This popular brightening moisturizer is the real deal: Here’s why

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Meet the Caudalie skincare due that transformed one writer's skin. (Image via Sephora)
Meet the Caudalie skincare duo that transformed one writer's skin. (Image via Sephora)

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French skincare brand Caudalie is known for harnessing the power of grapes to provide long-lasting benefits to the skin, and the celeb-approved skincare brand hasn’t slowed down over the course of the last 25 years.

Founded by Mathilde Thomas and her husband Bertrand in 1995, it was the first brand to use grape seed extract in skincare. Since starting out with three products and a French wellness spa, Caudalie have since expanded their selection of natural skincare products to include everything from beauty elixirs to anti-aging moisturizers.

One of their newest products to arrive on the market is the Vinoperfect Instant Brightening Moisturizer, a rich face cream billed to prevent the appearance of dark spots and even out the skin. It’s a daily moisturizer infused with Viniferine — an ingredient sourced from grapevine sap extract that’s said to be six times more powerful than vitamin C, and I put it to the test to see how it truly holds up.

Vinoperfect Brightening Moisturizer. Image via Caudalie
Vinoperfect Brightening Moisturizer. Image via Caudalie

SHOP IT: Sephora, $79

First impressions

I love the velvety gel texture of this moisturizer that acts like a soft hug on the skin. There’s no greasy residue, even hours after the first application, which is something I prefer in skincare products.

I have always adored the plant-based fragrance in the Caudalie line, and this moisturizer is no different. It combines notes of bergamot, mandarin, lemon tree leaf, cucumber and fresh mint.

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It also includes niacinamide and white peony extract to brighten the skin, olive-derived squalane and hyaluronic acid to hydrate, and natural pearlizers to give an instant glow.

If you’re a fan of the cult favourite Vinoperfect Radiance Serum, you’re most likely going to love this jar too. I’ve been using this duo in the mornings as it’s not too heavy for all-day wear, and instead opting for a thicker cream at night for extra hydration.

Vinoperfect Radiance Serum. Image via Caudalie
Vinoperfect Radiance Serum. Image via Caudalie

SHOP IT: Sephora, $79

The verdict

After weeks of daily application, I’ve found that consistent use of the Vinoperfect Instant Brightening Moisturizer, combined with the Vinoperfect Radiance serum works to visibly reduce any dark spots and signs of pigmentation. My skin looked and felt more clear after just two weeks of regular use.

As with all Caudalie products, the moisturizer is free of parabens, phenoxyethanol, phthalates, mineral oils and animal-derived ingredients, making it a great choice if you’re cautious about the ingredients that you put on your skin. It’s also dermatologically tested and suitable for sensitive skin, making this two-step skincare routine a great choice for a wide range of skin concerns.

A potential downside of this product is that for those who are sensitive to fragrances, you may want to skip over these scented products. Also, for those who suffer from extremely dry or dehydrated skin, this lightweight moisturizer might not cut it, and you might want to opt for a heavier formulation during the colder months.

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