Blithe Tundra Chaga Pressed Serum

The Blithe Tundra Chaga Pressed Serum is a two-in-one pressed serum fortified with almost 60% cold processed chaga mushroom extract combined with a blend of fermented oils to deliver lasting hydration while protecting against harsh climates and pollution.
 

 

Inonotus Obliquus (Mushroom) Extract (56.4%), Water, Glycerin, Diglycerin, Butylene Glycol, 1,2—Hexanediol, Triethylhexanoin, Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil, Cetearyl Alcohol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, C12-16 Alcohols, Caramel, Limnanthes Alba (Meadowfoam) Seed Oil, Acrylates/ClO-3O Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Polyacrylate—13, Pentylene Glycol, Palmitic Acid, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Caprylyl Glycol, Polyisobutene, Glyceryl Acrylate/Acrylic Acid Copolymer, Potassium Hydroxide, Triethyl Citrate, Adenosine, Polysorbate 20, Sorbitan Isostearate, Disodium EDTA, Methyldihydrojasmonate, Juniperus Mexicana (Texas Cedarwood) Oil, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil, Pelargonium Graveolens Flower Oil, Sparassis Crispa Extract, Candida Bombicola/Glucose/Methyl Rapeseedate Ferment, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil, Alteromonas Ferment Extract
 

There is a little citrus oil in the formula, but otherwise, CosDNA returns a safe formulation.
 

 

The hero of the serum is of course Chaga Mushroom Extract which is included at a dominant concentration of almost 60%. Chaga mushroom is a type of fungus that grows on birch tree bark. It has been used as a traditional medicine (powdered, brewed and ingested) for centuries, its objective to boost immunity and overall health. A powerful antioxidant source, chaga can help to ease oxidative stress and hence slow the onset of wrinkles. Together with its ability to boost collagen production, moisturise and reduce dark spots, it’s a great all-round anti-ager. This function is enhanced by known wrinkle fighter Adenosine which has the ability to restore and energize the skin surface.
 
Meadowfoam Seed Oil is a waxy oil which contains over 98% long chain fatty acids making it extremely stable and highly resistant to oxidation and heat. It helps prevent TEWL, water loss through the skin.
 
Anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties in Cedarwood Oil make it beneficial for skin conditions like acne and eczema, helping it alleviate breakouts while soothing and calming the skin. Bergamot Fruit Oil and Geranium Flower Oil complement this by assisting oil balance through toning, cleansing and antiseptic properties.
 
Popular humectants Glycerin and Diglycerin draw water to the skin while emollients that soften and trap that moisture include Olive Fruit Oil, Argan Oil, fatty alcohols plus derivatives of Coconut oil.
 

 

The serum is presented in a sturdy frosted plastic tub with screw top lid. Within, a plastic cap protects the opening and also houses a cute dispensing spatula.
 

 

Spread a pea sized amount all over the face and neck after cleansing and toning.
 

A 50ml tub of the Blithe Tundra Chaga Pressed Serum costs around USD$45.
 

This is available from several reputable Korean skincare suppliers including Style Korean and Yes Style.
 

The Blithe Tundra Chaga Pressed Serum has a 2.5 year shelf life and must be used within 12 months of opening.
 

 

The only pressed serums I’ve used in the past are by Blithe and I have to say, none have disappointed. This is one of the richer varieties without being excessively heavy so still suitable for all skin types.
 
The packaging is sleek and minimalist, on trend and consistent for this middle to high end Korean brand. The jar is frosted, made of sturdy plastic and the concealed spatula enhances hygiene by avoiding dunking your fingers into the pot. There is no added colour or fragrance although it does have a very mild and pleasant scent resulting from the inclusion of a few essential oils. It fades pretty quickly with absorption. The product resembles a cream, nothing watery about this serum. It’s glossy and stiff, holding its form easily.
 
The formula is also gentle and CosDNA approved, although I would always suggest patch testing new products before smearing them all over your face, particularly since this one contains essential oils.
 

The product spreads easily with plenty of slip, melting and sinking in quickly upon contact. It leaves the slightest of seals on the surface to aid moisture retention, barrier strength and protection from environmental factors. It’s also not sticky or tacky, so very comfortable to apply.
 
Depending on your skin needs, it could perform in any or all of essence, serum and moisturiser steps. For drier skin types or winter application, I would suggest adding cream over the top while oiler complexions may find this satisfying alone. Personally, I enjoy using it at the classic serum step but find that I don’t need any additional serums to provide the benefits of hydration. Note it’s currently winter so I find this an ideal inclusion to my routine. For warmer months and oilier skin types, I recommend the Crystal Iceplant and Velvet Yam pressed serums while extremely dry and dehydrated faces would enjoy the Gold Apricot which is balm like and the heaviest of the four varieties.
 
Regarding product claims, I definitely see a boost in moisture in my skin that pleasantly lasts between applications. Generally, skin health also appears improved, results attributed to a seemingly reinforced moisture barrier. With prolonged use, I can see my skin becoming more resilient, also benefiting from the antioxidant effects which I can’t measure or confirm in the short term. Enhanced texture is primarily indicated by plumpness and a more elastic surface.
 
Overall, this has been a real winner for my skin, providing me visible, positive results. I totally recommend it and particularly to those with normal to dry skin.
 

 

Pressed serum is both a novelty and a necessity for skincare enthusiasts. If you’re going to try one, this is a great option, although all the Blithe pressed serums are equally beautiful and made for different seasons and/or skin types. I have primarily normal to combination skin and love them all, applying each at appropriate times of the year to get maximum benefit. The Tundra Chaga variety is perfect as a winter comforter and ideal for drier skin throughout the year. Oilier complexions may choose this as a multi-tasker to replace their serum and moisturiser step.
 

Pros	Cons
Gentle on the skin	Only available online for Australians
Absorbs quickly without tackiness/stickiness	May irritate super sensitive skin types due to essential oils
Visibly improves elasticity and moisture
Strengthens skin barrier
Helps skin look bouncier and youthful

 

 

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Why Mushroom Should Be Your New Favorite Skin Care Ingredient Christina Heiser
What Are Chaga Mushrooms and Are They Healthy? Healthline
Chaga Skin Benefits – What Does Chaga Do For Your Skin? Chaga Insight
Meadowfoam Seed Oil Skin Benefits The Best Organic Skin Care
What You Need to Know About Cedarwood Essential Oil Corey Whelan
Bergamot Fruit Oil – Benefits in Skincare Florencia Beauty
Everything You Need to Know About Geranium Essential Oil Corey Whelan

 

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

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