Have you ever wonder where to buy K-beauty and Asian beauty products? Many stores carry only a few or just selected brands, while Stylevana offers you a choice from affordable to high-end Asian beauty brands such as Sulwhasoo, Illiyoon, Unleashia, SK-II, Peach C, Shu Uemura, Kose, Hanyul, Etude House, Innisfree & more. I was able to test few products from Stylevana and I want to share with you a short introduction to products which I'm currently testing.
About Stylevana
Stylevana is an Asian Beauty store with a huge choice of skincare, makeup, body care and hair care products from Asian brands - you won't only find here K-beauty products even if the products I tested are all from Korea. Stylevana ships its products from Hong Kong to the US, Europe, Russia, Philippines, Singapore & more. I would recommend you to check their website on their own since due to Covid shipping cost & places where Stylevana (and other stores) ship might be different. What's great about Stylevana is Vana Reward Club and student discount. You can also use my promo code - INF10KHERB
Haruharu WONDER Black Rice Hyaluronic Anti-wrinkle Serum
Water, Glycerin, Lecithin, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Camellia Seed Oil, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Extract(10,000ppm), Phyllostachys Pubescens Shoot Bark Extract(2000ppm), Aspergillus Ferment, Hyaluronic Acid(2,000ppm), Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Cyclodextrin, Sclerotium Gum, C12-16 Alcohols, Palmitic Acid, Pseudoalteromonas Ferment Extract, Usnea Barbata (Lichen) Extract, Zanthoxylum Piperitum Fruit Extract, Pulsatilla Koreana Extract, Beta-Glucan, 1,2-Hexanediol, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Sterols, Behenyl Alcohol, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Glyceryl Stearate, Sodium Phytate, Tocopherol, Adenosine, Phenethyl Alcohol, Butylene Glycol, Ethanol, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Linalool* Limonene*
(*Natural essence oil and ingredients included)
Water is an ingredient that you can find in almost every product. Its purpose in products is easy - it's a solvent. Glycerin is one of the most popular humectants in skincare. There's a large number of myths around glycerin like it can clog your skin. It doesn't clog your pores, but too much glycerin can make a sticky layer on the epidermis and even make your skin dryer than before due to TEWL (Transepidermal Water Loss). Still, it's an ingredient that we want to see in formulas. Lecithin is an emollient. Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride is an emollient. It's a combination of coconut oil and glycerin that makes mild, gentle and delicate emollients. It thickens the formula, but it also makes skin feel smooth in touch. Camellia Seed Oil is popular in Japan oil, it improves the texture of the skin. Hydrogenated Lecithin is lecithin after surgery - it works as an emollient, but it is also used to encapsulate the active substance in liposomes (since they are supposed to help the active substance penetrate the skin deeper). Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil is an oil that you know from your kitchen. It's an emollient and a source of Vitamin E, linoleic acid and oleic acid. Even acne-prone skin can use it. Oryza Sativa (Rice) Extract (10,000ppm), a source of Vitamin E. It's an excellent absorbent. Aspergillus Ferment gives your skin moisture and calms the skin. Hyaluronic Acid (2,000ppm) is an ingredient that everyone knows, and lately, European brands seem to be obsessed with it. Hyaluronic Acid is an ingredient that naturally occurs in our skin, and people usually think it's a wonderful moisturizer - the answer to dry skin. We have to remember that HA in skincare comes in a few different forms - a low molecule or high molecule, the smaller the molecule is, the easier is the penetration of the product. Usually, low molecule HA costs more, and you can barely even see the product with HA and information on the molecular weight of the Hyaluronic Acid. Some people might get reactions to HA - my skin gets dehydrated when I use HA serums, sometimes I have to deal with redness or even acne after using HA serums, but acne, redness, skin sensitivity, and other reactions to the skin are personal. One product can work for you, but it won't work for your friend - same with ingredients. Panax Ginseng Root Extract is a Hanbang ingredient. Ginseng has a wide use - just like Mugwort, but I feel like from all herbs available, we appreciate ginseng the most. Ginseng is an antioxidant that can cost a lot, even skincare based on this ingredient might have a higher price than other skincare products. It improves blood circulation and nourishes the skin. The skincare series for mature skin is based on this powerful antioxidant and people believe that it can help with wrinkles. Cyclodextrin absorbs the bad scent of the formula. Sclerotium Gum is an emulsifier. C12-16 Alcohols is an emollient. Palmitic Acid is an emollient. Pseudoalteromonas Ferment Extract or Antarcticine is an ingredient that I met while testing Neogen Dermalogy Canadian Clay Pore Cleanser. You can see by its name - this ingredient is a ferment. The name Antarcticine has a deeper meaning - since it is derived from bacteria that live in the Antarctic Ocean. This type of bacteria was found in 1988. It prevents TEWL (transepidermal water loss), makes your skin smooth and it should help with the synthesis of collagen type I and IV (a fact for you, for the skin we need to focus on Type I and III, even if we know that in general there are 28 types of collagen or even more). What does that mean? It can help us with wrinkles and speed up wound healing. Usnea Barbata (Lichen) Extract, Zanthoxylum Piperitum Fruit Extract and Pulsatilla Koreana Extract are called EURO-NApre - a preservative. Beta-Glucan derives from yeast, mushroom (like Chaga or shiitake), seaweed or cereals (oat, wheat, barley). I don't know why, but Beta-Glucan to me smells like wine. Beta-glucan is a stunning humectant with soothing properties. It's great for sensitive skin. It feels like 1,2-Hexanediol is everywhere, and it's not a surprise. Even if it's a solvent, it's also a moisturizer. Glycine Soja (Soybean) Sterols are an emollient. Behenyl Alcohol is a fatty alcohol, but also a good emulsifier and emollient. Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oils is not an oil but a wax ester. It's an emollient and it is very similar to human sebum which makes it a great ingredient for the skin. Glyceryl Stearate is an ester of Glycerin and Stearic Acid. It's an emollient and emulsifier, and you can find it in oil in water formulas. It's a superb ingredient, but in some solutions, Glyceryl Stearate is problematic for me since it feels like it clogs my skin, but just because I'm not a fan of it, it doesn't mean your skin won't like it. Every skin is different. Tocopherol or Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant. It's a water-soluble ingredient. Some people think it's a natural preservative, but Tocopherol itself in formulas is not the best to preserve the product. It boosts UVB protection, and if you add Vitamin C - you'll get better effects of both vitamins. Adenosine is another elegant ingredient. It speeds up the healing process and repairs the skin barrier. It's ideal for inflamed skin, and it might have a positive effect on skin elasticity. Butylene Glycol is a moisturizer and solvent, but it's also alcohol. You see, not every alcohol in skincare is terrible. Some of them have positive effects on your skin - just like Butylene Glycol, which is a popular substance even in eco/green cosmetic products. Ethanol is nothing else than Alcohol. Usually, when people see Alcohol in skincare, they treat it as the worst thing that exists. The fact is that Alcohol has positive and negative meanings for our skin. It all depends on the amount of Alcohol. One of the main reasons why companies use this ingredient in their products is better penetration of the skin, thanks to Alcohol substances gets deeper than when it's used on its own. We can't deny that Alcohol kills microorganisms and bacteria. It's a long topic, but if you ever search for alcohol to sanitize your hands or makeup brushes - search for Isopropyl Alcohol in 40-70% solutions, they are more effective than 90% versions. What does Alcohol Denat in this formula mean? It means that this ingredient has some additional substances to stop people from drinking it. Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil is an essential oil that you might love or hate. It has some relaxing and antibacterial properties, but it can irritate your skin. Linalool and Limonene are scent ingredients.
