Beauty

Aesop Skincare Review

About Aesop

Aesop Skincare Review

Aesop is a skincare brand that offers meticulously crafted skin, hair, and body care formulas. The company is owned by the Brazilian cosmetics group, Natura & Co. In addition to skincare, they also create hair care products, soaps, and fragrances. 

A study highlights the benefits of using herbal cosmetics for maintaining healthy skin. The study emphasizes that cosmetics, such as creams, lotions, oils, and gels, can enhance personal appearance and protect the skin from various disorders. However, it cautions that many cosmetic products on the market may be adulterated or of poor quality, leading to side effects and skin diseases.

Aesop achieves this by utilizing a combination of plant-based and laboratory-made ingredients, carefully selected for their proven safety and potency. The Aesop mission is to formulate skin, hair, and body care products of the finest quality.

Aesop is known for its thorough in-person customer service and free samples. They uphold this reputation by employing informed consultants in each of their unique storefronts to ensure that all of your questions are fully answered. The brand hopes that whatever product you try is one that you can have a long-term relationship with. 

The company also has a philanthropic side in the form of the Aesop Foundation. They work together with local charities to help improve literacy and the lives of their community members. Notable collaborators include the Australian Literacy and Numeracy Foundation and the Story Factory Novella Project.

This Aesop skincare review will offer a comprehensive look at the brand and the available products. We’ll also investigate customer reviews to help you make a thoughtful decision about the company. 

Studies About Skincare Products

If you are considering Aesop products to address specific skin concerns (such as dryness, dullness, or signs of aging), it may be helpful to learn about some recent studies on skincare products.

  • A 2018 study investigated the efficacy of natural oils, such as jojoba oil and sunflower seed oil. The study found that these oils can improve skin barrier function, hydration, and reduce inflammation.
  • A 2019 study explored the benefits of antioxidants, like vitamin E and flavonoids. The results showed that these antioxidants can protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, reducing signs of aging and maintaining skin health.
  • A 2022 study evaluated the effectiveness of plant-derived ingredients, like green tea extract. The study discovered that these ingredients can provide anti-inflammatoryantimicrobial, and antioxidant benefits, contributing to overall skin health and appearance.
  • A 2021 study examined the benefits of hyaluronic acid, a popular ingredient in skincare products. The research demonstrated that hyaluronic acid can significantly improve skin hydrationelasticity, and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.

Aesop Pros & Cons

Aesop Skincare Review

Before we get into product details, this Aesop skincare review will give you a snapshot of the brand’s pros and cons:

Pros

  • High-quality ingredients: Aesop is known for using premium, plant-based ingredients in their products, which are carefully selected for their efficacy and compatibility with the skin.
  • Effective formulations: Many users report positive results from using Aesop products, noting improvements in their skin, hair, and overall well-being.
  • Minimalist packaging: Aesop is recognized for its sleek and minimalist packaging, which adds a touch of luxury and sophistication to the products.
  • Unique and distinct fragrances: Aesop products often have distinctive scents that are well-loved by customers, adding a sensory experience to their skincare and body care routines.
  • Environmental and ethical considerations: Aesop emphasizes sustainable practices and responsible sourcing of ingredients. They prioritize ethical considerations and are committed to minimizing their impact on the environment.

Cons

  • High price point: Aesop products tend to be more expensive compared to mainstream skincare brands, which may make them less accessible to some customers.
  • Limited availability: While Aesop has expanded its retail presence over the years, their stores and counters are not available in all locations, which can be a limitation for customers outside major cities.
  • Personal preferences: Skincare and body care products can have varying effects on different individuals. While many people appreciate Aesop’s formulations, there may be some who do not find the products suitable for their specific needs or preferences.
  • Synthetic ingredients: While Aesop primarily uses plant-based ingredients, some of their products may contain synthetic additives or preservatives, which may not be preferred by individuals seeking entirely natural or organic products.
  • Fragrance sensitivity: Aesop’s distinct fragrances, although loved by many, may not be suitable for individuals who are sensitive to scents or prefer fragrance-free products.

Ingredients

Aesop Skincare Review

Aesop prides itself on using high-quality, plant-based ingredients in its products. While the specific ingredients can vary across different products, here are some common ingredients found in Aesop skincare and body care formulations:

Botanical Extracts

Aesop often incorporates various botanical extracts, such as aloe vera, chamomile, rosehip oil, lavender, green tea, witch hazel, and citrus extracts. These extracts can provide soothing, hydrating, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Essential Oils

Aesop frequently uses essential oils to add fragrance and therapeutic properties to its products. Examples include lavender oil, geranium oil, neroli oil, petitgrain oil, ylang-ylang oil, and bergamot oil.

