Aftelier Perfumes has got some serious flower power happening. If you Google too fast for organic body oils, you can easily miss these horticultural masterpieces handcrafted by the Mandy Aftel. It seems almost every mainstream brand from high-street retailers right through to smaller, niche labels are bridging organo-happy creatives in a bid to bring a bit of true individuality, exclusivity and authenticity back onto the body care scene. But, for Mandy, the passion has been a requited art for long over a decade. Her highly successful career as curator of natural essences and fragrances (Forbes listed Mandy as one of the top 7 bespoke perfumers in the world) has now earned her the prestigious Fifi award (the annual "fragrance Oscars"), a status usually reserved for corporate houses and obscure perfumers. Score one for the independents!

There are few greater thrills when trying on a new body oil. And, one such thrill is sampling an entire collection. Ready to break free from our serious and idealistic mores on what a body oil should be, Aftelier’s intoxicating assortment (all 5 of them) turned our sampling experience into an extraordinary sensory session. The unlikely juxtaposition of essences in her line of body oils are what set the collection apart. Forget what the artisans say, the most innovative of essence expressions emerge not from their labs, but organically from the way people covet the rare & exotic. And, we deeply admire any artist who breaks free from the rigorously classical line and order of things in life.

Each body oil is constructed within the moisturizing jojoba oil and fractionated coconut oil, both of which are closest in molecular structure to your skin's own natural sebum, making the body oil and its essences more readily absorbed into your skin. Fractionated coconut oil is acquired through a separation process where the non-chemical the smaller molecules of coconut oil (that remain liquid at room temperature) are separated out from the whole coconut oil resulting in lightweight oil. Because it’s not as weighty, it’s actually fully metabolized by the body, making it the preferred choice as carrier oil for essential oils as it will transport healthful ingredients through the body and serving muscles, nerve tissue, etc. Many artisans prefer this refined version to whole coconut oil, which tends to go rancid more quickly.

A bit about each:

• Chocolate Saffron Body Oil: Gourmand sweetness reigns in this intensely scented oil, which has a tightening effect from the astringent qualities of saffron.
• Lavender Ginger Body Oil: Here, ginger - rumoured to help treat cellulite and varicose veins - warms the comforting flecks of lavender.
• Patchouli Spice Body Oil: The indelible patchouli – known to treat acne, cracked, chapped skin – brings a musky darkness.
• Rose Body Oil: Billowy rose essences are comprised of 80% essential fatty acids, which work nicely to rehydrate dry skin and repair damaged skin cells of all sorts.
• Vetiver Mint Body Oil: The grassy vetiver is complemented perfectly with a perky mint to ease muscle aches and mental exhaustion.

There is so much choice with these oils. Not only do you need to choose your mood of the moment: sexy, fickle or merry, but you also need to decide whether to moisturize hair, body or even face and with which one. I tried the rose on my split ends, the lavender ginger on the soles of feet, and patchouli over my legs…and say…they work well for all uses.

The oils have an astonishing texture, just enough slip to be able to get a good massage action going and for it to absorb well, but not so greasy that it leaves an oily residue. Skin is left plumped and dewy, feeling softer and more hydrated after a few hours. The calming compositions are brilliantly mesmerizing as the veil of scents last much longer than that of other oils. At the end of my tutorial, I can identify my two faves—the Rose and the Patchouli Spice—but I still have not concluded which extravagance outshines the other. Always being partial to the profuse blossoms of roses, I was taken aback by the aromatically enigmatic oil – purely dense as if the darkest, most voluptuous petals were selected for the essence. No hybrid extracts were used here. Simply bewitching.

It's Aftelier’s diversity that truly distinguishes her blended oils from the mainstream ones; that, and the fact these aren’t oils in the generic sense — they’re oils of transcendence.

You’ve finally broke out of your romantic slump and landed a date with the newly moved-in hottie from downstairs. You jump out of the shower to grab your $80 special-occasion-only body oil, only to find the once sweet, sexy, can’t-take-your-hands-off-me scent is...not. Hmmm, is it nuttier than I remember? Maybe it's those undernotes or something coming up for air? Rather than waste time debating whether or not you can make it work for the evening, take a deep breath, throw it out and vow to become a more informed huile-ista.

Oils, like any other natural ingredient, can only maintain their freshness for so long before going bad. The bitter, musty smell of rancid oil is unmistakable—if you’ve never had the opportunity to experience it, well done—you’re taking care of your skin and using up products regularly!

For those of us with an undeniable obsession to horde GWP freebie creams and/or pricey body products for special nights, here’s why we shouldn’t:

Oxidation...
Oxidation is simply the chemical reaction that happens between an oil molecule and oxygen. Doesn’t sound so bad, right? Wrong.

