As a beauty editor, there are few things I anticipate more eagerly than Chanel’s annual Les Beiges launch. “Nude is a style” is the Les Beiges motto, and the entire range consists of low-key and wearable makeup shades with the sole purpose of making one look naturally radiant. Yes, please.

When the Summer 2019 collection landed on my desk, I impatiently unwrapped the eyeshadow palette (you’ll use every shade, guaranteed), sheer powder and lip balm, but it was the base product that fascinated me most. Not quite a foundation, not really an alphabet cream, the skin tint features micro-droplets of oil and pigment, finely-coated and suspended in a jelly-like watery phase, that break on contact and leave behind a barely-there luminous finish.

“The Les Beiges Water-Fresh Tint Foundation is in a category of its own, combining hydrating skincare and foundation in one,” confirms Chanel makeup artist Victoria Baron. “It doesn’t have the same instant, heavy, visible coverage like some foundations; once applied and the water evaporates, it offers an extremely effective but subtle second skin coverage.”

It also delivers a hefty dose of hydration thanks to the high water content, glycerin and tamarind extract, which is doubly important as we head into the cooler months. “This time of year, skin is exposed to the extremities of indoor heating and cold temperatures outside, which can lead to dryness and irritation, so keeping the complexion moisturized, nourished and free of heavy makeup will ensure there’s a luminosity and health to the skin, even during winter,” says Baron.

Apply as you would any other base product. Dispense a small amount on the back of your hand, then, using the ergonomic brush provided, “buff the tint a few times, starting from the centre of the face and working out toward the hairline, down the neck and over the ears,” explains Baron. Step back for a minute and let the tint settle, then go over any areas that need more coverage (“I often use a little more product on the centre of the face,” shares Baron). Experiment with a slightly darker shade than your usual skin tone to add warmth on the cheeks and temples, or layer the tint on top of your regular foundation for added moisture.

And away you glow.