Organic is a term that is, more often than not, thrown around in the beauty industry. Becoming the ‘it’ word to grace the packaging of many global skincare brands, in pursuit of products that are not ‘grammable on the outside, but are packed with good stuff inside.
The search for skincare that has the wow factor yet doesn’t compromise my health has been an ongoing journey with one major hand break. Often, despite my best efforts, products have lacked high performance. Do we always have to lose the efficacy of a product in the search for a pure, transparent formula?
After quizzing Siddharth Somaiya, founder of Organic Riot, it was time to road test the award-winning brand after it’s recent launch into New Zealand. What piqued my interest was the brand approach to educating consumers about conscious beauty choices.
Many The Beauty Book readers will know there are many organic skin care brands on shelves, right through from cleansers to SPF’s. But Organic Riot is different. Right from the outset, the brand is simple, without overcomplicating the range with three hero products – Zap, Dazzle and Smog-Block, which have quickly garnered stand out reviews.
Still in its infancy, the brand sure has a report card to write home about. Winning Vogue India’s Beauty Festival Sustainability Icon Brand of the Year for 2020 and being featured in top magazines such as Vogue, Grazia, Elle and Tattler UK. All for a good reason: it’s pretty damn good.
ZAP – Anti Acne Serum $34.99
What it’s for: “The invisible, non-drying spot treatment controls and gently banishes breakouts.”
Verdict: If 2020 has taught us anything is that working from home isn’t as easy as it sounds, and with it comes stress and stressed-out skin. My silver lining? Zap. This spot treatment was just what my chin ordered, immediately calming any breakouts. The serum is moisturising and didn’t aggravate the skin, unlike other treatments I have tried – which is excellent if you suffer from dry skin.
Dazzle – Anti Pigment $34.99
What it’s for: “The powerful, potent formula targets pigmentation, dark spots, acne scars and other forms of unevenness in skin tone.”
The Verdict: With the expectation of a fluid, I was pleasantly surprised to find Dazzle is a creme serum, which is light and spreads easily. Similarly to Zap, just one pump goes a long way. If skin tone is your concern, Dazzle will be sure to tackle the smallest of issues. One thing to note: Definitely follow up with a moisturiser like Smog-Block as the serum on its own felt a little drying.
Smog-Block – Anti Pollution Moisturiser $34.99
What it’s for: “Smog-Block penetrates deep into the layers of the skin, restoring balancer and making it look fresh and plump.”
Verdict: Being a city girl, any product that can help reduce the impact of urban living is a plus. Smog-Block is loaded with Manuka extract, Hyaluronic Acid, Rosehip Extract and Zinc Oxide, to name a few. The lightweight formula hydrates the skin and protects the skin from sun damage. One key ingredient, Yuzu, was a standout. With three-time more vitamin C than oranges, it helps to brighten the skin tone. Smog-Block works perfectly on top of both Dazzle and Zap for a powerful trio.
The stand out of Organic Riot, aside from their uncompromisingly safe and high-quality ingredients, is the price. Often I find it’s easy to shell out most of your pay check on effective products, but Organic Riot is friendly on the wallet at $34.99 each.Â
Organic Riot is available online or at Life & Unichem Pharmacies.Â
Words: Georgia Rose
Images: Supplied