Honey Grail Ultra-Hydrating Face Oil
Honey Grail Ultra-Hydrating Face Oil
Product Description
Farmacy Honey Grail Ultra-Hydrating Face Oil is a fast-absorbing, antioxidant-rich facial oil built around a proprietary honey blend, sea buckthorn oil and a five-flower botanical blend. It delivers deep, lightweight hydration and a dewy glow while helping smooth the look of fine lines β without a greasy, pore-clogging finish. Independently lab-tested non-comedogenic and usable on skin, hair and even mixed into makeup.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Proprietary Honey Blend
Buckwheat-derived honey, propolis and royal jelly deliver humectant moisture plus soothing, antioxidant and skin-conditioning benefits.
Sea Buckthorn "Wonder Oil"
Rich in omegas 3, 6, 7 and 9, carotenoids and vitamins A, C and E to nourish, soothe and defend against free-radical damage.
Five-Flower Oil Blend
Hibiscus, rosehip, evening primrose, crambe and sunflower oils flood skin with omega fatty acids to support a healthy barrier.
Multitasking & Fast-Absorbing
Sinks in quickly for a glow that's never greasy. Use alone, layered with moisturizer, mixed into foundation or smoothed through hair.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
Contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone or chemical UV filters, so the core formula avoids the ingredients typically flagged in pregnancy.
Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (bergamot) oil can be photosensitizing. Prefer nighttime use or always pair with daily SPF.
Loaded with fatty-acid plant oils (coconut, evening primrose, sunflower, sea buckthorn, rosehip) that can feed malassessia yeast.
Independently tested by a third-party lab and confirmed non-comedogenic; uses fractionated (liquid) coconut derivatives to lower pore-clogging risk.
Naturally occurring limonene and linalool can sensitize very reactive skin. Patch-test first if you react to essential oils.
Contains honey, propolis and royal jelly extracts derived from bees. Cruelty-free and gluten-free, but not suitable for vegans.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
π₯₯ Cocoglycerides ~22β33% Proven
The primary emollient base of the formula, made from the mono-, di- and triglycerides of coconut oil. It creates a light, spreadable film that softens skin and slows transepidermal water loss.
- Function: Emollient and emulsifier that softens the upper layer of skin and improves slip.
- Texture role: Helps the oil glide and absorb instead of sitting heavy on the surface.
π§ Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride High Proven
A clear, lightweight emollient made by combining glycerin with coconut-derived fatty acids. It conditions skin, helps dissolve other ingredients and gives the oil its silky, fast-absorbing feel.
- Evidence: Shown to be as effective as mineral oil at softening dry skin while feeling far lighter.
- Note: Despite a coconut origin, research does not support claims that it clogs pores.
π§΄ Octyldodecanol Mid Proven
A fatty alcohol used as an emollient and texture enhancer. It softens skin, prevents the oils and water phase from separating, and keeps the formula stable and easy to spread.
- Function: Skin-softening emollient and emulsion stabilizer.
- Note: High molecular weight means it largely stays on the surface rather than absorbing deeply.
π₯₯ Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil Mid Promising
Fractionated coconut oil rich in lauric and linoleic acids. Through fractionation it stays liquid at room temperature, giving a lighter, non-greasy texture than raw coconut oil while still trapping moisture.
- Benefit: High fatty-acid content helps lock in moisture and soften skin.
π± Crambe Abyssinica Seed Oil Mid Promising
An Abyssinian seed oil prized for its very high content of long-chain fatty acids. It conditions and smooths skin, adds slip and lends a silky, non-tacky after-feel.
- Function: Skin-conditioning emollient that improves spreadability and shine.
πΌ Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Oil Mid Promising
Evening primrose oil is rich in linoleic acid (β60β85%) plus oleic, palmitic and stearic acids. This fatty-acid profile soothes and moisturizes and supports a comfortable, calm barrier.
- Composition: Predominantly linoleic acid, a fatty acid skin uses to build ceramides.
- Note: Further research is still needed on its role in eczema.
π» Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil Mid Proven
A non-fragrant emollient especially high in linoleic acid. It helps skin produce ceramides, supporting barrier repair, and leaves skin feeling smoother and more rejuvenated.
- Evidence: Studied for supporting the skin barrier and reducing water loss.
- Bonus: Naturally rich in vitamin E antioxidants.
πΊ Rosa Moschata (Rosehip) Seed Oil Mid Promising
Cold-pressed rosehip oil is a fan-favourite for radiance and even tone. High in essential fatty acids and pro-vitamin A compounds, it nourishes dry skin and supports a brighter, smoother look over time.
- Benefit: Lightweight, fast-sinking oil traditionally used for tone and texture.
