CLAY+essence
Antipodes,  eye

Antipodes Kiwi Seed Oil Eye Cream

the claim

The Antipodes Kiwi Seed Oil Eye Cream claims to be a luscious yet lightweight cream that provides a cooling, soothing treatment for the delicate eye area. Rich in Vitamin C from the New Zealand kiwifruit, it is able to moisturise and soften fine lines. The Gold Luminous version promises a shimmery glow with 23K gold flakes.
 
Antipodes Kiwi Seed Oil Eye Cream
 

the science

There are a handful of natural oils in the formula that each contribute moisturising and antioxidant benefits.
 
The hero is of course Kiwifruit Seed Oil, an ingredient effective at improving skin elasticity and reducing fine lines and wrinkles. With more than 60% (essential) Alpha Linolenic Acid, its moisturising capability is strong. It’s also a rich source of Vitamins C and E so additionally provides antioxidant protection. Comprising beta carotene, protein, lecithin, fatty acids plus vitamins A, D and E, Avocado Oil helps to moisturise and hydrate the skin, protect it from UV radiation, accelerate healing and also increase collagen metabolism. Similarly, Carrot Seed Oil is an emollient with softening and hydrating properties. Also containing Vitamin A and beta carotene, it effectively defends against free radical damage. Meanwhile, Borage Oil is rich in Gamma Linolenic Acid which is essential for replenishing the skin’s protective barrier. This makes it a saviour for dryness, helping to deliver smooth, plump, supple and radiant skin. It is an excellent treatment for skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and rosacea.
 
Sunflower Seed Oil is a well absorbed, lightweight oil without residue and rich in linoleic acid and Vitamin E. Essential fatty acids help to maintain the skin barrier and decrease transepidermal water loss, keeping skin supple and soft. Antioxidants provide anti-ageing advantages, caretenoids make it a good acne treatment while anti-inflammatory properties boost new cell production and reduce irritation for a radiant glow. Bisabolol also enhances hydration, assisting to reduce flaking and skin damage caused by a lack of moisture. It boasts a high panthenol concentration so can also effectively stimulate and promote the skin’s healing process.
 
Antipodes Kiwi Seed Oil Eye Cream
Vinanza Grape Seed Extract is a potent antioxidant that helps to improve elasticity and firmness. This function is further boosted by Tocopherol (Vitamin E).
 
Finally, a solid dose of Glycerin contributes humectant properties to the eye cream, helping to draw moisture from the air into the skin. Coconut derived Cetearyl Alcohol is a fatty alcohol that works as an emollient to effectively condition and soften the skin. Remaining ingredients are included for texture enhancement and product preservation.
 
The only difference between the two versions of eye cream is the inclusion of gold pigment (Mica and 23K Gold flakes) which are only present in the new luminous variety. The flakes are said to reflect light for a luminous finish and gold is also said to have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
 

the ingredients

The formulas of the two eye creams are identical apart from the inclusion of the ingredients shown in burgundy (ie. gold mica and gold flakes) which only appear in the luminous version.
 
Aqua (Water), Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Glycerin, Cetearyl Glucoside, Cetearyl Alcohol, Stearic Acid (Vegetable), Glyceryl Stearate, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Gold Pearl Pigment (Mica), Dehydroacetic Acid, Benzyl Alcohol, Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot Seed) Oil, Actinidia Chinensis (Kiwifruit Seed) Oil, Borago Officinalis (Borage) Oil, Bisabolol, Vitis Vinifera (Vinanza Grape Seed) Extract, Gold (23k pure gold flakes)
 
Antipodes Kiwi Seed Oil Eye Cream Ingredients
 

the packaging

Both eye creams are presented in a glass screw top jar with protective inner cap and outer box. There is no spatula included. When brand new, they have a cling wrap seal.
 
Antipodes Kiwi Seed Oil Eye Cream Presentation
 

the analysis

The assessments returned from both the CosDNA and EWG resources rate the Antipodes Kiwi Seed Oil Eye Cream favourably without warning flags.
 
Antipodes Kiwi Seed Oil Eye Cream CosDNA Analysis
 

the application

Soothe the area around your eyes using clean fingertips to pat cream in gently. Apply in am and pm routines.
 

the scent

The Antipodes Kiwi Seed Oil Eye Creams has a very subtle, light scent.
 

the cost

A 30ml jar of the Antipodes Kiwi Seed Oil Eye Cream costs AUD$65 and the Antipodes Luminous Gold Kiwi Seed Oil Eye Cream AUD$72 (correct at time of publishing).
 

the availability

Antipodes products are available at department stores and pharmacies as well as on the brand’s website.
 

the expiry

The eye creams must be used within 6 months of opening and have a four year shelf life.
 
