Clarins offers a complimentary samples programme for customers shopping online, providing the opportunity to select trial-sized skincare and makeup products with purchases. The programme is designed to allow consumers to test product effectiveness and suitability before committing to full-sized purchases. According to the brand, this approach enables customers to "try, love, and buy" by experiencing plant-powered beauty formulas over several days. The samples are available through the official Clarins online boutique and are not distributed via mail-in programmes or event partnerships.
The samples programme is integrated into the online checkout process. Once a customer has added items to their shopping bag, they can click on the box labelled "Choose Samples" to select their complimentary items. Clarins states that customers can choose from a catalogue of over 120 skincare and makeup trial sizes. These samples are subject to availability, and the selection may vary. Each sample is intended to provide approximately one to five uses, allowing sufficient product for multiple applications to assess performance.
Clarins emphasises the generous sizing of their samples, noting that they are intended for use over a few days to ensure the products are a good fit for the individual's skin and makeup needs. The brand encourages customers to take their time testing the formulas to find the products that best suit them. This approach aligns with the brand's philosophy of allowing the products to act as their own ambassadors.
In addition to the online samples programme, Clarins also offers in-person consultations at their counters and stores. Customers visiting a Clarins counter can receive a personalised consultation from a skilled Beauty Advisor, who will recommend suitable formulas and provide a selection of samples to try at home. This provides an alternative method for obtaining samples for those who prefer in-person shopping or wish to receive tailored advice. To find the nearest Clarins location, the brand directs customers to use their store locator tool.
Regarding the types of samples available, Clarins provides a wide selection. Customers are not restricted to a limited set of samples; instead, they can choose from over 120 different trial-sized products. This includes both skincare and makeup items. The availability of specific samples may change, but the catalogue aims to offer a broad range of options to cater to various skin types and preferences.
Clarins has also made efforts to reduce the environmental impact of their sampling programme. In 2023, the brand introduced eco-friendly samples featuring an 'Eco top' design. This design is thinner and lighter, utilising 42% recycled plastic. The brand reports that this initiative saved 16 tons of virgin plastic in its first year, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability alongside product sampling.
It is important to note that Clarins does not provide samples or promotional items for external events. The brand explicitly states that all samples and goodie bags are exclusively reserved for Clarins stores, stands, and the official Clarins website. Therefore, requests for event samples cannot be fulfilled. This policy ensures that samples are distributed through controlled and official channels.
The process for obtaining samples online is straightforward. Customers must first shop on the Clarins website and add desired products to their bag. After proceeding to view the bag, they will find the option to select up to three complimentary samples. The selection is made from the catalogue of over 120 options. This process is available with any online order, meaning a purchase is required to access the complimentary samples. There is no mention of a free-standing sample request form or mail-in programme for samples without a purchase.
Clarins does not specify any geographic restrictions within the provided source material, but the information is sourced from Clarins USA and Clarins Canada websites. UK consumers should verify availability through the official Clarins UK website, as product availability and shipping policies may differ by region. The brand does not mention any age restrictions or specific eligibility criteria beyond making a purchase on their online store.
The samples are intended for personal use and testing. The brand encourages customers to use the samples to find the must-have Clarins products that suit their skin best. By offering a substantial catalogue and generous sizing, Clarins aims to build customer loyalty through product experience rather than traditional advertising.
In summary, the Clarins samples programme is a purchase-activated benefit for online shoppers. It offers a high degree of choice and aligns with modern sustainability standards. For UK consumers, the primary route to obtaining samples is through the online store at checkout or via in-store consultations. There is no evidence of a mail-in sample programme or free sample requests without a purchase in the provided data.
Conclusion
The Clarins complimentary samples programme provides a structured method for customers to trial skincare and makeup products. Access is primarily available through the online checkout process with any purchase, allowing selection from a catalogue of over 120 trial sizes. Additionally, in-store consultations at Clarins counters offer another avenue for receiving samples. The brand has implemented eco-friendly packaging for these samples and explicitly does not provide samples for external events. UK consumers interested in Clarins samples should utilise the official online boutique or visit a Clarins counter for a personalised consultation.