Haruharu is a brand with an amazing aesthetic, this product got Red Dot Design Award in 2019. I have to admit I thought this serum is a hand cream because it looks like one. It's a bit too early for me to give you a full review of this product. Currently, Haruharu WONDER Black Rice Hyaluronic Anti-wrinkle Serum costs $15.69/50ml.
Buy: Haruharu WONDER Black Rice Hyaluronic Anti-wrinkle Serum
THANK YOU FARMER Sun Project Water Sun Cream
Water, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Homosalate, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Butylene Glycol, Octocrylene, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Cyclopentasiloxane, C20-22 Alkyl Phosphate, C20-22 Alcohols, Silica, 1,2-Hexanediol, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Nelumbo Nucifera Flower Water, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Lipids, Echium Plantagineum Seed Oil, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Althaea Rosea Flower Extract, Cardiospermum Halicacabum Flower/Leaf/Vine Extract, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Plukenetia Volubilis Seed Oil, Cetyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate, Tromethamine, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Octyldodecanol, Glyceryl Caprylate, Caprylyl Glycol, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Polyisobutene, Ethylhexylglycerin, Glyceryl Polymethacrylate, Cellulose Gum, Sorbitan Oleate, Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside, Fragrance
Water is an ingredient that you can find in almost every product. Its purpose in products is easy - it's a solvent. Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate or Octinoxate is a non-stable UVB sunscreen agent. Homosalate is a UVB protecting agent. Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate or Uvinul A Plus is a sunscreen agent that protects your skin from UVA. It has the same problem as Tinosorbs - you won't find it in Canada and the USA due to regulations in both countries. Does it mean that Uvinul A Plus is not good for you? No, it just means that some countries have different regulations and need more time before they allow the ingredient to use.
Butylene Glycol is a moisturizer and solvent, but it's also alcohol. You see, not every alcohol in skincare is terrible. Some of them have positive effects on your skin - just like Butylene Glycol, which is a popular substance even in eco/green cosmetic products. Octocrylene protects your skin from UVA & UVB. Dicaprylyl Carbonate is an emollient. It makes your skincare products easy to apply to the skin. Cyclopentasiloxane is not only an emollient but silicone. I'm aware that because of the internet, people treat silicones like the worst ingredients you can find in the product. But are they as bad as people say? No! Silicones are good for the skin since they work as occlusives - what they do is protect the skin from dehydration. Cyclopentasiloxane is a volatile silicone, which means that once you apply it to the surface of your skin, it will evaporate. It won't get absorbed by the skin, that's why you shouldn't be scared. If you're allergic then the good news is that the chance of getting allergic reactions to silicones is very rare. C20-22 Alkyl Phosphate is an emulsifier, while C20-22 Alcohols is a stabilizer. Silica is a thickener with magical properties for acne-prone and oily skin. It absorbs sebum, but at the same time, it can reflect the light to make your skin looking healthy. It feels like 1,2-Hexanediol is everywhere, and it's not a surprise. Even if it's a solvent, it's also a moisturizer. Portulaca Oleracea is a succulent, and plant used in Korean traditional medicine. It's a source of vitamin A, C and E, omega-3 acids and calcium. Portulaca Oleracea Extract is an antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties. It can help speed up the wound healing that's why people with acne-prone skin, sensitive skin and PIE should look up to this ingredient in products. Echium Plantagineum Seed Oil or Purple viper's bugloss is an emollient It leaves a delicate, protective film on the surface of the skin. Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract is a classic moisturizer with soothing properties. Some people might be allergic to aloe. My problem with aloe is that if you prepare aloe in a "wrong" way, it can sensitize the skin. Althaea Rosea Flower Extract or common hollyhock has soothing properties. Cardiospermum Halicacabum Flower/Leaf/Vine Extract helps with redness and inflammation. Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil is an oil that you know from your kitchen. It's an emollient and a source of Vitamin E, linoleic acid and oleic acid. Even acne-prone skin can use it. Plukenetia Volubilis Seed Oil or Sacha Inchi Oil - this oil is ideal for sensitive skin. Cetyl Alcohol is good alcohol and while writing that I reminded myself of an old joke about two drunk men drinking methanol and one said to the other one - we should drink faster, it's getting dark here - obviously, it's dark humour, because you are not supposed to drink methanol, so in this case, ethanol is also good alcohol. Cetyl alcohol is an oily emollient and emulsifier. It locks the water in your skin and prevents dehydration. Glyceryl Stearate is an emulsifier. Tromethamine is a pH adjuster. Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6 is a stabilizer. Octyldodecanol is an emulsifier. Glyceryl Caprylate is an oily emollient and emulsifier. It derivates from plants, that's why it's Ecocert approves it. Caprylyl Glycol is a moisturizer and an oily emollient. It leaves a delicate, protective film on your skin. But that's not all, Caprylyl Glycol is useful when you want to keep your product free from unfriendly stuff like microbes. Microcrystalline Cellulose is an absorbent, but it also can work as delicate scrub. Xanthan Gum is a thickener and stabilizer which you can find in food and skincare. Sodium Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer is a stabilizer typical for gel formulas. Ethylhexylglycerin is a preservative. It keeps products fresh. Cellulose Gum is a thickener. Sorbitan Oleate is an emulsifier. Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside is a natural surfactant.
A product which I already knew. It's a chemical sunscreen. Thank You Farmer is a brand focused on natural ingredients mixed with technology. Formulas created by this brand are loved by many people. Thank You Farmer Sun Project Water Sun Cream passed the tests and the SPF & UVA protection is just the same as declared by the brand. Thank You Farmer Sun Project Water Sun Cream doesn't leave a white cast. 50 ml of Thank You Farmer Sun Project Water Sun Cream costs $13.79.
Buy: Thank You Farmer Sun Project Water Sun Cream
Bellflower Blueberry Perfect Sunscreen
Water, Zinc Oxide (12.0%), Dibutyl Adipate, Propylheptyl Caprylate, Cyclohexasiloxane, Dipropylene Glycol, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Butyloctyl Salicylate, Polyglyceryl-4 Diisostearate/Polyhydroxystearate/Sebacate, Niacinamide, Caprylyl Methicone, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate (1.0%), Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine (1.0%), Ethylhexyl Triazone (1.0%), Polyglyceryl-3 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone, Vaccinium Angustifolium (Blueberry) Fruit Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Titanium Dioxide (0.80%), Disteardimonium Hectorite, Magnesium Sulfate, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, 1,2-Hexanediol, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Glyceryl Caprylate, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Adenosine
Water is an ingredient that you can find in almost every product. Its purpose in products is easy - it's a solvent. Zinc Oxide (12.0%) is an inorganic (aka mineral or physical, in chemistry inorganic means that Zinc Oxide has no Carbon atoms in its structure) sunscreen. Zinc Oxide has a wide range of UV protection. It protects your skin from UVB, UVA II and UVA I radiation. What else do we want? It leaves a white tint on the skin which many people might not like, but if you have rosacea or melasma, you should go for mineral sunscreens since it gives you even better protection. Mineral sunscreens are recommended for sensitive skin as well. Thanks to the colour, sometimes you can find cosmetic brands using Zinc Oxide as a pigment. Some brands like to add "nano" to the name of this ingredient, nano version means fewer problems with a white cast. Dibutyl Adipate is an oily emollient. It helps to form the film on the surface of your skin, and skincare brands like to use it with sunscreen agents. Propylheptyl Caprylate is an emollient. Cyclohexasiloxane is silicone, but it's also an emollient. This silicone is a volatile silicone. What does that mean? Previously, when I made a review of AHC Eye Cream some people said some inequitable words about me for promoting a cream with silicones and other ingredients they don't like to use due to problems with apps that help you analyze additives. Been then and I also was one of such people before due to my troubles with food (I can't eat processed food unless I want to feel like I'm dying an entire week). Silicones are the ultimate pick for the skin since they work as occlusives - what they do is protect the skin from dehydration. Volatile silicones are evaporating from the epidermis. They won't get absorbed by the skin, that's why you shouldn't be scared. If you're hypersensitive, then the good news is that the chance of getting allergic reactions to silicones is ultra-tiny! Still, every skin reacts differently. I don't want to force you to use products with silicones - we live in free countries. No one decides for you what you should use. Dipropylene Glycol is a solvent. Dicaprylyl Carbonate is an emollient. It makes your skincare products easy to apply to the skin. Butyloctyl Salicylate is a solvent. Usually, it doesn't come alone. It brings some sunscreen agents to the party and makes sunscreen agents such as Avobenzone better. There's one other positive thing about Butyloctyl Salicylate, it makes the formula easy to spread that's why you can find it in some makeup formulas as well. I won't be surprised if you'll react with the words "what the f*** is going on with this ingredient after you see the name of it. Polyglyceryl-4 Diisostearate/Polyhydroxystearate/Sebacate might look long and complicated. It's just an emulsifier, and it helps with water in oil formulas. Niacinamide is a miracle ingredient. It does lots of great work. Do you have problems with dark spots? Try Niacinamide! Acne? Niacinamide will be an ideal pick for you too! Maybe you've got issues with the skin barrier? Solve it with Niacinamide! Wrinkles? You might want to try Niacinamide as well. Sensitive skin might find Niacinamide a bit problematic when it's mixed with Vitamin C or used in the same routine as Vitamin C. I can't deny Niacinamide is a skincare treasure!
