korean Archive | Berries in the Snow

Review: Jumiso Have A Good Cream Snail & Centella

25. April 2021

// SKINCARE / PR SAMPLE / KBEAUTY //

This review of the Jumiso Have a Good Cream Snail & Centella is long overdue, but I enjoyed this moisturizer so much, that I wanted to share my opinion with you nonetheless. It is a deeply hydrating moisturizer suited for all skin types and day and night use.

The Korean brand Jumiso is part of the brand Helloskin and is directed towards meeting all consumer needs. Their brand name is composed of “Ju” for ” to give”, and “miso” for “smile”. This is even visualized in their smiling brand logo. To me, the brand is probably best and widely known for the All Day Vitamin Brightening & Balancing Facial Serum, which has been loved by many within the skincare enthusiast community. But today, I will talk about this wonderful cream called Jumiso Have A Good Cream.

This hydrating and soothing cream is directed towards all skin types and for use during night and day. It is a very simple cream, but this makes it probably so much more worth a try. Noteworthy are the two focus ingredients, that are snail secretion filtrate and Centella Asiatica extract. The snail extract delivers great hydration and anti-inflammatory properties, while the Centella extract also helps to repair the skin.

Snail Secretion Filtrate

Snail Mucus or snail secretion filtrate claims to be rich in hyaluronic acid and antioxidants and thus help our skin to regenerate stimulating the formation of collagen, elastin, and dermal components that repair the signs of photoaging. Also, it claims to minimize the damage generated by free radicals that are responsible for premature skin aging (there is a Wikipedia entry for snail mucus, too). The snail mucus is not obtained by harming the snails, but it is collected in so-called snail farms.

Centella Asiatica

Centella Asiatica extracts have been used in traditional medicine and are still used today, having beneficial properties like wound-healing. Scientific studies have shown that continuous application of the extract can promote collagen-building, act anti-inflammatory, and anti-oxidative. The purified extract of Centella Asiatica is called TECA. It is a standardized extract composed of Asiaticoside, Asiatic Acid, and Madecassic acid. It is used in skincare targeting wound-healing, scarred skin, sensitive skin, but also seems to be effective on cellulite.

Apart from these two ingredients, the composition of the cream is paraben-free, sulfate-free, alcohol-free, and free from allergens according to the EU. Furthermore, it contains panthenol and hyaluronic acid, which are both known for their wound-healing and hydrating properties. I also spotted bacillus ferment and oils (macadamia and jojoba) among the ingredients:

Water, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Squalane, Centella Asiatica Extract, Bacillus Ferment, 1-2,Hexanediol, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Olivate, Dimethicone, Trehalose, Arachidyl Alcohol, Sorbitan Olivate, Arginine, Carbomer, Cyclopentasiloxane, Panthenol, Caprylyl Glycol, Behenyl Alcohol, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Polysilicone-11, Arachidyl Glucoside, Ethylhexylglycerin, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil, Allantoin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Mentha Haplocalix Extract, Snail Secretion Filtrate, Menthyl Lactate, Disodium EDTA, Backhousia Citriodora Leaf Oil, Phenoxyethanol, Asiaticoside, Madecassic Acid, Asiatic Acid, Beta-Glucan

The texture of the cream is like you’d expect it to be. A white-colored cream, that is not as stiff as Nivea, for example, but glides softly and feels very moisturizing and melty. It absorbs nicely and doesn’t pill when using sunscreen or BB creams on top. I used up the 50g of cream in such a short time because my skin loved it so much- and of course, it worked great during the day, but also for the night-time routine. Since my skin is dry, I definitely enjoyed all the hydrating properties of the cream, but the soothing properties were a plus during the night. I also mixed drops of oil into the cream for my night routine, to make it even richer.

If you have a dry skin type like me, I can assume, that you will like this cream. Also, if you are looking for minimal skincare products, this cream is a good choice, because it works during morning and evening skincare routines and contains hydrating and repairing properties. I discovered, that the design of the jar has been changed a bit, but the content is still the same. At YesStyle it retails for around 19 US$. You can also use my code BERRIES for up to a 5% discount on your order. Also, check out my Coupons & Discount page for more and up-to-date deals.

Have you tried this cream? What is your favorite product from Jumiso?

asian cosmetics beauty I'm from review Wishtrend

Review: I’m from Mugwort Sheet Mask

19. April 2021

//KBEAUTY/SHEET MASK/SKINCARE//

If you follow my Instagram you know that I love using my sheet masks every other day. Recently, I used this I’m from Mugwort Sheet Mask from Wishtrend, and since it was my first product from the I’m from Mugwort line I wanted to share my impression with you.

I’m from is a Korean brand with the motto “a good cosmetics with a good ingredient”. I’m from is using natural ingredients in their cosmetics, and they want to be an honest and quality providing brand. They have three promises to their customers, being 1. open composition, which means transparent ingredients, 2. Honest Farm, meaning honest ingredients with a true origin, and 3. being free of harmful chemicals.

The I’m from Mugwort Sheet Mask comes in a simple sachet with the signature mud-green color of the I’m from Mugwort skincare line. There is an essence, cream, mask, and spot treatment from this line, as well., but I haven’t tried them yet.

This sheet mask comes with 91.45% Mugwort essence from the region of Ganghwa in South Korea. Apart from this key ingredient, the ingredients list is not very long either, which I appreciate a lot:

Artemisia Princeps (Mugwort) Extract, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Methlypropanediol, Cordyceps Sinensis (Caterpillar fungus) Extract, 1,2 Hexanediol, Capryly Glycol, Allantoin, Zanthoxylum Piperitum (Japanese Pepper) Fruit Extract, Usnea Barbata (Lichen) Extract, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Panthenol, Pulsatilla Koreana (Korean pasque flower) Extract, Carbomer, Arginine

Mugwort Extract – Artemisia Princeps Extract

So, what are the benefits of Mugwort extract after all: skincare products containing Artemisia Princeps extract are known to improve dry skin symptoms by improving the barrier repairing effects of the skin by upregulating antioxidant enzymes. Moreover, mugwort extract is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and has a long tradition in Asian traditional medicine for all its benefits. A good starting point for further reading might be >this publication< by Hirano et al. from 2017.

The mask itself has a thin fabric, which is thoroughly soaked with the essence. The essence itself is clear with a light green/yellowish color. According to the description on Wishtrend, the product has a pH of ~5.8. Moreover, it is free from ethanol, silicone, steroids, artificial coloring, and artificial fragrance. The mask is vegan and cruelty-free. The mask had good adhering properties and didn’t slide around on my face while wearing it. I used it for 20 minutes before removing it, and though a lot of the essence was absorbed by my skin, it wasn’t dried out completely. There was enough left-over essence in the sachet to be used on the neck and arms. Below, you can see a picture of the mask after I used it for 20 minutes.

