By acknowledging what oily skin looks and feels like (large pores, shininess, and superficial reddening) and what it should be instead (basically, the opposite of whatever we have mentioned), the first step from the Codex Labs’s Shaant series is their Balancing Foaming Cleanser. Like the ones from the Bia and Antü collection, the first issue that the Balancing Foaming Cleanser addresses are the strengthening of the skin’s microbiome.

A problem caused by modern living — high-stress levels, air pollution, and diet — or by the improper use of acids (a common practice by people with oily skin), the PreservX® preservation system in the cleanser works to restore the microbiome, which in turn, means stronger skin. How would one know? He just needs to look in the mirror after some time under the sun. There should be no signs of redness, itching, or patches.

Next, the cleanser tackles oiliness itself. Formulated with the ShaantComplexTM, which is a blend of terrestrial and marine plants (some of which are used in Ayurvedic practices), this low-foaming cleanser instantly reduces oiliness with just one wash and, as it is micellar water-based, it has the ability to remove sunscreen or light makeup.

As for acne and post-scarring, tulsi (an Ayurvedic herb used to counter metabolic stress) and patchouli (another herb used to stimulate the regeneration of the skin) are part of the cleanser’s formula too to reduce the size of acne, prevent future ones from happening, and brighten marks over time.

Now, for what also makes this cleanser a winner due to how we personally like to use it: a two-in-one cleanser for days when we want to do a “skip-care routine”, a refreshing face wash that reduces shine and oiliness after a particularly hot day, a face cleanser to form a skincare routine when we start noticing the first signs of acne forming, or a face-saver no matter his environment, lifestyle, and sensitivity.

The Codex Labs Shaant Balancing Foaming Cleanser is priced at $34 and is available at codexlabs.sg, astrospectre.com, metro.com.sg/productlist/brand/ codex, and robinsons.com.sg/collections/codex-beauty-labs.