Hydrating Ingredients

Aesop incorporates hydrating ingredients like glycerin, sodium hyaluronate (hyaluonic acid), and panthenol (provitamin B5) to help retain moisture and improve skin hydration.

Antioxidants

Aesop often includes antioxidants such as vitamin E, vitamin C, and botanical extracts like rosemary and green tea. These ingredients help protect the skin from environmental damage and promote a youthful appearance.

Emollients and Oils

Aesop utilizes various emollients and oils to provide nourishment and hydration to the skin. Examples include jojoba oil, macadamia seed oil, shea butter, almond oil, and avocado oil.

Plant-Based Surfactants

Aesop uses gentle, plant-based surfactants derived from sources like coconut and sugar to create cleansing and foaming properties in its products.

Natural Preservatives

Aesop employs natural preservatives like tocopherol (vitamin E), potassium sorbate, and sodium benzoate to ensure product stability and safety.

It’s important to note that the specific ingredients in Aesop products can vary, and it’s always recommended to check the product labels or consult the brand directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information on ingredients.

Benefits

Aesop products offer several benefits related to their carefully selected ingredients.

Here are some key benefits associated with the ingredients used in Aesop formulations:

Efficacy and Performance

Aesop’s use of high-quality, plant-based ingredients is intended to deliver effective results. These ingredients are chosen for their proven efficacy in addressing specific skincare concerns, such as hydration, soothing, revitalization, and nourishment.

Skin Compatibility

Aesop formulates its products with ingredients that are carefully selected for their compatibility with a wide range of skin types. The brand strives to create formulations that are suitable for sensitive skin and work well for individuals with various skin concerns or conditions.

Hydration and Moisture

Aesop incorporates hydrating ingredients like glycerin, sodium hyaluronate, and plant oils into its products to help replenish and retain moisture in the skin. These ingredients can help improve skin hydration, resulting in a smoother, plumper, and more supple complexion.

Antioxidant Protection

Aesop’s use of antioxidants, such as vitamin E, vitamin C, and botanical extracts, helps protect the skin from environmental stressors and free radicals that can cause premature aging. Antioxidants help neutralize harmful free radicals and promote a healthier, more youthful-looking complexion.

Soothing and Calming Properties

Many Aesop products contain ingredients known for their soothing and calming properties, such as chamomile, aloe vera, lavender, and witch hazel. These ingredients can help reduce redness, irritation, and inflammation, making them beneficial for sensitive or reactive skin.

Aromatherapy Experience

Aesop’s inclusion of essential oils in its products not only provides a pleasant fragrance but also offers potential aromatherapy benefits. The scents can help uplift the mood, promote relaxation, and enhance the overall sensory experience during skincare and self-care routines.

It’s important to note that individual experiences may vary, and it’s always recommended to perform a patch test and consult product labels or Aesop’s official information for specific benefits and suitability based on your unique skin needs and concerns.

Side Effects

While Aesop products are generally well-tolerated by most individuals, it’s important to note that everyone’s skin is unique, and certain ingredients may cause side effects or sensitivities in some people. Here are some potential side effects associated with Aesop products:

Allergic Reactions

Some individuals may be allergic to specific ingredients used in Aesop products. Common allergens in skincare products include essential oils, fragrances, preservatives, and botanical extracts. Allergic reactions can manifest as redness, itching, irritation, swelling, or a rash. It’s advisable to perform a patch test before using a new Aesop product, especially if you have known allergies or sensitivities.

Sensitivities

Certain ingredients, even if not allergenic, can cause skin sensitivities or irritations in some individuals. This can occur even if you have not experienced previous allergies or sensitivities to similar ingredients. It’s recommended to monitor your skin’s reaction when introducing new Aesop products and discontinue use if any adverse reactions occur.

Photosensitivity

Some botanical ingredients, such as citrus extracts or essential oils, can increase skin sensitivity to sunlight and potentially lead to sunburn or skin discoloration. It’s advisable to use sunscreen and take appropriate sun protection measures when using Aesop products that contain photosensitizing ingredients, particularly during sun exposure.

Individual Reactions

Skincare products can have varying effects on different individuals due to their unique skin types, conditions, and sensitivities. While Aesop products are formulated to be compatible with a wide range of skin types, it’s possible that an individual may experience unexpected side effects or skin reactions.

