Oskia Micro Exfoliating Balm

The words "Balm" and "Brightening" blinded me just ling enough to decide that I must have this product: Oskia Micro Exfoliating Balm. The description of it as a "Nutri-Active Brightening & Refining Exfoliant" made me ignore the fact that this celebrated Oskia balm is a manual scrub with tiny grains that need to be rubbed against one's skin. The last few years I only use my Clarisonic for this purpose, and leaving all other exfoliating action to various acids and home peels.

But Oskia is such a cult brand and its limited availability (you need to order the products from the UK) makes it even more unicorn-like. Also, see Balm and Brightening. I had to try.

Oskia Micro Exfoliating Balm feels unbelievably abrasive. Almost shockingly so, and I've been using it for a while now. It's made of teeny tiny MSM Granules suspended in a sweet almond oil-based balm, which feels like a very fine sandpaper. Personally, I really don't like this sensation and always expect to end up with a red and raw face. In reality, the redness is minimal and goes away rather quickly. This doesn't compensate for the way this product feels, but the reality is that it's also wonderfully and surprisingly effective if you're willing to continue using this Oskia balm.

I've discovered that the balm does a great job dissolving skin debris and other gunk. I only use it once a week, but that's enough to add just a little extra something to the well-being of my skin. It doesn't strip the skin or hurt it in any way, and there is more clarity and freshness.

Still, since I have enough exfoliating in my life even without the balm, I doubt that I'll repurchase once I run out. Also, if your skin is sensitive and/or you have inflamed pimples and such, Oskia Micro Exfoliating Balm is likely to do more harm than good. It's a good product for maintenance, but not to treat problem skin.

Bottom Line: proceed with caution.

Oskia Micro Exfoliating Balm (£46.00) is available from cultbeauty.co.uk.