[unpaid/sample/affiliate/ad] I’m still having some skin sensitivity issues from an allergic reaction to antibiotics so I’ve been immensely thankful to have a pot of REN Evercalm Overnight Recovery Balm to hand. In particular, my neck has been so dry, itchy and reactive (and I suspect part of that is because I lost quite a lot of weight and therefore the skin is looser and folding) that it’s nothing short of a blessing to have this balm to slather on. I had a Profhilo treatment before Christmas and the benefits of that in terms of plumping and smoothing have been wiped out by dropping several pounds although my face is fine. It’s so strange – I’m as at one as I can be with the ageing process but this is a bit of a shock as is sensitive skin which really isn’t something I’ve had to tackle on any great level before. I’ve also got a Morpheus 8 treatment lined up (arranged pre-weight loss) because it’s something I’ve been asked about a few times so I think it’s turned out to be a good time to see what it can – or can’t – do.
To explain about Evercalm Overnight Recovery Balm – it’s really a lipid intense balm that mimics your own lipids to a certain extent. Lipids are natural fats within your skin and are responsible for keeping moisture in and protect from environmental aggressors such as pollution and grime by blocking the absorption. In skin care, there are certain oils that mimic your own lipids and therefore pick up the action that for some reason your complexion isn’t doing as well as it could be. So, to flood the skin with lipid rich formulas while its clearly under strain makes a big difference in terms of comfort.
This particular formula contains skin supportive lipid rich oils such as olive, borage, almond and linseed in a base of jojoba and sunflower. It also contains beta glucans (polysaccharides) and commonly found in such things as oats. Beta glucans have a big benefit in soothing and calming as well as the ability to plump the skin and help with wound healing. That’s quite key because irritated skin leads to scratching (I try really hard not to scratch at my neck and rub the skin instead so that I’m not traumatising it) which in turn leads to damage. The Overnight Recovery Balm is very loose textured – in fact, it’s easy to apply too much because your main experience of balms will be a firmer consistency. If anything, I’d say treat it like a thick oil. You’re aiming for a 5p piece size approximately to adequately cover both neck and face although do take it all the way down the chest as well (another area that’s driving me mad). Give it a few minutes to let it settle into the skin with your hair tied out of the way – the initial texture is ‘shiny’ but it soon becomes more soft and skin compatible in feel. It’s best to use it at night but really, you can apply it just whenever you need to although you will look temporarily glossy! From first use you’ll feel a difference in your skin and continuous use will bring continuous benefits. I think it’s one to have at hand when the weather gets pinchy or if your skin suddenly throws itself out of whack for whatever reason. I’d like a lip balm in exactly the same formula – I’ve tried it on my lips and it doesn’t taste nice but there must be something clever formulators can do to counteract that. Anyway, FeelUnique has the ‘supersize 50ml version’ on offer for £40 instead of £50 HERE, – the usual 30ml is £42 on the REN website so that seems a good offer.
Non-affiliate link is HERE.
Transparency Disclosure
All products are sent to me as samples from brands and agencies unless otherwise stated. Affiliate links may be used. Posts are not affiliate driven.
5 comments
Thanks for this Jane, sounds like just what I need – may I ask if you noticed any particular fragrance, please? – thanks, Alice
There’s not really – I can just smell a kind of waxy smell.
Super – thankyou!
I have used this balm as my night cream for several years. It’s a lifesaver for me particularly during these winter months but I also use it several times a week in the warmer months as well. There is no fragrance nor is it greasy as you might expect. My face and, yes, my neck feel very comfortable and soft in the morning. I’m 82 with fair, very dry skin and I just ordered the new larger size.
Isn’t it a lovely balm! So pleased you’re enjoying it.