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Guerlain Abeille Royale Youth Watery Oil Serum – New Formula 2025

 
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Guerlain Abeille Royale Youth Watery Oil Serum - New Formula 2025

I was first introduced to Guerlain Abeille Royale Youth Watery Oil quite a few years back, and although I wasn’t sure about the name, I fell in love with the texture (and eventually the name!). It’s a stunning formula and the good news is that it has had an upgrade and a shiny new formulation for 2025. Here is everything you need to know.

What is Guerlain Abeille Royale Youth Watery Oil?

What is new in the Guerlain Abeille Royale Youth Watery Oil Serum 2025 Formula?
What is new in the Guerlain Abeille Royale Youth Watery Oil Serum 2025 Formula?

The new version of the Youth Water Oil is the result of 15 years of research and the formulation is backed by 9 patents and 9 publications:

  • Uses 3 honeys and royal jelly produced by the black bee to repair
  • Features a deep diffusion texture to target the epidermis
  • Works to multiply the skin’s self-repair mechanisms by 9 times
  • Promotes plumpness and radiance
  • Increases firmness and elasticity
  • Visibly smooths wrinkles
  • Strengthens the skin’s barrier
  • Boosts hydration by 124% in one hour
  • Contains 99% naturally-derived ingredients
  • Infused with melt-in micro-beads that instantly fuse with the skin for deep repair

If you shop via my Sephora link*, you can get 15% off with code REALLYREESPH

How to use it

Guerlain Abeille Royale Youth Watery Oil Serum: how to use
Guerlain Abeille Royale Youth Watery Oil Serum: how to use

Step 1: Gently shake the bottle
Step 2: Take around 10 drops, and warm in the palms of your hands
Step 3: Smooth into the skin, starting in the middle of the face and moving outwards

I have been using this as my first serum, both day and night.

My Review

Guerlain Abeille Royale Youth Watery Oil Serum Texture
Guerlain Abeille Royale Youth Watery Oil Serum Texture

If you’ve been following me for a while, you’ll know that I have a serious soft spot for luxury skincare. Guerlain has always been one of my favourite brands so, when I heard they had reformulated the Abeille Royale Youth Watery Oil Serum, I couldn’t wait to try it and see if it still delivered that iconic glow! Here’s everything you need to know about the new formula.

I remember being baffled by the name of this product when I was first introduced to it, but I have to say, it’s a pretty spot on description and I have grown to love the name. Did you know that Guerlain sell a Youth Watery Oil worldwide every 26 seconds?

Guerlain has dramatically amped up the repairing properties with the release of the new version of Youth Watery Oil and I have been absolutely loving it. It is super hydrating, smoothing and calming and it just makes my skin look so healthy. I love it as a first step after cleansing, as it feels so quenching and is super light. It layers really well under other serums.

What’s New?

Guerlain has taken its already beloved Youth Watery Oil and given it a high-performance upgrade. The formula still harnesses the power of BlackBee Repair Technology, but it now boasts 99% naturally derived ingredients.

They’ve also introduced a new dynamic black bee honey ferment, designed to boost skin repair even further. This means better hydration, improved elasticity, and a plumper, more youthful-looking complexion. The inclusion of royal jelly and other potent natural ingredients enhances the skin’s resilience, making it more resistant to daily stressors and environmental damage.

Another exciting change is the improved micro-encapsulation technology, which allows the tiny golden bubbles of oil suspended in the serum to deliver active ingredients deep into the skin more efficiently. This ensures maximum absorption and efficacy, giving you noticeable results in a shorter time frame.

Texture & Application

The thing I have always loved about Youth Watery Oil is its dreamy texture – and I’m happy to report that it remains just as lightweight, silky, and fast-absorbing as ever! It has a unique oil-in-water consistency that glides onto the skin, sinking in instantly without any greasiness.

The oil micro-droplets literally melt on the skin but the formula never feels oily. It is super nourishing like an oil but it has that real freshness of a lotion and the power of a serum, all in one.

After cleansing, I press it gently over my face and my skin just drinks it up. It leaves a soft and dewy finish on my skin and it layers seamlessly under other skincare products and makeup, making it a perfect addition to both morning and evening routines.

