There’s A New Clarins Double Serum – And It’s Even Better For My Skin Than The Original

Since I became a beauty journalist eight years ago, I have developed an understanding of what beauty editors really use. Yes, it’s our job to test everything we can and, while we may wax lyrical about several products at any one time (what can I say? We’re a passionate bunch) there are only a handful we’ll repurchase ourselves time and time again. The Clarins Double Serum, is one such buy. Touted as one of the best-lovedserums on the market, journalists have been lending their seal of approval to the stuff for years. I first fell in love with it in 2023 when a fellow journalist told me how much of a difference it had made to her skin.

‘Honestly,’ she said in hushed tones over the table at a press dinner, ‘it’s minimised my wrinkles and given me that plumpness back.’  I've been using it since, and it's one of the serums that I consistently come back to.

When I caught wind that Clarins was releasing a new lighter version I was intrigued. I have oily, combination skin prone to sensitivity, and this one, it would seem, has been made with my exact skin type in mind. To be clear, I get on really well with the OG, but some reviewers prone to sensitivity complain that it doesn't sink into their skin quite as quickly as they'd like.

What does the new Clarins Double Serum Light Texture do?

Devotees will be thrilled to know it still does everything the original does. The serum works by flooding skin with active ingredients like antioxidant-rich turmeric and banana tree extract - it's the 'hard worker' in your skincare routine. The key difference between this new serum and the original is the texture. The formula absorbs much more quickly into the skin, 'leaving a bare skin finish with no residual film,' according to the brand.

Shop: Clarins Double Serum Light Texture

How to use Clarins Double Serum Light

You can apply the Clarins Double Serum Light exactly like the original. Firstly, warm a small amount in your hands before pressing into the the face and neck gently. You can then continue with gentle massaging motions - light tapping and circular movements work well to help absorption. You can then follow with the rest of your skincare and make-up as normal.

Our verdict

Rachael Martin, beauty editor:

'I didn’t think I could be swayed from the original Double Serum, but this one may have just pipped it to the post. While I didn’t have any complaints regarding the texture of the original, this new, lighter iteration just makes more sense for my skin type. It feels lighter, silkier and softer - my skin just drinks it up. I'm a naturally reactive girl - apply a new product and my complexion will let everyone know - but never with Clarins products. As with the original, it sits beautifully under make-up if you do want to wear it during the day, but I typically like to apply it at night. While it’s an investment at £90 you’ll see results quickly- often within days. That said, don’t expect it to change your complexion overnight. With this one, consistent use is key. My skin is softer, smoother and more radiant two months in. Maybe even less reactive too - but I've been using the original for over two years now, and the light for three months. While I'll continue to test other serums - and probably appreciate one or two new launches along the way - it's Double Serum I'll come back to. I plan to use the OG in the winter months and the light version as the weather warms up.'

Final thoughts

'Like many beauty journalists I'm well acquainted with Clarins Double Serum. This new, lighter version is ideal for those who feel the original might be too much for them - music to the ears of sensitive, oily or combination skin types. It's lighter, yes, but with all the same goodness. Would recommend.'

Rachael Martin is Grazia’s beauty editor where she covers all things beauty, health and wellness.