Month: July 2020

REVIEW: Belif Aqua Bomb Jelly Cleanser

adminLeave a comment

It has been just over 3 years since I did my last review of Belif products! Once upon a time, their True Cream – Moisturizing Bomb was my go-to moisturizer, and the True Cream Aqua Bomb surprised me as a lovely gel moisturizer. When I received their Aqua Bomb Jelly Cleanser, I was excited to see how hydrating it would be since the formula is supposed to have similar hydrating ingredients to the Aqua Bomb!

As mentioned in my previous review, Belif is a Korean brand that combines traditional herbal processing methods based on British herbalist Duncan Napier from the 1860s (Napiers is now a herbal medicine company that supplies their “original formulas” to Belif), with their own innovative extracting method.

This product was sent as a PR Sample. My thoughts are my own, always *casts does patronus*

DESCRIPTION

wp-1595789484579.jpg

 A gentle jelly-to-foam cleanser with the same explosive burst of hydration as belif’s cult favorite The True Cream Aqua Bomb, that gently removes all traces of makeup and impurities without stripping the skin of moisture.

– Sephora.ca

Formulated with the same hydrating properties as The True Cream Aqua Bomb, the cleanser provides a refreshing burst of hydration while cleansing the skin. Aqua Bomb Jelly Cleanser is formulated with amino acids and glycerin-based cleansing agents that gently remove makeup and impurities, and don’t strip the skin of moisture. 

– Belifcanada.ca

Amount: 5.41oz/160ml
Price: $34 CAD / $28 USD

INGREDIENTS

wp-1595789484507.jpg

Water, Glycerin, Potassium Cocoyl Glycinate, Coco-Betaine, 1,2-Hexanediol, Potassium Cocoate, Lauramidopropyl Betaine, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Stellaria Media (Chickweed) Extract+ **, Alchemilla Vulgaris Leaf Extract**, Equisetum Arvense Leaf Extract**, Urtica Dioica (Nettle) Leaf Extract**, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract+, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract+, Nepeta Cataria Extract+, Rubus Idaeus (Raspberry) Leaf Extract+, Baptisia Tinctoria Root Extract+, Potassium Hydroxide, Sodium Chloride, Ethylhexylglycerin, Glyceryl Oleate, Coco-Glucoside, Butylene Glycol, Tetrasodium EDTA, Malachite Extract, Citric Acid, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil++, Citrus Aurantifolia (Lime) Oil++, Pelargonium Graveolens Flower Oil++, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil++, Limonene, Citronellol, Geraniol, Citral.

*Napiers original formula. +Napiers moisture formula. ++Fragrances of natural origin.

INCIDecoder
Skincarisma Belif Aqua Bomb Jelly Cleanser vs. Aqua Bomb True Cream

HILIGHTED INGREDIENTS:
Potassium Cocoyl Glycinate, Coco-Betaine, Coco-Glucoside – surfactants derived from coconut, considered to be more gentle than the traditional surfactants on the market such as SLS and SLES.
Glycerin: Humectant and skin-identical ingredient.
Alchemilla Vulgaris Leaf Extract (Lady’s Mantle), Malachite Extract – antioxidants.
Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract – antioxidants, soothing.

I attempted to measure the pH level 3 different ways, and it seems to be within the 6-7 range (sorry for the shoddy photos):

Based off of Skincarisma’s compare tool, around 46% of the Aqua Bomb Jelly Cleanser consists of the same ingredients to their True Cream Aqua Bomb. That does not mean however that the 2 products will perform similarly, especially since a cleanser well… washes off. Nonetheless, they’re potentially beneficial ingredients in relation to making this a non-stripping cleanser in general.

EXPERIENCE

Packaging: Opaque tube with squeeze spout.

Texture: Clear jelly.

Fragrance: Slightly sweet citrus.

Application: Nickel-size amount, light lather on face and massage for 1 minute. Slightly foams. Pat excess water off with a face towel, but still leaving skin feeling slightly damp.

Feel: Glides easily on skin without feeling sticky.