[Quick pre-cursor]
When we’re born, our delicate, damage-free baby skin comes into contact with free radicals found in the air and begins the oxidation process in our skin. And by “oxidation process” we mean...aging. Yep! It starts from the second we come into existence. (On a side note—antioxidants, which we hear ever so much about, fight free radicals and actually help slow down the aging process.)

[Back to oil speak]
Those same pesky free radicals that give us wrinkles attack the oils in our precious creams and body products, and it’s when they take over that oils become rancid & malodorous. Here’s the kicker: Oxidation causes a complete and permanent change in the base oil molecules. Basically—once completely oxidized, the moisturizing & skin-saving qualities for which you paid top dollar are now ineffective.< Good news!
Some oils resist oxidation better than others. Coconut, for example, is one of the most stable oils on the market. It rarely turns rancid and delivers its skin-softening benefits even after you’ve left it sitting on the shelf for months. (P.S.—it’s also a natural antioxidant!) Other fruit & nut oils vary in stability, and some oils (read: Vitamin E) are even used as a natural preservative for their less-resistant counterparts.

The low-down? Many products come with an expiration or ‘best by’ date. Listen to them. If you’re wondering whether or not you can still use that soothing lavender oil that came in the gift basket from Aunt Phyllis 3 years ago - don’t. Toss it out and treat yourself to a new, fresh, un-oxidized bottle that will nourish your skin while turning heads as your intoxicating scent floats by.

We asked the always insightful founder of Infiore, Julie Elliott, what you can do to prevent current faves from turning murky:


Store those precious huile bottles in hidden dark corners or drawers, but never in the bathroom. Or, select oils that have been carefully packaged into dark bottles, which guard against the oil from becoming...impotent.

Gone are the days of granny’s goopy gunk. More women are opting for at-home facials, as seen by the influx of spa-like products found easily at your favourite stockists. These products have been revamped in quality and are easy to use, unlike those mucky mud masks from yesteryear, which often left your skin burning & red from supposed mineral enriched formulations. But, a rare crop of treatment masks incidentally use essential oils to nurture skin while detoxing grimy pores. If your needs include a cure for blotchy skin, clogged pores or full-on break outs then Kate Somerville Clearing Mask ($45) fits the bill.

Much more than a deep-cleansing treatment, this kaolin-based/oil-rich mask actively re-energizes and brightens the skin as it draws out impurities. Skin is serenaded with an impressive list of components hails with one unorthodox ingredient:

• Kaolin clay: to purge skin of environmental toxins and excess oil
• Linseed oil: to strengthen the skin and reduces rednessArgan kernel oil: to regulate sebum productionSesame seed extract: to deeply moisturize, lift, tone and firm the skin
• Lavender oil: to soothe the senses
• Retinyl palmitate: to penetrate deeper layers of the skin to reach & strengthen collagen and elastin (aka the all-around favourite, retinol)

For many spa-goers, eliminating skin stress is what it's all about, and that's the way this mask works for me. Used once a week, a clay mask will help to balance your skin and prevent your glands from becoming over stimulated. But, it’s the organic oils which tenderly feed the skin with high-grade essentials to leave skin glowy & plumped.The nifty packaging is a vast improvement over glass jars. The tube meets with a twisty top that dispenses the mask easily without wasting extraneous product or drying out the rest inside. Intuitively, it’s a quirky paragon: using a clay mask to clean out pores and using oils to put others back in. But, it works. So much so, I actually stopped visiting my aesthetician since my at-home slather time allows me to...blog!

She cultivates lavender herbs by hand from an organic farm in Silver Lake. She is known for her straight-talking, no-nonsense approach to making 100% organic beauty treats from time-honoured techniques handed down from generation to generation. She has turned a once passionate hobby into a lucrative business, delighting fanatics with the unfussy ingredients, and helped further a class of unsung companies that do things right. She is the founder of Wild Beauty, Felecia Scott.

Despite trailing economic conditions, the market for naturally produced cosmetics is growning rapidly, as consumers are more aware of the possible dangers of synthetic chemicals in cosmetics, as well as the benefits of natural and organic ingredients. In the U.S. alone, the natural personal care market is predicted to reach $6.7 billion in 2015, forecasts Kline & Co. An interesting shift as masses move away from middling beauty in favour of niche brands & pop up shops, both of which create bespoke treatments. Scott represents this slew of entrepreneurs, who understand just how to adeptly bridge the exquisite norms of nature – essential & botanical oils - with technological advances.

