tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-189190232024-03-18T19:57:48.030-07:00RamblingsWhen I'm old and toothless, I hope to be lucid enough to access this collection of memories and smile.Duckyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11163256257296903307noreply@blogger.comBlogger54125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18919023.post-74248332194225162032017-12-07T20:06:00.001-08:002017-12-07T20:06:51.353-08:00Review: The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEmvi3YybVor4PzW62OgrTyq8AkCQpCc3mdyC0S_CortBWO3UC-AE69j73PLuRZvKjZtvdHxn4O-L6giIWeB7pYv04dVLUSJdUF0RamqC8NPs4wD1cJzOyW4XCiEoJz2phZB-y/s1600/The+Ordinary+Azelaic+Acid+Suspension.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1196" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEmvi3YybVor4PzW62OgrTyq8AkCQpCc3mdyC0S_CortBWO3UC-AE69j73PLuRZvKjZtvdHxn4O-L6giIWeB7pYv04dVLUSJdUF0RamqC8NPs4wD1cJzOyW4XCiEoJz2phZB-y/s320/The+Ordinary+Azelaic+Acid+Suspension.JPG" title="The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%" width="239" /></a></div>
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As a longtime user of chemical exfoliants I have no fear when it comes to trying out new products in the same category because I don't have overly sensitive skin. However, it finally met its match in the <a href="http://duckymuffin.blogspot.com/2016/02/review-curology-formerly-pocketderm.html">Curology</a> formulas I've previously blogged about. Even with sparing use and two years to adjust my skin around the nostrils/mouth was constantly losing the fight, flaking left and right and making my foundation look splotchy by mid-day (ew -_-). </div>
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In the end I started feeling neutral (and a bit bored?) about the benefits vs negatives of Curology so I decided to give myself a break and replace it with something new. (Yes, I do have a wandering eye hoo hoo.) The tretinoin ingredient in the Curology lotion was definitely the culprit for the unattractive skin shedding so I figured something with <b>azelaic acid</b>, the other active ingredient, would be a good option to explore. Azelaic acid is known to be <b>anti-bacterial</b> and <b>anti-inflammatory</b> so good for treating acne, rosacea, inflammation and other skin issues. </div>
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There are Rx strength azelaic acid creams out there (hello
20%) but I didn't want to start so strong or spend $300+ O_O. Googling for azelaic acid products brought me to <b><a href="http://theordinary.com/product/rdn-azelaic-acid-suspension-10pct-30ml">The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%</a></b>. I actually hadn't heard of this Canadian brand before but my online research showed a lot of positive social media buzz for its straightforward formulas and low prices. I'm not on Instagram or Twitter so I rarely go for products due to online popularity. When I saw the marketing material for the brand, I did roll my eyes a bit. The larger company it's under, <a href="http://deciem.com/company">DECIEM</a>, has a website with sweet graphics but it just seemed like another marketing gimmick to say "Oooh we're so clinical and science-based and our ingredients are awesome" when they look the same as any other company. Plus, the constant insertion of periods after non-sentences just rubbed me the wrong way. "The Ordinary." "The Abnormal Beauty Company." "Clinical Formulations with Integrity." </div>
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The <b>low price points</b> are definitely a plus, though, so I was still interested in giving them a shot. I'm a fan of cheap skincare because even when a product doesn't work well I'm not out too much $ (and it's more fodder for this blog).</div>
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Azelaic acid is a chemical exfoliant with both BHA and AHA properties. I like me a good BHA but have had mixed results with AHA so I don't currently use any chemical exfoliants besides <a href="http://duckymuffin.blogspot.com/2015/01/review-paulas-choice-skin-perfecting-2.html">Paula's Choice's version</a>. I was glad to explore azelaic acid since it would let me dip my toes back into the AHA pool without having to get drenched. My skin is acne-prone and azelaic acid supposedly fights blemishes by being <b>antibacterial </b>and<b> reducing keratin production</b>. We naturally make keratin to tough up our outer skin layer but too much of this protein can clog pores and increase acne. Another benefit of azelaic acid is the <b>brightening </b>effect it can have on pigmented spots. I have so many from old breakouts I never say no to more brightening! It also has <b>antioxidant </b>behaviors so those looking for anti-aging will benefit, too.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS01BzbJIm3u5UmwMCSgRPOgObO1SfRjU8RGrbn-dbEbQAyh3sUhAgujVtmVx4V1oBocJx9EH4-fl2X5vJCDlrbDqvBr077x3Skx-zj3kOg0CQyBKcJLijoEjZECpOu5ZtVakV/s1600/The+Ordinary+Azealic+Acid+Suspension+Flip+Cap.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1196" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS01BzbJIm3u5UmwMCSgRPOgObO1SfRjU8RGrbn-dbEbQAyh3sUhAgujVtmVx4V1oBocJx9EH4-fl2X5vJCDlrbDqvBr077x3Skx-zj3kOg0CQyBKcJLijoEjZECpOu5ZtVakV/s320/The+Ordinary+Azealic+Acid+Suspension+Flip+Cap.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
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This Azelaic Acid Suspension comes in a soft plastic tube with a sturdy and convenient flip cap. It's opaque to probably reduce product degradation but I like transparent containers so I can judge when I'm running low. The design is very "grown-up" and looks like a medication rather than OTC skincare. It's bland but clean.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTS4To2F2Kw14JwogUYJ4pRClYpJUca1z5kpCykZyDZXwLl2nWa_rm4YePjKJbqFkpQe2kktowz076rJe-kwBxAgOhL7g5SRfgODhgW_hZJNgtxed3yFH0woF6uHhf7HdfESaq/s1600/The+Ordinary+Azealic+Acid+Suspension+Cream.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1196" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTS4To2F2Kw14JwogUYJ4pRClYpJUca1z5kpCykZyDZXwLl2nWa_rm4YePjKJbqFkpQe2kktowz076rJe-kwBxAgOhL7g5SRfgODhgW_hZJNgtxed3yFH0woF6uHhf7HdfESaq/s320/The+Ordinary+Azealic+Acid+Suspension+Cream.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
There's no scent to this thick white cream and it has a very
spreadable texture so a little goes a long way. The 30 mL is a pretty
small size but given the below $8 price tag we should be forgiving.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHQY6Ohphm0fpKCpPzyVRPCG_-IZvgQ2Fb8gXb_G71oWf9gwbkMCfmV2A3edKofhjw4ebjoQW2te7cI-5nhZHh0ZJWRhDHZSxmxxgcTfvjAiLbBxDIqBdr6_I-3CKPIIBNrDx7/s1600/The+Ordinary+Azealic+Acid+Suspension+Texture.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1196" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHQY6Ohphm0fpKCpPzyVRPCG_-IZvgQ2Fb8gXb_G71oWf9gwbkMCfmV2A3edKofhjw4ebjoQW2te7cI-5nhZHh0ZJWRhDHZSxmxxgcTfvjAiLbBxDIqBdr6_I-3CKPIIBNrDx7/s320/The+Ordinary+Azealic+Acid+Suspension+Texture.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
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The ingredients list is free of alcohol & oil and has a pH of 4 to 5 according to the website. <span style="font-size: x-small;">(I wonder why they don't list a more exact pH because a range of 1.0 is huge in terms of pH... makes me wonder if their product is so inconsistent they have to give themselves wiggle room?)</span> <a href="http://cosdna.com/eng/cosmetic_8f09260134.html">CosDNA</a> confirms no xanthan gum (thank goodness because this gum hates me) and the only acne triggers are rated "2"s. Sweet!<br />
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I used this product at night after cleansing + essence and before my final moisturizer (<a href="http://duckymuffin.blogspot.com/2015/03/review-benton-snail-bee-high-content.html">Benton's snail steam cream</a>) for about two weeks. Why only two weeks? Because I didn't realize this azelaic acid cream would be a one-way ticket to Breakout City =(<br />
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My forehead rarely freaks out so it's a good gauge of whether a product is really blowing up my skin or I just happen to be coincidentally blemish-prone at the time. Unfortunately, this azelaic acid cream left me with angry pimples within days. I gave it a bit more time before calling it quits (I foolishly hoped it was only a purging I need to be patient with) but when I reviewed CosDNA once more I realized I was better off stopping immediately. I have this bad habit of forgetting my love/hate relationship with silicones. A little extra slip in my skincare is always appreciated but when there's more than a few and they feature a lil bit too prominently (dimethicone is actually listed BEFORE the azelaic acid!) my skin rebels. The only bright spot was no skin shedding but I'll take that over breakouts any day.<br />
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It's possible the order I apply my nighttime products could make a difference. If this cream was my last step and I didn't use anything else to smother it (like a heavy moisturizer) maybe I'd have fared better. Or perhaps I could have applied it after cleansing, waited an hour or two, cleansed once more and then went on like normal with my other essences/serums/creams but DUDE this is a lot of work (I am a lazy ducky) and there's no guarantee things would improve. Instead of being a tourist to Breakout Land I could end up elected mayor LOL.<br />
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I briefly tried using this product as a <b>spot-treatment</b> because I figured that would lighten up the silicone load and for those super deep/painful lesions I'm already inflamed so what harm could it do? But alas it was not to be. My non-treated lesions progressed normally and the test spot <b>took even longer than usual</b> <b>to heal</b> blehhh...<br />
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So conclusion is that this product is <u>not for me</u>. Azaleic acid is still an amazing substance but not when it's housed in silicones like The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%. I will continue the search for a cleaner serum that my face can handle while others get to rave about this one. :-/<br />
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<b>Summary:</b></div>
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<li>Packaging: 4/5 (professional design & sturdy; a bit boring)</li>
<li>Smell: 5/5 (none, woot!)</li>
<li>Performance: 1/5 (broke me out & slowed down healing; not drying)</li>
<li>Value/Price: 5/5 (<a href="http://theordinary.com/product/rdn-azelaic-acid-suspension-10pct-30ml">$8</a> is <i>super </i>cheap for a typically pricey ingredient)</li>
<li><b>Recommend? Maybe </b>(for folks without sensitive skin & silicone issues)</li>
<li><b>Repurchase? Nope to the nope</b></li>
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<br />Duckyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11163256257296903307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18919023.post-18276006421889953812017-09-13T15:33:00.008-07:002023-02-18T00:05:51.771-08:00Review: the SAEM Healing Tea Garden Tea tree Cleansing Water<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu0OUiOGwauxx2IPMAbalb9ya2zMnP1ya4q9H6qoxme095LhPCKddmrWrQIC9LfUj8t6wHbghwnUMngn0mrW-EEW6shhYMhVD24Ds_30q00eKOUSmfMXrYZnPV7tpid3nXMwm3/s1600/photo+1.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1140" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu0OUiOGwauxx2IPMAbalb9ya2zMnP1ya4q9H6qoxme095LhPCKddmrWrQIC9LfUj8t6wHbghwnUMngn0mrW-EEW6shhYMhVD24Ds_30q00eKOUSmfMXrYZnPV7tpid3nXMwm3/s320/photo+1.JPG" title="the SAEM healing tea garden tea tree cleansing water" width="227" /></a></div>
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One of the Korean brands I've become acquainted with since I started my skincare blogging is <a href="http://thesaemus.com/">the SAEM</a>, a modest brand with both skincare and make-up products at really decent pricing. They don't have US locations other than NY (so I'm out of luck) but they have a strong presence on my favorite online retailers (RoseRoseShop, Cosmetic Love, eBay, etc). </div>
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As much as I liked the ARITAUM cleansing water I blogged about last year (see <a href="http://duckymuffin.blogspot.com/2016/03/review-aritaum-aloe-no-wash-cleansing.html">post</a>) I was attracted to the SAEM's Healing Tea Garden<a href="http://">http://</a> line of cleansing waters, specifically the tea tree version, when I saw it for sale on Cosmetic Love. (It also comes in Green Tea and White Tea). Some folks feel tea tree has too strong an herbal scent but I like it just fine and don't mind the boost of anti-inflammation tea tree offers to my skin. Even though there are more concentrated tea tree oil products out there for acne I like the idea of a cleansing water that also fights breakouts.</div>
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The 300 ml bottle is a perfect size because it's generous enough to last me a while but also small enough I can finish up quickly if I dislike it or want to try something new. There's a <b>flip cap</b> with a round dispenser I found too small for my tastes so I habitually transferred the cleansing water to a smaller bottle with a wider mouth (but that's just my quirk). I like the bottle label design with its pretty graphics, soothing colors and elegant look. <br />
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Ingredients are non-offensive and there are no major acne triggers according to <a href="http://cosdna.com/eng/cosmetic_75f4232096.html">CosDNA</a>. The company website proudly mentions "No Artificial Pigment, No Synthetic Fragrance, No Benzophenone, No Paraben, No Animal Ingredients, No Mineral Oil, No Talc" on many of its products and this cleansing water is no exception.<br />
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As for the scent... tea tree oil is <b>pretty smelly</b> so if your nose is sensitive then stay away! I like herbal-scented products but if it's not your cup of tea this cleansing water might be a bit overwhelming. While the smell fades quickly it's not subtle at all. The texture and look of this product is exactly like water (maybe bubbles up a smidge more) so I'm not posting any additional pictures. You can just imagine the appearance of water on skin ^__^<br />
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So how did I use this cleansing water? In the mornings before washing my face I'd dispense a generous amount onto a cotton pad and gently soak/rub away the leftover acne products I applied the night before. I'm a big sulfur addict when it comes to acne spot treaments (like <a href="http://duckymuffin.blogspot.com/2015/09/review-mizon-ac-care-solution-acence.html">Mizon's pink one</a>) and always end up with dried clumpy areas on my face in the AM. As useful as I find cleansing waters I still prefer wash-off skincare and would only use this product for temporary cleansing before I bring in the big guns (oil and/or foaming cleanser). Therefore I can't comment on how it is as a stand-alone cleanser or make-up remover, sorry! <br />
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<b>My breakouts didn't improve</b> once I added this cleansing water to my line-up but I didn't expect them to since I have pretty stubborn hormonal acne. The tea tree oil ingredient is too far down the list to make a difference (especially since it doesn't stay on my face for long). Performance is fine for my low-demand needs and I can definitely recommend this cleansing water for others looking for an inexpensive and solid product.<br />
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Overall I liked the SAEM's Healing Tea Garden Tea tree Cleansing Water enough to purchase a second bottle. The price is the most attractive part but this product is worth considering if you like tea tree or have acne and want to ensure your skincare has more anti-inflammatory ingredients.<br />
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<b>Summary:</b></div>
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<li>Packaging: 4/5 (pretty & sturdy but I don't love the cap)</li>
<li>Smell: 4/5 (herbal scent is strong but fades fast)</li>
<li>Performance: 4/5 (does its job but no improvement in breakouts)</li>
<li>Value/Price: 5/5 ($10 on eBay, $3.25+shipping <a href="https://cosmetic-love.com/products/the-saem-healing-tea-garden-tea-tree-cleansing-water-300ml">Cosmetic Love</a>, $3.75 + shipping <a href="https://www.roseroseshop.com/thesaem-healing-tea-garden-cleansing-water.html">RRS</a>)</li>
<li><b>Recommend? Yes </b>(for folks without sensitive noses)</li>
<li><b>Repurchase? Yes </b>(already did!)</li>
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Duckyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11163256257296903307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18919023.post-74849505862259581062017-06-07T15:37:00.001-07:002017-06-12T12:27:31.358-07:00Review: OST Original Pure Vitamin C20 Serum (aka TIAM C20 My Signature C Source)<br />
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Acne is a double whammy. As any afflicted victim knows, the active lesions are only Part 1 in this tragic affair. The leftover hyperpigmentation is Part 2, the gift that keeps on giving as it slo-o-owly fades over weeks and months. Most days I leave the house with full foundation but even if I was a beauty guru (which I'm not!) make-up can only go so far to hide dark spots. I already use chemical exfoliants to speed up the healing process and I gravitate towards products with ingredients like niacinamide and arbutin (superstars for further brightening) but I always welcome more pigment-busting agents that can lighten acne souvenirs more quickly.<br />
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Over the last few years I've turned to serums with vitamin C like the popular <b><a href="http://www.wishtrend.com/skin-care/502-vitamin-c20-serum-ost.html">OST Original Pure Vitamin C20 Serum (aka TIAM C20 My Signature C Source now)</a> </b>and its updated version: <a href="http://www.wishtrend.com/skin-care/1215-pure-vitamin-c215-advanced-serum-by-wishtrend.html"><b>Pure Vitamin C21.5 Advanced Serum</b></a>. The main benefit I'm seeking is the brightening effect but vitamin C is also great for collagen synthesis (yay plump skin!) and repairing sun damage so the aging prevention is a nice bonus.<br />
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Both versions come in 20 mL dark brown glass bottles with a rubber-tipped dropper. These cool little bottles have a great vintage feel, especially after you remove the label, add your own and/or replace the dropper with corks. (I've collected all my used ones because I'm a pack rat that's convinced I can DIY something with them in the future! =) OST recently changed the original formula name and packaging to "TIAM C20 My Signature C Source" (the ingredients are identical) and my photos reflect the previous/original labels.<br />
