The Samples: Clarins Toning Lotion with Iris and Gentle Exfoliating Toner with Tamarind

                                  

 

I love sample size products because they just look so cute and it gives you a cheap chance to try out products. I went in to try out the Clinique Brow Pencil as there were no MAC counters near to me. You all know I love my MAC Brow Pencil in Stud. The Clinique Sales Lady was not in but the Clarins Sales Lady was there and she helped me with my Clinique purchase and we started chatting and she was really helpful and friendly. Although, I did not buy anything from Clarins, she gave me these samples to try out. What a jolly lady she was!!! She gave me the Clarins Toning Lotion with Iris (for combination to oily skin) and the Clarins Gentle Exfoliating Brightening Toner. I really like Clarins because most of the ingredients used in their formulation are derived from plant products and natural derivatives. Can we just take a moment to appreciate how dainty these samples look? I think they look so cute! Now this is not a full review because I believe a full review should be with a full size product so I would say this is more of a first impression and thoughts kind of post....let's dive in

Clarins Toning Lotion with Iris

Now, this has a slight fragrance which I really don't mind at all; in fact I actually find it pleasant. I use a cotton pad with this and I find that it has a slight hydrating effect on my skin. It refreshes my skin and you can tell that something different is happening after you apply it. It does not contain alcohol so there is no fear of drying out the skin. It might be my imagination but it does feel really cooling when it hits my skin but not in a "minty" way just in a really nice refreshing way (I am aware I have mentioned that it's refreshing already). I think this may be down to the Iris content; just maybe. When I run out of my current toning lotions, I may buy the full size of this because it's really lovely.

Clarins Gentle Exfoliating Brigthening Toner

This was the sample I was originally after and I am glad the Clarins lady had one left in her stash. I had heard about this toner from quite a few blogs so I was naturally interested. Anything that says exfoliating gets me excited because as you may know by now, I am looking to clear my hyperpigmentation left from some evil acne I once had. I am glad at least my breakouts are now under control (hallelujah). I like the fact that it says gentle which means even people with sensitive skin can use this. It contains Tamarind and White Nettle which have exfoliating and brightening abilities. It also says on the tiny packaging that it contains AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid) which are known for its exfoliating, brightening and cell renewal properties. This also means you have to use a sunscreen to protect your skin as the AHAs make it more sensitive to sunlight. I really like this toner because I feel it has helped my skin despite the tiny amount and short time I have used it. It has a distinct smell of citrus which I really like as well and you can tell I like fragrances in skin care and I am lucky my skin does not mind. This toner is definitely one on my wish list having tried it now. That's it folks and see you in my next post...x