Instant Results: Cleanses well if not wearing any waterproof makeup or SPF, skin does not feel tight between lightly patting off excess water and moving on to leave-on products while having damp skin. When I dried my skin completely, my face felt noticeably tighter than if I were to use another cleanser prior.

Long-Term Results: Skin barrier is not compromised, doesn’t feel sensitive.

FINAL THOUGHTS

PROS:

  • Despite the price, it comes in a large tube and a little goes a long way.
  • Glycerin is the 2nd ingredient on the list.
  • Skin barrier does not feel compromised after use (when I just remove excess water from my face).
  • Skin feels softer.

IN-BETWEEN FEELS:

  • Even though it has a handful of ingredients similar to what’s in the True Cream Aqua Bomb, I still feel like I have to follow up with a hydrator after use because it’s not enough.
  • Would’ve really enjoyed this cleanser more if it wasn’t foaming like Dr. Sam’s Flawless Cleanser – I feel like I would’ve experienced a more hydrating feel to this cleanser had they gone that route.
  • If my testing is correct, the pH of this cleanser is a bit too high for my liking. I can still work with it better than other high pH cleansers I’ve tried.

CONS:

  • Stings eyes.
  • If I fully dry my face with a face towel, I do experience a tight feeling rather quickly.

Overall, the Belif Aqua Bomb Jelly Cleanser for me is okay. It feels nice, performs well as a morning and/or second cleanse, and leaves my skin feeling soft. Despite the price, a little goes a long way so you won’t run out too quickly if you decide to give this cleanser a try.

WHERE TO BUY:

Avon
Sephora *
Ulta *

* Links are affiliate links. This means that if you click on a link and make a purchase through it, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you so much if you decide to use it! If you feel uncomfortable, feel free to google a new link.

As always, I hope you found this review helpful and informative!

xo, M

RELATED CONTENT:
[REVIEW] Belif | Witch Hazel Herbal Extract Toner, Hungarian Water Essence, the True Cream – Moisturizing Bomb

SUNSCREEN SUNDAY [#13]: Cell Fusion C Post Alpha Cure Sunscreen 100 SPF50+ PA++++

adminLeave a comment

Cell Fusion C is a Korean medical skincare brand that formulates products specifically targeted to those that had a laser or chemical treatment. This is a #YoutubeMadeMeBuyIt moment from Beauty Cloud Una – I never would have heard of the brand or have an interest in trying their Post Alpha Cure Sunscreen 100 SPF50+ PA++++ until she raved about it being on of her faves!

INFORMATION ON CELL FUSION C POST ALPHA CURE SUNSCREEN 100 SPF50+ PA++++

  • A moist, cooling sunscreen that protects the sensitive and dry skin from harmful UV rays.
  • Water-holding formula keeps the skin moist with the ample moisture of the blue soothing essence.
  • The fresh and moist, blue sunscreen soothes the sensitive skin with ample cooling moisture.

– Jolse.com

Additional Claims:

  • Safe for sensitive skin
  • Texture without stickiness

Price: $24-27 USD
Amount: 50 ml

UV FILTERS:

Type: Organic
Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (Octinoxate)
Homosalate
Ethylhexyl Salicylate (Octisalate)
Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate (Uvinul A Plus)
Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine (Tinosorb S)
Polysilicone-15 (Parsol SLX)

Protection:
UVB: SPF50+
UVA: PA++++ (~PPD 16+)

