Makeup Wars! Favorite Face Oils

Press Sample & Purchased (Affiliate Links)

When the Makeup Wars! Team decided to feature our favorite face oils, I was thrilled given my penchant for luxury oils, but since today is my birthday it seemed all the more appropriate to participate! This is, therefore, something of a love letter to some of my very favorite beauty oils.

African Botanics Fleurs D'Afrique Intensive Recovery Oil was envisioned  and conceived as a new type of antioxidant-rich, anti-inflammatory anti-aging oil– the likes of which did not yet exist. Unlike many luxury oils that add water to break down water-soluble actives, African Botanics opted not to dilute the oils, but instead utilized highly potent oil soluble actives. Furthermore, they source rare ingredients of the highest quality from remote locations, and the end result is a staggeringly unique beauty oil that easily rivals the most potent and effective anti-aging serums in the marketplace today. 

African Botanics Fleurs d’Afrique Intensive Recovery Oil is a highly concentrated luxury oil that is lightweight in texture and fast absorbing. The texture, is itself, ultra-silky and it leaves skin feeling like the softest cashmere conceived. It has an utterly intoxicating aroma that is a delectable fusion of the Jasmine Grandiflorum, Rosa Damascena Flower Oil, Kalahari Melon Seed Oil and Marula Seed Oil. It is a warm and earthy floral that delights the senses, calms the mind and nourishes the skin. During the entire experience of using this precious oil, one is reminded that it is unlike anything else previously imagined– let alone actually created. It is an oil to be savored, and the tactile and sensory experience is so exquisite that one immediately slows down to really relish the experiential component of this highly effective ultra-luxe beauty oil. 

African Botanics Fleurs d’Afrique Intensive Recovery Oil utilizes a visionary delivery system that allows the ingredients to penetrate the skin deeply in order to effectively nourish the skin, to stimulate skin cell renewal, to restore and regenerate skin and to protect and heal. Furthermore, this unique formula softens the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while fading hyperpigmentation, and it reduces inflammation and redness.

I simply apply a few drops to my freshly washed skin, that is still warm and slightly damp, and gently press in and release the oil into my face, neck and décolletage, as recommended. Skin is immediately left with a gorgeous, pronounced luminosity and an ethereal glow. As previously noted, African Botanics Fleurs d’Afrique Intensive Recovery Oil sinks in immediately, but it neither leaves behind a greasy film, nor does it require a long wait before finishing up the skincare routine or applying makeup.

My skin is notably different in that the overall texture is more even in tone and the small areas of light hyperpigmentation have noticeably faded. My fine lines are softened and my skin appears more taut and lifted. Furthermore, it effectively encourages skin cell-turnover to eliminate dull and dry dead skin cells in order to reveal luminous fresh skin.

This oil balances skin, and has regulated my active T-Zone while simultaneously fighting redness and inflammation during my monthly hormonal cycle. I also found it remarkable that it healed a hormonal breakout overnight because of its ability to regulate hormonal skin and radically reduce inflammation.

While I do not have particularly enlarged pores, I have noted that mine are now far less noticeable. Additionally, the pores that have always been prone to clogging on my nose and chin no longer appear congested.

African Botanics claims that African Botanics Fleurs d’Afrique Intensive Recovery Oil will leave skin, "luminous, more youthful with increased firmness, elasticity and clarity" and I can attest to the veracity of this statement. This lovely oil leaves skin soft, supple, hydrated and luminous unlike anything else that I have tried.

According to African Botanics,

From a world of truly wild and remote locations far from all civilization and light pollution in the most southern hemisphere of Africa, there is an eternal beauty that endures all time.

Exotic night blooms, indigenous African desert and bush plants that have adapted to survive the challenges of their environment are harnessed and captured with a potent concentration of highly advanced marine biotechnology that is packed with anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, soothing and healing properties.

($250.00 for 1 oz. from African Botanics, Cult Beauty, Credo Beauty, Need Supply Co, Violet Grey and Net-A-Porter)

African Botanics Neroli Infused Marula Oil is was a truly amazing oil. There is something magical about Neroli Infused Marula Oil from the feather light texture to the sweet and understated smell of the Neroli. It is a thin and potent oil that immediately sinks in and gets right to work. When I told Julia Noik that I was shocked by the efficacy of her Neroli Infused Marula oil, and that it was one of the most amazing oils that I had tried- she said, "Marula Oil is lightweight and quick-absorbing, but at the time is very nourishing, thanks to the Omega 9 content of the oil (70% - 80%). It is the fastest way to deliver essential nutrients and vitamins to the skin."

