Zelens Z-22 Absolute Face Oil is one of those products I can’t make up my mind about.
On the one hand, it’s super moisturising. It’s not loaded with synthetic crap like most other fancy oils. And it smells divine.
On the other, all those fragrant oils that make it smell divine could trigger a nasty rash in sensitive skin. I get it that brands want their products to smell nice, but is that a good enough reason to sneak a few irritants in?
If it weren’t for those fragrant oil, this facial oil would be perfect. Here’s why:
What’s In Zelens Z-22 Absolute Face Oil?
NATURAL OILS (DUH!) TO MOISTURISE SKIN
Zelens Z-22 Absolute Face Oil is made up of 99% oils. A refreshing change from most expensive oils out there that claim to be natural and yet contain all kinds of silicones, fillers, & co.
The main oils here are:
- Perilla Frutescens Seed Oil: It’s derived from the seeds of Shiso, (Japanese mint), the richest plant source of omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids make it very moisturizing and soothing.
- Oryza Sativa (Rice) Germ/Bran Oil: Rich in B vitamins and vitamin E, it’s very moisturizing.
- Camellia Oleifera Seed Oil: Used for centuries by the Geishas of Kyoto, it is loaded with omega-9 fatty acids. It deeply moisturizes skin and boosts collagen production.
Unfortunately, it’s also loaded with citrus oils and lavender, which could irritate sensitive skin. Mine isn’t, so I can safely use it without side effects.
Anyways, oils work because they create a barrier on the skin that slows down water loss. Moisture is now forced to remain into the skin, plumping it up and hydrating it from within.
Related: The Complete Guide To Facial Oils
Need help creating the best skincare routine for you dry skin? Sign up to the newsletter below to receive the “Dry Skincare Routine Cheatsheet” (it includes product recommendations, too!).
Texture
Silky. Oily. Leaves no greasy residue behind.
Fragrance
Refreshing and energising.
How To Use It
It’s the last step of your skincare routine at night.
Performance & Personal Opinion
I try not to like products that smell good because the fragrance can be irritating. But man, Zelens is making it so hard. Z-22 Absolute Face Oil is one of my fave products from the brand…
(Keep in mind that my skin isn’t sensitive and isn’t bothered by essential oils. If it weren’t, I’d throw this in the bin).
I use it at night as the last step of my skincare routine to lock in all my serums. When I wake up in the morning, my skin is softer and smoother and has a luminous glow.
FYI, this for me is a winter step. Oils are fine in summer but it’s in winter, when skin needs extra protection from the cold, that they truly shine.
Why? In winter, your skin’s protective barrier is constantly under attack. Those freezing cold winds, artic temperatures, and dry heating indoors all conspire to break down this barrier and suck the moisture out of your skin.
There’s nothing like an oil to repair and strengthen this barrier, keeping skin safe in the cold. If your skin gets drier in the winter months (I know mine does), an oil is a life saver.
Who Is This For?
Dry skin.
Who Is This NOT For?
Oily and/or acne-prone skin.
Packaging
A see-through bottle with a grey cap. Chic and practical.
Does Zelens Z-22 Absolute Face Oil Live Up To Its Claims?
| CLAIMS | TRUE? |
|---|---|
| This multi-purpose silky-light formula provides a boost of intensive moisture, promotes elasticity and refines skin texture. | Mostly true. It doesn’t do much for elasticity. |
| Reinforces the skin’s natural barrier and helps protect against environmental damage. | True. All oils do this. |
| Leaves skin nourished, velvety soft and youthfully radiant. | True. |
Price & Availability
£70.00 at Cult Beauty and Feel Unique
Do You Need It?
If you have sensitive skin, stay away. But if you got dry skin that doesn’t get irritated by scented products, you’ll love this.
[penci_review]
Dupes & Alternatives
- Fresh Seaberry Moisturising Face Oil ($44.00)
- Herbivore Botanicals Rose Quartz Illuminating Body Oil (£38.00)
Ingredients
Perilla Ocymoides Seed OIl, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Germ/Bran Oil, Camellia Oleifera Seed Oil, Squalane, Cetearyl Ethylhexanoate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Isopropyl Myristate, Rosa Canina Fruit Oil, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia Peel Oil, Parfum (Fragrance), Tocopherol, Citrus Limon Peel Oil, Citrus Aurantium Leaf Oil, Litsea Cubeba Fruit Oil, Citrus Aurantium Peel Oil Distilled, Cymbopogon Citratus Leaf Oil, Elettaria Cardomomum Seed Oil, Lavandula Augustifolia Herb Oil, Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Oil, Pinus Pinaster Twig Leaf Oil, Pelargonium Graveolens Leaf Oil, Rosa Centifolia Flower Oil, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Citrus Aurantium Peel Oil Expressed, Citrus Aurantium Amara Flower Extract, Jasminum Officinale Flower Oil, Cistu
