Oil Your Face: Shu Uemura Skin Purifier

This is going to be weird. I mean why add oil to your face, right? Wrong. Do it. Shu Uemura's Skin Purifier is the answer.
At this stage you're probably thinking: so how did this all happen? Well let's just say unexpected sleepovers result in unexpected skincare routines - Noxzema was definitely involved (not to mention a weird toothbrush situation - don't ask).  
I've heard chatter about moisturizing oils for some time now (Rodin's Luxury Face Oil comes highly recommended) so I thought, why not. Carpe-that-Diem, etc. Besides I've always loved using La Mer's Radiant Serum which is kind-of oil-ish, I guess. After gently applying a few drops of Shu Uemura's Skin Purifier to my face in small circular motions I was impressed. My skin had a definite glow and felt beyond smooth without leaving any oily residue. Absorption complete, I finished the whole process off with Kiehl's Ultimate UV Shield SPF - which coincidentally is oil-free (I'm guessing a more-is-more approach doesn't apply to this situation). 

And it gets weirder. While researching for this post I discovered that the Skin Purifier is actually a make-up cleanser, which leads me to conclude the following: whatever works, works. Don't argue the oil, no matter what. 

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Aesop Parsley Seed Anti-Oxidant Hydrator

There's been a re-shuffle on my bathroom shelf, and Aesop's Parsley Seed Anti-Oxidant Hydrator has emerged as king.

While this may come as a surprise (especially considering my past declarations of moisturizer-loyalty), people (and their skin) change. And change is good. Besides, a new season is upon us, so really there isn't a better time than the present to mix it-up (you know, carpe diem and all). Even if we're just talking moisturizers.

I recently discovered Aesop (via their newly launched mouthwash) and have been captivated ever since. For me it was all about their streamlined packaging, quirky quotes and recommended reading tips - all of which undoubtedly add a cool factor to my bathroom shelf. And while we all know never to judge a book by its cover, beneath Aesop's packaging lies a wealth of promise. That being said, let's get down to business.

Essentially Aesop's Parsley Seed range is nothing short of botanical bliss. The Anti-Oxidant Hydrator is the latest release in a string of Parsley Seed-centric products (which also includes a fantastic toner, fyi). Packed with a whole bunch of botanicals, essential oils and vitamins (including Provitamin B), the lightweight moisturizer leaves skin feeling supple, dewy and refreshed. Besides the signature extract, the hydrator features an array of core ingredients like white tea and willowherb - both of which serve to sooth and comfort (and we all need a little soothing and comforting from time-to-time, non?). 

And in semi-related news Henry David Thoreau once said, "it is only when we forget all our learning that we begin to know". Perhaps there's a subliminal mix-up-your-grooming-routine message in there somewhere.

Happy almost-Friday.

*The Parsley Seed Anti-Oxidant Hydrator is available online and in key stores on March 18th, and will retail for $65.