CLAY+essence
Cosrx,  face

Cosrx Propolis Light Cream

the claim

The Cosrx Propolis Light Cream claims to be a moisturising cream boasting a high percentage of black bee propolis complex and antioxidants for a plump, soft and glowing complexion.
 
Cosrx Propolis Light Cream
 

the science

The hero of this cream is 65% Full Fit Pro-Barrier Complex, a combination of Propolis, Honey and Royal Jelly Extracts. Excellent for the skin, the combination is rich in flavonoids and displays powerful antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties. Its high antioxidant content assists to keep free radicals from causing cell damage. The complex works to regenerate and moisturize skin, helping make it smooth, supple and hydrated. An ability to balance skin oils helps to prevent blemishes.
 
Sunflower Seed Oil is a well absorbed, lightweight oil without residue that’s rich in linoleic acid and Vitamin E. Essential fatty acids help to maintain the skin barrier and decrease transepidermal water loss, keeping skin supple and soft. Its emollient nature ensures smoother more hydrated skin for longer. Antioxidants provide anti-ageing advantages and caretenoids make it a good acne treatment. Cassia Obtusifolia Seed Extract provides similar benefits.
 
Defending against moisture loss and providing replenishing and restorative benefits are Allantoin, Fatty Acids and Fatty Alcohols. These are complemented by humectants, water gatherers including Glycerin, Beeswax and Butylene Glycol, the latter also helping to increase the absorption of other ingredients and hence boost their effectiveness. Arginine is an amino acid, a primary building block of hair keratin and skin collagen. A natural moisturizing factor and hydrator, it may also help to accelerate healing.
 

the ingredients

Propolis Extract, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, 1,2-Hexanediol, Honey Extract, Royal Jelly Extract, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Cassia Obtusifolia Seed Extract, Cetearyl Olivate, Beeswax, Cetearyl Alcohol, Sorbitan Olivate, Allantoin, Arginine, Carbomer, Xanthan Gum
 
Cosrx Propolis Light Cream Ingredients
 

the packaging

The Cosrx Propolis Light Cream is presented in a plastic tube with protective inner cap and screw top lid. It doesn’t include a spatula but this is not a problem for me as I have a heap from other products.
 
Cosrx Propolis Light Cream Packaging
 

the analysis

An ideal assessment is returned from CosDNA, rating the Cosrx Propolis Light Cream an ideal low hazard with no red flags.
 
Cosrx Propolis Light Cream CosDNA Analysis
 

the application

Apply an appropriate amount of the cream to face, avoiding the eye and mouth at the last step of the skincare routine. Tap gently to help absorption.
 

the scent

There is a very slight medicinal scent associated with this cream that is barely noticeable in application.
 

the cost

The cream costs around AUD$59.00 for a 65ml jar (correct at time of publication). It’s worth shopping around.
 

the availability

Cosrx products are available at Korean skincare boutiques including Style Korean, Yes Style and Wishtrend.
 

the expiry

The cream has a three year shelf life and must be used within 12 months of opening.
 
Cosrx Propolis Light Cream
 

the performance

The Cosrx Propolis Light Cream is presented in a stylish and sturdy, yellow tinted plastic jar. Although it isn’t the most hygienic packaging solution, the wide opening an invitation to dispense with the fingers leaving it open to contaminants, it’s sufficiently preserved such that it remains bacteria free throughout use. For the record, I used this up in three months, applying it once or twice daily. A pump applicator would have been a better choice to keep the cream free of contaminants and to permit clean dispensing. The oversized jar fits 65ml as opposed to more typical volumes of 50ml for like products.
 
The formula is elegant and safe, getting an all-green tick of approval from CosDNA, ensuring it’s gentle enough for all skin types to enjoy. It applies well when combined with a facial oil at night and doesn’t interfere with sunscreen application during the day either. No pilling, no heaviness and no residue.
 
Although the cream is lightweight with a gel-like texture, it has a medium density with easy slip but not the totally effortless kind that you might expect from a typical gel. The cream-gel texture balance is perfect. In fact, it looks more like a glossy cream than a gel. There is a slight medicinal scent to the fragrance free formula which I barely notice. It certainly dissipates upon absorption which happens quickly on dry skin.
 
The finish is clean and comfortable without any sign of stickiness, oiliness or tackiness. It forms a very slight seal on the skin which helps to prevent trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL). As such, it makes a beautiful base for makeup too. So, apart from the packaging not being the most hygienic choice, there’s nothing I would fault about the way this cream is formulated or applied.
 
Cosrx Propolis Light Cream Texture
I’ve been using it during winter-spring which has been pretty cool this year and I’ve been frequently exposed to the dryness associated with heating. During the day, this is more than adequate as I top it up with sunscreen a couple of times, typically one that also enhances moisture. However, even if I spend the day indoors and don’t use sunscreen at all, my skin still feels hydrated and plump between applications without any need for replenishment. During my PM routine, I tend to couple it with some sort of oil which delivers similar results throughout the night. This pairing wouldn’t be necessary in warmer weather and nor do I anticipate it would be required for oilier skin types. Note, mine is generally normal with a tendency for a slightly oily T-zone which has been nicely balanced. The full fit pro-barrier complex assures a healthy complexion and glow. I generally don’t suffer blemishes or redness but I anticipate it would also have a healing effect on these skin problems. Indeed, I have read reviews that attest to such benefits.
 
Given the gentle formula, enjoyable texture and application plus its ability to keep skin plump and fresh, I suggest this is a universally suitable product, especially good for those with compromised or blemish prone skin. Those with very dry or dehydrated skin might find it a little light in harsh winter conditions and may wish to add a hydrating or oil serum to help the skin stay supple.
 

 

the conclusion

The Cosrx Propolis Light Cream is a beautiful product and one I have thoroughly enjoyed incorporating into both day and night routines. It has given my skin balance and a healthy, supple glow. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this one to anyone looking for a gentle, safe, effective cream.
 

the summary

Pros Cons
Safe formulation Only available online for Australians
Gentle, all green CosDNA assessment
Fragrance free, cruelty free
Beautiful texture without uncomfortable residue
Delivers excellent moisture
Keeps skin balanced, healthy and glowing
Suitable for all skin types

 

the references

The Little-Known Ingredient Korean Women Use to Fight Acne Alicia Yoon
Arginine INCI Decoder

 


the disclaimer

Please read in context with my disclaimer.
 


 

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