Liquid gold for my skin – The Naruko Supreme Rejuvenating Elixir Oil
Written By Jenny Wu on
Y’all know when I describe something as “liquid gold” that means it’s f*cking fantastic, and that’s definitely the case with the Naruko Supreme Rejuvenating Elixir Oil, which coincidentally (…or not?????) actually looks like liquid gold!
- What is it
- A facial oil that’s 80% nourishing oils and 20% essence with an easy-to-absorb texture that penetrates deep to instantly soften, revitalize and brighten our skin.
- How I use it
- Shake vigorously to mix the oil and essence, then massage 3-4 drops all over the face either directly after cleansing (as a first essence) or during my serum step, mornings and evenings.
- Best suited for
- All skin types, especially those who want to use oils but hate the heavy feeling and shiny finish.
- Irritants
- Free of parabens, alcohol, mineral oil, and artificial fragrances. None of the ingredients are shown to be comedogenic, but it does contain a buttload of plant extracts and a few essential oils, so be careful if you’re sensitive to those.
- Packaging
- A beautiful dropper bottle with gold print. I’m loving this gold-on-gold thing here. And let’s not forget the fancy ass box it comes in!
- Scent
- A light, soothing floral scent from the mix of oils and plant extracts. Ahhh yes.
- Texture
- Very light and watery. It’s definitely the lightest of all the oils I’ve tried to date.
- Finish
- A completely natural, 99% shine-free finish.
- Size & Price
- $40.99 for 30ml
- Where to buy
- Naruko USA, eBay (free worldwide shipping from Taiwan), Naruko Canada
Key Ingredients
- Actuat E60® – A blend of 60 different botanical extracts that combines the benefits of eastern herbs with western aromatherapy. Not only does it helps relax the senses, but the synergy helps boost the brightening, hydrating, and firming effects on the skin.
- Abyssinian Oil – An ultra light oil rich that’s easily absorbed by the skin. Rich in fatty acids, this oil helps soften and moisturize the skin while diminishing the appearance of fine lines (source).
- Squalane – Derived from olives, this fast-absorbing oil is very similar to the natural sebum our skin produces. Not only is it moisturizing, it’s also a great source of antioxidants to prevent UV damage, eg. fine lines and dark spots (source)!
- Argan Oil – Rich in vitamin e, antioxidants, and fatty acids, it helps moisturize and increase skin elasticity. Because who doesn’t like bouncy skin?
- Meadowfoam Seed Oil – An oil that’s very similar to Jojoba Oil in that it mimics our skin’s natural sebum. As with the other oils, it can help moisturize and soften our skin. It’s also an excellent antioxidant, and can extend the shelf life of other blended ingredients (source).
- Buriti Oil – One of the richest sources of beta-carotene (even more than carrot seed oil!), it also includes vitamin e, vitamin c, and fatty acids to help nourish the skin and delay aging (source).
- Babassu Oil – Another excellent oil with moisturizing properties. Research has shown that it can help prevent moisture loss, improve the our lipid barrier skin, and soothe our skin (source).
- Marula Oil – A lightweight, fast-absorbing oil, it actually contains 60% more antioxidants than many other oils, including argan (source)! So you know it’s a beast at moisturizing, softening, and nourishing the skin.
- Sacha Inci Oil – Extremely high in linoleic acid, it’s an excellent oil for combo/oily skin types and it can help even out our skin tone (in addition to all the other awesome benefits oil offers). (source)
- Rosehip Seed Oil – A well known superstar oil with vitamin A, C, E, and fatty acids that can brighten, moisturize, and nourish your skin.
- Sunflower Seed Oil – A great oil with anti-inflammatory properties that can help repair our skin’s barrier and prevent moisture loss (source).
- Rosewood Oil – An oil with antibacterial properties (source). It has a naturally sweet and woody fragrance, and is used in aromatherapy for its antidepressant properties.
