Erborian Elixir au Ginseng — The Oil-Serum That Took Me a While to Love ✨

Like many, my first encounter with Erborian was through their iconic BB cream — and I really liked it. But today’s story is about another product: a two-phase oil-serum with 17 super ingredients, which I didn’t understand at first… but eventually fell in love with. Here’s how I found the right approach — and why it’s perfect for autumn. 🍂

I first got this product from an advent calendar, thinking it was a miniature — just 10 ml. Later I realized it’s the full size (there’s also a 30 ml version, but I recommend starting small). The cardboard packaging lists all ingredients and promises firmer, more radiant skin in just 15 nights.

Under the cap hides a small nozzle-dispenser. The product itself is two-phased, though you can barely tell through the dark glass. Always shake before use! I didn’t do that the first few times — and ended up with an oily face. After my first attempt, I even noticed clogged pores and set it aside for a while.

This spring, I gave it another chance — after reading a lot of positive reviews. The serum is transparent, scent-free, and runny, with a noticeable oily component once spread out.

The key to using it correctly is minimalism. Apply just a tiny amount — otherwise your skin will look greasy. Shake well, apply one-third of a pipette, rub it between your palms, and gently press it onto your face. That’s it. No need to seal it with a cream — layering too much makes skin overloaded and shiny (and in my case, leads to chin breakouts).

Used correctly, your face won’t feel oily at all — just plump, dewy, and radiant. You won’t stick to your pillow, and the next morning your skin will look amazing: firm, smooth, and luminous. With consistent use, pores look cleaner, and there are no new blemishes.

I recommend using it as a treatment course — 15 days daily or every other day, followed by a short break. This way, you avoid over-nourishing your skin.

My tiny bottle is nearly empty now, and I’ll definitely repurchase it next spring. It’s an excellent product, though it requires some learning to master.

💶 Price: €23 for 10 ml
⭐ Rating: 4 / 5 (for application nuances)