As with all luxury oils, I apply African Botanics Neroli Infused Marula Oil to warm and damp freshly cleansed skin. The added slip from the water facilitates quick absorption followed my an immediate radiance and glow. Every single time that I apply this lovely oil (which is quite often) I note that my skin reveals a new found clarity and evenness of tone. 

According to African Botanics,

Neroli infused Marula Oil is a natural, cold pressed, light textured facial oil blend that is easily absorbed into skin. Rich in vitamins C + E & natural antioxidants that help cells renew & resist damage. High in essential fatty acids (Omega 9 oleic & Omega 6 linoleic) that deeply hydrate skin & reduce redness while protecting against the elements. This impeccable facial anti-aging oil infused with essence of Neroli, penetrates deeply for soft, supple & radiant skin. pH balanced & non-comedogenic.

Directions: "Apply to clean, moist skin where needed: face, neck and décolleté. Gently massage in upward circular motions. Stimulating these areas will increase circulation and allow deep penetration of active ingredients. Recommended: 1-2 pumps for combo to oily skin, 2-4 pumps for dry to mature skin."

Some Extra Tips: "Great under make-up for a fresh look at any time, or as a nourishing overnight treatment. A few drops of Neroli Infused Marula Oil mixed with sunscreen, foundation or tinted moisturizer will illuminate the skin.Rejuvenating & nourishing treatment for re-conditioning your skin after snow, wind, sun exposure and following laser / cosmetic treatments.Can be used under your regular night cream/serum and eye cream as it will provide optimum hydration.Use it on hair to restore shine and relieve frizz.Use on hands to treat everyday dryness."

Ingredients: Sclerocarya birrea (Marula Essential Oil), Citrus aurantium (Neroli Essential Oil). That's it!

($120.00 for 1 oz. from African Botanicals and Space NK)

May Lindstrom The Youth Dew Hydrating Serum is more of a magical golden elixir than a mere beauty oil. This gem of an ultra-luxe face oil is lightweight, fast absorbing and has a delectable aroma that is punctuated by the Rosa Damascena (Bulgarian Rose) Essential Oil. This antioxidant-rich potion provides the skin with immediate hydration, nourishment and a pronounced luminosity. After a few days of use, I noted that my face, neck and décolleté were unusually soft, supple, hydrated and luminous. This oil is so nourishing and hydrating that I am actually able to forgo an added moisturizer altogether. May Lindstrom suggests that The Youth Dew is very well suited for dry skin, but it is not too rich for normal/combination skin like mine. I simply warm a couple of drops between my hands and massage it into my warm, damp skin. The results are unmistakable and undeniable. 

May Lindstrom, the eponymously named line of its creator, is a healthy skincare collection that uses sustainably sourced certified organic, wild harvested, biodynamic and vegan ingredients of the highest quality. May, a former model known as the "skin chef," lovingly makes each batch by hand, and is among the short list visionaries to create ultra luxurious natural skincare products. More of a magician, or alchemist, May has an innate understanding of the raw materials and is able to commingle disparate elements to create harmonious blends that ignite the senses and nourish the skin.

May Lindstrom is a line that inspires a profound engagement with the ritual associated with the finest quality skincare products that boast otherworldly textures, heavenly aromas, and astonishing results. Stress melts away as one yields oneself to the undeniable experiential aspect of this magical line, and one cannot help but savor every moment of this glorious process.

According to May Lindstrom,

This joyously over-the-top hydrating potion transforms skin with a power-packed bouquet of 20 ambitiously regenerating and indulgent plant and botanical oils infused with time-stopping CoEnzyme Q10. The Result: A Petal Soft Complexion that Glows with Ageless Grace. 

Directions: Apply a few potent drops to moist skin morning and night for the only hydration your skin requires. 