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The best way to slow oxidation is to keep the serum in the fridge or at least a cool + dark location. When oxidation occurs the pale yellow color becomes a darker orange and you know it's time to replace the product. I've noticed the serum stays a pale yellow longer than 3 months if I keep it refrigerated but it's still advised to use it up within 3 months of opening. Anything beyond is probably riskier, like eating expired food... we've all done it without problems but that one time it really matters you end up with diarrhea so best to be safe.... >_<<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAdUHZTVm1BVHDZXb8DqnL7ZKp7oZg5Qbm0gHePwrCuNIJLvj2locq8aMzgF-ERW3uRibM0wApkJ-h6frluQYB8o-sU_49K7pE1Q94ktYemgU2TIR5vUvUm2so827kGSDCDSmN/s1600/photo+1+%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1196" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAdUHZTVm1BVHDZXb8DqnL7ZKp7oZg5Qbm0gHePwrCuNIJLvj2locq8aMzgF-ERW3uRibM0wApkJ-h6frluQYB8o-sU_49K7pE1Q94ktYemgU2TIR5vUvUm2so827kGSDCDSmN/s320/photo+1+%25283%2529.JPG" title="OST Vitamin C20 serum" width="239" /></a></div>
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The ingredients list for both OST versions vary. <a href="http://cosdna.com/eng/cosmetic_70c5183047.html">C21.5</a> has a <i>much </i>shorter one without the alcohol or parabens found in <a href="http://cosdna.com/eng/cosmetic_0dad253137.html">C20 </a>so many consider it an improvement. The "21.5" refers to the 21.5% of Vitamin C within the formula and I suppose an extra measly 1.5% counts in the fight against hyperpigmentation but I wouldn't consider that a huge reason to pick it over the C20.<br />
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There's a slight citrus + alcohol smell that fades quickly if that's not your thing. The texture is thinner with the C21.5 so absorption is supposed to be better but after trying both formulas I feel both leave a <b>sticky texture</b> regardless so it's up to the user which feels best. Do you want runnier or thicker? (shrug) <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPyZkLgscuuzVyz1RVGOiYJTOVpKc7wsbwk_sOEwIvXJJMMNZZIk6i-9acxri5irbrPpBxsBDKwG3W1mctrvInK6o5qIy8GIptsxjDR6uv6DvnmDIYpsIUtHrRIgDfgNdnzx9s/s1600/photo+2+%25284%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1196" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPyZkLgscuuzVyz1RVGOiYJTOVpKc7wsbwk_sOEwIvXJJMMNZZIk6i-9acxri5irbrPpBxsBDKwG3W1mctrvInK6o5qIy8GIptsxjDR6uv6DvnmDIYpsIUtHrRIgDfgNdnzx9s/s200/photo+2+%25284%2529.JPG" title="OST Vitamin C20 serum" width="149" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3sR_ATlKPx7pGscZbPHOYcAPKp8ghKFzpAfGXXRHGAbsjhaNDwVXzaYvGSw7njowich1L6xAQIbXca1VE7J4P_WIpYlIQwwZQG3sP_44M4AkmGtGnh7tASNCIZKhLc5ThTXjm/s1600/photo+3+%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1196" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3sR_ATlKPx7pGscZbPHOYcAPKp8ghKFzpAfGXXRHGAbsjhaNDwVXzaYvGSw7njowich1L6xAQIbXca1VE7J4P_WIpYlIQwwZQG3sP_44M4AkmGtGnh7tASNCIZKhLc5ThTXjm/s200/photo+3+%25283%2529.JPG" title="OST Vitamin C20 serum" width="149" /></a></div>
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I tried both formulas on and off over the course of a year. At first I needed to apply an essence before the vitamin C serum so the extra buffer would keep stinging to a minimum. Eventually my face became less sensitive and I could apply directly after cleansing with only minimal tingling. The burning was usually worse when I had broken skin/breakouts or my skin just felt extra touchy. In the end my wallet made the executive decision to stick with the C20
because <b>C21.5 costs more $$</b> and I wasn't concerned with the different
ingredient list. <br />
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Since I use a BHA in the mornings I saved my vitamin C serum for afternoon after I washed off my make-up. In the evenings I'd cleanse my face again (usually after working out) so this product probably only stayed on my face several hours max per use. In general I was too lazy to use the product every day because I didn't want to make the trip to and from the fridge where I stored it. ^_^ I suppose I would have been more motivated to apply it more than ~3x/week if I saw really great results but I always considered this product a "something-I-should-be-using" skincare item rather than a Holy Grail.<br />
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Eventually I made the decision to stop completely because I went through 2 months without using any (ran out and didn't buy more) and felt my<b> skin was either the same or better without the serum</b> in regards to breakouts and hyperpigmentation.<br />
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<u><i>Warning: ramblings to follow... skip to the bottom to avoid text heavy ranting!</i></u></div>
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During those 2 months I neglected the OST serum my chin was smoother and I rarely got cystic breakouts (the large and hard variety that take weeks to smooth out). I didn't realize it wasn't coincidental until I re-started the serum and <b>my skin became more troubled again</b>! It took nearly a month of frantic doubt<span style="font-size: x-small;"> ("Was it the extra ice-cream from 2 weeks ago? Costco parmesan cheese chips?! Extra helping of tofu at dinner?!</span>) where I assumed my face was just taking revenge for my yummy but unhealthy food choices. In the end, though, it was too much of a dramatic turnaround for me to accept so I kept sniffing around. I got back to basics and re-checked the ingredient lists for everything I was slapping on my face including the OST serums and lo-and-behold.....<br />
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... <b>My old enemy xanthan gum!</b> O__O It was innocently inserted midway down the ingredient lists of both formulas and pinged my radar because it's something I'm actively trying to purge from my diet and skincare. I previously <a href="http://duckymuffin.blogspot.com/2017/01/ramblings-my-acne-triggers.html">posted </a>about my negative reactions to this thickening agent and keep randomly running into it. It's an annoying surprise to see it pop up in products I assumed were free of acne triggers because I only used CosDNA and looked for highlighted ingredients without reading the actual list. Xanthan gum doesn't get categorized as being comedogenic and I'm sure others have zero issues with this thickening agent but I react poorly to it whether it's in food or skincare products. For me, it's a frenemy that seems honest on the surface (oh here, lemme help smooth out your serum) but knifes you in the back (or face) with inflammation. =(<br />
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At the end of the day I'm dumping out my OST serums (waaah) and going to continue to searching for other skincare goodies to lighten dark spots. Even if my hyperpigmentation faded quicker this serum was simultaneously creating more so I'm never re-purchasing. I'm not closing the door on vitamin C products but I'm going to triple check in the future they don't contain xanthan gum.<br />
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<b>Summary:</b></div>
<ul>
<li>Packaging: 5/5 (hygienic; elegant; prevents oxidation)</li>
<li>Smell: 4/5 (mild alcohol scent but also citrus-y yum)</li>
<li>Performance: 1/5 (breaks me out boo)</li>
<li>Value/Price: 4/5 ($14-15 + free shipping on eBay/<a href="http://www.wishtrend.com/skin-care/502-vitamin-c20-serum-ost.html">Wishtrend </a>for 30mL; <a href="http://www.wishtrend.com/skin-care/1215-pure-vitamin-c215-advanced-serum-by-wishtrend.html">$25 for C21.5</a>)</li>
<li><b>Recommend? Maybe</b> (for folks who aren't sensitive to xanthan gum or alcohol)</li>
<li><b>Repurchase? Nope </b>(Begone!)</li>
</ul>
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Duckyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11163256257296903307noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18919023.post-2040754496634488492017-01-29T15:26:00.001-08:002017-01-29T15:26:49.983-08:00Ramblings: My Acne Triggers<br />
My reviews usually touch on skincare products and their positive/negative effects on my acne but <b>diet has a huge role</b> in how bad my breakouts get (probably the same for most acne-prone duckies). Last year I was having a good time enjoying my smoother skin (thanks <a href="http://duckymuffin.blogspot.com/2016/02/review-curology-formerly-pocketderm.html">Curology</a>!) but then hit a rough patch where cystic acne around my chin/mouth begin rearing up again.<br />
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Initially I was horrified my complexion may have gotten "used to" my acne products and I needed to try something new <gloomy face> but then I begin brainstorming whether I'd changed anything in my diet that could account for this downturn and came to some surprising conclusions.<br />
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I started re-reading the ingredient labels in everything I was consuming, really thinking hard about each item and realized that over the previous few weeks I'd been drinking way more <b>soy milk</b> -- as a cereal companion and just solo. Cutting cow milk out a few years ago cleared up 90% of my body acne and I always attributed this to the positive effects of reducing my hormone consumption but what could soy milk be doing to me?? Soy milk was supposed to be the more "healthy" substitute! Besides, I'd been drinking it since cutting away regular milk so why were things worsening now?<br />
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Well, it turns out switching to Costco's Kirkland Signature soy milk was the turning point. This brand uses <b>carrageenan</b>, a common food additive that thickens and binds ingredients. Since it's derived from seaweed, carrageenan is considered "safe" but animal <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/?term=carrageenan+inflammation+gut">studies</a> have linked it to <b>inflammation </b>in the gut and other issues. A little online exploration showed me it's actually controversial enough now many food items will sport "No Carrageenan" labels. <br />
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Folks with acne tend to have higher levels of<b> systemic inflammation</b> and I'm not surprised that along with breakouts I've always been prone to IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) symptoms. I'm the person who eats dinner at a restaurant with a group of friends and ends up the only one with diarrhea afterwards. Even when I share food from the same plate with someone else they'll be fine but I'm stuck with cramps. If gut inflammation promotes acne inflammation then I was only throwing fuel on the fire with the carrageenan-laced soy milk. >_< <br />
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And then came another awful realization.... </div>
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I'd seen carrageenan before listed on <a href="http://cosdna.com/eng/609e0f881.html">CosDNA.</a> It has a "5" rating (the highest) for an acne trigger and if I'd actually bothered to remember this earlier I could have made the connection I shouldn't be drinking it at all. If it's no good for my skin then consuming it orally was probably beating up my gut. <forehead slap><br />
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Through internet research I realized <b>soy </b>itself can be another <b>acne trigger</b> because it contains plant hormones (phytoestrogens) that mimic our human hormones to the point the body might be confused between the two and decide "Hey! I don't need to produce as much estrogen because I've got enough circulating about already." Low levels of estrogen are associated with (surprise, surprise) acne. To be fair, there were some online comments about soy helping a lucky few in their acne troubles but those appeared rare and I'm never that lucky.<br />
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My first reaction: "WAIT, if I cut out soy milk then what will I eat cereal with?!" (That question has still not been answered satisfactorily haha) Right now I'm eating cereal dry because it's forever a beloved snack and no, I will not use water instead per my unhelpful friend's suggestion.<br />
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Second reaction: Maybe other common food additives that serve as thickening agents (<b>xanthan gum, acacia gum, locust </b>or <b>carob bean gum</b>, <b>gum arabic</b>, etc) are problematic, too? I googled each of them along with "and acne" as search terms and found random commenters stating they experienced a link between eating them and extra breakouts. In general, thought, I couldn't find any concrete studies specifically investigating connection between them and acne. It doesn't make sense to just lump all of these polysaccharides (sugars)
together but to be safe I'm going to avoid them in the future anyway. I have one particularly personal experience that inclines me towards a "better safe than sorry" attitude.<br />
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During all the brainstorming and furious online research I made the connection that the <a href="http://duckymuffin.blogspot.com/2015/11/review-cosrx-bha-blackhead-power-liquid.html">COSRX BHA Liquid</a> I reviewed in 2015 (the one that broke me out terribly) has.... wait for it... <b>xanthan gum</b>! <insert dramatic music> My bottle was long disposed of but I looked up the ingredients once more on cosDNA and it appeared towards the end of the list. I consider this further confirmation that these food additives are off-limits to me and my crappy gut. Many are derived from "natural" things, like plants, so I've never questioned if they're right for me or not but I have no problem reading a few extra ingredient labels from now on if it'll save my complexion. <br />
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I already eat very little sugar/processed junk so it's no huge change to
my diet to stay away from the food bars, chocolates, desserts, etc that
contain these thickeners. Over the years I've lost my sweet tooth (thank goodness)
and now stick to fruit if I ever have a craving. Every day I'm surprised at how common these additives can be and I'm torn between feeling accomplished that I'm able to avoid them versus betrayed that I've already consumed so many over the years. I guess they're too cheap not to use when companies need a way to bind certain ingredients or promote a specific texture in food.<br />
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I'm going to keep an ear out to see if anyone else feels <b>xanthan gum</b> or any of the other additives act as acne triggers. Most people obviously consume them without issue but I'm not most boohoo... It's like falling down a rabbit hole as I read about all kinds of gut inflammation theories or why my body hates food and makes acne its revenge. If I cut out everything that's supposedly an acne trigger I'd starve to death!<br />
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As of now it's only been a few months that I've limited my soy intake and I'm still not certain I can stop eating it completely. My precious <b>tofu</b>, a favorite staple in Asian culture, is too much of a comfort food for me to eliminate at the moment. <b>Soy lecithin</b> is in so much as well (check your labels, it really is). My game plan is to stop consuming as much as possible and then if my complexion makes positive gains I'll slowly introduce a bit back at a time. Maybe in a few months I can provide a happy update!<br />
<br />Duckyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11163256257296903307noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18919023.post-33463447206108742112016-12-15T18:54:00.000-08:002016-12-15T20:45:00.470-08:00Review: ARITAUM Aloe No-Wash Cleansing Tissue<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMvU8VvUFFKopCvLW1oIPNd1pZ4z-SuIBVK3zcFOVpx298qy6K2-hwGF49_JKcsRcwtJDLKfaVRWO4pBwpksIQyBiUJm_DlG4biR87nep8wZtg4WA2rm4vuxPAgbWh8AO4RUyM/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img alt="Aritaum aloe cleansing tissue" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMvU8VvUFFKopCvLW1oIPNd1pZ4z-SuIBVK3zcFOVpx298qy6K2-hwGF49_JKcsRcwtJDLKfaVRWO4pBwpksIQyBiUJm_DlG4biR87nep8wZtg4WA2rm4vuxPAgbWh8AO4RUyM/s320/photo+1.JPG" title="" width="239" /></a></div>
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Cleansing water is an important part of my morning routine when I need to gently remove the acne spot treatments I applied the night before. I still use my favorite CeraVe cleanser afterwards but I always like to get rid of the dried pink sulfur spots first (no more chicken pox face to scare kids!). My current go-to cleansing water is ARITAUM's version (reviewed <a href="http://duckymuffin.blogspot.com/2016/03/review-aritaum-aloe-no-wash-cleansing.html">here</a>) for it's efficacy, price and non-offensive ingredients/odor. </div>
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The others I've come across are also dependable but either cost too much (Dr. Jart Plus Dermaclear Micro Water is $32 yikes!) or smell too much (Etude House Real Art = grandma's perfume). I've considered picking up Garnier's Micellar Cleansing Water because it's super cheap but I'm wary of its potential acne-triggering hexylene glycol (a "2" on the CosDNA scale). That's why when I decided to buy a tissue/wipe version I went straight for ARITAUM's version, the <b><a href="https://www.roseroseshop.com/aritaum-aloe-no-wash-cleansing-tissues.html">Aloe No-Wash Cleansing Tissue</a>.</b></div>
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I never really saw the need for cleansing tissues because if I'm going to clean my face I'm going to do it <i>for real</i> with actual washing (water + lathered product + motion). However, I've picked up Zumba classes lately and want a portable way to get rid of sweat before I get home for the real cleanse. I always go with a bare face (no make-up & light moisturizer only) so a cleansing water is definitely appropriate but who wants to haul a large bottle back and forth and also remember the cotton pads, too??</div>
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<b>Enter cleansing tissues!</b></div>
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The joke was on me, though, because when the ARITAUM cleansing tissues arrived I was confronted with a large canister that would have fit in just right with my baby nephew's butt wipes. O_O (Err, so much for portability!) The 80 tissues are rolled up within the plastic cylindrical container with each one designed to be pulled out at the top. I would have preferred a plastic pouch but oh well... The flip top prevents the wipes from drying out and you can unscrew the entire top to see how much is left over. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxlI7eKWwL1AZtXoR7IEtinndDG5ivQc_XlZGk8rbfwtx48UC8fcogOlVsB47IDwzuG7OsRlhdDEyma2nrOGQpp3-M8XtGLhDCfU1qQC84lcvkUkwa1wC6Uy42gAGMBSgsPnw8/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="ARITAUM aloe cleansing tissue" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxlI7eKWwL1AZtXoR7IEtinndDG5ivQc_XlZGk8rbfwtx48UC8fcogOlVsB47IDwzuG7OsRlhdDEyma2nrOGQpp3-M8XtGLhDCfU1qQC84lcvkUkwa1wC6Uy42gAGMBSgsPnw8/s320/photo+2.JPG" title="" width="239" /></a></div>