My impression was, that my skin soaked up as much as possible and felt so hydrated after using it. Also, I had the feeling the skin was calmed down, as well. The fabric had a nice feeling on the skin and was not bothering me while wearing it. This mask is definitely something that is worth a try and although it might be expensive compared to or sheet masks, I can imagine repurchasing this one. A single mask retails for 4 US$, it is also available in a box with 20 pieces for 40 US$. You can also check my Coupons & Discount page for additional codes to use during your purchase on Wishtrend. They usually have monthly discount codes of 10 %, or you can use my referral code C0D76CCE. You will get a 10% discount on your first purchase.

Have you used this mask or any of the I’m from Mugwort skincare products?

asian cosmetics beauty BemusedKorea PR Sample review

Review: A by Bom Ultra Watery Eonseongcho Cleansing Foam

7. November 2019

//PR SAMPLE/KBEAUTY/SKINCARE//

A by Bom Ultra Watery Eonseongcho Cleansing Foam, a name that is hard to remember for non-Koreans, I guess. I had to doublecheck whether I wrote it correctly. But despite the spelling difficulties, I’m finally here with a review for this gentle cleansing foam.

Do you know A by Bom? A by Bom Cosmetics is another Kbeauty brand from the vast amount of increasing KBeauty brands on the market. Their motivation is to take care of people and nature. A.by BOM Cosmetics is made of natural ingredients of various vegetable oils and extracts such as rice, beans, camellia, jasmine, lotus, black teas, and so on. I reviewed the A by Bom Ultra Time Return Eye Cream before, which was perfect for anyone suffering from dry skin under or around the eyes. The A by Bom Ultra Watery Eonseongcho Cleansing Foam on the other hand, which I’m talking about today, is a very mild foaming cleanser suited for everyone.

The A by Bom Ultra Watery Eonseongcho Cleansing Foam promises a dense foam with non-irritating micro-bubble that cleans the pores and keeps the skin hydrated. Therefore, two key ingredients are used: 1. Phyto-Oligo complex and 2. Eoseongcho Extract. You might be wondering what Eoseongcho is after all, and if you are a skincare addict you have stumbled across this extract under another name: houttuynia cordata extract! Houttuynia cordata is great for skin conditioning and purifying. The foam cleanser contains 10000 ppm of the extract. The Phyto-Oligo complex is a patented substance that contains Aloe Vera and Hollyhock. It has calming and moisturizing properties.

The full ingredients are listed below:

Water, Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate, Disodium Laureth,Sulfosuccinate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Houttuynia Cordata Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Althaea Rosea Flower Extract, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract, Pteris Multifida Extract, Cynara Scolymus (Artichoke) Leaf Extract, Ulmus Davidiana Root Extract, Amaranthus Caudatus Seed Extract, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Polyglycerl-10 Myristate, Citric Acid, Polyquaternium-39, Potassium Cocoate, Glycerin, Methylpropanediol, Butylene Glycol, Polyquaternium-51, Beta-Glucan, Fragrance 24

The product is paraben-free, sulfate-free, alcohol-free, silicone-free and free from EU allergens.

The A by Bom Ultra Watery Eonseongcho Cleansing Foam comes in a pump bottle containing 145 ml of product. The design is simple and yet cute with the green leaves all around. In order to use it, you have to apply the foam on your damp skin and massage it. Afterward, you can rinse it off. I used this foam cleanser as the second cleanser in my double cleansing routine. This means, that I used a cleansing oil or balm in order to remove make-up first. In a second step, I’m using the foam cleanser to remove the remaining dirt. You can see the foam in the pics below.

You can see from the pics that the foam is not as dense as I thought, to be honest. Also, I had to pump more than 5-6 times to get a decent amount of the product into my hands. I’m suspecting, that the foam dispenser was somehow not working properly. I’m wondering whether the product has a denser consistency with a regular pump. If you tried this product yourself, let me know if you had the same problem with this product. On the other note, the foam itself was indeed very gentle and didn’t feel drying on the skin. The skin was feeling clean without feeling stripped of all its moisture. I also love the short ingredients list and the two key ingredients used here. Despite the defected pump, I emptied this product to the last drops-or foam :D

You can get your hands on the A by Bom Ultra Watery Eonseongcho Cleansing Foam for 24 US$ on BemusedKorea.

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asian cosmetics beauty Glimyu PR Sample review

Review: Glimyu GlimBase Set

3. November 2019

//PR SAMPLE/SKINCARE/KBEAUTY//

I’m very happy and excited to introduce a new K-beauty brand to you named “Glimyu”. I will introduce you to the Glimyu GlimBase Set, a K-beauty skincare regimen cut down to three products to be more appalling to the western market. Yet, all the products are made in Korea and contain aspects of the typical Korean multistep skincare routine and provide you with daily skincare essentials.

Glimyu calls their skincare routine a SKIP care routine, meaning that you can use the multifunctional products to skip certain steps of an elaborate skincare routine, without feeling that you have missed them. The advantage is a simpler skincare routine that makes it even suitable for lazy people. Each of the products has several purposes. The Glimyu GlimBase Set I’m showing you here consists of three products as your daily skincare essentials: there is a Jelly Cleansing Balm, a Toning Essence Spray, and an All in 1 Cream. There is also another set called the Glimyu Glimroutine Set, where a Sun Shield Primer and a Sleeping Mask are included on top.

Glimyu GlimClean Jelly Cleansing Balm

Let’s start with the first step in everyone’s skincare routine, which is cleansing. The Glimyu GlimClean Jelly Cleansing Balm is the dedicated product for this skincare step. It combines Cleansing, Moisturizer, and Care in one step. This cleansing balm is what you expect if you have used a cleansing balm before. If you never have used a cleansing balm you might be skeptical first, but I assure you that it works great in removing makeup and dirt.

First of all, this orange/yellow colored jelly balm smells amazing! It has a citrus scent that doesn’t remind you of toilet or bathroom cleaning products, but of something to eat. You can scoop out some products and you will feel how smooth and melty it feels. Apply the balm on your dry face and remove all your eye makeup and facial makeup, or simply massage your skin with it. Since it melts easily upon touch it is also very easy to distribute. In a second step wet your hands and massage once again over your skin. This will emulsify the balm into a milky/soapy product. Afterward, using lukewarm water wash off the product. Your skin will be cleansed. Moreover, since it is an oil balm, your skin will not feel stripped or dried out.