INGREDIENTS (from StyleKorean):
Water, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Homosalate, Alcohol Denat., Ethylhexyl Salicylate, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Dipropylene Glycol, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, Butylene Glycol, Dibutyl Adipate, Polysilicone-15, Plukenetia Volubilis Seed Oil, Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein, Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Pentylene Glycol, Caprylyl Methicone, Bis-PEG-18 Methyl Ether Dimethyl Silane, Sodium Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Isohexadecane, Caprylyl Glycol, PEG-12 Dimethicone/PPG-20 Crosspolymer, Acrylates Copolymer, Polysorbate 80, Guaiazulene, Sorbitan Oleate , Maltodextrin, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Ceramide NP, Sucrose Stearate, Cholesterol, Cholesteryl Macadamiate, Palmitic Acid, Stearic Acid, Hydrolyzed Lupine Protein, Saccharide Isomerate, Disodium EDTA, Flavor
I like how this sunscreen has 6 different filters in the formula to ensure full UV protection (UVB, UVAII, UVAI). The key ingredient in the formula is Guaiazulene, which makes the formula blue and has a calming and soothing effect. This also contains fatty lipids Ceramide NP and Cholesterol, which are skin-identical ingredients that serve as emollients.

MY EXPERIENCE WITH CELL FUSION C POST ALPHA CURE SUNSCREEN 100 SPF50+ PA++++

PACKAGING:  Opaque blue plastic tube with small spout.

CONSISTENCY:  Runny lotion.

FRAGRANCE: Light, sweet scent.

APPLICATION: Glides on very easily with a light touch.

FINISH: Glowy.

wp-1594320021104.jpg

FEEL: Emollient because it feels very light on the skin despite the glow. I wouldn’t say full blown greasy because it does not feel heavy.

STINGS EYES? Yes. First part of the day my eyes seem okay, but as the time goes on my eyes sting like crazy.

WHITECAST / TINTED? No.

WATER RESISTANT? No.

SKIN BENEFITS? It feels like I added an extra moisturizer to my skin. I’ve also used this SPF when my skin was irritated and I noticed the calming effects.

UNDER MAKEUP: Does not add or subtract to longevity.

PROS:

  • Highest protection you can find in Asian sunscreens – SPF50+ PA++++
  • Very easy to apply the 2mg/cm2
  • Feels light and gentle
  • Calms skin

CONS:

  • Stings eyes a lot
  • Price

FINAL THOUGHTS ON CELL FUSION C POST ALPHA CURE SUNSCREEN 100 SPF50+ PA++++

Cell Fusion C Post Alpha Cure Sunscreen 100 SPF50+ PA++++ was overall a very pleasant experience and I’m glad that a Youtube recommendation came through. If you can get a hold of it and don’t mind the price per ml, I think you will enjoy it. I purchased 2 on eBay at the time with the price under $40 USD so my wallet wasn’t crying too much. Otherwise I wouldn’t go out of my way to purchase it again since I have easier access to other sunscreens that offer the same or more protection here in Canada.

WHERE TO BUY:
StyleKorean – This is an affiliate link. If you use this link to make a purchase, I earn a small commission. Thank you if you decide to use it! If you feel uncomfortable, feel free to google a new link.

Jolse
Amazon.com

I hope you found this post helpful and informative!

xo, M

By Wishtrend Pure Vitamin C 15% with Ferulic Acid Review

admin2 Comments

When I saw Wishtrend launching By Wishtrend Pure Vitamin C 15% with Ferulic Acid Serum, I immediately thought, “IS IT A K-BEAUTY DUPE FOR SKINCEUTICALS CE FERULIC?”

In this post I’ll be reviewing the serum and comparing it with the do-all serum, from my skinthusiast perspective! This means that I am comparing the two serums and ingredients based on me just being a random person on the internet with an intense interest in skincare. I’m in no way a professional in this field!

This product was sent for review purposes. My thoughts are my own, always *casts does patronus*

DESCRIPTION

This vitamin C serum contains 15% pure vitamin C which helps with antioxidant care, skin brightening, acne prevention, boost collagen, and recovers the skin from UV rays. As it contains ferulic acid, it maximizes the antioxidant and antibacterial effect of vitamin C. Recommended for oily and combination skin and for vitamin C beginners.

– Wishtrend

Amount: 30ml
Price: $28 USD
How to use: Apply 3-4 drops on your palm and gently pat over the face. Pat lightly until it fully absorbs.

