CLAY+essence
  • re:p Bio Fresh Mask With Real Nutrition Herb
    mask,  re:p,  wash off

    re:p Bio Fresh Mask With Real Nutrition Herbs

    the claim The re:p Bio Fresh Mask With Real Nutrition Herbs claims to soothe irritated, stressed and troubled skin with natural vegan-friendly ingredients that gently peel away trapped impurities and soothe irritations for supple and softer skin.     the science Following water in the formula is Kaolin, included because of its detoxifying effect brought on by strong absorption capabilities. Kaolin is able to draw out impurities, excess oil and dirt to achieve clear skin and clean pores, making it ideal for oily and acne-prone skin.   Rich in vitamin E and K, Canola Oil  helps to soothe the skin by easing acne, blemishes and even fine lines. Antioxidants protect…

  • Missha First Treatment Essence
    essence,  Missha

    Missha First Treatment Essence (Intensive Moist)

    the claim The Missha First Treatment Essence (Intensive Moist) claims it is a highly concentrated essential essence for the first step of skin care which helps maintain optimal balance and condition of skin by developing the skin’s reserves of water.     the science The star ingredient in the Missha First Treatment Essence (Intensive Moist) formula is Saccharomyces Ferment Filtrate (Yeast Essence E100), a water-like liquid which results from the fermenting and filtering of yeast obtained from Himalayan purple barley. Fermentation is common in Korean skincare. The process basically reduces the molecular structure of actives for deeper penetration and absorption. Yeast Essence E100 contains at least 30% amino acids, 15%…

  • Pyunkang Yul Moisture Ampoule
    ampoule,  Pyunkang Yul

    Pyunkang Yul Moisture Ampoule

    the claim The Pyunkang Yul Moisture Ampoule claims to be a high-potency moisture booster that calms, smooths and destresses skin for a glowing complexion.     the science In a sophisticated and innovative product comprising a waterless formula of only 6 ingredients, Coptis Japonica Root Extract, also known as Japanese Goldthread, is present at a concentration of 91% and is the only active in the Pyunkang Yul Moisture Ampoule. High in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, Japanese Goldthread exhibits soothing effects to the skin which is why it is often cultivated for medicinal purposes and used to treat skin disorders. It has a cooling sensation that helps to decrease skin temperature…

  • Nip+Fab Glycolic Fix Night Pads
    acid toner,  Nip+Fab

    Nip+Fab Glycolic Fix Night Pads (Extreme)

    the claim The Nip+Fab Glycolic Fix Night Pads (Extreme) claim to refine pores, brighten the complexion and decongest the skin through the improvement of the skin’s natural exfoliation process.   the science Glycolic Acid, an Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) sourced from sugar cane is present at a 5% concentration in these pads. Its exfoliation properties are able to remove dead skin cells and accelerate cellular renewal to deliver a smooth and radiant skin surface. In removing surface grime, it allows antioxidants, peptides and other nutrients to travel deeper for more effective treatment. Glycolic acid displays a small molecular structure which assists it to deeply penetrate the skin. It softens fine…

  • Timeless Dark Circle Eye Cream
    eye,  Timeless

    Timeless Dark Circle Eye Cream

    the claim The Timeless Dark Circle Eye Cream claims to be a light, non-oily, fragrance free eye cream that will lighten dark circles and bags under the eyes.     the science The hero ingredients in this formulation are Eyeliss, Haloxyl and Hyaluronic Acid.   The combination of Hesperidin Methyl Chalcone (a flavenoid which strengthens capillaries), Steareth-20  (a stabilizer), Dipeptide-2  (improves lymphatic drainage so that under eye bags are diminished) and Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7  (an antioxidant and together with Palmitoyl Oligopeptide forms Matrixyl 3000) is referred to as Eyeliss, manufactured by French company Sederma. It is included at a concentration of 3% to prevent puffiness and reduces bags under the eyes.…

  • Pyunkang Yul Cleansing Foam
    Pyunkang Yul,  second cleanse

    Pyunkang Yul Cleansing Foam

    the claim The Pyunkang Yul Cleansing Foam is said to be a vacuum cleanser for the pores. The dense but gentle foam adheres strongly to waste and sebum to lift and remove for clean skin without drying.     the science The star active ingredient in Pyunkang Yul Cleansing Foam is Siler Root Extract which has been used traditionally for centuries in Chinese herbal medicine. Its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties deliver healing effects so it has been useful for treating contact dermatitis and allergic skin reactions. It also helps to control oil production. Next in concentration is Glycerin. Together with Beeswax, they deliver much required humectant properties to ensure the…

  • Andalou Naturals Pumpkin Honey Glycolic Mask
    Andalou Naturals,  mask,  wash off

    Andalou Naturals Pumpkin Honey Glycolic Mask

    the claim The Andalou Naturals Pumpkin Honey Glycolic Mask claims to gently dissolve and sweep away dull, dry surface cells, exfoliating and resurfacing for even skin tone, smooth texture and luminous complexion.     the science Represented at the highest concentration, organic Pumpkin is full of beta-carotene and also a good source of vitamins and minerals. Its enzymes break down the outer layers of skin to exfoliate and decongest pores naturally. Vitamin A stimulates collagen production and cell regeneration and Vitamin C can help remedy damage created by free radicals. Organic Sunflower Seed Oil  is also rich in beta-carotene. As the body converts beta-carotene into retinol (vitamin A), these ingredients…

  • Klairs Supple Preparation Toners
    hydrating toner,  Klairs

    Klairs Supple Preparation Toners

    the claim Both the Original and the Unscented Klairs Supple Preparation Toners are said to be lightweight and designed to restore skin moisture and pH level after cleansing. With the aid of plant extracts, hyaluronic acid and beta-glucan, they keep skin calm, hydrated and soothed. Recommended for normal, dry, combination and sensitive skin types.     the science Following water, Butylene Glycol  is found in the formulation at the highest concentration. Its ability to improve the penetration and hence increase the effectiveness of the ingredients that follow is its main strength. It also has humectant properties, drawing moisture from the atmosphere for a hydration boost. Also referred to as Methylsulfonylmethane…

  • Fresh Face Skin Overnight Soother
    Fresh Face Skin,  oil

    Fresh Face Skin Overnight Soother

    the claim The Fresh Face Skin Overnight Soother is a treatment that claims to be a combination of natural oils which provide skin with the nourishment it needs to strengthen and calm while overcoming any sensitivity and dryness.     the science Together, Jojoba Oil/Macadamia Seed Oil Esters, Squalene, Phytosteryl Macadamiate and Phytosterols are referred to as L22, a patented botanical emollient base which emulates the skin surface lipid profile of a healthy 22 year old. The lipid barrier protects from water loss, environmental stressors and bacteria. It is responsible for the recovery and maintenance of our skin health. L22 revives the skin barrier to increase moisture and hydration lost…

  • Elucent Anti-Ageing Day Moisturiser
    Elucent,  moisturize,  sunscreen

    Elucent Anti-Ageing Day Moisturiser

    the claim The Elucent Anti-Ageing Day Moisturiser claims to be a state-of-the-art triple moisturiser that visibly reduces wrinkles with 4% AHAs, helps maintain hydration by lessening water loss and improves texture and tone with vitamins B3 and E. Furthermore, it is said to assist with protecting against the damaging effects of the sun with a broad spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen.     the science Although actives are listed with their corresponding concentrations, the ingredient list is provided in no particular order so it complicates the analysis when trying to determine the product’s overall effectiveness. Let’s consider the highlighted actives first, those dedicated to sun protection which collectively make up 9%…