The ingredients are listed below:

ETHYLHEXYL PALMITATE, HYDROGENATED POLY (C6-14 OLEFIN), PEG-20 GLYCERYL TRIISOSTEARATE, CAPRYLIC/CAPRIC TRIGLYCERIDE, COCOS NUCIFERA (COCONUT) OIL, DEXTRIN PALMITATE, SILICA DIMETHYL SILYLATE, 1,2-HEXANEDIOL, CITRUS AURANTIUM DULCIS (ORANGE) PEEL OIL, PRUNUS AMYGDALUS DULCIS (SWEET ALMOND) OIL, DEXTRIN PALMITATE/ETHYLHEXANOATE, PERSEA GRATISSIMA (AVOCADO) OIL, MACADAMIA TERNIFOLIA SEED OIL, TOCOPHERYL ACETATE

The list is short and it’s a cocktail of ingredients like coconut, orange and almond oil. These oils will also help to keep your skin moisturized. Moreover, avocado and macadamia seed oil are added. And a Vitamin E derivate is included aswell. This will have anti-oxidative effects and protect your skin.

I definitely love cleansing balms in my skincare. This balm is very effective in removing my make-up, including my eyeliner and mascara. I also didn’t have a sight blurring effect on my vision, despite using it around and in my eyes. It didn’t sting either and was altogether a pleasant feeling to use. The scent is amazing and makes it a joy to use. My downside is, that it didn’t come with an included spatula to scoop out the product. The balm contains 120ml and retails for 22.95€ on the official brand page.

Glimyu GlimFresh Toning Essence Spray

The Glimyu GlimFresh Toning Essence Spray will be your second step in your skincare routine and is used after cleansing. This toning mist combines priming, balancing and care in one step. It comes in a convenient spray bottle, making it very easy to use. The mist combines toner and essence in one step using lotus flower extract, Centella Asiatica, rice extract ginseng extract and many more, and helps to balance out the skin’s pH after cleansing and provide it with moisture and vitamins.

The ingredients are listed below:

AQUA, GLYCERIN, NEOPENTYL GLYCOL DICAPRATE, CETYL ETHYLHEXANOATE, CETETH-20, STEARETH-20, GLYCERYL STEARATE, CETEARYL ALCOHOL, PHENOXYETHANOL, TOCOPHERYL ACETATE, PENTYLENE GLYCOL, NELUMBO NUCIFERA FLOWER WATER, CENTELLA ASIATICA EXTRACT, CERAMIDE NP, HYDROGENATED LECITHIN, FICUS CARICA (FIG) FRUIT EXTRACT, RETINYL PALMITATE, BUTYLENE GLYCOL, ASCORBIC ACID, TOCOPHEROL, BIOFLAVONOIDS, ETHYLHEXYLGLYCERIN, HESPERIDIN, SODIUM CITRATE, ORYZA SATIVA (RICE) EXTRACT, CARICA PAPAYA (PAPAYA) FRUIT EXTRACT, PANAX GINSENG ROOT EXTRACT, PARFUM, CITRIC ACID, DISODIUM EDTA, PEG-40 HYDROGENATED CASTOR OIL

I love all the plant-based ingredients here, combined with ceramides and vitamins.

The application is super easy, as said above. It comes in a spraying bottle with a super fine nozzle. Honestly, it is the finest mist I’ve ever used. It says to use it at 20 cm distance and spray it on your skin. It can be repeated several times, too. I especially love the scent here once again. It reminds me of a typical soap scent. Very refreshing and clean. And as said, it is such a fine a delicate mist, almost a fog, too!

The Glimyu GlimFresh Toning Essence Spray contains 150ml and retails for 18.95€ from the official brand page.

Glimyu GlimCare All in 1 Cream

The last step in your simple skincare routine with Glimyu is the Glimyu GlimCare All in 1 Cream. This daily moisturizer preps the skin, perfects it, provides moisture and nourishment. The cute pumping bottle contains the multi-purpose cream that can be used during day and night and for all skin types. It’s an allrounder when it comes to the daily moisturization of the skin.

The moisturizer comes in a pump bottle that dispenses a good amount of the product. One to two pumps are enough for me, for example. It’s a cream type moisturizer with a flowery scent. It absorbs very quickly and leaves a fresh feeling on the skin, but no stickiness or heavy feeling. The key ingredients are camelia oil for natural glow and elasticity, jojoba oil and sunflower oil.

The ingredients are listed below:

AQUA, CYCLOHEXASILOXANE, GLYCERIN, DIMETHICONE/VINYL DIMETHICONE CROSSPOLYMER, CETYL ETHYLHEXANOATE, GLYCERYL STEARATE, PEG-100 STEARATE, 1,2-HEXANEDIOL, NIACINAMIDE, CETYL ALCOHOL, PEG/PPG-17/6 COPOLYMER, METHYLPROPANEDIOL, CENTELLA ASIATICA EXTRACT, CERAMIDE NP, HYDROGENATED LECITHIN, FICUS CARICA (FIG) FRUIT EXTRACT, BETAINE, SODIUM POLYACRYLATE, ETHYLHEXYL STEARATE, TRIDECETH-6, CAMELLIA JAPONICA SEED OIL, SIMMONDSIA CHINENSIS (JOJOBA) SEED OIL, HELIANTHUS ANNUUS (SUNFLOWER) SEED OIL, PARFUM, ETHYLHEXYLGLYCERIN, ADENOSINE, POLYSORBATE 60, AMMONIUM ACRYLOYLDIMETHYLTAURATE/VP COPOLYMER

The Glimyu GlimCare All in 1 Cream contains 50ml and retails for 24.95€ from the official brand site.

My impression of all three products of the Glimyu GlimBase Set is very positive and they definitely exceeded my expectations. I’m always a bit skeptical when Korean skincare tries to appeal to western consumers, but I think Glimyu did a great job here. I can imagine that people who never thought about their skincare will have a good starting point here. My favorite out of the three products is the Glimyu GlimClean Jelly Cleansing Balm. I have used a couple of cleansing balms before, but I really enjoyed the orange scent and that it was not irritating or stinging when used around the eyes. It even didn’t cause a blurred vision as most other cleansing oils or balms do. Moreover, I also love that all products by Glimyu are 100% vegan and cruelty-free. The key ingredients used in the products are very typical for Asian skincare products, which I love a lot.

Would I change my more elaborate skincare regimen, now that I have tried this easier routine using the Glimyu GlimBase Set?

