CLAY+essence
  • 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.…

  • 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…

  • Innisfree Black Green-Tea Mask
    Innisfree,  mask,  wash off

    Innisfree Black Green-Tea Mask

    the claim The Innisfree Black Green-Tea Mask is made from 55% fermented fresh Jeju green tea leaves to deliver a strong antioxidant effect to nourish the skin for a clear complexion. It provides skin with cooling and soothing effects as well as removing excess dead cells for clean and soft skin.     the science This mask comprises 55% pesticide and chemical free Jeju green tea that has been fermented and matured for 100 days in two stages for maximum skin benefit. Green Tea Extract  is a potent antioxidant source that helps to protect skin from free radical damage, reduce inflammation, clear cell damage and help to repair wrinkles. When…

  • 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…

  • Mask of Magnaminty
    Lush,  mask,  wash off

    Lush Mask of Magnaminty

    the claim The Lush Mask of Magnaminty claims to be a multi-purpose mask designed to deliver a refreshing, deep cleanse and help to maintain bright and healthy skin.     the science Lush stresses their Zambian Honey is fairly traded and sourced from wild bees using traditional methods. Due to its strong antimicrobial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties, honey is able to cleanse and protect skin and also contributes natural preservative function to the mask. As a humectant, it draws and retains moisture for increased skin hydration and suppleness. Kaolin is present at the next highest concentration. Kaolin helps to cleanse and exfoliate by absorbing excess oil, particularly effective for acne-prone…

  • LJH Vita Propolis Ampoule
    ampoule,  Dr. Ceuracle

    Dr. Ceuracle Vita-Propolis Ampoule

    the claim Rebranded from Leegeehaam and Lee Jiham, the Dr. Ceuracle Vita Propolis Ampoule claims to be the perfect combination of vitamin and propolis for bright, glowing and radiant skin with powerful ingredients delivering moisturisation, firming, soothing and anti-ageing effects.     the science Propolis Extract is basically a combination of beeswax, enzymes and tree sap used by bees to seal, disinfect and waterproof their hive. Coincidentally, it also makes an excellent skincare ingredient, found at a high concentration of 50% in this ampoule. It has been used medicinally to help heal wounds for centuries. Rich in flavonoids, propolis displays powerful antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties. Its high antioxidant content…

  • Sulwhasoo Clarifying Mask
    mask,  Sulwhasoo,  wash off

    Sulwhasoo Clarifying Mask Ex

    the claim The Sulwhasoo Clarifying Mask Ex claims to clear, calm and reinvigorate skin, giving it a soft radiance, leaving it clear and translucent.     the science In order to deliver skin “translucency”, there are several lightening, protective and brightening actives in the formulation. Polygonatum Officinale Rhizome/Root Extract is also known as Solomon’s Seal and is one of the key actives of this mask. It is a powerful clarifying agent, useful for the treatment of acne and effective at reducing redness and dark spots. Panax Ginseng Root Extract is packed with phytonutrients and antioxidants which defend against UV and environmental stress and stimulate cell regeneration. By improving blood circulation,…

  • Skin Food Black Sugar mask
    mask,  Skinfood,  wash off

    Skinfood Black Sugar Mask

    the claim The Skinfood Black Sugar Mask claims to contain mineral-enriched Brazilian black sugar for excellent keratin improvement, promoting smooth, glowing skin.     the science Not surprisingly, the highest concentration of the mask formulation comprises Sucrose, a natural sugar. Sucrose effectively and naturally delivers both a physcial and chemical exfoliation to the skin. A glycolic acid source (alpha hydroxy acid), it penetrates the skin to encourage cell turnover whilst it’s grainy physical texture also makes it an excellent topical exfoliant, both assisting to achieve a fresher, younger looking complexion. As a humectant, sucrose attracts and retains moisture helping to keep skin hydrated, complementing the abrasive nature of the resurfacing…

  • Innisfree Perfect 9 Repair Eye Cream
    eye,  Innisfree

    Innisfree Perfect 9 Repair Eye Cream

    the claim The Innisfree Perfect 9 Repair Eye Cream claims to be a complete anti-ageing eye solution. It contains 9 active ingredients from the Jeju Island elixir complex™ to firm and brighten skin and also combat the symptoms of ageing: dryness, wrinkles, flakiness, darkening, blemishes, enlarged pores and reduced elasticity.     the science This concentrated eye cream contains 9 active ingredients from the Jeju Island elixir complex™ said to tighten and brighten the sensitive skin around the eyes. Innisfree fails to identify which 9 extracts are sourced from Korea’s Jeju Island and since I am not familiar with the region’s natural resources, I will simply review this as any…

  • Petitfee Black Pearl & Gold Hydrogel Eye Patch
    eye,  mask,  Petitfee

    Petitfee Black Pearl & Gold Hydrogel Eye Patch

    the claim Petitfee Black Pearl & Gold Hydrogel Eye Patches claim to pamper and relax your under eyes providing an intensely hydrating infusion of moisture plus vital nutrients. They compare the experience and results to that achieved from a professional spa treatment.   the science Included within the formula of these hydrogel patches are several plant extracts whose general benefits incorporate anti-ageing, soothing and protection properties. Natural plant extracts have a proven ability to improve both skin and overall health. More specifically, they provide the following qualities: The extract from the bamboo plant, Bambusa Textilis Stem Extract, can sooth skin and diminish uneven skin tone. Grapefruit Seed Extract, rich in…