REVIEW: By Wishtrend Polyphenols In Propolis 15% Ampoule

February 17, 2020 MICHXMASHLeave a comment

Another week, another Korean skincare product to review for you all! In this post I’ll be reviewing the By Wishtrend Polyphenols In Proposlis 15% Ampoule and how it performed for my acne prone, normal to dry skin. Believe it or not, I think the last time I tried any product with Propolis was the Egyptian Magic Cream.

Product is a PR sample and provided for review purposes.
All thoughts are my own, always *casts doe patronus*

CLAIMS

This ampoule contains Houttuynia Cordata Extract effective in soothing acne instead of water and 15% Propolis with powerful antioxidant effects. The product improves acne and sensitive skin through powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects and immune system enhancement.

– Wishtrend

Price: $32 USD
Amount: 30 ml

Made in Korea
Made for all skin types
Cruelty-free
Free of ethanol, silicone, steroid, artificial colouring, artificial fragrance

INGREDIENTS

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

From my -skinthusiast- perspective…

Just like their Vitamin 75 Maximizing Cream, I appreciate that the bulk of the product is not in a base of water! Houttuynia Cordata Extract has polyphenolic flavanoids (hence the name) which have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-bacterial properties. The extract also contains sugar molecules that serve as good humectants. Propolis Extract may also have soothing and antioxidant properties, so I can see how based on these ingredients alone that By Wishtrend claims the ampoule will help those with acne prone and sensitive skin.

Joining the moisturizing list is Glycerin and Sodium Hyaluronate, both great humectants that are found in pretty much all moisturizing products these days.

Panthenol and Zinc PCA are also listed as moisturizing ingredients, but for acne prone skin are particularly beneficial; The former for being soothing and having wound-healing properties, and the latter to help reduce acne causing bacteria.

Admittedly the number of plant extracts overwhelmed me at first, but reading about them calmed my mind, for they all pretty much further contribute to the ampoule’s soothing and moisturizing abilities. Since Houttuynia Cordata and Propolis Extract take up the bulk of the formula, it’s highly possible that the additional extracts are in low percentages either way.

INCIDecoder Breakdown

EXPERIENCE

Packaging: Glass bottle with a dropper.

Usage: Morning and/or evening, applied after cleansing and/or before moisturizer.

Texture: Slippery.

Fragrance: None.

Finish: Light but moisturizing.

Instant Results: Skin feels surprisingly moisturized. If I were to measure based on previously reviewed products, it sits between the I’m From Rice Toner and Laneige Cream Skin Refiner.

Long-Term Results: Skin rarely feels rough or dehydrated.

FINAL THOUGHTS

The By Wishtrend Polyphenols In Propolis 15% Ampoule has performed well in terms of gentleness, adding additional moisture to my skin, and its antioxidant benefits. However when it comes to calming active acne lesions, this was not enough for me; I still need to use Aczone or Benzoyl Peroxide to really get the job done. With conversion to CAD it is a bit pricey, but a little goes a long way so if you’re interested in this ampoule, you’ll get a fair mileage. I appreciate the blend of science-backed and traditional ingredients being used in the formula, and they avoided including heavy fragrance and a high use of texture-enhancing ingredients – it’s not to say that these ingredients are bad, but it’s nice to know that the cosmetic elegance of the product is mainly due to a lot of the beneficial ingredients in the formula. Overall if you want to try a Propolis type of serum that is gentle enough to use on acne-prone skin, you may like this.

WHERE TO BUY:
Wishtrend
YesStyle

Links provided are affiliate links. This means if you click the link and use it to make a purchase, I make a small commission. Thank you if you decide to use them! If you do not feel comfortable, feel free to Google a new link.

Hope you found this review helpful and informative!

xo, M

REVIEW: Laneige Cica Sleeping Mask

February 10, 2020 MICHXMASHLeave a comment

Just like the Laneige Cream Skin Refiner, Youtube influence was strong and I also picked up the Laneige Cica Sleeping Mask! I purchased this around the time the Klairs Vitamin E Mask started becoming too irritating to use, so I was hoping Laneige’s new sleeping Mask would be a good alternative for soothing and keeping in moisture.

CLAIMS

Cica Sleeping Mask with new and powerful ‘Forest Yeast’ helps to strengthen the skin’s moisture barrier for the sensitive and dry skin to make it appear healthy.

Price: $45 CAD
Amount: 60ml/2oz

Hypoallergenic
For all skin types
Helps to tackle redness and dryness
Mask
Free of parabens, phthalates, and mineral oil
Contains less than one percent of synthetic fragrances
Vegan
Fermented Forest Yeast Extract: Provides more skin strengthening benefits than traditional Cica products with madecassosides.