And, it's this dedication - to comfort not flash - that inspires the Wild Beauty Lavender Vanilla Infused Body Oil ($20). Crafted from nearly 100 years of expertise shared by Grandma Mamie, the body oil is a delicate example of restraint & simplicity. Herb hunting has its innocence. Scott soaks her meticulously handpicked lavender herbs in a buttery olive oil for weeks before adding pure lavender & vanilla essences, giving the oil a tremendous fluidity.  Steady saturation allows the olive oil & lavender herbs to synthesize at nature’s ease. It’s this sense of traditionalism that shines through the invigorating scent when applied. The imparting aroma is so lush & giddy, it makes you feel like you've spent a long afternoon in a lovely posh summery garden. And, now some skin speak. Adding olive oil to your nighttime skin-care regimen helps to soften and moisturize the skin as you sleep, reports the Healthy Skin Care website. More on olive oil:

• When mixed in equal portions with vinegar & water, it can also help to lighten skin discolorations as a mild exfoliant. 
• Virgin olive oil helps to dissolve comedones (i.e. whiteheads & blackheads), while regulating sebum without clogging pores. 
• Virgin olive oil also contains high amounts of antioxidants, especially vitamin E, according to the American Chronicle. When topically applied, olive oil helps to safeguard cellular structures of the skin from free radical damage that can increase aging, acne and other skin annoyances.

People want to feel a sense of discovery when they buy something. Cheers to Wild Beauty, who has found ways to make old crafts contemporary & coveting.

Pratima Love Oil ($24) is like a sensory passage to India. The oil, much like the country, boasts a hodgepodge of Eastern spice influences: cinnamon to increase circulation; clove to strengthen the immune system; cardamom to invigorate and warm the body. In a parallel harmony, these oils permeate all 7 layers of skin to instantly to provide herbaceous nutrients to feed the skin and soul. And, collectively they allow you to experience in the ageless practice of Ayurveda: the use of sumptuous oils to immerse the mind, body, and spirit with divine elements.

Those who have mastered their dosha analysis and downward-facing dog are turning to unconventional brands to give stressed skin an incarnated cushy comfort. Dr. Raichur (Ayurvedic doctor & classically trained chemist, botanist, & aesthetician) has been practicing Ayurveda for over 30 years, and is internationally recognized for her acute sense of diagnosing doshas. These are the 3 fundamental energies that exist within each of us and more often than not are imbalanced by life’s aggressors (daily life can bring a gaggle of stresses from work, marriage, sex and even beauty conundrums). Specialists identify individual needs and tailor individual treatment plans based on you...and only you. She introduced the concept in 1980 at Pratima Ayurvedic Skincare Spa – Manhattan’s stress-busting spot that practices the 5,000 year-old art of Indian medicine in a modern spa setting.

Pratima Love Oil – with a powerful stirring of mineral rich essences (calcium, iron, phosphorus, sodium, potassium, as well as vitamins A and C) intermixed throughout the emollient sweet almond oil – is a responsible luxury. Its ingredients are certified organic and sourced directly from sustainable farms in India, This oil sinks in so quickly that I can apply it straight on after getting out of the shower in the morning and dressed straight after. It leaves a subtle and relaxing scent on my skin thanks to its de-stressing blend of lush lavender, velvety rose petals and creamy vanilla, which have been kept in tact to give each new pouring a symphony of potent flavors that compete yet complement. Together, they make for one pure, mystical frenzy of a body oil. Not a scaly patch in sight.

Use the oil to bring a divine wellness to your heart and help further an inner flow toward brahmacharya, the exalted state where must learn to shun all vulgar people and past times. It’ll swiftly set your karma to all things right again.

Call it love at first whiff. The peachy-hued oil atop my vanity table is enticed with suggestions of apricots, grapes, and pomegranates. It's flattered with Vitamin E, Coenzyme Q10 & salicylic acid. It's free of parabens, sodium lauryl sulfate & other harsh chemicals and has been hand-made without mass production for over half a century. Its origins hail from the flowering fields of Hungary, where skin care traditions still maintain a legendary pedigree. The oil? Eminence Organics Apricot Body Oil ($29).

The apricot kernel oil is often used as a carrier oil, however, here it’s found as both an essence and as a base. I discovered this oil during a recent visit to the swanky Spa Montage. After a gruffish vichy scrub & shower (well worth the time), the therapist layered the Apricot Body Oil for a skin-smoothing touch. But, the scent had me at hello.

