Vanilla nice

The ingredient isn’t just great in sweet treats; it packs an anti-ageing punch when used in skincare. By Jaclyn Gunasilan.

Photos of Flowers Corbis

You’re more likely to spot vanilla in a cupcake recipe than in the ingredient list of a skincare product. That is, unless the skincare product is from Chanel. Of all the anti-ageing ingredients out there, the luxury brand chose vanilla planifolia, a type of Madagascan vanilla, to power its most premium skincare range, Sublimage.

Here’s why: According to Chanel researchers, vanilla planifolia, when used in skincare, boasts potent regenerative and reparative properties. That’s why the Sublimage range is formulated with Enriched Planifolia Polyfractioned Active (PFA), an active ingredient made from vanilla planifolia that has been broken down into tiny particles for better absorption into the skin. And what results can you expect? A smoother and firmer complexion that is also more hydrated and radiant.

The latest addition to this anti-ageing range is L’Extrait. Billed by the brand as “an intensive recovery treatment”, it is the range’s first oil-based product; I’d describe the hybrid texture as a cross between a gel and an oil. It sinks into skin quickly and leaves a veil of moisture that makes it feel plump.

Aside from Enriched Planifolia PFA, the luxurious product is fortified with vanilla planifolia flower-infused oil and stem cells from the plant’s leaves. The flowers help to protect the skin from external stresses, while the leaf stem cells supposedly infuse skin with proteins and vitamins, keeping it supple.

Since L’Extrait has a luxurious texture, a single drop is all you need. I use it two to three times a week at night (whenever my complexion looks dull and tired), and my skin looks lit from within and feels silky-smooth the next morning. If your skin is particularly thirsty, go ahead and use it twice daily, or mix it with your moisturiser to give your skin a pampering treat.