Ingredients:*Persea Americana (Avocado) Oil, *Limnanthes Alba (Meadowfoam Seed) Oil, *Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Oil, *Olea Europaea (Olive) Oil, Prunus Spp (Plum Kernel) Oil, *Hippophae Rhamnoides (Sea Buckthorn) Oil, *Rosa Rubiginosa (Rosehip Seed) Oil, *Punica Granatum (Pomegranate) Oil, *Calophyllum Inophyllum (Tamanu) Oil, *Borago Officinalis (Borage Seed) Oil, Aleurites Moluccans (Kukui Nut) Oil, *Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Oil, *Pelargonium Graveolens (Geranium Rose) Essential Oil, *Citrus Paradisi (Grapefruit) Essential Oil, *Citrus Sinensis (Sweet Orange) Essential Oil, *Citrus Limon (Lemon) Essential Oil, *Rosa Damascena (Rose Absolute) Essential Oil, *Rosa Damascena (Bulgarian Rose) Essential Oil, *Citrus Aurantium (Neroli) Essential Oil, ***Daucus Carota (Carrot Seed) Essential Oil, Ubiquinone (CoEnzyme Q10). *Certified Organic ***Wild Harvested.  7.91% Linoleic / 27.08% Oleic Acid- Very well suited for dry skin.

($120.00 for .68 oz. from May Lindstrom, Barneys New York, Cult Beauty UK (£96.00), Beautylish, Follain, Ahalife, Shen Beauty and Beautyhabit)

Vintner's Daughter Active Botanical Serum For Face is a marvelous luxury elixir that has quickly risen through the ranks to achieve pride of place on the short list of top luxury beauty oils for even the most picky aficionados. I am among them. Vintner's Daughter was created by April Gargiulo, a Napa Valley vintner, who wanted to formulate a potent and active organic botanical serum that was free of chemical compounds and toxic ingredients.  Therefore, she joined forces with natural beauty experts, and they spent two years formulating Active Botanical Serum. This potent phytoactive beauty oil in an anti-aging treatment that features, "energy dense botanicals that infuse every drop of Active Botanical Serum with anti-inflammatory phytonutrients, firming phytoceramides, nourishing fatty-acids and powerful anti-oxidants." In its capacity as a titan of anti-aging, this luxury oil serum was formulated to, "stimulate cellular turnover; maintain skin elasticity; strengthen capillaries; inhibit melanin production; deliver oxygen to cells and protect against free-radical damage." Furthermore, one quickly notices that skin appears more soft, supple, hydrated,  even in tone, lifted, moisturized, radiant and youthful.

Vintner’s Daughter Active Botanical Serum is described as, 

...a luxurious multi-correctional infusion of 22 of the world’s most active organic and wildcrafted botanicals. At the heart of this powerful treatment is an energy dense phyto radiance infusion. Combined with highly targeted essential oils, our formulation combines anti-inflammatory phytonutrients, skin firming phytoceramides, nourishing fatty-acids and powerful antioxidants to help fight signs of aging; stimulate cellular turnover; maintain skin elasticity; strengthen capillaries; inhibit melanin production; prevent wrinkles; deliver oxygen to cells and protect against free-radical damage. The small particle size of our proprietary formula allows our active botanicals to deeply penetrate skin’s layers and because the skin fully recognizes the plant actives as the nutritive building blocks of its own structure, skin becomes more healthy, radiant and youthful.

This lightweight and fast absorbing golden elixir boasts a delectable warm and earthy aroma from which one can detect the Rose Damascena Absolute, Jasminum Grandiflorum Flower and a fusion of the remaining essential oils. The intoxicating aromatherapeutic experience delights and calms the senses while it quiets the mind. I find that I slow down and inhale deeply as I massage in into my skin, and that any residual stress that I may have been experiencing just melts away. This ritual is utterly relaxing, and it heightens the sensory experience of using this luxe oil.

My default method of beauty oil application has always been to warm it in my hands before massaging it into my damp, freshly cleansed skin. However, I was intrigued by the Push/Press Technique for Maximum Radiance that Vintner's Daughter suggests, and after having tried it numerous times I must confess that it is a remarkably effective technique.

Vintner's Daughter Active Botanical Serum significantly bolsters radiance and it leaves skin silky smooth, soft and supple. I note a distinct brightening and evening of my skin tone, a lifting and softening on my fine lines, and an undeniable increase in the long term hydration of my skin.