One gripe made by most huile-istas is how they wish for a deftly scented body oil. For those harboring this perennial obsession for fragranced treatments, here is your the dream realized. The apricot is not a hopelessly gawky wallflower here. The oil has a natural lustiness and spontaneity about it. It’s light & sparkling, much like it’s namesake luscious, opulent fruit. The scent was so indelible, it compares to nothing to what I’ve tried to date. Best of Green Award winner for the best environmental practices in the industry, the purity of the 100% organic ingredients shines through Eminence’s products.

And, what ingredients they are! The roster of oils almost teeters between scientific and sublime. For starters, pomegranate seed oil happens to be rich in extremely rich in rare essential fatty acids called punicic acids (approximately 65%) and other EFAs. A new study (from the University of Michigan Medical School, published in the February 2006 Journal of Ethnopharmacology) shows that pomegranate seed oil stimulates keratinocyte proliferation, promoting regeneration of the epidermis. Because pomegranates are also loaded with antioxidants, you get a double dose of nourishment, moisturization and improved skin elasticity. Pomegranate seed oil can also be effective in treating dry skin ailments (i.e. eczema, psoriasis) and splotchy sunburned skin.

Added to this is grape seed oil, which has mildly astringent qualities, and helps to tighten and tone the skin. In the background is a biodynamic powerhouse: the supercharged combination of Vitamin A, Ester C, Vitamin E, Coenzyme Q10, which synergistically help to protect the body from free radical damage (one of the causes of aging at a cellular level). COQ10 is one of those rare ingredients that can help reverse signs of aging by stimulating an uprising of collagen. It’s a heavier oil, one suited for post-spa treatments or even for at home-waxing sessions. We love how even the day after, our legs still feel treated without the need to re-apply.

Profundity in an oil that forever banishes the stereotype of apricots as the flirty, summery fruit-of-the-moment. No, it's time to junk that thought. This oil has a lush sensuality about it. I won’t be returning for a vichy shower anytime soon. The Apricot Body Scrub ($48) with its raw sugar cane juice now beckons...

It comes as no surprise…it's known as the Queen of Jasmine flowers. I’m in love with its deception, its lilt, & its modesty. With jasmine, as in so many things, the sensory experience has always been a delicate balance between a desire for exoticism and the need for a sweet, seductive play with scent. It’s also no surprise to see the proliferation of jasmine oils in the beauty space for its timeless loveliness.

Because of the quantity of petals needed to make jasmine’s essential oil, it is rare and highly sought after. It was extremely valuable oil during ancient times. Because it was thought to have aphrodisiac powers for many centuries it was used in different cultures for a myriad ceremonies. The Chinese used jasmine in sick rooms to cleanse the air. The Egyptians used it to relieve nervous disorders, insomnia & headaches. The Chinese still drink jasmine tea on a daily basis, and in Indonesia it is used as a garnish to food. And, in India? Well, there isn’t a Mughal anecdote, a lover’s legend, a Bollywood entrapment without the flicker of jasmine. Wherever the flower is sourced, jasmines are picked at night (an experienced picker can pick 10,000-15,000 blossoms per night), when the aroma is most intense.

And, intense is my adoration. Red Flower Indian Jasmine Organic Bath, Body & Massage Oil ($18) has a permanent place on my vanity table. And, should earn the same revere on yours...

Here comes a cosmic flux of jasmine flowers, jasmine sambac, tangerine, neroli and ylang ylang. Entwined within this exquisitely ornate beauty of an oil is the reliable jojoba oil. There is a subtle erotic tension captured within the oil is second to none. The abundance of jasmine expertly plays off the calm of ylang ylang and twist of neroli. It's an impeccable body treatment, so divine in its making, that I even used it over my face to carry me off to a dreamy slumber. The mere 1.9 oz bottle is both exasperating and exhilarating, as if you’re lucky to score a bottle, you’ll be out of it sooner than you’ll know. Skinwise, jasmine oil tones dry, greasy, irritated and sensitive skin, increases elasticity and is often used to assist with stretch marks and to reduce scarring. It’s also proven to increase cell turnover, which may explain the reduction in discolourations. Jasmine oil brings a high content of esters, which make up about 70% of the oil. Aside from its notorious reputation as an aphrodisiac, these esters have potent anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties. So, yes, blemished or nicked skin will enjoy the fast absorbing oil. Red flower’s resplendent oil has a pillowy heart with a clean aesthetic. There are so many other oils which are so much more easier to love…but, Red Flower’s warming jasmine has stolen my heart.

June Jacobs is a woman of many talents. She’s the co-founder of the scientific skin line Peter Thomas Roth, has an exquisite sense of all-natural ingredients, and uses this innate knowledge of the skincare industry to bridge the gap between eco-chic and luxury. It’s no wonder we're thrilled to see her namesake line of skincare carry a dry oil, as we’re often disappointed with the fact that most mainstream brands don’t even bother to create one.

