Benton Snail Bee Ultimate Hydrogel Eye Patch

The Benton Snail Bee Ultimate Hydrogel Eye Patch claims to hydrate, brighten and nourish the sensitive skin around the eyes with snail secretion, bee venom and seaweed extracts.
 

 

There are three highlighted heroes of this product: Snail Secretion Filtrate, Bee Venom and Seaweed. Saccharomyces/Snail Secretion Filtrate Ferment Filtrate is an ingredient obtained by filtering snail secretion which has been fermented by yeast derived from grapes. This process increases the potency of actives since they can be better absorbed into the skin. Snail mucin is said to aid skin by hydrating, preventing ageing and improving wrinkles and scars. Bee Venom is listed way down the ingredient list, indicating an almost negligible amount. Bee Venom is said to replicate the effect of being stung by a bee (without the pain), resulting in increased blood flow that can stimulate collagen and elastin production for a plumper appearance and a perceived reduction in fine lines and wrinkles. Finally, Carrageenan (sometimes called Irish Moss), is a linear sulfated polysaccharide extracted from red seaweed. As well as displaying water binding ability, it helps to keep oil and water soluble ingredients together for a more stable product. The moisturising effects are enhanced by additional seaweeds including Laminaria Japonica and Porphyra Yezoensis Extracts. Some combination of these seaweed ingredients also comprise the actual patch material which is eco-friendly and fully soluble in water.
 

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) is a superstar ingredient that acts as a restorative agent. It helps to brighten skin by inhibiting melanin production and is also an effective treatment against hyperpigmentation. Niacinamide can improve the appearance of enlarged pores, uneven skin tone, fine lines and dullness plus strengthen the skin surface.

Tea Tree Leaf Water retains antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antiviral and antifungal properties. It has proven an effective and soothing treatment for skin infections and acne. Its ability to remove excess oils from skin by pushing out stale sebum deep within pores can prevent blackheads and acne forming. Furthermore, natural astringent properties are also said to diminish the appearance of large pores. Similarly, p-Anisic acid is a natural plant acid that has proven soothing effects, helping to settle inflamed and irritated skin with antimicrobial properties.

Aloe Vera is anti-inflammatory and packed with vitamins. It can be absorbed up to 7 layers deep. Like Panthenol (Vitamin B5), it can penetrate effectively for considerable cell absorption and moisturisation. This combined with enzyme activity also helps to rejuvenate tissues, promote collagen production plus cleanse and detoxify for healthy pores and skin. A multi-benefit ingredient, it’s additionally an effective humectant, (complementing Glycerin which appears high on the INCI), proficient at water retention thus effective as a moisturising agent. Similar anti-ageing and hydrating behaviours are observed with Beta Glucan, a polysaccharide sugar derived from various mushrooms, plants, algaes, yeast or oats. Its humectant effect is supposedly 20% more hydrating than hyaluronic acid of which the salt form, Sodium Hyaluronate, is also included in this product. Due to its low molecular size, Sodium Hyaluronate can reach deep into the dermis to combine with, maintain and attract water making it a superb natural moisturiser.
 

Butylene Glycol is a humectant that also helps to increase the penetration of other ingredients and hence boost their effectiveness. Propanediol also offers humectant properties while additionally providing an emollient effect to help soften the skin.

Plant extracts contribute several advantages including antioxidant protection against free radicals. Some provide further skin benefits such as Eucalyptus Extract which displays anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and antibacterial behaviour to heal, soothe and ward off infection. Althaea Rosea and Matricaria Flower Extracts also moisturise and soothe inflammation. Algae, Green Tea, Soybean and Pomegranate Extracts are powerful antioxidants able to assist in the repair of sun damaged skin and to prevent new cell damage. Pomegranate and Soybean also extend the life of fibroblasts, the cells responsible for collagen and elastin production, thus strengthening skin support.

Acting as a soothing and skin-restoring agent, Adenosine has proven anti-wrinkle benefits due to its ability to energize the skin’s surface, helping it to look smoother and younger. Copper Tripeptide-1 is a small protein composed of the three amino acids. It is able to accelerate healing as well as deliver anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antioxidant properties.

And what about all the minerals in the formula? Diamond Powder has a gentle exfoliating effect. Together with Mica, they offer immediate brightening when left on the skin, their iridescence able to blur fine lines and other imperfections. Helping to heal blemishes and brighten through melanin suppression, Pearl Powder additionally promotes the regeneration of new skin. It too can disguise imperfections through a natural iridescence. Gold boosts antioxidant activity, Titanium Dioxide is a texture enhancer and whitening agent and Iron Oxides add earthy hues including browns, yellows and reds to probably give the patches their distinctive metallic bronze finish. Often used in clay masks, Charcoal Powder effectively draws out dirt and oil from the pores.

Water (Aqua), Glycerin, Dipropylene Glycol, Niacinamide, Carrageenan, Saccharomyces/Snail Secretion Filtrate Ferment Filtrate, Butylene Glycol, Charcoal Powder, Glucose, Potassium Chloride, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Diamond Powder, Propanediol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Pearl Powder, Citrus Unshiu Peel Extract, p-Anisic acid, Beta-Glucan, Gold, Levulinic acid, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Water, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Extract, Althaea Rosea Flower Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Punica Granatum Fruit (Pomegranate) Extract, Porphyra Yezoensis Extract, Chlorella Vulgaris (Algae) Extract, Laminaria Japonica Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Phytoplacenta Extract, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Copper Tripeptide-1, Dextrin, Ceratonia Siliqua (Carob) Gum, Cyamopsis Tetragonoloba (Guar) Gum, Mica, Titanium dioxide, iron oxides, Panthenol, Arginine, Bee Venom, Ethylhexylglycerin, Adenosine, 1,2-Hexanediol, Aniba Rosodora (Rosewood) Wood Oil
 

 

The Benton Snail Bee Ultimate Hydrogel Eye Patch is presented in a hard plastic tub with screw top lid. Inside there is an inner cap that retains the spatula. When new, all is sealed with a protective cover to keep it air tight and fresh.
 


