a while, at least I don't smell it anymore. The coverage is pretty good as it manages to conceal the redness and spots on my face and evens out my complexion. I have been wearing this to work for the past week with just some powder on top and am liking it a lot. It does what it should do, providing evened out, radiant skin with good UV protection.

The other product in the UV Plus HP range is the day screen SPF40 in three shades, previously featured here and here.

The BB cream retails at SGD74 for 30ml. Visit any Clarins counter for a trial supply of the UV Plus HP BB Cream SPF40 with a complimentary skin consultation.

DISCLAIMER: Products in this entry were sent to me by Clarins for consideration.  Information taken from press file. I wasn't paid to do this and I'm not affiliated to Clarins in any way. Opinions expressed here are my own.

This March sees the launch of a new addition to UV Plus HP range. Clarins is pleased to introduce its BB Cream SPF 40 to meet the unique needs of Asian women. Its city‑proof formula was specially developed just for them. The silky‑smooth texture delivers perfect coverage, a more even skin tone, prettier‑looking skin and a high level of protection.

Formulated with an extract of organic blackcurrant bud, Clarins Perfecting Cream meets the special needs of Asian women’s skin. It promotes flawless‑looking skin and ensures triple protection from the sun, pollution and oxidative stress. The results are spectacular; your skin never looked so good!

AN INCOMPARABLE TEXTURE

Pure happiness upon application
Smooth and rich, Clarins BB Cream is easy to apply and blends instantly into the skin. 


Ideal coverage
Clarins Research was committed to developing a texture that offered Asian skin types thorough, even coverage that looked natural and never heavy. 


Ideal colour
Another challenge met by Clarins Research: elaborating a shade that complimented Asian women’s skin tone. Thanks to this ideal shade, BB Cream SPF 40 makes it possible to minimize the look of any red areas, dark spots and minor imperfections. The complexion appears more even instantly and remains impeccable and luminous for hours.

REAL SKIN CARE BENEFITS

Organic blackcurrant bud extract

To optimize the skin care benefits of BB Cream SPF 40, Clarins Research selected organic blackcurrant bud extract to use in this exceptional formula. The bud is the most precious part of a plant. It contains proanthocyanidins, vegetal substances known for their antioxidant properties that give the product its soothing benefit.


Results
At the heart of BB Cream SPF 40’s formula, organic blackcurrant bud extract helps minimize any redness caused by a busy lifestyle. Day after day, it helps promote more beautiful-looking skin.

TRIPLE PROTECTION FOR CITY LIFE

Like the other products in the UV PLUS HP SPF40 range, BB Cream SPF 40 provides the skin with triple protection against UV rays, oxidative stress and pollution, ideal for those who live in a city.


Very high UV protection
A 100% mineral screen ensures a high level of protection against UVB and UVA rays (PA+++) with an optimal tolerance even for those with delicate skin. It helps preserve clear, youthful-looking skin while helping to prevent the formation of dark spots.


Cantaloupe melon extract helps fight the effects of oxidative stress
This extract enhances the skin’s ability to fight premature signs of ageing by reinforcing its system’s antioxidant protection that can be altered by time, a hectic lifestyle and environmental aggressors.


Clarins exclusive Anti-Pollution Complex
Based on plant extracts and bio-tech ingredients, this complex ensures reinforced protection against the potentially harmful effects of pollution and modern life.

WOMEN LOVED IT

72%* of the women preferred Clarins BB Cream SPF 40 to their regular BB Cream. 

80%* of the women would recommend it to a friend.

*satisfaction test based on 50 Asian women after 4 weeks of usage.

Here's a swatch of the BB cream. It has a very creamy smooth formula and feels quite rich.

Blending out with my fingers.

After blending out, the cream sinks really well into my skin and gives it a semi-matte finish. The powdery floral scent of the cream wears off after a while, at least I don't smell it anymore. The coverage is pretty good as it manages to conceal the redness and spots on my face and evens out my complexion. I have been wearing this to work for the past week with just some powder on top and am liking it a lot. It does what it should do, providing evened out, radiant skin with good UV protection.

The other product in the UV Plus HP range is the day screen SPF40 in three shades, previously featured here and here.

The BB cream retails at SGD74 for 30ml. Visit any Clarins counter for a trial supply of the UV Plus HP BB Cream SPF40 with a complimentary skin consultation.

DISCLAIMER: Products in this entry were sent to me by Clarins for consideration.  Information taken from press file. I wasn't paid to do this and I'm not affiliated to Clarins in any way. Opinions expressed here are my own.

Imagine a serum which can defy all signs of ageing.

The five vital functions at the heart of skin's youthful beauty, namely hydration, nutrition, oxygenation, protection and regeneration, slow down due to age, stress and environmental factors, causing the skin to start showing visible signs of ageing.

