If you follow me on Social media you would have seen that I recently popped into the L’Occitane concept store at the V&A Waterfront for a skin hydration test. The test – which took less than 2 minutes – revealed me to have a normal/dry hydration level.
Based on this result, L’Occitane and Rubybox sent me some goodies from the Aqua Réotier range to review and assist with getting these levels up to a more moisturised level.
The Hydration test:
How does it work? Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis, the same method used to measure body fat is used.
Basically, the pen-like device is placed on the cheek, preferably the right side, as this is the side that would have more exposure to the elements, like the sun while driving etc. The sensor sends an electric current through the skin thus yielding a result. If the skin is hydrated there will be little resistance to the current and it will pass easily therefore giving a higher percentage. If dehydrated there will be more resistance, resulting in a lower reading. It then reads and records your hydration level percentage. Easy peasy!
The scale works as follows:
Between 0 to 40% (considered dry)
Between + 40% to 70% (considered normal)
Above 70% to 100% Moisturised
I did the test a few times to check the accuracy of the reading, and found the range to vary but stayed within a difference of about 7% (eg: I didn’t have a reading of 43 and then a reading of 60). Just like with most bioelectrical impedance analysis devices it’s not 100% accurate but does give you an indication of where you are at. My result ranged from 43% to 48% so just in the normal range but still a little on the dry side.
I have been using the Aqua Réotier range for 2 weeks now and popped into the Canal Walk L’Occitane store for a follow-up test and this time my result range was: 54% to 61%, which I’m pretty chuffed with considering it’s only been 2 weeks and generally product effects are only really seen after about 4 weeks of use, so this is great.
The Aqua Réotier range:
The range is formulated with 3 key ingredients, the star of the show being the calcium-rich waters from Provence’s Réotier spring – hence the name – which is said to contain 10x more calcium than any other thermal water.
These ingredients being:
Calcium – Helps maintain skin barrier and retain moisture within the skin.
Hyaluronic Acid– The hydration go to. Is a superior skin-restoring ingredient, naturally produced by the body. Its main function being, to retain water to keep tissue well lubricated. It attracts and locks in moisture within the epidermis to hydrate and plump the skin. and is capable of holding up to 1,000 times its own weight in water, making it an optimal hydrator for all skin types.
Glycerin– Glycerin is a humectant present in all natural lipids. And is a skin-replenishing and restoring ingredient found naturally in skin, which helps to establish normal balance and hydration.
Water Gel Cleanser:
I found this to be a gentle cleansing gel which lightly foamed leaving my skin feeling clean but not stripped. I really love this cleanser and it is definitely one I look forward to using. Only washing my face with a face wash once a day I use mine after my first cleanse at night. In the mornings, I normally just rinse off of the products from the night before.
Price: 195 ml at R345,00.
Moisture Prep Essence:
Essences have not always been on our radar but have recently become quite popular, becoming an essential step of the hydrating ritual. This one, like most, has a runny, slightly viscous consistency. I use it morning and night and gently pat the essence into my skin after cleansing. I sometimes repeat this step 2 or 3 times if I’m feeling particularly dry. Once absorbed, after about 10 -15 mins, I apply my serums or retinol.
Price: 150ml at R395
Ultra Thirst-Quenching Gel:
I love the way this feels on my skin, it’s lightweight but still leaves me feeling adequately moisturised, my skin looks and feels fresh and glowy. I normally apply this last, after my serums and before my SPF (during the day) and all products layer well with no pilling. It is said that the gel has thousands of micro-bubbles that are released after use and act as a magnet for thirsty skin, recharging it with hydration.
Price: 50ml at R495
Ultra Thirst-Quenching Cream:
The cream is great and had a similar feel to the gel except that it was slightly more velvety, being a cream, although wasn’t at all heavy and again left my skin looking and feeling great. I applied this just as I did the gel and it layered well with other products. The cream is smoother than the gel and fits all skin types that need that extra pop of soft hydration perfectly.
Price: 50ml at R495
Overall thoughts:
I loved reviewing these products, the range is great and has a very refreshing, gentle ocean-kissed scent, L’Occitane know luxury and this is most definitely another luxurious product, great as an introduction to the brand or for those wanting to boost hydration levels.
If you have any questions or have any similar product suggestions, pop them in the comments.
Ta-ta for now xx
