Sandra‘s Closet

In the summertime, it is hard to wear foundations as most of the time, you look like you are literally melting away. Therefore it’s best to go easy on the makeup and to choose the right formulas such as tinted moisturizers. If you want to wear heavier foundation, look for a product that controls oil.

Here are three amazing products for you:

ESTÉE LAUDER INVISIBLE FLUID MAKEUP

See no makeup; feel no makeup. The first-of-its-kind IntuiTone™ technology guarantees your true-to-life shade and keeps it real in every light. Fresh, flawless and radiant. Ultra-light, ultra-breathable and oil-free. It will change how you feel about makeup forever. Available in 12 long-lasting shades for beautiful skin of every ethnicity. It lasts all day, controls excess oil and won’t clog pores. Very important to know is that you have to shake it well with each application for fresh, perfectly blended makeup and if you need extra coverage, just add another layer.

CHF 54.- (30ml)

CLARINS EVER MATTE

An anti-shine, skin-balancing oil-free formula, ideal for women looking for a matte appearance in all circumstances. The plant-based “Skin Detox” complex helps regulate oil production and tighten pores. Its lightweight texture blends easily and allows skin to breathe without drying. The complexion appears more beautiful thanks to an invisible, long-lasting matte “veil” that evens skin tone and keeps skin shinefree from morning to evening. Unrivalled radiance: Clarins exclusive “Light-Optimizing+” complex captures, diffuses and magnifies light. Fine lines and small imperfections are visibly minimized. The complexion appears more even and radiant. SPF 15. Matte finish – Medium coverage , for all skin types with anti-pollution protection.

CHF 48.- (30ml)

CLINIQUE STAY-MATTE OIL-FREE MAKEUP

An oil-free makeup that helps you stay matte all day.
 This formula absorbs shine, controls oil, resists sweat and has been tested for streaking and fading at 25°C / 88°F with a constant 80% humidity. Laminaria Saccaharina extract helps regulate sebum production to give less surface oil, while siliceous earth absorbs oil from the skin surface to keep it feeling fresh.

It’s a must-buy summer foundation for all powder-only ladies with oily skin as it won’t show the lines so easily. Trust me on that one.

CHF 43.- (30ml)

LoL, Sandra

Photo: © Sandra Bauknecht, Stills: Courtesy of Estée Lauder, Clarins and Clinique

Clarins Eau des Jardins is a wellness scent of orange zest, grapefruit and wild rose petals that invigorates the senses by combining fragrance and treatment benefits of plant extracts so you smell and feel good, too! The products are meant to help you focus and get on track, what a great way to start your day. To complement the line, Clarins has launched two new body products scented with the same blend, a body wash and a body cream.

UPLIFTING SHOWER GEL, CHF 32.- (150ml)

What a delicious way to cleanse your skin! The uplifting fragrance of Eau des Jardins blends with the gentleness of a rich, foaming lather that gives you an instant well-being. It is soap-free and ph-balanced which means suitable for all skin types. Showering becomes a source of beauty.

SMOOTHING BODY CREAM, CHF 50.- (200ml)

The cream has an interesting formula, irresistibly smooth to the touch – it seems to be watery and absorbs almost instantly into the skin. You are totally moisturized in a snap.

The smell of Clarins Eau des Jardins is so beautiful and uplifting that you could totally use those body products in combination with your very own perfume. Available at all Clarins counters.

LoL, Sandra

Photo: © Sandra Bauknecht

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Today, I would like to introduce you to the new extra-firming range of Clarins. The reason for my trip to the Royal Monceau in Paris last month.

Clarins Multi-Régénérante has been the anti-age cream in France since 15 years with 1.9 million sold each year. You might ask what is the reason for changing such a bestselling product?

Dr. Lionel de Benetti with me

Dr. Lionel de Benetti, Clarins’ chief scientist, who has dedicated over 30 years to the brand’s development and who is probably the most charismatic scientist on earth with the capability to explain his research findings in a fun and easy-to-understand way has found new little molecules that helped him to reveal the links behind firmness.

