The Philosophy
Caudalie are all about natural, organic products. Who isn't? What really struck me was their use of fair trade ingredients. That is something I feel companies don't boast about, and frankly it is because they can't. Caudalie definitely have their corporate social responsibility down pat. That is something I appreciate.
Their main focus is on grapes and their by-products, whether it be the grapevine stalks or the sap - you name it, they probably have it.
They also make their stance on parabens, phenoxyethonol, pthalates etc very clear. I do feel they are on the over cautious side of things but good on them anyway! I can understand how tricky it can be to formulate skin care without the use of such ingredients.
The Product
Encapsulated in a beautiful glass bottle, this spray claims to enhance the skin, smooth away fine lines, tighten pores, set makeup and, give a boost of radiance. So that's what a beauty elixr is… It’s a great way for them to put all these features under one multipurpose name.
The bottle is super sleek, so popping it in the handbag is handy despite being glass. I have not regret my purchase of the Jason Wu design - totally worth.
The Application
The nozzle of most sprays is the deal breaker for me. Josie Maran's Nirvana spray along with Ren's Anti-Pollution spray have super fine nozzles and its one thing I appreciate. Caudalie's Beauty Elixr is no different. The spray disperses in what looks like a soft cloud, rather than a forceful one. The fact they achieved this with heavier essential oils is already a bonus in my books.
The first thing I did notice was the smell. The strong, almost herbal smell kinda hits you in the face. If you're not one for fragrances, this is not the one for you. It kind of reminds me of a Thai massage or a yoga retreat. The oils are calming and add to the unique features of the product.
All in all, my face wasn't dripping with water and I was left feeling uber calm.
The Result
When I first used this, I have to say I was not all that impressed. My skin didn't feel all that different - then again I wasn't using the most reliable testing methods. #smart
Fast track to today and boy do I love this stuff. I tested it for two of their claims - as a skincare product and as a makeup setting spray. For topping off your skincare regime it is beautiful. You are left with an amazing glow, one that isn't greasy nor overly shiny. My skin just appeared fresh. I tried it under my serums (because why not) and noticed it helped with the spreadability of my skincare products. Pores were definitely smaller and my skin looked healthy
As a setting spray, it worked decently well. It really helped to achieve that VS Fashion Show glow.
The Rundown
This is the first time I've looked at the ingredients of a spray bottle that has so many oils in it. No wonder you have to shake it. I noticed that the alcohol content was fairly high in the list (second actually) and I'm sure it does evaporate upon skin contact. The oils/ingredients that really drew my attention were:
- CITRUS AURANTIUM AMARA (BITTER ORANGE) FLOWER WATER - The bitter orange oil itself is considered an anti-inflammatory and a sedative. Great for sensitive, delicate skin. As a water, it's soothing properties are more apparent.
- ROSMARINUS OFFICINALIS (ROSEMARY) LEAF OIL - this is a lovely oil, great for healing wounds and having anti-septic properties. This one would be the culprit for my smaller pores. Great as an astringent and toner.
- MENTHA PIPERITA (PEPPERMINT) OIL - super refreshing and cooling, this oil provides an anti-irritant and anti-bacterial essence to the spray.
- STYRAX TONKINENSIS RESIN EXTRACT - typically this essential oil can cause some sensitisation and should be used in low dilutions. It provides more of a calming effect.
There are many more, but you get the gist. Most of the ingredients are naturally derived, so if you're into your botanical ingredients this one is for you. To me, the ingredients seem to conflict a bit. There are some soothing, calming ingredients but then there's a substantial amount of perfume and essential ingredients that can make the skin sensitised. I recommend patch testing first and seeing if you even like the smell. If you can take it, then enjoy the wonders of the beauty elixr.