If you experience any persistent or severe side effects or discomfort after using Aesop products, it’s recommended to discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist for further guidance.

They can assess your specific situation, provide personalized advice, and recommend alternative products if necessary.

5 Aesop Bestsellers

The brand sells skincare, haircare, and fragrance products. This Aesop skincare review will focus on dermatologic bestsellers, but feel free to check out their other body and hair care lines. Also, with each order, the company throws in complimentary samples that you will be able to select at checkout.

The next portion of this review will feature bestselling products including facial oil, hydrating creams, and cleansers. 

Aesop Bitter Orange Astringent Toner

Like a tiny spa day in a bottle, the Bitter Orange Astringent Toner is chock full of botanicals to keep your skin looking great. Featuring Witch Hazel and Rosemary Leaf, this toner clears out the excess dirt from the pores for a clearer, balanced complexion. 

For best results, Aesop recommends applying half a teaspoon of the toner in the morning and evening by applying it to a cotton pad or your fingers and patting it onto the face and neck. This product’s effects can also be enhanced when used with other Aesop creams, serums, and gels.

Get this potent  Bitter Orange Astringent Toner in one of two sizes: 

  • 3.4 oz: $35
  • 6.8 oz: $53

Aesop Mandarin Facial Hydrating Cream

Cool and hydrated skin is easy peasy lemon squeezy with the Mandarin Facial Hydrating Cream. This citrus-based product leaves a light finish as it soothes and balances the skin. Mandarin, Lemon, and Tangerine all come together in a zesty formula to help keep your face looking toned.

Aesop recommends applying a ½ teaspoon of this product to your skin twice a day and is best suited for those with normal to combination skin, as well as oily skin throughout the cooler seasons.  

This invigorating cream is available in a 2.1 oz container for $50.

Aesop Parsley Seed Anti-Oxidant Serum

The Parsley Seed Anti-Oxidant Serum is a staple in the Aesop skincare routine for oily skin. This product contains all the antioxidants you could ever ask for, plus Grape Seed and Parsley Seed to help hydrate and fortify the skin. All of this goodness is nicely packaged in an Aloe Vera formula for deep hydration.

This serum works for most skin types but is particularly effective for combination and oily skin. For best results, massage a ½ teaspoon of the product into your freshly washed face and feel the magic happen.  

Get the solution to soft, hydrated skin in a 3.4 oz bottle for $75.

Aesop Avail Facial Lotion with Sunscreen

We all have days to conquer, and many of us forget that when we are out and about we are exposing our skin to harmful UVA and UVB sun rays. 

Thankfully, you can add a secret weapon to your makeup arsenal to protect your skin from the inside out. The Avail Facial Lotion with Sunscreen shields your skin from ultraviolet rays with SPF25. Plus, the moisturizer harnesses Green Tea, Tocopherol, and Panthenol to ensure hydration with a light, herbal scent.

This lightweight moisturizer should be applied 20 minutes before sun exposure and may need reapplying every few hours. This Avail Facial Lotion with Sunscreen comes in a 1.8oz container for the price of $60

Aesop Body Lotion with Sunscreen

Meant to be the counterpart to the brand’s facial lotion with sunscreen, the Body Lotion with Sunscreen has been designed to shield your body from the sun. 

Though the sunscreen lotion provides SPF25, the body lotion goes the extra mile with SPF50 protection ensuring that you can go about your run, daily schedule, or errands without harming your skin in the process. 

The lotion is also great at keeping your skin supple and soft with the added Spearmint Leaf, Tocopherol, and Panthenol for a light, mint scent. Pair with an Aesop body wash at the end of the day for happy, smooth skin. 

This lightweight lotion is best applied generously 15 minutes before you go out into the sun, and it must be reapplied every 80 minutes to ensure ample protection. The Body Lotion with Sunscreen comes in a 5.4oz bottle for $41

Who is Aesop For?

Aesop products are designed for individuals who appreciate high-quality skincare and body care formulations that prioritize natural and botanical ingredients.