 

Other than gold, assessments returned by both the CosDNA and EWG resources, rate the Benton Snail Bee Ultimate Hydrogel Eye Patch favourably.
 

 

After toning skin, use the spatula provided to apply the hydrogel patches under the eyes. Remove the patches after 10-20 minutes and gently pat remaining essence until absorbed.
 

 

The Benton Snail Bee Ultimate Hydrogel Eye Patch is free of added fragrance however does release a scent.
 

The tub of 60 individual (30 pairs) Benton Snail Bee Ultimate Hydrogel Eye Patches costs approximately USD$28.00.
 

Benton products are available at Korean skincare boutiques including Style Korean and Yes Style. I received mine directly from the brand in exchange for my honest review.
 

The eye gel patches have a 2 year shelf life and must be used within 6 months of opening.
 

 

As mentioned in previous Benton reviews, the company name is inspired by the movie The Curious Case of Benjamin Button in which the protagonist reverses the ageing cycle and grows younger with time. This reflects the brand’s desire to restore skin back to its original, healthy condition without resorting to using harmful ingredients. With the exclusion of gold, an all green formula is returned for these hydrogel eye patches by both CosDNA and EWG resources, fulfilling the company objective.

The patches are elegantly and typically presented in a screw top plastic tub with lid and inner cap plus plastic dispensing spatula. All this is protected under an aluminium seal when new to ensure the essence and patches are kept fresh. The hydrogels are laid out in a traditional yin and yang arrangement and can be picked up with the assistance of the spatula. They tend to stick together (like all such products) so separating them can be a little tedious. The hydrogels swim around in plenty of essence, ensuring each one comes out sufficiently soaked.
 

They take on a metallic bronze colour which is very aesthetically pleasing. Their form feels thicker and much smoother and softer than any other product of this nature that I have tried thus far, so they are extremely comfortable on the skin. They have a very mild, barely noticeable scent which is the result of the formula. The inclusion of Rosewood Oil is likely to be purely for sensory enjoyment. Throughout the wear time, they offer consistent cooling effects which is sure to please those suffering inflammation and redness, particularly since these can be worn anywhere on the face (even though they’re called eye patches). This cooling sensation can be heightened by storing them in the refrigerator.

I find that they adhere well to the face, although if there is too much essence underneath or not a sufficiently dry skin surface, they will slide around, dropping down the cheek during wear time. The slip subsides after a few minutes and they stay in place once a bit of the essence is absorbed/evaporated. I make sure to store the container upright so excess essence collects at the bottom of the tub. As with most sheet/gel masks, I tend to keep them on for at least their maximum directed wear time which in this case is 20 minutes. The whole experience is satisfying, pampering and refreshing. Regardless of results, they are a joy to use, although pleasantly, they also deliver on that front too. Upon completion, the hydrogel patches still feel quite moist. I remove and pat in any remaining surface essence until fully absorbed.
 

Upon removal, there is an immediately visible plumping effect or depuffing that sees any sign of tiredness giving way to a fresher under eye area. Regarding brightening, I think I observed a more even skin tone and smoother under eye appearance, the area also looking cooler (less red) and fine lines plumping out (looking reduced). Of course, as is typical with this sort of product, this effect is short lived.
 

The Benton Snail Bee Ultimate Hydrogel Eye Patch adds a touch of luxury to any routine. They look incredible, the metallic bronze finish is a really dazzling feature. Their soft and luxurious texture makes them a pleasure to wear. Comparing these to all the gel patches I have tried, I have to admit, these are definitely new favourites. Although no one really needs hydrogel patches, they are great for some pampering and relaxation.
 

 

Benton website
Niacinamide Paula’s Choice Skincare Dictionary
Niacinamide Benefits for Skin Jared Paventi
What are the Best Products with Niacinamide? Nicki Zevola Benvenuti
Glycerin Paula’s Choice Skincare Dictionary
Should You Worry About Carrageenan in Your Skin Care? Annemarie Skin Care
Beta Glucan is the Future of Skincare Mack In Style
This Little-Known Skincare Ingredient Might Take Over Hyaluronic Acid’s Job Kaitlyn McLintock
So THAT’S Why People Are Putting Snail Essence On Their Faces Suzy Strutner
All About Bee Venom and Honey in Skincare Lab Muffin
Tea Tree Oil webMD
Tea Tree Oil Wikipedia
The Tea Tree Skin “Miracle” – The 7 Benefits of Tea Tree Oil Body Ecology
16 Beauty Benefits of Tea Tree Essential Oil for Skin, Hair & More Beauty Munsta
Tea Tree Oil Paula’s Choice Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary
Sodium Hyaluronate Truth In Aging
Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice Radiant RG-Cell Cosmeceuticals
Butylene Glycol The Dermatology Review
Sodium anisate/p-Anisic acid Odylique website
Eucalyptus Leaf Oil Benefits for Skin Herbal Dynamics Beauty
Punica Granatum Truth In Aging
Copper Tripeptide-1 Charlene DeHaven, MD
Light Up Your Face with Diamonds and Pearls: Topical Minerals for the Skin Herbal Dynamics Beauty
Here’s Why Gold-Infused Skincare May Not Be Worth The Hype Dana Oliver
Carrageenan Wikipedia

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