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The texture of the tissue is a loose weave with less dampness than a sheet mask but enough to feel saturated. I suppose there's a bonus exfoliation from the rougher feel but I use plenty of chemical exfoliants (salicylic acid, retinol, etc) so I feel overall neutral about it. The edges are perforated so you can tear the sheets off but I tend to have to yank a bit and then the next sheet inevitably gets pulled out a bit. I don't love having to stuff the next one back into the container to make it fit underneath the plastic flap.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizndInw_v7B05i6ZIyaGX5LAjO2xlkWOicluO76RQno6I_HYk1SrbV4G1HLwwkg-yIiXC86okgHl9RYczzuxh48id2_3GFSmeCafZC1gtj4uLhxMPIjR9_TJJB-KhQKKAv7Nfp/s1600/photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="ARITAUM aloe cleansing tissue" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizndInw_v7B05i6ZIyaGX5LAjO2xlkWOicluO76RQno6I_HYk1SrbV4G1HLwwkg-yIiXC86okgHl9RYczzuxh48id2_3GFSmeCafZC1gtj4uLhxMPIjR9_TJJB-KhQKKAv7Nfp/s320/photo+3.JPG" title="" width="239" /></a></div>
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Not too sure what smell the tissues give off but it reminds me of sanitizer or detergent so I tend to hold my breath when using them.<br />
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Unfortunately, I couldn't find an ingredient list online and I can't read the Korean on the side of the container so I'm just assuming it's the same as those found in the <a href="http://www.cosdna.com/eng/cosmetic_5db2206340.html">cleansing water</a>, just with a wipe involved. <span style="font-size: x-small;">(To be fair, the ingredient list for the cleansing water I reviewed <a href="http://duckymuffin.blogspot.com/2016/03/review-aritaum-aloe-no-wash-cleansing.html">here</a> was uploaded by a random user so I can't be sure it's completely accurate, too.) </span></div>
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I tend to swipe each wipe around my face multiple times in case the porous tissue misses anything the first time around. The wipes do their job, removing the sweat from my face and making it feel less sticky, but it does leave behind a tacky sensation that takes a few minutes to forget. This layer of residue/moisturizer is no big deal for me because I'd rather feel sticky than dried out. <br />
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My acne has not worsened during the 2 months I've used this product. I tend to average 1-3 wipe downs per week depending on how good I am about getting off the couch and going to Zumba so I see this canister lasting me at least another few months. All in all it was a good deal from <a href="https://www.roseroseshop.com/aritaum-aloe-no-wash-cleansing-tissues.html">RoseRoseShop</a>. I personally won't re-purchase because I'm looking for more portable packaging (like a plastic pouch). However, someone that keeps a gym locker can plunk this large container in there and be good to go. <b>$6 for 80 wipes</b> is a seriously <i>great </i>deal. =)<br />
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P.S. I just noticed eBay is selling a pouch version but it's $4.55 for 20 sheets so even though it's still pretty cheap overall it makes me feel like I'm not getting my money's worth!<br />
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<b>Summary:</b></div>
<ul>
<li>Packaging: 3/5 (hygienic; bulky; not the easiest dispense)</li>
<li>Smell: 3/5 (not great but bearable)</li>
<li>Performance: 4/5 (gets everything off but has a slightly rough feel)</li>
<li>Value/Price: 5/5 ($6 + shipping on <a href="https://www.roseroseshop.com/aritaum-aloe-no-wash-cleansing-tissues.html">RoseRoseShop</a> for 80 sheets; $16 on eBay)</li>
<li><b>Recommend? Yes </b>(cheap & effective; bulk product)</li>
<li><b>Repurchase? Nope </b>(only because I want a more portable product)</li>
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Duckyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11163256257296903307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18919023.post-27129256634432313672016-08-30T16:45:00.000-07:002016-12-15T20:48:29.361-08:00Review: Mizon Good Night White Sleeping Mask<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9pLoQoFFSAeyO2HqzII5rZxnRQGVK1SR_-ayN0tpr1CsPLIRvy_7ZZ4mKRJG4skkZwrkz814PYZY6Pgh-NAcNeO7waNWEdMe90GamiMEJ3usu0LCMcCWBAJll3MAAn7CNYCde/s1600/IMG_0849.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Mizon Good Night White Sleeping Mask" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9pLoQoFFSAeyO2HqzII5rZxnRQGVK1SR_-ayN0tpr1CsPLIRvy_7ZZ4mKRJG4skkZwrkz814PYZY6Pgh-NAcNeO7waNWEdMe90GamiMEJ3usu0LCMcCWBAJll3MAAn7CNYCde/s320/IMG_0849.JPG" title="" width="239" /></a></div>
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I adore products with <b>niacinamide </b>because I'm sadly acne-prone and that pretty much means I have inflammation and hyperpigmentation on my face at any given time. As many of us know, this awesome ingredient works to <b>heal breakouts</b> faster and <b>lighten</b> the dark aftermath. It gives me a leg up in the never-ending race to conquer my troubled skin which lately I'm finally gaining on. </div>
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Ever since introducing <a href="http://duckymuffin.blogspot.com/2015/01/review-paulas-choice-skin-perfecting-2.html">BHA</a> and <a href="http://duckymuffin.blogspot.com/2016/02/review-curology-formerly-pocketderm.html">tretinoin</a> into my skincare routine my complexion has made huge strides in appearing calmer, less spotty and just plain smoother! =) However, the battle is not over because I still get breakouts around that special time of the month (harumph) and I'm still sensitive enough that using the wrong skincare product can make my face sprout angry fist-shaking bumps... sigh (more on that later).</div>
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I'm a <b>huge fan of Mizon</b> products because they tend to have minimal acne triggers, good ingredients and reliable results for decent prices. It was a no-brainer to add their <a href="http://www.roseroseshop.com/mizon-good-night-white-sleeping-mask.html"><b>Good Night White Sleeping Mask</b></a> to my last RoseRoseShop haul because tretinoin increases the dry spots around my nose/mouth and I'm constantly looking to add more moisture to these areas. With niacinamide as such a prominent ingredient I figured I was hitting two birds with one stone! <br />
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<a name='more'></a>The Good Night White Sleeping Mask is meant to be a final product that layers over the essences, serums, creams, etc in a nighttime routine. As an occlusive a good sleeping mask seals all the previous layers in and increases their efficacy. Mizon's version comes in a 50 ml hygienic squeeze tube of flexible plastic and a screw-on cap. I swapped out the cap with a flip-on version saved from another tube product because my lazy self prefers those versus the extra few seconds needed to unscrew the original. By the time I'm at this last step in my lengthy routine I am tired and ready to dive into bed! ^__^<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDN2MrHZWvF1sgbhqGZ0ffn8MPH3-m7KrrHyx_lp4i3z4xIwA19005ob9GWKXHyTrnQhyphenhyphenVSJFUTY6OKrFtFmVUNYxvq8A2BMFufiZ9w6SXcPz1LLHM0QBb5B4H21KKaB8I_-cj/s1600/IMG_0843.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Mizon Good Night White Sleeping Mask" border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDN2MrHZWvF1sgbhqGZ0ffn8MPH3-m7KrrHyx_lp4i3z4xIwA19005ob9GWKXHyTrnQhyphenhyphenVSJFUTY6OKrFtFmVUNYxvq8A2BMFufiZ9w6SXcPz1LLHM0QBb5B4H21KKaB8I_-cj/s200/IMG_0843.JPG" title="" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaSWd8jATAs187Mo_NdKezYQg7uFQQ08VVlY_V4ifN1jrSvf3qupGf2ybbgNy_pZCeA3OqYzXxTEdhgXTZBB8S0GumC2BVAJN-jrTWJDrQ6tejnavZ4PKOZl7vucRFVIdCoOoY/s1600/IMG_0844.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Mizon Good Night White Sleeping Mask" border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaSWd8jATAs187Mo_NdKezYQg7uFQQ08VVlY_V4ifN1jrSvf3qupGf2ybbgNy_pZCeA3OqYzXxTEdhgXTZBB8S0GumC2BVAJN-jrTWJDrQ6tejnavZ4PKOZl7vucRFVIdCoOoY/s200/IMG_0844.JPG" title="" width="200" /></a></div>
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I can detect a sharp smelling odor that reminds me of hairspray but it fades quickly. I'm surprised because most Mizon products I've used have no odor or at least smell more pleasant (like fruit) so this was a miss for me. Maybe it's the alcohol ingredient? The rest of the <a href="http://cosdna.com/eng/cosmetic_3816129151.html">ingredients</a> list has triethanol amine at a 2 for acne trigger rating and a few 1s (dimethicone, butylene glycol & a pigment). I'm not loving that some coloring was added. (It's just a sleep mask! Why does it need to be pigmented?!)<br />
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The gray gel texture is very spreadable and so quick to absorb, even over multiple skincare products, it actually means I can use quite a bit at a time. I started off applying this sleep mask each night for one week over Benton <a href="http://duckymuffin.blogspot.com/2015/03/review-benton-snail-bee-high-content_18.html">essence</a>, <a href="http://duckymuffin.blogspot.com/2015/03/review-benton-aloe-propolis-soothing-gel.html">gel</a>, <a href="http://duckymuffin.blogspot.com/2015/03/review-benton-snail-bee-high-content.html">steam cream</a> and a Mizon <a href="http://duckymuffin.blogspot.com/2015/05/review-mizon-acence-ac-care-solution.html">blemish cream.</a><br />
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<b>The results?</b><br />
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The first few nights of use were as expected. My skin was softer and felt more hydrated by morning time. My under eye areas were plumper and I couldn't wait to spread the news. However...<br />
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At the end of the week I unfortunately started seeing my forehead become rougher with <b>closed comedones</b> emerging. Since this happened to coincide with the week before my period I assumed it may have been a hormonal coincidence so I stopped using the sleep mask for a short time. Once my forehead texture recovered to its previously smooth appearance I added it back in. Unfortunately I had a <b>second breakout</b> and this time it was my forehead AND my poor left cheek, full of three large and painful <b>cystic bumps</b>. You know... the hard ones that don't drain and don't go away for weeks :(<br />
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I should have listened to my instincts the first time I used the mask because my forehead almost never breaks out (even around my period). The lower half of my face is still an active war zone for acne so I'm not surprised that it reacted so strongly to a product it didn't like. It's just sad that it got slapped so hard over a seemingly innocent sleep mask waaah.... Even now as I type up this post I can see the prominent 3D texture of those bumps catching the light. >_< I was planning an update post on how my <a href="http://duckymuffin.blogspot.com/2016/02/review-curology-formerly-pocketderm.html">Curology </a>subscription is going but now I'm going to wait for this breakout to clear first because my current complexion doesn't reflect the nice results I've had these last few months... sighs.<br />
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<b>An explanation?</b><br />
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My guess is that my face disliked the <b>alcohol ingredient</b> and maybe the dimethicone + cyclomethicone combo was <b>too occlusive</b> and <b>pore-clogging</b> for me. I've used products (like BB cream) with <b>silicones </b>and had no issue so it could be the alcohol compromises my moisture barrier a bit and tips things over the edge. Maybe I used too much of the product and it overwhelmed my poor skin... I've also been undergoing more stress at work lately blehh.<br />
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Whatever the reason or combination of issues causing the breakouts I'm going to pass on using this Good Night White Sleeping Mask on my face again. Maybe I can use the rest up on my body where I have areas of healed eczema that left behind brown pigmentation. There's just so much left in the tube... what a waste! =/<br />
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<b>Summary:</b></div>
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<li>Packaging: 4/5 (hygienic; flexible tube; screw-on cap)</li>
<li>Smell: 3/5 (not great but bearable)</li>
<li>Performance: 2/5 (softens/hydrates well but breaks me out blehh)</li>
<li>Value/Price: 5/5 (under $4 + shipping on <a href="http://www.roseroseshop.com/mizon-good-night-white-sleeping-mask.htmlret-key-snail-repairing-essence.html">RoseRoseShop</a> and $5.50 on eBay)</li>
<li><b>Recommend? Neutral </b>(not for acne-prone or if sensitive to alcohol & silicones)</li>
<li><b>Repurchase? Nope</b></li>
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Duckyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11163256257296903307noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18919023.post-56919254691110259582016-07-19T18:42:00.001-07:002016-12-15T20:50:38.719-08:00Review: Secret Key Snail Repairing Essence<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<img alt="Secret Key Snail Repairing Essence" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVnIDL8Y3YGicksL4HaQLz6tkVx0CVzTj6j2eTeIrfjRmBYiZ-xD2mrD8JbhVTru_UNjkPOidFPPQTGW1w8FGG6jUf5-rcXbge0UF9AT3oK9uIgg5oZ42avk_xLJZFBDyoYcow/s320/SK+E.jpeg" title="" width="183" /></div>
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How did a few months pass since my last update? ^_^ I definitely go through phases of disinterest towards trying new skincare goodies, especially when something temporarily takes priority (work, vacation, etc), but honestly I think I've just been lazy lately. =P<br />
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My usual research process of scouring internet reviews and investigating ingredients before deciding to try out a new product has felt too much like homework lately but I'm hoping to get back into the swing of things with my thoughts on <b>Secret Key's Snail Repairing Essence</b>.<br />
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I go through my usual <a href="http://duckymuffin.blogspot.com/2015/03/review-benton-snail-bee-high-content_18.html">Benton Snail Bee Essence</a> so quickly I have regular chances to consider trying others each time I finish a bottle. However, so many essences don't come in sample sizes and it's not practical to just hope the foil sachets randomly turn up as free samples included with online purchases. So I pretty much have to weigh how much money I want to gamble on a full-size product I could end up disliking. <b>Secret Key's Snail Repairing Essence </b>was a no-brainer to try out because it's super cheap (<$5 + shipping on <a href="http://www.roseroseshop.com/secret-key-snail-repairing-essence.html">RoseRoseShop</a> and $8 on eBay) so I knew I wouldn't lose out if it ended up being awful. <br />
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The design of the cardboard box and 60 ml bottle is blah... they remind me of generic beauty products sold in 99 cent stores. (I threw away the box already so don't have a photo but just take my word for it. You're not missing out!) The pump is sturdy and reliable (no crazy spurts or backed up flow) but if you have any essence left on the tip it tends to smear over the inside of the plastic cap.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQeNaYTppSAu3RclPhRbmN0Yz7MSp-imDn60Y8IgxHHvHyycaJv4ugyG-PImQFPvLyjpKqNrr8AGIbVRI97GBTF8HPM2li27PhtJ2FgyGwC3uIEj2FrtYaL7LVlDyLxWWSKDUR/s1600/SK4.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Secret Key Snail Repairing Essence" border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQeNaYTppSAu3RclPhRbmN0Yz7MSp-imDn60Y8IgxHHvHyycaJv4ugyG-PImQFPvLyjpKqNrr8AGIbVRI97GBTF8HPM2li27PhtJ2FgyGwC3uIEj2FrtYaL7LVlDyLxWWSKDUR/s200/SK4.jpeg" title="" width="149" /></a></div>
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The <a href="http://cosdna.com/eng/cosmetic_e674110818.html">ingredient</a> list is short and inoffensive (only triethanol amine has a 2 rating as an acne trigger). There are parabens used to preserve this essence so if that bothers anyone then definitely stay away. I was more bothered by the old-lady-perfume fragrance, kind of floral and chemical at the same time but it's not super strong and fades fast.<br />
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The clear gel texture was heavier than expected but still spreads easily across the skin. Even though it's labeled an essence this product feels much more like a gel a la <a href="http://duckymuffin.blogspot.com/2015/03/review-benton-aloe-propolis-soothing-gel.html">Benton's Aloe Propolis Soothing Gel</a>. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilg49FcFZK-uy10UYgNprqdD7MynAbuc_s9ajXPCXtYkL7K0tsIZrT7jLlb-awhMrXgXssBucNaD-aBJ6Mu6gcKHlcT13jchoaMDmAxX1m9gOvF8GQP66Nj_Dj6sdASRSmKT1R/s1600/SK3.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Secret Key Snail Repairing Essence" border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilg49FcFZK-uy10UYgNprqdD7MynAbuc_s9ajXPCXtYkL7K0tsIZrT7jLlb-awhMrXgXssBucNaD-aBJ6Mu6gcKHlcT13jchoaMDmAxX1m9gOvF8GQP66Nj_Dj6sdASRSmKT1R/s200/SK3.jpeg" title="" width="196" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv10TKCVQRvAAHsB91MmR4XAcqaS02vSn7ED9bNDzZtNINoHPyfXaYYc9vTyossbA5cryh8k_TCmXwzpEtrq76wBx2AD7IcCTZ2tzfIlpO7ICGVNvy4cn68Ixtyb6Zy1QdH2jm/s1600/SK2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Secret Key Snail Repairing Essence" border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv10TKCVQRvAAHsB91MmR4XAcqaS02vSn7ED9bNDzZtNINoHPyfXaYYc9vTyossbA5cryh8k_TCmXwzpEtrq76wBx2AD7IcCTZ2tzfIlpO7ICGVNvy4cn68Ixtyb6Zy1QdH2jm/s200/SK2.jpeg" title="" width="181" /></a></div>
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<span id="goog_1999901352">I first tried applying this like a first essence, immediately after cleansing and that turned out to be a mistake. My first impulse was to wonder why my skin felt tight and even drier than having nothing on it and it became quickly obvious <b>this essence has to go after more hydrating steps</b> in a skincare routine. <span id="goog_1999901352">It actually belongs to a collection of other
Secret Key products that include a cleanser, toner, emulsion, gel cream,
regular cream, etc. I only wanted an essence so assumed this one would be interchangeable with how I use my Benton version but it's thicker, like an occlusive, and performs better as a product that traps hydration instead of providing it. It's funny how both have snail mucus extract as their main ingredient yet feel & behave so differently! Secret Key's Snail Repairing Essence is thick and sticky to the point of leaving sinewy strands between the fingers (see below).</span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAsQaB9f77uR3dNPGwigkJB7aVfJei2UcP6q0y8qjUxUiiMel9c7jmt_VhxvMVtKGTYYV2TGJ4HchOmZ6OLqoF-kSQJ4o2DNFSBPz-k7YDlHGdthymzx8gNcJJdfPfqjb6VJZt/s1600/SK+5.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Secret Key Snail Repairing Essence" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAsQaB9f77uR3dNPGwigkJB7aVfJei2UcP6q0y8qjUxUiiMel9c7jmt_VhxvMVtKGTYYV2TGJ4HchOmZ6OLqoF-kSQJ4o2DNFSBPz-k7YDlHGdthymzx8gNcJJdfPfqjb6VJZt/s320/SK+5.jpeg" title="" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Please excuse my dry/unmoisturized fingers hoohoo</td></tr>
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<span id="goog_1999901352"><span id="goog_1999901352"><br /></span></span></div>
<span id="goog_1999901352">The sticky strands caught me by surprise the first time I was ready to plop it onto my face and it got over my lips, making me sputter (peh peh PEH). The redeeming factor is that this essence dries fast to an almost-matte finish under a minute.</span><br />
