Friday 16 March 2018

Alkimi Cinco Facial Oil



Now firstly I have to say this review is well overdue. In fact about 3 months overdue but oh well! Better late than never! Let me introduce you to Cinco, the beautiful facial oil that has been created by the lovely Natalie from @RoadtoGlow on Instagram. She is a gorgeous lady and seriously knows her stuff when it comes to skincare! Definitely go and check her out. You will want to after I have finished with this review anyway 😉


The standout reason for me buying this oil was not only to support a friend but because it is free from essential oils. I personally believe it is much harder to create an effective facial oil minus essential oils. But Natalie has most certainly done that.

The majority of brands out there (especially the ‘green’ and ‘natural’ ones) tend to include essential oils so it is refreshing to see something different. My skin tends to be ok with EO’s but it very much depends on the quality of the ingredients, and how regularly I use them. If most of my routine consisted of products that contain high levels of EO’s then my skin would probably freak out. I like that with this it doesn’t matter what my skin is doing or how sensitive it is, I can feel assured that it will do no harm or cause further aggravation.

Natalie has formed this oil off the back of her own experiences and needs for her skin type. After struggling to find a solution for her acne she began researching skin physiology and ingredients. And boy is she a font of knowledge! Most oily/acneic skins have been shown to have low levels of linoleic acid in their skin, so products that are high in LA help balance out sebum production and reduce breakouts. The good news is Cinco contains high levels of LA oils and essential fatty acids, so this is a perfect companion for you if you suffer with your skin, whether it be due to acne or sensitivity. Here is a breakdown of the ingredients in order of appearance:

Omega 3 and 6 Fatty Acids - Both of which have high LA content and contribute to the beautiful rich texture and golden hue. These fatty acids which are found in many of the oils included in Cinco, assist in barrier repair, help skin retain moisture levels and promote elasticity.

Red Raspberry Seed Oil - High LA content, like black cumin seed oil this has incredible anti-inflammatory properties. It contains Vitamin E and Carotenoids which are powerful antioxidants that assist with reducing skin damage and plays an important part in the health of our skin.

Cranberry Seed Oil - High in Vitamin E, A, fatty acids and antioxidants it is a great all-rounder which is wonderful for mature skins and supports the aging process.

Watermelon Seed Oil - A lighter oil, high in LA, antioxidants and fatty acids. It’s particularly effective for oily skins but beneficial for all skin types including dry and irritated.

Black Cumin Seed Oil - High LA content, fatty acids and antioxidants, it offers soothing abilities to calm and relieve sensitivity whilst being antibacterial. It locks in hydration and acts like a shield for the skin.

Blueberry Seed Oil - One of nature’s most potent antioxidants, with a fatty acid content almost as high as rosehip oil. This is fantastic for rejuvenating and repairing the skin, keeping it plump and firm.

Rosehip Seed Oil - High LA content, commonly used to brighten and give the glow back into skin! Packed with vitamin c and lycopene this oil restores elasticity and protects against environmental stressors that can lead to wrinkles and dullness.

Pomegranate Seed Oil - High antioxidant and LA content. Extremely regenerative and nutritious, pomegranate seeds contain ‘punicic acid’ which is a fatty acid that has strong anti-inflammatory properties. This oil is particularly wonderful for maintaining skin firmness and stimulating collagen, which works well for mature skins.

Tamanu Oil - Rich in fatty acids and antioxidants it helps speed up skin healing and acts as a barrier on the skin. It is often used to help reduce the appearance of scars so would be perfect for skin prone to pigmentation.
Vitamin E - Speeds up cell regeneration so is used to treat scars, acne and wrinkles. It helps to retain the natural moisture content in the skin so is hugely beneficial for dull, dehydrated skins

Now you may look down the list and see that I have pretty much repeated myself throughout, but I am wanting to highlight that this oil is seriously packed with good stuff! There is nothing in it that you wouldn’t want on your skin. No added fragrance, no essential oils. Every ingredient included is jam packed with vitamins, omegas and antioxidants making for a highly nutritious facial oil.




I personally think the formula is exceptional. Although quite rich it isn’t heavy on the skin and absorbs almost instantly. It works well blended into a moisturiser or patted over the top of skin at the end of your routine. I have used it both day and night and can attest it works for either due to its non-greasy texture.  See pictures below, one of it sat on the skin and the 2nd shot is of it rubbed in. I'm sure you could have worked that out but thought I'd better clarify in case you wondered why there was just a picture of my hand!




In terms of scent, think natural and woody. I know other people have compared it to pencil shavings and I can certainly see why. If you are looking for a sensual, fragrant oil then this is not it. The scent was pretty much what I was expecting and I personally do not find it offensive at all.

If you are on the hunt for a new facial oil, try this. For the price, quality and quantity you cannot go wrong. From the UV protective packaging to the ingredients chosen, all is exceptionally sophisticated. Natalie has managed to blend a concoction that would suit most skin types but I personally think it is awesome for oily breakout prone skins. You can find lots of oils on the market dedicated to drier skin types so I think this sits in a unique group for the more easily congested prone skins.

More often than not I find myself reaching for this when I have a breakout as it works so well at speeding up the healing process and drawing out redness/irritation. I like to massage a tiny bit on individual spots as it acts like a spot treatment. It has rescued many a hormonal breakout since around November time when I first started using it!

If you are interested in purchasing this little bottle of magic for yourself you can buy here direct from Alkimi’s website. International shipping is offered and the rates are reasonable. Cinco is priced at £35 for 20ml (but a little birdy has told me that the bottle will be increasing to 30ml in the next couple of months!) 
Have you tried this oil or any other's that are essential oil free? I'd love to know!

Thanks for reading xx
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