CLAY+essence
  • Timeless Dark Circle Eye Cream
    eye,  Timeless

    Timeless Dark Circle Eye Cream

    the claim The Timeless Dark Circle Eye Cream claims to be a light, non-oily, fragrance free eye cream that will lighten dark circles and bags under the eyes.     the science The hero ingredients in this formulation are Eyeliss, Haloxyl and Hyaluronic Acid.   The combination of Hesperidin Methyl Chalcone (a flavenoid which strengthens capillaries), Steareth-20  (a stabilizer), Dipeptide-2  (improves lymphatic drainage so that under eye bags are diminished) and Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7  (an antioxidant and together with Palmitoyl Oligopeptide forms Matrixyl 3000) is referred to as Eyeliss, manufactured by French company Sederma. It is included at a concentration of 3% to prevent puffiness and reduces bags under the eyes.…

  • Pyunkang Yul Cleansing Foam
    Pyunkang Yul,  second cleanse

    Pyunkang Yul Cleansing Foam

    the claim The Pyunkang Yul Cleansing Foam is said to be a vacuum cleanser for the pores. The dense but gentle foam adheres strongly to waste and sebum to lift and remove for clean skin without drying.     the science The star active ingredient in Pyunkang Yul Cleansing Foam is Siler Root Extract which has been used traditionally for centuries in Chinese herbal medicine. Its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties deliver healing effects so it has been useful for treating contact dermatitis and allergic skin reactions. It also helps to control oil production. Next in concentration is Glycerin. Together with Beeswax, they deliver much required humectant properties to ensure the…

  • Klairs Supple Preparation Toners
    hydrating toner,  Klairs

    Klairs Supple Preparation Toners

    the claim Both the Original and the Unscented Klairs Supple Preparation Toners are said to be lightweight and designed to restore skin moisture and pH level after cleansing. With the aid of plant extracts, hyaluronic acid and beta-glucan, they keep skin calm, hydrated and soothed. Recommended for normal, dry, combination and sensitive skin types.     the science Following water, Butylene Glycol  is found in the formulation at the highest concentration. Its ability to improve the penetration and hence increase the effectiveness of the ingredients that follow is its main strength. It also has humectant properties, drawing moisture from the atmosphere for a hydration boost. Also referred to as Methylsulfonylmethane…

  • Thank You Farmer Miracle Age Repair Toner
    hydrating toner,  Thank You Farmer

    Thank You Farmer Miracle Age Repair Toner

    the claim The Thank You Farmer Miracle Age Repair Toner claims to be a smooth, rich milky toner that combines the function of toner, serum and emulsion in one product. It boasts a concentrated texture for rich moisture and nourishment to bring radiance to rough, lifeless skin.     the science Labelled as a brightening and anti-wrinkle treatment, there are certainly ingredients that bring these properties to the toner. None more so than Niacinamide (Vitamin B3). According to dermatologist Dr Sam Bunting, niacinamide boosts barrier function by increasing ceramide production. This improves water-retention, protects against environmental stressors and results in better overall skin structure. Anti-inflammatory properties make it effective against…

  • Innisfree Black Green-Tea Mask
    Innisfree,  mask,  wash off

    Innisfree Black Green-Tea Mask

    the claim The Innisfree Black Green-Tea Mask is made from 55% fermented fresh Jeju green tea leaves to deliver a strong antioxidant effect to nourish the skin for a clear complexion. It provides skin with cooling and soothing effects as well as removing excess dead cells for clean and soft skin.     the science This mask comprises 55% pesticide and chemical free Jeju green tea that has been fermented and matured for 100 days in two stages for maximum skin benefit. Green Tea Extract  is a potent antioxidant source that helps to protect skin from free radical damage, reduce inflammation, clear cell damage and help to repair wrinkles. When…

  • Pyunkang Yul Moisture Cream
    moisturize,  Pyunkang Yul

    Pyunkang Yul Moisture Cream

    the claim The Pyunkang Yul Moisture Cream is a powerfully effective daily moisturizer for all skin types, especially those with sensitive, acne-prone or oily skin. Formulated with safe and gentle ingredients free of fragrance and artificial dyes, it goes on smoothly, absorbs easily, providing a soft and supple finish without feeling greasy or sticky.     the science Once again delivering a product with a non-diluted formulation containing more actives, Pyunkang Yul Moisture Cream is concentrated with their trademark star ingredient, Coptis Japonica Root Extract, also known as Goldthread. It is an Asian herb cultivated to answer medicinal needs and often used to treat skin disorders. Goldthread is high in…

  • Trilogy Replenishing Night Cream
    moisturize,  Trilogy

    Trilogy Replenishing Night Cream

    the claim The Trilogy Replenishing Night Cream is an easily absorbed night time moisturiser, serving to nourish and repair during sleep. A nourishing blend of bio-actives, it uses co-enzyme Q10 and Glycablend™ which assist the skin’s natural process of regeneration to restore elasticity, suppleness and smooth fine lines and wrinkles.     the science Blueberry, Pomegranate and Strawberry Seed Oils are anti-ageing powerhouses. Abundant in antioxidants, they are a force against environmental stressors, helping to protect and keep skin youthful. Essential fatty acids diminish the appearance of wrinkles and provide a firmer and plumper looking complexion. They are light, non-greasy, fast absorbing and moisturising, suitable for all skin types. Together,…

  • Honey Image © Livestrong.com
    ingredient spotlight,  routine

    Manuka Honey – Ingredient Focus

    the hype Manuka Honey seems to be the golden elixir in skincare these days. It is sourced from the flowering plant species of Leptospermum, native to Australia and New Zealand. The resultant honey is richer than regular honey in every way: the colour is darker; the flavour more distinct; the texture thicker; health benefits significantly magnified and the cost much higher. It is estimated that the Australian and New Zealand manuka honey export market is worth over $300 million.   the benefits Much research has gone into proving the health and skin care benefits of Manuka honey. Its antibacterial, antimicrobial, antiviral and antioxidant strengths are beyond question. It is also…

  • Pyunkang Yul Moisture Serum
    Pyunkang Yul,  serum

    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…

  • 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…