- Ubiquinone/CoQ10 – An enzyme with antioxidant properties, it also helps in the production of collagen and elastin (source). A must have for maintaining young bouncy skin.
- Vitamin E – An antioxidant that helps moisturize, protect, and soften the skin. It also acts as a natural preservative in skincare products.
- Cyclopentasiloxane – The first ingredient is actually a lightweight, non-comedogenic silicone that helps deliver ingredients into our skin while giving the product a light silky texture (source).
You can view the full ingredient list on CosDNA, which actually lists out all the extracts in Actuat E60®. Boy that list was a b*tch to type out.
Saying that there are a ton of facial oil products on the market is an understatement, but if you look at their ingredients, you’ll mostly find common oils like jojoba, olive, and avocado. Not saying those oils are bad, but I do appreciate Naruko for selecting these less common (yet fabulous!) oils creating something that’s significantly different.
But great ingredients are only great if the product works for your skin, and let me tell you, my skin f*cking loves this. The bi-phase formula feels so light and silky, and it’s by far the fastest absorbing oil I’ve ever used, leaving minimal shine behind.
Let me tell you, my skin feels like marshmallows after I massage this in. Soft bouncy non-shiny marshmallows #skincaregoals. Other oils leave my skin soft, but not this soft, and definitely not shine-free. I know this sounds crazy, but it actually feels like all the ingredients are going into my skin rather than just sitting on the surface!
Recommended Reading: Love face oils? Here are 5 new ways to use them
While I haven’t noticed any brightening effects, my skin has definitely gotten softer and smoother as I continued using the Naruko Supreme Rejuvenating Elixir Oil, and I’m talking I-can’t-stop-touching-my-face-all-day soft here. I also haven’t experienced any negative effects – no redness, no product conflicts, no breakouts, none. And you wonder why I call this liquid gold in a bottle? Seriously, this can do no wrong in my eyes. Yes the regular price of $90 for 30ml is a little outrageous, but so are the results, and I will buy this as long as Naruko has any kind of sale on it (which is literally always).
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Packaging
9
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Ingredients
9.5
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Texture/Application
10
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Performance
9.5
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Price
8
If your ideal skin is that of a marshmallow (honestly that's a pretty damn good goal), then you need this oil in your routine. All other facial oils have lost their appeal to me since using this (except for the Odacite booster serums because they're so unique), and it's now become a must-have in my routine, as well as my favorite Naruko product to date, by far. Definitely repurchasing!!
Hope you guys enjoyed this review, and let me know if you’ve tried any products with any of these uncommon oils (see key ingredients above) before! This is my first time trying a lot of these oils, and so far it’s been a fabulous ❤️ Have a lovely rest of the week + weekend!
Passionate about science-based skincare. Tested hundreds if not thousands of products since my 20's. Working regularly with brands like iHerb, Ulta, CurrentBody, and MedStar Health to share my knowledge and experience in all things beauty. Learn more.
Skin profile: 35+, dry/combination, focused on well-aging, hydration, and a healthy glow ✨
Comments & Questions
Stephanie
Your blog always has the most interesting skincare products to read about!! I'm intrigued by this brand - have never heard or tried it out but now I'm kind of sold!
Jenny Wu
Thank you Stephanie! I love discovering and sharing lesser known brands on the blog, especially if they work well :)
Mili
OOoh this sound sso lux! I've been using the hyggee balance oil essence lately and it's the opposite of this: 80% essence and 20% oil (at least I think it is...) I've been interested in trying Naruko products but didn't really know where to start-- I'm definitely putting this one on my wish list! I'm happy to see that they always have sales cause $90 is quite pricey--especially for a mid-tier Asian beauty brand!
Mili | Sharmtoaster
Jenny Wu
Ooo, that Hyggee oil reminds me of the Goodal Water Oil, which really felt like a serum more than an oil! For Naruko, I prefer their sheet masks and products in the Creme of Jing Chen line (which include this oil and their first essence), and definitely recommend those when they have a sale!