Results & Performance

Now, onto the part that really matters – does it work? I’ve been using the new formula for two weeks, and my skin is absolutely loving it. It has really helped to boost hydration and glow, and gives my skin a lovely plump and smoothed out appearance. It has been a while since I used the original formula, so it is hard to compare, but I have been super impressed with how this updated product has performed.

Who Is It Best For?

This serum is ideal for anyone looking to restore radiance, deeply hydrate, and improve the resilience of their skin. It’s suitable for all skin types, even sensitive skin, thanks to its naturally derived ingredients and ultra-gentle formulation. If you’re someone who wants the benefits of an oil without the heaviness, this is a perfect match for you.

If you have dry skin, you’ll love how nourishing and hydrating it feels, while those with oily or combination skin will appreciate the non-greasy, fast-absorbing formula. Plus, the added resilience against environmental aggressors makes it a great choice for city dwellers exposed to pollution and stress.

Final Thoughts

Guerlain has absolutely nailed this reformulation. The new Abeille Royale Youth Watery Oil Serum delivers immediate hydration, amped up radiance, and visible skin repair.

Whether you’re new to this cult-favorite or a longtime fan, I definitely think this is an investment that you won’t regret.

If you are still looking for a serum, check out my round up of Best Serums for all skin types and budgets. Also, this Youth Watery Oil pairs perfectly with the new Medik8 Liquid Peptides Advanced MP serum*. Read more about that in Medik8 Review: My Top Picks 2025.

Where to buy it

Guerlain Abeille Royale Youth Watery Oil Serum starts at £49 and is available now via the links below. If you shop via my Sephora link, you can get 15% off with code REALLYREESPH

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Joonbyrd Moon Swim Body Wash Review

 
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Joonbyrd Moon Swim Body Wash Review

There’s nothing quite like a body wash that turns your everyday shower into a little slice of luxury, and the Joonbyrd Moon Swim Body Wash is just that – an absolute treat for the senses! From the moment I popped open the bottle, I was transported into the most comforting, dreamy moment: the fragrance instantly reminded me of the gorgeous coffee with cream and chocolate sprinkles that my husband makes me. Honestly, could a body wash be any more delicious?

What is Joonbyrd Moon Swim Body Wash?

What is Joonbyrd Moon Swim Body Wash?
What is Joonbyrd Moon Swim Body Wash?
  • Indulgent Body Wash
  • Luxurious formula
  • Gives a soft cream lather
  • Enriched with skin-loving ingredients
  • Offers a deep cleanse that removes dirt and impurities
  • Doesn’t strip the skin
  • Designed to leave skin refreshed, balanced and soft
  • Infused with the aroma of caramel latte
  • Vegan friendly and cruelty-free
  • Refillable

Key Ingredients

Bioactive vitamin E and hyaluronic acid – to deliver superior hydration and strengthen the skin’s barrier.

Prebiotic inulin – nourishes the skin’s microbiome

Ashwagandha – an adaptogenic herb, defends against free radicals to combat the effects of stress and help the skin to look youthful

My Review

My review Moon Swim Body Wash
My review Moon Swim Body Wash

I don’t often get as excited about a body wash as this, and I have to confess, I wasn’t expecting to love this as much as I do, but it is absolutely gorgeous. I am truly developing a borderline obsession with it!

The scent

The scent is rich, warm, and utterly addictive. It completely transforms shower time into the best, most elevated experience and I actually spend time looking forward to using this body wash!

When it comes to body care, scent is pretty important to me, and I love it when the fragrance is enveloping and long lasting. I love something that lingers, something that makes me feel wrapped in pure comfort, and Moon Swim delivers that completely. It’s got this beautiful balance of warmth and depth, with creamy, velvety notes that bring to mind freshly brewed coffee swirled with silky cream, topped with just the right dusting of cocoa (my favourite!!!). It’s indulgent, but never overpowering.

The Texture & Lather

Moon Swim Body Wash Texture
Moon Swim Body Wash Texture

The formulation of Joonbyrd Moon Swim is excellent. The texture is soft, silky, and luxe. It is absolutely dreamy. It is a gorgeously smooth gel that transforms into a rich, velvety lather. It feels so soft and hydrating on the skin, leaving it feeling fresh, cleansed, and super soft and calm. I love that it doesn’t strip my skin or leave it feeling tight, which is a must for me, especially in the colder months. As I get older, I find the skin on my body needs extra TLC to stop it looking crinkly, and this really does help with that.