Ingredients: Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil; Corylus Avellana (Hazelnut) Oil; Citrus Aurantium Var Bergamia (Bergamot) Peel Oil; Persea Americana (Avocado) Oil; Calendula Officinalis (Marigold) Extract; Rose Damascena (Rose) Absolute; Daucus Carota (Carrot) Seed Oil; Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Oil; Rosa Rubignosa (Rosehip) Seed Oil; Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel; Lavandula X Intermedia (Lavender) Flower; Medicago Sativa (Alfalfa) Leaf; Urtica Dioica (Nettle) Leaf; Taraxacum Officinale (Dandelion) Leaf; Boswellia Carteri (Frankincense) Oil); Citrus Aurantium Var Amara (Neroil) Flower Oil; Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract; Hippophae Rhamnoides (Sea Buckthorn) Fruit; Curcuma Longa (Tumeric) Root Oil; Cupressus Sempervirens (Cypress) Leaf Oil; Jasminum Grandiflorum (Jasmine) Flower; Calophyllum Tacamahaca (Tamanu) Oil. 100% Chemical And Toxin Free And Is Formulated Without Parabens, Phthalates, Synthetic Fragrances, PEGs, And SLSs.

($185.00 for  30 ml/ 1 oz. from Vintner's Daughter, Space NK, Need Supply Co and Cult Beauty (£150.00)

Odacité Ac+R | Youthful Glow Acai Rose Serum Concentrate is an antioxidant-rich, anti-aging luxury beauty oil that is formulated to deeply hydrate the skin, soften the appearance of fine-lines and wrinkles, and improve the tone and texture of the skin. Additionally, I noted that my skin was soft, supple and boasted a dewy glow. It is a lightweight and fast absorbing oil that can be used any time of the day. It has a warm rose aroma that I find utterly delectable.

Features and Benefits:

• Ultra-strength antioxidant serum that addresses all aspects of skin aging: wrinkles & firmness, tone, texture and hydration.

• Experience the extraordinary power of nature with superfood Acai berry, they boasts the highest antioxidant power in the world. Carefully harvested and cold pressed, Acai berries yield  the most active beauty elixir. 

• Scientifically made with effective yet gentle essential oils, including rose oil, famous for its anti-aging properties of cell oxygenation and capillary reparation.

• Gluten Free

($55.00 For  0.17 Oz. from Odacité, Odacité Official Amazon Store, Cult Beauty & Nordstrom)

Directions: In the palm of your hand, supercharge your daily dose of crème by mixing in 2-3 drops of Ac+R. Or apply alone for a more intensive treatment.

Ingredients: Highest grade cold-pressed Acai (Euterpe Oleracea) Fruit Oil, Rosa Damascena (Rose) Flower Oil, Citrus Aurantium Amara (Neroli) Flower/Leaf Oil, Jasminum Sambac (Jasmine) Flower Oil, Jasminum Grandiflorum (Jasmine) Flower Oil, Cananga Odorata (Ylang Ylang) Flower Oil, Litsea Cubeba Fruit Oil, Vanillosmopsis Erythropappa (Bisabolol) Wood Oil, Canarium Lozonicum (Elemi) Gum Oil, Cedrus Atlantica (Cedar) Wood Oil, Certified Gmo-Free Vitamin E (Tocopherols) Oil.

Aftelier Organic Honeysuckle Face Elixir, is less a beauty oil, and more a work of art of exceptional rarity. Indeed, this is perhaps the singular beauty oil against which all other beauty oils will be judged in perpetuity. Aftel describes the Honeysuckle Face Elixir as one that, "features rare honeysuckle absolute from Italy, extracted from the creamy white and yellow trumpet flowers. This sweet heavenly aroma is intoxicating, honeyed, and reminiscent of ripe fruit."

There is an immediate sense of the pricelessness of this rare Italian Honeysuckle Absolute that, to my sensibilities, links it to a tradition of cultivating exquisite raw materials from the fertile land in Italy, and that can only be unlocked by the creative genius of a true artist. Mandy releases the true potential of this rare ingredient because of her particular deep understanding of the materials with which she engages, and does so in the same way that Michelangelo was able to free his sculpture from his raw blocks of Carrara marble. He was able to envisage what lay beneath the unhewn block and through his creative genius and deft touch was able to unlock its great potential that in the hands of anyone else would not come to pass.

