CLAY+essence
  • Abib Hand Crème Type V
    Abib,  body

    Abib Hand Crème Type V

    the claim The Abib Hand Crème Type V  is said to have a scent inspired by Vincent van Gogh, starting with a sweet citrus and finishing with musk and sole. It claims to nourish and soothe hands, making them gentle to touch while also firming the skin barrier to help keep them moisturised.     the science The two ingredients represented at the highest concentrations in the Abib Hand Crème Type V that follow water are Glycerin and Petrolatum. The formula relies heavily on these components to moisturise. They complement each other perfectly. Petrolatum is hydrophobic meaning it has water repelling properties and is insoluble in water therefore forms a…

  • 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…

  • 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.…

  • 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%…

  • Pyunkang Yul Moisture Cream
    moisturize,  Pyunkang Yul

    Pyunkang Yul Moisture Cream

    the claim The Pyunkang Yul Moisture Cream is a powerfully effective daily moisturizer for all skin types, especially those with sensitive, acne-prone or oily skin. Formulated with safe and gentle ingredients free of fragrance and artificial dyes, it goes on smoothly, absorbs easily, providing a soft and supple finish without feeling greasy or sticky.     the science Once again delivering a product with a non-diluted formulation containing more actives, Pyunkang Yul Moisture Cream is concentrated with their trademark star ingredient, Coptis Japonica Root Extract, also known as Goldthread. It is an Asian herb cultivated to answer medicinal needs and often used to treat skin disorders. Goldthread is high in…

  • Trilogy Replenishing Night Cream
    moisturize,  Trilogy

    Trilogy Replenishing Night Cream

    the claim The Trilogy Replenishing Night Cream is an easily absorbed night time moisturiser, serving to nourish and repair during sleep. A nourishing blend of bio-actives, it uses co-enzyme Q10 and Glycablend™ which assist the skin’s natural process of regeneration to restore elasticity, suppleness and smooth fine lines and wrinkles.     the science Blueberry, Pomegranate and Strawberry Seed Oils are anti-ageing powerhouses. Abundant in antioxidants, they are a force against environmental stressors, helping to protect and keep skin youthful. Essential fatty acids diminish the appearance of wrinkles and provide a firmer and plumper looking complexion. They are light, non-greasy, fast absorbing and moisturising, suitable for all skin types. Together,…

  • Huxley Anti-Gravity Cream
    Huxley,  moisturize

    Huxley Anti-Gravity Cream

    the claim The Huxley Anti-Gravity Cream is an antioxidant cream that protects against environmental stressors, smoothing rough and dull skin to reveal healthy, resilient and nourished skin.     the science Commonly known as Sahara Cactus or Prickly Pear, Opuntia Ficus-Indica Extract is sourced from Morocco and present at a dominant concentration of 51% in the formulation of this cream. Used for hundreds of years medicinally, it is more recently recognized for its skin firming properties and ability to protect, smooth, and moisturize.   The plant is hand picked and cold-pressed to procure maximum benefit. In addition to being antioxidant-rich, it is a competent humectant, displaying exceptional moisture retention to…

  • Thank You Farmer - True Water Light Gel Cream
    moisturize,  Thank You Farmer

    Thank You Farmer True Water Light Gel Cream

    the claim The True Water Light Gel Cream from Thank You Farmer claims to provide a thin protective barrier over the skin that is light, fresh, non-sticky and provides long lasting moisture. It is said to be ideal for combination and acne-prone skin.     the science Hydration is of course vital in a moisturiser. After water, Glycerin and Cyclopentasiloxane are present at the highest concentration in the formula. Glycerin is a very common ingredient appearing frequently in creams due to its humectant and emollient properties. These allow it to attract and seal in moisture, thus boosting skin hydration whilst also making skin soft and supple. Cyclopentasiloxane is a synthetically…