Six years ago, Hermès Beauty came into fruition. A first for the nearly 200 year-old brand, the label’s debut Rouge Hermès collection marked its newfound expansion into the make-up space—having only dipped their toes into the fragrance and bathcare categories previously. The Internet was, naturally, abuzz with what this diversification would come to signify. A complete overhaul that brings forth a new age for the maison, maybe? Or perhaps simply an extension of the time-honoured Hermès identity? Both answers are applicable, it seems.
Since their launch, Hermès Beauty has showcased an undying commitment to their codes of impeccable artistry and skill, dropping product after product that exemplifies ingenious design as well as usability. This comes together with a daringness to explore as seen with the comprehensive selection of hues and textures available. It is Hermès as we’ve always known, but with a hint of intrigue. Expected but also surprising in equal measure, as observed with the brand’s latest release: the Hermès Plein Air Luminous Matte Skincare Foundation.
“This new collection for the complexion is essential,” elucidates Gregoris Pyrpylis, creative director and make-up tour de force behind Hermès Beauty. “It is a simple offering designed to be used every day, daytime and evening.” The messaging behind this is clear: a fuss-free offering that you find yourself reaching for constantly, no matter the occasion. The real question lies in how the maison aims to do so.
Skin drink
The first step is to ensure the product is actually good for the skin. Much like the Hermès Plein Air Complexion Balm, the Hermès Plein Air Luminous Matte Skincare Foundation is also a skincare make-up hybrid that hydrates and shields the visage from oxidative damage. “This collection is designed for a broad spectrum of skin tones. Not only do the shades adapt to each complexion, they also enhance and care for it,” claims Pyrpylis. An amalgamation of niacinamide, white mulberry extract as well as pure hyaluronic acid is what does the trick for this newest release, ensuring that skin stays in the pink of health despite extensive wear.
Where it differs from the Hermès Plein Air Complexion Balm is in its coverage. While the former is designed to grant your countenance a healthy sheen and glow, the latter actually hides and smooths out imperfections, resisting heat as well as humidity to create the impression of a flawless countenance. Boasting a 16-hour long-lasting hold, it stays on without settling into fine lines and creases thanks to its highly-buildable and light-as-air finish; a delightful confection that makes it suitable across a wide variety of complexion types.
You won’t be hard-pressed to find your ideal shade either. Available in a staggering thirty-four hues, the Hermès Plein Air Luminous Matte Skincare Foundation has been categorised into five different colour intensities: light, light-medium, medium, medium-deep and deep. Each colour intensity also offers three undertones of cool, neutral and warm to allow for “a precise match and even-toned radiance,” as stated in the maison’s product press release.
All-rounder
In line with Hermès’s philosophy of developing objects both useful and elegant, there is nothing too finicky about the Hermès Plein Air Luminous Matte Skincare Foundation. Finger application works, but for those seeking a more even finish, use it in tandem with the brand’s Le Perfecteur Brush and/or the Hermès Plein Air Perfecting Primer. While the primer helps further prolong make-up wear as well as bolster skin radiance, the brush allows for a more exacting and seamless finish, easily reaching the smaller crevices of your face with little to no effort.
As it is, there is no need for the above unless you’re looking to enhance your experience—and we suppose that’s the magic about the Hermès Plein Air Luminous Matte Skincare Foundation; a product that is devastatingly effective in its simplicity. It doesn’t get any more Hermès than this.
The Hermès Plein Air Luminous Matte Skincare Foundation retails at $205 and is available online and at Hermès boutiques.