INGREDIENTS

Water / Aqua / Eau, Propanediol, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Squalane, Hydrogenated Poly(C6-14 Olefin), Glycerin, Panthenol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Glyceryl Stearate Citrate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate, Polyglyceryl-10 Stearate, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Butylene Glycol, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Glyceryl Caprylate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium Edta, Asiaticoside, Madecassic Acid, Sorbitan Isostearate, Asiatic Acid, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Aureobasidium Pullulans Ferment, Chamaecyparis Obtusa Leaf Extract, Cymbopogon Martini Oil, Tocopherol.

From my -skinthusiast- perspective…

Love that the first ingredients include Squalane, Glycerin, and Shea Butter. The mask is a nice, medium-weight (if that makes sense) cream that would be enjoyed by all skin types depending on much you apply. Typically a moisturizer that is Shea Butter-based is not enough for my normal to dry skin type, so I imagine myself using a more generous amount.

Panthenol, Centella Asiatica constituents Asiaticoside, Madecassic Acid, Asiatic Acid can be found for some soothing and wound-healing benefits. Tea Tree Oil (I’m assuming Essential Oil) in small, diluted doses is also beneficial for its soothing properties, and helps reduce inflammation with active acne lesions.

As for the star ingredient Aureobasidium Pullulans Ferment/”Forest Yeast” – I can’t really find much about what it does for skincare, but in terms of food it has film-forming properties, it’s used to create a gelatin-like coating for capsules and tablets, and is edible. According to WHO, Japan has been using it as a food ingredient and additive since 1976. Based on this, my guess is that it may also form a film on the skin, hence Laneige’s claim that it helps strengthen the skin’s moisture barrier. Their other claim that it “provides more skin strengthening benefits than traditional Cica products with madecassosides” may be hard to determine from personal experience if the product also contains Centella Asiatica constituents. Either way, soothing, barrier strengthening action are always welcomed!

INCIDecoder breakdown
ScienceDirect on Aureobasidium Pullulans

EXPERIENCE

USAGE: Alternate every other night as last step with or without my moisturizer.

TEXTURE: Like a thick night cream.

APPLICATION: Without moisturizer – scoop out a nickel-size amount, when applying it looks like there’s a cast forming on your skin. With moisturizer, I applied a thin layer.

SCENT: Herbal.

FINISH: On it’s own with a considerable amount there initially is a casty look. Skin feels moisturized.

SHORT-TERM RESULTS: Without moisturizer – skin is slightly moisturized. With moisturizer – skin feels very comfortable in the dry winter weather.

LONG-TERM RESULTS: The more I used this on its own, the more it stung my face and felt like it wasn’t doing enough to moisturize my skin. I switched to using it after my moisturizer more and I never had an irritating experience after, I also woke up in the morning with very moisturized skin.

FINAL THOUGHTS

The Laneige Cica Sleeping Mask is okay. It didn’t really work for me as a stand-alone since it irritated my skin. It wasn’t until I applied after a layer of moisturizer that I actually noticed its benefits. I’ll call myself out and say I am probably supposed to use sleeping masks like this lol. Reflecting on the INCI list, I wonder if my skin has become that sensitive to Essential Oils and it was really Tea Tree EO that was causing irritation when I applied it sans moisturizer $:\$ I’m just over halfway through the product, so I will finish it but won’t be repurchasing since I have the Glossier Moisturizing Moon Mask to finish up as well. Overall I found it performed pretty well as a barrier mask since I would wake up with very comfortable, moisturized skin ever morning I used it (over moisturizer, that is). If you’re not a fan of the traditional petrolatum as an occlusive because of the greasiness, you may like the Laneige Cica Sleeping Mask instead.

WHERE TO BUY:
Sephora
YesStyle

This post contains affiliate links. If you click on the link and make a purchase, I will receive a small commission. Thank you if you decide to use it! If you feel uncomfortable, feel free to google a new link.

I hope you found this review helpful and informative!

xo, M

REVIEW: I’m From Rice Toner

February 4, 2020 MICHXMASH1 Comment

The last time I reviewed an I’m From product, it was back in 2016 when I experienced some awesome voodoo magic that was their Honey Mask!

Wishtrend sent me their I’m From Rice Toner to try out, and I’m ready to share with you all my thoughts on this product.

