I love pink, I love all things French, and I love skincare products that promise to soothe the skin. So when Darphin kindly sent me 2 products from their redness relief Intral line, I was ecstatic. I’ve heard a lot about this line from Taiwanese beauty bloggers, all great things of course, so I couldn’t wait to see what the hype was about. After a month of testing out their products, I can see why everyone raves about this line.
Learn more about Darphin
Founded by Pierre Darphin in1958, this Parisian skincare brand believes that beauty and skincare should be a joyful, uplifting experience. From selecting the finest botanical ingredients to using innovative technologies and professional expertise, every step of their formulation process is meticulous and deliberate in order to deliver the best possible experience and results for the users.
Learn more about Darphin’s Intral Line
Created for skin prone to sensitivity and irritation, this line helps reduce the appearance of redness and repairs + strengthens the skin’s natural barrier.
Darphin Intral Redness Relief Soothing Serum
The best seller in the Intral line, this serum is as beautiful to look at as it is to use. It has a lightweight water-like texture with a slight slip, very similar to the Biotherm Life Plankton Essence, and a faint floral scent. It also contains wonderful soothing and hydrating ingredients like:
- chamomile extract – Has skin soothing, healing, and anti-oxidant properties.
- peony root extract – Has skin brightening properties (source) and potentially anti-oxidant properties as well (source).
- panthenol – A humectant that helps attract and retain moisture on the skin. Also has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties when used over a period of time.
- crataegus monogina flower extract (common hawthorn) – An antioxidant that protects the skin from UVA damage and prevents inflammation caused by UV radiation (source).
- alteromonas ferment extract – Extracted from deep sea algae, it has skin soothing properties and can minimize irritations caused by UV and environmental aggressions (source).
- saccharomyces lysate (yeast) extract – A great source of beta-glucan (an antioxidant), which helps hydrate and soften the skin.
- polygonum cuspidatum extract – An excellent source of resveratrol (source), it also promotes wound healing (source) and may have skin-brightening properties (source).
- glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) – Exists naturally on our skin and helps hydrate it by binding to moisture (source). Hyaluronic acid is an example of a GAG.
What’s really great about all these ingredients is that they’re all listed at the top half of the INCI, while less desirable things like preservatives (no parabens though), fragrances, and colorings are listed at the bottom. The inclusion of fragrances and colors aren’t ideal, especially since this is supposed to be for sensitive skin. However, I haven’t experienced any irritations while using this, even when my skin was slightly inflamed.
What I did experience was reduced redness and stronger skin with the continuous use of this serum. My skin no longer got irritated as easily and I found that I didn’t even need to layer on a hydrating toner or serum as this was enough for my combination skin. Unfortunately I didn’t notice any immediate comfort or relief, but for me long term results are more important than temporary ones. This is the only serum I use in the mornings (I’m still using my Skin Actives Firming Collagen Serum at night), and I definitely noticed an improvement in my skin’s resilience since adding this to my routine.
- In summary
- A luxurious lightweight serum with excellent ingredients that will reduce redness and strengthen your skin in the long run.
- Full ingredients
- water, butylene glycol, glycerin, chamomilla recutita (matricaria) flower extract, paeonia suffruticosa (peony) root extract, alteromonas ferment extract, crataegus monogina flower extract, panthenol, glycosaminoglycans, polygonum cuspidatum root extract, saccharomyces lysate extract, yeast extract\faex\extrait de levure, peg-40 hydrogenated castor oil, cellulose gum, glycereth-26, fragrance (parfum), citric acid, xanthan gum, disodium edta, chlorphenesin, sodium benzoate, phenoxyethanol, red 4 (ci 14700), ext. violet 2 (ci 60730), yellow 5 (ci 19140), red 33 (ci 17200), blue 1 (ci 42090)
- Available at
- Dermstore, Anthropologie, Darphin for $88; StrawberryNet for $75; Escentual for $48.24
Darphin Intral Soothing Cream
I’ll be honest and admit that I didn’t like this cream at first, especially since I was already such a fan of the La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5. But after using it several nights in a row, I’ve noticed that my skin looks brighter in the mornings. It’s also not as oily as the Cicaplast Baume and more hydrating (the zinc in the cicaplast baume can actually be drying).
