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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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Nature Republic Aloe Vera Foam Cleanser
the claim Nature Republic Aloe Vera Foam Cleanser removes impurities from your skin with its creamy foam, which contains aloe vera extract. the science As with many skincare products, Glycerin’s humectant properties see it listed second in this formulation following water. It moisturises the skin by drawing water from the air into the skin’s surface, simultaneously creating a protective layer to prevent moisture loss. Aloe Vera Leaf Extract can soothe skin and serves as an anti-inflammatory as well as acting as a moisturiser. Full of antibacterial and anti-inflammatory capabilities, Lauric acid is derived from coconut and used for its skin repairing, anti-acne and cleansing properties. Myristic Acid, Stearic…
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Thank You Farmer True Water Light Gel Cream
the claim The True Water Light Gel Cream from Thank You Farmer claims to provide a thin protective barrier over the skin that is light, fresh, non-sticky and provides long lasting moisture. It is said to be ideal for combination and acne-prone skin. the science Hydration is of course vital in a moisturiser. After water, Glycerin and Cyclopentasiloxane are present at the highest concentration in the formula. Glycerin is a very common ingredient appearing frequently in creams due to its humectant and emollient properties. These allow it to attract and seal in moisture, thus boosting skin hydration whilst also making skin soft and supple. Cyclopentasiloxane is a synthetically…
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Innisfree Perfect 9 Repair Eye Cream
the claim The Innisfree Perfect 9 Repair Eye Cream claims to be a complete anti-ageing eye solution. It contains 9 active ingredients from the Jeju Island elixir complex™ to firm and brighten skin and also combat the symptoms of ageing: dryness, wrinkles, flakiness, darkening, blemishes, enlarged pores and reduced elasticity. the science This concentrated eye cream contains 9 active ingredients from the Jeju Island elixir complex™ said to tighten and brighten the sensitive skin around the eyes. Innisfree fails to identify which 9 extracts are sourced from Korea’s Jeju Island and since I am not familiar with the region’s natural resources, I will simply review this as any…
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Pyunkang Yul Essence Toner
the claim The Pyunkang Yul Essence Toner claims to nurture, hydrate, soothe and revitalise dull skin. the science Another offering from the renowned Pyunkang Oriental Medicine Clinic in Seoul, Pyunkang Yul, this essence toner follows the principles of minimal ingredients for maximum concentrated benefits. The key active in the formula is present at a huge concentration of 91.3%. Astragalus Membranaceus (Milk Vecht) Root Extract has been used in eastern medicine for over 4,000 years as a tonic and an antipathogen. It is able to revitalise by improving circulation which increases blood flow to areas of topical application. This activity removes toxins caused by inflammation and allows nutrients…
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Heimish All Clean White Clay Foam
the claim The Heimish All Clean White Clay Foam claims to remove impurities from the skin and pores for a refreshing sensation. the science This is not a standard foam cleanser in that one of its key actives is Amazon White Clay (kaolin), more commonly found in a face mask due to its texture and purification properties. The other featured ingredients in the formula include Hyaluronic Acid, Coconut Oil and Citrus Oils. Kaolin is the most gentle of facial clays making it suitable for all skin types. It displays excellent absorption, allowing it to pull impurities out from the skin surface. As such, it helps to gently exfoliate…
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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…
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Innisfree Olive Real Power Cream
the claim The Innisfree Olive Real Power Cream claims to be a deep hydrating cream with Olive Power Activator ᅳ tocopherol, vitamin E, and oleic acid ᅳ that provides powerful moisturization for dry skin to improve skin suppleness and create a moisture barrier. the science Innsifree has produced an entire range of skincare products using the oil from organically grown Greek olives. Humble squalane is sometimes referred as a “facelift in a bottle” and for good reason. Squalane is comparable to the natural protective moisturiser found in skin and as such our bodies readily synthesize and absorb it without clogging pores. After 30, the amount naturally produced diminishes which…
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Klairs Midnight Blue Calming Cream
the claim The Klairs Midnight Blue Calming Cream claims to sooth extremely sensitive skin and protect it from stress and irritation by strengthening the skin barrier. the science Firstly, the unusual colour of this cream should be explored. Although it looks artificial, exhibiting a shade a cornflower blue, it’s perfectly natural. Guaiazulene, (often called azulene), one of the formula’s key ingredients, is a violet coloured, plant-based component extracted from camomile oil. The colour softens to a gentle blue after the blending process. Guaiazulene is also present due to its healing properties, able to sooth and calm skin as well as stimulate cell regeneration. In clinical studies it has exhibited…
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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).…