While Aesop aims to cater to a wide range of skin types and concerns, their products are generally well-suited for the following:

  • All Skin Types: Aesop formulates its products to be compatible with various skin types, including normal, dry, oily, combination, and sensitive skin. They offer a diverse range of products that can address different skin concerns, such as hydration, balance, purification, and nourishment.
  • Individuals Seeking Natural and Botanical Ingredients: Aesop appeals to those who prefer skincare and body care products with natural and plant-based ingredients. They emphasize the use of botanical extracts, essential oils, and other natural ingredients known for their beneficial properties and potential therapeutic effects.
  • Those with a Focus on Quality: Aesop products are known for their premium quality and attention to detail. Individuals who prioritize high-quality formulations, elegant packaging, and a luxurious experience in their skincare routine may appreciate Aesop’s offerings.
  • Individuals Interested in Sustainable and Ethical Brands: Aesop’s commitment to sustainable practices and ethical sourcing resonates with individuals who value brands that prioritize environmental responsibility and social consciousness. As a certified B Corporation, Aesop adheres to high ethical standards and strives to minimize its impact on the environment.
  • Those Who Enjoy Aromatherapy and Sensorial Experiences: Aesop’s incorporation of essential oils and carefully crafted fragrances can enhance the sensory experience during skincare and body care routines. Individuals who appreciate aromatherapy benefits, indulgent scents, and a holistic approach to self-care may find Aesop products appealing.

It’s important to note that individual preferences, skin sensitivities, and specific skin concerns can vary.

It’s recommended to consider your unique needs and perform patch tests or consult with skincare professionals to determine if Aesop products are suitable for you.

Alternatives

If you’re looking for alternative brands that offer natural skincare options, here are a few popular options to consider:

  • Proven: Proven offers personalized skincare solutions based on extensive scientific research and analysis of your unique skin profile. They use natural ingredients and advanced technology to create customized skincare products tailored to your specific needs.
  • Timeless: Timeless is known for its effective, affordable, and minimalist skincare formulations. They focus on high-quality ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and retinol, to target various skin concerns and promote a healthy complexion.
  • Facetheory: Facetheory offers a range of natural skincare products that combine potent botanical extracts, vitamins, and active ingredients. They emphasize transparency and affordability, making their products accessible to a wide range of customers.
  • Follain: Follain is a brand that curates a selection of clean beauty products, including skincare, haircare, and body care. They prioritize non-toxic ingredients and have a rigorous approval process for the products they carry, ensuring they meet high standards of safety and effectiveness.

These brands provide alternatives to Aesop, offering natural skincare options with their own unique approaches and product offerings.

It’s always a good idea to research each brand, explore their specific product ranges, and consider your personal skin needs and preferences before making a decision.

Aesop Reviews: What Do Customers Think?

Aesop Skincare Review

Now that we’ve taken stock of Aesop’s bestselling products, let’s find out how they perform at home. 

First up, a review from Makeup Alley has over 77 Aesop products listed and 942 reviews in total. Out of these reviews, the brand gained a 3.7/5 star rating overall. 

Of these numbers, over 63% of customers said that they would re-purchase the brand, with testimonials like “I have been using this hand cream on and off for years… It’s a reasonably thick, herbal-smelling cream which nourishes and protects my hands and nails.” 

This review was posted about the Ressurection Aeromatique Hand Balm, the highest-rated Aesop product on MakeUp Alley. 

The brand has also been reviewed over 900 times on Influenster. The Resurrection Aromatique Hand Wash is the second-highest evaluated product at 72 reviews, with an overall rating of 4.8/5 stars

This testimonial from Influenster sums it up quite nicely: “Pro: Aesop soap always works to motivate me to wash my hand more often, smells amazing and natural, and gentle on skin. Con: expensive for just a hand-soap. I would still recommend them though, they make me happy.”

Other customers note that they enjoy the luxurious feeling of washing regularly with this soap, but agree that it’s a bit too expensive. 

On Trustpilot, there are 37 reviews with an overall rating of 3.9/5 stars. Evaluations frequently mention the pleasant scent and aesthetics of Aesop products. 

The customer service is also praised for being fast and helpful without any questions asked. 5-star rater, Ed writes “Brilliant customer service. We ordered a product, tried it. It didn’t suit and Aesop not only exchanged it but went to the trouble of giving us detailed information on alternatives for different skin types.”

The Resurrection Aromatique Hand Wash is also one of the most reviewed Aesop products on Amazon, with 297 reviews and an average rating of 4.7/5 stars. A 5-star reviewer, Lorna from the UK puts it simply, “Lovely hand wash is expensive but worth it.” Other customers applaud the pleasant aroma and nice packaging

Since this hand wash promises so much, it deserves some evidence to back it up. 5-Star reviewer, Ralphie T writes “This is my holy grail winter time cream… It is gentle, moisturizing without feeling sticky or greasy and combats extreme dryness.”