I have also tried the Daydreamer Body Serum* and it’s amazing for smoothing out my skin. I need to write a review on that too!

Final Thoughts

Using Joonbyrd Moon Swim is genuinely like stepping into a moment of self-care luxury. It’s perfect for those early morning showers when you need a little boost or for unwinding at the end of the day.

If you love a rich, warm, and utterly comforting fragrance experience, this is absolutely one to check out especially if you are looking for a moment of indulgence in everyday routines.

Let’s be honest, at £40 for 350ml, it isn’t cheap but it will without doubt make you feel fantastic and I’d say that makes it worth it! Also, you can buy a 500ml refill for £50 which will refill your bottle 1.4 times. So if you get addicted, it will only get more affordable!

If you’re looking for a new elevated body wash, but Caramel Latte isn’t your vibe, have a read of Corpus No. Green Body Wash Review or Sol de Janeiro Delicia Drench Shower Oil Review.

Where to buy it

Joonbyrd Moon Swim Body Wash is £40 for 350ml and is available now via the links below:

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Naturium Vitamin C Complex Cleanser Review

 
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Naturium Vitamin C Complex Cleanser Review

I am always excited to try newness from skincare brand Naturium and as a cleanser superfan, I had high hopes for this one. Here’s what you need to know about the Naturium Vitamin C Complex Cleanser.

What is Naturium Vitamin C Complex Cleanser?

What is Naturium Vitamin C Complex Cleanser
What is Naturium Vitamin C Complex Cleanser

This is a gel cleanser designed to refresh and brighten the skin:

  • Works to removes makeup, oil and impurities
  • Uses two types of vitamin C to even out the skin and target pigmentation
  • Contains phytic acid and fruit enzymes to gently exfoliate dead skin cells
  • Leaves skin feeling fresh and smooth

How to use it

This gel cleanser can be used on dry or damp skin. You just need a couple of pumps to massage into the skin. If you want a more intense treatment, you can leave it on for five minutes before rinsing.

Naturium say that his can be used daily, however, I think it’s key to ensure you are not over-exfoliating the skin. So make sure you are avoid too many other exfoliating products at the same time.

Be sure to wear SPF during the day.

My Review

First Impressions

First of all, I really like the simple packaging and the pump dispenser. It is sleek and minimal, like all Naturium products, and I always love how easy and mess-free a pump makes things.

Naturium Vitamin C Complex Cleanser texture
Naturium Vitamin C Complex Cleanser texture

I really like the light gelee texture of this cleanser. It is really similar consistency to the Naturium Niacinamide Cleansing Gelee*. It has a luxurious feel and I like that you don’t really need to add water to get it to emulsify. It feels really gentle on my skin.

Naturium Vitamin C Complex Cleanser creamy lather
Naturium Vitamin C Complex Cleanser creamy lather

Once you add water, it becomes a light, creamy lather. It’s really enjoyable to use. It’s really refreshing and comfortable.

Naturium Vitamin C Complex Cleanser with more water added
Naturium Vitamin C Complex Cleanser with more water added

It doesn’t have a scent per se. There’s no classic citrussy smell, however, it kind of smells fragrance-free if you know what I mean? I don’t love the smell. It’s my least favourite thing about this cleanser.

Key Ingredients & Claims

Naturium promises a non-stripping, gentle cleanse while delivering the brightening benefits of vitamin C.

While this is formulated to be gentle, I do think it’s important to note that alongside Vitamin C, there are acid exfoliants, as well as enzymatic exfoliating ingredients in the formula, so just check you aren’t double exfoliating with any of your other products. You should probably avoid going in with an acid toner after using this, for example.