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<span id="goog_1999901352">I started using this product 1-2x per day for approximately a month. After cleansing + light gel moisturizer I would use about one pump's worth to cover my entire face. Sometimes on extra dry days I'd cleanse, apply Benton's Snail Essence + Gel and then add Secret Key's version. </span><span id="goog_1999901352"><span id="goog_1999901352">This was the best way to use this product in my skincare routine, as something to seal in a l</span>ighter layer of hydration before continuing on with the heavier cream moisturizers. I imagine for really oily-skinned folks they may just stop after applying this essence but us drier types would need something extra on top.</span><br />
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<span id="goog_1999901352"></span><br />
<span id="goog_1999901352">I visited the <a href="http://www.secretkeyen.com/product/Snail-Repairing-Choose-1-among-8/19/cid/10">Secret Key product page</a> and found a graphic (I'm too lazy to type it all out so just pasting it here) detailing their claims for this essence:</span><br />
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<b>So did it live up to their claims? </b><br />
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<b>Short answer: Kind of....</b></div>
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Ever since starting my <a href="http://duckymuffin.blogspot.com/2016/02/review-curology-formerly-pocketderm.html">Curology Rx</a> my skin is more sensitive & dry, to the point of producing peeling flakes around my mouth/nose (ew, I know). I found my peeling spots to be mildly improved after adding this essence to my routine but only if I hadn't used any harsher products (light scrubs, actives, etc) the same day. So basically it does have a "mild soothing effect," but only if I baby my skin in other ways. =/<br />
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Does my skin feel more elastic/moisturized after use? Definitely... but only for about 30-60 minutes! I can slowly feel the skin tightening again and thirsting for extra moisture so this essence is only a pit stop in a lengthier skincare routine. I absolutely must use lighter hydrating steps before and afterwards or my face starts drying out and feeling itchy.<br />
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As for brightening, I'm really not sure how much help this essence is providing. My hyperpigmentation has been improving because of my retinoid use but I wouldn't say I've noticed a faster rate of recovery since adding Secret Key's Snail Repairing Essence.<br />
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<b>So am I repurchasing?</b><br />
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<b>Probably not.... </b></div>
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I wanted something to replace my Benton essence and this one falls a bit short. It would only work as an additional occlusive product for sealing in other moisturizing essences/gels because it can't really take the place of other established items in my routine. Using Secret Key's Snail Repairing Essence did not increase my breakouts (yay!) but it's not an exciting product and I feel there are better essences out there I'd like to become friends with. ^__^<br />
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<b>Summary:</b></div>
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<li>Packaging: 4/5 (sturdy pump; opaque so hard to judge volume; boring)</li>
<li>Smell: 3/5 (not great but not too strong)</li>
<li>Performance: 3/5 (no extra breakouts but can't be used alone)</li>
<li>Value/Price: 5/5 (under $5 + shipping on <a href="http://www.roseroseshop.com/secret-key-snail-repairing-essence.html">RoseRoseShop</a> and $8 on eBay)</li>
<li><b>Recommend? Neutral </b>(it's cheap but better for non-dehydrated types)</li>
<li><b>Repurchase? Nope</b></li>
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Duckyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11163256257296903307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18919023.post-85683766247735363062016-05-11T15:48:00.000-07:002016-12-16T11:26:37.704-08:00Review: 3M Nexcare Acne Patches vs Target up&up Hydrocolloid / Blister Bandages <br />
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I can't remember where I first read about using <b>hydrocolloid</b> bandages for breakouts but they've been a crucial part of my acne care routine for years. The idea is that patching a blemish (especially a broken / picked one) overnight with these sticky products will allow the pus and other inflammatory junk to be absorbed out of the skin and into the bandage, calming things down and speeding up healing. Best of all there's this mesmerizing & <b>gross visual payoff</b> in the morning when I hold the bandage patch to the light and see just how much gunk is extracted overnight! (See pictures at end of post ^_^)<br />
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My first forays into acne patches were through completely transparent sticker-like sheets (think <span class="jackpot-title rhsg4">Missha Speedy Solution Anti Trouble Patch, Lioele AC Control Trouble Patch, etc). They were pretty much worthless except for covering up spots and preventing me from scratching while sleeping. Those pretty ads that promised I'd clear a blemish overnight were unfortunately untrue for me... BUT I did find another use for them (details to follow) so all was not lost! =)</span><br />
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<span class="jackpot-title rhsg4">Hydrocolloid bandages, on the other hand, really live up to their claims and the first type I ever tried was made by <a href="http://www.nexcare.com/wps/portal/3M/en_US/NANexcare/Nexcare/"><b>Nexcare</b></a>, a major player in wound care products. They're under <b>3M</b>, a company that makes "more than 55,000 products" according to <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/3M">Wikipedia</a> and as American as they come. </span><span class="jackpot-title rhsg4">Interestingly, though, I've always bought my Nexcare Acne Patches through Asian eBay sellers because I can find the smaller-sized patches I need from Taiwan but not so much here in the US.</span><br />
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<span class="jackpot-title rhsg4">Over time I started looking at different brands because I run through these acne patches fast & I wanted to find a cheaper alternative. Google turned me onto <a href="http://www.target.com/p/hydrocolloid-blister-bandages-6-count-up-up/-/A-11037863"><b>Target's up&up</b></a> brand of hydrocolloid bandages (called "Blister Bandages") and after using them for nearly a year I've some thoughts to share on how the two brands compare.</span><br />
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<b>Packaging</b><br />
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<span class="jackpot-title rhsg4">The <u>Nexcare</u> patches come in round/square shapes ranging from 0.8 cm diameter (the ones pictured below) to over 1 cm large. They're arranged between 2 clear plastic sheets & enclosed within a sterile envelope that peels apart. The cardboard box housing everything is a bit flimsy but these products aren't delicate so it hardly matters. I always go for the</span><span class="jackpot-title rhsg4"><span class="jackpot-title rhsg4"> smallest sized patches (50/box) but t</span>hey're also sold in combinations of smaller + larger patches.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmhfmRxo6jvXDh4XUkZ9kmgN40YWNWtnsqxFPMWkO7Adv2H3tdxG2WyrvuBKEqt0IRw467rrcqGyLJGEr03N6zs5_L8UNz8rTt_hf2uUXTZLKXUj_H5_mwb3GxglJy9gpecOVf/s1600/20160510_174841.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt=" 3M Nexcare Acne Patches" border="0" height="271" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmhfmRxo6jvXDh4XUkZ9kmgN40YWNWtnsqxFPMWkO7Adv2H3tdxG2WyrvuBKEqt0IRw467rrcqGyLJGEr03N6zs5_L8UNz8rTt_hf2uUXTZLKXUj_H5_mwb3GxglJy9gpecOVf/s320/20160510_174841.jpg" title="" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span class="jackpot-title rhsg4"><u>Target</u>'s version comes in a sturdier cardboard box but it seems wastefully large since it's only holding 6 flat bandages, large as they are. Each come stuck to a backing with one edge pre-peeled (via an extra plastic strip), seen in the picture below as the side with the dark blue line.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipVSwhGm_BAukJAKO2Th291r_XcGdXwYssCVmyp5fq2WdqhokHl3wqGxEIYh-FdJyqhgYJDSiCer5U3U0r9OPJg1FunmqMjw2oLInKZyJsN1mzEqkL6OErH_jb3LJdIywAY164/s1600/IMG_0402.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Target up&up Hydrocolloid bandages" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipVSwhGm_BAukJAKO2Th291r_XcGdXwYssCVmyp5fq2WdqhokHl3wqGxEIYh-FdJyqhgYJDSiCer5U3U0r9OPJg1FunmqMjw2oLInKZyJsN1mzEqkL6OErH_jb3LJdIywAY164/s320/IMG_0402.JPG" title="" width="238" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw_cZpHuiJxS09w5CvyAB49m5kNPFSRkEMo-M_LLqwu6_OXdaJVpXIt4n3G5MO-syrPHzsek7qBdxSbSzbauCUFi3LY1bN7Dfpm12jDOOjF_hguWLkuCCTBblZXn2YChmxxPpt/s1600/20160510_172435.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Target up&up Hydrocolloid bandages" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw_cZpHuiJxS09w5CvyAB49m5kNPFSRkEMo-M_LLqwu6_OXdaJVpXIt4n3G5MO-syrPHzsek7qBdxSbSzbauCUFi3LY1bN7Dfpm12jDOOjF_hguWLkuCCTBblZXn2YChmxxPpt/s320/20160510_172435.jpg" title="" width="269" /></a></div>
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<span class="jackpot-title rhsg4">It's immediately clear these 2.9 cm x 5.9 cm bandages require the extra step of being cut up into smaller pieces before use but, to be fair, this brand isn't marketing them for acne, just general wounds. I keep my adorable little pair of Etude House Ribbon Scissors around for just this purpose. (They're supposed to be for eyebrows but I only use them to cut my hydrocolloid bandages and nothing else so they stay clean and sharp!)</span><br />
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<span class="jackpot-title rhsg4"><b>Application/Durability</b></span><br />
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<span class="jackpot-title rhsg4"><u>Nexcare</u>'s patches are <b>a bit slippery</b> and don't adhere as well with layered skincare products (especially oily or heavy moisturizers). Each patch has a sticky and non-sticky side (sticky side obviously goes towards the face) but I've found I need to press it firmly against the skin to create a good seal and even that's not a guarantee I won't find the patch on my pillow by morning. If you sleep quietly on your back, face-up all night, that's great news but in my case I wiggle around so I have to get creative with ensuring these precious things actually stay close to the skin. Enter the useless clear sticker patches I mentioned earlier! By cutting them apart into strips I can use them as extra "tape" against the edge of a Nexcare patch and onto my face. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoYqII0qkEKDrJgPtveSl6cmAdYyNED2gZlz0nJG4P2U_RPrDlV7J7cPS454oCRIxJarUzQoVYUZtGf-AxGMEGX3qZIfwcfVXNHrhkUqMxe6qs9H83KcukocKLOsefYR6GMHte/s1600/20160510_195156.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNkUert0iC1ewHR05k-n-W6Jlpn4rNWH4HSl7kMCkeE4MZdV1vTWYFtD6y2uxGCMdWLDrsE-ZmmR0PH745Cblfvzf48tQqen3gL0K9Z2uuMbU4gcrxlyImHUqNe7haWR3oYRUm/s1600/20160510_192539.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="145" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNkUert0iC1ewHR05k-n-W6Jlpn4rNWH4HSl7kMCkeE4MZdV1vTWYFtD6y2uxGCMdWLDrsE-ZmmR0PH745Cblfvzf48tQqen3gL0K9Z2uuMbU4gcrxlyImHUqNe7haWR3oYRUm/s320/20160510_192539.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4mJO3t6myiUo6g5sVWxvWAbZ-9kp1u1aHLdCA9jLFYs5m6ZO3u2o2JNQ5srL_YFW5I_TAnBgZfWBQhmwYpDcYTZrHd37UHYENZkrxBnZyHNiVkUeJSQPmFI_dkus6GlNNY_Np/s1600/20160510_195156.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt=" 3M Nexcare Acne Patches" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4mJO3t6myiUo6g5sVWxvWAbZ-9kp1u1aHLdCA9jLFYs5m6ZO3u2o2JNQ5srL_YFW5I_TAnBgZfWBQhmwYpDcYTZrHd37UHYENZkrxBnZyHNiVkUeJSQPmFI_dkus6GlNNY_Np/s1600/20160510_195156.jpg" title="" /></a></div>
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<span class="jackpot-title rhsg4">I suppose regular adhesive tape would suffice but these clear acne patches probably have <i>some</i> skincare benefits and this way I feel like I'm getting all the use I can out of an unsuccessful product! I also use another failed acne product (reviewed <a href="http://duckymuffin.blogspot.com/2015/10/review-mizon-ac-care-solution-tea-tree.html">here</a>) on the Nexcare patches as an extra holding "glue" whenever I can't replenish my "acne tape" in time. (One dud serves as the back-up to another dud haha =P)</span><br />
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<span class="jackpot-title rhsg4">On the other hand, <u>Target</u>'s version has <b>great sticking power</b> and I rarely feel like I need to reinforce it with "acne tape/glue." Even after I cut them up into little squares or strips I can paste the Target bandages onto my face and 19 out of 20 times I'll find them in the same place come morning. If anything, the adhesive is a bit strong and I have to be careful not to rip them off too quickly ("OW my facial hair!" ^_^) Many might see this as a disadvantage but I prefer to exercise a little caution in removal versus deal with the disappointment of realizing the patch fell off overnight and didn't do squat for the blemish.</span><br />
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<span class="jackpot-title rhsg4">One small thing I need to mention: the <u>Target</u> bandages have a <b>paper backing</b> (not plastic) that annoyingly separates into 2 layers if I'm too hasty at peeling them off. This sounds like a weird peeve but when it separates I'm left with a thin matte layer still stuck to the back of the bandage that negates the stickiness & makes it un-useable. I've learned my lesson and now always make sure I'm grabbing the whole paper backing with my fingernail. </span><br />
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<span class="jackpot-title rhsg4"><b>Performance</b></span><br />
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<span class="jackpot-title rhsg4">So how do these two perform/compare? The <u>Nexcare</u> patch is <b>thinner & more transparent</b> than the Target version. This means it starts bulging outward away from my face if it's tackling a huge blemish with loads of pus, oil and other fluids. However, </span><span class="jackpot-title rhsg4"><u>Nexcare</u>'s transparency </span><span class="jackpot-title rhsg4"><span class="jackpot-title rhsg4">gives more of a visual pay-off because it's so obvious what scary stuff comes out overnight. </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB92yQxfRw1cvmpJYhmb_s9HnGh06gO7zIDlnz2q9SVJWfxeghGl13857zQQH-eF6On3j8a_0gFiPrkyKB7N6SEpmCAEjl92lJUBQZxUTvZUZ_OiAnbhzdlywCLm-q6tms8nxM/s1600/Nexcare.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt=" 3M Nexcare Acne Patches " border="0" height="164" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB92yQxfRw1cvmpJYhmb_s9HnGh06gO7zIDlnz2q9SVJWfxeghGl13857zQQH-eF6On3j8a_0gFiPrkyKB7N6SEpmCAEjl92lJUBQZxUTvZUZ_OiAnbhzdlywCLm-q6tms8nxM/s200/Nexcare.png" title="" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span class="jackpot-title rhsg4">In comparison, <u>Target</u>'s bandages are thicker so <b>absorb slightly more</b> goop. They're also<b> opaque</b> so it's harder to tell in the morning what exactly got absorbed into them. I have to squint at and hold up the <u>Target</u> bandages toward the light to see if they actually collected anything within.</span> <span class="jackpot-title rhsg4">When it comes to photographing the results it's way easier to convince someone of the Nexcare patches' efficacy versus the less transparent Target bandages. (I had the worst time trying to photograph the Target ones so apologies for the quality!)</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip5ZBAhqptN4vywT5Q8z4LHjlQfDPhLyPT5eU2cWfjMlc739IywEowK6V7Lv-W19ECcn_zU-PDMBwInU3Os2pHbgY9oxCaPx6ubaUg1La5rnDmgOAVf36RYdfwkE6ROGhXIm-3/s1600/editedphoto+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Target up&up Hydrocolloid bandages" border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip5ZBAhqptN4vywT5Q8z4LHjlQfDPhLyPT5eU2cWfjMlc739IywEowK6V7Lv-W19ECcn_zU-PDMBwInU3Os2pHbgY9oxCaPx6ubaUg1La5rnDmgOAVf36RYdfwkE6ROGhXIm-3/s200/editedphoto+5.jpg" title="" width="196" /></a></div>
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<span class="jackpot-title rhsg4"><b>Price</b></span><br />
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<span class="jackpot-title rhsg4">Both brands end up <b>about the same price</b> if you have the patience to track down the cheapest sellers. On eBay the least expensive Nexcare Acne
Patches I've found are priced $8.50 for 100 (2 boxes). Target's blister bandages are usually $3.64 (or less depending on sales). There's more bandage provided but after using junior high trig (2</span><span class="jackpot-title rhsg4"><b><span class="texhtml">Ï€</span></b>r for the win!) to calculate the
area of material I'm getting from both brands it actually works out to about 3.5 cents /sq cm of
bandage across the board so no clear advantage for either company. </span><br />
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<span class="jackpot-title rhsg4"><b>So the verdict?</b> </span><br />
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<span class="jackpot-title rhsg4">At the end of the day <b>both are reliable acne fighters</b>. My cystic breakouts are less painful, less inflamed and flatter by morning each time I use either of these products. Personally I'm going to give a small edge to Target's up&up brand because I like its extra stickiness. Folks who sleep without too much tossing can probably use Nexcare just fine but me... I'm a pillow nuzzler! E</span><span class="jackpot-title rhsg4">xtra work is required in cutting apart the large bandages but I also prefer being able to
customize the shapes for different parts of my face and different size blemishes. I've tried cutting up the Nexcare patches and it's definitely possible but pie wedge shapes or semicircles are the end products, which aren't as flexible for me. Plus, I have to slice up other stickers to secure the Nexcare patches onto my face and that's a little more annoying/delicate work.</span><br />
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Another bonus is that Target is a popular local store for me and I can pick up their Blister Bandages super easy instead of dealing with Nexcare & international shipping. These last few months I've depleted my Nexcare Acne Patches and slowly converted to Target's brand. =)<br />
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<b>Summary for 3M Nexcare Acne Patches </b></div>
<ul>
<li>Packaging: 5/5 (sterile; easy-to-remove plastic backings)</li>
<li>Performance: 4/5 (absorbs well; not the stickiest)</li>
<li>Value/Price: 5/5 ($8.50 for 100 small patches via eBay)</li>
<li><b>Recommend? Yes </b>(cheap; effective; better for tranquil sleepers =)</li>
<li><b>Repurchase? Not at this time</b></li>
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<b>Summary for Target up&up Blister Bandages</b></div>
<ul>
<li>Packaging: 4/5 (sterile; okay paper backing)</li>
