from Australia with love
Foreword
Today we will be finally talking about one of the most popular skincare brands on social media. As you might already know, Aesop are an Australian brand famous for their minimal, old-school "apothecary" packaging, botanical formulations and somewhat steep price tags. I have selected three interesting products to review for you in this post.
Curious? Then please keep on scrolling
My Skin: dry, sensitive
disclaimer
Aesop are known for their active use of essential oils. While their skincare is scientifically formulated in a way that should be safe and effective, some people might still have an allergic reaction to it. Personally speaking, I am fine with the ingredients used here; however, if you are unsure, please consult your dermatologist first.
All Aesop products are cruelty-free🐇 and vegan🍃 and come in a recyclable♻️ glass packaging.
Parsley Seed Toner
Aesop Parsley Seed Anti-Oxidant Facial Toner (63 USD; 6.8 fl oz/200 ml; Made in Australia) - is described as an antioxidant-rich toner that is supposed to balance and even the appearance of skin. Some of the key ingredients here are Aloe, Witch Hazel, Parsley Seed Oil, Lavender Stem and Blue Chamomile.
This product was my first purchase from the brand and it has quickly become an essential part of my daily skincare routine. Now, I know there are people who think that toners are a waste of money. As for me, my skin can be quite dry and irritated from being overexposed to chlorine (I am a swimmer), so I tend to benefit from layering multiple products including toners.
Parsley Seed Anti-Oxidant Facial Toner has a tea-like, watery texture and noticeable herbal scent that doesn't linger. I usually pour about a tea spoon amount directly onto palms and pat the product gently onto my face and neck. This formula has quite a calming effect on the skin (especially after swimming, when my face is practically burning from chemicals) and acts as a great "base" for all other skincare products I layer on top of it. I find that whenever I use this toner, my serums and creams penetrate skin better and as a result - it stays nurtured and hydrated all day long (especially during winter). This toner absorbs seamlessly and doesn't leave a weird, sticky residue.
final thoughts
If you have been on a hunt for that "all in one" refreshing and hydrating toner to use both day and night, you might really enjoy this formula. I have noticed positive changes as I kept on using this product: skin feels supple and I breakout less. While it is expensive, I find that one bottle will last you a very long time (at least 9-10 months) as you only use a small amount of toner at a time. Beautiful product for normal and dry skin types in particular that crave extra moisture. A+
Camellia Nut Cream
Aesop Camellia Nut Facial Hydrating Cream (43.50 USD; 2.1 oz/60ml; Made in Australia) - is a potent, yet lightweight cream that is infused with Aloe, Macadamia, Chamomile Bud, Sandalwood, Rosemary Leaf and Cocoa Seed Butter. It is specifically designed for people with dry or sensitive skin types and has a light herbal scent to it that doesn't linger.
This cream has been a true friend during colder winter months. It glides on like silk upon application and absorbs well, leaving my skin feeling supple and happy. One thing I really like about this formula is that it provides intense hydration, without ever being thick or heavy. Often times I add a few drops of Fabulous Face Oil to it and wake up to a baby smooth skin in the morning. I find that my skin's texture has improved over time, which is an added bonus. Can be used twice a day, however, I think it works best as a night cream.
Having said all that, this product does contain Coconut Oil that many people try to avoid as it can be quite comedogenic. My skin is sensitive, but thankfully it did not react badly to Camellia Nut Facial Hydrating Cream.
final thoughts
Excellent night cream for people with dry or very dry skin types. It did not clog pores, cause irritation or any other drama for that matter. Not the biggest fan of the scent (pretty herbal), but can live with it as long as I keep getting great results from Camellia Nut Facial Hydrating Cream. Is it my all time favorite? Not necessary, however, it does what it says and is worth the try. Although it is excellent for hydration, I feel like I want to explore more advanced options next, so my hunt for the ultimate night cream continues. I give this product B
Fabulous Face Oil
Aesop Fabulous Face Oil (57 USD; 0.9 fl.oz/25 ml; Made in Australia) - is a blend of nine potent botanicals that boost your skin with hydration and radiance. Some of the highlighted ingredients here are Macadamia, Sweet Almond and Camellia Seed Oils (as well as Juniper Berry, Ylang Ylang, Jasmine Petal).
Similarly to pretty much everything from the brand, this clear oil too has a very "spa"-like, green scent to it that is a bit more noticeable. Once applied, it does not linger on the skin though.
Fabulous Face Oil feels quite balmy and rich, so I would not recommend overusing it as it might then sit on the skin without getting fully absorbed. You can wear it on its own or mix it with other products. I typically add two-three drops of this oil to my moisturizers and that is all you need if your skin is on a drier side. Whenever I use this oil, I notice the difference right away: complexion is brighter, texture is smoother and pores don't get clogged as much.
final thoughts
This is a wonderful oil to mix in with your favorite moisturizers and creams if you want that extra kick of hydration. As long as you use Fabulous Face Oil sparingly, you will truly enjoy it. Best for people with dry skin types; might be overwhelming for those of you, who have combination or oily skin. I am a big fan of this oil, its quality and benefits, which is why I give it A
If you want to explore the world of Aesop skincare, yet you are a bit unsure whether these herbal formulations will work for you or not, ask for free samples at any Aesop store first. Whenever I buy their skincare, I get a ton of free sachets generously filled with product, that I can then safely test before breaking the piggy bank. At this point I must have tried at least ten different products from the brand, yet only three of them really stood out to me. Herbal skincare might not be for everyone, but overall this brand offers amazing quality products and has some hidden gems that I will gladly try in the future.
What do you guys think about this brand? Let's chat some more in the comments!
More online:
nordstrom.com (USA)
cultbeauty.com (World)
spacenk.uk (World)
Purchased products; full disclaimer here