I've written a lot about Australian skincare products in the past. I always like to buy locally for so many reasons: environmental impact, supporting local companies, and obviously, accessibility.

When I moved to London this summer my skin almost instantly started to break out, as well as looking really dull. I have dry skin so this is uncommon for me and I was not happy.

Oskia Renaissance Mask
The original review paired the cleansing gel with the Renaissance Mask and treated them as a powerhouse cleansing combo.

Discovering Oskia London

I think there is so much more pollution here, and my current cleansing routine wasn't cutting it. I decided to research local cleansing products, with an emphasis on natural and powerful ingredients.

And then I discovered Oskia London. They'd won too many awards to count and had been dubbed "The Best New Brand out of Britain" by Vogue. I was dying to see what all the fuss was about.

Oskia Renaissance Cleansing Gel

The first product I tried was their Renaissance Cleansing Gel. It's absolutely packed with vitamins and enzymes, and suited to all skin types, but particularly normal, dull, or dry. Given how dull and dry my new London skin was, this was music to my ears.

It's a beautifully rich pink gel that immediately turns into a silky oil when you rub it on dry skin. The first time I used it I fell in love with the texture. And the smell. It's Chamomile and Rose, and such a treat every morning to put on my face and inhale.

From first application my skin was brighter and softer, and over the past few weeks it's really cleared up too. I've been massaging it onto my face for about a minute and then washing off with a warm face cloth and water every morning and night.

Oskia Renaissance Mask

After loving the cleansing gel so much I decided to take the plunge and try out their Renaissance Mask. This mask is for all skin types, and has the same delicious smell as the gel, with a smooth texture.

It's deeply cleansing, but also brightens and freshens skin. It doesn't feel like a traditional mask. The colour is the same pink as the gel initially, then turns white once properly massaged into the skin.

This mask is amazing. My skin feels so soft after I use it, and looks instantly brighter. Given I am currently commuting over three hours a day on London trains, it's absolute heaven to put this on and erase all the damage from daily life.

Powerhouse cleansing combo

I know this is an uncharacteristically long review for me, but I really wanted to talk through these two amazing products. The cleanser is a divine treat for the senses, but more importantly my skin is feeling deeply cleansed while staying hydrated and soft.

I really, really recommend this cleanser. It's the best one I've ever used. I don't say that lightly. The mask is expensive too, but if you're looking to improve your complexion, this mask is so powerful you'll see results the first time you use it.

  • Original cleanser verdict: deeply cleansing while staying hydrated and soft.
  • Original mask verdict: instantly brighter, softer skin.
  • Original structure preserved: London skin context, cleanser review, mask review, combo verdict.