Earlier this spring, I was invited to Bloomingdales to preview all-things beautiful and fresh for skin with my friends at Clarins. The French cosmetics brand was founded in 1954 by Jacques Courtin-Clarins who opened his first beauty spa on rue Tronchet in Paris. I had heard about the brand’s skincare superhero, Christopher Truffa, and was excited to meet him and learn more.

Truffa, who joined Clarins as a brand ambassador in 2009, has been trotting the globe for years rearing beauty consultants, clients and connoisseurs alike. As a bonafied public speaker, he promotes the benefits of sunscreen, serums and stuff that just makes your skin look and feel like it’s straight out of Vogue. Upon meeting Truffa, I was immediately drawn to him. His charm and wit were that of a best male friend who you chat with for hours on end.

But it was Truffa’s passion for his profession that really struck me. I’ve written about finding and pursuing one’s true passion in life so many times on this blog. And maybe it’s because (at this point in my life) I’m only following my true calling on a part-time basis. Therefore, I embrace those who are doing what they love to do each and every day. But I digress. Here’s a look at some of the treasures I received from the team at Clarins.

Insta Light Radiance Boosting Complexion Base ($37.00)
This was my first time using a liquid highlighter and it certainly won’t be my last. Pushing my powder formula aside, I applied “Champagne 02” under my foundation on many a recent nights out with the girls. The formula works wonders at reducing redness and shine. Use it as an all-over primer (under your foundation) or as a spot treatment to target areas like your brow and upper cheekbones.

Opalescence Face and Blush Powder ($40.00)
So I have been completely obsessed with the Opalescence Face and Blush Powder since we first met. Not only is the design so pretty that you do not want to disturb, but the powder is a perfect mid-afternoon refresh for skin. You know that dreaded “office” feeling you get on your skin come two o’clock?! Well, this will help. The product works as a trifecta of sorts — an all-over face powder (apply the matte pink/beige on oily areas), contour powder (the matte tan will define cheekbones) and blush (the matte coral looks killer on cheeks).

Radiance-Plus Golden Glow Booster ($30.00)
For those of us who don’t necessarily need a self-tanner or who don’t want to bask for hours in the sun (but still want a sun-kissed glow), there’s Radiance-Plus Golden Glow Booster. I mean, even I could use a glow once in awhile…especially in the winter and spring…early summer too. I mixed one drop of Radiance-Plus with my night cream and applied it to my face and neck before bed. In the morning, my complexion was smooth and free from streaks. You can use up to three drops per application. And it won’t stain your pillows!

Sunscreen Care Oil Spray SPF 30 ($35.00)
And if you’re heading to the beach, boat or even backyard this season, do not forget your sunscreen. Clarins has newly launched Sunscreen Care Oil Spray with SPF 30 – a lightweight, oil-free spray designed especially for skin and hair that protects from the drying effects of sun, salt and chlorine. My bottle is tucked away in my beach bag and has already seen many rays of sun this season. Don’t forget, summer officially begins this weekend on June 21.