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Sulwhasoo Clarifying Mask Ex
the claim The Sulwhasoo Clarifying Mask Ex claims to clear, calm and reinvigorate skin, giving it a soft radiance, leaving it clear and translucent. the science In order to deliver skin “translucency”, there are several lightening, protective and brightening actives in the formulation. Polygonatum Officinale Rhizome/Root Extract is also known as Solomon’s Seal and is one of the key actives of this mask. It is a powerful clarifying agent, useful for the treatment of acne and effective at reducing redness and dark spots. Panax Ginseng Root Extract is packed with phytonutrients and antioxidants which defend against UV and environmental stress and stimulate cell regeneration. By improving blood circulation,…
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Andalou Naturals Rosewater Mask
the claim The Andalou Naturals Rosewater Mask claims to be a revitalizing mask with alpine rose stem cells which delivers essential hydration and dermal vitality to soothe and nourish sensitive skin. Pomegranate uplifts tone while hyaluronic acid and aloe vera help revive skin’s moisture barrier for a flawless looking complexion. the science PhytoCellTec™ is the name of a relatively new biotechnology that researchers from Mibelle Biochemistry have used to generate and cultivate plant stem cells. This enables cosmetics companies such as Andalou Naturals to include exclusive, often rare and near extinct plants that contain especially valuable ingredients in their formulations since only a minute amount of plant material is…
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Timeless Matrixyl Synthe’6 Serum
the claim The Timeless Matrixyl Synthe’6 serum claims to be a powerful peptide that boosts six skin-rebuilding, anti-wrinkle essentials to help reverse the signs of aging. It achieves this by stimulating six major constituents of the skin matrix and dermal-epidermal junction. In doing so, it is said to even out skin and smooth wrinkles from the inside. the science In keeping with the Timeless philosophy, the Matrixyl® Synthe’6® serum delivers more actives and less chemicals comprising only 7 ingredients. The key active is of course Matrixyl® Synthe’6®, manufactured by Sederma laboratories. It regulates cell activity, wound repair and collagen tissue remodeling and is included at the recommended concentration of…
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nu’trir Nourishing Cleansing Oil
the claim The nu’trir Nourishing Cleansing Oil claims to be a botanical and antioxidant rich oil based cleanser that removes makeup, impurities and dead skin cells leaving skin feeling hydrated and nourished. It aids cell renewal with gentle exfoliation and provides anti-ageing properties with an antioxidant rich formulation. the science A good oil cleanser removes makeup, sunscreen, impurities and general dirt from the face as a first step of the evening routine. This one from nu’trir incorporates many natural oils and extracts in order to achieve this. The one present at the highest concentration is Willow Bark Extract, a source of salicylic acid, a natural exfoliator able to…
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Skinfood Black Sugar Mask
the claim The Skinfood Black Sugar Mask claims to contain mineral-enriched Brazilian black sugar for excellent keratin improvement, promoting smooth, glowing skin. the science Not surprisingly, the highest concentration of the mask formulation comprises Sucrose, a natural sugar. Sucrose effectively and naturally delivers both a physcial and chemical exfoliation to the skin. A glycolic acid source (alpha hydroxy acid), it penetrates the skin to encourage cell turnover whilst it’s grainy physical texture also makes it an excellent topical exfoliant, both assisting to achieve a fresher, younger looking complexion. As a humectant, sucrose attracts and retains moisture helping to keep skin hydrated, complementing the abrasive nature of the resurfacing…
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ByWishtrend Green Tea & Enzyme Powder Wash
the claim The ByWishtrend Green Tea & Enzyme Powder Wash claims to be a pH balancing, gently exfoliating cleansing powder formulated with green tea, papain enzymes and baking soda, suitable for all skin types. the science Green tea and papain are the highlighted actives in this product. Scientific studies have demonstrated that due to its antioxidant and anti-carcinogenic effects, ingesting Camellia Sinensis Leaf (green tea) helps prevent the formulation of cancerous tumors. There isn’t quite so much research regarding its topical use, however, skin experts generally recommend it because of its powerful antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-ageing properties. The catechins in green tea, especially Epigallocatechin (EGCG), help to reduce inflammation,…
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Goodal Keratina Anti-Aging Double Toner
the claim The Goodal Keratina Anti-Aging Double Toner claims to make the face look bright and resilient by gently exfoliating dead skin cells from the outermost layer whilst also providing an optimal skin base. Rich in anti-oxidants and Vitamin C, wild strawberry helps achieve a bright complexion. The fast-absorbing moisture formula prevents the skin from drying up and enhances the absorption of skincare products. the science Keratin is a structural protein produced by cells called keratinocytes. Keratin promotes firmness by forming a protective layer to retain skin health. The objective of this toner is to reinforce, gently exfoliate and nourish this outermost layer to deliver anti-ageing effects by…
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Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask
the claim The Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask (Berry) claims to be a leave-on lip mask that soothes and moisturizes for smoother, more supple lips. the science The ingredient list in this formulation looks extensive, but if you investigate closer, you will note that there are several alternative names for the same ingredient provided. There are many moisturising and hydrating components. Diisostearyl Malate is present at the highest concentration and is simply a skin conditioning agent and emollient predominantly used in lip products. Hydrogenated Polyisobutene is included for its ability to reinforce the skin barrier to reduce moisture loss, rather than to actually deliver hydration whereas Dimethicone helps form a…
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Nature Republic Aloe Vera Foam Cleanser
the claim Nature Republic Aloe Vera Foam Cleanser removes impurities from your skin with its creamy foam, which contains aloe vera extract. the science As with many skincare products, Glycerin’s humectant properties see it listed second in this formulation following water. It moisturises the skin by drawing water from the air into the skin’s surface, simultaneously creating a protective layer to prevent moisture loss. Aloe Vera Leaf Extract can soothe skin and serves as an anti-inflammatory as well as acting as a moisturiser. Full of antibacterial and anti-inflammatory capabilities, Lauric acid is derived from coconut and used for its skin repairing, anti-acne and cleansing properties. Myristic Acid, Stearic…
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Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Face Sunscreen SPF 50+
the claim Neutrogena claims that its Ultra Sheer Face SPF50+ Sunscreen Liquid-Lotion provides very high sun protection stabilised with HELIOPLEX® technology. It provides balanced broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection against skin-aging UVA and burning UVB rays in a water light formula. This lightweight liquid lotion is oil free, PABA-Free and non-comedogenic leaving your face free from that thick and greasy sunscreen feeling leaving a weightless, matte finish so skin can breathe. the science The Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Face SPF50+ Sunscreen Liquid-Lotion is what we call a chemical sunscreen. Chemical sunscreens allow harmful UV rays to absorb the skin but transform them into harmless light or heat wavelengths. For a refresher on…