Mel
Love these skin care products!
www.pennyanddash.com
Jenny Wu
Glad to hear that Mel, thanks for stopping by :)
Camilla @Gracefulface.com
Oh my goodness, this is definitely going into my next naruko haul. It sounds perfect!!! Marshmallow skin please!!!
Jenny Wu
Yes to marshmallow skin!! Hope that it works just as well for you as it did for me!
Amy
Anything called liquid gold, I'm sold! Great product review, babe.
xx, Amy
http://www.theluxilook.com
Jenny Wu
Only save the best labels for the best products :P Glad you liked the review, thank you for reading Amy!
Shireen L. Platt
I just checked this oil on Naruko Canada and it's C$115! Holy mother of God and there's no sale! Grr! I have not seen you this excited about a product before so I know this must be seriously good. I will add this into my list to buy....probably will get the massive side eye when my husband sees the price but hey, it's liquid f*cking gold. LOL!
Jenny Wu
Errrr....I mean the oil is good but damn that's expensive! At this point it might make more sense to just make a big order ($150 for free shipping) from the US Naruko store. If the price of this oil was $90 with no sales, that definitely would've knocked my excitement down a notch, and my husband would be MAJOR side eying me as well, hahaha
Tiffany
Would you still use toner and essence after applying this oil?
Jenny Wu
Hi Tiffany, it depends on when in the routine you use this oil. If you refer to my 5 new ways to use facial oils post can use it as the first step after cleansing, you can use your toner and essence after this. If you use this like a regular facial oil, then your toner/esence would come first.
Shivangi
Loved reading your post! It was so informative! And hell yes liquid gold means it’s f*cking fantastic! :)
XO,
Shivangi
www.outoncatwalk.com
Jenny Wu
Thank you so much for reading Shivangi, glad you enjoyed it! :D
Laura
This sounds beautiful! I haven't heard about the brand before. I love beauty oils so it will go into my wish list x
Laura
Pink Frenzy
Jenny Wu
Naruko's sheet masks are fantastic too, and so is their first essence if you're interested :) Thank you so much for reading Laura!
Laura
Jenny I love your reviews! I tend to babble a lot, but I love it when you get straight to the point, clearly explaining the ingredients, who is the oil for, etc. I truly admire the work and effort you put in your reviews. The pictures are gorgeous as always! I didn't know Naruko had a US website, I must take a look at it right away.
xx Laura / Laurantaina Beauty Blog
Jenny Wu
Aww, thank you so much Laura, really appreciate your sweet comment! I easily go off tangent as well, which is why I have the breakdown at the beginning to get the important parts out of the way :P Naruko US does free international shipping for orders $150+, so it's great if you want to do a big (or even group) haul!
little luxury list
I came over from Shireen's site after she reviewed the Naruko essence. how have I not heard of it? i love the extensive, but natural ingredient list and will definitely be on the lookout for this. Hopefully it's easy to find here! It's great to discover your blog as well!
Jenny Wu
Thank you so much dear! The entire Naruko Creme of Jing Chen line uses extensive plant extracts, and while I've only tried the first essence and this oil, both are fantastic :) If you can't find it locally, the US Naruko store does ship internationally. Good luck!
Kasie Chelanne
This oil sounds absolutely fabulous. I've yet to find an oil my skin responds well to, but I haven't given up hope yet. I'll have to try this!
Jenny Wu
Thanks for reading Kasie! If you do get a chance to try this out I hope you'll get the same great results I did! It truly feels amazing on the skin!
Lavanya
What a beautifully detailed and comprehensive review! I've realised that oils give me milia, so I've stopped using them but something with a lightweight consistency like this might help for the winter months.
Jenny Wu
Thank you so Lavanya! While I've never gotten milia from oils, I do break out if they're too heavy, and that definitely hasn't happened with this one. Hopefully you'll get great results too if you do decide try this out!
