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Benton Snail Bee Ultimate Serum
Benton,  serum

Benton Snail Bee Ultimate Serum

the claim

The Benton Snail Bee Ultimate Serum claims to be a multitasking serum which helps to nourish, soothe and keep skin supple. It is suitable for all skin types, even sensitive and an ideal choice for those looking for a protective product that will hydrate dry skin, add suppleness and vitality as well as assist with hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone.
 
Benton Snail Bee Ultimate Serum
 

the science

Dominating the formula of this serum is 70% Saccharomyces/Snail Secretion Filtrate Ferment Filtrate, an ingredient obtained by filtering snail secretion which has been fermented by yeast derived from grapes. This process increases the potency of actives since they can be better absorbed into the skin. When agitated, snails defensively excrete a thick fluid, a mucin said to aid human skin by hydrating, preventing ageing and improving wrinkles and scars.

The other highlighted component of this formula is Bee Venom, however, its concentration is significantly lower, listed towards the end of the ingredient list. When included in skincare products, Bee Venom is said to replicate the effect of being stung by a bee (without the pain). This results in an increase in blood flow that can stimulate collagen and elastin production for a plumper appearance and a perceived reduction in fine lines and wrinkles.

A fair amount of Tea Tree Leaf Water features in the serum although it does not impart its fresh camphor scent on the formulation. Due to its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antiviral and antifungal properties, it has proven an effective and soothing treatment for skin infections and acne. Its ability to remove excess oils from skin by pushing out stale sebum deep within pores can prevent blackheads and acne forming. Furthermore, natural astringent properties are also said to diminish the appearance of large pores. Able to contribute to this benefit is Niacinamide (Vitamin B3). Additionally, it helps to brighten skin by inhibiting melanin production and easing hyperpigmentation to improve uneven tone.

Aloe Vera is anti-inflammatory and packed with vitamins. It can be absorbed up to 7 layers deep. This combined with enzyme activity also helps to rejuvenate tissues, promote collagen production plus cleanse and detoxify for healthy pores and skin. A multi-benefit ingredient, it is additionally an effective humectant, proficient at water retention thus effective as a moisturising agent.

The salt form of Hyaluronic Acid is known as Sodium Hyaluronate. It helps to hydrate the skin through an ability to bind to water and fill the spaces between connective skin fibres, achieving a plumping effect.

Delivering antioxidant protection among other benefits are a whole range of additional botanical extracts, most notably Green Tea Leaf Water which boasts antibacterial catechins to also fight acne. Green tea is rich in tannins which can reduce sebum production and tighten blood vessels for a perceived reduction in puffiness. Chamaecyparis Obtusa Leaf Extract contains Phytonide which helps to cleanse and gently heal skin by fighting and protecting against blemishes. Willow Bark Extract is a Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA) and natural exfoliant and a source of Salicylic Acid. It strengthens the serum’s ability to cleanse pores and shed dead cells.

Adenosine is naturally present throughout the body. It is derived from yeast and has proven anti-wrinkle benefits due to its ability to energize the skin’s surface for a smoother and younger looking complexion. Assisting hydration and moisturisation are humectants Pentylene Glycol, Betaine and Caprylyl Glycol and moisturising agents Panthenol (provitamin B5) and Allantoin.
 
Benton Snail Bee Ultimate Serum
 

the ingredients

Saccharomyces/Snail Secretion Filtrate Ferment Filtrate, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Water, Aqua (Water), Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Water, Butylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Niacinamide, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice Powder, Sodium Hyaluronate, Chamaecyparis Obtusa Leaf Extract, Diospyros Kaki Leaf Extract, Ulmus Campestris (Elm) Bark Extract, Plantago Asiatica Extract, Laminaria Digitata Extract, Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Althaea Rosea Root Extract, Allantoin, Adenosine, Bee Venom, Beta-Glucan, Betaine, Panthenol, Citric Acid, Caprylyl Glycol, Xanthan Gum
 
Benton Snail Bee Ultimate Serum Ingredients
 

the packaging

The Benton Snail Bee Ultimate Serum is presented in brown tinted bottle with screw top dropper dispenser lid.
 
Benton Snail Bee Ultimate Serum
The opening incorporates a plastic fitted net to prevent the serum from dripping. It scrapes against the dispenser as it is lifted out of the bottle, collecting any serum on the outside of the pipette.
 
Benton Snail Bee Ultimate Serum Bottle Design
 

the analysis

An ideal assessment is returned from both the CosDNA and EWG databases, rating the serum a safe, ideal low hazard with no warning flags.
 
Benton Snail Bee Ultimate Serum CosDNA Analysis
 

the application

After cleansing and toning, use the dropper to dispense 2-3 drops of serum directly onto the face or palm then gently spread and pat until absorbed.
 
