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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…
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ByWishtrend Mandelic Acid 5% Skin Prep Water
the claim Mandelic Acid 5% Skin Prep Water ByWishtrend is a hydrating daily exfoliant which can be used on even sensitive skin without irritation to improve skin tone and texture whilst boosting the effectiveness of products to follow. the science As the name suggests, Mandelic Acid is the key ingredient in this formula, second only in concentration to water. Mandelic Acid is an Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) made from the extract of bitter almonds, it’s name derived from the German word for almond, “mandel”. It delivers similar benefits as other AHAs such as glycolic and lactic acids but because it comprises larger molecules, it doesn’t penetrate the skin…
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Olive Oil Skincare Company Juniper Orange Face Wash
the claim The Olive Oil Skincare Company Juniper Orange Face Wash claims to be the ideal daily cleanser and tonic for maintaining healthy, smooth and radiant skin. Rich in antioxidants and vitamins it helps to fight the signs of ageing and benefit problem skin conditions. the science The Juniper Orange Face Wash comprises 100% natural ingredients, a total of 14, without SLS (sodium lauryl sulfate), parabens, palm oil, artificial fragrance or colours. This indicates a favourable product in terms of composition. An investigation into the individual components will allow us to see if it is an effective, non-irritating cleanser. The face wash comprises a series of all-natural surfactants,…
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Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Night Cream
the claim Olay claim that their Regenerist Micro-sculpting Night Moisturiser will nourish skin overnight, leaving it intensely moisturized and younger-looking by reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It is said to have a super-hydrating formula with Amino-Peptide Complex that penetrates 10 layers deep to regenerate surface skin cells. the science A cream with the title “Regenerist” and claims of scientific evidence to support its efficacy needs some serious investigation. Silicon-based ingredients are heavily represented in the formulation, designed to hydrate and smooth the appearance of the skin surface. Present at the highest concentration after water is Cyclopentasiloxane, a synthetic silicone derivative with emollient properties to soothe…
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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…
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Fresh Face Skin Overnight Reverser
the claim Fresh Face Skin claim that their Overnight Reverser treatment is a one-step evening application that will lighten uneven skin tone, hydrate, increase skin moisture levels, speed up cell turnover, increase collagen and elastin production whilst also boosting skin’s antioxidant levels. The result, plump, smooth, fresh face glow. the science The claims of this treatment are broad and optimistic, so let’s consider whether the ingredients exhibit the behaviours required to fulfil them. Starting with the highest concentrations, water is followed by sweet almond seed oil which is rich in Vitamin E, monounsaturated fatty acids, proteins, potassium and zinc. The sweet variety comes from edible almonds and is a…
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Pyunkang Yul Essence Toner
the claim The Pyunkang Yul Essence Toner claims to nurture, hydrate, soothe and revitalise dull skin. the science Another offering from the renowned Pyunkang Oriental Medicine Clinic in Seoul, Pyunkang Yul, this essence toner follows the principles of minimal ingredients for maximum concentrated benefits. The key active in the formula is present at a huge concentration of 91.3%. Astragalus Membranaceus (Milk Vecht) Root Extract has been used in eastern medicine for over 4,000 years as a tonic and an antipathogen. It is able to revitalise by improving circulation which increases blood flow to areas of topical application. This activity removes toxins caused by inflammation and allows nutrients…
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Heimish All Clean White Clay Foam
the claim The Heimish All Clean White Clay Foam claims to remove impurities from the skin and pores for a refreshing sensation. the science This is not a standard foam cleanser in that one of its key actives is Amazon White Clay (kaolin), more commonly found in a face mask due to its texture and purification properties. The other featured ingredients in the formula include Hyaluronic Acid, Coconut Oil and Citrus Oils. Kaolin is the most gentle of facial clays making it suitable for all skin types. It displays excellent absorption, allowing it to pull impurities out from the skin surface. As such, it helps to gently exfoliate…
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Pixi Glow Tonic
the claim The Pixi Glow Tonic claims to be a highly concentrated, invigorating facial toner that deeply cleans pores by sweeping away excess oil and impurities. the science Other than water, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, commonly known as aloe vera, is the ingredient present at the highest concentration in the Pixi Glow Tonic formula. Aloe vera has been used medicinally in many cultures for centuries due to its excellent anti-inflammatory properties. It is able to soothe the skin when used topically, easing burns, scars and wounds whilst also protecting from UV damage. Containing multi vitamins, (A, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B12, C, E, Choline and Folic Acid),…
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Toners Explained
the toner types In our teens we started to experiment with skincare. We were advised that toning was the necessary step between cleansing and moisturising. We didn’t quite understand why but it seemed essential, particularly since the routine only included three steps. Nowadays, there are a lot more toners on the market that are designed to achieve different outcomes. We are more educated about their importance and have a greater choice from which to select. But, given this, it can also be confusing. This article explores the differences between traditional western toners, hydrating toners as commonly used in Asia and acid toners. I explain when and how to use…