Product is a PR sample and provided for review purposes.
All thoughts are my own, always *casts doe patronus*

CLAIMS

This toner is made with 77.78% Rice Extract effective in whitening and elasticity care. The product forms a protective barrier over the skin to prevent water loss, eliminate dead skin cells and provide luster and moisturization to rebalance dry and tired skin.

– Wishtrend

Price: $38 USD
Amount: 150 ml
How to use:
1) Before use, shake well to mix the water and emulsion layers.
2) After cleansing, dispense on a cotton pad and wipe off or press onto dry areas.

Made in Korea
Made for all skin types
Cruelty-free
Free of ethanol, silicone, steroid, artificial colouring, artificial fragrance

INGREDIENTS

Rice extract, Methylpropanediol, Triethylhexanoin, Hydrogenated poly (C6-14 olefin), Niacinamide, Pentylene glycol, Common Purslane extract, Rice bran extract, Japanese elm bark extract, Amaranthus caudatus seed extract, Hydrogenated lecithin, Distilled water, Polyglyceryl-10-myristate, Butylene glycol, Adenosine, Cellulose gum, Ethylhexylglycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol

Total number of ingredients: 18

From my -skinthusiast- perspective…
I’ve mostly heard of the benefits of Rice Extract from other people making anecdotal claims that the traditional -washing your face with Rice Water- helps to soften and brighten the skin, and keeps one looking young. I have also DIYed a Rice Water toner before and while it gets pungent pretty quickly, the first handful of uses I did instantly notice my skin felt soft, moisturized, and looked bright. INCIDecoder unfortunately doesn’t have any solid information to share on Rice Extract, but Paula’s Choice’s ingredient dictionary states the following:

“…rice bran is a rich source of over 100 antioxidant compounds, including vitamin E, ferulic acid, and oryzanol.

The bran also contains moisturizing polysaccharides, omega-3 fatty acids, and micronutrients like calcium, selenium, phosphorus, iron, and zinc.”

Aside from the abundant amount of Rice Extract, I always love me some good ol’ Niacinamide for an extra boost! I’ve said it multiple times and I’ll say it again, Niacinamide is a great multitasking ingredient for brightening, strengthening the skin barrier, and minimizing pores. This toner also is filled with a handful of humectant and emollient ingredients, making it a toner on that will have more of a light residue than a fresh, barely-there finish. In my experience, it would sit between the Klairs Supple Preparation Facial Toner and The Laneige Cream Skin Refiner.

Moisturizing (mix of humectants and emollients): Triethylhexanoin, Hydrogenated poly (C6-14 olefin), Pentylene glycol, Amaranthus caudatus seed extract, Hydrogenated lecithin, Butylene glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol
Antioxidant: Niacinamide, Common Purslane extract
Wound healing: Common Purslane extract, Adenosine

INCIDecoder Breakdown

EXPERIENCE

Packaging: Glass bottle with a small spout.

Usage: Morning and/or evening, applied after cleansing with hands. Would sometimes layer the toner.

Texture: Thin milk.

Fragrance: None.

Finish: Light but moisturizing. Not as moisturizing as the Laneige Cream Skin Refiner.

Instant Results: Skin feels smooth and has a light moisturized film. There have been the odd times my skin felt sensitive after using it.

Long-Term Results: Skin rarely feels rough or dehydrated.

FINAL THOUGHTS

The I’m From Rice Toner reminds me of a more well preserved, enjoyable version of the old school method of DIY Rice Water toner lol. If you’ve ever been interested in that old school way of softening and brightening your complexion, this toner is the easier way to go. I’m not 100% on how much “elasticity care” it can provide, but preventing water loss is always a #1 priority when it comes to preventative aging, and this toner definitely helps to add and maintain skin’s moisture. Overall the I’m From Rice Toner performs well and I’d imagine anyone else using it would enjoy it for what it offers.

WHERE TO BUY:
Wishtrend
YesStyle

Hope you found this review helpful and informative!

xo, M

SKIN UPDATE #3: 1+ Year using Differin

January 29, 2020January 29, 2020 MICHXMASH

Wow, it’s been 1 year since I started using 0.3% Adapalene! Crazy how fast time passes when you get older heheheh….

If you haven’t already, please be sure to read my previous skin updates so you understand what I talk about in this post and other actives I use that I do not mention here.
Skin Update [#1] December 2018: Acne + Scars
Skin Update [#2]: August 2019: My Skin’s Progress so Far!