It is in this way that Mandy was able to coax from this rare Italian Honeysuckle Absolute, and bring to fruition, something so unique and singular, so unfathomably beautiful and elegant, and so extraordinary in vision, and exquisite in its execution. It is, unmistakably, a peerless creation, and as such it cannot be compared to any luxury oils on the market– even those created by the master herself.

This triumphant achievement is immediately obvious the moment that you open the bottle and take the first deep inhalation of this intoxicating golden elixir. The rich and creamy honeysuckle has a depth and complexity that unfurls slowly, and once it commingles with the warmth of the skin it graciously expands and delights. This is by no means an ordinary Honeysuckle, and while one may lay the claim to being an avid lover of honeysuckle generally, one most assuredly has not encountered this one anywhere else. 

Mandy's beauty oils have soul. They are almost like little beings unto themselves, and to try to capture their dynamic complexity is no small feat.

Aftel asserts, "Aftelier elixirs are a luxurious combination of fragrance and richly nourishing ingredients; they leave a veil of fragrance on your skin or in your hair that mixes beautifully with your body chemistry." Indeed, her elixirs are only possible as a result of the imaginings of a renown atelier perfumer who innately and intuitively understands how to reveal the potential of each precious scent, and how to pair it with others to create never before seen or smelled essences.

According to Aftel,

Our antioxidant rich face elixirs comfort your skin and promote cell regeneration. 
 Our lightweight face elixir is immediately absorbed softening and conditioning your skin. Use on your clean face before bed, and drift off to sleep in a light veil of fragrance that promotes relaxation. When you wake up, your skin will feel wonderfully nourished and revitalized. 
 Mandy creates them from the following organic oils:
 - Organic grapeseed and organic sweet almond, rich in vitamins and minerals, helps tone the skin
 - Organic rice bran oil reduces the formation of wrinkles and slows down aging - Organic squalane helps hydrate and protect the skin, encourages regeneration of healthy skin cells, and prevents premature aging of the skin
 - Organic camellia oil, rich in anti-oxidants and vitamin E - Organic rose hip oil improves elasticity and has a rejuvenating effect on the skin.

This fresh floral oil is immediately moisturizing, softening, and conditioning. Furthermore, 

skin is left hydrated, plumped and luminous. It is luscious to use, and the benefits to the skin

are truly remarkable. Of course it does all of the magical things that only Mandy's Face Elixirs are capable of, but this rare Italian Honeysuckle beckons me like nothing before. It is intoxicatingly beautiful, and neither too sweet, nor too predictably floral. It occupies a liminal space between waking life and dreamscapes: it is tantamount to the discovery of a mythological creature, but one that actually exists. 

The glorious scent envelopes and enraptures the senses while it quiets the mind. This is an experiential luxury face oil that has no equivalent.

(Available in a 15 Ml Dropper Bottle $65.00 from Aftelier Perfumes)

Sisley Black Rose Precious Face Oil is an utterly luscious luxury beauty oil that truly has to be experienced in order to understand the extent of its efficacy, and to feel its truly divine texture. It is a silky smooth dry oil that sinks into the skin immediately as a result of its feather-light texture. While this ultra luxe oil was formulated for dry or mature skin, it isn't too rich for normal to combination skin types. My skin is neither dry, nor mature, and I have been truly astounded by the benefits of this oil.

Sisley Paris Black Rose Precious Face Oil is an antioxidant rich anti-aging dry oil that is rich in Omegas 3 and 6, and it offers a very high concentration of active ingredients. This silky-smooth elixir sinks in quickly and deeply nourishes the skin, and one of the most immediately obvious effects is that skin is left feeling like velvet. This luscious velvet rose miracle is a joy to the senses because the tactile effects coupled with the glorious rich rose scent makes its use a truly extraordinary sensory experience.

I apply a few drops of this luxurious oil to my warm and freshly cleansed face, neck and décolleté and it sinks in immediately. My skin is immediately left deeply moisturized and nourished, and it is rendered soft, supple and glowing. Furthermore, my skin appears even in tone, lifted, and my fine lines are softened and plumped.