The sultry Vanda Orchid Dry Oil ($45) is a light yet rich, finely-textured oil. With genuine orchid, sweet violet, and rose extracts entwined throughout a decadent peach oil, the dry oil leaves a veil of cheerful vanilla to wonderfully revitalize skin. The dry oil is also packed with exotic-sounding oils that we've never heard of – clary and rosemary leaf oils. This is that kind of deliciously smooth oil you’d want to spray on before sliding on some black stockings for an evening of illicit pleasure.

Repetitiveness and discipline are the secrets of treating your skin with exquisite oils. Here, the peach kernel oil is the star ingredient. Peach kernel oil, as its name implies, is obtained from the kernel, or nut, of the peach fruit. The penetrating nature of peach kernel oil helps prevent serious dehydration, smoothes wrinkles and encourages elasticity and suppleness in all skin types. It’s especially nourishing for sensitive or inflamed skin (such as eczema, psoriasis or acneic conditions) and for delicately mature complexions. The orchid's tonic effects help to cleanse and tighten the pores of the skin, as orchids fight free radicals and have astringent attributes.

A splashy skin supplement with a classic scent catapult this oil to what surely will become a staple on your vanity table.

Is that a thin layer of dust I see on my slimy hydrating mask?  When was the last time I gave myself an at-home facial? Am I getting [gasp] smile lines from laughing without restraint? Yes...it happens to even the most dedicated huile-istas. You’ve tried oil after oil, sniffed more glass flacons than imagined, and even toss the older versions onto your hair for a quick fix. You are officially suffering from oil fatigue.

Oils are the new serum verging on the cliché. The versatility of multi-faceted face & body oils are enjoying a new golden age. Some are light; others are cloying. Some smell great; others are pure enough to eat. If you’re the type who’d rather covet a product for a weekly treatment instead of daily use, Suki Delicate Hydrating Oil ($24.95) makes for a rewarding investment.

I emphasize weekly intentionally because I believe, after years of diligent, bibulous research on skin care, that the only truly outstanding products deliver spa-like results. Suki is of that mold. Skillfully crafted of 100% pure vegan ingredients, you’ll see gentle chamomile, anti-inflammatory arnica and antioxidant-rich rose oils balanced with apricot kernel oil. Arnica essential oil is used in scar creams to promote healing and lessen scarring, according to the Nutritional Supplements Health Guide. This makes it ideal to use for acneic skin, which may leave discolorations from those DIY pimple popping sessions. You know who you are…

This gentle, botanical blend cushions your skin, leaving it feeling supple and luxuriously hydrated. Exfoliate with a grainy scrub, steam face for 10 minutes to detox pores of any gunk, and apply the hydrator to intensify any moisturizer you’ll smooth atop. When you get a whiff of the woodsy scent, remember to….r-e-l-a-x.

I love uncovering lesser known brands, which allows me to be surrounded by some amazing niche oils and to have befriended several aromatherapists. They’re industrious, deeply attached to their craft and fiercely loyal to their consumers. I find they often favour the quality of a superb product over mass marketing. Which means you’ll likely end up with higher-grade oils and extracts (comfrey in Suki's infusion) for a better price.

“I've got such an oily T-zone!”

“I have to blot my face an hour after putting on my foundation!”

“I can feel the slick of shine when I use an oily moisturizer!

Oily, shine, greasy. Whatever your skin’s ailment, the myths associated with oil-producing are a dime a dozen. One of the biggest misconceptions about oily and acne-prone skin is that it doesn't need moisture. But we’re here to say, the exact opposite holds true.

Those with oily skin frequently turn to products that strip skin of its natural oils. These ladies will seek out anything and everything oil-free, from sunscreen to foundation, from powders to blushes. But, it’s here that skin starts producing even more oil in a struggle to maintain a natural balance. By using nutrient-rich oils on oily skin, you send it a message that there is sufficient hydration, so the sebaceous glands can relax and stop the cycle of overproducing oil. Acne-prone skin responds well to oils that boast essential fatty acids or are vitamin-rich. Did you know that acneic skin has naturally low levels of fatty acids or oils? For you, seek out oils with a spiky freshness from omega-3 and omega-6 to make up for that deficiency.

Beauty oils. Not an illusion.

A sunscreen has some basic practical requirements: it needs to be portable, have an SPF of at least 30, not leave a white-ish cast, and blend seamlessly into skin. It also has to be durable enough to withstand high humidity & heat, and wear well under liquid foundations. If you don’t have a feel-good sunscreen on your vanity table yet, Lavanila Healthy Sun Screen SPF 40 Face Cream ($28) is an excellent choice.

