I don’t know about where you guys are, but here in NYC, it got really cold, really fast. My skin was not prepared for the onslaught of wind and below-freezing temperatures, and it's wreaking havoc on my complexion. I’ve spent the past few weeks trying to remedy the damage — that is, attempting to soothe the red-tinged bags under my eyes (courtesy of dehydrating apartment heat) and irritated splotches on my cheeks. Even my already-aggressive breakouts are brighter and more inflamed, since they’re highlighted against my fair, sun-deprived skin. And you know what that means: concealer alone just isn't gonna cut it. So when I heard that YSL launched a new iteration of its cult favorite Touche Éclat in three different shades designed to neutralize redness and color correct, I jumped at the chance to try it.
It works by combating off-colored areas with their complementary, opposite shade. (For example, purple cancels out yellow.) Since I was looking for something to make my face resemble less of a dappled tomato, I used the Green shade and hoped for the best. After starting my day with my usual skin-care routine — face wash, acne treatment, and lots of moisturizer — I swiped the pen across my finger, warming it up and dabbing the (super-pigmented) formula on a pimple by my mouth. At first glance, I thought, No, it’s too green. There’s no way this is going to get better. But after a thin layer of my go-to concealer, the angry, raised bump magically vanished from my face. I tried it again on my cheeks and undereyes, only to be transformed into a completely normal human being with soft, even skin. You would never know that I was living through an NYC winter.
Then, I tried the Violet pen, which corrects yellow, dull skin for a healthy glow. After dabbing it on the appropriate area, it was easy to see where I needed to add a layer of my normal base makeup. (I recommend using at least a light concealer, since the correcting pigments are really powerful; but depending on your issues and method of application, you may not want or need it.) I can't vouch for the Bisque shade (it tackles dark circles and spots while illuminating), but in short, I’m sold. These pens are a worthwhile addition to my otherwise-reliable routine. Plus, it means I’m covered the next time I get a cold or have to pull an all-nighter.
YSL Touche Éclat Neutralizers, $38 each, available at Sephora.
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