Terracotta Mineral © Patrick Paufert

uerlain has unveiled Terracotta 2009, a new summer collection that enhances tanned skin, celebrating the 25th anniversary of the mythic powder.

Terracotta Mineral is a groundbreaking bronzing powder that graces the skin with tints of gold, copper and amber. Inspired by the ancestral beauty secret of mineral makeup, it applies the unifying properties of talc, kaolin and iron oxides for a radiant matte finish.

The elegant lacquer case with a screen makes the powder as chic as it is practical. To apply the powder, the mini Kabuki brush is inspired by the makeup applied by traditional Japanese Kabuki actors. The goat hair brush has an elegant lacquered wood handle.

For escapades to a faraway paradise, Eau sous le Vent moisturizing mist and Huile du Voyageur nourishing dry oil contain a natural extract from the bark of the carob tree, grown for centuries in Mediterranean regions. Both these creations use Tan Booster technology to intensify natural tanning.

Baume au Coeur © Patrick Paufert

Soothing and hydrating Eau sous le Vent amplifies the tan, while the nourishing dry oil of Huile du Voyageur perfumes the skin with the delicately iridescent scent of the Tiare flower.

With their luxuriant wood tops, the gorgeous bottles resonate with the Guerlain heritage, reprising the mythic décor of the Coconut Oil Soap created in 1840. 

For the lips, Baume au Cœur lip balm combines the creamy texture of a balm and the high shine of a gloss.

Soothing and nourishing, it blends three natural ingredients: wild mango butter, marula oil - used in Africa to nourish the fragile skin of babies - and luffa oil to restore lipidic balance.

Nestled in a round case, the balm comes in a range of delicate summer tones: pale rose, brown rosé and luscious chocolate.

A true ode to sensuality, the Terracotta 2009 collection from Guerlain is an enticing invitation to summer travel.

(Published on April 23, 2009)