<li>Performance: 4/5 (absorbs well; very sticky; hard to see gunky payoff)</li>
<li>Value/Price: 5/5 ($3.64 for 6 large bandages)</li>
<li><b>Recommend? Yes </b>(cheap; effective; stays on all night!)</li>
<li><b>Repurchase? Already did!</b></li>
</ul>
Duckyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11163256257296903307noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18919023.post-32048986291373993732016-03-27T21:22:00.000-07:002016-12-15T20:56:56.317-08:00Review: ARITAUM Aloe No-Wash Cleansing Water<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG5CMcunSSmzC3yemzfzXVUi8aQMOrhUHZk3D2BR67XSV6h4ReU3c_VGcbh9zVSvcZjhsCw2HN0dDbydWJSwbe4qfkcYNUL9mU7NmuqIPd51bCJ5PQLX-drKnUQbkO9Xx_9BQR/s1600/IMG_0144.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="ARITAUM Aloe No-Wash Cleansing Water" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG5CMcunSSmzC3yemzfzXVUi8aQMOrhUHZk3D2BR67XSV6h4ReU3c_VGcbh9zVSvcZjhsCw2HN0dDbydWJSwbe4qfkcYNUL9mU7NmuqIPd51bCJ5PQLX-drKnUQbkO9Xx_9BQR/s320/IMG_0144.JPG" title="" width="122" /></a></div>
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I've used plenty of aloe vera gels but <b>ARITAUM's Aloe No-Wash Cleansing Water</b> is the first micellar cleansing product I've used with this main ingredient. Micelles are oil molecules suspended in water that pick up dirt/make-up/particles from your face and represent a lighter cleansing method (versus oil or foam cleansing, etc). They're the active agent in cleansing waters that are used in one step only without needing to be washed off in a second step. For dry types this is a huge positive because the skin won't be left stripped and there's a layer of moisture left behind (like a toner?) to prep for the next skincare product.<br />
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This is also the first <b><a href="http://us.aritaum.com/">ARITAUM</a> </b>item I've ever tried and I'm happy to say this is a Korean brand I'll be glad to use again in the future. I'm not sure if this company provides more selection in Korea but international retailers currently feature more of their make-up than skincare products so I hope ARITAUM comes out with more items in the future! <br />
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My first micellar water experience was via a sample of Dr. Jart's Dermaclear Micro
Water. Even though it was a good product that earned a place in my skincare lineup I realized the full-sized was
<i> waaay </i>too expensive for me. ARITAUM's Aloe No-Wash Cleansing Water version was a cheaper
alternative I saw on <a href="http://www.roseroseshop.com/">RoseRoseShop</a> & an easy gamble. The limited online reviews didn't deter me because the <a href="http://cosdna.com/eng/cosmetic_5db2206340.html">CosDNA ingredient list</a> was so <b>short/clean of acne triggers</b> & the online promotion was a steal ($4 for a huge 300 ml bottle!) so I'd hardly waste $ if it was a dud.<br />
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Instead of water this cleansing wash uses 91% <b>aloe</b> extract, a common ingredient used to treat minor skin conditions (sunburn, irritation, etc) and featured in many soothing gels with green packaging. (Doesn't it feel like green font/graphics are a requirement for aloe products??) <span style="font-size: x-small;">As an oral supplement aloe is packed with vitamins, antioxidants & anti-inflammatory activity. I've seen claims it can beautify skin, help digestion, treat constipation/diabetes, etc but I didn't look too far into those because that's out of the scope of this review.</span><br />
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The clear fluid feels & looks exactly like water so I won't bother taking pictures of the texture (just imagine water on the back your hand haha). There's<b> no real scent</b> but maybe I detect a hint of aloe freshness? The plastic bottle has a sturdy flip cap that won't break off anytime soon (I know this because I have a bad habit for roughly mangling plastic lids/caps & so I can judge quality heehee). I'm also happy the opening dispenses the water in an efficient way without being messy. Wasting product because it gushes out like there's no tomorrow = unhappy Ducky!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPRmgvIRd_-FDXeHPWJ4fbVbcWXUWIeM6nSb8tgFJlL7J-FFc_m65s8JwUQxMJSJd-YoGDAQCX3AZK-lI2SGHDgId_Q6f_QAlJwyH6nT3CCbHVqo6f71DZoQIxI0P3wn88O6WQ/s1600/IMG_0152.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="ARITAUM Aloe No-Wash Cleansing Water" border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPRmgvIRd_-FDXeHPWJ4fbVbcWXUWIeM6nSb8tgFJlL7J-FFc_m65s8JwUQxMJSJd-YoGDAQCX3AZK-lI2SGHDgId_Q6f_QAlJwyH6nT3CCbHVqo6f71DZoQIxI0P3wn88O6WQ/s200/IMG_0152.JPG" title="" width="200" /></a></div>
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<b>So how do I use this cleansing water?</b><i><b><br /></b></i><br />
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First off cleansing waters are generally NOT effective make-up removers for me. I go full-face & heavy on the BB cream (up to a few layers) so it'd take 10+ soaked cotton pads to get everything off, a waste of product/time. After work I do a double cleanse (oil then foam cleanser) followed by a light skincare routine (essence, gel moisturizer, eye cream). In the hours afterwards I may stick on some acne products (pink spot serum, patches, etc) if I'll be indoors and out of the public eye. <span style="font-size: x-small;">My poor family doesn't even double-take now when they see me with pink polka dots & patches all over my face =). </span><br />
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Right before bedtime I can use this aloe cleansing water on a cotton pad to <b>remove acne product residue</b> versus going through a foaming wash again. Even pH-appropriate cleansers are slightly drying for me so this is a great <b>no-wash alternative</b> to ensure a clean face, ready to absorb my nighttime skincare goodies.<br />
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I prefer not to use micellar water as a morning wash because I want to get rid of the layered essence/lotion/creams applied the night before as well as round 2 of the acne spot treatments I use while sleeping. Other folks with better skin (ie skin that doesn't need to be slathered in hydrating products overnight) may find cleansing water an excellent no-wash option for the morning. However, I have to coat my dehydrated face thoroughly each night so can't get away with only a light micellar cleansing in the AM. <span style="font-size: x-small;">Another way I can imagine this product being used is as a portable cleanser pre/post gym/exercise when you don't have the time or means to thoroughly cleanse.... not that I exercise or visit the gym often enough to try it this way heehee ^__^</span><br />
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<b>As to its performance...</b><br />
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I get a weird satisfaction in seeing my soaked cotton pads become more yellow/gray with successive swipes. Whatever's left on my face gets picked up so easy-peasy and even my normal abhorrence of cotton pads (product-wasting skin scrubbers bleh) can be ignored because <b>I barely have to swipe my face</b> to pick up particles. After several weeks of using ARITAUM's Aloe cleansing water my level of breakouts is the same. I didn't buy this product to fix my acne because I have targeted things for that but <b>no increase in blemishes</b> definitely adds another thumbs up! <br />
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My cheap pH strips (bought off eBay) put this cleansing water at <b>roughly pH 6.5 to 7</b>. For folks that use alkaline cleansers (you really shouldn't tho!) this product could be potentially used as a second cleanser and toner that helps <b>normalize skin pH</b>. <br />
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Unless they somehow increase the price drastically I will definitely repurchase this cleansing water! ^__^ I don't see it on RRS anymore (only ARITAUM's cleansing tissue version) but it's on their <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/ARITAUM-Aloe-No-Wash-Cleansing-Water-300ml-/381448703720">eBay site</a> for $10 plus shipping. This 300 ml bottle is so generously sized I'm hopeful it'll be back up by the time I need to re-order!<br />
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<b>Summary</b></div>
<ul>
<li>Packaging: 5/5 (solid bottle; easy to control flow; transparent)</li>
<li>Smell: 5/5 (barely there fresh aloe scent)</li>
<li>Performance: 4/5 (picks up so much so easily; not for heavy make-up removal)</li>
<li>Value/Price: 5/5 (it was $4 on RoseRoseShop for 300 ml! $10-20 elsewhere)</li>
<li><b>Recommend? Yes </b>(cheap & effective; solid product for my skincare needs =)</li>
<li><b>Repurchase? Definitely!</b></li>
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Duckyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11163256257296903307noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18919023.post-79368066776316665702016-02-24T18:56:00.000-08:002016-12-15T21:00:34.897-08:00Review: Curology (formerly Pocketderm)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Q6ySgBL_m3ObzklOH9RxwSKar2S7hDIsGEjHs0p8sYD4oTte4_OojRFZw-wNDnDfZ5rKa9jEnZcIehIaqzNVOopiXGNPZ37FB1Hq-84KYNBdqZI-_4TKv__nQuGMyN0VKMGZ/s1600/20160223_215632.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="curology pocketderm" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Q6ySgBL_m3ObzklOH9RxwSKar2S7hDIsGEjHs0p8sYD4oTte4_OojRFZw-wNDnDfZ5rKa9jEnZcIehIaqzNVOopiXGNPZ37FB1Hq-84KYNBdqZI-_4TKv__nQuGMyN0VKMGZ/s320/20160223_215632.jpg" title="" width="284" /></a></div>
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In my last post I introduced Curology and rambled a bit on how the online telemedicine service works (read <a href="http://duckymuffin.blogspot.com/2016/02/ramblings-acne-medications-ive-tried.html">here</a> if you're interested) so that this one could dive straight into the details (and gory pictures).<br />
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Each Curology lotion has 3 actives that the prescriber chooses and some <a href="http://cosdna.com/eng/cosmetic_5aec207382.html">inactives</a> that stay the same. With the first formula I received my NP took into account my general dryness and possible allergy to retinol so I ended up with <b>4% Azelaic Acid, 1% Clindamycin and 4% Niacinamide</b>.<br />
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<u>Azelaic acid</u> was a new ingredient I hadn't encountered but was supposed to lighten hyperpigmentation and have "antibacterial, antifungal and pore-unclogging properties." <u>Clindamycin</u> is an "antibiotic & anti-inflammatory with powerful effects against acne-causing bacteria" and the ever popular <u>niacinamide</u> <span class="why-text" style="opacity: 1;">was chosen to counter "acne, inflammation and hyperpigmentation." I was iffy on the efficacy of the clindamycin given my previous lukewarm results but figured the azelaic acid sounded promising. Plus, I was too scared to request anything with tretinoin and the NP let me know this formula was one of the mildest she could prescribe. (She also recommended benzoyl peroxide facial wash, zinc pyrithione soap and spearmint but I only used those sporadically so this review won't cover them.)</span><br />
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<span class="why-text" style="opacity: 1;">The sturdy pump bottles housing the Curology lotions are hygienic (although lamentably opaque so hard to tell when nearly out) and dispense the creamy white lotion easily. My 2nd bottle was defective so I had to scoop things out with a Q-tip until they sent me a replacement but the customer service was excellent throughout and every other pump since has been fine. There's no smell and the absorption is fast (yay!) so my skincare routine puts the Curology lotion after my essence and before my heaviest night cream at bedtime.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9tMYLzidVaB1Fe7rHkKXxNgxibTXyaHjAmIsOh-xq0EeEWm0z4Uz0qdxaltcE6KFrxR4TgdikH6uRU-TjviC-Lg61LfygiVl2rJ7x8CvPJkSnkGGb623DJwlbF6WYQ4wFiW7W/s1600/Texture.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="curology pocketderm" border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9tMYLzidVaB1Fe7rHkKXxNgxibTXyaHjAmIsOh-xq0EeEWm0z4Uz0qdxaltcE6KFrxR4TgdikH6uRU-TjviC-Lg61LfygiVl2rJ7x8CvPJkSnkGGb623DJwlbF6WYQ4wFiW7W/s200/Texture.png" title="" width="197" /></a></div>
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<span class="why-text" style="opacity: 1;">I started slow and applied only every other night but it was clear from the start my skin had no trouble adapting to Formula #1. I had zero side effects (no dryness, redness, stinging, flaking, etc) so after a week I applied it every single night. Again, I didn't notice any adverse effects. By the end of week 2 I added back my beloved BHA/AHA actives</span><span class="why-text" style="opacity: 1;"><span class="why-text" style="opacity: 1;"> into my routine</span> without issue. This should have been a major clue this formula wouldn't be the cure I was seeking. All the spectacular results I read about online also warned of the initial peeling/drying effects and that it would take time to adjust but I never encountered anything similar with this Formula #1.</span><br />
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<span class="why-text" style="opacity: 1;">In the pictures below it's obvious<b> neither cheek really benefited from this first formula</b>. After nearly 4 months you can see the old spots clear up but new ones continuing to appear. (Please ignore the white tint in some of the pictures... it's only acne cream I forgot to wipe off =)</span><br />
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<img alt="curology pocketderm duckymuffin" border="0" height="177" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuZAEgj9N7jLq6_MytNwkwNkK_E4p6_QHoBIyYzUE4xNSBLd121-X15l53eLvwVEExBUbl4IpKbovB1o6YQQtdjLXWZbsHK87mi9uTYbGkfuYV1CPyg00NeTCHJybxSxHfwfLE/s640/Right+cheek+Formula+1.tif" title="Right cheek over 4 months with Formula 1" width="640" /> </div>
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<img alt="curology pocketderm duckymuffin" border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbgPwgFZpqvFbKYLxbWcaWnkkzpaPafCbDHdC8grfhzoFG_igdmOwge_LH-kr_9z1bxWefy56RbmrdSX6hDlsT7DVqm0rMD620RxNMmr07vaRXsegw7hTrbvT5h-on0q1YDWK0/s640/Left+cheek+Formula+1.tif" title="Left cheek over 4 months with Formula 1" width="640" /></div>
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I'm not the best photographer and there are lighting differences from pic to pic (apologies!) but you can see I kept deluding myself that maybe... just <i>maybe </i>I just needed another month for things to start improving. The nice thing is that I kept my NP updated throughout and she was supportive of my switching to a stronger formula whenever I felt ready. Come end of last year I asked her to change my formula and the next one in the mail was <b>0.009% Tretinoin, 1% Clindamycin and </b><b><b>9% Azelaic Acid</b>. </b><br />
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Formula #2 more than <u>doubled the azelaic acid</u> and added in the lowest possible concentration of <u>tretinoin</u> (for unclogging pores). The NP felt such a low amount would minimize potential side effects and I'm glad we went with this 0.009% because many bloggers that started with 0.01% or higher all mentioned horrible peeling and dryness as a side effect! O_O<br />
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Within days of starting Formula #2 I knew <i>something </i>was finally happening. After application my face would<b> tingle/itch for 5-10 minutes</b> and I quickly cut out all of my usual BHA/AHA/Vitamin C serum to give my skin time to adjust. I dropped back down to a every-other-night schedule for a week and later increased the lotion to nightly. The tingling remains annoying but it's improved over the last month. At one point even other products (essence, creams, toners) would burn a bit and I remember each night feeling awfully itchy & sorry for myself while lying in bed trying to fall asleep. ^_^<br />
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After a month of usage only my jawline itches after application and this lasts about 10 min before subsiding. I've added my BHA back into my morning skincare routine but only use AHA and Vitamin C once a week because they still <i>burn</i> like heck. I get some <b>mild dry flakes</b> between my nose/mouth and some trace amounts at the corners of my mouth but nothing unbearable. By moisturizing those places a bit more I can compensate and since I always have on BB cream the flaking areas aren't too obvious if I don't touch or disturb them. I've also noticed my healing blemishes are mildly drier so foundation over them tend to look kind of cakey but it's not a deal-breaker.<br />
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<b><i>As to performance... </i></b><br />
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I was hard-pressed to see a large difference in the first 2 weeks but by week 3 I noticed a few nice things:<br />
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<b>a) Less/smaller breakouts: </b>Rather than having 5-10 active blemishes at any time that number reduced to 1-3 smaller ones<br />
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<b>b) Faster healing: </b>Spots cleared up more rapidly and were more responsive to OTC acne products (pink spot serum, scar cream, etc); the leftover hyperpigmentation is now fading faster compared to older scars<br />
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<b>c) Smoother make-up application: </b>It's easier to hide my acne because my jawline is much smoother compared to the textured mess from last year (see pics below)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwUl9tayl3jxJi_TQOZnW9kytvvSlbo52ImFKsHro67NHLrg_S15sR_UPktKc6GT7e-paR2tk93XWXrXMJAGQVy94IKt_ewrLE-gJu4UQA9I2jmYmKTtzwYIr195vNQsyOa04j/s1600/jawline.tif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="curology pocketderm duckymuffin" border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwUl9tayl3jxJi_TQOZnW9kytvvSlbo52ImFKsHro67NHLrg_S15sR_UPktKc6GT7e-paR2tk93XWXrXMJAGQVy94IKt_ewrLE-gJu4UQA9I2jmYmKTtzwYIr195vNQsyOa04j/s640/jawline.tif" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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Sorry for the lighting differences but you can see Formula #1 didn't really help too much and that my progress is all from Formula #2<b> (0.009% Tretinoin, 1% Clindamycin and 9% Azelaic Acid)</b>. Most of the dark spots in the last photo are healed blemishes with leftover hyperpigmentation. When I apply BB cream over my face it's so much less noticeable that I've even received compliments on my skin! (Those poor souls don't realize the power of make-up BAHAHAH!) I'm not sure if the tretinoin or the increased azelaic acid is doing the trick but my game plan is to continue with Formula #2 until I feel my progress plateaus and then decide whether to request a stronger formula at that point. I'm pleased as punch these days and only wish I asked for the ingredient changes earlier!<br />
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I'll keep updating with new pictures over time but if you're interested in trying out Curology you can use <a href="https://curology.com/invite/OIVWU8P">my referral link</a> for a free first month (includes a 3 month supply of lotion). The link gives me a $10 credit if you choose to sign up. =)<br />