Caprylyl Methicone is an emollient and a volatile silicone. Silicones are good for the skin since they work as occlusives - what they do is protect the skin from dehydration. Volatile silicones are evaporating from the skin, they won't get absorbed by the skin, that's why you shouldn't be scared. If you're allergic then the good news is that the chance of getting allergic reactions to silicones is ultra-tiny! Still, every skin reacts differently that's why it's better to test on your own what ingredient works better for you and then decide if you want it in your makeup (or skincare) or not. Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate (1.0%) or Uvinul A Plus is a sunscreen agent that protects your skin from UVA. It has the same problem as Tinosorbs - you won't find it in Canada and the USA due to regulations in both countries. Does it mean that Uvinul A Plus is not good for you? No, it just means that some countries have different regulations and need more time before they allow the ingredient to use. Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine (1.0%) is an ingredient that gained popularity lately. You might hear of it as Tinosorb S. It's a sunscreen agent that covers a larger range of UV radiation than other ingredients. Tinosorb S protects you from UVA and UVB radiation, which makes it an ideal sun protector. It's a stable ingredient so it doesn't need any additional substance, but you won't see it in the US. It can't be sold as a sunscreen in the US that's why brands like Krave decided to call their sunscreens day fluid, sun shield, daily moisturizer, etc. It's quite a new ingredient, but it is considered to be one of the safest sunscreen agents. Ethylhexyl Triazone (1.0%) or Uvinul T 150 is one of the latest sunscreen agents available. It's a stable ingredient that protects your skin from UVB radiation. Similar to Tinosorb S, Uvinul T 150 is not allowed to use a sunscreen agent in the US. Polyglyceryl-3 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone is a silicone, and it works as an emulsifier. Should you be scared of it? Not at all! Silicones are not as horrible as people make them. Vaccinium Angustifolium (Blueberry) Fruit Extract is a natural antioxidant, a source of anthocyanins. Centella Asiatica Extract is an ingredient that stays in the skincare trend. Lots of ingredients used in skincare have a long history of use in medicine. This ingredient isn't different because Centella is a part of Ayurveda, a traditional (or if you prefer - alternative) medicine used by people for ages. Nowadays we associate it with India. Centella is a herb primarily applied in skincare for its healing properties. It speeds up the healing process, and that's why acne-prone skin loves it. If you're pregnant or you plan pregnancy, then try to find body care products with Centella Asiatica because it can have a valuable meaning on skin elasticity as well as stretch marks. Sodium Hyaluronate is a salt form of a popular Natural Moisturizing Factor - Hyaluronic Acid. Titanium Dioxide (0.80%) is a mineral sunscreen. It protects your skin from UVB and UVA (II) radiation. Usually, Titanium Dioxide leaves a white cast on the epidermis. Many people with sensitive skin prefer to use Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide instead of organic sunscreen (organic sunscreen agents contain carbon, inorganic sunscreens aka mineral sunscreens doesn't contain carbon). The nano version of Titanium Dioxide fixes the problem with the white cast (not entirely, but you can spot the difference). You might not know that, but Titanium Dioxide is a super useful colourant and sunscreen agent. If you have melasma, you want this ingredient in your sunscreen and makeup. It gives your skin a "barrier" that protects your skin from UV radiation. Have you ever seen a thickener made out of hectorite - a white clay? Meet Disteardimonium Hectorite - it works as a stabilizer, gives your skin a sheer look, and in sunscreen formulas, it makes your UV protection even better. Magnesium Sulfate or Epsom Salt is an ingredient with a history. The name Epsom Salt comes from the city Epsom in England, but you can call it bath salt as well. It works as a stabilizer. Triethoxycaprylylsilane helps to spread pigment evenly. It feels like 1,2-Hexanediol is everywhere, and it's not a surprise. Even if it's a solvent, it's also a moisturizer. Polymethylsilsesquioxane is quite an unusual ingredient. It's a powder and it gives the skin silky finishing. Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer absorbs the sebum. Glyceryl Caprylate is an oily emollient and emulsifier. It derivates from plants, that's why it's Ecocert approves it. Caprylyl Glycol is a moisturizer and an oily emollient. It leaves a delicate, protective film on your skin. But that's not all, Caprylyl Glycol is useful when you want to keep your product free from unfriendly stuff like microbes. Ethylhexylglycerin is a preservative. It keeps products fresh. Adenosine is another elegant ingredient. It speeds up the healing process and repairs the skin barrier. It's ideal for inflamed skin, and it might have a positive effect on skin elasticity.
Bellflower is a South Korean brand. The name of the brand can be translated from the flower language as sincerity or gratitude. Bellflower means Bellflower is focused on naturalism - it's a green brand with a clear mission - giving the best treatment to skin problems while removing artificial scents and colourants from the products. I was surprised that Bellflower Blueberry Perfect Sunscreen is a hybrid sunscreen between chemical & physical sunscreen agents, but I think the brand did a great choice since at least on my skin white cast left by Bellflower Blueberry Perfect Sunscreen is not visible. The formula is smooth and nice for the skin. Bellflower Blueberry Perfect Sunscreen costs $11.89/50ml.