Antipodes Kiwi Seed Oil Eye Cream Expiry
 

the performance

Presentation is elegant although not necessarily the most hygienic option since the lack of a spatula encourages application using your fingers. Ideally, a pump action dispenser would be better. However, there are preservatives in action so using clean fingers, the eye cream should retain its microbe free nature during the recommended open time of 6 months. Only the smallest amount is needed so it is unlikely that the hefty 30ml jar of cream will finish in this period, even with twice daily use. This also reflects good value for money (most eye creams presented at smaller volumes, typically 15-20ml), even though the initial outlay might appear a little high. I must admit, I often use creams past their suggested expiration if there is no evidence of degradation such as colour, texture or scent change. Good manufacturers tend to err on the side of caution when it comes to ensuring product safety and freshness. Furthermore, I sometimes use an eye cream as a full face moisturiser to finish it as expiry looms, rather then waste it. I can see myself resorting to this with these two products.
 
Antipodes Kiwi Seed Oil Eye Cream
The original has an off white, creamy finish while the luminous resembles a milky coffee colour. This is achieved with mica. It also has 23K gold flakes stirred through it.
 
Antipodes Gold Luminous Kiwi Seed Oil Eye CreamThe gold flakes can be seen in this close up, all random in size as expected. Apart from the flakes, the texture of both creams is identical. It’s very lightweight with easy glide. Both behave the same way in every aspect other than final appearance, the gold one imparting a pretty but subtle gold sheen. I find that it’s perfect for makeup free days when you want to illuminate the under eye area and lid in a natural looking way. The effects are wasted if you layer makeup over the top.
 
As such, it makes sense to apply the original one under makeup (layers well) or as a night cream, and use the gold during makeup free days to exploit that glow! The glossy cream feels cooling immediately upon application. It’s slick in texture but not oily and dries down to a smooth finish lacking tackiness, stickiness and greasiness. Over applying can result in a longer lasting feeling of light oiliness on the surface. My normal to combination skin loves the consistency and application when just the right amount is used. Neither version of this cream resulted in any milia or irritation during the six week trial.
 
Antipodes Kiwi Seed Oil Eye Cream Texture
Using any combination of the two creams twice daily has left the delicate skin around my eyes well hydrated, soft, supple and moisturised. This together with the antioxidant and collagen building content also promises delay in the onset of fine lines and the progression of existing ones. Such defense against aging is impossible to confirm or disprove without lab conditions plus more stringent and controlled testing. However, the formula and science certainly suggest this is a feasible long term outcome.
 
As for the added enhancement of glow, the luminous version imparts a subtle sheen. It’s not obvious. It doesn’t look like you’ve applied highlighter around your eyes. In fact, it’s not really noticeable unless it reflects the light. I tend to also apply it where I would add highlight to give my face more glow. It’s much more evident in natural sunshine than artificial light too. I think the overall effect would probably be more noticeable on darker skin tones where the gold flicker would be better contrasted. It’s certainly easier to detect on my daughter who is sporting a natural light tan at the moment, supporting this suggestion. If you don’t like the idea of a golden flicker, then just use the original since it provides the exact same skin benefits but without the pizzazz!
 
As far as the lasting power goes, the moisturisation lingers between applications. Regarding the reflective glow however, the effects don’t seem to stay as long. Their longevity is dependent on factors such as the amount you touch your face as well as the level of moisture or dryness in both the skin and the air. Furthermore, applying cream or sunscreen over the top, reduces the glow so in practice, it has to be the final layer in order to make any sort of impression.
 
Antipodes Kiwi Seed Oil Eye Cream
 

the conclusion

I really enjoyed the texture of these eye creams. They are silky, applying without tackiness or greasiness and absorbing quickly. They are both lightweight and hydrating, a combination I love in eye products. They’re also loaded with ingredients to prevent premature ageing. I believe they would be suitable for all skin types.
 
The gold shimmer of the luminous version is very pretty, particularly reflected against natural light, however, only noticeable on makeup free days.
 
Antipodes Kiwi Seed Oil Eye Cream
 

the summary

Pros Cons
Light, fast absorbing without residue Not optimum, albeit elegant packaging
Quality CosDNA and EWG approved formula Luminous glow only effective without makeup
Provides lasting moisture
Gentle, suitable for all skin types
Cost effective

 

the references

Antipodes website
What Are the Benefits of Using Avocado Oil on My Skin? Healthline
Kiwi Seed Oil facts and benefits Health Benefits Times
Borage seed oil: why this new wonder oil could be your dry skin saviour Amber Ascroft
Carrot Seed Oil Nourished Life
Cetearyl Alcohol Truth In Aging
Cetearyl Wheat Straw Glycosides EcoStore
Stearic Acid The Derm Review
Sunflower Seed, the Skin Protector Annmarie Skin Care
Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil Benefits In Organic Cosmetics Naturelle Cosmetics
Bisabolol Truth In Aging

 


the disclaimer

Please read in context with my disclaimer.
 
This product was provided to me free of charge by Antipodes. This post only includes my honest opinion and experience of this product and is in no way influenced by Antipodes, any of its representatives or any other third party.
 


 

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Shares