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<b>Summary</b></div>
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<li>Packaging: 4/5 (hygienic; hard to gauge volume leftover product)</li>
<li>Smell: 5/5 (no real smell so perfect for a sensitive nose)</li>
<li>Performance: 4/5 (need to get right formula & results take time; mild side effects)</li>
<li>Value/Price: 5/5 ($19.99/month for accessible medical professionals & Rx meds)</li>
<li><b>Recommend? Yes </b>(feel free to use<b> <a href="https://curology.com/invite/OIVWU8P">my referral link</a></b> for a free first month!)<b><br /></b></li>
<li><b>Continue subscription? Definitely!</b></li>
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Duckyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11163256257296903307noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18919023.post-58860007699942323212016-02-23T10:13:00.000-08:002016-02-23T10:13:15.013-08:00Ramblings: Acne medications I've tried + Intro to Pocketderm / Curology<br />
The first acne prescription I ever tried was <b>Retin-A</b> (tretinoin) and I got this prescribed through my university doctor. I'd eagerly slathered it over my face, chest and upper back for 2 weeks before having to quit. Literally over one night I developed a severe rash on my <i>stomach</i> that confused my doctor enough she had to pull in another colleague to stare at the large scabbing wounds all over my tummy. =( They kept asking if I applied the Retin-A to that area but I don't get breakouts there so obviously no. In the end, they couldn't rule out this itchy rash was a side effect of the retinol cream and we abandoned it for other topical medications.<br />
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Next came <b>Differin</b> (Adapalene), a once-a-night cream that I applied faithfully for a year before discarding as useless. It never made a dent in my breakouts and towards the end I experimented with using it on only half my face to compare to the other untreated side. Results? Not much difference between the two halves! >_<<br />
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At one point I was prescribed an oral antibiotic, <b>minocycline</b>, but that lasted only 1-2 weeks because I was so <i><b>hungry</b> </i>all the time! The instructions stated I shouldn't eat 1 hour before or 2 hours after taking it but I eat every 2-3 hours because my blood sugar issues make me <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/07/20/health/science-behind-being-hangry/">HANGRY</a> if I don't. I remember setting my watch alarm to tell me when I'd be allowed to eat and my friends thinking I was nuts. I told the bemused nurse "I don't care if this works because I'm constantly starving!" Who cares about smooth skin if I hangrily scare off my friends, too? So the oral antibiotic route was no good.<br />
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Then came <b>clindamycin</b>, a topical antibiotic that I still feel neutral about. I only spot-treated so didn't see a vast improvement in my overall breakouts but kept using it because I figured it could help heal picked skin faster. In the end, I stopped because switching healthcare plans meant I had to pay<u> <i>over $100</i></u> for a small bottle and my cheapness won out. When the pharmacist rung me up he said "that will be XXX.XX" and I asked if that was some medical code I didn't understand. His response? "Uh no, that's the dollar amount of your prescription." X__X<br />
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So what next?<br />
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<a name='more'></a>I'm definitely not a skincare pioneer. I like to see positive reviews and research quite a bit before hitching a ride on any bandwagons but since last year I kept seeing mentions for online dermatology service <a href="http://curology.com/">Curology</a> (formerly Pocketderm) and enough crazy impressive Before/After photos that my curiosity won out.<br />
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The $20/month service gives users access to skincare professionals' advice and medication customized to skin problems (acne, aging, hyperpigmentation, etc) delivered to your door as needed. With my crappy health plan I have to spend $100 per visit to a specialist so derm visits would get pretty pricey for me and that's not even factoring in the actual cost of medications. Plus, my hospital appointments are so tightly scheduled I never feel like I get to ask all of my questions. (There's an online service I can use to message my providers but it's not user-friendly and the replies aren't prompt.) Basically, I figured I had nothing to lose on trying Curology since someone's affiliate link would give me the first month free & I could cancel anytime. <br />
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After answering questions about my skin/medical history & prescriptions I had to upload barefaced pictures of my face/neck and other problem areas for review. In the end I was paired with a nurse practitioner that always responded within hours if it was a business day-- extremely quick! She gave me advice about cleansers, supplements and info about the active ingredients she chose for my first bottle of lotion medication. A formula with 3 actives was mailed to my home and I was able to begin using it within a week of starting the whole process. Now it's 5 months and 2 formulas later & even though my face is still a work in progress, I'm confident I made the right decision to try out Curology (formerly Pocketderm).<br />
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I'll upload a more in-depth look at my progress with actual pictures of my face in my next post! =DDuckyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11163256257296903307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18919023.post-64386298063868236082016-01-24T20:16:00.000-08:002016-12-16T11:33:33.940-08:00Review: Tosowoong Propolis Natural Pure Mist Whitening Treatment<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiClsmXSx2e3cY98NcDSfTXNMsZ63xpv12hUV9WLdMMqKI05et_LREIJsEAfQ_71Sn2T66v6ibsZLnbxKQ1b55Vxt5_zvIqMEyKsTAddgI5AMqU0CpRHIcw7sDW3kj6eoOiEIGa/s1600/20160101_143127.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Tosowoong Propolis Natural Pure Mist Whitening Treatment" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiClsmXSx2e3cY98NcDSfTXNMsZ63xpv12hUV9WLdMMqKI05et_LREIJsEAfQ_71Sn2T66v6ibsZLnbxKQ1b55Vxt5_zvIqMEyKsTAddgI5AMqU0CpRHIcw7sDW3kj6eoOiEIGa/s320/20160101_143127.jpg" title="" width="174" /></a></div>
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Even though I didn't fall for Tosowoong's Tea Tree Essence (reviewed <a href="http://duckymuffin.blogspot.com/2015/10/review-tosowoong-tea-tree-natural-pure.html">here</a>), I was still attracted to their <a href="http://www.roseroseshop.com/tosowoong-propolis-natural-pure-mist-100ml.html"><b>Propolis Natural Pure Mist Whitening Treatment</b></a> because 1) my skin has always been compatible with bee products, 2) I need all the whitening I can get for my acne marks and 3) I haven't tried many mists & need to change this stat! =)<br />
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I love Mizon's 12.5% propolis blemish cream (reviewed <a href="http://duckymuffin.blogspot.com/2015/05/review-mizon-acence-ac-care-solution.html">here</a>) and find it effective for lightening acne marks so wanted to see if I could duplicate the success with another propolis product in a fun spray version.<br />
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<a name='more'></a>This mist treatment comes in a 100 ml spray bottle of nice quality plastic that feels better constructed than the essence I recently reviewed. The golden logos and honeycomb picture look yummy enough to make me crave honey tea. =P I chose this mist version over the essence because I figured it could be a convenient way to boost my facial hydration while working/studying without having to pause, wash my hands, pat things in oh-so-slowly, etc. On lazy days when I'm not wearing BB cream and staying indoors I like mists for freshening up and feeling like I'm adding skincare benefits to my complexion.<br />
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Unfortunately, <b>the spray is <i>very </i>strong</b>, a big negative for me. Who enjoys feeling like they're being hosed down?! I naturally close my eyes to spritz products on, but I started unconsciously clenching my eyes in fear before the bottle even came close haha. I had to start telling myself to relax and breathe naturally because I didn't want extra wrinkles! Eventually I adopted the method of using one hand to shield my eyes and the other to spray. I also learned to apply less pressure on the nozzle and spray in increments rather than push all the way down at once. This went a long way to assuaging my fears of accidentally assaulting my eyeballs. O_O<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOoOFKG2fyFHaVNgec07CAF67yhmOnX9gN6j6TTRxg84OAiztSUcJEojBCsbmW2Bj_xcQ-dndfAEZq7mYMxxo7ArHPn6-lFCy7zlEfsDGLrlAEWCx2waYzoNHWMSPAJNSlvudO/s1600/mists.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Tosowoong Propolis Natural Pure Mist Whitening Treatment" border="0" height="165" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOoOFKG2fyFHaVNgec07CAF67yhmOnX9gN6j6TTRxg84OAiztSUcJEojBCsbmW2Bj_xcQ-dndfAEZq7mYMxxo7ArHPn6-lFCy7zlEfsDGLrlAEWCx2waYzoNHWMSPAJNSlvudO/s320/mists.jpg" title="" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The watery texture spreads easily but leaves behind a sticky residue.</td></tr>
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The clear product is <b>watery </b>and comes out with a teeny bit of foam (not seen in the pics above) that resolves quickly. It's quite slippery and leaves a tacky feeling, almost like a residue, left behind as it absorbs/dries (meh). I'm surprised my nose registers a<b> mildly chemical smell</b> because I'd expected something more neutral or even "yeast-y" from the fermented ingredients. It's overall mild and fades quickly, though.<br />
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The star <a href="http://cosdna.com/eng/cosmetic_691a195564.html">ingredient</a> is <b>75% propolis extract</b> (yowza!), a number that feels impressively high. Just like the tea tree essence, this whitening treatment contains <b>niacinamide </b>(for brightening/anti-inflammation), fermented ingredients (<b>Bifida</b> & <b>Galactomyces filtrate</b>) and <b>sodium hyaluronate </b>for moisture/inflammation plus many antioxidants/plant extracts. <b>Honey</b> and<b> Royal Jelly</b> extracts are listed on the front of the bottle but appear far down the ingredient list so I'm not sure they're worthy of the star billing. In any case, those two have healing properties (anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory) and serve as <b>humectants </b>that draw in & trap moisture.<br />
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Based on these ingredients I'd expect a certain degree of long-lasting hydration as well as whitening action on hyperpigmented spots. I tested this product 3-5x/week over 2 months by either spraying on a cleansed face or over a light toner/essence that had already absorbed. Sometimes I'd spritz a few times, wait 1-2 minutes for absorption, then repeat to make sure I covered all areas. This part was necessary because the concentrated bursts of product from the nozzle made it difficult to distribute things evenly unless I patted/swirled everything in with fingers. Since the main attraction of a mist is the fingers-free part, I didn't love doing this.<br />
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My skin always felt plumper after the initial soaking wore off. If I overdid the acids or was feeling particularly sensitive that day then I felt a mild tingle (not quite a burn) from the mist treatment, but it usually subsided within minutes. After a few weeks I remembered to use my moisture/oil digital analyzer to see what I was getting from this mist and the results are below. I didn't have the patience to continue taking readings for 60 minutes like for my other Tosowoong product review, sorry! ^_^ Testing this mist during winter meant it was additionally challenged by space heaters and other moisture-sucking air flow and there's no way I could have lasted with bare skin or only 1 layer of skincare for too long.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjki6nYXAcuPOodqluUQvl-UjyJLhR8KhK89yu1eMeJGyU1xBvfQbDFVNELpNcAVpUGAme67HvK1vZYLO2iMBZL_rh-S8t35U3QKFFSSZtGTO-OsFR5B8yTPpA-MP_dyJH_Snwj/s1600/TosowoongPropolisWhiteningMist.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="115" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjki6nYXAcuPOodqluUQvl-UjyJLhR8KhK89yu1eMeJGyU1xBvfQbDFVNELpNcAVpUGAme67HvK1vZYLO2iMBZL_rh-S8t35U3QKFFSSZtGTO-OsFR5B8yTPpA-MP_dyJH_Snwj/s640/TosowoongPropolisWhiteningMist.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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The table above shows my facial moisture/oil distributions before and after the mist treatment in several locations. I came away with a few observations:<br />
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1) My face starts decreasing in moisture/oil north to south so the dryer areas (nose/lower cheek/chin) obviously gain more benefit from this product --> up to 15% increased moisture! The others gain a few modest percentage points but nothing super special.<br />
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2) It's important to spread the mist around with careful spraying or patting it around with the fingers because my upper forehead appeared to get dryer after the treatment but this was just a fluke (the area I chose to test didn't get sprayed well enough).<br />
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3) If layering other products over the mist then I needed to start within 15 minutes because the gain in moisture/oil levels from this mist starts dropping by then.<br />
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<b>So what's the verdict? Do the hydration and whitening benefits justify repurchase?</b><br />
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Ehhh... There are better moisturizers out there that last longer and are easier to dispense (finer sprays with more even distribution & no finger patting needed). One may argue the purpose of this treatment is to lighten dark spots, but I'm a little unsure about whether my hyperpigmented acne leftovers got any brighter, even after nearly 2 months of use. And if the answer is "iono" then <b>I can't really recommend this product</b>. There are more reliable brighteners out there (Vitamin C serums, hydroquinone, etc) and my face needs major assistance when it comes to lightening old blemish marks. I'm not sure why 75% propolis extract didn't seem to work so well but perhaps the delivery system was a factor.<br />
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Anyway, this mist is so annoying to use with its overly powerful nozzle that it would need HG performance for me to keep it in my regular skincare rotation. Given that this is far from the case, I definitely won't repurchase.<br />
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<b>Summary</b></div>
<ul>
<li>Packaging: 2.5/5 (hygienic; horribly strong spray; hard to control flow)</li>
<li>Smell: 3.5/5 (slightly chemical smell; fades fast)</li>
<li>Performance: 3/5 (so-so hydration; unsure on ability to fade hyperpigmentation)</li>
<li>Value/Price: 3/5 (~$20 on eBay; $18 on RRS + shipping)</li>
<li><b>Recommend? No </b>(there are better products out there for whitening/hydration)</li>
<li><b>Repurchase? No</b></li>
</ul>
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Duckyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11163256257296903307noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18919023.post-81644920383904768802016-01-01T16:45:00.001-08:002016-01-16T10:48:20.852-08:00Ramblings: It's 2016!<br />
This past year flew by so fast I'm shocked<b> this blog has been active for over a year now!</b> =) This started off as an online diary in college that I later erased because of inactivity and now it's evolved into a collection of skincare posts. I guess I should change the title from "Ramblings" to something more skincare-centric but I kind of still like my current one! ^___^<br />
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I haven't posted in 2 months but I'm actually still testing new products all the time. My laziness comes from lack of inspiration because I've run into a string of neutral/mediocre products. Reviews that gush praise for superstar items or pooh-pooh abject failures practically write themselves, no? Whereas "yeah-it-was-alright-I-probably-won't-repurchase" is harder to make interesting.<br />
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So to break the cycle of "meh" and to try something different I'm going to write about a mistaken assumption my friends/family have about me and my blog. Seeing that I maintain one devoted to skincare, you might <i>think </i>I really enjoy using such products every day. That pampering my
face and lovingly applying layer after layer of gel, cream, goo, etc
represents valuable quality time spent on myself.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>...And you would be wrong. </b></span></div>
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I
fall in love with skincare products from time to time when they really
deliver on their claims but if asked whether I <i>really </i>like the
actual act of applying them, waiting for absorption, remembering what to
add next, etc then you've got it backwards. My interest in skincare is
borne out of necessity because <b>I have dry, acne-prone, hyper-pigmented & congested
skin</b>. Even though it's come a long way with the addition of low-pH cleansers & acids, my complexion is a work in progress. When I go without BB cream and other
make-up tricks my face pretty much resembles a war zone of new blemishes and old
scars.<br />
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It's awesome when skincare
devotees find it relaxing to unwind by layering products on their faces,
gently pat-pat-patting their cheeks & massaging it all in via
circular motions while contemplating the bountiful antioxidants and
nutrients being delivered into their pores. Unfortunately, I find it
all a HUGE chore and I'm usually impatiently waiting to get everything
loaded onto my face so I can get out of the house or go straight to bed.<br />
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My
fantasy is that my skin condition one day improves to the
point that I can leave my house wearing only moisturizer/sunscreen ^__^. Laziness is a big driving force because I'd be thrilled to skip full-face foundation/concealer. Being able to stop with the double-takes (O_O) when I see my bare face in mirrors is the goal.<br />
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To that end, I'm always testing new products, a long (and too often unrewarding) process that takes 4 or more weeks per item so I know I'm really giving each one a chance and not giving up too early. Folks think I'm so dedicated and careful about the process of caring for
my face/complexion when the reality is that I have ulterior motives.