Buy: Bellflower Blueberry Perfect Sunscreen
Haruharu WONDER Maqui Berry Anti-Oxidant Cream
Water, Propanediol, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Camellia Japonica Seed Oil, Glycerin, Niacinamide, 1,2-Hexanediol, Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, Cyclopentasiloxane, Cyclohexasiloxane, Lactobacillus Ferment, Aristotelia Chilensis Fruit Extract, Brown Rice Vinegar, Betaine, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Vaccinium Angustifolium (Blueberry) Fruit Juice, Sclerotium Gum, Xanthan Gum, Hyaluronic Acid, Caprylyl Glycol, Tocopherol, Adenosine, Benzyl Salicylate, Citral, Ethyl Linalool, Tetramethyl Acetyloctahydronaphthalenes, Methyldihydrojasmonate, Disodium EDTA
Water is an ingredient that you can find in almost every product. Its purpose in products is easy - it's a solvent. Propanediol is a solvent with moisturizing properties. Similar to Cyclohexasiloxane, Propylene Glycol is an ingredient that some people try to avoid. You're most likely to see Propanediol instead of Propylene Glycol in an organic skincare product, and the reason for this change is simple. Ecocert recommends it. Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil is an oil that you know from your kitchen. It's an emollient and a source of Vitamin E, linoleic acid and oleic acid. Even acne-prone skin can use it. Camellia Japonica Seed Oil is popular in Japan oil, it improves the texture of the skin. Glycerin is one of the most popular humectants in skincare. There's a large number of myths around glycerin like it can clog your skin. It doesn't clog your pores, but too much glycerin can make a sticky layer on the epidermis and even make your skin dryer than before due to TEWL (Transepidermal Water Loss). Still, it's an ingredient that we want to see in formulas. Niacinamide is a miracle ingredient. It does lots of great work. Do you have problems with dark spots? Try Niacinamide! Acne? Niacinamide will be an ideal pick for you too! Maybe you've got issues with the skin barrier? Solve it with Niacinamide! Wrinkles? You might want to try Niacinamide as well. Sensitive skin might find Niacinamide a bit problematic when it's mixed with Vitamin C or used in the same routine as Vitamin C. I can't deny Niacinamide is a skincare treasure! It feels like 1,2-Hexanediol is everywhere, and it's not a surprise. Even if it's a solvent, it's also a moisturizer. Cetearyl Olivate and Sorbitan Olivate are nothing else than Olivem 1000. It's a natural emulsifier. Cyclopentasiloxane is not only an emollient but silicone. I'm aware that because of the internet, people treat silicones like the worst ingredients you can find in the product. But are they as bad as people say? No! Silicones are good for the skin since they work as occlusives - what they do is protect the skin from dehydration. Cyclopentasiloxane is a volatile silicone, which means that once you apply it to the surface of your skin, it will evaporate. It won't get absorbed by the skin, that's why you shouldn't be scared. If you're allergic then the good news is that the chance of getting allergic reactions to silicones is very rare. Cyclohexasiloxane is silicone, but it's also an emollient. This silicone is a volatile silicone. What does that mean? Previously, when I made a review of AHC Eye Cream some people said some inequitable words about me for promoting a cream with silicones and other ingredients they don't like to use due to problems with apps that help you analyze additives. Been then and I also was one of such people before due to my troubles with food (I can't eat processed food unless I want to feel like I'm dying an entire week). Silicones are the ultimate pick for the skin since they work as occlusives - what they do is protect the skin from dehydration. Volatile silicones are evaporating from the epidermis. They won't get absorbed by the skin, that's why you shouldn't be scared. If you're hypersensitive, then the good news is that the chance of getting allergic reactions to silicones is ultra-tiny! Still, every skin reacts differently. I don't want to force you to use products with silicones - we live in free countries. No one decides for you what you should use. Lactobacillus Ferment is an ingredient that a few years ago was a cult ingredient. Nowadays, I feel like its popularity decreased after people started to self-diagnose themselves with so-called fungal acne. If you think that your skin problem might be related to Malassezia then instead of self-diagnose, visit a dermatologist. It's a probiotic, ideal for sensitive skin, but it also helps with acne. It makes your skin barrier stronger. Aristotelia Chilensis Fruit Extract or Maqui Berry Extract, it's an edible berry, but in skincare, it's a source of polyphenols and flavonoids, it works as an antioxidant. It protects your skin from damage created by UV radiation, pollution and the environment. Brown Rice Vinegar is an unusual ingredient, but it's supposed to moisturize your skin. Betaine derives from sugar beets. It's an amino acid that keeps your skin moist, and you might want to use it in your haircare routine. Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter has a wide range of use - people use it to prepare dishes, in medicine, but also cosmetics. It's an emollient that all skin types should love, but oily skin might have a tiny problem with it. It has mild UV protection (around SPF 3) so it shouldn't be used as sunscreen. It's great for dry skin and during the winter to protect the skin since it leaves a film on the surface of the skin. It's also a source of vitamins such as Vitamin E and Vitamin A. Vitellaria Paradoxa trees aka shea butter trees can be found in Africa that's why it is so important to use shea butter from brands with Fairtrade certification. Vaccinium Angustifolium (Blueberry) Fruit Juice is an antioxidant. Sclerotium Gum is an emulsifier. Xanthan Gum is a thickener and stabilizer which you can find in food and skincare. Hyaluronic Acid is an ingredient that everyone knows, and lately, European brands seem to be obsessed with it. Hyaluronic Acid is an ingredient that naturally occurs in our skin, and people usually think it's a wonderful moisturizer - the answer to dry skin. We have to remember that HA in skincare comes in a few different forms - a low molecule or high molecule, the smaller the molecule is, the easier is the penetration of the product. Usually, low molecule HA costs more, and you can barely even see the product with HA and information on the molecular weight of the Hyaluronic Acid. Some people might get reactions to HA - my skin gets dehydrated when I use HA serums, sometimes I have to deal with redness or even acne after using HA serums, but acne, redness, skin sensitivity, and other reactions to the skin are personal. One product can work for you, but it won't work for your friend - same with ingredients.
Caprylyl Glycol is a moisturizer and an oily emollient. It leaves a delicate, protective film on your skin. But that's not all, Caprylyl Glycol is useful when you want to keep your product free from unfriendly stuff like microbes. Tocopherol or Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant. It's a water-soluble ingredient. Some people think it's a natural preservative, but Tocopherol itself in formulas is not the best to preserve the product. It boosts UVB protection, and if you add Vitamin C - you'll get better effects of both vitamins. Adenosine is another elegant ingredient. It speeds up the healing process and repairs the skin barrier. It's ideal for inflamed skin, and it might have a positive effect on skin elasticity. Benzyl Salicylate is a scent ingredient, some people can have an allergic reaction to this substance. Citral is a lemon scent in a product, it can be irritating for the skin. Ethyl Linalool is a scent ingredient. Tetramethyl Acetyloctahydronaphthalenes and Methyldihydrojasmonate are scent ingredients. Disodium EDTA is a synthetic stabilizer and preservative. It helps with the viscosity of the product.
Another Haruharu product I'm testing. This one has a slightly purple shade and a scent. I'm a fan of antioxidants, but I'm not sure how I feel about it. You might remember Haruharu WONDER Maqui Berry Anti-Oxidant Cream because the bigger version is sold in a cup that looks like a coffee cup, but I prefer tube. Haruharu WONDER Maqui Berry Anti-Oxidant Cream costs $11.49/30g.
