Skincare Worthy Of Your Attention
my most loved products, how many times I’ve repurchased them and what I’m eyeing next
I recently saw a TikTok of someone sharing how many bottles of skin care they had recently repurchased and it had me wondering the same. Since moving to Paris, I’ve been solidifying a new skincare routine. I’ve had some luck with a few products, while others have proved tricky to replace. It had me wondering, why is it so hard to find replacements for some of my US favorites?
It dawned on me that some of these products have been a core part of my routine for over 5 years! I thought I’d highlight those with you. I’m also including a few of my newer favorites that I’m already planning on repurchasing.
My Tried and True
It’s important to note that my skin falls within the “normal to dry skin” range. While I think most of these could work for anyone — you know your skin best!
OSEA’s Ocean Cleanser
Initial Purchase: 2018 | Repurchased: 12+ times
I’m fairly certain I’ve been using this for 8+ years, but the earliest receipt I can find only goes back 7 years. I prefer a gel cleanser and this seaweed infused option is divine. I want to feel like I’m getting a thorough cleanse without that tight, dry feeling. It’s hydrating without leaving my skin feeling like I just lathered moisturizer on in the process. This has proven to be the hardest to replace.
OSEA’s Body Oil
Initial Purchase: 2020 | Repurchased: 4+ times
I can’t say enough good things about this body oil and neither can the 2500+ 5 star reviews on OSEA’s website. It absorbs beautifully into my skin without making me feel greasy. You can apply it to dry skin, but I always preferred applying it to slightly damp skin after the shower. I typically layer it with lotion for additional hydration. You can also find a fragrance free option.
Dieux Deliverance
Initial Purchase: 2021 | Repurchased: 17+ times
Truly magic in a bottle. This has been another item I have missed dearly. A few weeks into using it, I noticed a fine line on my nose dramatically softened. It’s great for redness and hyperpigmentation. I even got my husband hooked on it!
Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel
Initial Purchase: 2021 | Repurchased: 8+ times
This sunscreen was my intro to Korean sunscreen and I haven’t looked back! If you know about Korean sunscreen, then you know they’re leaps and bounds ahead of what you can get in the US. It’s lightweight but still has great coverage — perfect for summer. I alternate between this and Beauty of Joseon.
Skinfix Barrier+ Triple Lipid Peptide Cream
Initial Purchase: 2021 | Repurchased: 5+ times
I am fairly certain I have purchased this more than 5 times, but I can’t find more receipts. You’ll find me using this heavy moisturizer at night all year round.* I’ve heard it’s an excellent alternative to Skinceuticals Triple Lipid Restore. Rumor has it, Dieux’s chemist, Joyce de Lemos, worked on Skinfix Barrier+ Triple Lipid during her time there. It’s also refillable!
ps — stay tuned to see if this changes this summer, because we don’t have AC!*
Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Airy Sun Stick
Initial Purchase: 2021 | Repurchased: 3+ times
At the same time I purchased the Sun Gel, I also added this Sun Stick to cart. It’s perfect for on the go sunscreen reapplication.I liked the idea of having the ability to reapply without having to use my hands while I was out and about. It’s compact and mess free and super easy to throw into a purse before heading out the door.
Beauty of Joseon Sunscreen
Initial Purchase: 2023 | Repurchased: 9+ times
I had heard nothing but good things about Beauty of Joseon’s sunscreen, so I gave in to the hype and honestly, I wasn’t disappointed. I loved the ease of use and how it seamlessly blends into my skin during application. Funny enough, a sales associate at the Korean skincare store I go to in Paris told me it’s mainly popular among 15 to 20 year olds in Korea. Personally, I will still happily purchase this regardless if the target audience is for people half my age.
Dieux Air Angel
Initial Purchase: 2024 | Repurchased: 4+ times
I had originally tried to use Instant Angel, but sadly, I was one of the few people who experienced breakouts with it. I was so happy to know they had released a lighter option that also packed a great punch. It has over 10% glycerin, HA, peptides, and more. It keeps my face feeling hydrated and plump all day long.
ps — Dieux’s transparency is unmatched—I wish more brands followed suit.
ILIA Clear Eyebrow Gel
Initial Purchase: 2024 | Repurchased: 2 times
A few years ago, I actively began to pay attention to my eyebrows a bit more. My eyebrows naturally fall without any help. I tried a few eyebrow gels before landing on ILIA’s eyebrow gel and I haven’t looked back. A little goes a long way and it doesn’t leave my eyebrows feeling stiff or with any residue. Also, one of these tubes lasts a long time!
Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Water Essence
Initial Purchase: 2025 | Repurchased: 2 times
My latest obsession — Y’all may have heard me rave about this recently. It’s soothing and great for additional moisture as well as reducing redness. We’re just about to finish our second bottle, so my favorite skincare sales associate will be seeing my face soon! I’m shocked it took me this long to try it, especially after being familiar with Isntree’s products.
I’m From Rice Toner
Initial Purchase: 2025 | Repurchased: 2 times
This was recommended to us at the Korean store when we asked for a rice toner recommendation. I’ve been experiencing a bit more acne than usual and it’s been helpful to reduce redness and calm any irritation on my skin.
