Since discovering the ever popular Hylamide serums on Instagram two years ago, I have enjoyed becoming familiar with the brands and formulas launched by DECIEM, Canada’s self-proclaimed ‘Abnormal Beauty Company.’ The highlight of last year was my December visit to its Toronto headquarters, during which I was invited to participate in an educational store visit. P.S. How soon can we do an encore, Mira?
Surrounded by the smart, passionate, and super welcoming DECIEM crew, the under-one-roof operations truly blew my mind. Starting with a lab (with fridges, microscopes, vials and everything!), I actually saw the formulas being tested and developed. In a separate section of the building that houses production, I observed hundreds of dropper bottles spin on a conveyor belt, labels get applied, boxes assembled, and shipping labels created before all the DECIEM goodness begins its journey to you. Upstairs, a work space accented with witty meme worthy inspo quotes on the walls make for a trendy and encouraging office environment.
Everything comes across as incredibly appealing: impressive formulas, intriguing packaging, and clever marketing. DECIEM offers a plethora of options to address issues ranging from anti-aging skincare conundrums, glow-inducing supplements, body issues and every hair dilemma facing you. My advice for those exploring? Assess your goals, harness the expectations, and don’t overdo it.
This post was originally intended to be a rundown (or a round-up if you prefer) of my recent DECIEM explorations with ten brands in their genius portfolio. At the risk a blog entry becoming a sequel to ‘War and Peace,’ I will talk NIOD today. Next time: The Ordinary. Some posts will be meatier than others but all will cover my impressions with a focus on a particular range, grooming concern, or ingredient.
If you’re in your twenties and looking for a second opinion, check out Jason’s well-thought out musings at inthenameofskin.com. If you’re my age or older, go to YouTube where Tracey from FightingFifty.co.uk has created concise reviews of many NIOD formulas.
Non-Acid Acid Precursor 15% or NAAP
Free of the traditional resurfacing agents I usually swoon over, like AHA, BHA or Retinol, this PM only treatment is an incredible option for anyone with skin sensitivities. The unique blend of fermentation bio-derivatives and amino isolates found in this potent yet non-aggressive treatment, effectively mimics acid behavior and delivers smooth, refined, and even toned skin over time.
For those of you who layer, use NAAP after your copper, hyaluronic acid, or vitamin c formulas. If you’re a fan of Hydration Vaccine, use that over the NAAP as the final step. You will definitely notice a difference, but I recommend you start every other night to acclimate the skin to this newness. Barely fragrant, the fast absorbing opaque’ish serum is almost lotion like. I tend to enjoy dropper bottles but for some reason, NIOD just begs for pump dispensers. $55 (30ml)
Sanskrit Saponins
I have covered this cleanser briefly in another post, but this product deserves constant shout-outs. Lightweight in texture, this uber deep cleansing paste goes on damp skin and performs serious miracles. Fueled by highly concentrated, unrefined Ayurvedic plant surfactants, it cleans deep within the pore and removes all dirt, excess oil, and bacteria that compromises the skin. Yes, the metal tube is temperamental and triggers continuous overflow of the product at times, but it’s so good that I’d buy it in a paper bag. $28 (90ml) or $50 (180ml)
Mastic Must
This daytime mask is an excellent extension of Sanskrit Saponins and a God send for anyone struggling with constantly clogged pores. Smooth and creamy, the formula is heavily infused with purifying sap from Greek mastic trees. Anti-bacterial and anti-fungal, this astonishing botanical binds to congestion and somehow neither attracts oil nor water. After wiping your pores clean, you’ll notice the reduction in visibility and count. Apply a thick layer on clean skin, rinse with water ten minutes later, and follow up with a blow dryer on the warm setting for fifteen seconds. No joke. Your skin will look filtered all day long. You’re welcome. $39 (90ml)
Voicemail Masque
As a huge believer in masks, I cannot get enough of NIOD’s innovative concoctions. The twice weekly break for your skin is a detox of sorts and allows for your complexion to regroup and strengthen while at its most restful state – sleep. Featuring multiple plant stem cells, polyphenols, and Hyaluronic Acid, this leave-on treatment goes over any light serum you enjoy and performs best without anything layered over it. What to expect by morning? Plumper, firmer and visibly brighter skin. Not recommended for very oily complexions. $45 (50ml)
Real talk: the pill bottle jar looks precious but is not the most practical packaging option, especially when you hit the halfway mark. Keep a longer spatula or a narrow spoon close by for application purposes. The scents of most NIOD products definitely qualify as ‘acquired taste.’ Slightly medicinal but at the same time quite herbal, they come across as a prescription potion from a doctor… but in the Amazonian village. Slightly earthy but clean and fresh at the same time, the aromas are one of a kind. I cannot get enough of them.
Photography Fluid Tan, Opacity 8%
Delivering a dewy bronze glow finish, the NIOD Photography Fluid Tan beats any Instagram filter known to man. This tinted serum with its subtle iridescent effect reflects the light just enough without looking tinny. Utilizing high-tech pigment suspension technology, the color payoff is lasting, natural (golden NOT orange) and significantly improves the appearance of your skin, especially in photographs. Don’t be afraid of the strong copper hue; the fluid is actually very sheer when you’re applying it. A perfect top off to that chalky sunscreen, it cancels out the unattractive white cast effect found in so many SPF formulas. $32 (30ml)
Available at niod.com.
*press samples
This is a fantastic review, thank you!