I had only been aware of Aesop since the beginning of the year, and it wasn't until three weeks ago that I decided to finally try the brand out for myself. I really wasn't looking for anything in particular as I was pretty satisfied with the routine I had going at the time but since reading lots of good reviews over the Parsley Seed range- serum in particular, I went in to the Covent Garden store to check it out. Thinking about it, I didn't really use a serum for the day but ever since the season shift, my skin had gone from really oily to quite dry like clockwork, so perhaps I did need an extra boost for my daily moisturiser just to keep my skin from being thirsty.
The store had a nice apothecary vibe to it, very hipster chic, which really makes sense as to why it appeals as part of the wole-niche-skincare-movement. The glass packaging is nice and thick to keep the products protected from direct sunlight, and the weight gives it a more premium feel and again- very old school (note: what is it with brands and the dropper? Seriously, but whatever.) The consultants were more than happy to give some advice with the products and it was then that I was told that actually, the Parsley Seed Serum is a moisturiser. Aesop had created the product to be a light alternative to face creams but with the same impact and benefits. I suppose considering the urban context, it makes sense that city folk would opt for something quick and easy and no fuss, especially the gents. Now I had no issues with that actually, and it was an idea that sounded good to me. Save money and effort on one product and all that.
As for the serum itself, it was lovely. It comes in a 100ml bottle but for £45 is pretty good value, considering most decent serums start at that price point from 30ml. The consistency is medium weight and silky, actually thicker than most serums I have tried in the past but not at all emollient or greasy. It penetrates the skin quickly and gives a very tacky, moisturised feeling. It doesn't have a fragrance which is preferred, and ingredients-wise, it's obviously great, packed full of antioxidants and moisturising components such as:
Camelia sinensis- its part of the Camelia family, but instead of the flowers this plant's leaves are widely used for tea. Green tea to be exact, and as you know that green tea is high in anti-oxidants. I also like to think that it provides some sort of detox for the skin.
Chamomile oil (Ormentis Multicaulis)- is an antibacterial oil but it is also a great skin conditioner with soothing properties.
Parsley Seed Oil- The star ingredient is antiseptic and it helps tone the skin due to it being astringent.
Aloe Vera- is obviously Xanax for the skin. It calms and soothes even the most sensitive skin.
After using it for almost three weeks, I have come to the conclusion that this product is a good daily serum for the low-maintenance person. I don't mean that offensively, I just mean that if you are the kind of person who wants efficient, effective and no-fuss skincare, this is it. It's a one step moisturising regime with free radical protection. On days where I like to let my skin breathe and don't wear makeup at all, I have used this serum on its own because it is enough hydration for me. However, in saying that- we are moving closer to the colder months and so I would actually couple this with a moisturiser. Just because the cold, the air conditioning at work and the daily make-up will prove too much for just the serum on it's own- and it has. I still use this as my morning serum but in the last week or so I had to layer it with a moisturiser to keep my skin hydrated for the duration of the day.