According to Sisley,

Visibly smooth wrinkles and fine lines while revitalizing your skin and leaving it intensely nourished, supple and soft with Black Rose Precious Face Oil by Sisley Paris. With its high concentration of plant-based active ingredients, including padina pavonica, unsaponifiables of avocado and natural tocopherols, the oil provides the essential elements for your skin’s vitality and youthfulness. Plum and camelina oils maintain your skin’s lipid balance, black rose extract gives your complexion a wonderfully silky softness and essential oils of Bulgarian rose and magnolia have toning and soothing properties.

An essential in the daily care of dry or mature skin, this product contains Black Rose oil and an exquisite combination of essences and natural active ingredients with skin-repairing and stimulating properties.

Instantly, lines are smoothed and skin feels satiny soft without shine. The moisturizing action lasts for 8 hours and the skin is intensively nourished and protected. With regular application, the skin's natural feel and suppleness are restored. After 4 weeks, wrinkles and fine lines are visibly reduced. The skin regains its fullness, and is revitalized and radiant.

Suggested use: Apply 3-7 drops in the morning or evening on bare skin, including your face and neck, avoiding the area around the eyes. Use alone or before your daily skincare regimen.

($235.00 for 0.84 Oz./ 25 Ml. from Sisley Paris, Nordstrom, Barneys New York, Neiman Marcus, Bergdorf Goodman, Saks Fifth Avenue, Bloomingdale's, Amazon, Selfridges (£136.00), Liberty London (£136.00), Harvey Nichols (£143.00), House Of Fraser (£143.00) And John Lewis (£136.00)

själ saphir concentrate anti-aging face oil is an utterly lavish jewel soaked beauty elixir that has a feather-light consistency that soaks into the skin quickly, and it immediately imparts a luscious and luminous glow. The scent itself defies easy categorization, though one does detect the delightful citrus notes. I would say that the evocative scent is simultaneously calming and intoxicating, and once I begin using it with regularity the scent began to beckon me. I realize that this sounds a bit crazy, but once this luxury oil gets under your skin it  quickly becomes a highly craved part of one's beauty routine. There is something irresistible about the sensory experience that is only matched by the astounding results of this anti-aging masterpiece.

Skin is immediately brightened and luminous with a pronounced clarity. My skin routinely feels energized upon application, and there is an unmistakable flushing of the skin as this magical oil seems to stimulate increased circulation. My skin is immediately calmed, and my skin-tone immediately appears more even and healthy. Repeated use results in a diminution of fine lines as skin is plumped and elasticity is improved. Skin is left deeply nourished, hydrated and balanced while the aromatherapeutic effects soothe the spirit and quiet the mind. Skin is revitalized while this potent anti-aging luxury oil performs miracles on the skin. This gorgeous gem is a true modern masterpiece, and it remains one of my very favorite luxury face oils.

I warm up about two drops in my hands and then massage it into my damp and warm freshly cleansed skin. själ saphir concentrate can be used day or night, or better yet day and night. The effects of this beautiful elixir are immediately obvious, and it's hard not to reach for it all of the time once you see how potent and transformational it is! 

Ingredients: Camellia Oleifera Seed Oil, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, Limnanthes Alba (Meadowfoam) Seed Oil, Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil, Citrus Aurantium Amara (Bitter Orange) Flower Oil, Jasminum Grandiflorum (Jasmine) Oil, Citrus Sinensis (Sweet Orange) Peel Oil, Lavandula Stoechas (Lavender) Extract, Salvia Sclarea (Clary) Oil, Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Oil, Gossypium Herbaceum (Cotton) Seed Oil, Linum Usitatissimum (Linseed) Seed Oil, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Oil, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Bidens Pilosa Extract, Alaria Esculenta Extract, Elaeis Guineensis (Palm) Oil, Tocopherol.

($175.00 Barneys New York, Space NK & Bloomingdale's)

TATCHA GOLD Camellia Beauty Oil is among those extraordinary beauty oils that quickly distinguishes itself from the many run-of-the-mill oils on the market. Not only is it made from the highest quality ingredients, but this elegant elixir is feather-light, sinks into the skin immediately, leaves behind no greasy film or residue, and gives skin a stunning ethereal glow. If you are obsessed with luxury beauty oils, as am I, then you owe it to yourself to try this one.

