My love for makeup is no secret here. If you’ve read my blog for a while and follow me on Instagram ( @DailyCatL ), you know that I see makeup as an art form, an opportunity to get creative and figure out ways to enhance and make the most of what we’ve been blessed with. But there’s another aspect of makeup, perhaps a tad less colorful and dare I say, a bit more meaningful, and that is skincare: providing that canvas that we can use to create beautiful and artistic makeup looks. Let’s face it: you probably change something about your makeup look every day, every week and definitely with every season, but one thing you won’t be changing any time soon is your skin.
Now I’m a self-proclaimed skeptic when it comes to skincare and though I’m genuinely excited to try new products, I approach everything with a critical eye. Unlike makeup, skincare takes a little more patience, dedication and a consistent routine in order to see results. I read labels and question bold claims. But there’s a new skincare range that has completely taken over my bathroom shelves and that I couldn’t wait to share with you. I’ll be the one making the bold claim now: this range is one of the best skincare lines I’ve tried.
Farmacy: A Skincare Line You Need To Know About
Farmacy is a unique farm-to-table (fellow foodies will appreciate this) skincare line that combines age-old wisdom with cutting edge technology. The core of Farmacy is exclusive farm-grown botanicals infused in irritant-free, bioactive formulations aimed to deliver fresh and radiant skin. I think by now we can all agree that from the moment life begins, the aging process begins. There’s no slowing down. We cannot escape it and run from it, but embrace it and celebrate it. Yes, there is such a thing as aging gracefully and Farmacy products are here to help us achieve just that and so much more.
I simply love anything with a story and Farmacy has a fascinating one. It all begins with a unique plant, the Echinacea GreenEnvy, a variant of Echinacea Purpurea. This particular type of Echinacea contains the highest known concentration of Cichoric Acid, a potent natural anti-oxidant that helps protect and firm the skin by inhibiting the enzymes that break down collagen. Cichoric Acid also normalizes the skin pigmentation process to promote a more radiant and even-toned complexion. Farmacy works with local farmers in the upstate New York area to cultivate and harvest this exceptional Echinacea, as well as the other botanicals used in the creation of these luxurious skincare products, hence why the farm-to-table concept so aptly describes the brand. The Echinacea GreenEnvy plant is transported only two hours to the Farmacy lab, where it undergoes a cold pressing process. The end result is skincare products that attest to a wonderful marriage of nature and science. In the brand’s own words: ‘farmer cultivated, scientist activated for fresh, radiant skin’.
The Farmacy Perennial Picks Kit is a beautiful introduction to the brand, a wholesome skincare routine comprised of:
Invincible Root Cell Anti-Aging Serum (0.27 fl. Oz)
Rise ‘N Shine Daily Moisture Lock (0.5 fl. Oz)
Sleep Tight Firming Night Treatment (o.5 fl. Oz)
New Day Gentle Cleansing Grains (1.4 oz.)
All powered by the unique Echinacea GreenEnvy and all containing vegetable-derived ‘Retinoid-like’ ingredients that help prevent early wrinkles, smooth deep wrinkles and improve skin’s firmness, texture and luminosity. Now I don’t believe in magical products that are meant to completely wipe fine lines and wrinkles off my face, as that would most definitely put plastic surgeons out of business! But I’m looking for products that hydrate, moisturize and revive a dull complexion. Products that provide comfort to my skin as well as to my senses. And that’s exactly what I’ve found in the Farmacy Perennial Kit.
Invincible Root Cell Anti-Aging Serum
This is the type of serum that if I don’t use consistently, my skin begins to crave it. The silky texture of the serum provides just the right amount of hydration, while soothing sensitive areas and nourishing dry patches. In addition to Echinacea GreenEnvy, the serum is formulated with Farmacy’s exclusive Triple Hyaluronic Acid Technology aiming to target skin at different levels in order to boost its hydration and natural radiance, while stimulating the creation of collagen and elastin, leading to increased skin elasticity and firmness. It also contains Proform Vitamin C, a form of vitamin C that penetrates the skin more effectively to restore brightness and even out skin tone by reducing the appearance of freckles, dark spots and sun damage. Clinical studies support these claims. The serum has been clinically proven to provide absolute hydration to the skin, reduce the appearance of fine lines, crow’s feet and wrinkles, while also firming and smoothing. See impressive clinical photos on the brand’s own website here.
The serum is packaged in a beautiful looking jar that comes with a medicine dropper, leading to a very apothecary feel, which loyal readers of the blog know I simply adore. I’ve enjoyed using the serum in the morning and in the evening time, after cleansing and prior to moisturizing. The recommendation is to use one dropper dose of serum, warm between palms and gently press onto face and neck.
