CLAY+essence
  • Akuka Seaweed Body Scrub
    Akuka,  body,  exfoliate

    Akuka Seaweed Body Scrub

    the claim The Akuka Seaweed Body Scrub claims to be a thick granulated body scrub with nutrient rich Seaweed and Pacific Sea Salt submerged in a base of softening Coconut and Almond Oils to exfoliate the skin leaving it smooth, supple and glowing. Added Green Clay deeply purifies and clears the pores.     the science Present at the highest concentration in the formulation is Almond Seed Oil which is rich in Vitamin E, monounsaturated fatty acids, proteins, potassium and zinc. The fatty acids serve as a natural emollient, locking in moisture by forming a protective barrier. It is also a gentle exfoliant, clearing dead skin cells and stimulating new…

  • Olive Oil Skincare Company Naturally Nourished Hand Cream
    body,  Olive Oil Skincare Company

    Olive Oil Skincare Company Hand Cream

    the claim The Olive Oil Skincare Company Naturally Nourished Hand Cream claims be smooth, creamy and quickly absorbed to revive and moisturize, leaving hands soft, silky and deeply hydrated.     the science As anticipated, Olive Oil and all its derivatives are the star ingredients in the formulation. Olive Oil contains three powerful antioxidants: vitamin E, polyphenols and phytosterols which help to protect against premature ageing by restoring skin smoothness and protecting against ultraviolet light. It penetrates deeply to provide both cleansing and moisturising effects. Bi-products of olives and olive oil play a huge part in this product. Ethylhexyl Olivate is a natural ester of skin-conditioning fatty acids derived from…

  • Coast Sydney Botanicals Nephelium Strengthen 2
    Coast Sydney Botanicals,  moisturize

    Coast Sydney Botanicals Nephelium Strengthen 2

    the claim The Coast Sydney Botanicals Nephelium Strengthen 2 claims to be a highly concentrated strengthening skin booster with the texture of a lotion. Combining eastern ingredients with western technology, 2% Nephelium extract upon which this product is based is said to reduce fine lines plus smooth and tighten skin after 28 days of use.     the science In a formula free of water, Camomile Hydrosol is found at the highest concentration. Camomile flowers are used to produce a gentle distillate. The resultant hydrosol exhibits anti-inflammatory and soothing properties so is a perfect choice for inflamed, acneic or generally problem skin. It sets the base for a relatively short…

  • Akuka,  body

    Akuka Seaweed Body Moisturiser

    the claim The Akuka Seaweed Body Moisturiser claims to be a decadent body moisturiser with nutrient rich Seaweed to soften and rejuvenate the skin while Jojoba and Coconut Oils provide long-lasting hydration.     the science The first thing that struck me about this product is that it is waterless, instead, liquid primarily represented by Aloe Vera Leaf Juice, a soothing and moisturising powerhouse replacement. Rich in vitamins and antioxidants, one of its strengths lies in its ability to neutralise free radicals and heal skin damage. It displays excellent anti-ageing properties. Due to its ability to be deeply penetrated, aloe can trigger enzymes to stimulate collagen production and assist to…

  • Hivita Luminous White Age Defy
    Hivita,  moisturize

    Hivita Luminous White Age Defy

    the claim The Hivita Luminous White Age Defy is a luxury moisturiser formulated with a patented blend of 100% natural ingredients to deliver a skincare system clinically proven to decrease pigmentation, reverse sun damage, lighten age spots, reduce wrinkle and protect against pollution.     the science Within a 100% natural formulation, following water which is present at the highest concentration is Jojoba Seed Oil, a unique oil composed of 97% wax esters. This oil/wax resembles human sebum ensuring easy absorption into the skin for superior moisturisation without clogging pores. Additionally, this characteristic helps regulate sebum production and balance facial oils. Important for skin cell regeneration, it is rich in…

  • 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%…

  • Sukin Detoxifying Clay Masque
    mask,  Sukin,  wash off

    Sukin Detoxifying Clay Masque

    the claim The Sukin Detoxifying Clay Masque is enriched with vitamins and antioxidants to detox and brighten the complexion and minimise the appearance of fine lines without drying. Skin is replenished, contributing towards a youthful glow.     the science Typical players in a clay mask, Kaolin and Bentonite feature strongly in the formulation. Together they deliver a super detoxifying effect with their absorption capabilities, able to draw out impurities, excess oil and dirt to achieve clear skin and clean pores. This makes them ideal for oily and acne-prone skin types. Cetyl and Cetearyl Alcohols are non-irritating and non-drying displaying emollient and occlusive properties. They also assist to keep the…

  • Simple hydrating cleansing oil
    first cleanse,  Simple

    Simple Hydrating Cleansing Oil

    the claim The Simple Kind To Skin Hydrating Cleansing Oil is made of pure grape-seed oil and enriched with vitamin A and E to dissolve impurities and remove make up, leaving your skin deeply clean and well hydrated.     the science The key ingredient in the formulation is Grape Seed Oil, comprising approximately 70% Linoleic Acid (Omega 6), 16% Oleic Acid (Omega 9), 7% Palmitic Acid and 4% Stearic Acid and small amounts of Palmitoleic Acid, Vitamin E and beta-Carotene. Lighter than coconut or jojoba oil, it’s easily absorbed into the skin, effectively moisturising without leaving an oily residue. Its astringent and antiseptic qualities help to nourish and repair…

  • Swisse Deep Sea Hydrating Mist Toner
    hydrating toner,  mist,  Swisse

    Swisse Deep Sea Hydrating Mist Toner

    the claim The Swisse Deep Sea Hydrating Mist Toner is a natural mist spray to hydrate and tone the skin.     the science Included at the highest concentration in the formulation is Aqueous Extract of Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf, a multi-purpose ingredient suited to all skin types, particularly that in need of hydration or repair. Helping to nourish the skin are vitamin B complex, folic acid, vitamin C and carotene. Polysaccharides create a protective barrier on the skin, delivering hydration and emollient properties. Antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory behaviours come from a high number of anthraquinones and phytosterols which help to soothe and moisturise skin while flavones protect from free-radical…