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So Simple Plump + Hydrate
the claim The So Simple Plump + Hydrate claims to be a lightweight face serum that regenerates, protects and rejuvenates whilst firming and lifting the skin. It has a delicate floral scent, feels great and isn’t insane money. the science Free of water and having a pH of 5.6, Cornflower Hydrosol forms the ideal base of the formulation. Derived from dried cornflower petals which are steam distilled, it contributes a slight flowery aroma to the serum and delivers a host of benefits. Astringent properties assist to reduce the appearance of pores and better control excess facial oils. Anti-ageing is realised through the promotion of cell regeneration, collagen production…
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Jeffrey James Botanicals The Light
the claim The Jeffrey James Botanicals The Light claims to accelerate the skin’s natural repair process and fight ageing for a fresh and radiant appearance. the science Represented at the highest concentration is an ingredient called Organic Herbal Blend. It is not surprising that the EWG database raises a flag against it since the nature of the blend is not declared. After all, some herbs shouldn’t go near your face. The unknown factor makes it impossible to decipher. Update: After contacting Jeffery James Botanicals, the herbal blend was disclosed and is discussed in detail in the review of The Mask. So moving on to the ones we can…
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Pyunkang Yul Moisture Ampoule
the claim The Pyunkang Yul Moisture Ampoule claims to be a high-potency moisture booster that calms, smooths and destresses skin for a glowing complexion. the science In a sophisticated and innovative product comprising a waterless formula of only 6 ingredients, Coptis Japonica Root Extract, also known as Japanese Goldthread, is present at a concentration of 91% and is the only active in the Pyunkang Yul Moisture Ampoule. High in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, Japanese Goldthread exhibits soothing effects to the skin which is why it is often cultivated for medicinal purposes and used to treat skin disorders. It has a cooling sensation that helps to decrease skin temperature…
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Paula’s Choice Resist Omega+ Complex
the claim The Paula’s Choice Resist Omega+ Complex is said to be a superfood for your skin. Concentrated levels of omega fatty acids strengthen the skin’s surface with the essential nutrients needed for healthy, hydrated and visibly stronger skin. Furthermore, the product claims to replenish dull, dehydrated skin, revive a beautifully smooth, supple feeling, plus visibly soften the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. the science Starting with the hero ingredients, omega fatty acids are represented strongly in the formulation. There are 11 omega fatty acids, the most vital being 3,6 (both essential) and 9 (able to be produced naturally by the body). Fatty acids are the building…
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Pyunkang Yul Moisture Serum
the claim The Pyunkang Yul Moisture Serum aims to deliver the optimum moisture/oil balance for a healthy complexion and calming/cooling effect whilst also providing deep hydration. the science Staying true to their belief that less is more, the moisture serum by Pyunkang Yul includes a minimum of gentle ingredients, free of fillers, fragrance/colour additives and texture enhancers for maximum effect. The hero ingredient of the serum is Coptis Japonica Root Extract, an Asian herb usually cultivated for medicinal purposes. It displays antioxidant and anti-inflammatory behaviours and has proven successful for treating skin disorders. This is combined with Olive Oil which offers deep hydration to the skin and…
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Dr. Ceuracle Vita-Propolis Ampoule
the claim Rebranded from Leegeehaam and Lee Jiham, the Dr. Ceuracle Vita Propolis Ampoule claims to be the perfect combination of vitamin and propolis for bright, glowing and radiant skin with powerful ingredients delivering moisturisation, firming, soothing and anti-ageing effects. the science Propolis Extract is basically a combination of beeswax, enzymes and tree sap used by bees to seal, disinfect and waterproof their hive. Coincidentally, it also makes an excellent skincare ingredient, found at a high concentration of 50% in this ampoule. It has been used medicinally to help heal wounds for centuries. Rich in flavonoids, propolis displays powerful antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties. Its high antioxidant content…
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Goodal Waterest Lasting Water Oil
the claim The Goodal Waterest Lasting Water Oil is a moisturizing oil that fills skin inside and out with moisture. A new-concept moisturizing oil that deeply hydrates skin all day long for 24 hours. Also contributes brightening and wrinkle care. the science Being a water oil, it’s not surprising that water is the ingredient found at the highest concentration. Next, one of the best represented actives is Niacinamide, a well tolerated form of Vitamin B3 which offers several skincare advantages. It strengthens cellular bonds, stimulates collagen and tightens the outer skin layer for both a firming effect and to discourage acne formation. Additionally, it’s an excellent hydrator exhibiting…
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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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Fresh Face Skin Overnight Reverser
the claim Fresh Face Skin claim that their Overnight Reverser treatment is a one-step evening application that will lighten uneven skin tone, hydrate, increase skin moisture levels, speed up cell turnover, increase collagen and elastin production whilst also boosting skin’s antioxidant levels. The result, plump, smooth, fresh face glow. the science The claims of this treatment are broad and optimistic, so let’s consider whether the ingredients exhibit the behaviours required to fulfil them. Starting with the highest concentrations, water is followed by sweet almond seed oil which is rich in Vitamin E, monounsaturated fatty acids, proteins, potassium and zinc. The sweet variety comes from edible almonds and is a…
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Missha Time Revolution Night Repair Ampoule
the claim The Time Revolution Night Repair Science Activator Borabit Ampoule by Missha claims to help create flawless skin by promoting skin’s natural powers of improvement whilst also brightening and incorporating anti-ageing benefits of wrinkle repair and increased elasticity. the science The key to this serum is the presence of its powerful fermented ingredients. At a basic level, fermentation is the process of biologically enhancing ingredients to improve their nutritional value. This is done by breaking down the molecular structure of the active ingredients into smaller particles for better reception and deeper absorption into the skin. The process also creates antioxidants (anti-ageing), peptides and amino acids (cell renewal).…