Rise ‘N Shine Daily Moisture Lock
This light-weight daily moisturizer has been serious competition for my beloved Kate Somerville Goat Milk. It gives my skin a glow and boost of hydration that lasts all day, without feeling heavy, thus creating the most perfect, luminous base for applying foundation. It’s packed with a wonderful list of ingredients including Echinacea GreenEnvy with Cichoric Acid, powerful peptides to smooth wrinkles, and a complex of amino-acids and copper to firm the skin and stimulate the production of collagen and elastin. The moisturizer is perfect for those with sensitive skin, like myself, as it’s infused with Water Lily extract to help reduce skin sensitivity, irritation and redness. It’s got a luxurious soft, balmy texture that is such a pleasure to use and that makes the skin feel really hydrated, moisturized and smooth.
Sleep Tight Firming Night Treatment
I noticed a big difference in my skin’s overall hydration, firmness and radiance since using this night treatment. Let me first start by saying, I didn’t have high hopes for this product, mainly as I’m not a fan of gel-like formulas in my nighttime moisturizers as they never seem to be moisturizing enough for my skin. However, I think I’ve found a real gem in Farmacy’s Sleep Tight Night Treatment. It has an innovative gel-like look and consistency that turns into a balmy oil as it’s massaged into the skin. I love the light green color, very reminiscent of the Echinacea GreenEnvy plant and find the slightly natural scent very soothing and calming to my senses. Applying this balm truly is an experience that gets me ready to sleep tight every night. I use it on evenings when my skin needs a little pick me up, some hydration, an extra glow, so pretty much every night. The little jar feels lush and makes me feel a bit special. Ever since I first tried this balm treatment, I haven’t stopped reaching for it. It is perfect to soothe the effects of day-to-day life and the perfect double-duty product: a treatment for the face and an aromatherapy experience for my senses. I am a strong believer in using face oils because of this double-duty aspect, but I haven’t felt the need to reach for an oil in the evening time since using this balm. I will probably start layering with an oil when the weather cools down in the winter months, as I feel that’s when my extra dry skin might appreciate it more. Always listen to your skin’s needs!
In addition to the Echinacea GreenEnvy with Cichoric Acid, the balm is formulated with vegetable-derived ‘Retinoid-like’ ingredients that help prevent early wrinkles, smooth deep wrinkles and improve skin’s firmness, texture and radiance. It’s also enriched with extract from the South African Acmella plant to stimulate collagen and thus increase skin firmness, while Blackcurrant Seed, Balloon Vine Extract and Sunflower Oil nourish, protect and reinforce the skin’s barrier.
New Day Gentle Cleansing Grains
Described as all-inclusive treatment, the grains cleanse, exfoliate and clarify in one step. It has a unique powder formula that mixed with a few drops of water, turn into a smooth paste. Massage onto skin with gentle circular motions, rinse with water and voila: you’re left with fresh and clear skin. I have extremely sensitive and fussy skin so anything too abrasive just doesn’t work for me, which is why I’ve fallen in love with this gentle exfoliating cleanser.
It’s formulated with a complex of White Willow Bark, Carrot, Green Tea and Marshmallow Soothe, to protect and calm the skin, while natural Cranberry Seeds and Rice Bran Powder loosen dry skin cells and provide a deep clean to lift away impurities and reveal a softer and clearer skin. Due to its exfoliating properties, I wouldn’t recommend using this cleanser every day. I like to use it twice a week in the evening time, but if your skin is not too sensitive, you could probably use it every few days.
Have you tried Farmacy skincare before? What are some of your favorite products from the brand?
Cat this is such an informative post! I’ve seen the Farmacy brand at Sephora and have been tempted to try it. After reading your detailed review, I know I need to. Great post!
Thank you so much! I strongly recommend checking this brand out. The Perennial Kit is a great way to get familiarized with the line, but you can also start by getting a few samples from Sephora! They’re always pretty generous with their sample sizes! 🙂 ~ Cat L.
I love this article ! I have really been liking this brand since I tried the skin firming night balm . I haven’t been using it during the warmer weather , but it is one of my favorite night time products now and I’m glad to be able to learn more about this brand 🙂
Hi Kristen, thank you for stopping by! I think you would really like the serum as it has hyaluronic acid components and can be used in the morning and in the evening. Definitely sample it out next time you’re near a Sephora! ~ Cat L.
Thank you Cat ! I definitely will.
Thank you for such an in-depth and informative post about Farmacy! I definitely need to check out their products.