INGREDIENTS

wp-1594219890710.jpg

Before we dive right in, to determine if it is close to a dupe, it has to check the following:

  • pH around 2.0-3.5
  • 10-20% L-Ascorbic Acid concentration
  • Contain Ferulic Acid
  • Contain Alpha Tocopherol

Published in 8 peer-reviewed scientific journals, C E Ferulic is a vitamin C serum formulated under the Duke Antioxidant patent. The Duke Antioxidant patent describes effective delivery of vitamin C to skin. In order for a vitamin C serum to be effective it must be formulated with pure l-ascorbic acid (vitamin C) at an acidic pH within the 2.0-3.5 pH range and have a concentration between 10-20%. SkinCeuticals is the only brand to formulate antioxidants according to these parameters. 

– Skinceuticals

Skinceutical CE Ferulic:

  • pH 2.0-3.5 (I’ve seen 3 as the sweet spot)
  • 15% vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)
  • 1% vitamin E (Tocopherol)
  • 0.5% Ferulic Acid

By Wishtrend Pure Vitamin C 15% with Ferulic Acid Ingredients:

Hippophae Rhamnoides Water, Ethoxydiglycol, Ascorbic Acid, Diglycerin, Methylpropanediol, 1,2-Hexanediol, C12-14 Pareth-12, Ethyl Ascorbyl Ether, Tromethamine, Ferulic Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin, Aqua (Water), Niacinamide, Calcium Pantothenate, Maltodextrin, Sodium Starch Octenylsuccinate, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Pyridoxine HCl, Silica

INCIDecoder

What we know so far based on By Wishtrend’s packaging and INCI list is the following:

  • 15% vitamin C (ascorbic acid)
  • 1% Ethyl Ascorbyl Ether
  • 0.5% Ferulic Acid
  • ?% Tocopheryl Acetate

pH LEVEL – I tested the pH level on a strip with 2 different brands, both resulted in a pH between 5-6 (so 5.5).

L-ASCORBIC ACID – The king of Vitamin C! Shown to boost collagen synthesis, fade hyperpigmentation, boost UV protection under sunscreen, brighten complexion.

FERULIC ACID – antioxidant; Used to stabilized LAA.

TOCOPHERYL ACETATE – antioxidant

Yes, there is Vitamin E in By Wishtrend’s serum, it is Tocopheryl Acetate, not Alpha Tocopherol. While an esterized Vitamin E may not seem such a big deal, INCIDecoder points out the following:

According to famous dermatologist, Leslie Baumann while tocopheryl acetate is more stable and has a longer shelf life, it’s also more poorly absorbed by the skin and may not have the same awesome photoprotective effects as pure Vit E. 

– INCIDecoder

In addition, the tests Skinceuticals performed were with Alpha Tocopherol, so we can’t just assume a derivative will perform the same at enhancing LAA’s potency. Alongside LAA, Ferulic Acid, and Vitamin E, there are additional antioxidants below.

ETHYL ASCORBYL ETHER – Vitamin C derivative, antioxidant, brightening

SODIUM ASCORBYL PHOSPHATE – Vitamin C derivative, antioxidant, supposed to help combat acne.

NIACINAMIDE – antioxidant, anti-inflammatory; shown to minimize fine lines and pores, increase skin’s lipid production, brighten and even complexion, fade hyperpigmentation, reduce sebum production.

While it has been debunked many a times that LAA and Niacinamide do not “cancel” each other out, I do raise a brow of it being in the formula. In my understanding, Niacinamide is usually formulated at a higher pH than what LAA is supposed to be. So while this formula is stable with the two ingredients, the pH is now increased to accommodate both. Not to say that it should copy the Skinceuticals patent, but the pH level is quite high compared to other LAA-E-Ferulic serums on the market.

Based on my skinthusiast self inspecting the INCI list (a.k.a. not a specialist), this formula is not a dupe. I don’t mind Niacinamide and Tocopheryl Acetate in the formula, but what bothers me is the pH being a bit high. I can’t help but wonder if I’ll get the full bang of antioxidant benefits from the LAA. The description does say this vitamin C serum is for beginners, but will a beginner even notice benefits?

