Over a year ago, I decided to ditch traditional water-based skincare and fully commit to a waterless routine…starting with Oliveda. I was curious (and honestly, a little skeptical) about whether oils, plant extracts, and tree elixirs could really replace the typical “hydrating” products I’d used for years. But the results? Surprising in the best way. In this post, I’m breaking down my waterless skincare results, giving you an honest Oliveda skincare review, and sharing what I’ve loved, what I’ve learned, and what’s next for my routine.
FAQs
- What is waterless skincare, exactly? Waterless skincare means the products are formulated without water as a base. Instead, they use potent oils, plant extracts, or elixirs that deliver active benefits without dilution.
- What kind of results did you see after switching? I noticed clearer skin, less puffiness, less dryness, and a big improvement in overall tone and glow. My skin felt more balanced and less reactive.
- Is Oliveda skincare worth it? In my experience…yes. It’s clean, plant-powered, and backed by serious results. Their olive elixirs are the real deal if you’re looking for skin regeneration and glow.
- Does it work for sensitive skin? Everyone’s skin is different, but I personally found Oliveda gentle and soothing. As always, patch testing is a must…but waterless doesn’t mean harsh.
- Will I miss traditional moisturizers? I thought I would, but I didn’t. Once I learned how to layer oils and serums properly, my skin felt even more hydrated and the glow was next-level.
What Is Waterless Skincare, Really?
Waterless skincare might sound like a trend, but at its core, it’s about potency and purpose. Instead of using water as the main ingredient (which often dilutes actives), waterless formulas rely on powerful plant oils, extracts, and elixirs that deliver real results without the filler. Think of it as skincare that’s more concentrated, more nourishing, and often gentler…because every drop actually does something. Brands like Olive Tree People (Oliveda) take it a step further, replacing water with ingredients like olive leaf elixir (hydroxytyrosol) to actively support skin regeneration. It’s not just “clean” beauty…it’s smarter skincare that delivers real waterless skincare results you can see and feel.
Why I Switched to Waterless Skincare
As I was approaching 40, I started noticing my skin looked dull and my under eyes looked sad. Despite always taking good care of my skin, I was realizing that the products I was using just weren’t working for me anymore. So I started searching for better skincare products that would help me age gracefully.
I invested in lots of different brands, especially trying to focus on under eye care. I bought eye creams, eye gels, and eye patches and nothing worked well enough for me to notice any difference. I started seeing my friends share about waterless skincare. At first, I just scrolled past. But when I kept seeing their testimonials and before and after pictures, I was intrigued.
I dug in and did more research. Was waterless skincare legit? Was it worth the hype? And when I discovered that the fastest growing waterless beauty company in the world had a 365 day return policy, I figured…what did I have to lose?!
So I invested in more skincare products really hoping that I had finally found something that would help me see an improvement in my skin. And I did!
My Honest Oliveda Skincare Review
I was skeptical, I was hopeful, I was willing to try! I bought an entire skincare routine, not just one or two products. I’m a firm believer that if you want to see results in life, you have to be willing to make the effort and investment. And I knew I would have to be patient.
I took a picture every month in natural lighting, without any makeup on so I could track my progress. Did I have an amazing transformation where my skin looked flawless and I looked 20 again? No. And I don’t think you should have those expectations either. But, here are my waterless skincare results:
- My skin went from dull to glowy
- My skin became plumper
- My wrinkles softened
- My puffiness decreased
- My skin tone became more even
- My skin texture became smoother
- My under eye area looked happier (less sad, puffy, and dark)
Now, everyone’s results will differ. And the type of products and your consistency will also affect your results. I went all in. I drank the internals and used the skincare on my face daily. I cycled through actives like retinol, vitamin c, and exfoliators. I maintain a healthy diet and also use Gua Sha facial massage and the JOVS 4D Laser Light Therapy Mask.
My Oliveda skincare review was contingent on the effort I gave. Your results will depend on your commitment. Your patience. Your persistence. If you want something bad enough, you’ll make the effort. Having healthier skin was important to me, so I did the work and I saw great results because of it!
My Favorite Oliveda Products
Skincare is not a one size fits all. What works well for me, may not work well for you. You may have a different skin type and skin concerns. So it’s important to get the right products for your needs.
Here are some of my faves and what I’m currently using:
- F91 Corrective Cleansing Balm
- LA Dope 009 Cleanser
- F67 Corrective Facial Tonic
- F83 HT + Vitamin C Serum (my morning serum)
- F59 Corrective Face Serum or F86 Corrective Vegan Hyaluronic Serum (my night serums)
- F65 Corrective Midnight Elixir (natural retinol)
- F64 Corrective Eye Elixir
- F60 Corrective Eye Cream
- F76 Honey Enzyme Mask (enzyme exfoliator)
- F81 AHA + HT Serum (chemical exfoliator)
- F42 Corrective Face Cream
- I01 Orac and Camu Camu Concentrate
- I70 Beauty Molecule (hyaluron)
- I66 The Beauty Fountain (collagen)
I also use and love the Olive Rose makeup products! Theses are my very favorites:
Want to know what will work best for your skin?? Click the button below to get a complimentary custom skincare routine just for you!
Is Waterless Skincare Worth It? My Take
If you want to see improvement in your skin, then absolutely yes! Waterless skincare in definitely worth it! I was tired of spending money and time on products that weren’t doing anything for me. I didn’t see any difference and my skin actually was looking worse. If you are willing to put the time and money into a better skincare routine, you’ll notice better results!
What’s Next for My Skincare Routine
I’ve been really great at focusing on my face, but I’ve neglected the skin on the rest of my body! My goal for this next year is to focus on my body skincare with better body wash, body oil, body balm, and body serum.
Tips for Transitioning to Waterless Skincare
Since these products don’t contain any added water, they are very potent. A little goes a long way! I recommend starting off using these products slowly so your skin can adjust. It’s best to use just the cleanser first for several days, then add in moisturizer. After your skin has adjusted, add in a new product every few days or after a week.
Skin purging is normal. But to avoid a crazy skin purge, start low and slow. Be patient and trust the process. I send all my clients a skincare guide with tips and tutorials and you have access to me via text or email to ask any skincare questions. I’ve also created an in depth skincare course for women over 40 to help you look younger and feel fresher. And it’s on sale for just $7!!
This year with waterless skincare has completely shifted how I care for my skin and myself. From dull skin to a deeper sense of connection with the ingredients I’m using, the switch to Oliveda and waterless formulas has been more than just a trend…it’s been transformational. Whether you’re waterless-curious or ready to make the leap, I hope this review gives you some real-world insight to guide your next step. And if you’re asking, “is it worth it?” My skin says yes.
Here are other blogposts that you might enjoy:
- Top 5 Oliveda Products I Can’t Live Without
- Why Waterless Skincare is Ideal for Aging Skin (Featuring Oliveda)
- Holiday Sneak Peek: Gift-Worthy Skincare Sets with Oliveda
- Oliveda Serums Review: Best Picks for Aging, Sensitivity, & Glow
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About the Author
JoEllen is a licensed esthetician, certified makeup artist, and certified John Maxwell coach, speaker, and trainer. She works with women helping them look and feel confident. She loves teaching women simple beauty techniques so they can feel empowered to try it at home. Her motto is that when you look and feel good, you do good!
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