CLAY+essence
  • LJH Vita Propolis Ampoule
    ampoule,  Dr. Ceuracle

    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…

  • Physicians Formula Bright Booster Elixir Oil
    oil,  Physicians Formula

    Physicians Formula Bright Booster Oil Elixir

    the claim The Physicans Formula Bright Booster Oil Elixir is a lightweight, fast absorbing oil that leaves skin feeling silky, soft and never greasy. It visibly reduces the appearance of the signs of ageing and leaves skin smoother, more radiant, revived, rejuvenated and nourished instantly.     the science Camellia Seed Oil is known as the beauty secret of geishas. Cold pressed from seeds, it is rich in vitamins A, B and E, polyphenols and essential fatty acids. It is highly compatible with skin’s sebum, helping it to penetrate deep into the dermal layers without clogging pores or leaving a greasy residue. Camellia seed oil is one of the highest…

  • Sulwhasoo Clarifying Mask
    mask,  Sulwhasoo,  wash off

    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,…

  • Skin Food Black Sugar mask
    mask,  Skinfood,  wash off

    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…

  • Goodal Keratina Anti-Aging Double Toner
    acid toner,  Goodal,  hydrating toner,  tone

    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…

  • Wishtrend Mandelic Acid
    acid toner,  ByWishtrend

    ByWishtrend Mandelic Acid 5% Skin Prep Water

    the claim Mandelic Acid 5% Skin Prep Water ByWishtrend is a hydrating daily exfoliant which can be used on even sensitive skin without irritation to improve skin tone and texture whilst boosting the effectiveness of products to follow.     the science As the name suggests, Mandelic Acid is the key ingredient in this formula, second only in concentration to water. Mandelic Acid is an Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) made from the extract of bitter almonds, it’s name derived from the German word for almond, “mandel”. It delivers similar benefits as other AHAs such as glycolic and lactic acids but because it comprises larger molecules, it doesn’t penetrate the skin…

  • Pixi Glow Tonic
    acid toner,  Pixi

    Pixi Glow Tonic

    the claim The Pixi Glow Tonic claims to be a highly concentrated, invigorating facial toner that deeply cleans pores by sweeping away excess oil and impurities.     the science Other than water, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, commonly known as aloe vera, is the ingredient present at the highest concentration in the Pixi Glow Tonic formula. Aloe vera has been used medicinally in many cultures for centuries due to its excellent anti-inflammatory properties. It is able to soothe the skin when used topically, easing burns, scars and wounds whilst also protecting from UV damage. Containing multi vitamins, (A, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B12, C, E, Choline and Folic Acid),…

  • Toners
    routine,  tone

    Toners Explained

    the toner types In our teens we started to experiment with skincare. We were advised that toning was the necessary step between cleansing and moisturising. We didn’t quite understand why but it seemed essential, particularly since the routine only included three steps.   Nowadays, there are a lot more toners on the market that are designed to achieve different outcomes. We are more educated about their importance and have a greater choice from which to select. But, given this, it can also be confusing. This article explores the differences between traditional western toners, hydrating toners as commonly used in Asia and acid toners. I explain when and how to use…

  • Missha Time Revolution Night Repair Science Activator Borabit Ampoule
    ampoule,  Missha

    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).…

  • Just Neem Clay Mask
    Just Neem,  mask,  wash off

    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…