Clarins offers a structured programme for consumers to request complimentary samples of its skincare and makeup products. The brand provides these samples primarily through two channels: at checkout when placing an online order, and in person at physical retail locations. The initiative is designed to allow customers to test products before committing to a full-size purchase, with a strong emphasis on plant-powered formulas and, more recently, eco-friendly packaging.
The core online offer provides three free samples with every online purchase. Customers can select these samples from a catalogue of over 120 trial-sized skincare and makeup products. Each sample is designed to last between one and five uses, providing a substantial opportunity to evaluate product performance. This service is available across the brand's online boutiques, including those serving the UK and Ireland.
Clarins has also made significant strides in sustainability regarding its sampling programme. In 2023, the brand introduced "Eco top" packaging for its samples, described as a thinner, lighter design using 42% recycled plastic. This initiative reportedly saved 16 tons of virgin plastic in its first year. The brand positions its sampling strategy as a way for products to "speak for themselves," relying on the quality of the formulas to build customer loyalty.
How to Request Clarins Samples Online
The process for obtaining free samples via the Clarins website is standardised across its online boutiques. The mechanism is integrated directly into the shopping journey rather than operating as a standalone mail-in programme.
The Checkout Process To receive samples, a customer must first make a purchase on the Clarins website. The free samples are not available without a transaction; they are a complimentary addition to an order. The steps are as follows: 1. Shop: Browse the Clarins catalogue and add desired products to the shopping bag. 2. View Bag: Proceed to the shopping bag summary. 3. Choose Samples: Look for a specific box or prompt labelled "Choose Samples" or similar wording. Clicking this reveals the sample catalogue. 4. Selection: Select three complimentary samples from the available options.
Eligibility and Limitations * Purchase Requirement: Samples are strictly tied to an online purchase. They are not available for free standalone request via post or email without an accompanying order. * Quantity Limit: The offer is capped at three samples per transaction. * Sample Catalogue: The selection varies but generally includes a wide range of skincare and makeup items. The brand states there are over 120 options available, subject to stock availability. * Usage: Samples are intended to provide 1 to 5 applications, allowing users to test efficacy over several days.
Clarins explicitly states that it does not provide samples or promotional items for external events or goodie bags. Such items are reserved exclusively for distribution within Clarins stores, stands, authorised sellers, and the official online shop.
In-Store Sampling Opportunities
Clarins maintains a physical retail presence where customers can access samples without making a prior purchase. This channel offers a more personalised experience compared to the online checkout method.
Personalised Consultation Customers visiting a Clarins counter or store can request a consultation with a Beauty Advisor. These advisors are trained to assess skin type and makeup preferences. Following a consultation, the advisor can provide a selection of samples tailored to the customer's specific needs. This allows for home testing of recommended formulas.
Finding a Location The brand directs customers to use its store locator tool on the website to find the nearest Clarins counter or boutique. The availability of samples in-store is not automated; it relies on the interaction with a Beauty Advisor.
Clarins' Eco-Friendly Sampling Initiative
In 2023, Clarins became the first beauty brand to introduce eco-friendly samples, marking a significant shift in packaging sustainability for promotional items.
The "Eco Top" Design The new sample packaging features a "thinner, lighter design" utilising 42% recycled plastic. This modification reduces the overall weight and material usage of the sample containers. The brand reported that this single change resulted in the saving of 16 tons of virgin plastic within the first year of implementation.
Environmental Messaging The sampling programme is framed within a broader context of resource conservation. Clarins emphasises that the samples are not just a marketing tool but a commitment to reducing waste. The longevity of the samples (1 to 5 uses) also contributes to this philosophy by preventing the waste associated with single-use sachets.
Clarins Sample Programme in Ireland and the UK
The source material references Clarins online boutiques in the USA, Canada, and Ireland. However, the mechanics of the sampling programme described are consistent across the brand's digital platforms.
Availability in Ireland
The specific URL provided for Ireland (clarins.ie/trymeloveme/) confirms that the "Choose 3 samples at checkout" offer is active in the Irish market. The terminology used ("post" rather than "mail") and the reference to a specific Irish landing page suggest a dedicated localised offering.
UK Context While a specific UK URL was not provided in the source data, Clarins operates a UK-specific online boutique. Based on the standardisation of the offer described in the source material—specifically the identical "Try. Love. Buy." and "Try. Love. Repeat." messaging and the "Choose 3 samples" mechanic—it is consistent with Clarins' global strategy to offer this incentive in the UK market. UK consumers should expect the same process: adding items to the bag and selecting three samples at checkout.
Comparison of Channels
| Channel | Requirement | Personalisation | Sample Selection |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online Checkout | Must place a paid order | Low (Self-selection) | Catalogue of 120+ items |
| In-Store | None (Walk-in) | High (Advisor-led) | Curated for specific skin needs |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I request samples without buying anything? No. The online sample offer requires a purchase. For in-store samples, a purchase is not strictly required, but access depends on a consultation with a Beauty Advisor.
Are the samples free? Yes, the samples themselves are complimentary. However, online samples are only issued in conjunction with a paid order.
How many samples can I get? Online: three per order. In-store: The quantity is determined by the Beauty Advisor but typically includes a selection relevant to the consultation.
What kind of samples are available? The catalogue includes over 120 skincare and makeup products. Examples include day creams, serums, foundations, and cleansers.
Do samples expire? The source material does not specify expiration dates for samples. However, as they are meant to test efficacy over a few days or weeks, it is advisable to use them promptly.
Are samples recyclable? The new "Eco top" samples are made with 42% recycled plastic. The recyclability of the specific sample packaging would depend on local recycling facilities.
Conclusion
Clarins operates a dual-channel sampling programme that integrates seamlessly with the customer journey. For online shoppers in the UK and Ireland, the primary method of obtaining free samples is via the checkout process, where three trial-sized products can be added to any paid order. The selection is extensive, offering over 120 options, and the samples are designed to provide multiple uses.
For those preferring a face-to-face experience, Clarins counters and stores offer complimentary consultations with Beauty Advisors who provide tailored samples. The brand has also taken a leadership position in sustainability by introducing eco-friendly sample packaging made from recycled materials. While the samples are not available for standalone request via post without a purchase, the programme effectively lowers the barrier to trying high-end skincare and makeup, allowing consumers to make informed decisions based on personal testing.