Buy: Haruharu WONDER Maqui Berry Anti-Oxidant Cream
Farm Stay Collagen Water Full Moist Rolling Eye Serum
Water, Glycereth-26, Glycerin, Dimethicone, Dipropylene Glycol, Niacinamide, Pentaerythrityl Tetraisostearate, Sea Water, Trehalose, Cyclopentasiloxane, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Squalane, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Collagen, Vegetable Amino Acids, Oat Amino Acids, Butylene Glycol, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Dimethiconol, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Polysorbate 60, Carbomer, Arginine, Ethylhexylglycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Hydroxyacetophenone, Adenosine, Disodium EDTA, Fragrance
Water is an ingredient that you can find in almost every product. Its purpose in products is easy - it's a solvent. Glycereth-26 is an ingredient related to Glycerin. It's an emollient with moisturizing properties. Glycerin is one of the most popular humectants in skincare. There's a large number of myths around glycerin like it can clog your skin. It doesn't clog your pores, but too much glycerin can make a sticky layer on the epidermis and even make your skin dryer than before due to TEWL (Transepidermal Water Loss). Still, it's an ingredient that we want to see in formulas. Dimethicone is a dry emollient. Some people might find clogging, but it keeps your skin moist and protect it from dehydration. It has a positive effect on the skin barrier by creating occlusion, and it helps with scars. It can also smooth your skin visually. It's also silicone that's why some people like to talk badly about Dimethicone just because of this fact, but there's no reason to be frightened. It gives your skin an occlusive film, but it doesn't suffocate your skin. We need occlusion to prevent water from TEWL (Transepidermal Water Loss) - to keep the skin moist. It protects your hair from dehydration and weather, and it makes it easier to brush your hair. Dipropylene Glycol is a solvent. Niacinamide is a miracle ingredient. It does lots of great work. Do you have problems with dark spots? Try Niacinamide! Acne? Niacinamide will be an ideal pick for you too! Maybe you've got issues with the skin barrier? Solve it with Niacinamide! Wrinkles? You might want to try Niacinamide as well. Sensitive skin might find Niacinamide a bit problematic when it's mixed with Vitamin C or used in the same routine as Vitamin C. I can't deny Niacinamide is a skincare treasure! Pentaerythrityl Tetraisostearate is an emollient and an emulsifier. It leaves a delicate film on the skin. We can say that this formula gives your skin a pleasant glass/honey effect. Trehalose is sugar and another moisturizer in this formula. Cyclopentasiloxane is not only an emollient but silicone. I'm aware that because of the internet, people treat silicones like the worst ingredients you can find in the product. But are they as bad as people say? No! Silicones are good for the skin since they work as occlusives - what they do is protect the skin from dehydration. Cyclopentasiloxane is a volatile silicone, which means that once you apply it to the surface of your skin, it will evaporate. It won't get absorbed by the skin, that's why you shouldn't be scared. If you're allergic then the good news is that the chance of getting allergic reactions to silicones is very rare. Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer is a synthetic polymer. It thickens the formula. Squalane is an ingredient that I believe everyone should enjoy. In nature, Squalane occurs in human sebum, and it protects the skin from dehydration. Sadly, with age, the amount of Squalane in sebum decreases. Usually, Squalane in your skincare products comes from olives or sugar cane. It's a light, stable oil with a single bond (squalENE has double bonds, and both these ingredients shouldn't be mistaken). It has no colour and scent. It's perfect for sensitive skin and dehydrated skin since it strengths the lipid barrier. It speeds up the healing process, and it won't clog your skin. Sodium Hyaluronate is a salt form of a popular Natural Moisturizing Factor - Hyaluronic Acid. Hydrolyzed Collagen is a smaller version of collagen. In general, collagen works as a film ingredient, because its molecules are too big to get through the skin layers, that's why we use Vitamin C & other ingredients to boost collagen production. Both - regular & hydrolyzed versions are great moisturizers. Butylene Glycol is a moisturizer and solvent, but it's also alcohol. You see, not every alcohol in skincare is terrible. Some of them have positive effects on your skin - just like Butylene Glycol, which is a popular substance even in eco/green cosmetic products. Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer is a powder that absorbs sebum. You can usually find it in makeup for its flawless finishing. Dimethiconol is a light emollient. You can find it in makeup products because it makes your skin look soft and shiny (in a positive way). Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer or Sepinov EMT 10 is a thickener with emulsifying properties. Polysorbate 60 is an emulsifier. Carbomer is a thickener and stabilizer. You can often see it in gel formulas. Arginine is an amino acid, a moisturizer with antioxidant properties. Ethylhexylglycerin is a preservative. It keeps products fresh. It feels like 1,2-Hexanediol is everywhere, and it's not a surprise. Even if it's a solvent, it's also a moisturizer. Hydroxyacetophenone reminds me of acetone than antioxidant, but it is an antioxidant that keeps our products fresh and protects ingredients from oxidation. Adenosine is another elegant ingredient. It speeds up the healing process and repairs the skin barrier. It's ideal for inflamed skin, and it might have a positive effect on skin elasticity. Disodium EDTA is a synthetic stabilizer and preservative. It helps with the viscosity of the product. Fragrance gives the scent to the composition.
If you're searching for an eye cream that will make your eye massage easier then Farm Stay Collagen Water Full Moist Rolling Eye Serum is an obvious choice. Farm Stay Collagen Water Full Moist Rolling Eye Serum has a tip with tiny balls to evenly apply and delicately massage your eye area. The tube costs $6.09/25ml
Buy: Farm Stay Collagen Water Full Moist Rolling Eye Serum
Pyunkang Yul Essence Toner
Astragalus Membranaceus Root Extract, 1,2-Hexanediol, Butylene Glycol, Bis-Peg-18 Methyl Ether Dimethyl Silane, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Carbomer, Arginine
Astragalus Membranaceus Root Extract is an ingredient used in Traditional Chinese Medicine, you can find it under names like Huang Qi/Huangqi, Hwanggi or milk vetch. It's a source of saponins, it has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It feels like 1,2-Hexanediol is everywhere, and it's not a surprise. Even if it's a solvent, it's also a moisturizer. Butylene Glycol is a moisturizer and solvent, but it's also alcohol. You see, not every alcohol in skincare is terrible. Some of them have positive effects on your skin - just like Butylene Glycol, which is a popular substance even in eco/green cosmetic products. Bis-Peg-18 Methyl Ether Dimethyl Silane - it's an emollient and silicone. Hydroxyethylcellulose is a thickener. Carbomer is a thickener and stabilizer. You can often see it in gel formulas. Arginine is an amino acid, a moisturizer with antioxidant properties.
The first time I've heard about Pyunkang Yul was while I was watching Joan Day's vlogs. Pyunkang Yul is a part of the Pyunkang Oriental Medicine Clinic. From what I found, this clinic's speciality is atopic skin diseases. It's a cruelty-free brand with products based on hanbang - traditional Korean medicine, something I love as a person. All the products created by Pyunkang Yul have ingredients ideal for sensitive skin. You won't find too many ingredients in these products, because simple solutions are sometimes the best. Pyunkang Yul Essence Toner is a great choice for everyone since the formula is simple. 100ml bottle costs $9.89.