Breakdown of what I’ve been doing to my skin since my last Skin Update August 2019:

Got too cheeky and started eating eating crappy food and drinking sugary drinks, thus getting breakouts so big that 10% Azelaic Acid couldn’t handle it 🙂
Have repurchased a 5% Benzoyl Peroxide wash which does the job very quickly. However…
Contemplated why I stopped using 5% Dapsone, and realized that the moment I had a mild side effect (redness) I freaked out. I began the purchasing spiral to find an OTC product to help with breakouts, when I could’ve just continued using Dapsone.

ACNE

My cystic breakouts have been on and off. As mentioned in my recap, I’ve been eating shitty food lately, and both my boyfriend and I know the triggers (refined sugar). Since the holidays, I have been cutting back on sugary snacks and drinks. Reflecting back on older photos, my acne is definitely is more under control than it has been in years. Here are some posts for reference when I started 0.1% Adapalene. You’ll notice dark red marks and lots of hormonal breakouts along my jaw:
2018 Skincare Routines
Some By Mi Review

From this year of using many actives (do as I say, not as I do lol), I found that Benzoyl Peroxide in wash form (Benzagel 5 Acne Wash) and my 5% Dapsone gel prescription have been the most effective at treating inflamed acne lesions quickly and making my skin smoother from bumps. I’ll continue using both, mostly 5% Dapsone on my face 2 times a day (as advised) and use the BP wash for emergencies.

PIGMENTATION

Due to the increase in some breakouts, my chin in particular has more red/purple marks than usual. However I don’t find it to bother me much, since Differin really helps to diminish them quickly, alongside an SPF50+ sunscreen. I also find Azelaic Acid has been great in speeding up their healing process. Incorporating it into my routine definitely makes my complexion brighter, more even tone, and assist with fading any pigmentation.

I actually prefer it over Vitamin C serums, which have never shown (in my experience) to help with red acne marks. I currently am near the end of Paula’s Choice 10% Azelaic Acid Booster in my collection, and I don’t plan on getting the unprescribed 15% Finacea any time soon. The PC one while nice is quite expensive and it is difficult to find unprescribed Finacea, even if I look on eBay. I think I need to be patient and either a) ask my Derm about prescribed AA, or b) wait for F.C. from SimpleSkincareScience to launch his AA serum!

ATROPHIC SCARS

And now the big update! Please watch my Youtube video showcasing my scars after a finishing a whole tube of 0.3% Adapalene (over 1 year). I couldn’t for the life of me replicate the exact angle and lighting of my face and it looked different with every photo. The video will give a better idea.

Like I have mentioned here or there, every time I see family and friends, they always compliment how much smoother my skin looks. Usually awful lighting was the teller of all tales for my complexion, and I even notice that my skin looks so much smoother! Although my skin isn’t 100% smooth (I don’t think it will ever be to be honest), the texture has definitely improved for the better with continued use of Differin.

FINAL THOUGHTS + MY PLAN

Although it’s a lengthy process, I’m happy that my skin has been overall improving for the better since starting 0.3% Adapalene. This plus other actives has also given me more mental freedom, and I see myself (literally and figuratively) in a more positive light. The quality of my skin has been a constant focal point in my thoughts for years, and I finally have the clarity to not care about how I look without a face full of makeup.

I already picked up another prescription of Differin, so I will continue to use it. It seems that more evidence is popping up that it can also help with photoaging, so hopefully this will also contribute to my skin’s quality in that aspect. In addition, I will continue to use 5% Dapsone morning and night even if I am lesion free (it’s supposed to help prevent as well), and book an appointment with my derm if I ever have concerns.

Now that I have finally used up a full tube of Differin, I am going to FINALLY start microneedling again to speed up the healing process of my atrophic scars and to help prevent my subtle fine lines from getting worse. I know I mentioned this in my last skin update, but I decided to just see what topicals solely did for my scars.

As always, I hope you found my post helpful and informative.

xo, M

SUNSCREEN SUNDAY #8: Dermalogica Prisma Protect SPF 30 Moisturizer

January 26, 2020January 27, 2020 MICHXMASHLeave a comment

Product is a PR Sample provided for review purposes.
All opinions are my own, always *casts doe patronus*

DERMALOGICA PRISMA PROTECT SPF 30 MOISTURIZER

Light-activated multitasking moisturizer provides broad spectrum defense while preventing future signs of skin damage. Intelligent drone technology is activated by visible light to help boost skin’s natural luminosity. Breakthrough antioxidant technology helps protect skin against pollution. Broad Spectrum Defense SPF30 provides protection from UV damage, while a bio-ferment from sage helps maintain an even skin tone. Advanced moisture magnets provide all-day hydration for visibly smooth skin.