I must say, that I wouldn’t. While I like all the products on their own for their texture and ingredients, these three steps cannot replace my usual skincare routine, but they can be incorporated into it. I’m a double cleanser believer, that means, if I wear makeup, I do double cleansing using an oil/balm as first cleansing and a second gel or foam cleanser. I would never change or reduce that step. If I do not use any makeup oil/balm cleansers are unnecessary in my eyes. I stick to lighter cleansers like foam or cleansing water. When it comes to toners, I love the fine mist of the Glimyu GlimFresh Toning Essence Spray and it is great for lazy skincare in the mornings, but I love my rich toners and the moisture of a big splash of toner directly on my face. This mist is great for in-between to fresh-ups for me. For a daily moisturizer, the Glimyu GlimCare All in 1 Cream might be great and I can see this product liked especially by oily and combination skin types. I prefer to mix in a few drops of facial oil into the cream, especially now during winter. During the nighttime, this cream is not enough for my skin and I need a richer and heavier product. I recommend the larger skincare set that Glimyu provides (Glimyu GlimRoutine Set) because it also includes a sleeping cream and sun protection, which are both essential steps in my skincare, too. You can get all three products of the Glimyu GlimBase Set for a price of 59,95€ (it’s currently on sale), which is a good bargain comparing it to the single product prices.

What do you think about brand Glimyu? Let me know :)

asian cosmetics beauty PR Sample Purito review

Review: Purito Centella Green Level Calming Toner

3. November 2019

//KBEAUTY/PR SAMPLE/SKINCARE//

Hands up if you are a toner addict like me! I simply love toners, no matter whether they are runny like water or thicker and essence like. Today’s review is about the Purito Centella Green Level Calming Toner! If you love the thicker toners I have a special recommendation for you here, that may be a competitor to my beloved Klairs Supple Preparation Toner:

Purito is a rather young Korean brand with cruelty-free and 10-free skincare products. The products are free from paraben, ethanol, surfactants, artificial coloring, fragrance, triethanolamine, phthalein, triclosan, petrochemicals, and benzoyl peroxide. Moreover, the products gain a lot of popularity these days because of their short and yet effective ingredients list. Moreover, they are very affordable compared to other brands using similar ingredients. I have reviewed a couple of their products before: the Purito Pure Vitamin C Serum and the Purito Snail Repair Advanced 91 Serum and my beloved Purito Centella Green Level All In One Mild Pads, for example. I was absolutely in love with the Purito Sea Buckthorn Vital 70 Cream, too!

The origin of the brand name and their motto is stated on the brand site:

“PURITO is a combined word of “Purify” and “To”

(comes from a Chinese character, 土 meaning “Soil”).

“Purify” means to purify their natural ingredients to create safe and clean products.

“To” means to go back to basics to strengthen and repair collapsed skin barriers.

Back to the Basics. Just like a healthy root grows a healthy tree, health is

the root of glowing skin. Dramatic short-term results are exciting, but they don’t last.

With PURITO you will enjoy life-long healthy skin”

The Purito Centella Green Level Calming Toner is a calming and soothing toner containing Centella Asiatica and hyaluronic acid for an extra boost of moisture. The toner has a mild acidity of pH5.5 and is perfect for use after cleansing your skin and balancing it. The toner is not a watery toner, but a jelly-like essence toner. It comes in a green-colored bottle containing 200ml.

Ingredients

Water,Centella Asiatica Extract,Butylene Glycol,Pentylene Glycol,Dipropylene Glycol,1,2-Hexanediol,Sodium Hyaluronate,Panthenol,Portulaca Oleracea Extract,Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Extract,Glycerin,Allantoin,Trehalose,Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate,Carbomer,Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate,Arginine,Ethylhexylglycerin,Disodium EDTA,Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil,Pelargonium Graveolens Flower Oil,Cananga Odorata Flower Oil,Rose Flower Oil

All the ingredients are EWG safe and you can also check the ingredients via Skincarisma. Apart from the key ingredient Centella Asiatica, other noteworthy ingredients are panthenol, hyaluronic acid, butylene glycol, and glycerin. They are all great moisturizing ingredients. Witch Hazel Extract and Allantoin help with soothing the skin.

Centella Asiatica

The key ingredient Centella Asiatica Extract makes 10% of the total ingredients. Centella Asiatica extracts have been used in traditional medicine and are still used today, having beneficial properties like wound-healing. Scientific studies have shown that continuous application of the extract can promote collagen-building, act anti-inflammatory, and anti-oxidative. The purified extract of Centella Asiatica is called TECA. It is a standardized extract composed of Asiaticoside, Asiatic Acid and Madecassic acid. It is used in skincare targeting wound-healing, scarred skin, sensitive skin, but also seems to be effective on cellulite.

I especially enjoyed the thicker texture of the Purito Centella Green Level Calming Toner. It takes some time to absorb, because it is not like water, and also doesn’t contain alcohol. But once it absorbs after some pats, it will leave your skin refreshed and calmed and kind of bouncy It can also be used for layering, for an especially rich feeling and more hydration, and I used it often for 7-skin technique. This toner was my favorite, when I felt my skin was stressed, or when using exfoliating skincare products during the night, like chemical exfoliators containing AHA/BHA/PHA. While using it, I never experienced any irritations caused by the product.

As you see in the pictures above, the bottle comes in a cardboard box in the typical Purito design. What I love most about the brand are their Cartoons inside the cardboard boxes (Puritoons). These cute cartoons give you information or tips on how to use the products. This cartoon will show you the basic use of the toner first. Apart from this, you can also use it to soak cotton pads or compressed sheet masks with the toner and use them for masking. Moreover, the toner can be used to repair broken eyeshadows or compressed powders/blushes. Last, but not least, you can create your own mist, by mixing the toner together with a few drops of your favorite facial oil. I really love this idea of these skincare cartoons!

All in all, I’m very happy with the Purito Centella Green Level Calming Toner and definitely recommend to check it out. It ranks among my favorite calming and thicker textured toners, and if you love Centella Asiatica as a key ingredient, you need to check it out! You can get the toner and other products from Purito from YesStyle. Using the discount code BERRIES you will get 5% off your order, too. It’s currently on sale for 15.20€, but even if this sale ends, there are always plenty of other offers at YesStyle.

What is your favorite toner? Do you prefer the watery ones or the gel.type ones?

beauty PR Sample review Wishtrend

Review: By Wishtrend Polyphenols in Propolis 15% Ampoule

30. October 2019

//PR SAMPLE/KBEAUTY/SKINCARE//

For all those Propolis lovers in skincare: today’s review is about the By Wishtrend Polyphenols in Propolis 15% Ampoule. If you are curious about this product make sure to continue reading.