I apply TATCHA GOLD Camellia Beauty Oil to slightly damp freshly washed skin after warming it in my hands, and then I massage it into my face, neck and décolleté rubbing any remaining oil into my hair. This lightly scented oil sinks in immediately leaving skin deeply hydrated, nourished and luminous. I find that my skin appears more even in tone and with a pronounced clarity. Furthermore, the combination of the silky texture, 24-karat gold flakes, and beautiful scent make the tactile experience of its use an even more luxurious and pleasurable one. I have to say that I find absolutely no fault in this luxury oil, and can only sing its praises.

TATCHA is among a short list of companies producing luxury niche skincare products of exemplary quality that are so exquisite, elegant and breathtakingly beautiful, down to the most minute detail, that one finds oneself enraptured by the visual and tactile aspects of these lovely gems. The sheer efficacy of their beautiful products is what keeps TATCHA enthusiasts, like me, forever loyal to the brand!

Ingredients: Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Squalane (Olive Origin), Camellia Japonica Seed Oil, Fragrance (Natural), Polyglyceryl-10 Pentaisostearate, Dimer Dilinoleyl Dimer Dilinoleate, Phytosteryl Macadamiate (Macadamia), Oryza Sativa (Rice) Germ Oil, Water, Tocopherol, Stearyl Glycyrrhetinate (Licorice Extract), Oryzanol (Rice Bran Oil Extract), Inositol (Rice Extract), Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Alcohol, Glycerin, Algae Extract, Gold, Phenoxyethanol.

(10 Ml / 0.34 Fl. oz. $33.00 Travel Size from TATCHA. 30ml / 1.01 oz. $95.00 From TATCHA, Sephora, Barneys New York)

The Organic Pharmacy Antioxidant Face Firming Serum is a powerful anti-aging serum that has earned the nickname "the instant face lift" because it "reduces wrinkles, mops up free radicals, reverses skin damage, lifts and tones the skin."

If I had to choose a single skincare powerhouse product that I couldn't live without- it would definitely be a potent face oil. While many of the oils that I use offer great nourishment to the skin, there are few as power-packed with anti-aging antioxidants as The Organic Pharmacy's Antioxidant Face Firming Serum. When it comes to wanting astounding visible results, and a notable difference- this is the only one that I have reached for over the last couple of years.

I must state that this beautiful oil has the intoxicating scent of Sweet Orange- therefore upon application you are assured of a magnificent and visceral sensory experience. This brilliant concoction boasts a high concentration of the powerful Alpha Lipoic Acid, a known powerful antioxidant, that helps to prevent cell damage by scavenging free-radicals. The high concentration of Rose Hip Oil is rich in transretinoic acid and essential fatty acids, and is clinically proven to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and also helps to reduce scarring over time. Sweet Orange helps prevent capillary fragility, and Carrots are rich in Beta Carotene (part of the Vitamin A family), and are rich antioxidants that protects the skin against free-radicals. Lemon (Citrus Limonum) lifts, tones and exfoliates the skin, and does so in an immediately visible way. This is also to say nothing of the fact that my skin is left soft, supple, and deeply moisturized and hydrated.

This combination of ingredients, along with those that I didn't enumerate, create a powerful cocktail that has visibly changed the texture and clarity of my skin. There is a notable lifting effect in that my expression lines are radically softened, and my skin has an unprecedented radiance and clarity. I would describe this oil as one that stimulates circulation because my skin has the type of radiance that is not superficial, but one instead that causes my skin to have a rosy radiance as though lit from within.

Suggested usage: "Mix 2 drops of serum with Organic Pharmacy moisturizer and apply every morning to slightly damp skin. At night mix 4 drops of gel with 2 drops of serum and apply to damp skin after cleansing. No night cream is necessary." 

I tend not to mix the serum with my moisturizer, but instead prefer to massage it directly into my skin all by itself. It is a truly divine experience! It should be noted that it is very concentrated and potent- it really only takes two drops to do the trick. I tend to warm it up in my hands first and then massage it into my face afterward.

Ingredients: Alpha Lipoic Acid, Rose Hip (Rosa Canina) Oil, Sweet Orange (Citrus Aurantium Dulcis), Vitamin C (Ascorbyl Palmitate) , Vitamin E (Tocopherol) , Limonene , Carrot (Daucus Carrota) , DMAE (Dimethylaminoethanol), Grapefruit (Citrus Grandis), Grapeseed Extract (Vitis Vinifera), Linalool, Lemon (Citrus Limonum).

