With temperatures plunging outside and Sahara-dry heating indoors, autumn wreaks havoc on my skin. Dullness and dehydration exacerbate fine lines and enlarged pores, so there’s no better time to use multifunctional products to comfort a stressed complexion. And Clarins Double Serum ($134), which promises hydrating and anti-aging benefits among a slew of others, does exactly that.

Clarins, Double Serum Anti-Aging + Anti-Wrinkle Serum — $134.00

Pros:

• Addresses visible signs of skin aging including dryness, dullness, sagging, and wrinkles
• Contains 21 botanical ingredients with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-bacterial, and hydrating benefits
• Dual-phase delivery system allows ingredients to work on multiple levels

Cons:

• Expensive
• Contains fragrance

How it works

Clarins’ Double Serum is made with 21 different plant extracts that work together to firm skin, soften wrinkles, and deliver healthy radiance—all of which tend to be common concerns for those with aging complexions.

According to licensed esthetician Erica Choi, “Internal factors like hormonal changes and genetics combined with external factors like sun damage, dehydration, poor diet, environmental pollution, stress, lack of sleep, inadequate skincare, and certain medical conditions or medications can lead to a dull and lackluster complexion.”

To combat these effects, you need a formula that addresses them at multiple levels, and that’s where Clarins Double Serum comes in. “Emollients, humectants, and occlusives increase skin hydration and firmness,” says Jessie Cheung, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Chicago. She explains that the formula contains both water and oil-soluble ingredients, and this two-phase delivery system mimics the skin’s dual nature to effectively penetrate the skin barrier. “The skin barrier is meant to keep out potential irritants, so this unique formulation lets both water-soluble and oil-soluble plant-derived actives through,” she says.

The formula derives its power from its botanical ingredients, which work to hydrate the skin and make it more resilient. “Turmeric, goji berry, beautyberry, cocoa, marsh samphire, and oat are anti-inflammatory and soothing,” says Dr. Cheung. “Seed oils provide hydration and calming effects. Myrothamnus, also known as the resurrection flower, is anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and boosts skin hydration.”

These effects can be witnessed both immediately and over time. According to Choi, the hydrating essences instantly make the skin look plumper and more radiant, while “turmeric contains curcumin, a potent antioxidant that can help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. This reduces oxidative stress and addresses signs of skin aging.” She adds that it’s essential to minimize inflammation to prevent premature aging.

What happened when I tried it

Double Serum’s bottle is ingeniously designed with a pump that precisely dispenses a small or heftier dose for your skin needs—but know that you only really need a few drops.

The concentrated formula can be layered with other products, so because my skin tends to be dry, I use the Double Serum as a booster for my regular moisturizer to increase hydration while also offering firming and smoothing benefits. The serum’s a little perfumey, but the scent dissipates quickly, and wasn’t a bother for me personally.

The first time I tried the product, I immediately noticed that my pores appeared smaller and my skin, overall, felt softer and looked brighter. After several days of use, my fine lines looked smoother, my skin appeared firmer, and there was a nice healthy glow—which made me feel like the product was worth its $134 price tag. Since only the tiniest amount is needed, I expect the bottle to last a long time.

While I’m thrilled about the anti-aging benefits the Clarins Double Serum offers to my mature skin, I’ve seen positive reviews from women of all ages who love the radiance, moisture, and even tone it delivers—some have even said it gives them a perfected look without makeup. If you, too, are looking for a multifunctional serum that fits seamlessly into your routine, this one is a worthy investment.