Like the Intral Redness Relief Serum, this cream also contains the same soothing extracts and some additional hydrating ingredients:
- shea butter – One of my favorite emollients due to its nourishing yet lightweight feel, it absorbs into my skin instantly without leaving a greasy finish. Plus it has anti-inflammatory properties (source)!
- rosewater – Has hydrating, anti-inflammatory, and skin soothing properties (source)
- hyaluronic acid – One of the best humectants out there, need I say more?
- sodium pca – Another humectant that helps bind moisture to our skin, it can also protect our skin by reducing inflammation (source).
- vitamin e – One of the best antioxidants and anti-aging ingredients for your skin.
I appreciate that there aren’t that many filler ingredients, and while it does contain a bit of fragrance, it’s still alcohol, color, and paraben-free. I’ve used this without any issues when my skin was irritated, and while the relief was not immediate, using this consistently at night has helped keep my skin hydrated and less prone to redness. Also I love how quickly this absorbs and how it leaves a natural, shine-free finish despite it still being really nourishing. I’m able to apply a thick layer on my cheeks and it doesn’t feel heavy at all.
- In summary
- A medium-weight moisturizer with wonderful ingredients that hydrate without being oily, and leaves skin healthier and stronger in the long run.
- Full ingredients
- water, hydrogenated polydecene, shea butter, propylene glycol, glyceryl stearate, peg-100 stearate, dimethicone, cetyl alcohol, octyldodecyl stearoyl stearate, propanediol, tridecyl stearate, butylene glycol, tridecyl trimellitate, chamomilla recutita (matricaria) flower extract, paeonia suffruticosa (peony) root extract, alteromonas ferment extract, crataegus monogina flower extract, panthenol, vanilla planifolia fruit extract, rosa damascena (rose) flower water, dipentaerythrityl hexacaprylate/hexacaprate, bisabolol, stearic acid, tocopheryl acetate, sorbitol, sodium hyaluronate, palmitic acid, sodium pca, sodium polyacrylate, caprylyl glycol, acrylates/c10-30 alkyl acrylate crosspolymer, 1,2-hexanediol, xanthan gum, sodium hydroxide, citronellol, geraniol, tetrasodium edta
- Available at
- Dermstore, Blue Mercury, Darphin for $72; StrawberryNet for $53; Escentual for $39.47
Overall thoughts on Darphin’s Intral Line
These are not overnight wonders, at least not for me. But I’ve found that with consistent use of both products my skin has become less sensitive and prone to irritation. I’ve also found myself downsizing my skincare routine since incorporating these 2 products because they’ve pretty much got it all covered: hydration, calming, antioxidants, and even brightening. Plus I’m loving the spa like experience these products offer: from the elegant textures to the subtle floral scents, just pair them with the Darphin’s application techniques and you can treat yourself to a relaxing facial daily!
But goodness the price. If you’re thinking about trying the Darphin Intral Soothing Serum or Soothing Cream, I’d highly recommend purchasing them when you travel to Europe where they’re the cheapest. Or if you don’t mind international shipping, shop at one of the European or global retailers where you still get a significant discount compared to US retailers.
Read more: 11 money saving tips when shopping online
Darphin Intral Soothing Serum + Cream
- Packaging8.5/10
- Ingredients9/10
- Texture/Application9.5/10
- Performance8.5/10
- Price6.5/10
As promised, both products really do deliver spa-like experiences and noticeable results with continued use, and both products are now a staple in my routine. However due to the high price I would be hesitant to recommend them to students or those who are just starting to build their skincare routine.
But if you're familiar with your skin's needs and want products that strengthens it in the long run, I think the Darphin Intral line is worth checking out. Or if you're comfortable spending a bit extra to pamper your skin with a spa-like experience, you'll definitely enjoy this line as well.
After this initial experience with Darphin, I’m definitely interested in trying out more of their products, particularly their Intral line since I’ve been getting great long-term results. Hope you enjoyed this review and let me know if you’ve ever tried anything from the Darphin range! Have a great rest of the week
My skin is not prone to redness and irritation, but I think the ingredient list is pretty impressive. Darphin is one of the brands I have seen numerous times (I spend a lot of time in France), but never really gave a second glance.