Here’s a quick look at the ingredients:

  • Vitamin C Complex (Ascorbic Acid & Ethyl Ascorbic Acid) – to help brighten skin tone and combat dullness
  • Ferulic Acid & Tocopherol (Vitamin E) – to stabilise and boost the effectiveness of vitamin C
  • Bromelain & Papain (From Pineapple & Papaya Extracts) – natural enzymes that gently exfoliate and promote a smoother complexion
  • Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate & Decyl Glucoside – mild surfactants that cleanse without stripping moisture
  • Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice & Sodium Hyaluronate – to hydrate and soothe
  • Phytic Acid & Citric Acid – for gentle exfoliation and help improve skin clarity.
  • Sunflower Seed Oil & Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride – helps to maintain the skin’s lipid barrier

Application & Experience

I have been using two pumps massaged it onto damp skin. The gel lathers up into a light, silky foam – nothing too frothy, but just enough to feel like you’re getting a thorough cleanse. It rinses away easily and leaves the skin feeling clean but not tight. It does make me feel as though I need to moisturise, and it isn’t the most hydrating cleanser I have used, but it doesn’t feel stripping.

A similar cleanser that’s perhaps more gentle and hydrating, but still has mild exfoliating properties is one of my all time favourite gel cleansers from Elemis. It is more expensive but absolutely divine. If you want more information on that, read: Elemis Pro-Collagen Energising Cleanser Review.

I really like how brightening this formula is. While I wouldn’t say it replaces a vitamin C serum in your routine, it’s a great way to incorporate an extra boost of antioxidants into your cleansing step. I think it will be great for a morning cleanse, as I think it lends itself well to a quick skin refresh and cleanse, rather than makeup removal.

If you’re looking for a richer cleansing formula for more heavy duty makeup removal, I love Naturium’s cleansing balm. For more information on that. check out my Naturium Purple Ginseng Cleansing Balm Review.

Final Thoughts

Overall, I think the Naturium Vitamin C Complex Cleanser is a fantastic option if you’re looking for a cleanser that supports brighter, healthier-looking skin. It’s affordable and packed with great ingredients, and will delivers a refreshing, exfoliating cleanse, especially for those with combination and oily skins. This may not be the best option if you have dry skin, however, it suits my combination skin well.

If you are still looking for a new cleanser, read: Best Cleansers for all Skin Types & Budgets.

Where to buy it

The Naturium Vitamin C Complex Cleanser is £20 for 210ml and available now via the link below:

Hello Kitty X Starface Collection Review

 
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Hello Kitty X Starface Collection Review

As a big fan of Hello Kitty, I was thrilled to hear about the Hello Kitty X Starface Collection. Here’s what you need to know.

What is in Hello Kitty X Starface Collection?

Hello Kitty X Starface Pimple Patches Refillable Case
Hello Kitty X Starface Pimple Patches Refillable Case

Here’s what’s included in the collection:

  • Reusable Collectible Compacts (£12.99) – featuring Hello Kitty, My Melody, and Kuromi, each filled with 32 hydrocolloid pimple patches in the shape of their characters
  • Refills (£9.99) – character-shaped hydrocolloid patches that absorb fluid, reduce inflammation, and shrink spots overnight
  • Hello Kitty Apple Star Balm (£6.99)- infused with shea butter, cocoa butter, and coconut oil for long-lasting hydration with a sweet apple scent inspired by Hello Kitty’s favourite flavour

My Review

This limited-edition collection blends the playful nostalgia of Sanrio’s Hello Kitty with Starface’s fun and functional skincare approach. From adorable pimple patches in a collectible case to a deliciously scented Apple Star Balm, this launch is all about making self-care a little cuter.

Hello Kitty X Starface Pimple Patches
Hello Kitty X Starface Pimple Patches

I’ll be honest, I don’t often use pimple patches these days because I rarely get spots (thank goodness) but this super cute set has actually made me want to get a spot!! Maybe I will just wear them for fun!

I absolutely love the collectible compact that the hydrocolloid pimple patches come in. It has a little mirror, so it will be perfect for my handbag, even if I don’t use the patches! I just need to make sure I don’t mix it up with my Airpods case!

Hello Kitty X Starface Pimple Patches Refills
Hello Kitty X Starface Pimple Patches Refills

If you do get spots, these patches use hydrocolloid technology and work wonders by absorbing impurities and speeding up healing. The case is refillable, so make sure you also pick up some backups!

Hello Kitty X Starface Star Balm Apple
Hello Kitty Star Balm Apple

The Hello Kitty x Starface Apple Star Balm lip balm is also gorgeous, and has gone straight into my handbag. It is sweet and fresh and there is something about applying a Hello Kitty lip balm on the go that just makes me happy!