Clarins Research has identified the 20 most powerful plant extracts. Together they have the power to reactivate simultaneously these five vital functions. However, it is impossible to combine all these active ingredients in a single formula. This is how a unique double formula inspired by skin's own water and oil balance, is able to combine these 20 powerful ingredients, soluble in either water or in oil, at their ideal concentration without any risk of incompability.

High-tech double pump system for an ultra precise dosage:

One pump of serum gives you this:
In summary, the Double Serum's 5 points of uniqueness:

• Unequalled efficacy with the [Hydric + Lipidic System]: the unique double formula concentrates the most powerful anti-ageing ingredients without limiting their number or risk of incompatibility.
• Targets the skin's 5 vital functions: it helps boost all of the skin's functions (hydration, nutrition, oxygenation, protection and regeneration) in order to regain a more youthful balance.
• Rich in 20 plant extracts: an exceptional vital reserve from nature where each skin type, regardless of age, uses what it needs depending on its state.
• Effective on all signs of ageing: results were proven by a wide range of tests which included more than 400 women, of which 50 were of Asian origin.
• A unique sensorial texture: the lightness of a gel combined with the comfort of a cream, a fresh, refined fragrance developed by an Asian master perfumer.

I have started using this only recently and not even that regularly. I only apply it at night now because when I use it for the day, I have the impression that my skin feels slightly oilier than usual. I find that it takes a while for the serum to sink into my skin. So it might be because I don't let it get absorbed properly in the morning when I'm rushing. And so, I decided to reserve it for my night-time routine. It smells amazingly good too and puts you in a relaxation mood before bed. When I wake up the next day, I find that my skin does look smoother and more "rested".

This has been launched over a month ago now and the price is SGD118 for 30ml.

Learn more about the Double Serum here, and if you'd like to give it a try, you can sign up for a 7 day trial here.

DISCLAIMER: Products in this entry were sent to me by Clarins for consideration.  Information taken from press file. I wasn't paid to do this and I'm not affiliated to Clarins in any way. Opinions expressed here are my own.

Imagine a serum which can defy all signs of ageing.

The five vital functions at the heart of skin's youthful beauty, namely hydration, nutrition, oxygenation, protection and regeneration, slow down due to age, stress and environmental factors, causing the skin to start showing visible signs of ageing.

Clarins Research has identified the 20 most powerful plant extracts. Together they have the power to reactivate simultaneously these five vital functions. However, it is impossible to combine all these active ingredients in a single formula. This is how a unique double formula inspired by skin's own water and oil balance, is able to combine these 20 powerful ingredients, soluble in either water or in oil, at their ideal concentration without any risk of incompability.

High-tech double pump system for an ultra precise dosage:

One pump of serum gives you this:
In summary, the Double Serum's 5 points of uniqueness:

• Unequalled efficacy with the [Hydric + Lipidic System]: the unique double formula concentrates the most powerful anti-ageing ingredients without limiting their number or risk of incompatibility.
• Targets the skin's 5 vital functions: it helps boost all of the skin's functions (hydration, nutrition, oxygenation, protection and regeneration) in order to regain a more youthful balance.
• Rich in 20 plant extracts: an exceptional vital reserve from nature where each skin type, regardless of age, uses what it needs depending on its state.
• Effective on all signs of ageing: results were proven by a wide range of tests which included more than 400 women, of which 50 were of Asian origin.
• A unique sensorial texture: the lightness of a gel combined with the comfort of a cream, a fresh, refined fragrance developed by an Asian master perfumer.

I have started using this only recently and not even that regularly. I only apply it at night now because when I use it for the day, I have the impression that my skin feels slightly oilier than usual. I find that it takes a while for the serum to sink into my skin. So it might be because I don't let it get absorbed properly in the morning when I'm rushing. And so, I decided to reserve it for my night-time routine. It smells amazingly good too and puts you in a relaxation mood before bed. When I wake up the next day, I find that my skin does look smoother and more "rested".

This has been launched over a month ago now and the price is SGD118 for 30ml.

Learn more about the Double Serum here, and if you'd like to give it a try, you can sign up for a 7 day trial here.

DISCLAIMER: Products in this entry were sent to me by Clarins for consideration.  Information taken from press file. I wasn't paid to do this and I'm not affiliated to Clarins in any way. Opinions expressed here are my own.

Follow-up post on the new Clarins Skin Illusion Loose Powder Foundation. It comes in a transparent cube and signature gold lid. I was a bit puzzled by the design when I first saw it. I didn't see the illustration on how to use it right away as it was hidden under the flap of the box. 

So here are the instructions. Pretty simple to use after you see this.

The packaging is rather chunky, but feels very sturdy and looks pretty luxe too, although fingerprints get everywhere on the gold lid.