If sensitive skin has been the bane of your existence, here is a sunscreen to alleviate that inner skin stress. The usual zinc & titanium dioxide sun protectants are impeccably balanced with the effective coconut oil and shea butter additives. Here, the highly revered shea butter is preferred for its protective properties from harsh environment (such as the hot sun) and dehydration (from loss of active moisture). But, we also found inconspicuously hidden in this formulation is a healthy dose of Provitamin B5. A 2002 "Journal of Dermatological Treatment" study noted that Provitamin B5 enhances the repair of the skin barrier while reducing inflammation. The synergistic effect of both oil & vitamins helps prevent dry patches while protecting from environmental aggressors.

We like how the texture has got a fresher feel than most creamy versions. We also found no trace of grease or shine even a few hours after wearing it, but don’t hope for a matte feel. ‘Dewy to the touch’ finish makes this a relief for those using dehydrating topicals such as Retin-A. And, tsk, tsk…don’t forget to protect the delicate skin on the neck, chest, and even backs of hands while driving.

Breaking the norm of chemically-based SPFs, this is an imaginative solution to stodgy sunscreens with that dreadful sunblock scent.

Everyone gets a bout of pesky dry skin. It's one annoying problem. That’s why oils and balms exist. To shed those peeling patches, crusty corners or flaky spots. Whether you get dry skin unintentionally (a mid-day romp on the beach without SPF) or with reason (that post-35 chemical peel), an all-purpose balm should address the tight, itchiness with a moisturizing ease. But, most don’t thanks to unnecessary synthetic dyes, fillers, & other nasty chemicals.

But, here’s my problem: I’m what you might call a balm buff. Some people can’t stand the slither of salve. Me, I don’t feel refreshed until every nook n’ cranny of my bod has some treatment cream/oil/balm seeping into its pores. Period. Worse, I often end up using pricier face balms on my hands and feet as I can never find a balm that does what it promises to do. That was until I got my hands on Lush Ultrabalm ($12).

Hand made & packaged in a utilitarian tin container, Ultrabalm looks like butterfat but smells incredibly fresh. I immediately slathered on the greasy cream and became an instant convert. Within seconds, the dense cream melted onto my tootsies. And, yes, you get shine. The you-know-this-is-going-in-way-deep kind. Finally! A reason to drench my cracked, dry, rough heels and cover with cotton socks for an overnight treatment.

For the price, this is one ultra-rich, luxurious balm. For sensitive skin types, Ultrabalm is for you because it’s created from blended candelilla wax (a vegan alternative to beeswax) and juicy jojoba oil. In unison, these create a protective barrier on the skin to lock in precious moisture. But, it’s the delicate rose wax that soothes post-waxed/threaded/peeled problematic dry spots. In 12 sleepy hours, the emulsion quietly improved texture and suppleness by diminishing my tight, dry skin on feet. Lush moisturizers have been intentionally formulated to not only put much needed moisture into skin, but also have humectant properties to help the skin maintain its water balance. No preservatives, additives, chemicals, or petroleum added for longevity. Just 3 cleverly curated organic ingredients to make one marvelous balm.

PS - to Reggie (whose mischievous mug shot is stickered on the bottom as proof of his fine handiwork)…super size this stuff. Please.

It’s serene. It’s ethereal. It’s splendid. It’s Nars Body Glow II ($59). Not to be confused with its bronzy predecessor, the original Body Glow, the sequel is gets almost to a near-perfect status in my book. Well, probably because I’m such a gardenia freak. Here is a body oil rife with possibilities.

First off, the heavenly scented Monoi de Tahiti oil is manufactured in Tahiti from pure Tahitian coconut oil and Tiare flowers. Saturating the creamy Tiare petals in refined coconut oil for about 15 days creates a delicately balanced treatment oil. It's this maceration process, which allows for those perfunctory essential fatty acids to be extracted. Intuitive in nature, the velvety Tiare flower has been deeply etched in the French Polynesian territory for generations and is considered one of the most important plants of the traditional pharmacopoeia. This blending of two indigenous ingredients is almost ceremonious by most standards. Nars upholds this islander tradition by including a stem of the floral essence within the sturdy glass bottle. The oil is also stabilized with Vitamin E oil to prevent rancidity and it often contain added fragrance or natural extracts. Monoi oil is extraordinarily safe, since it doesn't cause any skin reaction, and carries no risk of allergies. In fact, historically and even today, Tahitian woman will traditionally massage their babies with monoi oil in the morning and at night.