Overall, most evaluations for Aesop products are pretty stellar. There were a few negative reviews on TrustPilot, where customers felt they weren’t getting the best quality for what they were paying.

Another more common complaint is that the customer service in-store was clingy, and the customer service agents were over-eager. Depending on what type of shopper you are, these can be positives.

Is Aesop Worth It?

Aesop Skincare Review

Customers have good things to say about the brand, but when all is said and done, is Aesop a good brand? The answer is a resounding yes to both

This Aesop skincare review has determined that the brand lives up to all of the values and promises that they uphold. Each product is formulated with organic and safe ingredients that are listed in full under the product descriptions on the website. Their skincare line is also carefully crafted to produce pleasant aromas and effective results, and they arrive in aesthetically pleasing packaging. The one large downside is that customers find the brand unaffordable for products that they use frequently and run out of fast.

Customer service is responsible, sympathetic, and attentive. Consultants are available through a few different avenues, including complimentary one on one consultations to answer your questions and help you establish an Aesop skincare routine. Their work with local charities is also a huge plus.

Though some of the negative reviews are off-putting, the customer service within the brand’s stores does not speak to the products themselves. Plus, the negative reviews mainly point to personal preference issues and how someone’s individual taste does not coincide with how the products are made. 

If you do have issues with the products, you can always take advantage of the brand’s 90-day return policy

But, if you’re looking for a very hands-on, effective brand to support, this Aesop skincare review gives a big thumbs up to the company.

Aesop Promotions & Discounts 

Aesop Skincare Review

The brand recommends signing up for email notifications to keep up to date on exclusive offers and promotions. While the company does periodically offer discounts, there is no specific Aesop sale section. 

Where to Buy Aesop Soap

Aesop Skincare Review

Is Aesop skincare worth it? Ready to buy? The products in this Aesop Skincare review are available at Aesop.com, as well as signature stores/department store counters, and select stockists. You can easily find the location of the closest seller on their website.

You can also shop Aesop online through Amazon, Revolve, Nordstrom, and Walmart. 

FAQ

Aesop Skincare Review

Who is Aesop owned by? 

The brand is owned by the Brazilian cosmetics group, Natura & Co, and the founder of the company is ex-hairdresser Dennis Paphitis.

Is Aesop a clean brand? 

Aesop takes pride in its clean product development, but the company’s practices may not fall under the same definition as other brands that advertise as clean. For instance, Aesop does not use the words “organic” or “natural” to encompass their entire product line. The company acknowledges that many of the ingredients they use are “natural” by definition, but some are not. 

Aesop appreciates the effects of plant-based, science-based properties. As such, the company chooses to incorporate both into the development and manufacturing of their high-quality products (scientifically validated and skin-friendly). Every item used is sourced safely from reputable suppliers.

What is Aesop’s Shipping Policy?

Aesop offers complimentary standard shipping within the mainland United States and to Hawaii and Puerto Rico through FedEx ground. Shipments take approximately 2-6 business days to arrive. 

Next day shipping is available in the continental United States only using FedEx standard overnight shipping (travel in 1 business day) for an additional $20.

Aesop also ships internationally. To find the country that you’re looking to ship to, open the destination menu in the website’s footer section. From there, you’ll be redirected to the Aesop website that services your region. Prices will be displayed in that destination’s currency. 

Can I return Aesop products?

Aesop offers refunds or exchanges on products that you find to be unsuitable. The package must include proof of purchase and be returned within 90 days of the date of purchase. This excludes the holiday period between November 1 and December 31, when returns are only accepted within 30 days of purchase.  

To start a return, click here, select ‘Order Enquiry’ from the drop-down menu and complete the form, ensuring the online order number of the purchase (provided at the time the order is made) is correct. Upon receipt, Aesop customer service consultants will provide you with a prepaid return postage label via email with instructions on how to return the products. 

How to Contact Aesop

Aesop offers a number of ways to communicate with their consultants and customer support:

  1. Live support available Monday–Sunday 9 AM–7 PM EDT (excluding public holidays)
  2. Book a one on one video consultation here, free for thirty minutes
  3. Submit an inquiry form

Call Aesop directly at 1-416-944-3136 between Monday–Friday, 9 AM–6 PM EDT (excluding public holidays)


Explore your options for natural skincare with these popular brands:

Proven

Timeless

Facetheory

Follain

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