Over the years, I’ve tried a number of face oils formulated specifically to be used overnight. It all started with Sunday Riley’s Luna. After that, I embraced Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Concentrate. Of late, I’ve been dipping in and out of the Sleep Elixir from Beauti after learning it was a favorite of Kate Middleton. Years later, I continue to recommend these picks. They’re seriously great at nourishing and rejuvenating the skin. If your complexion however, is annoyingly prone to congestion, especially in the summer, I can’t say enough about how great the recently launched Pai Carbon Star Detoxifying Overnight Face Oil has been working for me. I’m talking major pore purification during this overnight shift.
What is it?
Carbon Star is a night time solution that balances and purifies combination skin to prevent clogged pores and overall clarify a dull complexion. It’s a lightweight blend with Black Cumin Seed Oil (aka fennel or caraway seed) as the star and yes, it is indeed black in color. Luckily, as the formula absorbs into the skin, it neither looks tinted nor does it stain your pillow case. It’s probably best that you hit said pillow a minute or two after massaging in the product — just to be safe.
What’s in it?
The Black Cumin Seed Oil deserves a major nod for its multifaceted properties. If you’re unfamiliar with this botanical, Cleopatra herself incorporated it into her skincare routine in 30 B.C. This gift of nature has proven to be timeless. And while it’s most known for the antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, it also helps brighten and firm the skin over time. The INCI list of Carbon Star is very tightly edited and also includes Copaiba Balsam (healing and soothing), Açai Fruit Oil (calming), Carapa Guaianensis Seed Oil (a fantastic moisturizing option for skin prone to eczema or acne), Vitamin E (antioxidant power!), and a dab of Charcoal Powder (to detoxify deep within the pores). This gorgeous Pai fusion is 52% organic and 100% natural. Also, I don’t detect any scent, which those finicky about intense herbal notes in face oils may find helpful.
How and When?
Pai formulated Carbon Star exclusively for night time use. I know that I can’t get away with wearing any face oil during the day so these directions work well for me. In addition, my skin seems to respond best to treatment products recommended to be worn overnight. If you’re wondering about the texture and feel of this formula, it’s a silky, lightweight oil blend that absorbs really well. If you’ve read my past facial oil musings, you know I prefer to apply it on heavily misted skin that is still damp. Recently, I’ve been back on the Josh Rosebrook Hydrating Accelerator bandwagon. After a generous spritz, I apply a dropper full of Carbon Star. Sometimes, I embrace the Yina gua-sha tool and give myself a quick massage to relax the facial muscles before bed and to allow for even better absorption of the product.
In short, I am beyond thrilled with this find, and if you have combination skin prone to clogged pores and shiny T-zone, you will be, too.
$50 (30ml) at skinstore.com but I recommend you try my affiliate code BART25 and save you an extra 25% (pro tip: and if it’s already part of a sale, try code 10BART for a deeper discount!)