Probably, you know that the Korean beauty retailer Wishtrend does not only sell other Korean brands but also has taken a step into the beauty industry itself. Apart from known brand names Klairs or Jungle Botanics they also have products named under the brand “By Wishtrend”. Well-known products from By Wishtrend are the Vitamin C 21.5 Advanced Serum, the TECA 1% Barrier Cream, the Green Tea & Enzyme Powder Wash, and the Mandelic Acid 5% Skin Prep Water. I reviewed all of the mentioned products before if you are interested in more details. The By Wishtrend Polyphenols in Propolis 15% Ampoule is one of the products that I have used up most recently and enjoyed every bit of it.

As the name of the By Wishtrend Polyphenols in Propolis 15% Ampoule already states, propolis is the star ingredient of this ampoule. Propolis is a resinous mixture collected from barks of trees by bees to seal their chambers with the larvae. Propolis has antibacterial and antifungal properties and thus protects the larva, but this also makes it useful in skin care, especially for troubled skin, but it also has skin conditioning properties and makes your skin feel smooth. The propolis of this ampule is collected from the Auvergne volcanic region in France and it says to contain two types of polyphenols named Catchin and Quercetin. The polyphenols have antioxidative properties. The propolis makes 15% of the total ingredients. Other key ingredients are Houttuynia Cordata Extract (makes 59%), hyaluronic acid, and zinc PCA.

The full ingredients are listed below:

Houttuynia Cordata Extract, Propolis Extract, Glycerin, Propanediol, Isopentyldiol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Water, Sodium Hyaluronate, Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract, Corallina Officinalis Extract, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Punica Granatum Fruit Extract, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Extract, Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract, Panthenol, Perilla Frutescens Extract, Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract, Lactobacillus Ferment, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Butylene Glycol, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Betaine, Xanthan Gum, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium EDTA, Zinc PCA, Pantolactone

The By Wishtrend Polyphenols in Propolis 15% Ampoule is free from parabens, alcohol, sulfates, silicones, and EU allergens. Moreover, it is fungal acne safe. You can check the ingredients via Skincarisma, which I found always very helpful. Other noteworthy ingredients, apart from the ones I mentioned before, are witch hazel extract for soothing, panthenol, glycerin, and betaine for moisturizing and skin conditioning, and a bunch of plant-based ingredients. According to Wishtrend, the pH of the ampoule lies around 5.6 and the product is cruelty-free, too.

This ampoule is perfectly suited for people with acne or irritations, or people with dry or aging skin. Propolis combines effects of anti-aging, soothing and hydration and is therefore perfectly suited for all of these concerns. The ampoule comes in a typical brown glass bottle with a dropper. The packaging design is simple but neat.

The By Wishtrend Polyphenols in Propolis 15% Ampoule has a light yellowish color and a consistency, that is characteristic of an ampoule. It is not runny as water, but thicker. It feels smooth when applying and absorbs nicely without stickiness. Moreover, it feels hydrating upon application. My skin drank up that ampoule fully and I loved it. I used it up so quickly and enjoyed it during day and night.

I have tried other propolis serums before, like the COSRX Propolis Light Ampoule and the It’s Skin Power 10 Formula Propolis Ampoule. Out of these three, the By Wishtrend Polyphenols in Propolis 15% Ampoule has been my favorite so far. It feels simply richer and more nourishing and I love the ingredients that are used here.

The By Wishtrend Polyphenols in Propolis 15% Ampoule retails for $32.00 from Wishtrend. This is the only downside I see since it is more expensive than the other propolis ampoules I tried. But Black Friday is almost here, and in general, Wishtrend has many specials and coupons all over the year for a proper discount. Check out my Coupons & Discount page for saving some bucks here. If you haven’t made any purchases on Wishtrend yet, you can also use my referral code C0D76CCE. You will get a 10% discount on your first purchase.

The By Wishtrend Polyphenols in Propolis 15% Ampoule has my recommendation if you are looking for a good propolis ampoule. It has good ingredients, an enjoyable texture, and hydrating effect, and works well during the day and nighttime routines. Have you found your favorite propolis ampoule yet?

asian cosmetics beauty PR Sample review

Review: A’Pieu x Rilakkuma Air-Fit Cushion Blusher

29. October 2019

// PR SAMPLE/ MAKEUP / KBEAUTY //

Who can resist Rilakkuma? I can’t, that’s for sure :D Here, I have the A’Pieu x Rilakkuma Air-Fit Cushion Blusher in shade BR01 fo you.

The A’Pieu Rilakkuma was published some time ago, and is no new edition. I simply wanted to share this post because of the beautiful pics of this blusher cushion. There were a total of 5 colors available for this cushion blushers. The one here is a brown bronzer-like shade.

If you haven’t used a cushion blusher, it is very easy to use, too. Similar to a cushion foundation, it comes in a pact with a sponge compartment that is soaked with the blush liquid. Using a cushion puff that is pressed onto the soaked sponge, the product is transferred on the puff and can be applied onto the cheecks.

Even the cushion puff has a Rilakkuma print and is so adoreable.

Compared to cushion foundations the pact of the A’Pieu x Rilakkuma Air-Fit Cushion Blusher is much smaller. But it comes with a mirror inside the lid aswell.

The texture of the blush is creamy and it has a nice glow aswell. The brown color is very light and also suited on fairer skin types. It can be blended in very nicely, too.

All in all, despite having a cute design, the A’Pieu x Rilakkuma Air-Fit Cushion Blusher is also easy to use and can create a very natural finish. It also can be layered and provides a nice glow.

Do you like this A’Pieu x Rilakkuma collab? What do you prefer, glow or matte blush?

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asian cosmetics beauty Leaders PR Sample review

Review: Leaders Coconut Bio Mask

27. October 2019

//KBEAUTY/PR SAMPLE/SKINCARE//

This is my first review after a long time! I did take a long hiatus from blogging, but now I’m back with new energy and motivation. My review today is about the Leaders Coconut Bio Mask. I reviewed the Leaders 7 Wonders Biocellulose Masks before and loved them so much back then, that I was very curious about these coconut masks and couldn’t wait to try them.

The Leaders Coconut Bio Mask comes in four versions, dedicated to various superfoods that are used as key ingredient. There are the versions with blueberry, tomatoes, brokkoli, and orange. Each sheet mask is packed in a sachet with the key ingredient displayed . This makes the mask design very colorful and vibrant! I loved to take pictures of the sheet masks thanks to this beautiful design. If you go for the Coconut Bio Mask Special Set you will receive a box that contains one of each kind. The masks are no cotton sheet masks, but instead they are naturally fermented coconut gel masks.

