I Tried Element Eight’s Celeb-Approved Oxygen Facial in a Bottle
"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links."
Pros
Improves the skin’s regenerative processes
Enhances cell metabolism
Fragrance-free
Cons
Pricey
Doesn't currently include SPF
Are you truly a beauty enthusiast in the digital age if you’ve never been influenced to try something after scrolling through TikTok? That’s how I was introduced to skincare brand Element Eight, a favorite for backstage prep at Fashion Week and in celebrity glam rooms alike.
Here is what makes the line so sought-after: A team of top scientists, doctors, and surgeons joined together to develop Element Eight, whose products are powered by a proprietary complex of oxygen carriers mimicking the function of hemoglobin in the blood. The process aims to reduce fine lines and even out the skin’s texture while boosting its hydration level and elasticity.
My skin barrier was recently damaged, after I trialed too many products at once, so I was curious about Element Eight’s reparative claims in particular. I gave up all my other skincare products to see how using just the brand’s bestsellers would affect my skin.
How I Tested
To thoroughly test the brand’s claims, my skincare routine consisted (almost—see below) exclusively of Element Eight products for two weeks. Some quick background: I have combination skin that leans toward the dry side, save for an occasionally oily T-zone. I consistently used the brand's O2 Niacinamide (hydrating gel with eight actives), O2 Peptide (firming moisturizer), O2 Squalane (skin repair moisturizer), O2 Hyaluronic Acid (hydrating cream), and O2 Caffeine (eye cream) in both my daytime and nighttime regimens.
Each morning after cleansing with warm water and misting on my DIY rosewater facial mist, I’d apply the O2 Hyaluronic Acid cream while my skin was still damp. Next, I used Element Eight’s O2 Caffeine eye cream, which happens to be one of my favorites. The bottle is larger than many popular eye creams I’ve used in the past, and a little truly does go a long way. Half a pump is more than enough for both eyes, and the formula feels extremely hydrating. And since the cream is fragrance-free, it’s great for my sensitive eyes and helps me effortlessly appear more dewy, well rested, and awake. To finish my routine, I sealed in all the skincare goodness with the O2 Squalane. Since the brand doesn’t have a sunscreen yet, I did deviate from the plan just a bit, to keep my skin protected with one of my tried-and-true SPFs.
During my evening skincare routine, I really take my time and lean into the ritual of self-care. I first wash the day off by double cleansing: an oil cleanser of my choice followed by a foaming one. After applying my facial mist again, I layered the O2 Hyaluronic Acid and O2 Niacinamide, followed by the O2 Peptide. As a treat, I’d also go to town on my face and neck with my jade roller, which is not only relaxing, but also makes it even easier for my skin to soak in the love.
Ease of Use
Each product in the Element Eight line is straightforward about what it targets, which makes everything extremely easy to use. The application was always a joy, and the brand’s core products seamlessly blended into my routine. I don’t always have the time or budget to take a trip to the spa for a professional treatment. A skincare collection that yields high-end results and happens to be accessible from the comfort of home is a big plus in my book.
Price/Value
Initially, I was a bit put off by the brand’s price tag—which ladders up to $325—because I simply don’t want to spend an arm and a leg on anything in my skincare routine. But I decided to reframe my thinking and look at Element Eight’s price point as a meaningful investment in my skin’s overall health. Knowing that experts like the head of dermatology at Cedars-Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles—among many other doctors, scientists, and beauty professionals—helped formulate the products only makes my experience using them feel more luxe. Plus, as I mentioned, a little goes a long way, even if you’re using the products daily.
Verdict
One thing I use as a litmus test of a skincare product’s compatibility with my skin is how my face feels au naturel after I’ve tested a product for a while: Is it noticeably drier after using the product? Do my pores look clogged? Am I seeing more bumps and flare-ups even weeks after testing a product?
I didn’t experience any of those negatives—in fact, quite the opposite. After using Element Eight for over two weeks, my skin has an ethereal glow that stays put—similar to the dewiness you get from an infrared sauna. My skin looks more plump, and the dry tightness I’d previously felt after using other products went away completely. I definitely plan to repurchase my core Element Eight favorites once I’ve reached empties status. I’m specifically eyeing the O2 Caffeine, O2 Niacinamide, and O2 Hyaluronic Acid—which would be my edit of must-haves, if you’re curious to try the brand yourself.
Final rating: 4.8/5
Element Eight is available to shop at elementeight.com, and at retailers like Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom.
You Might Also Like
