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Skinfood Egg White Pore Mask
the claim The Skinfood Egg White Pore Mask claims to be a pore-refining mask with egg white extract that penetrates deeply into pores to remove pore-clogging oil. the science Egg white masks are thought to be effective in treating a number of skin problems due to high protein content which can yield improvements in skin tone, elasticity and in turn the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Egg whites have astringent properties that help shrink pores by tightening the skin and thus naturally pushing out any build up in the pore itself which can lead to blackheads. However, cosmetic chemist Randy Schueller isn’t convinced of egg white’s…
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Lush Mask of Magnaminty
the claim The Lush Mask of Magnaminty claims to be a multi-purpose mask designed to deliver a refreshing, deep cleanse and help to maintain bright and healthy skin. the science Lush stresses their Zambian Honey is fairly traded and sourced from wild bees using traditional methods. Due to its strong antimicrobial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties, honey is able to cleanse and protect skin and also contributes natural preservative function to the mask. As a humectant, it draws and retains moisture for increased skin hydration and suppleness. Kaolin is present at the next highest concentration. Kaolin helps to cleanse and exfoliate by absorbing excess oil, particularly effective for acne-prone…
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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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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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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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I’m From Ginseng Mask
the claim The I’m from Ginseng Mask claims to detoxify skin, improve elasticity and hydration and offer anti-ageing benefits. It’s target consumers are those with maturing, dry or problem skin. the science Red Ginseng is an ingredient that has been used medicinally for centuries. Ginseng contains antioxidants that accelerate cell regeneration. It also improves blood circulation thus allowing the skin to look brighter. It has a proven effectiveness in fighting wrinkles by boosting skin-firming collagen whilst its detoxifying properties boost our immune response. Clearly, ginseng is the key ingredient in this product, as the name suggests. Licorice Root Extract has soothing qualities for sensitive skin, packed with antibacterial…
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Petitfee Black Pearl & Gold Hydrogel Eye Patch
the claim Petitfee Black Pearl & Gold Hydrogel Eye Patches claim to pamper and relax your under eyes providing an intensely hydrating infusion of moisture plus vital nutrients. They compare the experience and results to that achieved from a professional spa treatment. the science Included within the formula of these hydrogel patches are several plant extracts whose general benefits incorporate anti-ageing, soothing and protection properties. Natural plant extracts have a proven ability to improve both skin and overall health. More specifically, they provide the following qualities: The extract from the bamboo plant, Bambusa Textilis Stem Extract, can sooth skin and diminish uneven skin tone. Grapefruit Seed Extract, rich in…
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Just Neem Clay Mask
the claim Just Neem claims the Neem Clay Mask will actively sooth, purify and hydrate skin. It combines deep cleansing French Green Clay, powerful West African Neem and therapeutic essential oils providing an eye-opening facial treatment ideal for all skin types and great for strengthening even sensitive skin. the science Just Neem is a US based company. Their website states they produce skincare products using the finest cosmetic grade raw materials, all boasting naturally grown Neem to sustain healthy skin and soothe irritated skin. The Neem Clay Mask is made from all natural ingredients including French green clay which draws out impurities and toxins through its highly absorbent…
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Swisse Manuka Honey Mask
the claim The Swisse Manuka Honey Detoxifying Facial Mask claims to deeply cleanse and hydrate skin, particularly that prone to blemish and congestion. the science The ingredient list in this mask is a who’s who of skincare buzz words. Rich in naturally occurring substances, it of course boasts manuka honey, charcoal and kaolin as stated on the label. Manuka honey is a natural humectant which helps to draw moisture to the skin and keep it at a balanced pH. Manuka honey’s powerful antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties promote healing, seeing it equally suited to medicinal application as to skin care. It helps in the fight against ageing, promoting…