Leaders Coconut Bio Mask with Brokkoli

The Leaders Coconut Bio Mask with Brokkoli is directed towards calming, refreshing and sebum conrol. It mask is rich in vitamins B, C and anti-oxidants. The mask is recommended for sensitive and irritated skin, or for oily skin with excessive sebum. The ingredients are listed below:

Aqua (Water), Methylpropanediol, Butylene Glycol, Dipropylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Acer Saccharum (Sugar Maple) Extract, Brassica Oleracea Italica (Broccoli) Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Fruit Extract, Glycerin, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Betaine, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Xanthan Gum, Parfum (Fragrance), Polysorbate 60, Sorbitan Isostearate, Artemisia Capillaris Flower Extract, Ecklonia Cava Extract, Houttuynia Cordata Extract, Saururus Chinensis Extract, Achillea Millefolium Extract, Arnica Montana Flower Extract, Artemisia Absinthium Extract, Gentiana Lutea Root Extract

As you can seec the ingredients are mostly plant based extracts. Brokkoli is thereby known for its astringent effects and is rich in β-Carotene . Chamomille has soothing effects, Achilea Millefolium has wound-healing properies. There is also glycerine and butylene glycol for moisturizing the skin. Moreover, this mask is free from parabens, sulphates, alcohol, silicone and is EU allergen free (according to Skincarisma).

Leaders Coconut Bio Mask with Blueberry

The Leaders Coconut Bio Mask with Blueberry is directed towards providing energy and moisture. This mask is rich in vitamins B, C and anti-oxidants. The mask is recommended for skin that is rough, dry, stressed, and tired, or needs nutrition. The ingredients are listed below:

Aqua (Water), Methylpropanediol, Butylene Glycol, Dipropylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Acer Saccharum (Sugar Maple) Extract, Vaccinium Angustifolium (Blueberry) Fruit Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Fruit Extract, Glycerin, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Betaine, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Xanthan Gum, Parfum (Fragrance), Polysorbate 60, Sorbitan Isostearate, Artemisia Capillaris Flower Extract, Ecklonia Cava Extract, Houttuynia Cordata Extract, Saururus Chinensis Extract, Achillea Millefolium Extract, Arnica Montana Flower Extract, Artemisia Absinthium Extract, Gentiana Lutea Root Extract

As you can seec the ingredients are almost identical to the Brokkoli mask, Only Blueberry is now the key ingredient. Blueberries are famous for their rich content in anti-oxidants (Anthocyanin) and vitamins A and C. Blueberries are also rich in essential fatty acids . The mask is free from parabens, sulphates, alcohol, silicone and is EU allergen free (according to Skincarisma), too.

Leaders Coconut Bio Mask with Tomato

The Leaders Coconut Bio Mask with Tomato is directed towards providing elasticity and firmness. This mask is rich in vitamins B, C and anti-oxidants. The mask is recommended for skin that shows first signs o aging and skin with pigmentation. The ingredients are listed below:

Aqua (Water), Methylpropanediol, Butylene Glycol, Dipropylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Acer Saccharum (Sugar Maple) Extract, Solanum Lycopersicum (Tomato) Fruit Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Fruit Extract, Glycerin, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Betaine, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Xanthan Gum, Parfum (Fragrance), Polysorbate 60, Sorbitan Isostearate, Artemisia Capillaris Flower Extract, Ecklonia Cava Extract, Houttuynia Cordata Extract, Saururus Chinensis Extract, Achillea Millefolium Extract, Arnica Montana Flower Extract, Artemisia Absinthium Extract, Gentiana Lutea Root Extract

Again, the ingredients are identical to the other two masks, except of the key ingredient tomato. Tomato is rich in the anti-oxidant Lycopene, which helps strengething the skin’s barrier. The mask is free from parabens, sulphates, alcohol, silicone and is EU allergen free (according to Skincarisma), too.

Leaders Coconut Bio Mask with Orange

The Leaders Coconut Bio Mask with Orange is directed towards boosting the skin’s inner glow and brightening. This mask is rich in vitamins B, C and anti-oxidants. The mask is recommended for skin with dark spots and uneven skin tone, or that is tired and stressed. The ingredients are listed below:

Aqua (Water), Methylpropanediol, Butylene Glycol, Dipropylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Acer Saccharum (Sugar Maple) Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Fruit Extract, Glycerin, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Betaine, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Xanthan Gum, Parfum (Fragrance), Polysorbate 60, Sorbitan Isostearate, Artemisia Capillaris Flower Extract, Ecklonia Cava Extract, Houttuynia Cordata Extract, Saururus Chinensis Extract, Achillea Millefolium Extract, Arnica Montana Flower Extract, Artemisia Absinthium Extract, Gentiana Lutea Root Extract

Again, the ingredients are identical to the other masks, except of the key ingredient orange. Orange is rich in Vitamin C, which has brightening effects and also acts as a mild exfoliator. The mask is free from parabens, sulphates, alcohol, silicone and is EU allergen free (according to Skincarisma), too.

I used all four Leaders Coconut Bio Masks very quickly because of several reasons: first of all, I love these biocellulose masks made from fermented coconut A LOT! they adhere perfectly to my skin and also fit greatly to my facial shape. In contrast to hydrogel masks that keep sliding off my face, and are torn very easily, these are so pleasant to use. You have to remove two layers of protective film though! The second reason why I loved these masks were that they make the skin feel smooth and hyddrated. It is hard to say which of these was my favorite though, because as you can see from comparing the ingredients, all the masks are similar, except of the key ingredient. I liked them all. Also, it’s great that they are free from parabens, alcohol and sulphates. There are some fungal acne triggers though according to Skincarisma. I didn’t experience any irritations, but every person and skin type reacts in a different way. One downside for sensitive skin types is that the masks are not free from fragrances, and also the Orange mask can be too much for some skin types, because of the exfoliating effects of vitamin C. All in all, I’m very happy with my Leaders Coconut Bio Mask experience and I can definitely recommend you to try these. Especially, if you don’t like hydrogel masks, you can give these biocellulose masks a try instead!

Have you tried biocellulose masks, yet? What do think of these Leaders sheet masks?

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asian cosmetics beauty Komawo PR Sample review

Review: BRUCKE Keep Cooling Masks

24. March 2019

//BEAUTY / SKINCARE / PR SAMPLE //

Time for a new sheet mask post! A while ago I received the exclusive BRUCKE Keep Cooling Masks by the kind people of Komawo, a KBeauty Online Retailer based in Germany. I tried both masks and today I’ll be sharing my impression with you:

BRUCKE is a new KBeauty brand based on oriental medicine, combined with the practical diagnostics of western medical sciences. Their motto is “Heal Your Skin” and the products are designed to improve problematic skin and increase the immunity of it. Their key complex is the Advanced Cooling Composition, called A.C.C., which is extracted from natural herbs to keep the skin at the optimum temperature. It also has other effects like anti-inflammatory properties, sterilization, etc.