Linda, Libra, Loca: Beauty, Baby and Backpacking
Thanks for reading Anne! I was surprised by the ingredient list as well, especially since many high end products charge a lot for the brand and then you see all the actives at the bottom of the INCI :/ Do give it a second glance the next time you’re in France :)
I am aware of this brand and yes, I am well aware of the price range too which unfortunately is way above what I am comfortable to spend on. The ingredient list is certainly impressive but I think I can get other skincare with equally as impressive or close for a more budget friendly price range. Great review, Jenny! xx
Thanks for reading Shireen! Darphin is definitely on the higher end of the price range, and may be the most expensive products I own to date D: I think the LRP Cicaplast Baume is sort of comparable, just not as elegant in texture. Are there any other products with similar results that you’d recommend?
Honestly I can’t think of any on top of my head but my skin is 95% of the time good so I still don’t feel the need to spend big $$$ to maintain it, yet. Ask me again when I reach 40 in two years time…I might Darphin the heck out of my face. ????
I’m eager to try out the serum! The packaging already draws me in and it seems to be targeting what my skin needs lately. Should head out and see if they’re available in local stores! :D
yanrula x
Let’s connect: Bloglovin’
I hope you’ll be able to find it locally, would love to hear your thoughts if you do try it! :D
I’ve always wanted to try some Darphin skincare. Thanks for the review, I will have to check these out when I visit my nearest counter! :) x
Thank you for reading Caryl! Would love to hear your thoughts on it if you do try it!
Somehow I always hear french label skin cares popping around my family and relatives but I have actually no clue about them. I guess it’s time for me to pop by a pharmacy and check out Darphin. Their specifications sounds just like what I need :)
The more I use French brands the more I like them, but omg they’re marked up so high here in the US! I regret not buying Darphin’s stuff while in Paris T_T But yes, definitely check them out when you get the chance!
Ooooo that serum sounds soooo lovely. And it’s so pretty too! Odd that it’s so much cheaper on the Escentuals site!
I do love how pretty the bottle looks on my vanity, and the color is quite therapeutic! :P I’ve found that a lot of European brands are cheaper if you buy them from European retailers, especially since most of them offer free international shipping!
My skin was so irritated about two years ago, why didn’t I discover these then?! It’s calmed down a lot since, and I’m happy with my routine, but they sound good for people for want something that is multi purpose x
Velvet Blush
Multipurpose is a great way to describe these products, especially since traditional brightening/anti-aging products might not work for those with sensitive skin! Thanks for reading! :)
Great review! I haven;t heard of this brand before but they sound really interesting. I like that essence, sounds like it will suit me :)
xx Alyssa // STYLE VANITY
Thanks so much Alyssa! I feel like this is a serum that all skin types can benefit from, who doesn’t want stronger healthier skin? :P
I’ve avoided this range because of the price – I do know you can get these for a fraction of the price at Paris pharmacies! I’m kind of curious though – this line really piqued my interest! Do you know of any dupes that might come close to some of the ingredient/formula?
Ugh, it’s crazy how drastically different the prices are here compared to France! From comparing ingredients I’ve found that HydroPeptide Soothing Serum, NARUKO Platinum Bright Essence Repairing Complex, derma e Sensitive Skin Redness Reducing Serum, and Perricone MD Advanced Renewal Infusion Serum share some similarities to the Darphin Intral Serum, but I’ve never used any of them so I’m not sure about their effectiveness. In terms of effectiveness the Klairs Midnight Blue Calming Cream is similar to the Darphin Soothing Cream, except it’s not as moisturizing and you can only use a little bit at a time.
Such a great, detailed review! I honestly want both of these now, especially the cream! Thanks for sharing x
Naya // http://www.partyparrotblog.com
Thanks so much Naya! The cream really is lovely, and bonus points for the millennial pink packaging!
French brands are the best when it comes to skincare. I haven`t heard of this brand before, but it sounds fantastic.
http://www.beautynerd.co.uk
Thanks for reading Georgiana! I agree, I’ve yet to be disappointed with any of the French brands I’ve tried!
Such a great review and stunning photos, Jenny! I am a big fan of Darphin and have yet to try something from them that my skin didn’t like. I have not yet tried their Intral range, but I would love to. The ingredient list sounds so nice. I also have to agree with you, consistent use of products is often key to seeing amazing results.
