Nobody amplifies the feeling of “not doing enough” quite like social media. With an already overwhelming array of beauty products out there, constant reminders about the latest and greatest can leave even the most enthusiastic skincare lover feeling paralyzed. The frustration is real. Self-care fatigue is a thing. While I’m no mental health expert, I’ve found that stepping back and embracing simplicity can do wonders. This year, I’m leaning into that mindset—and Bonjout Le Balm has quickly become a staple in my routine.
What Is Le Balm?
Le Balm is like an elevated moisturizer. It’s not trying to do the most; instead, it makes you feel like you’re doing your best. This solid balm is marketed as a serum, but to me, it’s an exceptional multitasking moisturizer. It’s a luxurious all-in-one solution that doubles as your face cream, eye cream, lip balm, SOS treatment for dry patches, and even a makeup primer.
Can it replace every step in your routine? Not for me—my skin thrives on water-based layers—but for travel, Le Balm is a dream. And yes, it’s suitable for all skin types, making it the ultimate self-care companion.
What’s in This Multitasker?
A quick note about the mastermind behind it: Dr. Natacha Bonjout, a French pharmacist (Doctor of Pharmacy), chemist, and product development expert, created Le Balm with precision and purpose. This 8-in-1 serum/moisturizer hybrid features 99.2% naturally derived ingredients and no added water (the technical term is “anhydrous”). There’s also no added fragrance—synthetic or otherwise—and no parabens.
Le Balm is powered by 68 active compounds designed to repair the skin barrier and improve its overall appearance. While the INCI list includes 25 ingredients, many of those contain multiple bioavailable compounds. For example, prickly pear leaf extract is rich in flavonoids, carotenoids, fatty acids, minerals, and vitamins.
Other standouts include:
| Ingredient | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Ceramide NP | Strengthens the skin barrier |
| Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 | Helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles |
| Squalane | Mimics natural skin oils to keep skin supple |
| Hydrolyzed Collagen | Boosts hydration and elasticity |
| Sodium Hyaluronate | A form of hyaluronic acid for deep hydration |
| Hibiscus Extract | Packed with antioxidants |
| Rosehip Seed Oil | Known for its regenerative properties |
It’s a formula blended to perfection—a soothing, regenerating medley that feels anything but ordinary.
How and When to Use Le Balm
The balm’s texture is solid but firm, unlike the pliability of cleansing balms. Warm it up between your fingertips to transform it into a lightweight oil. With oil-based formulas, less is more, and pressing (rather than rubbing) helps with absorption. You do not need to use a lot of product per application and the foxy little pot will easily last 3 months.
For best results:
- Apply Le Balm after any water-based serums or hydrating layers and allow them to fully absorb first.
- Press a small amount (do not tug or pull) into the skin for a dewy, comfortable finish.
- It works beautifully as a standalone moisturizer but I like it the most over a retinoid at night.
- Try it as an eye cream because it delivers moisture and hydration in spades.
As someone who typically shies away from heavy, oily formulas, I’ve been impressed by how Le Balm melts into my skin without feeling sticky or greasy. During these colder months, I’ve been using it both morning and night, and it layers seamlessly under my daily sunscreen.
Final Thoughts
Visually stunning and packed with performance-driven ingredients, Bonjout Le Balm is proof that simplicity doesn’t have to sacrifice efficacy. For minimalists who refuse to cut corners, Le Balm is a treat worth indulging in. It’s a refreshing find in a beauty landscape that has been feeling repetitive for a bit.
$130 (30g) at ondabeauty.com and bonjoutbeauty.com
Other posts you may find helpful:
- Jones Road Miracle Balm in Au Naturel
- True Botanicals Everything Rescue Balm
- Cleansers For Winter Dry Skin