π― Honey Extract Lower Proven
The signature ingredient. Honey is a natural humectant that draws moisture to skin and brings antibacterial, anti-aging and soothing properties along with amino acids, peptides and vitamins A, C and E.
- Hydration: Humectant action pulls water into the skin's surface.
- Antioxidant: Darker honeys carry higher antioxidant levels that help defend against aging.
π Propolis Extract Lower Promising
Also called "bee glue," propolis brings antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, wound-healing and antioxidant flavonoids. It can help calm blemish-prone skin and supports overall skin resilience.
- Research: Studies show propolis fights bacteria, viruses and fungi and may speed wound healing.
- 2020 study: Found propolis helped reverse signs of UV-induced skin damage.
π Royal Jelly Extract Lower Promising
A nutrient-dense bee secretion containing amino acids, fatty acids and B vitamins. It hydrates while contributing antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, anti-aging support.
- Animal studies: Suggest royal jelly may boost collagen production and reduce inflammation.
π Hippophae Rhamnoides (Sea Buckthorn) Oil Lower Proven
The "almighty wonder oil." Rich in rare palmitoleic acid (omega-7), carotenoids and vitamins A, C and E, sea buckthorn nourishes, soothes inflammation and protects against oxidative stress.
- Omega-7: Palmitoleic acid is found naturally in skin's own lipids and supports soothing and repair.
- Antioxidant: Carotenoids help defend against free-radical damage.
π‘οΈ Tocopherol (Vitamin E) Lower Proven
A fat-soluble antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals and reinforces the skin's lipid barrier. It also stabilizes the oils in the formula and helps keep them fresh.
- Barrier: Supports skin's natural lipids, ceramides and fatty acids.
- Synergy: Works especially well alongside vitamin C against UV-induced damage.
π Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil Trace Promising
A bergamot orange oil that gives the formula its delicate scent and brings mild anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antifungal properties.
- Source: Naturally contains limonene and linalool fragrance compounds.
24 ingredients
Cocoglycerides, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Octyldodecanol, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Crambe Abyssinica Seed Oil, Ethylcellulose, Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Oil, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Hibiscus Sabdariffa Seed Oil, Rosa Moschata (Rosehip) Seed Oil, Honey Extract, Propolis Extract, Royal Jelly Extract, Hippophae Rhamnoides (Sea Buckthorn) Oil, Hippophae Rhamnoides Seed Oil, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Extract, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil, Tocopherol, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Extract, Water/Aqua/Eau, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Aroma, Limonene, Linalool.
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Apply after lightweight serums. Because oils block water from getting in, layer Honey Grail before a cream β or mix a drop into your moisturizer. For best hydration, pair it over a humectant (hyaluronic acid or glycerin) since this oil seals moisture in rather than drawing it from the air.
π How to Use
Cleanse & Prep
Start with clean skin. Apply your toner, essence or hydrating serum and let it absorb.
Dispense 3β4 Drops
Warm a few drops between your palms. A little goes a long way; build up only if your skin is very dry.
Press Into Skin
Gently press (don't rub) over face and neck, morning and/or night, for intense hydration and glow.
Seal & Protect
Follow with moisturizer if needed. In the morning, always finish with SPF. Pro tip: mix a drop into foundation for a dewy finish or smooth through hair to tame flyaways.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You have dry, dehydrated or flaky skin, especially in winter
- You want a fast-absorbing glow without greasiness
- You're targeting dullness, fine lines and uneven texture
- You like multi-use products (skin, hair, makeup mix-in)
- You have combination skin that needs balanced moisture
β Consider alternatives if:
- You're prone to fungal acne / malassezia folliculitis
- You strictly avoid fragrance and essential oils
- You follow a vegan routine (contains bee ingredients)
- You want a humectant-only hydrator rather than an occlusive oil
- You have very oily, breakout-prone skin and dislike oils
π― Skin Type Compatibility
The star use case. Rich fatty-acid oils plus humectant honey deeply replenish parched, flaky skin.
Reviewers with combination skin find it balancing; use a couple of drops focused on drier zones.
Antioxidant honey, sea buckthorn and vitamin E support a plumper, smoother look over time.
Lightweight but rich. Some oily users love its balancing feel; others find it too much β apply sparingly.
Soothing botanicals, but bergamot, limonene and linalool mean reactive skin should patch-test first.
Lab-tested non-comedogenic, but not fungal-acne safe β skip if your breakouts are malassezia-driven.
π Results Timeline
Instant Glow & Softness
Skin looks dewy and feels supple right after application, with a non-greasy finish that absorbs in around 30 seconds.
90% noticedLess Dryness & Flaking
With consistent use, dry patches and tightness ease and makeup sits more smoothly over hydrated skin.
75% noticedStronger, Plumper Barrier
Omega-rich oils and antioxidants help skin look more resilient, comfortable and radiant.
