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Purito Centella Green Level Safe Sun
the claim The Purito Centella Green Level Safe Sun SPF 50+ PA++++ claims to be an all EWG Green Level (1-2) chemical sunscreen that leaves no white cast, does not irritate and is gentle around the eyes to deliver a refreshing and soft product without greasiness. Sun protection is enhanced with soothing centella extract and anti-aging tocopherol. the science Providing the bulk of the sun protection properties of the cream are high absorption, oil soluble chemical filters that enhance water resistance and also deliver excellent photostability. Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, provides UVA protection to minimise skin overexposure to ultraviolet radiation and Ethylhexyl Triazone is an UVB filter which…
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JKosmmune Serum
the claim The JKosmmune Serum claims to be a lightweight, high-performance serum, fortified with powerful β-glucan that boosts skin immunity and visibly corrects tone for glowing and healthy skin. the science In a short formula comprising only 7 ingredients, the hero is of course β-Glucan which is basically a polysaccharide sugar derived from various mushrooms, plants, algaes, yeast or oats. Represented at 99.99% purity for maximum potency (5,000 ppm), it is able to stimulate collagen production, accelerate wound repair, soothe and calm irritated and inflamed skin, moisturise and fight the signs of ageing. Its humectant effect is supposedly 20% more hydrating than hyaluronic acid, able to lock in…
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Benton Snail Bee Ultimate Hydrogel Eye Patch
the claim The Benton Snail Bee Ultimate Hydrogel Eye Patch claims to hydrate, brighten and nourish the sensitive skin around the eyes with snail secretion, bee venom and seaweed extracts. the science There are three highlighted heroes of this product: Snail Secretion Filtrate, Bee Venom and Seaweed. Saccharomyces/Snail Secretion Filtrate Ferment Filtrate is an ingredient obtained by filtering snail secretion which has been fermented by yeast derived from grapes. This process increases the potency of actives since they can be better absorbed into the skin. Snail mucin is said to aid skin by hydrating, preventing ageing and improving wrinkles and scars. Bee Venom is listed way down the…
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Essence, Serum and Ampoule
how are they different? As well as being nourishing, brightening and hydrating, the Korean skincare routine is complex! There are so many steps, several of which exhibit lots of similarities. Take essence, serum and ampoule for instance. They all technically do the same thing but at different potencies, textures and positions within the skincare routine. what is an essence? An essence is a lightweight liquid that follows cleansing and toning. Its primary objective is to add hydration to the skin. Essences generally comprise an abundance of plant extracts and antioxidants but may also include an additional focus. For example, they may incorporate a brightening ingredient such as niacinamide…
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Heimish Black Tea Mask Pack
the claim The Heimish Black Tea Mask Pack is a soothing gel mask infused with ingredients extracted from Black Tea, Berry, Aloe, and Centella Asiatica, delivering a 5 minute cooling treatment. It nourishes dry, fatigued skin while boosting its moisture level for the perfect water/oil balance. It also helps improves skin elasticity and minimises the appearance of pores. the science There are four hero ingredients in this mask, all herbal extracts and represented at good concentrations, featuring in positions 4-7 on the INCI. The most prominent is Green Tea Leaf Water which is a potent antioxidant source that helps to protect skin from free radical damage, reduce inflammation,…
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JKosmmune Enzyme Cleansing Powder
the claim The JKosmmune Enzyme Cleansing Powder claims to be a gentle, foaming facial cleanser uniquely formulated with 99.9% pure beta glucan and papaya-derived enzyme. the science Corn Starch displays similar absorbency properties to talc so is useful for collecting excess oil from the skin and preventing residual shine. It also provides a silky, dry after feel when used in powder based cosmetics. Corn starch has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties that help to soothe itch and calm rashes and burns. Gentle surfactants are next in terms of concentration in the powder wash. These are added for their ability to help water mix with oil and…
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Huxley Fresh and More
the claim Huxley Fresh and More is a fast absorbing moisturising gel cream formulated with 56% Sahara cactus seed oil to help heal stressed and damaged skin. the science Prickly Pear Extract is the star ingredient of the brand’s Secret of Sahara range. Sourced from Morocco and present at a dominant concentration of 56%, it has been used medicinally for centuries. The plant is hand picked and cold-pressed to procure maximum benefit. In addition to being antioxidant-rich, it is a competent humectant, displaying exceptional moisture retention to keep skin hydrated. Anti-aging properties result from a vitamin rich composition effective at preventing free-radical damage. The oil from the…
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B-Liv Immerse Me Mask
the claim The B-Liv Immerse Me Mask claims to provide a lavish boost of long lasting hydration that replenishes the skin. the science Humectants, Glycerin, Sodium PCA and Butylene Glycol feature prominently in the mask to enhance hydration, the latter also assisting to increase the penetration of other ingredients. Next, Glyceryl Polymethacrylate forms a film on the skin to stop moisture from evaporating. It displays a strong hydrating power and a high water absorbing capacity which allows it to strengthen the dermis and increase skin firmness. Featuring quite high in the INCI is Phenoxyethanol, a widely used synthetic preservative. It has global approval for use in all cosmetics…
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Gaston Shooting Star Eye Gel Patches
the claim The Gaston Shooting Star Eye Gel Patches are said to moisturise the sensitive area around the eyes as well as provide a brightening effect (crystal) and soothe and nourish (black). the science The first 5 ingredients of the two versions are identical, made up of Water, Glycerin, Carrageenan, Betaine and Allantoin. Carrageenan (sometimes called Irish Moss), is extracted from red seaweed. As well as displaying water binding ability, it helps to keep oil and water soluble ingredients together for a more stable product. Humectants are well represented in the formula with Glycerin and Betaine appearing at significant concentrations. Complementing their ability to draw moisture into the…
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Cosrx Ultimate Moisturising Rice Overnight Spa Mask
the claim The Cosrx Ultimate Moisturising Rice Overnight Spa Mask comprises more than 68.9% rice extract. It claims to deliver intense, powerful hydration while rejuvenating and nourishing skin overnight, promising healthier more radiant skin. the science Rich in amino acids, vitamin E and ferulic acid, Rice Extract has anti-inflammatory and calming effects, also providing short and long term skin hydration. It’s great for sensitive and acne prone skin types. Sunflower Seed Oil is lightweight and enriched with lineoleic acid and Vitamin E. It’s well absorbed without residue. Essential fatty acids help to maintain the skin barrier and decrease transepidermal water loss, keeping skin supple and soft. Its emollient…