Hello Kitty X Starface Star Balm Apple
Hello Kitty X Starface Star Balm Apple

Where to buy it

The Hello Kitty X Starface Collection is selling fast but you can still shop it now via the link below:

If you’re a fan of overnight treatments, check out: Biodance Bio Collagen-Real Deep Mask Review.

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Biodance Bio Collagen-Real Deep Mask Review

 
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Skin

7 Feb 2025 (Updated: 9 Feb 2025)

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Biodance Bio Collagen-Real Deep Mask Review

Everyone is talking about Collagen Masks right now, and if you love a good sheet mask moment, then the Biodance Bio Collagen-Real Deep Mask is one to pop on your radar. It promises deep hydration, plumping, and that coveted glass-skin effect. I’ve given it a go, and here’s the full lowdown!

What is Biodance Bio Collagen-Real Deep Mask?

What is Biodance Bio Collagen-Real Deep Mask
What is Biodance Bio Collagen-Real Deep Mask

This promises to be an all in one mask treatment for hydration, elasticity and the appearance of pores:

  • Contains 150,000ppm of probiotics, collagen, and hyaluronic acid
  • 3 different kinds of probiotics to strengthen the skin’s barrier and prevent skin ageing
  • Ultra-low molecular collagen maximises skin penetration and absorption
  • Refines enlarged pores
  • Improves skin elasticity instantly after application
  • Visibly smooths out the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
  • Uses oligo-hyaluronic acid believed to be superior to regular hyaluronic acid
  • Clinically tested for hydration, elasticity, and pore care
  • Skin hypoallergenic test completed

Key Ingredients

Probiotics – 3 different kinds of probiotics to strengthen skin

Collagen – ultra-low molecular collagen to refine enlarged pores, improve skin elasticity instantly after application and visibly smooth out the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles

Hyaluronic Acid – oligo-hyaluronic quickly hydrates the skin’s surface and penetrates deeper layers of skin for a healthy and moisturised complexion.

My Review of

Biodance Bio Collagen-Real Deep Mask just applied
Biodance Bio Collagen-Real Deep Mask just applied

I bought a box of these masks from Amazon when I was in the office with the girls and we were all talking about overnight masks. The idea of waking up to glass skin was irresistible.

First Impressions

I really like the packaging. You get 4 masks in the box and they are easy to use.

The material feels high-quality, and it adheres to the skin beautifully without slipping and sliding around (a pet peeve of mine!). It gives a lovely cooling sensation that feels ultra-soothing. It sits comfortably on the skin, making it a great excuse for a self-care moment.

I know people that have worn these overnight, and I have tried this twice, but I just can’t sleep the whole night with a mask on my face! The 2nd time I tried it, I did managed to keep it on until it had gone transparent, which is apparently the aim, but I ended up removing it in the middle of the night, so if there was a big glass skin moment, I missed it!

Biodance Bio Collagen-Real Deep Mask after use
Biodance Bio Collagen-Real Deep Mask after use

Having said that, the following morning, my skin was nice and plump and smooth. It felt moisturised, but it wasn’t all glossy and shiny like I was hoping for.

My skin the following morning after Biodance Bio Collagen-Real Deep Mask
My skin the following morning after Biodance Bio Collagen-Real Deep Mask

I do think it has a good effect on fine lines, but I don’t think these give the long lasting results I was hoping for. I’d say it’s a quick-fix treatment rather than a long-term skin solution.

Final Verdict

Would I use it again? Absolutely! The Biodance Bio Collagen-Real Deep Mask is a fabulous skin pick-me-up, perfect for an event or when your complexion needs an immediate boost but I think this will have to be a day time treatment for me. I am going to use the last 2 masks I have at a time when I know that I have 3 or 4 hours when I can wear it, and I want to be awake for the moment I take it off!!

If you’re looking for a glass skin effect but without the wait time, I have been loving the latest launch from Medik8, Liquid Collagen Advanced MP.* You can read more about that in my Medik8 Review: My Top Picks 2025 post.

Where to buy it

The Biodance Bio Collagen-Real Deep Mask is available now in the UK via the links below:

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