LindaLibraLoca
Just what I need, another facial oil to obsess over. They are a staple in my routine,but with the tiny amount of product you need I barely ever finish one, so I just can't justify buying more and more.
Linda, Libra, Loca: Beauty, Baby and Backpacking
Jenny Wu
I know what you mean, I feel that way whenever I scroll through my Instagram feed or blog hop! Since this oil is so light I'm more liberal with my usage, plus it's great for when I want to give myself a facial massage :) But you're right, even with my more liberal use it'll still be a while before I can finish this bottle.
Marina Rosie
To be honest, I'd like my skin to feel like marshmallows too Jenny, this serum looks fabulous. And the way it absorbed into your skin! x Fabulous post hun,
Lots of love,
Marina Rosie x
http://marinawriteslife.blogspot.fr/
Jenny Wu
Thank you so much Marina! I don't think anyone can say no to soft, bouncy, marshmallow skin! :P
Cat L.
Jenny, I could totally see why you're calling this liquid called for the skin. The list of ingredients is impressive and I love the finish, the way it absorbed onto your skin. I have been tempted by this brand in the past, primarily due to your amazing reviews. I am a big fan of oils in general so as soon as I finish some of my existing ones, I'd like to try this Naruko one and the Odacite you reviewed a few posts ago. Stunning photos and great review!
~ Cat L.
www.CatsDailyLiving.com
Jenny Wu
Thank you so much Cat! Naruko has so many lines under their brand, but their Creme of Jin Cheng line (which includes this oil and the first essence) has been my favorite by far. The texture, ingredients, and results far exceed their other products, which I guess explains the price point :P Odacite is wonderful for spot treatment and targeted application as well, so I'm able to use these oils in the same routine without it being too much. Would love to hear your thoughts if you ever try them!
Jasmine
I've never heard of this brand but this oil sounds like a fantastic product. Thank you for sharing your honest thoughts.
Jaz xoxo
http://www.thelifeofasocialbutterfly.co.uk
Jenny Wu
You're welcome Jasmine, thank you so much for reading!!
Amy
Wow this sounds like a great oil, I'd love to try this!
Amy - http://amyevans.blog
Jenny Wu
It's definitely one of the best oils I've tried so far. Thanks for reading Amy!
Face to Curls
This sounds like such a gorgeous oil and anything with the word liquid gold in it has to be good right? I’m intrigued by this brand as I've heard you and Shireen raved about it and that can only be a good thing. xx
Ann-Marie | http://facetocurls.com
Jenny Wu
Between the actual look of the oil and its results, liquid gold definitely was the most fitting description I had :P I haven't read any other reviews on this oil, but I know that everyone who has tried Naruko's essence has raved about it. Their sheet masks are fantastic too!
Kayla
This has nothing to do with the oil! But I've been struggling with body acne, and i was wondering if you know any washes to help with it?!
Jenny Wu
Hmm, maybe look for a body wash with salicylic acid in it? Neutrogena's Body Clear Body Wash has it and it worked well for me I used it many years ago.
Sasha
Thanks for this splendid review. I too just bought this oil and I love the light texture and absorbency. The aroma is citrusy like cologne (actual cologne, as in I just sniff-tested it next to some 4711 and was struck by the similarity). It leaves a smooth enough texture that I'm considering using it lightly under my sunscreen and makeup, in the "first essence" manner you describe elsewhere. Your Australian readers might like to know that the very reputable website www.narukoaustralia.com has this for $50. (Not affiliated, just a happy customer.) They also sell the Naruko Jing Cheng cleansing balm with sparkles in it. :)
Jenny Wu
Thank you for sharing your review on this Sasha! I actually haven't noticed the citrusy note, but then again my sense of smell isn't the sharpest, but I'll be sure to check next time I use it! Unfortunately the Naruko Australia site you linked to isn't loading for me :(
Huey Wong
I got myself a bottle after reading your review and boy, i agree with you. I love this oil and will put it on whenever i feel like it. I am now hooked and want to try the whole Jing Cheng range! Thank you for sharing this great review, Jenny!