Benton Snail Bee Ultimate Serum Stretch
 

the scent

The Benton Snail Bee Ultimate Serum is fragrance free and has no detectable scent.
 

the cost

A 35ml bottle of the Benton Snail Bee Ultimate Serum costs around USD$26.00.
 

the availability

Benton products are available at Korean skincare boutiques including Style Korean and Yes Style. I received mine from directly from the brand in exchange for my honest review.
 

the expiry

The serum expires 6 months after opening and has a two year shelf life.
 
Benton Snail Bee Ultimate Serum Expiry
 

the performance

The Benton philosophy is to restore skin back to its original, healthy condition without harmful ingredients. This product definitely fulfils that objective, a pure and safe formulation verified by CosDNA and EWG resources. The gentle and light nature of this oil free serum and absence of fragrance, alcohols, PEGs and harmful chemicals makes it suitable for all skin types even sensitive. However, those allergic to bee stings or any other ingredients in the formula should be cautious and patch test first.
 
Benton Snail Bee Ultimate Serum
Presentation is aesthetically elegant and functional. The tinted bottle protects the serum from light degradation, although I never store my skincare exposed to direct sunlight. The dropper releases the perfect amount of product as each measured drop is dispensed cleanly and easily without dripping, aided by the plastic net at the neck of the bottle which collects excess serum upon extraction. Benton suggests 2-3 drops per application, however, given how lovely it is to use, I must admit, I have been a little heavy handed, using 4-5 each time to cover face and neck. Nonetheless, the 35ml volume is well priced for a concentrated serum of this quality. I used it consistently in my day and night time routines for around two weeks before posting this review. Although an agreed deadline required a quick turnaround, I found the results quite immediate, so didn’t hesitate to write up my observations.

The serum itself is near clear and typical of heavily concentrated snail secretion products, it has a silky, stretchy consistency, plenty of slip and spreads easily across the face. A little patting aids absorption, leaving no notable residue. Resembling the natural acidity of healthy skin, pH is said to be 5.5, making it mild and gentle. Skin instantly feels refreshed and soothed as it delivers a calming and nourishing effect.
 
Benton Snail Bee Ultimate Serum Texture
Although the lighting is clearly different in the following before (left) and after (right) photos of my right cheek and chin, there is a clear improvement in texture, moisture balance, clarity and tone. The images were not enhanced in any way for brightness, contrast or to achieve a favourable difference. The only edit made was to crop each to a comparable size. It was a timely test, as my skin was not looking its best at the commencement of this trial. Its condition certainly gave the Benton serum every chance to shine, and that it did.

Before photos show signs of redness, evidence of mild breakout, dullness and some dry patches. The after images clearly reflect improved hydration, fine lines under the eye appearing lessened due to increased plumpness of the skin. The skin is also more consistent in terms of pigment, tone evened out and red patches lessened if not eliminated. A few bumps and blemishes are also gone. These results confirm the product fulfilled its dual function of brightening and wrinkle repair (not reduction or removal). The skin simply looks healthier and more radiant.
 
Benton Snail Bee Ultimate Serum Results
Referring back to the product claims, the Benton Snail Bee Ultimate Serum is definitely a great option for those looking to improve skin hydration, suppleness, vitality and uneven tone. Clearly, all these improvements were observed on my combination skin in only a matter of two weeks. My face is normally far less irritated than shown in the before shots, so I expected a speedy recovery to good skin health, however, I think this serum really accelerated those results.
 

the conclusion

Stellar results and performance gains this serum a confident tick of approval. I would definitely recommend it to anyone suffering dryness, dullness, redness, uneven tone or sensitivity.
 
Benton Snail Bee Ultimate Serum
 

the summary

Pros Cons
Low hazard, safe formulation Only available online for Australians
Revitalises dull skin with radiance
Evens out tone and reduces redness
Hydrating formula leaves skin more supple
Effectively calms and soothes blemishes
Suitable for all skin types
No added fragrance, colour, parabens or alcohol

 

the references

Benton website
So THAT’S Why People Are Putting Snail Essence On Their Faces Suzy Strutner
All About Bee Venom and Honey in Skincare Lab Muffin
Tea Tree Oil webMD
Tea Tree Oil Wikipedia
The Tea Tree Skin “Miracle” – The 7 Benefits of Tea Tree Oil Body Ecology
16 Beauty Benefits of Tea Tree Essential Oil for Skin, Hair & More Beauty Munsta
Tea Tree Oil Paula’s Choice Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary
Sodium Hyaluronate Truth In Aging
Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice Radiant RG-Cell Cosmeceuticals
Why is Green Tea Good for the Skin? The YesStylist
Adenosine Paula’s Choice Skincare Dictionary
Willow Bark Extract Truth In Aging

 


 

the disclaimer

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


 

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