Review: Drunk Elephant Virgin Marula Luxury Facial Oil

The Drunk Elephant Virgin Marula Luxury Facial Oil is one of the brand's most hyped products. It claims to combat dryness, uneven skin tone, and fine lines and wrinkles. Basically, it's the holy grail of facial oils.

But at $72... is it really worth the hype? Right off the bat, I was a bit skeptical. I've been a dedicated rosehip seed oil fan for years now and have never spent more than $12 for it. Were those three extra twenty-dollar bills really going to make a huge difference in my skin? 

After using the Drunk Elephant Virgin Marula oil for a few months now, rotated into my regular skincare routine, I believe I have my answer.

The Stats

The Product

Drunk Elephant Virgin Marula Luxury Facial Oil

Price

$72 for 30mL/1oz (Sephora)

Active Ingredients

• Virgin Marula oil

Claims

"A wonder-working luxury facial oil, high in critical antioxidants, to deeply moisturize, nourish, soothe, and rejuvenate your skin while restoring its youthful glow." (via Sephora)

My Review

Application

If you imagine what a luxury facial oil feels like, this is it. It's a relatively dry oil, so it doesn't leave an oily film over your skin and sinks in within a few minutes (though not as quickly as my rosehip oil). It applies nicely and makes your face feel instantly hydrated. I would probably only ever use this in the evening, but if you have extra-dry skin you could probably get away with it in the daytime as well for a no-makeup day.

Packaging

The packaging for Drunk Elephant products always impresses me, and the marula oil was no exception. I have gone through 2 mini sizes of this oil (one that came free with my Drunk Elephant Babyfacial, and one that I purchased in a trial size set). But I much prefer the packaging of the full-size product, since it comes with a dropper, which is my preferred method of oil application. It's dang cute too, which helps.

Results

Despite feeling like a luxury facial oil, I don't think this product performs like a luxury facial oil. Don't get me wrong - I really liked it. My skin felt hydrated and soft every time I used it, and it didn't break me out or irritate my skin. But it also didn't provide me with any amazing results beyond what my usual $12 rosehip seed oil gives me. In terms of bang for your buck, I don't think the Drunk Elephant virgin marula oil lives up to its hype.

Bottom line: Will not repurchase

At the end of the day, even though this facial oil is nice, I don't think it's worth the price tag. I'll be sticking with my beloved rosehip seed oil, since it gives me similar results for far less cash.

If you're looking for a more affordable dupe for the Drunk Elephant Virgin Marula oil, check out The Ordinary's Virgin Marula Oil, which comes in at $10 for 30mL (The Ordinary).

Topic: Drunk Elephant Skincare Review