Can't Afford a Birkin? Try Hermès' $45 Blotting Papers Instead
Today in tiny luxuries: Hermès' latest beauty collection, Plein Air, a range of complexion products that includes logo-embossed blotting papers priced at $45.
Yes, I tried them. Yes, they work. Or rather, they do exactly what I'd ask from any effective blotting paper: soak up mid-day oiliness without compromising my foundation and concealer.
The real draw here is the Hermès orange dispenser that, if you're feeling flex-y, is very fun to pull out of your bag and show to friends. (Come winter, these would make for great stocking stuffers.)
The blotting papers are definitely the gag of the collection — but don't let that keep you from appreciating Hermès' Complexion Balm ($85), essentially a tinted moisturizer with SPF.
I'll admit, I was dubious about this one — but after taking it for a spin, I was impressed. The lightweight balm is formulated with titanium dioxide, a mineral sunscreen that's often difficult to blend into skin, leaves a white cast, and has a sticky finish. Hermès' formula is super blend-able and moisturizing with a soft matte finish (no weird residue left behind).
As you'd expect from a tinted moisturizer, the balm provides light coverage: it calms redness and evens out dark spots while letting the skin breathe. I paired it with concealer for a business-casual look.
Lastly, we've got Hermès' Radiant Glow ($90), a powder highlighter that's shimmery without being glittery. Personally, I think it works best on the eyes, dabbed at the inner corner and inner lid for a face-brightening effect.
Takeaways? Final thoughts? Theses?
Yes, the collection is expensive. Do you need to spend $85 on a tinted moisturizer with SPF 30? Probably not. But it's Hermès, and the brand's prestige is included in the price tag.
I'll leave it at this: I don't get a fuzzy feeling after tearing open a packet of $4 blotting papers, but there is something undeniably joyful about opening up a small luxury like Hermès makeup.