EXPERIENCE

Packaging: Dark dropper bottle.

Texture: Liquid. It looks clear when you open a new bottle. I lost my photos I took so I had to settle for a slightly oxidized swatch. Sorry!

Fragrance: Smells like vitamin C?

Application: The directions say 3-4 drops, but I don’t play around with LAA due to how unstable it is. I apply a full dropper and massage all around my face, neck and clavicle.

Finish: Thin and adds some glow.

Feel: Slightly sticky, hydrating. If I used a chemical exfoliant prior, it does sting a bit.

Instant Results: Adds a slight bit more moisture to my skin, maintains a bright and even complexion, pores are very minimized!

Long-Term Results: Haven’t noticed much myself since I’ve been using Vitamin C serums for a while. My cousin and aunt are also using this Vitamin C Serum, and they said they noticed their skin is much brighter and more even.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Keeping in mind that this is a vitamin C for beginners, the By Wishtrend Pure Vitamin C 15% with Ferulic Acid is a nice antioxidant serum. It is brightening, minimizes pores, has nice ingredients. I still can’t help but feel like I won’t be getting the full antioxidant benefits L-Ascorbic Acid has to offer however. I couldn’t help but HOPE that this would be an awesome, gentle K-Beauty alternative of an LAA-E-Ferulic serum in the low pH range, but alas, I’m slightly disappointed. I’ll definitely continue using By Wishtrend’s new Vitamin C serum until the end since I’m still noticing some skin benefits (also I don’t want to waste it). I also have By Wishtrend’s Pure Vitamin C  21.5% Advanced serum as well hanging out my the fridge to try out later. Definitely curious to see how it performs, as that one does not contain Vitamin E or Ferulic Acid, but does have a low pH while containing a high amount of LAA! My top vitamin C recommendation is still Paula’s Choice C15 Super Booster if you’re looking for a low pH, gentle, not $100+ LAA-E-Ferulic serum (the only one that ticks all the boxes that’s available to Canadians).

WHERE TO BUY:
Wishtrend
Use “MICHXMASH15” for 15% off

Yesstyle *
Use “YESMICH” * for 5% off first order, 2% off returning orders

* Affiliate codes/links. This means that if you click on the link or use the code to make a purchase, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you so much if you decide to use it! If you feel uncomfortable, feel free to google a new link.

As always, I hope you found this review helpful and informative!

xo, M

SUNSCREEN SUNDAY [#12]: Purito Centella Green Level Unscented Sun SPF50+ PA++++

admin3 Comments

Purito is one of the more popular Korean skincare brands I keep hearing on the market, and lots and lots of people rave about their sunscreens! I picked up the Purito Centella Green Level Unscented Sun SPF50+ PA++++ – the most recommended one out of their 3 sunscreens, and the most compared to Klairs Soft Airy UV Essence SPF50+ PA++++.

INFORMATION ON PURITO CENTELLA GREEN LEVEL UNSCENTED SUN SPF50+ PA++++

If you couldn’t use sunscreen because you were put off by its strong scent or because your skin doesn’t take well to natural essential oils, you should try the new PURITO Centella Unscented Sun. Use the highly concentrated super centella and enjoy cica-care with an increased content of madecassoside. The new cica-care enhances the skin barrier to provide better protection from strong ultraviolet rays and external stimuli. 

The product contains mild and safe ingredients that helps to avoid side effects of the existing chemical sunscreens such as eye and skin irritation. It doesn’t cause any discomfort, even when applied to sensitive skin. If applying sunscreen before makeup was a burden because of the white cast and the stifling feeling, PURITO Centella Unscented is the right product for you, as it spreads in a thin, transparent layer and doesn’t leave a heavy finish on the skin.