There are two BRUCKE Keep Cooling MAsks: The BRUCKE Keep Cooling Hydrogel Soothing Mask and the BRUCKE Keep Cooling Foilgel Lifting Mask. As you can see the design of the brand is simple and tries to look kind of science-y, showing diagrams of the temperatures of different facial areas before and after application.

BRUCKE Keep Cooling Foilgel Lifting Mask

The BRUCKE Keep Cooling Foilgel Lifting Mask is designed for pore tightening and volumizing. It has lifting, moisturizing, cooling and wrinkle-care properties. The sheet mask of this mask is made of a breathable gold foilgel sheet, which looks very pretty at first glance and also while wearing it on your face. The sheet has a good fit and stays in place for the time used. The ingredients are US FDA OTC and China CFDA registered. The key ingredients are Phellodendron Amurense Bark Extract, Paeonia Lactiflora Bark/Sap Extract, and Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract. Moreover, it contains Mentha Arvensis Extract, Hyaluronic Acid, Tocopherol, Adenosine, and Allantoin.

Ingredients: Water, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Phellodendron Amurense Bark Extract, Paeonia Lactiflora Bark/Sap Extract, Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract, Glycereth-26, 1,2-Hexanediol, Mentha Arvensis Extract, Glyceryl Acrylate/Acrylic Acid Copolymer, PVM/MA Copolymer, Sodium Hyaluronate, PEG/PPG-17/6 Copolymer, Hydroxyacetophenone, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Cellulose Gum, Adenosine, Allantoin, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Betaine, Polysorbate 80, Menthyl PCA, Ethyl Menthane Carboxamide, Tocopheryl Acetate, Tromethamine, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium EDTA, Fragrance

I enjoyed wearing this mask and I also loved how posh it looked with the gold pattern. The sheet is divided into two sections, one for the upper facial half and one for the lower. This helps for a better fit and keeps the mask better in its place, too. It was recommended to use this mask for 10-20 minutes. It’s not possible to evaluate properties like wrinkle-care or lifting with one-time use of the mask, but it did make the face feel refreshed and had a noticeable cooling effect. Due to the cooling sensation, the skin feels more tight and plump as well.

BRUCKE Keep Cooling Hydrogel Soothing Mask

The BRUCKE Keep Cooling Hydrogel Soothing Mask is designed for long-time moisturizing and volumizing. It has cooling, whitening, wrinkle-care, moisturizing and soothing properties. The sheet mask of this mask is made of a thick hydrogel sheet, which has a grid structure to adhere better to the skin. The ingredients here are also US FDA OTC and China CFDA registered. The key ingredients are Phellodendron Amurense Bark Extract, Paeonia Lactiflora Bark/Sap Extract, Niacinamide, and Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract. Compared to the Foilgel Lifting Mask the ingredients list contains even more plant-based ingredients and extract, like honey, Mentha Arvensis extract, ginseng root extract, Morus Alba extract, chamomile extract and many more.

Ingredients: Water Water Phellodendron Amurense Bark Extract Paeonia Lactiflora Bark/Sap Extract Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract 1,2-Hexanediol Mentha Arvensis Extract Dipropylene Glycol Glycerin Niacinamide Chondrus Crispus Powder Ceratonia Siliqua Gum Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride Butylene Glycol Paeonia Suffruticosa Root Extract Centella Asiatica Extract 1,2-Hexanediol Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract Glyceryl Caprylate Ethylhexylglycerin Cetyl Ethylhexanoate Ceratonia Siliqua Gum Glyceryl Stearate Cellulose Gum Sodium Polyacrylate Hydrogenated Polydecene Trideceth-6 Allantoin Water Butylene Glycol Rehmannia Glutinosa Root Extract Honey Extract Poria Cocos Extract Panax Ginseng Root Extract Water Butylene Glycol Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed Extract Sophora Flavescens Root Extract Angelica Gigas Root Extract Cimicifuga Racemosa Root Extract Morus Alba Bark Extract Phellinus Linteus Extract Paeonia Albiflora Root Extract Polygonum Multiflorum Root Extract Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract Polysorbate 20 Disodium EDTA Adenosine Fragrance Water Butylene Glycol Rosa Multiflora Fruit Extract Water Butylene Glycol Artemisia Princeps Leaf Extract Water Butylene Glycol Hovenia Dulcis Fruit Extract

The fit for this mask was good, too, and similar to the mask above, the sheet is separated into two parts to make it fit better. The hydrogel has a pleasant thickness but is still see-through. It was recommended to use this mask for 30 minutes. Unfortunately, I felt an unpleasant tickling feeling, so that I removed it after 15 minutes. This can be either related to any of the ingredients or that I had a bit of sensitive skin that day. Again, this is hard to evaluate, by only using one sheet mask, but I could definitely feel the cooling effect. According to the ingredients list, there are also a bunch of extracts that I usually enjoy a lot in my skincare, like ginseng, honey, or chamomile.

All in all, I enjoyed the fit of the two masks and I especially liked the BRUCKE Keep Cooling Foilgel Lifting Mask. I don’t know why my skin didn’t like the other one, but it is also hard to find who or what is to blame after only one use. You can either check them out from the official site or from Komawo. In my personal opinion, the price of almost 10€ is a bit too high, especially regarding the point that it is a one-time product. Other then that, I’m happy to see new and more unknown brands being licensed in EU. By the way, the online retailer Komawo is great if you are looking for Kbeauty brands that are EU licensed, this way you will avoid problems with customs, as well. Since they are based in Germany shipping is very quick, too. Free shipping starts from 40€.

What is your impression of the brand BRUCKE?

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Just as a short reminder: All products mentioned and reviewed on this blog are of my personal opinions. This product here was sent to me for reviewing purpose by https://www.komawo.de which doesn’t influence me in providing my honest opinion on the products.

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asian cosmetics beauty Korean Smooch PR Sample review

Review: Huxley Secret Of Sahara Oil Light and More

28. February 2019

//PR SAMPLE / KBEAUTY / SKINCARE //

I love facial oils! For one reason, my skin type is quite dry. We have four seasons in Germany and winter tends to be quite cold and aggressive for drier skin types, but even normal or sensitive skin types will feel the effect of weather on their skin. Since our faces are exposed to the weather every day, it’s a good idea to help out with some oils to protect the skin barrier. One of the oils I’m using at the moment is the Huxley Secret Of Sahara Oil. Actually, the full name is “Huxley Secret Of Sahara Oil: “Light and More”. Thanks and a shout-out to Korean Smooch at this point for providing me with this facial oil for reviewing purpose.