Buy: Pyunkang Yul Essence Toner
BEAUTY OF JOSEON x STYLEVANA Clear Skin Set
Beauty Of Joseon Bubble Toner: Green Plum + AHA
Water, Prunus Mume Fruit Water, Glycolic Acid, Dipropylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Pentylene Glycol, Chlorella Vulgaris Extract, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Chondrus Crispus Extract, Sugarcane Extract, Rice Bran Water, Honey Extract, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract, Glycerin, Propanediol, Tromethamine, Sodium PCA, Glucose, C12-14 Pareth-12, Butylene Glycol, Fructooligosaccharides, Fructose, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Phytate, Tocopherol, Ethyl Hexanediol
Water is an ingredient that you can find in almost every product. Its purpose in products is easy - it's a solvent. Prunus Mume Fruit Water is nothing else than Ume hydrosol. Glycolic Acid is probably the most intense chemical exfoliator from the AHA group because it's a lightweight acid. What does that mean? It can penetrate your skin effortlessly than other AHA acids. Brands obtain it from sugar cane, sugar beets or cantaloupe. It's a water-soluble acid, but alcohol is exceptional too. Depends on concentration, Glycolic Acid can be a weak peel and a good moisturizer or a heavy peel. It increases the synthesis of glycosaminoglycans - they keep your skin hydrated. Glycolic Acid removes the dead cells from your skin to keep it fresh, bright and soft. It removes dark spots and helps with wrinkles because it can boost collagen production. It can even make your skin thicker and improve blood circulation in the skin. It works better at a low pH, and not every person will like it. Sensitive skin might have problems with Glycolic Acid - usually Glycolic Acid hurts my skin even in low concentrations. It's an active ingredient that might cause purging - it's like a breakout after using a new product, after a few days of using Glycolic Acid - purging should end. Sensitive skin might prefer AHA cousin - PHA. We shouldn't use Glycolic Acid during the summer and if you do Glycolic Acid treatments - sunscreen is a must! Unless you want to see more dark spots on your skin since your skin after a chemical peel doesn't contain a layer of dead skin, so it's more vulnerable to damage from the environment like UVB & UVA. Dipropylene Glycol is a solvent. It feels like 1,2-Hexanediol is everywhere, and it's not a surprise. Even if it's a solvent, it's also a moisturizer. Pentylene Glycol is a humectant with antimicrobial properties. Chlorella Vulgaris Extract is an algae extract, it has moisturizing properties. Portulaca Oleracea is a succulent, and plant used in Korean traditional medicine. It's a source of vitamin A, C and E, omega-3 acids and calcium. Portulaca Oleracea Extract is an antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties. It can help speed up the wound healing that's why people with acne-prone skin, sensitive skin and PIE should look up to this ingredient in products. Chondrus Crispus Extractor - Red Edible Seaweed is a natural ingredient. It's a vegan-friendly alternative to gelatin. Brands are using Carrageenan as a thickener. It helps with blood circulation that's why it's a good choice for body care products and anti-aging products. Honey Extract is a moisturizer. Panax Ginseng Root Extract is a Hanbang ingredient. Ginseng has a wide use - just like Mugwort, but I feel like from all herbs available, we appreciate ginseng the most. Ginseng is an antioxidant that can cost a lot, even skincare based on this ingredient might have a higher price than other skincare products. It improves blood circulation and nourishes the skin. The skincare series for mature skin is based on this powerful antioxidant and people believe that it can help with wrinkles. Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract is an antioxidant. Glycerin is one of the most popular humectants in skincare. There's a large number of myths around glycerin like it can clog your skin. It doesn't clog your pores, but too much glycerin can make a sticky layer on the epidermis and even make your skin dryer than before due to TEWL (Transepidermal Water Loss). Still, it's an ingredient that we want to see in formulas. Propanediol is a solvent with moisturizing properties. Similar to Cyclohexasiloxane, Propylene Glycol is an ingredient that some people try to avoid. You're most likely to see Propanediol instead of Propylene Glycol in an organic skincare product, and the reason for this change is simple. Ecocert recommends it. Tromethamine helps with the pH, to make sure your product has an ideal pH. Sodium PCA stands for Sodium Pyrrolidone Carboxylic Acid, and it's a humectant. It leaves a hydrating film on your skin that prevents transepidermal water loss (TEWL). Sodium PCA naturally occurs in the skin. Glucose is a sugar that you should know, but maybe not as a skincare ingredient. When I think of glucose, I think of diabetes. People with this disorder have problems with glucose levels in the blood, and they need to control it. You might not even know how many people around you - not only elders, have to deal with different types of diabetes. Glucose in skincare works as a humectant. C12-14 Pareth-12 is an emulsifier and surfactant, it makes a weak foam. Butylene Glycol is a moisturizer and solvent, but it's also alcohol. You see, not every alcohol in skincare is terrible. Some of them have positive effects on your skin - just like Butylene Glycol, which is a popular substance even in eco/green cosmetic products. Fructooligosaccharides is an ingredient that I didn't assume it's a thing in skincare. Fructooligosaccharides is moisturizing prebiotic. Fructose is a sugar, so it's nothing else than a moisturizing substance. Caprylyl Glycol is a moisturizer and an oily emollient. It leaves a delicate, protective film on your skin. But that's not all, Caprylyl Glycol is useful when you want to keep your product free from unfriendly stuff like microbes. Ethylhexylglycerin is a preservative. It keeps products fresh. Tocopherol or Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant. It's a water-soluble ingredient. Some people think it's a natural preservative, but Tocopherol itself in formulas is not the best to preserve the product. It boosts UVB protection, and if you add Vitamin C - you'll get better effects of both vitamins. Ethyl Hexanediol is a solvent.
Beauty of Joseon Calming Serum: Green Tea+Panthenol
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Water, Water, Methylpropanediol, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Centella Asiatica Extract, Panthenol, Pentylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Chondrus Crispus Extract, Saccharum Officinarum (Sugarcane) Extract, Artemisia Vulgaris Extract, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Extract, Propolis Extract, Diethoxyethyl Succinate, Betaine, Octanediol, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Allantoin, Sodium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Tromethamine, Ethylhexylglycerin, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Polyquaternium-51, Glyceryl Acrylate/Acrylic Acid Copolymer, Sodium Phytate, Dextrin, Tocopherol
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Water is a positive ingredient. Green tea is a source of polyphenols (EGCG), flavonoids and catechins. Water is an ingredient that you can find in almost every product. Its purpose in products is easy - it's a solvent. Methylpropanediol is a solvent with antimicrobial properties. It's a synthetic ingredient that works even with the most stubborn substances. Glycerin is one of the most popular humectants in skincare. There's a large number of myths around glycerin like it can clog your skin. It doesn't clog your pores, but too much glycerin can make a sticky layer on the epidermis and even make your skin dryer than before due to TEWL (Transepidermal Water Loss). Still, it's an ingredient that we want to see in formulas. Butylene Glycol is a moisturizer and solvent, but it's also alcohol. You see, not every alcohol in skincare is terrible. Some of them have positive effects on your skin - just like Butylene Glycol, which is a popular substance even in eco/green cosmetic products. Centella Asiatica Extract is an ingredient that stays in the skincare trend. Lots of ingredients used in skincare have a long history of use in medicine. This ingredient isn't different because Centella is a part of Ayurveda, a traditional (or if you prefer - alternative) medicine used by people for ages. Nowadays we associate it with India. Centella is a herb primarily applied in skincare for its healing properties. It speeds up the healing process, and that's why acne-prone skin loves it. If you're pregnant or you plan pregnancy, then try to find body care products with Centella Asiatica because it can have a valuable meaning on skin elasticity as well as stretch marks. Panthenol is nothing else than Pro-vitamin B5, a soothing moisturizer with positive meaning to the skin barrier. It speeds up the healing process. Pentylene Glycol is a humectant with antimicrobial properties. It feels like 1,2-Hexanediol is everywhere, and it's not a surprise. Even if it's a solvent, it's also a moisturizer. Saccharum Officinarum (Sugarcane) Extract has moisturizing properties. Saccharum Officinarum is used to produce sugar and this species is typical for New Guinea. It has other properties which you might like, I know Sugar Cane mostly as a brightening ingredient. Artemisia Vulgaris Extract or common mugwort, but is also known as sailor's tobacco, St. John's plant or riverside woodworm. This ingredient can be calming, but it also has antimicrobial properties. You probably know Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract as Neem. It's a plant typical for India, Sri Lanka or Pakistan. Neem comes from Ayurveda, and it's told to have antiseptic, antibacterial and antifungal properties. In this case, we got both flower & leaf extracts of Neem. Sodium Hyaluronate is a salt form of a popular Natural Moisturizing Factor - Hyaluronic Acid. Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Extract is an extract derived from cocoa's seeds and bark. It can be moisturizing. I guess two years ago Propolis Extract was super popular in skincare. People use Propolis for thousands of years, it has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. In my case, Propolis helps me with acne, but Propolis ampoules are good if you want to get the honey skin look. If you're allergic to bees then I recommend you avoid this ingredient but if bees are not a problem for you - it's an ingredient that can change your skincare game. Diethoxyethyl Succinate is a solvent. Betaine derives from sugar beets. It's an amino acid that keeps your skin moist, and you might want to use it in your haircare routine. Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer is a carbomer's distant family. It works as a stabilizer and thickener. Allantoin is a powerful ingredient in skincare, and I think we have all know it since the early days. My family didn't imagine my childhood without this cream. Allantoin derives from comfrey, and it has soothing properties, but it also speeds up the healing process, which makes it ideal for acne-prone skin and sensitive skin. Tromethamine helps with the pH, to make sure your product has an ideal pH. Ethylhexylglycerin is a preservative. It keeps products fresh. I like Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate more in skincare than as food since this ingredient is related to your least favourite candy, but a very soothing plant - Licorice! It works as an anti-inflammatory ingredient, but it has a positive meaning for acne-prone skin. In general, Licorice can brighten your skin and help with acne. I wouldn't expect a lot from Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, but I think that adding it to this formula was a great move. Polyquaternium-51 is an ingredient that I think I mostly see in hair care products. It's a humectant. Dextrin is an ingredient that we usually associate with moisture. Tocopherol or Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant. It's a water-soluble ingredient. Some people think it's a natural preservative, but Tocopherol itself in formulas is not the best to preserve the product. It boosts UVB protection, and if you add Vitamin C - you'll get better effects of both vitamins.
Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum: Propolis + Niacinamide
Propolis Extract, Dipropylene Glycol, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Water, Niacinamide, 1,2-Hexanediol, Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract, Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Extract, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract, Corallina Officinalis Extract, Lotus Corniculatus Seed Extract, Calophyllum Inophyllum Seed Oil, Betaine Salicylate, Sodium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Tham, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Dextrin, Pentylene Glycol, Octanediol, Tocopherol, Xanthan Gum, Carbomer
I guess two years ago Propolis Extract was super popular in skincare. People use Propolis for thousands of years, it has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. In my case, Propolis helps me with acne, but Propolis ampoules are good if you want to get the honey skin look. If you're allergic to bees then I recommend you avoid this ingredient but if bees are not a problem for you - it's an ingredient that can change your skincare game. Dipropylene Glycol is a solvent. Glycerin is one of the most popular humectants in skincare. There's a large number of myths around glycerin like it can clog your skin. It doesn't clog your pores, but too much glycerin can make a sticky layer on the epidermis and even make your skin dryer than before due to TEWL (Transepidermal Water Loss). Still, it's an ingredient that we want to see in formulas. Butylene Glycol is a moisturizer and solvent, but it's also alcohol. You see, not every alcohol in skincare is terrible. Some of them have positive effects on your skin - just like Butylene Glycol, which is a popular substance even in eco/green cosmetic products. Water is an ingredient that you can find in almost every product. Its purpose in products is easy - it's a solvent. Niacinamide is a miracle ingredient. It does lots of great work. Do you have problems with dark spots? Try Niacinamide! Acne? Niacinamide will be an ideal pick for you too! Maybe you've got issues with the skin barrier? Solve it with Niacinamide! Wrinkles? You might want to try Niacinamide as well. Sensitive skin might find Niacinamide a bit problematic when it's mixed with Vitamin C or used in the same routine as Vitamin C. I can't deny Niacinamide is a skincare treasure! It feels like 1,2-Hexanediol is everywhere, and it's not a surprise. Even if it's a solvent, it's also a moisturizer. Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract and Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract are known as Neem. It's a plant typical for India, Sri Lanka or Pakistan. Neem comes from Ayurveda, and it's told to have antiseptic, antibacterial and antifungal properties, it can be used as a pigment. Sodium Hyaluronate is a salt form of a popular Natural Moisturizing Factor - Hyaluronic Acid. Turmeric in products for acne skin is not a surprise for me, but what does Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract do in other products? Turmeric has wide use in traditional medicine - not only Ayurveda but Chinese Traditional Medicine. It's an antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties, that's why it works so good on acne. It might help with pigmentation, but if you have post-acne inflammation, then using soothing ingredients and substances that speed up wound healing helps with the redness left after acne. Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract aka Holy Basil is a source of eugenol, linalool, rosmarinic acid, oleanolic acid, ursolic acid, rosmarinic acid and more. It's another ingredient used in traditional medicine. In skincare products, Holy Basil has anti-inflammatory effects. Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Extract is an extract derived from cocoa's seeds and bark. It can be moisturizing. Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Extract is an extract form of tea tree. You probably know Tea Tree as an essential oil ingredient. EO's are controversial because they are not as safe as people think. Essential oils are similar to Alcohol, some are positive and some are negative because they can cause allergic reactions and be phototoxic or photosensitive. Tea Tree Oil is a good guy, it's super helpful in curing acne. It shouldn't be used straight on your skin, it needs to be diluted. It has antibacterial and antiseptic properties just like an extract from.
Centella Asiatica Extract is an ingredient that stays in the skincare trend. Lots of ingredients used in skincare have a long history of use in medicine. This ingredient isn't different because Centella is a part of Ayurveda, a traditional (or if you prefer - alternative) medicine used by people for ages. Nowadays we associate it with India. Centella is a herb primarily applied in skincare for its healing properties. It speeds up the healing process, and that's why acne-prone skin loves it. If you're pregnant or you plan pregnancy, then try to find body care products with Centella Asiatica because it can have a valuable meaning on skin elasticity as well as stretch marks. Corallina Officinalis Extract is an antioxidant and colourant. Lotus Corniculatus Seed Extract has a soothing effect on the skin. Calophyllum Inophyllum Seed Oil or Tamanu Oil, this oil is recommended for acne-prone skin due to its antibacterial properties. Betaine Salicylate is a delicate exfoliant, great for acne-prone skin. If the name reminds you of Salicylic Acid then you're right - it's a mix of Betaine and Salicylic Acid. Sodium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate is an emulsifier. Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate is a gentle surfactant. Caprylyl Glycol is a moisturizer and an oily emollient. It leaves a delicate, protective film on your skin. But that's not all, Caprylyl Glycol is useful when you want to keep your product free from unfriendly stuff like microbes. Ethylhexylglycerin is a preservative. It keeps products fresh. Dextrin is an ingredient that we usually associate with moisture. Pentylene Glycol is a humectant with antimicrobial properties. Tocopherol or Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant. It's a water-soluble ingredient. Some people think it's a natural preservative, but Tocopherol itself in formulas is not the best to preserve the product. It boosts UVB protection, and if you add Vitamin C - you'll get better effects of both vitamins. Xanthan Gum is a thickener and stabilizer which you can find in food and skincare. Carbomer is a thickener and stabilizer. You can often see it in gel formulas.