Gluten-free
Vegan
No artificial fragrances and colours
Paraben-free
Cruelty-free

Price: $89 CAD
Amount: 50ml

UV FILTERS & INGREDIENTS:

Type: Organic / Chemical
Homosalate 10%
Octocrylene 10%
Ethylhexyl Salicylate (Octisalate) 5%
Avobenzone 3%

Protection: UVA/UVB
Strength: SPF 30

FULL INGREDIENTS LIST:

Water/Aqua/Eau, Silica, Butylene Glycol, Ethylhexyl Salicylate, Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, Coconut Alkanes, Dimethicone, Glycerin, Dimethyl Capramide, Polyglyceryl-2 Stearate, VP/Eicosene Copolymer, Chlorella Vulgaris Extract, Palmitoyl Oligopeptide, Saccharide Isomerate, Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Oil, Sclareolide, Tocopherol, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Glyceryl Stearate SE, PEG-100 Stearate, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Arachidyl Alcohol, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Behenyl Alcohol, Benzyl Alcohol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Xanthan Gum, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Arachidyl Glucoside, Ethylhexylglycerin, Methicone, Sodium Hydroxide, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Citric Acid, Sodium Citrate, Caprylyl Glycol, Propanediol, Geraniol, Limonene, Citral, Polyvinyl Alcohol, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Phenoxyethanol

From my -skinthusiast- perspective…

From my understanding, Drone Technology refers to encapsulating an ingredient for better penetration into the skin. There are a few beneficial antioxidants in the formula such as Green Tea Leaf Extract and Vitamin E, as well as Palmitoyl Oligopeptide for anti-aging that I suspect may be the encapsulated ingredients. In terms of luminosity, there’s no standout ingredient to tell me this would add a luminous boost other than the fact that there are more than a handful of moisturizing ingredients to help achieve the look.

UPDATE JAN. 27, 2020: getthegloss.com has more insight into the Drone Technology and light-activating properties of this sunscreen:
https://www.getthegloss.com/news/dermalogica-prisma-protect-spf30-review

Moisturizing (humectants, emollients): Butylene Glycol, Coconut Alkanes, Dimethicone, Glycerin, Arachidyl Alcohol, Behenyl Alcohol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Methicone, Caprylyl Glycol
Antioxidant: Tocopherol, Camelllia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate
Peptide: Palmitoyl Oligopeptide

INCIDecoder breakdown

EXPERIENCE

PACKAGING: Tube with squeeze spout.

CONSISTENCY: Cream.

FRAGRANCE: Ginger Root Oil, Geraniol, Linomene, Citral. It’s a very light scent and not unpleasant. Smells like a high-end Western SPF.

APPLICATION: Glides on skin very easily.

FINISH: As the product describes, luminous. Not too much and not too little.

FEEL: It’s like I added extra moisturizer on my skin. My face feels a bit hot.

STINGS EYES? Yes.

WHITECAST / TINTED? No.

WATER RESISTANT? No.

SKIN BENEFITS?
Adds extra moisture to the skin, has antioxidants from vitamin E and Green Tea Leaf Extract to protect skin against free radicals, and Palmitoyl Oligopeptide to help with skin’s firmness.

UNDER MAKEUP:
Currently in winter mode, this SPF feels great under makeup and doesn’t dry out my face.

FINAL THOUGHTS

PROS:

As expected from Dermalogica, cosmetically elegant
Provides extra moisture and some preventative aging benefits
Any skin type can use it, you would just havee to adjust it accordingly in your skincare routine

CONS:

$$$$$$
Skin felt heated shortly after application

IN-BETWEEN FEELS

As mentioned in prior posts, I’m more of an SPF50+ kinda gal. For the price I really would’ve liked to see that in a Dermalogica sunscreen.

Overall the Dermalogica Prisma Protect SPF 30 Moisturizer is a decent sunscreen. It’s not my typical go to because of the price and the UV filters, but for a North American sunscreen it performs very well; It is definitely not as greasy as other Avobenzone sunscreens I have tried and I found it moisturizing. There are definitely affordable options with better UV filters if you’re willing to purchases internationally, but if Dermalogica is in your price point and you want a nice-feeling Western sunscreen with organic UV filters, the Prisma Protect SPF 30 is it.

WHERE TO BUY:
Sephora

This is an affiliate link. If you click on this link and make a purchase, I earn a small commission. Thank you so much if you decide to use it! If you feel uncomfortable, feel free to google a new link.

Hope you found this post helpful and informative!

xo, M

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