As part of our product reviews, we’re looking at the latest and most exciting beauty-buys that take your skin type and skin issue into consideration. That way, you’ll know exactly what to expect when the newest products hit the shelves. For this article, we reviewed the new Guerlain Orchidée Impériale Longevity Concentrate Serum.
What Does It Do?
As we age, the body’s ability to produce collagen and elastin – two proteins that help to keep the skin firm and supple – decreases. This results in a loss of volume in the skin, followed by the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
The new serum from Guerlain is designed to target wrinkles and dullness, thus when applied, it activates in areas of volume loss. This, in turn, results in denser and flawless skin.
What Can You Expect From This Guerlain Serum?
Volume loss in the skin leads to visible signs of aging in the form of fine lines and wrinkles.
While definitely on the more pricy side, the new serum from Guerlain will help to combat this volume loss. It penetrates quickly into the skin and it doesn’t clog your pores – despite its dense formula. Once absorbed, the fragranced product serves to ease the appearance of fine lines all while improving the firmness, elasticity, evenness, and density of the skin.
Additionally, the packaging highlights Guerlain’s eco-friendly commitment. The serum is packaged inside an airless compartment which is then placed into a glass bottle – this ensures that the formula is protected from oxidation all while preserving its active properties. Once the product is finished, the airless compartment can be separated from the glass bottle and the bottle can then be recycled.
Key Ingredients
The main ingredient in Guerlain’s entire Orchidée Impériale range is the orchid. Due to its skincare potential, Guerlain has set up its first-ever research center where scientists are studying and exploring the potential of orchids in skin longevity.
In terms of anti-aging, orchids contain anthocyanins – flavonoids that help to prevent premature aging by minimizing the effects of oxidative stress and easing inflammation.
Another notable natural ingredient is the tiger nut extract – which was chosen due to its ability to provide the skin with support and resilience.
Lastly, rose multiflora fruit extract is added, thanks to its ability to minimize the appearance of pores, which then leaves a radiant and flawless complexion.
The Science Behind It
The papillary dermis is the uppermost layer of the skin dermis and it is concentrated in collagen and elastin fibers.
Unfortunately, the aging process causes a breakdown of the papillary dermis. This then results in loss of facial density, volume and visible signs of aging. To counter this, the new serum from Guerlain sets out to restore volume and facial density to the papillary dermis.
In addition to the tiger nut extract – which strengthens the structure and fibers of the papillary dermis – the serum also contains Guerlain’s patented Cell Respiration Technology, which prevents the breakdown of the papillary dermis by providing oxygen to its cells. In doing so, the cells are able to breathe again which then, in turn, boosts cell regeneration and lessens the appearance of dull, aging skin.
How Do You Use It?
Longevity Concentrate serum can be applied mornings and evenings before the use of day and night creams.
The massage technique was devised by experts at Guerlain to better optimize the effectiveness of the serum. Firstly, apply the product in circular movements, from the inside of the face outwards and be sure to include the neck area. Follow this by pinching the skin and rotating your wrists for a quarter turn all over your face. Next, place your hands in a V-shape at the bottom of your face and apply pressure in an upward direction like a wave. Once this is done, finish off the application by tapping your fingertips all over your face.
You can purchase the serum for R8600 at Edgars Sandton and Edgars V&A.