The specially cultivated oil is nicely attenuated to the angelic scent of gardenia, and has an airy feel to it – so weightless, I used it on my face and found it absorbed within seconds. And, its this breathtakingly sheer gardenia scent that made for an deeply nourishing hair mask, easy on the nose. I didn't even feel the greasy strands atop. Warm up gently and leave for 30 min before rinsing.

Uncluttered in composition, Body Glow II is a lush, translucent oil – splendid in sweetness – for luminous skin all around.

When it comes to chemically loaded beauty treatments, nothing intimidates you more then the unpronounceable list on a bottle of polish. With the rise of organo-happy brands, it’s no surprise the ubiquitous nail polish is one of the last products on the market to be recreated with natural ingredients. Let’s face it – those synthetics are what give the polish its lasting power. But, no one says you can’t get a polish AND can keep your nail beds and cuticles squeaky clean. And, this is how Dr.’s Remedy Enriched Nail Polish ($17) can help.

In addition to the promising Vitamins C & E, these polishes are also fortified with tree tea oil, well known for its antiviral, antifungal, antibacterial, and antiseptic properties. If you pop by your local nail salon, you know to be wary of re-used tools, which may easily spread bacteria and fungi. But, Dr.’s Remedy’s sleek polishes curb any dermatophytes (read: icky fungi) from attacking delicate skin around those tenacious cuticles.

No quirky greens or trendy yellows in this line of polishes. With a wardrobe of classic colours to complement all skin tones, the brand also offers the requisite base & topcoats to give you a mani/pedi that will last through your freewheeling summer jaunts. Our fave shade for summer is the Deep Red, a high-gloss vampish burgundy, which gleans nicely through our gladiator sandals.

Go on girl, get nailed.

Flowers Face Balm ($21) has no tricks up its sleeve. The 11 simple, organic ingredients (hand blended, packed into a no-nonsense apothecary jar, labeled with an endearing retro-chic print) give you one epic face treatment that doesn’t occlude skin’s natural regenerative work. The opaque, very dense balm with its faint flowery smell is a serious fixer-upper for distressed skin in need of repair.

The all-time favourite coconut oil (structured with emollient beeswax) reigns in supremacy here. The oil is high in monounsaturated fatty acids, which have been shown to have antioxidant properties with potential benefits against skin aging. As we age, we produce less and less oil and our skin dries and loses luster. The use of coconut oil results in the return of optimal skin health. But, it’s the quiet ylang ylang essential oils that immediately struck up a qualified love from us. No over-processed organic extracts or imitation fragrances here. Just pure, sweet, wholesome goodness to fortify skin’s natural barrier against the loss of precious moisture. The fragility of herbal basics, Gillerman has learned, trumps lab synthetics and honesty trumps nameless marketing. It’s the kind of authentic apothecary that promotes a healthy plushness, which has brand devotees awaiting for new product release after release.

Use the balm sparingly over any topical, serum or even moisturizer to intensify your every day skincare system. Very quickly, you’ll see just how very little goes along very far. We got so carried away with the stuff, we spent half the jar getting our tootsies ready for summer strappies…thankfully, the astute Ms. Gillerman pointed out there’s a body version of this glorious emulsion.

Oh, snap!

Psst…gloss has oil?

Shhh…yes, some do…and some…

Some?

Some…well say they do, but some have MORE.

Chappy lips seek out topical moisture like a Jenny Craig reject, falling off the wagon after spotting a sale on Oreos. In a fit for desperation, those dry puckers may opt for an icky Chapstick, but we say…WHY? When you can use glosses fortified with natural oils, why slap on a layer of inert wax? While we don’t ostracize those products that contain a a few droplets of some highly touted, trendy oil, we do rush straight to our vanity tables the ones where an essential and/or botanical oil is listed within the top 5 ingredients. Why, again? Glad you asked! Because the higher the concentration of an ingredient, the higher up it will be listed on the packaging.

So, slick your lippies with Philosophy Lip Shines ($10) in Raspberry since the sprightly sunflower seed oil will help perennially dried pouts retain moisture thanks to the oil’s high Vitamin E content. Pair the warmed pink gloss over any neutral lip liner for all day, sheer glimmer.

If you’re ready to abandon those waxy, pocket-sized sticks, here’s a simple gloss middling with high-def shine.

No one expects you to give up your day creams and nighttime serums. It’s simply unrealistic. But, adding a beauty oil to your daily skincare regime can amp up your anti-aging efforts. Specialized in hard-to-garner, enriched ingredients, take note of these do's and don'ts to fully nurture in what promises to be a multi-sensory, highly nutritious way to soften skin.

