There were many high school classes I nerded out over, but one of my absolute favourites was chemistry. Not because I did well—I came close to failing—but because I was obsessed with the science behind everything, the composition of chemicals and just generally figuring out how virgin cocktails came together. In January, I was lucky enough to attend a Vichy press conference in Paris. It felt the slightest bit like being back in high school, only the profs were immaculately-dressed Parisians, spiral notebooks were iPads, the rickety desks were leather banquettes and my fellow students were European beauty editors with the chicest sunglasses in town (we all wore 3D glasses for the presentation)

The subject of the day? A very important launch called Vichy's LiftActiv Derm Source. The formula is so unique, it required seven—yes, seven!—patents.  Available this month at major pharmacies nationwide, the day and night cream contain two key "discoveries," as they like to say in French beauty land.

1. Derm Source: this term refers to the papillary layer of your skin. In short,  like the foundation of your house, if the area isn't maintained, the outer layers start to crumble. LiftActiv ensures that this zone, responsible for regeneration cell fibres, but needed an agent to help protect and stimulate the area. Which leads us to the second discovery. 2. Rhamnose. This is a plant sugar native to Brazil, recognized in the pharmacy world for its soothing properties. It short, it's a super antioxidant that works in tandem with the Derm Source. The presentation concluded with a demo of the cream being whipped up by Aldo, a very cool French chemist, as well as a chocolat tasting because, you know. When in France... Bottom line? This is one serious anti-aging cream that promises to tackle fine lines all over the face, tighten the jawline, soften skin and bestow a luminosity that will have people asking "are you wearing illuminator?" and really, who wouldn't want all that? And to be honest, my fellow co-workers were fighting to get their hands on these—I ended up having to draw names from a hat! The lucky few who had the privilege came by my desk to rave—and back again after six weeks for a second fix. Like it just multiples on my desk or something. Both the night and day cream versions of this cream are supremely nourishing and soothing, and an absolute must-have for your spring beauty routine. Vichy is available at major pharmacies across Canada.