60% noticedSofter Look of Fine Lines
Sustained hydration and antioxidant support help the appearance of fine lines and dullness improve over time.
45% noticedβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Fast-absorbing with a glowy, non-greasy finish
- Deeply hydrating β a winter / dry-skin favourite
- Lab-tested non-comedogenic
- Multitasking: skin, hair and makeup mix-in
- Luxurious gel-like texture and elegant packaging
- Antioxidant-rich honey + sea buckthorn + flower oils
β Criticized
- Expensive per ml; small 30ml bottle
- Contains fragrance compounds (limonene, linalool, bergamot)
- Not fungal-acne (malassezia) safe
- Not vegan β contains bee-derived ingredients
- Some find it too rich and slightly residual on oily skin
- No standalone humectants, so pair with a hydrating layer
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Squalane, jojoba and sea buckthorn for a similar lightweight, glowy, barrier-supporting oil. Skips the proprietary honey blend but costs about a third of the price.
A single-ingredient, fragrance-free, fungal-acne-safe occlusive. Far simpler and ultra-cheap, but no antioxidant honey blend or botanical-oil complexity.
Rosehip-led antioxidant oil that overlaps with Honey Grail's flower-oil glow. Less luxurious texture and no honey/sea-buckthorn synergy, but great value.
π Comparison with Competitors
Farmacy Honey Grail (Featured)
~$48Youth To The People Superberry Dream Oil
~$54BYOMA Hydrating Recovery Oil
~$18Kiehl's Midnight Recovery Concentrate
~$58π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight; keep the cap closed to protect the oils from oxidation.
Glass bottle with dropper/pipette and recyclable cap (Farmacy offers a TerraCycle recycling program).
Yes β 30 ml is well under the 100 ml carry-on limit.
β Frequently Asked Questions
The formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone or chemical sunscreen filters β the actives usually flagged during pregnancy β so the core ingredients are generally considered low-risk. However, it does include bergamot oil and naturally occurring fragrance compounds (limonene, linalool), so as with any product during pregnancy or breastfeeding, check with your doctor or OB-GYN before use.
No. It contains multiple fatty-acid plant oils β coconut, evening primrose, sunflower, sea buckthorn, rosehip and hibiscus β that can feed malassezia yeast. If you struggle with fungal acne or malassezia folliculitis, this oil is best avoided in favour of a malassezia-safe option like pure squalane.
Yes. As a fragrance-light, active-free oil, Honey Grail layers well over most treatments. Apply your retinol, vitamin C or exfoliating acid first and let it absorb, then seal with the oil as one of your last steps. It can even help buffer and soothe skin that feels dry from retinoids or acids.
It's at its best on dry, dehydrated, combination and mature skin that wants lasting hydration and glow. Oily and sensitive types can use it sparingly, while those with fungal acne or a strict fragrance-free routine may prefer an alternative.
Hydration and glow are immediate. Most users notice less dryness and flaking within 1β2 weeks, a stronger, more comfortable barrier around 4 weeks, and softer-looking fine lines and texture with consistent use over 8+ weeks.
After your serums and before (or mixed into) your moisturizer. Because oils seal moisture in rather than draw it in, layer it over a hydrating serum or toner. In the morning, always finish with SPF. It can also be mixed into foundation for a dewy glow.
Farmacy has had Honey Grail independently lab-tested and confirmed non-comedogenic. It uses fractionated (liquid) coconut derivatives that lower the pore-clogging risk of raw coconut oil. We'd rate it around 2/5 β low risk for most people β though anyone very breakout-prone should patch-test.
Around 12 months after opening (12M PAO). To keep the antioxidant oils fresh, store it in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight and keep the dropper bottle tightly closed.
Verdict: Farmacy Honey Grail is a beautifully formulated, fast-absorbing facial oil that earns its cult following β a near-universal 4.8 rating across Ulta and Farmacy's own site backs up the hype. Its honey, sea buckthorn and five-flower blend delivers genuine glow and lasting hydration, and lab-tested non-comedogenic status makes it friendlier than most oils for combination and even acne-prone skin. The catches: it's pricey for 30ml, it isn't fungal-acne safe or vegan, and it contains natural fragrance and photosensitizing bergamot, so fragrance-sensitive users and malassezia sufferers should look elsewhere. For dry, dull or mature skin craving a luxurious multitasking glow, it's well worth the splurge.
Product Overview
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging Β«promisesΒ» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Cocoglycerides
Emollient, Emulsifying, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Perfuming, Emollient
|
|
|
| 1 |
Octyldodecanol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Perfuming, Emollient, Fragrance
|
|
|
| 0 |
Cocos Nucifera Oil
Masking, Perfuming, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Crambe Abyssinica Seed Oil
Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning
|
|