• Do remember to use body oils on tops & bottoms of your feet and post-shaved legs for an ultra-smoothing treatment.
• Do consult a physician if you are pregnant and are concerned about specific essential/botanical oils, particularly within the first trimester.
• Do add a drop or two of your favourite face oil to your foundation/cream blushes and create a dewy finish without shine.
• Do heat up an ounce of body oil, massage into your roots, leave for 30-60 minutes, and rinse with a clarifying shampoo for a monthly, at-home hair treatment.
• Do store your favourite oils in a cool, dark spot, as these treatments will have a very long shelf life without losing their potency.

Some say:

• Don’t use body oils if you are allergic to natural essences & oils, such as peppermint, fennel, basil, birch, nutmeg, rosemary, sage, and tarragon oils.
• Don’t forget to wash your hands before removing your contact lenses.
• Don’t use citrus, angelica, and bergamot oils without a heavy duty SPF over skin, as these are photosensitizing and may lead to splotchy skin.
• Don’t use your face oil under any topical treatments, such as Retin-A or glycolic moisturizers.
• Don’t mix your face & beauty oils, as it’s not as much fun as when using them on their own...

There is that moment when you try a new oil or sniff a new fragrance that you believe you’re looking at the beginning of some untamed beauty. If you close your eyes, and you can almost waft the heavy air of organic essences that dots the Portfofino cityscape of Meditteranean florals and bespoke fragrance. This was our moment when we tried this. Like a veil of silk, Tom Ford’s Neroli Portfofino Body Oil ($70) is such an aromatic experience down that dreamy memory lane.

It’s a body oil for the luxe set. In it, you’ll uncover some profoundly serious Neroli, zesty grapeseed, and full-bodied olive fruit oils expertly blended with date seed extract. Ford takes the best of these ingredients to make an oil much more than the sum of its parts. The date seed extract is highly favoured to stimulate collagen synthesis as the seeds are rich in triterpenic derivatives. Say what? News to us, too. There’s a very rich herbal quality to this oil with lavender, ambrette seeds, and angelica root. Softly scented with orange blossoms surrounding a woody core, the sylph-ish oil has a classic finish leaving behind no trace of shine.

If you’re a fan of Neroli's depth and scent, here is your bastion of floral happiness.

Poor you...imagine your post-waxed/post-threaded/post-peeled skin, one which was left raw, itchy, flaky, or red from the promise to define, plump, soften, rejuvenate, hide spots, even out texture, and reconstruct collagen. Who knew beauty almost always follows the beastly look of splotchy skin? With the recent rage of hair removal and skin sizzlers, the first thing you’re told is to avoid any harsh skin care treatments post-treatment. Abrasive cleansers, exfoliating toners, and glycolic moisturizers are put on pause until skin returns to its fuss-free smoothness. Since we know you won’t ditch your oil treatment, why not amp up its results with Kahina Giving Beauty Toning Mist ($36)?

With the witch hazel trend happily behind us, the prize jewels of this alcohol-free toning mist are: aloe vera, rose flower water, sodium hyaluronate, alfafa seed, white tea, willow bark, and aspen bark extracts. Sensitive skin will enjoy this transformative airy mist made with 91% certified organic essences, which will actually help your oil-based treatments penetrate more deeply into the skin for best results.

The hallmark ingredient of this toner is the supercharged sodium hyaluronate (or hyaluronic acid), which is the key to maintaining skin moisturization. It’s a natural component in skin and serves to keep skin tissues soft and supple. But aging and environmental stress can deplete skin’s natural HA. Topical use of HA promotes moisture retention and visoelasticity. With a small molecular weight, HA can penetrate into dermis layer, fully combine with water, and promote nutrient absorption. Now, couple this with the ethereal rose water to tighten pores, soothe and gently restore the skin's pH. And, weave in an amalgam of mineral rich, anti-inflammatory extracts and you have one intoxicating elixir to soften skin without the harshness of acid-based toners. Make a special note of the active Alfalfa Seed extract, which works much like a retinol to increase skin cell turnover. All in all, the purifying toner promotes a natural healing after any aggressive treatment. Pairs perfectly well with Kahina's eye serum. Speaking of promoting, we simply adore how the socially responsible company, Kahina Giving Beauty, donates 25% of profits to the Berber women of Moroccan cooperatives. The money raised will be dedicated to programs that improve the lives of these women and their families.

Perfectly packaged in an exquisite spray bottle, the toning mist is light, fluid, and uncluttered in composition. An earthy toner that helps temperamental skin get back to a simply glorious one.