So Kiehl’s went and reformulated their cult oil. The internet is currently in a mild panic.
The old version smelled like a fancy herbal tea. This one? Smells like a spa that doesn’t want you to fall asleep. That shift alone tells you everything.
It’s still $52 for 1oz. Still a night oil. The claim is “better absorption + more visible repair by morning.” Bold.
New Squalane Base
Oilier skin types might actually tolerate this now. Lighter than the old formula by a mile.
No More Lavender Oil
They swapped it for something less fragrant. Your nose won’t hate you if you’re sensitive.
Added Ceramides
The old one was just oils. This one actually tries to fix your barrier.
Three things doing the heavy lifting. No filler fluff.
- Squalane: Absorbs in 10 seconds flat. No grease.
- Ceramide NP: Patches up that winter dryness overnight.
- Evening Primrose Oil: The glow driver. Makes you look like you slept 8 hours when you got 5.
Watery. Like, unnervingly thin for an oil. 3 drops cover your whole face. It sinks in before you finish applying — no waiting around.
Week two and my chin texture flattened out. But my T-zone? Slightly shinier in the morning than the old formula. Trade-off.
Lines around my mouth looked softer. Pores didn’t shrink but stopped shouting at me. No breakouts — which is a miracle for my skin.
Better on paper, better on skin — just don’t expect the same cozy vibe. It’s a workhorse now, not a lullaby.