For lovers of the "dewy" look.

I "discovered" Clarins Beauty Flash Balm a few years ago. It has become one of the very few products I cannot do without, and for which I do not know of a similar product made by any other cosmetics line.

Clarins Beauty Flash Balm is recommended for two types of uses: as an additional layer of moisture underneath makeup (foundation), or as an intensive moisturizing facial. I use it for the former reason, on a daily basis, underneath my foundation. Its texture is a cross between a liquid moisturizer and a heavy cream moisturizer.

I am 38 years old, and over the years, my skin has started to look a bit dull and dry. But even in my 20's, I always desired an "ultra-dewy" look to my face; I never liked the matte look. Have you ever noticed that after applying a layer of foundation, blush and powder, your skin loses its natural glow? Sure, makeup can be good for covering up blemishes, or adding color to your face, but often times you must sacrifice your skin's own natural glow.

However, by applying a layer of Flash Balm underneath your foundation, it greatly diminishes this "problem". After washing my face and applying moisturizer, I put a few dots of the Flash Balm on my face, concentrating more on the drier spots. I wet my hands a bit, and lightly spread the Flash Balm over my face, or sometimes I just add foundation to my face, and then rub the two products in at the same time, using a wet sea sponge. The Flash Balm has this amazing capability of not sinking into your skin, or being absorbed, the way most moisturizers do. Rather, it sort of "sits" on top of your skin.

Without the Flash Balm, makeup on my face can make my skin look dull. But with the Flash Balm, my skin always has more of a glow. If you have oily skin, and are concerned that another layer of "oil" is the last thing your skin needs, this product may not be for you. However, maybe you'll just want to save this product for special occasions when you want your skin/makeup to look extra good. The Flash Balm also has this amazing ability to make your foundation glide on much more smoothly. (See my separate review on How to Apply Foundation - http://www.epinions.com/content_832479364.)

Clarins Beauty Flash Balm is a one-of-a-kind item that I know I'll never stop using, unlike so many other beauty items that I've tried.