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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.
 
Akuka Seaweed Body Moisturiser
 

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 cleanse and detoxify skin. As an effective humectant, aloe juice increases water retention while antimicrobial properties protect against bacteria.

Supporting aloe perfectly, is the star ingredient of this product, Seaweed Extract. Considered a superfood for the skin, it draws mineral elements and micronutrients from the ocean. It too is a potent antioxidant and anti-ageing ingredient. It is able to protect the skin from free radicals and helps to increase collagen production for skin tightening effects and wrinkle reduction. Anti-inflammatory properties assure it is a useful treatment for acne and rosacea.

Camellia Oil  and Jojoba Seed Oil  are easily absorbed to offer hydration without leaving a greasy residue or clogging pores. High levels of fatty acids make them excellent emollients, successful at retaining and enhancing skin moisture. Together with Green Tea and Pomegranate Extracts, they further strengthen the already impressive antioxidant presence. Coconut Oil  is also great for moisture retention and barrier strengthening due to its high concentration of saturated fats. It’s antimicrobial and soothing, helping to speed up the skin’s natural healing process. Contrary to Camelia and Jojoba Oils it can however be comedogenic, potentially problematic for acne and blemish prone skin.

Derived from the karite (shea) tree nut and cacao bean respectively, Shea and Cocoa Butters are emollients high in fatty acids and vitamins. They are excellent skin softeners which also exhibit soothing and healing properties to condition skin.

Uniquely Australian, antioxidant rich Kakadu Plum is one of the most potent sources of vitamin C as well as being a great inhibitor of bacteria and fungi. Together with anti-inflammatory properties, it offers and an excellent defense against ageing, acne and skin irritations.

There are mixed reactions to using essential oils in skincare. Some consider them too sensitizing to put on the skin, even at highly diluted levels. However, the benefits they contribute when used properly can be advantageous. They provide excellent antioxidant properties to slow the signs of ageing and promote cell regeneration. More specifically, Lavender Oil  is considered a good remedy for wounds, burns and bites due to antifungal properties and also helpful for UV protection. It’s even thought to have wrinkle diminishing capability. Apart from their invigorating and refreshing citrus scent, Lime Oil and May Chang Essential Oil exhibit antiseptic and antifungal properties to help prevent wound infection and relieve skin problems such as acne, sores, rashes and psoriasis. Astringent properties revitalize skin radiance. May Chang is also recognized for its ability to promote physical relaxation and mental calm. Used topically, the antibacterial properties of Spearmint Oil help to eliminate bacteria on the skin while anti-inflammatory effects soothe reddened, itchy skin.

Other ingredients support emulsification, texture and preservative functions.
 

the ingredients

Aloe Vera Leaf Juice, *Camelia Oil, Glyceryl Stearate Citrate, *Seaweed Extract, *Glycerine, *Jojoba Australian Oil, Cetearyl Alcohol, *Shea Butter, Glyceryl Caprylate/Glyceryl Undecylenate, *Coconut Oil, *Green Tea Extract, *Pomegranate Extract, Stearic Acid, *Cocoa Butter, *Kakadu Plum Extract, Acacia Senegal Gum/Xanthan Gum, Vitamin B5 (Panthenol), Lavender Essential Oil, p-Anisic Acid, Citric Acid, Lime Essential Oil, May Chang Essential Oil, Spearmint Essential Oil, Vitamin E (Natural)

* Denotes Certified Organic
 
Akuka Seaweed Body Moisturiser Ingredients
 

the packaging

The Akuka Seaweed Body Moisturiser comes in a plastic bottle with screw top lid and lockable pump applicator.
 
Akuka Seaweed Body Moisturiser Packaging
 

the analysis

Clean reports result from passing the Akuka Seaweed Body Moisturiser ingredients through both the CosDNA and EWG databases with a low to moderate EWG flag raised against the presence of lime essential oil due to its potential to sensitize.
 
Akuka Seaweed Body Moisturiser CosDNA Analysis
 

the application

Blend into the skin over the entire body twice daily for maximum hydrating and beautifying benefits.
 

the scent

There is a clear citrus smell associated with this product.
 

the cost

The 125ml bottle of Akuka Seaweed Body Moisturiser costs AUD$26.00 reduced by 15% to AUD$22.10 with (non-affiliate) discount code CLAYANDESSENCE.
 

the availability

The cream is available from the Akuka Skincare website. Free shipping for Australian orders over AUD$49.50.
 

the expiry

The product has a 12 month shelf life and expires 6 months after opening.
 