Hi Jenn, thank you for stopping by. I just discovered your blog http://www.beautybyjellybean.com and I’m obsessed. Your review of the Anastasia palette really has me reconsidering it. As far as Farmacy, I would definitely recommend checking out their skincare line. I know from your blog that you’re a skincare fan just like myself and on top of that you’re studying Chemistry. I’m sure that you’ll appreciate some of the ingredients in these products. Glad you enjoyed the post! ~ Cat L.
Cat, Thank you very much for your review with some many information and I really will try this brand because of your recommendation. Besides all of natural ingredients, the packaging seems very lovely.
One more time…Thank you.
Warm regards,
Mar
Hi Mar, thank you for always leaving the sweetest and most kind comments! Can’t wait to see what you got from Farmacy and hear your thoughts on it! Hope you enjoy this brand as much as I have! ~ Cat L.
I have see this brand floating around IG and was a little sceptical, but after such a thorough review I am sold when I am over that side of the pond, I be sure to try it and maybe get some for myself. Very thorough review and the new day exfoliating grains have me wanting this now ?. X
Hi Esnath! You know your blog http://www.prettypeachblossom.com is one of my favorites to read and I always get excited when you stop by and read my blog. I think you would really appreciate the Farmacy brand as their products truly are wonderful for all the reasons I highlighted in my post. Given that we have a similar skin type and seem to enjoy the same type of skincare products, it’s safe to say you would really love this brand. Hope you do get a chance to try it out next time you’re over on my side of the pond! Thank you again for stopping by! ~ Cat L.
I became interested in this brand when I first spotted their Honey mask at Sephora a few weeks ago. After reading your review, I know that in addition to the mask, I need to try the serum and the day/night moisturizers! Great post!
Thank you so much! Yes, I strongly recommend the serum and the day/night moisturizers. As far as the honey mask, I haven’t tried it yet, but it’s high on my list! ~ Cat L.
I agree with you that skincare takes dedication and it is extremely important to be educated about reading labels. You only have one skin after all. Farmacy does sound intriguing and the serum and nighttime cream have caught my eye. They also seem more reasonable priced for what is offered so I will definitely start with the serum and nighttime cream to see how my skin likes these products.
Hi Christina, thank you for stopping by! Agreed, Farmacy is extremely reasonably priced for what they offer, in my opinion. It definitely is a brand we’ll start hearing more about as their products are truly outstanding. ~ Cat L.
Cat, it’s such a in depth review about this product, I already looked at Sephora website for this one so I know how much I’ll be spending when I order it, I was surprised how reasonable the price is for what it offers. I’ll start with the serum because I’m obsessed with serum nowadays especially on this warm season. I love makeup but you know I love skincare more.
Thank you so much for always being so supportive of my content. It means more than you know! Agreed on Farmacy: their products are more reasonably priced considering what’s being offered. I cannot recommend this brand enough! Hope you get a chance to try it and hope you like it as much as I do! ~ Cat L.
I’ve thoroughly enjoyed your post and the honest review of what seem like fantastic products. Thanks to you, I’ll be adding this kit on my Sephora shopping list. Have a fabulous evening, sweetheart ❤️
Hi Anxhela, thank you for stopping by. I’m a fan of your blog http://luxbubs.blogspot.com so your opinion means more than you know! I definitely recommend trying Farmacy! The Perennial Kit is a great way to get familiar with the brand as it offers a cleanser, serum and day/night moisturizers at an incredibly reasonable price point! Hope you get a chance to try these and hope you’ll enjoy them as much as I have! ~ Cat L.
With these skincare products and the Perricone diet, no wonder your skin glows all the time. Thanks for this thoroughly informative blog post.
Hi Daphne, thank you so much for such blush worthy comments! I love your Instagram @CosmeticSnob and your YouTube channel (Daphne S.) which I just subscribed to. I watched your most recent haul and I think you just sold me on the Anastasia Glow Kit! 🙂 ~ Cat L.
You had me at Lactobacillus ❤️ and then you made my sale final with Foaming Grains. I love (Dermalogica) Daily Microfoliant which is similar in idea, so when I’m finished with that bottle I will be making an introduction to Farmacy. Thank you for the beautiful and eloquent post and especially highlighting skin care.
Hi Regina, thank you so much for reading my blog. I greatly appreciate your expertise when it comes to skincare and always find myself turning to you for advice. Your blog http://www.SkincareReginaVenti.com is always a must read! The Farmacy Cleansing Grains is very similar to the Dermatologica one you’re referring to, same concept and also a great product. I definitely recommend trying Farmacy especially since their line also incorporates vegetable-derived Retinoid-like ingredients, which I know you’re also a fan of (I just read your blog post on Retinol). Hope you do get a chance to try this line and hope you enjoy it as much as I have! ~ Cat L.