I'm not spending my time/$ to prop up the skincare industry for fun. This is <i>not </i>a random hobby. I'm on a quest for solutions! And I can put up with a lot as long as a product improves my breakouts or other skin problems. Are you smelly? Sticky? Made from fermented snails & hybrid caterpillars? <b>Well, don't worry. We can still be friends!</b> <insert crazy eyes> =D<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">So why blog?</span> </b></div>
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As much as I get annoyed with my huge skincare collection, shouldn't I dislike writing about it even more? To be honest, I have an embarrassingly lousy memory for the details behind products (texture, smell, performance, price, etc) and figured out early on I need to write down my thoughts. Otherwise, give it a few months and I start to get wooed into the hype around a skincare product that I know I already tried but can't remember why I stopped using. Being able to review my previous thoughts reinforces that I already tried it out in a methodical way and decided to break up with a particular skincare item. ("It's you, not me. All you!")<br />
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Another reason to maintain a blog is that I <i>always </i>research a new product before purchase and it's nice to read reviews that are unconnected to a product's company website. I figure if I'm going to the trouble of recording my thoughts on a skincare product I may as well share them with the online community. (Maybe someone will get some use out of them!) This blog is so subject specific I don't feel obligated to keep it interesting with continuous updates or coverage of a wide variety of topics. If folks are stumbling onto my site it's probably because they've googled for reviews on a specific product of interest and that works for me. I'm not in this to make money, get followers, sponsors or free products so I'm always flattered when my view count steadily increases (in spite of the bland format & low quality pics). <br />
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Anyway, if someone has actually read this entire rambling post, congrats! And <b>THANK YOU </b>as always for your interest! =)Duckyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11163256257296903307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18919023.post-91044878485767275862015-11-11T18:21:00.000-08:002016-12-16T11:34:24.501-08:00Review: COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAroyndQOisoBuzKIsWIyuKqxwDmRBLB1tnAel1E-mKyMxCmugyBM2Lp8lY3E_gkYs7AhBfueUQYNH8F-7_ZfiDxnxUt0njcQB0ICxC0rmTd3XpGekFq4xBt_Ynu4FH0_NN84j/s1600/20151111_163700.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAroyndQOisoBuzKIsWIyuKqxwDmRBLB1tnAel1E-mKyMxCmugyBM2Lp8lY3E_gkYs7AhBfueUQYNH8F-7_ZfiDxnxUt0njcQB0ICxC0rmTd3XpGekFq4xBt_Ynu4FH0_NN84j/s320/20151111_163700.jpg" title="" width="198" /></a></div>
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I was pretty satisfied with my current BHA product (reviewed <a href="http://duckymuffin.blogspot.com/2015/01/review-paulas-choice-skin-perfecting-2.html">here</a>), but that didn't stop me from recently giving into temptation and snagging a <a href="http://jolse.com/product/COSRX-BHA-BLACKHEAD-POWER-LIQUID-100-ML/3365/">COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid</a> from Jolse to see if I could duplicate the success via a cheaper version. My skin had a love-at-first-sight reaction to Paula's Choice 2% BHA and I've never had dryness, irritation or adverse reactions from using it. Within 2 weeks of starting this relationship the upper half of my face was blemish-free and only the stubborn lower half (the hormonal patches) remained unconquered. I didn't set out to cheat on my BHA but I figured a break would be okay (^_^) and maybe COSRX's BHA version would deliver different (better?) results given its active ingredient was <b>4% betaine salicylate</b> vs the tried and true 2% salicylic acid. Yes, I'm superficial enough to consider the larger percentage more attractive! <br />
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The short <a href="http://cosdna.com/eng/cosmetic_12b0202571.html">ingredient</a> list has the active ingredient <b>betaine salicylate</b> doing the heavy lifting but also has <b>niacinamide </b>(for brightening/wrinkles) and <b>sodium hyaluronate</b> (for hydration). My ever-present hyperpigmentation from past acne battles can always use lightening and I never say no to more moisture!<br />
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I really liked the hygienic pump that never squirted too much or too fast into my awaiting palm (no cotton balls/pads for me, just dabbing fingers) and the transparent 100 ml bottle would be helpful for gauging when to re-order. The clear and slightly viscous texture is less gooey than Paula's version but that's neither a plus/minus for me. (I always wait 15-20 minutes after applying acids to layer another skincare product over them and by that time everything is already absorbed.) There's also a much appreciated lack of odor, a huge win over Paula's smelly tire stench!<br />
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Unfortunately, here are where the positives ended. I could only try this product on and off over several weeks instead of continuously because within 1-2 days of using it my forehead produced a large breakout (unusual because I don't tend to break out above my nose). Instead of immediately stopping I assumed/hoped it was just a strange coincidence and kept applying this liquid every morning for an additional week. However, the first spot was shortly joined by a second, equally large and painful! =(<br />
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I took a break and re-started my Paula's BHA for the next 2 weeks before becoming brave enough to try COSRX again. This time I used BOTH simultaneously, COSRX in the morning and Paula's in the afternoon. No further blemishes on my forehead erupted during this time and the old ones slowly calmed down. After the 2 week period I attempted using only the COSRX liquid once a day and stopped Paula's. And guess what? Another forehead breakout occurred!! <br />
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The vast majority of my acne is hormonal and appears along my lower cheeks/chin. North of my nose (forehead, upper cheeks, temples, etc) rarely breaks out and if it does it's usually only with tiny bumps. That's why I'm convinced COSRX's BHA liquid isn't quite compatible with my skin. Best case scenario is that betaine salicylate is too weak for my stubborn face and there's only room for salicylic acid in my life. Worst case explanation is that the COSRX version actually caused the breakouts I experienced. I'm not interested in trying it further and testing this theory. <span style="font-size: x-small;">Originally I planned on taking nicer pictures for this review with different angles and/or showing the liquid texture on my hand, but I'm not motivated now given how unsuccessful things turned out!</span><br />
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Anyway, long story short is that I'll be returning to my faithful Paula's Choice BHA. No matter how much I wanted things to work out with COSRX we're clearly not fated to be. It may be cheaper, smell better and come in a nicer pump bottle, but I just don't get the same results that I'm used to from a BHA product. Sadly, I will not be re-purchasing.<br />
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<b>Summary</b></div>
<ul>
<li>Packaging: 5/5 (hygienic pump; sturdy; transparent bottle)</li>
<li>Smell: 5/5 (no obvious smell, yes!!)</li>
<li>Performance: 1/5 (didn't prevent breakouts & possible caused some?)</li>
<li>Value/Price: 4/5 (widely available $14-18 for 100ml on Jolse, Roseroseshop, etc)</li>
<li><b>Recommend? No </b>(there are better BHA products out there)</li>
<li><b>Repurchase? No</b></li>
</ul>
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Duckyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11163256257296903307noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18919023.post-1964892405036759492015-10-28T18:26:00.000-07:002016-12-16T11:36:23.363-08:00Review: Tosowoong Tea Tree Natural Pure Essence AC Control Treatment<br />
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" 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" 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I've been satisfied enough with my <a href="http://duckymuffin.blogspot.com/2015/03/review-benton-snail-bee-high-content_18.html">Benton Snail Bee Essence</a> to accumulate several empties but lately my troubled skin has been angrier than ever so I've needed to branch out and find a more acne-targeted one. <b>Tea tree oil/extract</b>, popular ingredients in acne skincare, have always scared me off with their strong plant smell, but a little online research led me to pick up <a href="http://www.roseroseshop.com/tosowoong-tea-tree-natural-pure-essence-60ml.html">Tosowoong's Tea Tree Natural Pure Essence</a>, a product that promised to deliver "AC Control" without the overpowering tea tree odor.<br />
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<a href="http://www.tosowoong.com/"><b>Tosowoong</b></a> is not a Korean brand I'm too familiar with but everything I've come across online gives it positive reviews so I was willing to take a chance on this essence. It turns out they have many skincare lines centered around an active ingredient (like snail, green tea, propolis, aloe, etc.) and everything is reasonably priced so definitely not a bad way to start exploring beyond my usual snail goo.<br />
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<a name='more'></a>A closer look at the <a href="http://cosdna.com/eng/cosmetic_6b86198368.html">ingredients</a> reveals more than just <b>tea tree water (70%) & extract (3%)</b>, but a few other awesome additives. We've got the popular <b>niacinamide</b> that's brightening/anti-inflammatory, fermented players (<b>adenosine</b>,<b> Bifida</b> & <b>Galactomyces filtrate</b>) that moisturize and also tamp down inflammation, the reliably hydrating (<b>sodium hyaluronate</b>), antioxidants (too many fruit extracts to list) and the ones that promote cell renewal/wound healing (<b>EGF, centella asiatica</b>). All super promising!<br />
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The<b> </b>straightforward 60 ml pump bottle is a hygienic way to dispense the clear gel essence and there's no discernible smell (yay =). <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFCqpt4_7yVRxhAykniY4EZ_HxYihIQVCdtF2laar9-oCQeIwE_Jl-8H8IZdnTBeDIcDLXUwm3Mtv8zckfYfIglTEaQS6_ghdWudTrgbmZoEwyj0r5rtAIXtwCYWJVj9T2HzgA/s1600/Tosowoong.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Tosowoong Tea Tree Natural Pure Essence AC Control Treatment" border="0" height="196" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFCqpt4_7yVRxhAykniY4EZ_HxYihIQVCdtF2laar9-oCQeIwE_Jl-8H8IZdnTBeDIcDLXUwm3Mtv8zckfYfIglTEaQS6_ghdWudTrgbmZoEwyj0r5rtAIXtwCYWJVj9T2HzgA/s320/Tosowoong.png" title="" width="320" /></a></div>
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A little goes a long way and the absorption is relatively quick, although a slightly tacky feeling is left behind. I'm not too hung up on the stickiness of a product because it's not something I physically feel unless I'm poking at my face (and why would I do that?!) so this isn't a negative in my book. In terms of hydration I get a modest boost for 30-60 minutes but the moisture level drops back down afterwards so an additional lotion or cream moisturizer is necessary.<br />
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I recently obtained a <b>digital analyzer</b> for skin <b>moisture/oil</b> percentages and have gone a little nuts with testing out various spots on my face (forehead, upper/lower cheeks, nose, chin, etc) with and without different products added at different time points post-cleansing.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFAut2zoY7TIiS30fsuDTm029w31fZn_XNfK9JND9SZnL2jbGxvHH_oI9JwUrv5lwWfsAE-5KiNfFwVsM9iYVDzHzsv919nVDGAzHdNevRrdbPZawv0W81EP6G8Kh7wqh_WWE1/s1600/20151027_094528.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFAut2zoY7TIiS30fsuDTm029w31fZn_XNfK9JND9SZnL2jbGxvHH_oI9JwUrv5lwWfsAE-5KiNfFwVsM9iYVDzHzsv919nVDGAzHdNevRrdbPZawv0W81EP6G8Kh7wqh_WWE1/s200/20151027_094528.jpg" width="122" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The skin analyzer shows a water/moisture % plus an oil %</td></tr>
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My skin type has graduated from pretty dehydrated/dry to mostly normal over the past few years and it's great to see numerical evidence that my products are helping! My homemade graphic below illustrates the testing points I usually use (don't laugh!). One side of my face is clean and acts as the control while the other side will get loaded down with product. Then I lightly press my digital analyzer onto the test points, add some sound effects ("pew pew pew!" a la Star-Trek phaser) & write down the digital values.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2zjyBWDm5B1GE3z7otswykGNu5AdIQZf9wdd_9ZBvDSHWBVgQclaMLmZayOhuoRtT__HuwB4noVvzpUCGo1nhGmmdxIGUdJAhsu3fzgO6Ypd01KuZnWBezdwml58iMSB8dDQ1/s1600/Face.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2zjyBWDm5B1GE3z7otswykGNu5AdIQZf9wdd_9ZBvDSHWBVgQclaMLmZayOhuoRtT__HuwB4noVvzpUCGo1nhGmmdxIGUdJAhsu3fzgO6Ypd01KuZnWBezdwml58iMSB8dDQ1/s200/Face.png" width="200" /></a></div>