So-called emilin-1 is a component of the elastic fibre which acts to keep the collagen fibres together. After 40, its release diminishes and the skin looses its firmness. Lionel de Benetti has found out, that organic lemon thyme extracts can help to augment the emilin-1 synthesis more than 50% and that green banana in combination with bocoa tree extracts preserve the connections between fibres and cells.

The result: The appearance of wrinkles is visibly reduced, facial contours are reshaped and features are younger-looking.

An immediate “lifting” effect. Oat sugars instantly smooth away fine lines, while hyaluronic acid replenishes skin. 
The texture is the most sensual that you can imagine, inspired by the most luxurious fabrics. It leaves the skin velvety-soft with a matte finish allowing for easy make-up application.

Multi-Régénérante Jour – Crème lift anti-rides – Toutes peaux 50ml
(Extra-Firming Day – Wrinkle lifting cream – All skin types) 1.7 Oz.
CHF 109.-

or

Multi-Régénérante Jour – Crème lift anti-rides – Spéciale peaux sèches 50ml
(Extra-Firming Day – Wrinkle lifting cream – Special for dry skin) 1.7 Oz.
CHF 109.-

or

Multi-Régénérante Jour – Fluide lift anti-rides SPF 15 – Toutes peaux 50ml
(Extra-Firming Day – Wrinkle lifting lotion – All skin types) 1.7 Oz.
CHF 105.-

Me at the press conference in Paris trying out the new products.

Below you can find the ideal component to Extra-Firming day care:

Multi-Régénérante Night (Extra-Firming Night) tones the epidermis for firmer skin with a peptide coming from the stem cell research, so-called Survixyl IS™. It is similar to a protein in the skin and protects stem cells at the origin of epidermal renewal. Stimulen®, a combination of vitamin E and amino acids, reinforces this regenerating action by preserving Langerhans cells, “guardian” cells of the epidermis which defend skin against aggressions.

The result: Because it renews and defends itself better, your skin appears smoother and firmer. The appearance of wrinkles is reduced, facial contours reshaped and features are more defined.

A more even complexion is achieved through lotus extract which prevents the appearance of dark spots. Skin looks rested and radiant.

Multi-Régénérante Nuit – Crème raffermissante – Toutes peaux 50ml
(Extra-Firming Night – Rejuvenating cream – All skin types) 1.7 Oz.
CHF 116.-

or

Multi-Régénérante Nuit – Crème raffermissante – Spéciale peaux sèches 50ml
(Extra-Firming Night – Rejuvenating cream – Special for dry skin) 1.7 Oz.
CHF 116.-

Available end of January 2012.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Clarins, © Sandra Bauknecht

Last month, I was invited by Clarins to Paris for the launch of their newest products (stay tuned for the upcoming post on those amazing new beauty must-haves). I stayed at the Royal Monceau where the presentation and dinner also took place. One of the reasons why Clarins chose this newly renovated hotel that was re-imagined by the famous Philippe Starck is their amazing My Blend by Clarins (a new revolutionary approach on personalized skincare) spa.

Le Royal Monceau has always embodied “Parisian elegance” in all its spontaneity, culture and sagacity. Philippe Starck captured the spirit in perfection. The Royal Monceau is one of the nicest hotels I stayed in recently and I can only recommend it. Please see for yourself!

My look: Patchwork coat by Louis Vuitton, silk-crepe top by Vionnet, alpaca and wool gilet by Gucci, stretch-leather leggings by The Row, scarf by Chanel, Pistol leather ankle boots by Acne and animal-print Boston bag by Céline.

I travelled for the first time with my new Victorinox Spectra trolley (Thank you!) that works as a carry-on luggage perfectly and has a lot of space.

Some impressions of my room.

View from my hotel room.