($160.00 for 1.1 oz. from Barneys New York and Selfridges)

Colbert MD Illumino Face Oil is no ordinary oil. It has a thin water-like consistency that allows it to sink into the dermis faster, and presumably deeper, than any other oil that I have tried. Therefore, the efficacy of this delivery system is peerless among all of the luxury beauty oils that I have tried. Furthermore, among the ingredients is the brilliant addition of retinol-- thereby making this one of the most advanced anti-aging beauty oils on the market. The result of the advanced technology employed in the creation of this face oil is glowing soft youthful skin. Illumino is an apt name given that skin boasts a luminous glow that appears lit from within.The difference in the quality of my skin was evident after a single use, no exaggeration. The results were that immediate for me. After prolonged use my skin continues to look better and better (and my skin was in good shape to begin with). This is also the perfect oil for those who remain fearful of using face oils because it is light and thin and sinks in quickly without any of the "oiliness" that make novices to the world of beauty oils uncomfortable. Once you try Illumino Face Oil, you will understand why it has rightfully earned cult-status among beauty oil aficionados. Additionally, once you try it-- you won't ever want to be without it! The scent is a very pleasant light fruity floral that dissipates very quickly, but is deliciously satisfying. This glorious magical face elixir will delight you because of the featherweight texture, but will truly astound you because of the results.

Oils tend to penetrate the skin deeper than traditional lotions and creams because they are lipophilic which allows them to pass through the lipid layer of the skin unobstructed, and this delivers moisture deeper and prevents water loss while simultaneously plumping the skin. Since oils offer a better delivery system than traditional creams and lotions, those with active ingredients (vitamins, retinols, anti-inflammatory ingredients, etc.) are delivered more efficiently and without irritating the surface of the skin. Additionally, oils create a protective occlusive barrier, and are said to protect the skin's acid mantle which means that by bolstering the skin's lipid barrier the skin is more protected against external environmental assaults. The essential fatty acids found in face oils replenish moisture levels, deliver deep hydration, and give skin a healthy glow while offering additional protection. 

The oils selected by Dr. Colbert create a perfect cocktail that aids in cell repair, improves skin tone and texture, improves elasticity, improves suppleness, improves hydration, bolsters skin barrier function, and deeply nourishes. Additionally, after using this potent miracle in a bottle-- I found that my skin had such a pronounced clarity that I could easily skip wearing a foundation or tinted moisturizer. Some kind of magic is born out of the list of ingredients that were so carefully selected to create the ultimate antioxidant rich anti-aging face oil. 

Colbert MD describes Illumino Face Oil as,

An instantly soothing face oil that improves skin's overall tone, texture and glow.
Retinol and Vitamin C Esters work at the topical level to soothe and comfort the complexion while patented QuSome technology delivers oil deep into the skin for optimum results.

Visibly improves elasticity and suppleness while instantly hydrating and nourishing skin. Uniquely formulated with QuSome technology, this luxurious oil delivers essential nutrients deep into the dermis.

Key ingredients and attributes: 
Borage Seed Oil: A rich source of Gamma Linoleic Acid (GLA) which aids in cell repair and improves skin’s overall tone and texture.
Yangu Oil: Improves skin’s elasticity, suppleness.
Marula Oil Infused with Oleic Acid: which aids in hydration and skin barrier function.
Passion Fruit Oil: Improves skin’s elasticity while acting as an antioxidant.

Argan Oil: A deeply penetrating antioxidant rich in Vitamin E.


Ingredients: Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Sclerocarya Birrea Seed Oil, Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, Passiflora Incarnata Seed Oil, Calodendrum Capense Seed Oil, Peg-12 Glyceryl Dimyristate, Borago Officinalis Seed Oil, Fragrance, Retinyl Palmitate, Ascorbyl Palmitate.

($150.00 for 1 oz. Available from Amazon, Barneys New York, Bloomingdale's, Colbert MD, & SpaceNK)

Overall Assessment: While there are so many beauty oils on the market, they are hardly created equally. I have tried a wide range of luxury face oils, and these 11 rank among the very finest that I have ever tried. Please visit the Luxury Oils page on this website to see all of the oils that I have reviewed so far.

What are your favorite beauty oils? Are there any that you would like for me to try and review?

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