Honorable Mentions
These are products that I've been using and loving that I haven’t had to restock yet, but I will definitely be repurchasing!
Prequel Universal Skin Solution
Initial Purchase: 2024
I picked this up before we moved to Paris because I was curious about hypochlorous acid. When I’m breaking out a bit more than usual, I spray this on and I’ve noticed it helps reduce my redness and acne.
Korres Face Mask
Initial Purchase: 2024
My Sunday night ritual includes Korres. This is the first mask that I’m actually excited to repurchase. It leaves my skin feeling so soft post application. I love to wind down on Sunday evenings with this mask. All you need is 15 minutes and you’ll feel its nourishing effects.
Arencia Cleanser
Initial Purchase: 2025
One of my favorite physical exfoliants to date. I use this on hair wash days because I find it easier to lather it on my face and neck. It’s gentle while still having a major impact — a great option if you’re not into chemical forward products. Don’t forget your neck!
ps — they have different scents, but they all work the same!
Doré Le Sérum
Initial Purchase: 2025
I’ve been using this for a little over a month now (OFELIA10 gets you 10% off your order!) and I’ve been really enjoying it so far. It’s an alternative to most Vitamin C options you find on the market. Dore utilizes Kakadu Plum Fruit, which is known to be the highest source of natural Vitamin C on the planet. I also appreciate products that lend themselves to being refillable.
ps — There aren't a lot of studies on this magical fruit that evaluates the effectiveness of topical use. One thing to note is that Vitamin C with ferulic acid is highly regarded in the beauty industry partly because it’s very well studied. There could very well be other great Vitamin C options, so I would always suggest you give something a try to see if it works for you! Another option to consider: lipophilic Vitamin C.
ANUA Heartleaf Silky Moisture Sun Cream
Initial Purchase: 2025
We picked this up in the winter and it was definitely heavier in comparison to Beauty of Joseon’s sun cream. We got through one bottle and were going to purchase another when the sales associate at the Korean beauty store suggested something lighter for the Summer.
ps — I would happily wear Anua, Beauty of Joseon or Isntree’s versions.
Products I’m Interested in Trying
I don’t have access to all of these products in Paris, so I’m waiting patiently to pick them up on my next trip to the US. I’ve also included a few I’m hoping to give a try that are available locally.
Naturium The Glow Getter Multi-Oil Body Butter
I’m a sucker for body butter or oil. I recently came across this one and it sounds heavenly.
OSEA’s Wave Cleanser
While I don’t wear makeup, I have been trying to get into a double cleansing routine. Especially in the warmer months, when I am reapplying sunscreen throughout the day.
Mimetique Skincare
A brand based out of France that prides itself on being science based. It reminds me of Dieux in many ways. I’ll probably start by testing out their Skin Restore and Skin Web. As of last fall, they now ship to the US as well!
Ole Hendrenksin Retinol
I just picked this retinol up earlier this week per
’s recommendation, but if you have others you love, let me know! It also helped this just so happened to be 20% off at Sephora. I love a sale on an item I was already going to buy!ps — Sephora FR charges for in-store pick ups?! It cost the same for me to do in store pick up as it does for them to deliver to a relay point (very common delivery method in France) a block away. I ended up treating myself to a tart from the bakery nearby for walking my butt over there.
Typology
Speaking of Parisian based options, I picked up a few Typology products to try this week. Starting with this cleanser and this under eye serum I’m very excited to try!
Sofie Pavitt
Specifically, the mandelic acid exfoliating serum. I’ve heard everyone rave about it! Sofie Pavitt is known as a NYC skincare guru. She also has a Substack!
Furtuna Skincare
I’ve seen Furtuna Skincare pop up a lot lately and I’m curious. I see they’re based in Italy, so I’m hoping that means they ship from Italy. Cross your fingers for me! Otherwise, I may be holding off until I’m back in the US. I have yet to figure out the duty threshold for France.
All featured items mentioned here.
I would love to know what’s working for you in your skincare routine lately? What skincare staples have you been rebuying? Any new discoveries you’re loving as of late?
xx Ofelia
Disclaimer: some links are affiliate links, which means I may receive a very small percentage from a sale. As always, anything that is linked are things I either own, recommend or would purchase myself.
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April Favorites '25
I hope you had a lovely month and are enjoying spring in full bloom! Paris has been looking and feeling beautiful lately. I’ve been soaking up the warmer weather and taking every opportunity to wear my trench (as seen here, here, here, and here).
Recent Purchases & What I Rate Them
It’s been a while since I’ve shared a review on some recent-ish purchases and I thought it was the perfect time to do a round two. Admittedly, I haven’t done much clothes shopping since the holidays, but below you’ll find a mix of items I picked up around Christmas — some skincare, a few fashion pieces and a couple items for the apartment.
I've been so curious about eyebrow gel! Do you only use the gel or do you fill in your eyebrows as well? I always wondered if the gel alone would reveal any sparse areas or if it's supposed to help make your eyebrows look fuller?
I'm bookmarking this post because I trust your recommendations so much and the receipts (of repurchase) really is the best endorsement for something ever. I bought the Sophie Pavitt Serum (I just repurchased, so that makes 2) and it has truly changed my skin so much!