Beauty of Joseon Dynasty Cream
Water, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Water, Glycerin, Panax Ginseng Root Water, Hydrogenated Polydecene, 1,2-Hexanediol, Niacinamide, Squalane, Butylene Glycol, Propanediol, Butylene Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate, Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Xanthan Gum, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Tromethamine, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil, Hydrogenated Coconut Oil, Glyceryl Acrylate/Acrylic Acid Copolymer, Ethylhexylglycerin, Adenosine, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Disodium EDTA, Hyaluronic Acid, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Honey Extract, Ceramide NP, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Coptis Japonica Root Extract, Raphanus Sativus (Radish) Seed Extract, Lycium Chinense Fruit Extract, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Extract, Phellinus Linteus Extract, Dextrin, Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract
Water is an ingredient that you can find in almost every product. Its purpose in products is easy - it's a solvent. Glycerin is one of the most popular humectants in skincare. There's a large number of myths around glycerin like it can clog your skin. It doesn't clog your pores, but too much glycerin can make a sticky layer on the epidermis and even make your skin dryer than before due to TEWL (Transepidermal Water Loss). Still, it's an ingredient that we want to see in formulas. Panax Ginseng Root Water is a water form of the so-called "root of immortality". Ginseng is a source of saponins, and using root water as a base of the product was a clever move. Hydrogenated Polydecene or Alphaflow, it's an emollient, and it's excellent for sensitive skin. It feels like 1,2-Hexanediol is everywhere, and it's not a surprise. Even if it's a solvent, it's also a moisturizer. Niacinamide is a miracle ingredient. It does lots of great work. Do you have problems with dark spots? Try Niacinamide! Acne? Niacinamide will be an ideal pick for you too! Maybe you've got issues with the skin barrier? Solve it with Niacinamide! Wrinkles? You might want to try Niacinamide as well. Sensitive skin might find Niacinamide a bit problematic when it's mixed with Vitamin C or used in the same routine as Vitamin C. I can't deny Niacinamide is a skincare treasure! Squalane is an ingredient that I believe everyone should enjoy. In nature, Squalane occurs in human sebum, and it protects the skin from dehydration. Sadly, with age, the amount of Squalane in sebum decreases. Usually, Squalane in your skincare products comes from olives or sugar cane. It's a light, stable oil with a single bond (squalENE has double bonds, and both these ingredients shouldn't be mistaken). It has no colour and scent. It's perfect for sensitive skin and dehydrated skin since it strengths the lipid barrier. It speeds up the healing process, and it won't clog your skin.
Butylene Glycol is a moisturizer and solvent, but it's also alcohol. You see, not every alcohol in skincare is terrible. Some of them have positive effects on your skin - just like Butylene Glycol, which is a popular substance even in eco/green cosmetic products. Propanediol is a solvent with moisturizing properties. Similar to Cyclohexasiloxane, Propylene Glycol is an ingredient that some people try to avoid. You're most likely to see Propanediol instead of Propylene Glycol in an organic skincare product, and the reason for this change is simple. Ecocert recommends it. Butylene Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate is a synthetic emollient, it leaves a delicate film on the skin. Cetearyl Olivate and Sorbitan Olivate are nothing else than Olivem 1000. It's a natural emulsifier.
Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer is a synthetic polymer. It thickens the formula. Xanthan Gum is a thickener and stabilizer which you can find in food and skincare. Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer is a carbomer's distant family. It works as a stabilizer and thickener. Tromethamine helps with the pH, to make sure your product has an ideal pH. Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil is an emollient. Hydrogenated Coconut Oil is an emollient. It leaves a moisturizing film on the surface of the skin, but oily skin might not enjoy it. Glyceryl Acrylate/Acrylic Acid Copolymer is a moisturizer. Ethylhexylglycerin is a preservative. It keeps products fresh. Adenosine is another elegant ingredient. It speeds up the healing process and repairs the skin barrier. It's ideal for inflamed skin, and it might have a positive effect on skin elasticity. Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride is an emollient. It's a combination of coconut oil and glycerin that makes mild, gentle and delicate emollients. It thickens the formula, but it also makes skin feel smooth in touch. Disodium EDTA is a synthetic stabilizer and preservative. It helps with the viscosity of the product. Hyaluronic Acid is an ingredient that everyone knows, and lately, European brands seem to be obsessed with it. Hyaluronic Acid is an ingredient that naturally occurs in our skin, and people usually think it's a wonderful moisturizer - the answer to dry skin. We have to remember that HA in skincare comes in a few different forms - a low molecule or high molecule, the smaller the molecule is, the easier is the penetration of the product. Usually, low molecule HA costs more, and you can barely even see the product with HA and information on the molecular weight of the Hyaluronic Acid. Some people might get reactions to HA - my skin gets dehydrated when I use HA serums, sometimes I have to deal with redness or even acne after using HA serums, but acne, redness, skin sensitivity, and other reactions to the skin are personal. One product can work for you, but it won't work for your friend - same with ingredients. Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid is a low weight humectant. It's a form of natural moisturizing factor that occurs in our skin - Hyaluronic Acid. The smaller the molecule is, the better it works. Sodium Hyaluronate is a salt form of a popular Natural Moisturizing Factor - Hyaluronic Acid. Honey Extract is a moisturizer. Ceramide NP or Ceramide 3 is an ingredient that we want to see in our products. Ceramides naturally occur in human skin, and they have a dominant role. You can find them in the lipid barrier of the skin along with cholesterol and fatty acids. Ceramide is like a cement of the skin. It makes sure that your skin won't get dehydrated. Hydrogenated Lecithin is lecithin after surgery - it works as an emollient, but it is also used to encapsulate the active substance in liposomes (since they are supposed to help the active substance penetrate the skin deeper). Coptis Japonica Root Extract or Japanese Goldthread is an antioxidant with calming and nourishing properties. Raphanus Sativus (Radish) Seed Extract or Daikon Seed Extract is an emollient. Lycium Chinense Fruit Extract or Wolfberry is an antioxidant, it protects and fixes your skin from the damage created by free radicals. Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Extract is an extract derived from cocoa's seeds and bark. It can be moisturizing. Phellinus Linteus Extract or Meshima mushroom. It has different names in different languages for example in Korean it's sanghwang. This mushroom is used in traditional medicine as tea. The power of this ingredient is in polysaccharides - it has anti-inflammatory properties. Dextrin is an ingredient that we usually associate with moisture. Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract - we know this herb from Traditional Chinese Medicine. Skullcap Root Extract is an antioxidant with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It can brighten your skin a bit. Scutellaria hides under the name Huang Qin and it helps with inflammation and allergy.
Beauty Of Joseon is a brand that you probably already know if you follow Kherblog. Beauty Of Joseon is a Korean skincare brand with a long tradition in Hanbang skincare. Hanbang is a term for Traditional Korean Medicine. You can be a bit shocked since some ingredients used in Traditional Korean Medicine are similar to Traditional Chinese Medicine but that shouldn't surprise you since there are some herbs which you can find all around the world used to cure the illness. But Hanbang is not only about skincare but health in general. It's about using natural ingredients to help your body. Nowadays if it comes to Hanbang skincare it's usually about mixing tradition with technologies but still, it's all about antioxidants and the power of natural ingredients. Lots of luxurious brands are based on traditional herbal medicine. You have to believe that traditional medicine has a strong meaning in the culture - just look at universities in Korea, you can find lots of programs related to traditional medicine. I already tried Beauty Of Joseon Calming Serum Green Tea + Panthenol, but I planned to check Propolis serum anyway. The biggest surprise for me was Beauty Of Joseon Bubble Toner: Green Plum + AHA - I tried Bubble Toner in Pure Cloud version, I'm not sure if it's the same, but I think Pure Cloud had no acids, Beauty Of Joseon Bubble Toner: Green Plum + AHA is better in my opinion and it's a very gentle exfoliant. The entire BEAUTY OF JOSEON x STYLEVANA Clear Skin Set cost $21.99 and it's a great product if you want to buy someone some K-beauty set for Christmas.
Buy BEAUTY OF JOSEON x STYLEVANA Clear Skin Set
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Overall, I wasn't able to give you full reviews, but I hope you enjoy this post. Stylevana has many interesting products - some of them are new for me, I guess Farm Stay and Beauty Of Joseon are the biggest surprises for me.
Have you ever tried any of these products?
**This post was made in a collaboration with Stylevana even though it still shows my personal opinion on the topic and product. This post contains affiliate links - you don't have to use them, but I would be thankful if you can use my links and promocodes - they help me pay for domain and all cost related to blogging and sharing posts and photos with you. ***
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