CLAY+essence
  • d'Alba,  eye

    d’Alba White Truffle Multi Treatment Eye Cream

    the claim The d’Alba White Truffle Multi Treatment Eye Cream claims to be a gentle, anti-ageing eye cream packed with Italian White Truffle Extract to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.     the science The star ingredient of this eye cream is of course the White Truffle Extract which is included at a known concentration of 3.90%. Often referred to as “white diamond”, it is said to restore skin luminosity by reversing the signs of ageing. Rich in B group vitamins, it can help with blood circulation and hydration to promote skin radiance. There are also claims that it can lift, firm and lighten skin although these…

  • Huxley Fresh and More
    Huxley,  moisturize

    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…

  • Combating Dry Skin
    routine

    Combating Dry Skin

    what does it mean to have dry skin? Skin that is dry is inefficient at producing enough sebum which can lead to dullness, cracking, tightness, itchiness and flaking. Dryness is not equivalent to dehydration. When skin is dehydrated, it lacks water; when skin is dry, it lacks oil. Dehydration is typically the result of environment, causes including inadequate water intake, poor diet, lack of humidity, season, frequent cleansing and improper cleanser choice. Dryness is simply the natural state of skin. To combat dry skin, oil reserves need to be replenished.   how to treat dry skin Ideally, skin is plump and radiant, full of moisture and bounce. Although skin type…

  • The Skin House Marine Active Cream
    moisturize,  The Skin House

    The Skin House Marine Active Cream

    the claim The Skin House Marine Active Cream claims to be a hydrating cream that contains nutrients from the sea to fill the skin with moisturise from the inside for a bright complexion.     the science Hyaluronic Acid is naturally present in the human body. It draws up to 1000 times its weight in moisture from the atmosphere into the skin for a hydrated, plump and healthy appearance. Hydrated skin is more effective at keeping ageing at bay, helping to prevent wrinkles forming and diminishing the look of existing lines. Sodium Hyaluronate is the salt form of Hyaluronic Acid and present at a solid concentration, listed third on the…

  • Dr. Jart+ Ceramidin Cream
    Dr. Jart+,  moisturize

    Dr. Jart+ Ceramidin Cream

    the claim The Dr Jart+ Ceramidin Cream claims to strengthen the skin barrier helping to protect and retain hydration and in doing so, relieving dryness and repairing damaged skin.     the science A whole collection of moisturising and barrier enforcing ingredients are included in the formulation of this iconic cream. Bifida Ferment Lysate is the resultant yeast obtained by the fermentation of Bifida which strengthens the skin barrier. It displays soothing properties, able to reduce inflammation and redness whilst also improving hydration and skin elasticity. Ceramides are vital to healthy skin because they restore natural lipids lost due to environmental factors. Their water-retention capacity and moisture barrier strengthening provide…

  • Pestlo Panthemide Face Cream
    moisturize,  Pestlo

    Pestlo Panthemide Face Cream

    the claim The Pestlo Panthemide Face Cream claims to be an ultra light, fast absorbing, deeply hydrating moisturiser that will improve skin elasticity.     the science The formula relies on B group vitamins to fulfil some of its key benefits. Niacinamide is a well tolerated form of Vitamin B3. It is a superstar multipurpose, restorative ingredient that helps to brighten skin by inhibiting melanin production. It is an effective treatment against hyperpigmentation and provides a strong defense against the appearance of discolouration and age spots. Niacinamide is also able to improve the appearance of enlarged pores, uneven skin tone, fine lines, dullness and to strengthen the skin surface. Vitamin…

  • Beauty of Joseon Dynasty Cream
    Beauty of Joseon,  moisturize

    Beauty Of Joseon Dynasty Cream

    the claim The Beauty of Joseon Dynasty Cream claims to be a luxury moisturising cream containing time honoured oriental herbs as used by Korean empresses of the Joseon Dynasty. Ginseng and Orchid extract brighten, firm and target the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines for a radiant complexion.     the science Listed as the third ingredient after Water and Butylene Glycol (included to enhance the absorption and hence effectiveness of actives), Niacinamide is a well tolerated form of Vitamin B3. It is a superstar ingredient that acts as a restorative agent to offer multiple skin benefits. It helps to brighten skin by inhibiting melanin production. It is an effective…

  • Roccoco Botanicals
    first cleanse,  moisturize,  Roccoco,  second cleanse

    Roccoco Botanicals Brand Review

    the brand Jacine Greenwood is a cosmetic chemist and the founder of Australian brand, Roccoco Botanicals. Her vision was to create a safe, plant based range of products that manage skin without the risk of acne breakouts or allergic reactions. The brand philosophy dismisses skin peeling for acne treatment, claiming this causes stress and inflammation, reducing the integrity of the skin barrier. Rather, they rely on the soothing properties of plants and enzymes for gentle exfoliation, since they work on redundant cells, living tissue remaining unaffected. Her fascination for France and its architecture is the inspiration behind the brand name.     the review I was gifted various sample sized…

  • Trilogy Eye Contour Cream
    eye,  Trilogy

    Trilogy Eye Contour Cream

    the claim The Trilogy Eye Contour Cream is said to smooth fine lines and reduce puffiness with Rosapene™, aloe vera and acai.     the science Rosapene™ is a brand trademarked antioxidant complex that includes Tomato, Cranberry and Sunflower Seed Oils, Acai Fruit Oil, Oat Kernel Extract, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Lycopene and Tocopherol. Rich in antioxidants, the complex is effective at warding off free radicals and reducing the impact of environmental stressors and hence premature ageing. It also includes essential fatty acids which help to retain and restore the moisture barrier plus improve softness and elasticity for more supple and hydrated skin.   Helping to deliver replenishing and moisturising properties and…

  • Rovectin Barrier Repair Cream
    moisturize,  Rovectin,  Style Korean

    Rovectin Skin Essentials Barrier Repair Cream

    the claim The Rovectin Skin Essentials Barrier Repair Cream claims to be an ultra-hydrating, gentle face and body cream that heals dry, damaged or irritated skin by forming a resilient barrier against future damage.     the science Included at a significant volume, Shea Butter is a concentrated source of natural vitamins and fatty acids, making it incredibly moisturising and nourishing for the skin as well as boosting its ability to produce collagen. A good amount of antioxidants like vitamin E as well as polyphenols and phytonutrients give it anti-inflammatory properties, helping to soothe acne plus irritated and inflamed skin. Strengthening these characteristics are Tocopherol, Sunflower Seed Oil and Soybean…