~ Cat L.
http://www.CatsDailyLiving.com
Instagram @DailyCatL
http://www.CatsDailyLiving.com
Aww thank you for the sweet comment Cat! I remember seeing the Darphin HydraSkin range in your photos and they look amazing too! It’s always nice finding a brand your skin agrees with, now if only they were more affordable in the US… :(
Jenny, I just love your photos, review and especially the layout of your page!! Everything is so clearly displayed and works as a graphic design porn for my eyes (lol). I’d love to hear your thoughts on the Darphin cleansing balm, I’ve been hearing a lot of good things about it! I wonder if it’s as spa-like product. Have a lovely weekend dear!!!
xx Laura / Laurantaina Beauty Blog
Thank you so much for the kind comment Laura! <3 I actually haven't had a chance to try the Darphin cleansing balm (forgot to buy it when I was in Paris *cries*), but I've heard nothing but glowing reviews for it so far! It's definitely on my list of products to try from them, but I'm trying to work through my current stash first.
Some beautiful ingredients there Jenny! xx I don’t really get too much redness or anything like that myself (even if I did, i’m too dark skin to see it lol) but it sounds really nourishing and amazing for the skin! Bit pricey though! Still bougie…
Marina xx
https://marinawriteslife.blogspot.fr/
The price point definitely puts these on the bougie brand list, haha, but at least they work well, so the value is there. Thanks so much for reading!
I love all things French too! Their skincare is incredible and always luxe, even when it is at an affordable price point. Love your reviews and how you break down all of the ingredients and benefits! Always so informative. Have a beautiful weekend!
xx, Amy
http://www.theluxilook.com
Totally agree Amy, the French really know their skincare and how to make it into a luxurious experience! Thanks for reading and happy Monday!
I love the sound of the soothing cream – it looks super luxurious too x
http://www.franklyflawless.com
It feels lovely on the skin :) Thanks for reading Sabiha!
These sounds great! I haven’t tried too many Darphin products, but boy do the French know good skin care. I totally get what you mean about having to keep working with a product. Though I would rather see more permanent results than temporary too. Especially for the price tag of Darphin. ;)
-Emily http://www.coatandcoffee.com
Totally agree Emily, I don’t think there is a French brand I’ve tried that’s disappointed me yet :P Just wish they weren’t so marked up in the US! Thanks for reading!
Thanks for such a detailed review, it sounds great!
x,
Chanel | Je M’appelle Chanel
Thanks for reading!
I totally feel like I need some brightening within my skincare products. I totally agree with you with skin-care being something more long-term beneficial, and you usually don’t see immediate results after application. I’ve been sticking to my current skincare regime for the past 2-3 years, and everything has been working until recently, but this may be a result of my lifestyle when I got back home? Really want these products on my face right now since they look really soothing and would help my skin that is blotching up. x) Thanks for the review!
Simplee Nikkie
Thanks for reading Nikkie! I was surprised at the brightening results as these aren’t marketed as such, even though they do use a few brightening ingredients. Sometimes when there’s a change in my lifestyle (whether it’s food or environment) I notice that my skin tends to react as well. Hope your skin calms down soon!
I don’t have much issue with redness, but they do sound like awesome products! Probably would try them if they weren’t so expensive!
Thanks for reading! It is a shame that they’re so pricey, but if you’re ever in France you can find these products for much less!
This is a brand I’ve been longing to try but you’re right, they are kind of on the pricey side. I still plan to make a couple of purchases though. This was a lovely review and you are very right about consistent use of products is the key to seeing great results. Thank you for always breaking down all of the ingredients and benefits for us. xx
Ann-Marie | http://facetocurls.com/
Thank you for reading Ann-Marie! For a high end brand I do appreciate that the ingredients they advertise are actually at the top of the list. But yes, consistent use is definitely key to seeing results!
I have yet to try the brand, but these sound wonderful and I like it made down size your routine x
Laura
Pink Frenzy
Yes! It’s always nice when a product does everything it claims and more! :)
Hey I am going to Paris. I will have to check this out when I am there. Thanks for posting I had not heard of them
Allie of
http://www.allienyc.com
Yes, definitely check them out when you’re there, the price difference is crazy!