– Puritoen.com

Price: $18-20 USD
Amount: 60 ml

UV FILTERS:

Type: Organic
Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate – Uvinul A Plus (3%)
Ethylhexyl Triazone – Uvinul T 150 (2%)
Protection:
UVB: SPF50+ (~SPF60)
UVA: PA++++ – PPD 22.59

INGREDIENTS:
Water, Butylene Glycol, Butyloctyl Salicylate, Glycerin, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, Acrylates Copolymer, Silica, 1,2-Hexanediol, Niacinamide, Dibutyl Adipate, Ethylhexyl Triazone, Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate, Cetearyl Olivate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Sorbitan Olivate, Glyceryl Stearate, Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate, Sorbitan Stearate, Centella Asiatica Extract(4315ppm), Madecassoside, Asiaticoside, Madecassic Acid, Asiatic Acid, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-di-t-butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Disodium EDTA, Adenosine, Hyaluronic Acid, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Tocopherol

INCIDecoder

Niacinamide and Tocopherol are always a great ingredients to have, especially in a sunscreen for additional protection against the formation of free radicals. Glycerin and Hyaluronic Acid are also found on the list for humectant properties. Centella Asiatica Extract and it’s constituents Madecassoside, Asiaticoside, Madecassic Acid, Asiatic Acid are also in the formula – their skin benefits range from wound-healing, anti-inflammatory, and an antioxidant. Centella Asiatica is one of my favourite supportive ingredients for those of us with troubled skin. My skin always feels calmer and less irritated when I use a product with this ingredient. I find it a great addition to a sunscreen for it to help keep my skin calm and prevent it from becoming over-heated from summer weather.

MY EXPERIENCE WITH PURITO CENTELLA GREEN LEVEL UNSCENTED SUN SPF50+ PA++++

PACKAGING:  Opaque white plastic tube with small spout.

CONSISTENCY:  Gel-cream, leaning more on the cream.

FRAGRANCE: None.

APPLICATION: Glides on very easily with a light touch. While applying, it appears white on the skin but it fades as it’s blended in.

FINISH: Glowy, when I touch my skin it feels like there’s an oily residue.

wp-1593965825186.jpg

FEEL: Neutral. I find that despite the moisturized look, I can’t rely on this as a moisturizing SPF, even in the summertime.

STINGS EYES? No.

WHITECAST / TINTED? No.

WATER RESISTANT? No.

SKIN BENEFITS? My skin feels very comfortable when I use it and rarely stings. Even if my skin feels particularly sensitive, I find this SPF doesn’t exacerbate the irritation and calms any redness.

UNDER MAKEUP: I like using it as my tester sunscreen for under makeup, because the finish is similar to my moisturizer. It doesn’t take away my foundation’s longevity, but it doesn’t add to it like a mineral SPF would.

PROS:

  • Highest protection you can find in Asian sunscreens – SPF50+ PA++++
  • Very easy to apply the 2mg/cm2
  • Feels comfortable
  • Purito shares the percentage of UV Filters as well as the PPD value

IN-BETWEEN FEELS:

  • I find the finish sometimes too oily
  • I feel like I used it less than 30 times and I’m almost done the 60ml tube; I could have over applied while using it

FINAL THOUGHTS ON PURITO CENTELLA GREEN LEVEL UNSCENTED SUN SPF50+ PA++++

True to the hype, the Purito Centella Green Level Unscented Sun SPF50+ PA++++ is indeed an awesome sunscreen! Whether or not it’s better than the Klairs Soft Airy UV Essence, I like both of them for completely different reasons. I like Purito Centella Green Level Unscented Sun for it being more on the emollient side, non-sensitizing, and containing Centella Asiatica constituents. Klairs Soft Airy UV Essence is in a larger tube for just a few more dollars, and I find myself reaching for it more for reapplication because of it’s gel-cream texture leaning on the more gel side. I find any skin type would be happy with either depending how your overall morning skincare routine is.

WHERE TO BUY:
Yesstyle

Use code “YESMICH” to get 5% off your 1st order, 2% off your next orders

These are affiliate links and codes. If you use them to make a purchase, I earn a small commission at no extra charge to you. Thank you if you decide to use them! If you are uncomfortable, feel free to google a new link.

I hope you found this post helpful and informative!

xo, M