L'OCCITANE / SMOOTHING FLUID + COMFORTING OIL
Winter takes a toll on the skin - and despite being 20 days into Spring, the cool temperatures are still present, and therefore have had a lasting effect on my complexion. At times it can feel as though no amount of moisturizer or beauty oil will be able to combat the dry patches that have formed from the cold blistering winds. But the somewhat recent release of two products, the L'Occitane Smoothing Fluid and the L'Occitane Comforting Oil, to the brands hugely popular Shea Butter line are proving that statement false.
For the past two weeks I've been using the L'Occitane Smoothing Fluid ($49) in the morning, and the L'Occitane Comforting Oil ($44) at night, in an attempt to re-hydrate my complexion. This system has been a blessing; almost instantly bringing back my skin's radiance, and easily removing the dry patches which had formed. The L'Occitane Smoothing Fluid somehow maintains a light-weight texture despite containing 5% Shea Butter; meaning it deeply hydrates and replenishes the skin, but somehow remains non-greasy, and therefore wearable under make-up. The formula also contains Rose Hip and Calendula, which are said to protect the skin against external stressors, thereby soothing and strengthening skin's natural defences. I'm not sure how one judges the efficacy of this claim, but I do feel protected as I imagine an invisible shield surrounding my face every time I pass by a steamy subway grate in the city.
At night, I switch it up with the L'Occitane Comforting Oil, which has the added benefits of four beauty oils, including sunflower, seabuckthorn, castor, and marula, alongside their standard 5% Shea Butter, making this oil ultra-nourishing. The L'Occitane Comforting Oil is one of the first I've seen with a pump rather than a dropper to dispense, however I've actually enjoyed that aspect as it delivers the perfect amount of oil each time, making the process slightly less messy – I was always such a klutz trying to close the bottle while balancing the oil in hand. The oil has a slightly runnier texture than the Josie Maran 100% Pure Argan Oil, yet still disappears into the skin quickly, leaving no trace on my pillow. In the morning I wake with deeply nourished skin that feels refreshed and boasts radiance. However, there are always those nights in which our skin could use a little extra, so I will often add a drop or two of the oil to an overnight mask, such as the Kiehl's Ultra Facial Overnight Hydrating Masque, in order to bring my complexion back from the dead.
SHOP THE PRODUCTS
Have you tried the L'Occitane Smoothing Fluid or Comforting Oil?
Let me know your thoughts on the products in the comment section below.