Bio-Oil is a true phenomenon. The number one-selling product for the treatment of scars and stretchmarks in the US, the UK and Australia, the cult product is also an effective facial oil for correcting skin tone, increasing hydration and battling the signs of ageing.
The brainchild of Dieter Beier, a German cosmetic chemist based in South Africa, Bio-Oil was launched in 1987. Celebrity fans include Natalie Portman, the Duchess of Cambridge, Priyanka Chopra and Kim, Khloe and Kourtney Kardashian.
Over a decade ago, co-owners David and Justin Letschert, who also head up the company’s research team, decided to develop “the world’s most hydrating skincare product”.
The result was Bio-Oil Dry Skin Gel, the brand’s first new product in more than 30 years.
The company has been testing the response in its best-selling markets. First rolled out in South Africa in 2018, Dry Skin Gel debuted in Australia a couple of months ago and is available in Chemist Warehouse and Priceline.
In the UK, Superdrug and Boots are the main retailers.
In the US, the super-hydrator has been rolled out on Amazon and through Walmart. From September, the pharmacy stalwart will also be sold through Target and Ulta Beauty, the largest specialist beauty chain in the US.
The gel is made up of 87 per cent oil ( the highest concentration possible) and only three per cent water. It contains the same humectants and emollients as the classic Bio-Oil formula and is targeted at dry and very dry skin.
Unlike its predecessor, the pink-coloured gel is not designed for daily use because it is a very intense moisturiser, notes David Letschert. Another key difference is the texture prevents more moisture loss.
Available in 50 ml, 100ml and 200ml tubs.
RRPs are: $8.95, $14.95 and $24.95