Akuka Seaweed Body Moisturiser Expiry
 

the performance

The Akuka Seaweed Body Moisturiser is presented in a typical plastic bottle featuring a pump action dispenser with a twist close. The dark brown tint provides protection from product degradation due to excessive light exposure and the lock action helps prevent unintentional flow and makes it more travel friendly. It is sleek and attractive. The cream has a dense texture, more viscous than a lotion. It spreads well and absorbs quickly leaving the skin feeling refreshed and instantly nourished without any sense of residue. There is no greasiness, oiliness or tackiness, skin instead feeling soft and dewy and looking matte and supple.
 
Akuka Seaweed Body Moisturiser Texture
If you have read previous reviews, you know I am not a fan of additives in skin care included purely to enhance the smell of a product. However, I love essential oils in body products where skin is less delicate. This moisturiser achieves the most beautiful and invigorating citrus scent which in turn acts as a relaxant. These oils also contribute positively to benefit the skin so have been cleverly selected. The citrus scent (likely due to the lime and May Chang essential oils) is wonderful, combining effectively with a hint of lavender. It starts off quite strong but settles after absorption and eventually dissipates.

One thing I love about a product such as this, is the water free formula. Where many creams use water at the highest concentration, this one relies on the superstar properties of aloe vera leaf juice as a base which assures a superb depth to the product. I’ve raved about aloe before. There’s not much it can’t do. In this instance, it certainly delivers on hydration, repair and soothing.

I use around 5-6 pumps for full body coverage. In testing, I applied the cream initially to only the left half of my body and compared the difference periodically. As early as the next morning, I observed the moisturised skin was softer and more supple than the side that was neglected. This became even more obvious after a few days. Furthermore, the effects lasted between applications.

Using this cream, I also experience texture enhancement. The shea and cocoa butters certainly contributed to a sensation of softness but the skin also became more smooth. As there are no exfoliating agents in the formula, I have to conclude that this is likely due to improved hydration and plumping. There’s also potential for skin tightening contributed by the seaweed and the anti-ageing effects of a great number of antioxidants, although these types of benefits are much slower to present themselves, if at all. For the record, I didn’t make any such observations after finishing the entire bottle.
 
Akuka Seaweed Body Moisturiser
The only thing I don’t like about this product is the volume. A cream as lovely as this needs to be lavishly applied all over rather than savoured to make it last longer. I would prefer something around 300ml for everyday use, particularly when directions advise using it twice daily. It would be great to see a larger volume option although the 125ml bottle is perfect for travel and a great introduction for those that want to try it before investing in something bigger.
 

the conclusion

There is a real feeling of luxury applying this cream after a shower. The indulgence that is the Akuka Seaweed Body Moisturiser reminds your body that it’s just as important as your face. Unless you are particularly sensitive to any of the essential oils in the formulation, you need to try this!
 

the summary

Pros Cons
Lasting moisturisation Small volume
Easily absorbed without any residue Only available online
Gentle, natural formulation Essential oils may be sensitizing to some
Invigorating unisex citrus/lavender scent
Softens and smooths skin
100% Australian made and owned

 
Akuka Seaweed Body Moisturiser
 

the references

Akuka website
Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice RG-Cell Cosmeceuticals
Why Silkia camellia oil is better for your skin Goldport Beauty
Organic Camellia Facial Oil Reviews Beauty Heaven
Ingredient Spotlight: Seaweed Extract Vine Vera Cosmetics
Shea Butter for Your Face Kathryn Watson
Is coconut oil right for skin right for your complexion? Natalie Lukaitis
The Amazing Skin Benefits of Kakadu Plum Alle Connell
5 Science-Backed Health Benefits Of Lavender Oil For The Skin And Hair CureJoy Editorial
7 Lovely Benefits of Lime Essential Oil BioFinest
May Chang (Litsea cubeba) Essential Oil Base Formula, Well Being Inspired By Nature
All About Spearmint Oil New Directions Aromatics
p-Anisic Acid True Natural Group

 


the disclaimer

Please read in context with my disclaimer.
 
This product was provided to me free of charge by Akuka Skincare for review. This post only includes my honest opinion and experience of this product and is in no way influenced by Akuka Skincare, any of its representatives or any other third party.
 


 

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