Thank you for your very detailed review of this brand, I’m eager to try this line, going to ask for sample of the sleep tight night treatment! It’s no wonder your skin looks flawless and glowy!!!!! I also recently bought a travel kit on sale at Sephora, that has a small Kate Somerville goat milk moisturizer. I’m so excited to try that knowing you love it so much!!! Thank you for all your hardwork researching and writing about these wonderful products!
Hi Laura, thank you for stopping by and for always leaving the nicest comments here and on my Instagram! I greatly appreciate it! I think you would really love the Farmacy Perennial Kit for all the reasons mentioned in my post, as well as I think it’s a great starting point to get familiar with the brand. Not to mention it’s very reasonably priced for what is being offered. So glad you got a small sample of the Kate Somerville Goat Milk. It’s been my daytime moisturizer for as long as I can remember, from a time before I was married and had my own family! Now the Farmacy Rise and Shine is definitely serious competition and I like to use both of these two moisturizers on rotation. I do hope you get to try Farmacy and I hope you’ll enjoy both Farmacy and the Goat Milk! ~ Cat L.
Ok so this is now on my ‘must try’ list … as long as that list is getting now I may need extra face space! lol
I love the ethos of this line and being ‘farm to table’ I love to hear stories like this. I have seen this brand all over IG so it has intrigued me more and more.
You know I love skincare as you do so a great review and a joy to read! Kelly xxx
http://www.kellilash.com
Kelly, thank you for stopping by. I am a huge fan of your blog http://www.kellilash.com which you’re probably getting tired of hearing as I mention it to you every chance I get. But truly, I respect your skincare expertise and your recommendations are always spot on. Yes, you definitely need to try Farmacy. The farm-to-table concept is what immediately got my attention but then having tried the products, I am now hooked on these. The Perennial Kit is a great way to get to know the brand, as it includes everything anyone needs in terms of a wholesome skincare routine. Hope you do get to try this line and hope you’ll enjoy it as much as I have. ~ Cat L.
It all sounds great! Great info provided. I’ve been trying Rise n Shine moisture lock and it really is great (I also have sensitive skin). I think my next skincare purchase will be the Sleep Tight night balm. – Alyssia
Hi Alyssia, thank you for stopping by. Yes it can be tricky to work with products when you have sensitive skin, which is why I’ve fallen in love with the Farmacy line. I adore the farm-to-table concept given that I also prefer to use natural, green beauty whenever I can, plus their products are really effective. I definitely recommend the serum and the night balm, which I think is also ideal for colder months when the skin needs extra hydration! ~ Cat L.
Great review Cat! I still need to review these, I’m so behind on reviews as of late w/my blog eek, but I liked how you really went in-depth about each one and also took a picture of the ingredient lists! That’s also super important that not enough people provide, and you are just so amazing to do so. I pretty much love every single product, but like you I will use some of them during specific times or reasons (yep, we gotta listen to our skin and what it’s yappin’ to us!). Especially the night balm, it’s quite heavy for my oily skin and I think I can only use it during winter time or times when my skin is very sensitive and needing nourishment. Farmacy is a great brand, I’m glad they are at Sephora!
xoxo
http://www.hellohimawari.com
Hi Mika, I hear you about being behind on reviews! My three weeks of vacation really set me back, but then again it was all worth it. So glad you’re enjoying the Farmacy goodies. Indeed, you have to listen to your skin and it sounds like you already are. I love using the serum as I’m a huge fan of hyaluronic acid. It’s light and perfect especially right now in the summer months. As far as the nighttime balm, it is a rich moisturizer and I typically skip oils when I use it. My skin adores it. I’ll be keeping my eyes on your blog http://www.hellohimawari.com for your review! Thank you again for stopping by! ~ Cat L.
I’m always in awe of really thorough skincare posts like these…. i know how much work went into this!! And anything with echinacea has got me wanting! But i’m a bit troubled by the high level of preservatives though… especially with the serum :/
Thank you so much, Linda! Your blog http://www.silverkis.com is such an inspiration to me, so I get excited every time I see a comment from you. Thank you for appreciating this post, indeed there is a tremendous amount of time, work and energy that goes into creating such content but it is a labor of love, as I’m sure is your experience as well. I think often times in the vast world of skincare products, certain sacrifices are made to create a product that delivers what it says it does. The Farmacy products deliver on their claims, or at least that has been my personal experience. I would say that they are more natural in formulation, though not completely natural, hence the preservatives. I was glad to see that they’re formulated without parabens, sulfates and phthalates and they’re cruelty-free. All these requirements are very important to me. As with everything, there isn’t a brand or product that fits all, but so far for me these have been winners. I love the serum in particular because of the hyaluronic acid which my skin simply adores. Do keep me posted if you get a chance to try these! ~ Cat L.