We Tried La Prairie’s Skin Caviar Hydro Emulsion – Here’s The Verdict

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In our new beauty series, we put the most exciting product launches to the test. Do they really do what they say on the tin?

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Can the Skin Caviar Hydro Emulsion by La Prairie really firm, hydrate and smooth – or is it all just a fishy tale? Juliet Herd puts it to the test in this instalment of the C&TH Beauty Lab series.

C&TH Beauty Lab: We Try La Prairie’s Skin Caviar Hydro Emulsion

About The Product

This La Prairie creation is a lightweight fluid moisturiser, powered by an exclusive combination of proprietary caviar ingredients, including the new cutting-edge Caviar Hydroessence, containing the water-soluble, protein-rich elements of caviar that target the epidermal structure. For use on clean skin post-serum application – both morning and night. Non-comedogenic, it is suitable for all skin types.

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The Swiss skincare grand dame has long harnessed the restorative properties of caviar (in extract form rather than the actual fish eggs themselves) – in its science-led products. This potent triple-action potion delivers intense hydration and boosts firmness, while helping to fade fine lines and even visible wrinkles.

It works by targeting different dimensions of the epidermal structure using three key ingredients: Exclusive Cellular ComplexTM , La Prairie’s secret anti-ageing weapon developed over four decades, which energises and boosts the skin’s natural repair processes; caviar micro-nutrients, which stimulate essential energy pathways to support the skin’s metabolism at its source, and Caviar Hydroessence, which strengthens the mechanical resistance of the skin barrier.

The Science Bit

A clinical study of 51 panellists showed a 70 percent increase in instant and enduring hydration after 15 minutes and eight weeks of use. The same trial also recorded a measured reduction in the count, depth and volume of wrinkles and a 38 percent increase in skin firmness after eight weeks of use.

The Test Drive

I applied it daily in conjunction with La Prairie’s newly enhanced, best-selling Skin Caviar Liquid Lift serum and Skin Caviar Luxe Eye Cream, of which Barbie actor Margot Robbie is an avowed fan. With its silky smooth, ultra-lightweight texture, just two pumps of the emulsion (it comes in a recyclable glass dispenser in La Prairie’s signature cobalt blue) were enough to provide full coverage. By far the lightest moisturiser I’ve used, it glided on effortlessly and was greedily absorbed by my parched skin, leaving my face feeling like it had gulped down a thirst-quenching, nutritious glass of milk. A scent of crispy green leaves underlined by delicate florals and white musk had me swooning.

What Were The Results?

After eight weeks of diligent application, my skin felt smoother, plumper and, dare I say it, firmer. I can’t swear to a noticeable fading of pesky fine lines around my eyes or a reduction in my wrinkle count but if the unsolicited compliments of a table-full of beauty editors is anything to go by, then the emulsion is doing the trick.

The Verdict: La Prairie Skin Caviar Hydro Emulsion

As a lightweight, long-lasting moisturiser that effectively drenches the skin, this is a gamechanger. Ideal for use during the summer months or in more humid climes, it also sits wonderfully well under SPF and makeup, ensuring a flawless, glowing complexion. Despite the hefty price tag, it offers value for money on a cost per use basis as, at this rate, my skin can expect to enjoy a hefty hydration boost for at least another four months.