Secret Beauty Blog -

Clarins have really pulled out all the stops with this gorgeous collection for Summer 2011 and I was lucky to get my hands on a few pieces to show you. The gorgeous mosaic bronzer is the focal point of this collection, with the extremely popular Crystal lip balms making a comeback, along with my new obsession, Colour Quench lip balms which are packed with shimmer and are perfect for sexy, summer nights.

The Mosaique Collection

Mosaique Summer Bronzing Compact £26.00

The fusion of texture and shades of this multi-toned bronzing powder make for the perfect bronzed glow. The terracotta mix adds a more realistic tan effect, and just a light dusting is enough for a ‘back from the beach’ hue. The quality is absolutely amazing, as you would expect from a high-end product, it simple glides on the skin almost like a creme but maintains a toasted, soft-focus sheen that lasts all day. With the large mirror, this is definitely a holiday handbag essential.

L-R Crystal lip balms in Crystal Coral & Crystal £16.50

The prettiest lip balms ever, no? Although I don’t find these hydrating enough personally they work well under lipsticks and have an almost matte feel to them, there’s no stickyness or slippy Vaseline-type feel which is something I personally hate but my lips are so dry I do need something a bit more emollient. Unfortunately there is little colour pay off, they are extremely sheer but they were Clarins ’speediest sell-out limited edition lip formula ever’. So clearly I’m of bad taste! Not pictured but also available is Crystal Red.

L-R Colour Quench lip balm in Pink Marshmallow – Rasberry Smoothie – Strawberry Sorbet £15.00

Completely in love with Strawberry Sorbet! So beautiful with a tan, the smooth glossy formula really keeps my lips soft but without that dreaded sticky sheen. Easy to apply and build up, if you buy one lip product this Summer make it one of these. You can have a natural ‘just eaten a slice of melon’ smile or a more full on opaque pout with a few swipes. The flavour is really nice too, not too noticeable but fresh and non-offensive. Wear time is only 2-3 hours but they softness lasts all day, my lips were comfortable until my next application and they really felt nourished. Although they’re shot with shimmer, there is no gritty feel and there is a shade to suit everyone. Not pictured but also available are Peach Nectar, Candy Pink, Delicious Plum, Sweet Papaya & Sweet Fig.

L-R Pink Marshmallow – Rasberry Smoothie – Strawberry Sorbet

On counters and online from June