Jenny
I'm so glad you like the oil!! The essence is also quite nice if that's something you're interested in, I liked it better than the brightening enhancer which I also tried, but I'm not a fan of.
Samantha
Hi, can this be used as eye cream alternative?
Jenny Wu
You can use this around your eyes, but this won't help lock in moisture. So if your eye area is really dry, I still recommend using an eye cream.
Ayeza Kate Sabitsana
I agree with you.. i’ve been using this product for 4 mos now and it’s perfectly blend to my skin. And i can see the result straight away, no drama.. I just use it in the night time coz I’m saving it, bit pricey ???? but worth the money.. girls! you should invest in this product and stick to it.. you won’t regret it.. i am purchasing another bottle next month..
Jenny Wu
Glad to hear you're getting great results!
Blake
Rose, bitter orange peel, carageenan, witch hazel, ginger...NONE are good for the skin. I am sorry, but are you a dermatologist?
Jenny Wu
Are you? I never claimed to be one, nor did I claim any of those ingredients you listed are good. The only thing I'm doing is sharing my experience with this product. Also love how you're ignoring all the other beneficial ingredients and focusing on the essential oils which are all in concentrations of less than 1%. If you're so offended by EO's, go find something that's fragrance free, it's not that hard.
Lastly I'm not sure where you got the idea that carageenan is bad for the skin because it actually has water-binding properties: https://www.paulaschoice.com/ingredient-dictionary/plant-extracts/carrageenan.html
Jenny Wu
Some more skincare knowledge for you, ginger extract is actually good for the skin too: https://www.paulaschoice.com/ingredient-dictionary/skin-soothing/ginger-extract.html
Blake
No offense was meant. The general consumer doesn’t have access to the actual percentages of ingredients, so it was my oversight on the low percentage of the essential oil blend — although seldom are these good for the skin.
As a physician, carrageenan is an ingredient I ask people to eliminate given the untoward effects on the gastrointestinal tract and it’s link to certain cancers.
I love Paula Begoun, but she is not a physician. And I don’t mean to diminish in any way her monumental empire she has worked so diligently for, but her research has been limited solely on dermatologic care. Depending on use of these products with other skincare techniques, like microneedling, you can achieve some systemic absorption of carrageenan, which may increase the body’s risk of inflammation.
Lastly, be mindful of what evidence we DO have. Seldom will people sign up for studies where risk is known =).
I appreciate your honest reviews. I ordered items from this Naruko brand (sheet masks and your “liquid gold”). I was hopeful to see someone as science drive would have loved Saint Jane, as it was a product I was considering in the use of my entry level facials.
Jenny Wu
I understand that essential oils can be potentially irritating and some people prefer not to use it, which is why I always list them in irritants. If they are listed above any preservatives (which are typically limited to 1%), I will stress them again in my reviews as that is higher than I'd like to see them. Since these are not I didn't feel the need to call them out multiple times, especially given the plenty of beneficial ingredients this contains.
I think there needs to be some distinction between what's beneficial consumed vs topically applied. While Paula isn't a physician, she does cite reputable journals to back up her ingredient claims from a dermatological perspective, which is my only concern when it comes to reviewing skincare products. You bring up a good point about microneedling enhancing absorption and it's something I will read into more.
The issue with skincare is that we can only derive so much from the ingredients listed and their relevant research. Without completely understand the formula and knowing the % behind the ingredients, reviews will always be subjective. It's interesting that you bring up the Saint Jane Serum as it has several essential oils as well, though the % is unknown since there are no preservatives to act as a benchmark. I had high hopes for the Saint Jane serum myself, but like I did find it overpriced for the results I saw.