Korean brand Huxley (헉슬리)

“Great things never came from comfort zones.” – That’s the motto of the Korean brand Huxley (헉슬리). And that motto already tells you so much about the brand. Huxley is a contemporary brand with the mission to find and benefit from ingredients that are characteristic of extreme environments. Their aim is to use these innovative ingredients and contribute to new skincare trends in that way (check out the English brand description >>here<<). By the way, did you know that the brand name actually refers to the author Aldous Huxley, who wrote the dystopia “Brave New World”?

Huxley Secret Of Sahara Oil

I must confess that I was drawn to the brand when I saw the first promotional images and I fell in love with the simple packaging design. Actually, you might find it boring, because it’s so plain, but somehow I was drawn to it. And then I read about the Secret of Sahara line and I was sold. As someone with dry skin, I can definitely see my skin to be as dry as the desert, and that name was almost shouting my name. I was lucky enough to get my hand on some travel sized samples of Huxley’s Secret of Sahara skincare line, including the Huxley Secret of Sahara Essence: Grab Water, Huxley Secret of Sahara Oil Essence: Essence-Like, Oil-Like, and the Huxley Secret of Sahara Oil: Light and More. Out of the three, I loved the oil so much, that I knew that I needed the full-sized bottle of the facial oil, in order to write a full review here.

Huxley Secret of Sahara Oil: Light and More

The Huxley Secret of Sahara Oil is described as followed on the brand’s page:

“A lightweight facial oil that contains prickly pear seed oil with outstanding moisturizing ability. It absorbs into the skin quickly, protects it from various stressors, and fortifies the skin”

It’s three features are: Firstly, it’s a non-greasy lightweight oil that does not leave an oily appearance. Second, it’s a fast absorbing, light and dry oil suitable for all skin types. Lastly, it provides rich moisture for dry skin. According to the description it can be used during day and night. It’s possible to use it plain or mixed with cream, foundation, or even with toner and used as mist. Best part, you can use it on your lips and hair as well.

Key Ingredient: Sahara Prickly Pear Seed Oil

The ingredients list of the Huxley Secret of Sahara Oil is surprisingly short. It contains the Sahara Prickly Pear Seed Oil as the key ingredient, an example for an ingredient that is observed in extreme environments since the Sahara Prickly Pear survives the extreme temperature variance of the Sahara of 50°C during the day. The seed oil is especially rich in linolic acid and therefore has a great moisturizing effect on the skin, but also contains other unsaturated lipids (oleic acid, palmitic acid, and stearic acid). Due to high contents in gamma-Tocopherol (Vitamin E) and flavonoids the seed oil has great anti-aging effects. It’s also rich in Vitamin K, by the way, which is great for brightening and cell-stimulating. Last, but not least, the Prickly Pear Seed Oil used in Huxley products is a certified organic ingredient with the Ecocert label.

Ingredients: Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Squalane, Opuntia Ficus-Indica Seed Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Crambe Abyssinica Seed Oil, Tocopheryl Acetate, Fragrance

Apart from the very exclusive key ingredient, the list contains other well-known oils, namely sunflower seed oil, and jojoba seed oil. Both are rich in unsaturated fatty acids and tocopherol, similar to the prickly pear seed oil. The last oil spotted is Abyssinian Seed Oil, or known as Crambe Abyssinian Seed Oil. The Abyssinian Seed Oil is rich in erucic acid, a monounsaturated omega-9 fatty acid, but also contains a good amount of oleic and linolic acid. The Huxley Secret of Sahara Oil is free from parabens, silicones, alcohols, sulfates, and is EU-Allergen free. The minimal ingredients list is also a benefit. You can check the full ingredients via SkinCarisma.

The Scent of a Spring Garden

Let’s talk about the scent: I’m not a scent sensitive person regarding skincare. On the contrary, I prefer aromatic scents, because it brings me joy while I’m applying my skincare. There are scents that I adore, like rose or green tea for example. For this oil, I absolutely had no expectation regarding the scent in any way. And that’s what surprised me most: the scent is intoxicating! The first time I used the Huxley Secret of Sahara trial set I was so positively surprised! It reminded me of my childhood, and of fields and flowers and playing outside. Now, after doing my research on the brand site I discovered, that the fragrance they use is a collaboration with LUZI, a traditional Swiss fragrance company. You can check out the fragrance pyramid on the official product description page I linked above. I read the first sentence of the fragrance description and I was amazed since it describes exactly the same image I had from using it for the first time: “The first impression is like stepping from inside a house into a lush green garden […]”.

My Impression

The texture of the oil is as you would expect from the description: it’s a liquid, clear oil with a light yellowish color. It absorbs very quickly and feels dry and not greasy upon application. Yet, you feel that it acts nourishing on the skin. I’m using 2-3 drops of the oil on my face and neck. Usually, I use it together with cream, but sometimes I use it even on its own, only followed by the sunscreen. I have used it on my lips, too, and sometimes I use my hands afterward on the end of my hair. I can only say, that this oil does everything I expect from a good facial oil and I have no complaints here to make. The bottle comes with a dropper cap and is easy to use. The volume is 30 ml, and it lasts a long time since you are only using a few drops each time. I also like the fact, that the bottle is made out of glass.

Many people imagine facial oils to bee too heavy. I assure you that this oil is lightweight, as it also states in the product description! Apart from providing hydration and nourishment it doesn’t leave the skin greasy at all and can be used day and night. Of course, this is my personal impression, and everyone has different needs regarding their skin, but I can say for myself that I can recommend using the Huxley Secret of Sahara Oil, and that I’m enjoying it in my skincare routine. I can also say, that I would repurchase this oil anytime.

I received the Huxley Secret Of Sahara Oil for reviewing purpose from Korean Smooch, an online retailer for Korean cosmetics products based in France. This shop might be especially interesting for people ordering from the EU. Delivery to Germany, for example, is free from 80€ purchase and takes approximately 3 to 5 days to arrive. And the best, no customs duties for EU as they ship from France! Check out the Huxley products they offer >>here<<.

Are you using any facial oils? Do you have a favorite brand or oil blend that you swear by? And what is your impression about the Korean brand Huxley?

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Huxley Secret Of Sahara Oil

Just as a short reminder: All products mentioned and reviewed on this blog are of my personal opinions. This product here was sent to me for reviewing purpose by https://www.korean-smooch.com/ which doesn’t influence me in providing my honest opinion on the products.

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