In partnership with Clarins 

Some skincare formulas are so good, they're timeless. Clarins Double Serum is a product that falls into this category. It originally launched in 1985 – almost 40 years ago – and was immediately successful thanks to its efficacy and innovative dual-chamber bottle. Unlike other serums on the market, it combined two separate formulas the exact moment the product was applied (one being aqueous, and the other a lipid base, similar in the way that our moisture barrier works). This meant more ingredients, more benefits, and thus healthier looking skin. It's still considered to be one of the best-selling serums of all time.

Clarins has always been known for its leading use of natural ingredients — the Double Serum has actually been innovated nine times to incorporate the latest in plant science.  The hallmarks of the original formula are still there, but the latest iteration of Double Serum includes new extracts, and even more impressive stats to back them up. If you're looking for a one-and-done skincare product and are yet to try Double Serum, now's the perfect time.

All the details on the updated formula, below.

What's changed?

Double Serum has always favoured plant ingredients to nourish and protect the skin, improving signs of ageing such as fine lines, tone and texture. The updated formula calls on the original 22 proven plant extracts, as well as never-used-before giant Provençal reed. Hand-picked in the South of France exclusively for Clarins, clinical research has shown the reed improves the skin's resistance to environmental damage, preventing signs of accelerated ageing. In a consumer study, 94% of women that have tried Double Serum claim their skin looks more youthful the following day. Impressive.

There's also turmeric extract, or turmerone, that works to improve cell communication within the skin. When our cells are working properly, our skin is at its healthiest. It's radiant, hydrated and bouncy. It regenerates effectively, looks youthful and is even in tone. Double Serum essentially works to keep our skin at its healthy best, for as long as possible. It's not trying to 'change' our skin's biological processes — our skin already does that. Instead, what it's doing is ensuring our complexion is resistant to damage. It's the smartest way to approach complexion health and a method that's proven to work.

Who is Clarins Double Serum for?

Double Serum is one of those rare skincare products that really is good for everyone. Because it's encouraging healthy skin processes, it can be used to prevent signs of ageing (think future-proofing your face) as well as to target existing lines and wrinkles. It's silky but light, so absorbs quickly, and thanks to its plant-derived formulation, is suitable for even the most sensitive skin.

It's a good choice for anyone who prefers a streamlined routine (as it does it all) or can be easily incorporated with other ingredients. Personally I love it in the morning because the oil-rich consistency gives the best glow under SPF and light makeup.

How should I be using it?

Double Serum works day or night or both. The bottle can be adjusted to deliver the right amount of product for your preferences, while the silky formula is easily absorbed but deeply hydrating. Use it on clean skin under your moisturiser and sunscreen, if you're wearing it.

Clarins Double Serum