Twist to open.

The built-in brush is dense and soft. The lid is very useful as it acts as a holder for the brush. Placed this way, you can easily pick up the brush.

When you first open your powder, you will find a sifter and a plastic insert. Remove the plastic insert carefully. You wouldn't want the powder to be flying everywhere.

Place the sifter back in. This will control the amount of powder that comes in contact with the brush.

Swirl brush into powder and pick up the amount needed for use. Tap off any excess.

After you're done, place the brush back into the lid

Twist back to close until you hear the click sound.

Some close-up pictures of the brush. It did shed a few hairs while I was using it. Other than that, it is very dense and is great at buffing the powder in. The size is perfect to reach all corners of the face.

The powder is very silky smooth and has a floral scent. The smell doesn't linger on after it's applied though, at least I don't seem to notice it.

Swatches of 108 Sand and 110 Honey.

Lightly blended in.

The powder provides light to medium coverage. Worn alone, it blends in effortlessly and looks very natural and when worn on top of a liquid foundation as loose powder,  it doesn't look cakey and thick at all. 

DISCLAIMER: Products in this entry were sent to me by Clarins for consideration. I wasn't paid to do this and I'm not affiliated to Clarins in any way. Opinions expressed here are my own.

Follow-up post on the new Clarins Skin Illusion Loose Powder Foundation. It comes in a transparent cube and signature gold lid. I was a bit puzzled by the design when I first saw it. I didn't see the illustration on how to use it right away as it was hidden under the flap of the box. 

So here are the instructions. Pretty simple to use after you see this.

The packaging is rather chunky, but feels very sturdy and looks pretty luxe too, although fingerprints get everywhere on the gold lid.

Twist to open.

The built-in brush is dense and soft. The lid is very useful as it acts as a holder for the brush. Placed this way, you can easily pick up the brush.

When you first open your powder, you will find a sifter and a plastic insert. Remove the plastic insert carefully. You wouldn't want the powder to be flying everywhere.

Place the sifter back in. This will control the amount of powder that comes in contact with the brush.

Swirl brush into powder and pick up the amount needed for use. Tap off any excess.

After you're done, place the brush back into the lid

Twist back to close until you hear the click sound.

Some close-up pictures of the brush. It did shed a few hairs while I was using it. Other than that, it is very dense and is great at buffing the powder in. The size is perfect to reach all corners of the face.

The powder is very silky smooth and has a floral scent. The smell doesn't linger on after it's applied though, at least I don't seem to notice it.

Swatches of 108 Sand and 110 Honey.

Lightly blended in.

The powder provides light to medium coverage. Worn alone, it blends in effortlessly and looks very natural and when worn on top of a liquid foundation as loose powder,  it doesn't look cakey and thick at all. 

DISCLAIMER: Products in this entry were sent to me by Clarins for consideration. I wasn't paid to do this and I'm not affiliated to Clarins in any way. Opinions expressed here are my own.

Last year, Clarins introduced Skin Illusion Natural Radiance liquid foundation. This September, Skin Illusion is 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. Available in 4 shades here: 103 ivory, 105 nude, 108 sand, 110 honey and priced at $62 for 13g.

You will find more or less the same ingredients in the liquid and loose powder foundations.

Luminosity & a bare skin effect

• Pink opal mineral powder creates an incredibly beautiful, smooth complexion with a transparent finish 
• Pink algae plant extract provides energizing and hydrating benefit

Radiance, comfort, protection

• Light-Optimizing+ complex for radiant skin in any circumstance
• Clarins exclusive Plant Micropatch® for comfortable hydrated skin
• Extracts of white tea and succory dock-cress ensures skin is protected all day long

DISCLAIMER: All Clarins products in this entry were provided to me by Clarins for consideration. Information taken from press file. I'm not affiliated to Clarins in any way. 

Last year, Clarins introduced Skin Illusion Natural Radiance liquid foundation. This September, Skin Illusion is 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. Available in 4 shades here: 103 ivory, 105 nude, 108 sand, 110 honey and priced at $62 for 13g.

You will find more or less the same ingredients in the liquid and loose powder foundations.

Luminosity & a bare skin effect

• Pink opal mineral powder creates an incredibly beautiful, smooth complexion with a transparent finish 
• Pink algae plant extract provides energizing and hydrating benefit

Radiance, comfort, protection

• Light-Optimizing+ complex for radiant skin in any circumstance
• Clarins exclusive Plant Micropatch® for comfortable hydrated skin
• Extracts of white tea and succory dock-cress ensures skin is protected all day long

DISCLAIMER: All Clarins products in this entry were provided to me by Clarins for consideration. Information taken from press file. I'm not affiliated to Clarins in any way.