The weather is starting to change, my sailing season is officially done, and autumn is officially here – my favorite season. What also will be starting to show is all of the sun damage that may have occurred over the summer. For those of you who do tan, you may be noticing that there are darker splotches or patches as the color fades. And for those of us who normally burn, you may notice freckles or dark spots that are suddenly appearing. Serums are one of the best products to tackle specific skin challenges, as they are concentrated and packed with active ingredients. I normally switch up my skincare routine between winter and summer, and fall is the perfect transition period to make those product updates. So, I looked for a serum that had claimed to address uneven tone and dark spots, as I noticed I have a bit of sun damage on my cheeks from being outdoors this summer. I’d been asked by a friend to review the Onomie brand before, and after researching their formulas and skincare approach, I decided to give them a try. I’ve now used their Powerful Priming Serum since mid-August, and here’s my thoughts after 45 days of use:

1. The formula is a clinical-grade blend of natural plant extracts and Vitamin C, which is one of the things that appealed to me about the brand. These extracts, like Willowbark, are known to increase collagen production, hydration, even skin tone, and improve texture. However, the product has an added shimmer (mica) to the product, which I had to get a bit used to. After using this product for a while, I found I could actually do without the shimmer. Yes, it helps to blur fine lines and add radiance to the skin, but I’m not sure it’s what I want in full face coverage. I prefer to add shimmer with a highlighter where wanted.
2. The product’s packaging dispenses just the right amount for a full face application. I have also used additional pumps to apply on my neck and chest. I have also found that my arms and backs of my hands have some dark spots (presumably from hours out on the water), so I’ve been liberally applying to help even tone overall. I recommend using serums that have pump packaging, as it seals the product against bacteria and air (oxidation). This keeps the product hygienic and fresh, without adding the risk of causing breakouts.
3. Speaking of breakouts, I noticed that within the first two weeks of use that I developed a few small pimples along my cheeks and jaw. But that is to be expected, as a product that increases cellular turnover will naturally “purge” the skin of any blockages or debris that may be embedded within pores. This usually calms down, once the skin has had a chance to settle into the new product and the fresher cells begin to emerge. Tip: if you do experience persistent breakouts, or if you notice suddenly that you have a rash or a worsening breakout, then stop application.

Another selling point of the serum claimed that it was a priming serum, meaning that it would help makeup last longer. I did not find that to be the case for me. I’m a sensitive/combination skin type, and often experience an oily T-zone – I didn’t find that using this primer made my foundation last that much longer than I’m normally used to. My final results with using this serum for the last two months is that I’ve noticed a subtle change in the overall tone of my skin, which is what I wanted due to the darker spots on my cheeks. And my skin felt hydrated and smooth.

One important point that I do want to highlight with this (and any serum that contains Vitamin C or exfoliating ingredients like Willowbark) is that you need to wear a minimum of SPF 15 during the day to protect skin for this to be effective. Otherwise, you will not see progress on the benefits of tone correction and reducing fine lines.  Vitamin C can also make your skin more sensitive to sun exposure, so it’s best to protect against further damage.

Overall, I think it’s a solid serum, and I especially like the approach that this brand uses with a blend of nature and science. Onomie features a blog on their website, in which they feature articles from estheticians and topics such as stress relief. They offer bundles of products, and also a subscription service; which is a smart way to try a regimen and also ensure that you won’t run out of product – especially since this only sold online, or in their NYC showroom. I think this brand has a lot of promise going forward – I like their indie yet educated approach, and I think we’ll continue to see great product innovation come from them!

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