Clarins Spa offers 4 new spa body treatments with 18 new exclusive PRO formula products. The Body Sculptor, The Moisture Quencher, The Firming Age Corrector and The Body Polisher are based upon a selection of masks, supplements and pure plant body oils from the PRO range, chosen by the therapist to meet your skin’s individual needs. The Clarins PRO products are truly amazing and are totally working their magic. All treatments are done manually which is the best to me. To search for the Clarins institut nearest to you, please click here.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht

A little, a lot passionately!

Ultra-feminine passion red combines with elegant gold. Eye shadows and powder are decorated with sparkling pearl. Silky textures melt into skin and last until dawn. Passion by Clarins offers everything you need to look chic during the festive holiday season.

Passion Face Palette – CHF 78.-

The star product of the collection is a precious powder presented in a gold case with a graphic design inspired by Art Deco motifs. An ultra-fine gold pearl shimmer helps you to subtly illuminate the face and décolleté for the festive season.

Passion Ombre Minérale 4 Couleurs  – CHF 62.-
Long-Lasting – Wet & Dry

Focus on the eyes with this palette for the perfect „smokey eyes“ look. The pearl texture of the highlighter is easy to use and leaves the eyelid ultra-shimmery. It can be used also as a base for your eye make-up. The three powder eye shadows can be used wet or dry, leaving you the decision if you prefer a more natural or more intense look. Flawless hold guaranteed.

How to create your Passion „smokey eyes“ look?

From left to right:
Apply make-up
1. Apply the coppery pink on the half of the top eyelid, to the inner corner of the eye.
2. Then the silvery grey on the other half, t the outer corner of the eye.

Intensify
3. Using the finer applicator, emphasize eyes with the charcoal grey eyeliner.

Highlight
4. Apply the silver highlighter in touches, on the inner corner of the eye.

Rouge Prodige – CHF 37.-
True-Hold – Colour & Shine Lipstick
131 Passion Rose

This limited edition shade in pearly rosewood with a subtle bronze shimmer would suit most skin tones. Not too light, not too dark, it is the perfect tone for winter. The sensously velvet texture provides a total comfort while remaining shiny for a long time. Let the party go on!

My beauty must-have: Rouge Prodige Passion Rose, I have one in my bag… love it!

All three limited-edition products are in shops now and as the season of goodwill is almost upon us, it is time to glam up…

LoL, Sandra

Today, I would like to introduce you to an eye makeup collection that is easy to apply. Do you like smokey eyes, natural or dramatic, but don’t know how to get the look?
Clarins gives you the answer with their new products that are truly amazing.

The eye shadows play on colour for a variety of looks. The formula can be used dry for a natural result or wet for an intense, sophisticated touch. The extremely supple texture provides perfect hold all day long.

Ombre Minérale 4 Couleurs comes in six colour combinations., CHF 62 each.

Each variation comprises two satin shades, a darker eye shadow liner and an iridescent highlighter to mix and match to suit you.

How to apply the eye shadows:

Step 1: Make-up

Apply shade 1 on one half of the top eyelid, up to the inner corner of the eye, then shade 2 on the other half, up to the outer corner of the eye.

Step 2: Intensify

Using the finer applicator, accentuate eyes with the shadow liner 3.

Step 3: Illuminate

Apply the highlighter 4 in touches on the brow bone.

The final step is the mascara. Clarins has invented a cutting-edge technology which makes applying mascara simple: The Instant Definition Mascara.

The new high-tech double brush was inspired by the way classic mascara is applied. The brush lengthens and separates every lash, including short ones, for a spectacular „wide angle“ result.

The new mascara comes in three different colours, CHF 41 each.

Here is the easy technique in 2 steps:

Step 1: Apply make-up to lashes

Apply mascara to top and bottom lashes, from root to tip, with the fibre brush. The creamy texture allows you to customize the volumizing effect as you apply, to create the look you want.

Step 2: Define the eyes

With the elastomer brush, apply mascara to the smallest lashes at the inner and outer corner of eyes, top and bottom. Groom and separate lashes one by one and optimize the distribution of mascara.

Have fun accentuating your eyes!

LoL, Sandra