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This Tosowoong tea tree essence is the first that I've subjected to such testing and the graphs below are the results. (I double cleansed with my usual <a href="http://duckymuffin.blogspot.com/2015/01/review-clinique-take-day-off-cleansing.html">Clinique oil cleanse</a>r and Tosowoong's Enzyme Powder Wash beforehand.)<br />
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<img alt="" height="177" 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" 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" 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aBnaa53z0Muz6nM6NGJPUk5JbnqkhmpgBIyGi3I0vz4Z+ezQN9zaX3Xhf11q+fJJTwvXTuSjQcHVll7GV0+Id7F+CQyWr75z3A+cTre/cEvkgsvex9KCHSsjYw20rmzpCaj5ausR3/wr78nve9dF/aHTP06OrHnqXM/SSbsfuvelZ3H9/o+RGCB5s/oSexO4uRKrsWNJiWj5atbPU9ObP725p/D5xFMRgpmK+MsYpQ30Bfq0ZBu5/G95LxldhVP5S1ZZiFZgjJ8zu5BXBKJVdNKrWOqd6Kzygf1aCzI9qNPkvKI63J58/bk2ReTCWA9i+MwTBACtZHRk1gL5Oyq2i6mQCejoWblkd/tvB1eHhnNVlrQV6EkoyFQW7WObKYwMhr9y+bs3nv5N4ETwH77Lz8goyFQm/XoJKcn1Dogz/ajT/yzCfrHApLR6Evb5wyDl/RuxWpm9If7fvzus7uttw/3/bjv1g2GXh5JpjQhoyFQOxldXEm5u5xezYx+99nd6rXXrLd3n93dd+uG6vMvH5LREKiVjLbUoLvJaTKajG4RGQ2B2spo29Kd08lkwSFNRpPRLSKjIVBL9ehZsaPjNYTIaEtGb2+rO3fUnTvqwYO+Wzow3UwoCNTCteCD8vixunmzIqPN+48eVSdPqpMn1daWunxZXb6sbt5Mc/zx40U3mTOcwDwWPqeSJ6CT1+VP0NZpDuyPr0RGf/WV2tlRFy+qN97wBXHVQxW3N95Ic/zSpTTHkxC/e3fO5lOZAebR39yk03EUjcd5AVtbbTn4hOPSZvQ336jbt9WlS+rEiVpB/O6zu9Xly+rUqTRwDx9uGNnm7fDhdJunTqUh/vHHaY5/8YXnUAaU0XT5IVBfcypNx1E0nmonGYunG7XA9lm2jL5zR12+rE6e9GXliRNNUi8J09u303i9dCkN3FnfvJ3b66+nmz1/Pt3Rzs6AMnpATcXq6Cej04TWknk6jgpDQmZP8FuGjH7wQG1vq8nE1+d94w118aLa2VFffaWUeu+7z7u6e+999/mGzXj8OM3xGzfSeD1zJg3co0fnCe6K4Dt5Ul28mO5Rv2WddP02d+HFj4yGQH1ktJbHDTJ6c3NzbWZ9fb2D9rbv4UP10Ufq1Cm1seHrk54/r27e7OC0XqgHD9Ks3N5OkzQJcVtBJjSjW+m/Z8V0/XbmjCX6szp76fbVV4qMhkh9ZLR2bjCrXJcyeglrHV98oT7+WJ054+uWHj2qtrbUjRv+Cq9c33yTRt7OThqI5893kdEt3choCNTzHP/2CxOX5pzh48fqxg21taWOHXNGw8aGOnNGffyxericS2JXBF+S6TdvWjq8Fy9aesfePjsZjeUjJqNVoX8dOKRaYkYnQ+XOn1evv+6Mg8OH1alT6qOPVuEyk46Cz1rByGoy+i0b9KLfjh4loyFTuxmdpmw8KdeXF0RKRidD5bQhzPbbZKK2txd94kuahZzhXAwyGgK1mNH5AOl4YpwEXIy2MrrhwNg7d1xDmPPbiRPq0iV1504r7cRCkdEQqMWMnsSjUTyZlS8GldE1Ppx376rt7YohzMlQudu31TfftNI8dGNAXX6sjkVl9HQcLXKijlRHGf3gQTpUzjOEORkqNxvCDACtaLMeXR5TN5x6dMPxYceOqa0tWUOYASyXds8ZanN2dDJLaQ8ZffRoOlRuoEOYgf4EXj8MXcu1jg76zrqOMnpjIx0qt6RDmLEcXji0ZZ38+oVDWwGvLkyKVidJawSvsIwu/vLvNrvCtT2uo9t/gR7OGfakPI+r8n0ndv1zBjK41pEJW0RGP8ufnlsKIz6jp+PIfjCBlzP3rO1+dLcF6VXJ6PI8rulnqDhXYGYS6xdsSu0doHXtZbSWXpYry/QedxT5+wP5y6PxNM/o4kDd8lNH2tp749kzbXvXLlL2RE6NjDY3Xr7H2Je1kfZjb5aLZLRS0jPamMd1xpHRhScMoJ+AYG/du/LE6diz6GKt+0cn9jxxOt64dVYpVcjobDIG6wwN5T87T+e4/AeYPlV7hf1vOH2d9lMx69mbL6jcmi+ji98KlZ8xy75sjTSPvbKRbj1fCz6ntloueWCsOY9rxvWP3fgbG8J5ArpZRo9O7PnWye8rpUr1aO+s7qUl8AoZnW0lzdhieidPLS0Hkj3FqIhPij8d8yDU/7JdWzMfMj4PZh/GXN2vcI9tX9ZGWiLa1chKZLRstnlcM5VfyMGTU2EY1v/xx9Yzet/VV5VS9sKYkdHF/xvN5n1wr2fqymjzD1e/1/LTsfTHnkdndUGvdj3amdTjivfIm9FNO0ztrpWlNaqTn9nLn9G2eVz1B6v+3buudthPVxYLc5Y2NupfoKTFerR2n2c2yuQl7ow2XpLXOsy/XO1PdRJ7+tFGgyvzr8k5Q3Oj03FkDWlHI0vHPkdIt5PRZina9suifcuf0ZrQfnTpb6bTeoftdGXFeIHSOpZUZ5prP6OV5ZyhWRNJ77HFXek723LOUHtZvqs4jh0ZbavIVA1kCqpHj5JvG/uh2e8xa5CFT6R57M26IovM6OFcZzgI5ezNZX8r5t9Vb5GXRW/xo2+tAPaW0U16/doLpX2fPPerM9bx0c/96kzfTUNzC6t1dGKlMnoQLKcrC31n1w/qXr5RGvT6Z88uDoUEFodzhlgI/Svb1usvPjP7ndlT7AX3+pVnKCSwCIyPxoJYA85ItsKzui52NOj1e4ZCAotARqM9Vacr/acMuz/FmQnt9XuHQgKLsLBaB2PvVpHtdKX9FGYex+YlwH0I7vUXMVgQi0Y/GquqQa/f8WpgcRaY0R10MchozKFJr19pd5HR6ADjOgBArhXNaNc1P5aJGG2PUYUE0I2W5/jXpsXq4pdg05bbZ1j21h+5ZBlAD9qtR5cuSx/AOcPiRC6eBpPRAHrQbj96NjdsMmGhO8iq5kkILSa0UOsozIIb+Sa6YFZmAJ1rsx49C7HZ9FTOoLWWGkod1aCUnr/l+a7KSwXZZkLs+5JlAKumhYyepmvNNhkfnQezfcWH6tbP0/LCroyZGgqt7/WSZQArq5+MNssGpdjzLJG2ubm5NrO+vt6kxfaLF2zruekvEXDJMoBV0/PYu8LilmEZrWvacscMy5bTndIuWQacPtwXW9fk/HBf3HfTUoGfa+h6Hx+tjQbpp9YBLAnX8vZha9sbK76GqhG8ZHQD7WZ02MgMa6mhYuU0OzIayMyf0UGXClheSEYvUMvXsNQtR49Knefws41KKTIaq+b2bXXsmDWI0yyuc7967TV17Ji6cUMpZQ5syk/mlz+V+udXG6/qWWJ79rBlPcPipCjFbU3iZJVX596180e1gmNQWp5TKftnmg2TXiwyGqvFHdANM/q119Thw0op+zlz66/b8pgnT+e4XLPM1wX3XzmWvm4Sj/TTQfHE+oLKrQ0cGQ0Mx/Z2+xl9/rxSyr7itn1EbNLhLVz9VRiXmvWEjdNK2nVultq3URG3Lrld2nv59/vy1VLarEd3PzkpGQ1k2qtHzxgZbZQmk0uKHR91T0bbr+PV6hnOjC7tffmvVmj3nKGj0LwwZDSQaT+jK87kJy9xZ7TxkrzWYZ1XUl+urCKjtQYve0i3kdHGycLOYpqMBjLvf+956/jo97/3fMCrHVFnnDM0ayLpPbagLs3MYzlnWLo2LN1sHDsy2laRcU41vBzayGjzAkMyGgDa0GY/uvuvMDIawHJrqx5drHd0VR0iowEst9avBe/0tCEZDWC5tZ7RenGajAaAubSU0T2NIyejASy3VsfedT5IkYwGsNwYewcAcnENCwDI1fsc/3MZbssBIAQZDQBykdEAIBcZDQBykdEAIBcZDQBykdEAIBcZDQBykdEAIBcZDQBykdEAIBcZDQBy9ZTR2VR5+kzT2vx5gRNQk9EAllsvGT2J0wyejqMsjidx9p/63V5kNIDl1nOtYzqO0jCexPpUplpg+5DRAJZbvxk9HUdpMuf/NXvAldGbm5trM+vr6900FAB60WdG67kcntE6+tEAlltvGV2qOZcymloHAKi+MnoSGwtp6ZnNOUMAUEr1k9Hl9Q9naa2NvQtcCZGMBrDcuIYFAOQiowFALjIaAOQiowFALjIaAOQiowFALjIaAOQiowFALjIaAOQiowFALjIaAOQiowFALjIaAOQiowFALjIaAOQiowFALjIaAOQiowFALjIaAOQiowFALjIaAOQiowFALjIaAOQiowFALjIaAOQiowFArv4yehKPRqN4Ur4nEY2nIdsgowEst34yehKPRvFkEusZPYmzZJ6Oo7CUJqMBLLc+ax2FjHYGtg8ZDWC5Scno6TjSM3o6jlwZvbm5uTbz61//eg0YlM3NzQ4+XFgaa4PLaABYHUIzOrDWAQDLTUpGF84TBp8zBIDl1k9Ga6PstIF22r2FMXkAsKr67EcDAPzIaACQi4wGALnIaACQi4wGALnIaACQi4wGALnIaACQi4wGALlWPKOn40i74FHs1Y3l9RDkNltrmXY1f/3VGzpjubhVcGuxgshoURFnYVsPQWyzJ7E+50raxCarN3QjeW+N+4S2FquJjDbDbhJH43Gc9a3SblW/H9aAjJbV7Dzq7Ks3SGhtsWW2+yS1FiuKjDZrBpN49vGbxLNPYt89VzOjZTY7b9lst46ZwQW0djqOoigqvo9yW4tVteIZrcl/9+Z5qH0Me151wNblmz0gstlZncCden23ttCy9H2U21qsKjI6k/06l/iBdGa03GanDXOs3iCgtcWWJQ2S21qsKjJ6RmqHNGvdAPrReiuzhtlXbxDQ2tKe826/zNZiRa14RuuLDejpIugDaVsPQWyz9UJ5sTtqqZ733tpCews9apmtxUpa8YwGANHIaACQi4wGALnIaACQi4wGALnIaACQi4wGALnIaACQi4wGALnIaACQi4wGALnIaACQa21tbfTKK6+sAQDkeeWVV/4PnyTLbmvbxKkAAAAASUVORK5CYII=" 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" 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" 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I know I went overboard with this digital analyzer toy (my new preciousss) so this will probably be my one and only review to use it again in such an extensive way. First, it was torture to NOT apply anything to half of my cleansed face for 60 minutes in order to have a control for comparison. My skin begin itching and feeling tight around 30 minutes but I didn't want to end the experiment early because the overall trends were becoming clearer and dangit... I wanted just one more data point!</div>
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To summarize, my upper cheek got the most moisturizing boost from this essence and my chin the least, but all areas started moving back towards the baseline "no essence" moisture levels by 60 minutes. Given that I'm trying this product for its acne-fighting ability (and not for hydration) this is perfectly acceptable. I'm obviously going to add more lotion and heavier moisturizers over any essence product so the hydration is only a side benefit.</div>
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<b>As to actual performance...</b></div>
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I used this essence 1-3x per day over 6 weeks and I am sad to say I did not experience a significant decrease in the number of breakouts or an improvement in their healing time. All my acne-prone areas continued to feature their monthly visitors at the same rate. Whether it was for my closed comedones, cystic bumps or other blemishes, this essence was unable to put a dent in my skin troubles. =( I do want to mention my spots are stress/hormone-related and mainly appear on the lower half of my face. For folks with milder acne they may still like this essence but I can't recommend it for others suffering issues like mine.</div>
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Perhaps the tea tree concentration is too low for me or I'm not sensitive to this ingredient. I've got my eye on Leejiham's Tea Tree 90 Essence Serum now because its tea tree extract is at 90% as opposed to the measly 3% in this Tosowoong version. It's significantly pricier but hopefully this is a "you get what you pay for" situation. I'm also considering trying the Tosowoong Propolis Essence because it has 75% propolis as its active ingredient and I've always responded well to bee products. At any rate, I will use up my Tosowoong Tea Tree Essence because it's a cheap moisturizing agent I can layer onto my face after cleansing but I definitely won't repurchase it.</div>
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<b>Summary</b></div>
<ul>
<li>Packaging: 4/5 (hygienic; functional; pump is a bit cheaper plastic)</li>
<li>Smell: 5/5 (no obvious smell, yes!!)</li>
<li>Performance: 3/5 (nice bit of extra hydration, minimal effect on my acne)</li>
<li>Value/Price: 5/5 (~$10-15 for 60ml on RRS, eBay, etc)</li>
<li><b>Recommend? No </b>(there are better acne products out there)</li>
<li><b>Repurchase? No</b></li>
</ul>
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</div>
</div>
Duckyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11163256257296903307noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18919023.post-23647974783725787592015-10-07T18:40:00.001-07:002016-12-17T18:18:11.965-08:00Review: Mizon A.C. Care Solution Tea Tree Tock Blemish Spot<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjziV9o6SaAUzi4B-LiRQ8w-8Oc_c5gQg50WWBpTOy2UqQcOG9UvbgK8xxkOzcPQ-BFhdW-L4DFV2uUtPBC_PNrf6EC7tbtZQS7if_7goXNFB2vzDyFksibLDHutlBbbE0qSJbo/s1600/CIMG3503.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Mizon A.C. Care Solution Tea Tree Tock Blemish Spot" border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjziV9o6SaAUzi4B-LiRQ8w-8Oc_c5gQg50WWBpTOy2UqQcOG9UvbgK8xxkOzcPQ-BFhdW-L4DFV2uUtPBC_PNrf6EC7tbtZQS7if_7goXNFB2vzDyFksibLDHutlBbbE0qSJbo/s400/CIMG3503.JPG" title="" width="400" /></a></div>
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This blog might seem a bit biased towards <b>Mizon </b>products but I think my abundant reviews for this brand are more a testament to my love of free shipping than anything else! =D <a href="http://roseroseshop.com/"><b>RoseRoseShop</b></a>, my favorite online retailer for Korean skincare, offers Mizon items with <b>free shipping</b> so I have the perfect excuse to continue buying, testing & reviewing their products on a regular basis. This, of course, then gets translated to extra helpings of Mizon reviews sprinkled throughout my blog!<br />
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The <a href="http://www.roseroseshop.com/mizon-acence-tea-tree-tock-blemish-spot-15ml.html">Mizon A.C. Care Solution Tea Tree Tock Blemish Spot</a> is a part of their Acence line that targets troubled skin. ("Acence" = "Acne" + "Science?") This is basically a spot treatment that uses <b>tea tree</b> leaf oil and extract as the active ingredient. I found this blemish solution to be cutely packaged & fun to dispense/apply, but ultimately less than awesome in achieving its purpose. However, instead of considering this a waste of $, I've actually <i>re-purposed</i> this product into a useful part of my night-time skincare routine, just not as the makers probably intended (more details to follow)..... ^__^<br />
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<a name='more'></a>The clear plastic container enclosing the tube of product is visually appealing & a nice stand-out from the usual cardboard boxes that house skincare items. It reminds me of a test tube (probably an intentional part of the design aesthetic) or a medical product (like a vial of super-secret-antidote straight out of a spy movie!). The professional & geeky vibe is a bit wah-wahhed with the enclosed Engrish label/instructions:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpLYLoILI1w1GfWN1xnIKWtvdcMcgE0rHbPHGjvXLjNb3Gz9Uo0IPYqqCNFDS4Kvc8I8bZGdeMDFKJfBMExSgBNXm6NJOB_O6zpB8bB71Z4fatnnC4xLH21PzDRl4dM-LbvFjm/s1600/CIMG3506.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Mizon A.C. Care Solution Tea Tree Tock Blemish Spot" border="0" height="194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpLYLoILI1w1GfWN1xnIKWtvdcMcgE0rHbPHGjvXLjNb3Gz9Uo0IPYqqCNFDS4Kvc8I8bZGdeMDFKJfBMExSgBNXm6NJOB_O6zpB8bB71Z4fatnnC4xLH21PzDRl4dM-LbvFjm/s320/CIMG3506.JPG" title="" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">THE EMERGENCY TREATMENT GEL HELPING A RAPID SEDATION AND AN INTENSIVE MANAGEMENT OF THE TROUBLE WHERE THE INGREDIENTS OF TEA TREE, SALICYLIC ACID CAME UP COLORFULLY AND CONSPICUOUSLY, FORMS A THIN FILM MEMBRANE AND PROTECTS THE SKIN FROM MORE TROUBLE FACTORS AND OUTSIDE STIMULUS.</span></blockquote>
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<span style="font-size: small;">PICK IT UP AND APPLY IT ON THE INFECTED PART WITH THE TROUBLE COMING UP AND TAP IT NOT TO FLOW.</span> </blockquote>
Umm.... yeah. Anyway, the gist is this spot treatment is to be applied to new blemishes and will form a thin film over them to control inflammation and serve as a protective layer. I couldn't find a list of ingredients on Mizon's site (& RRS/Mizon didn't reply to my queries boo) but <a href="http://www.beauteque.com/mizon-acence-tea-tree-tock-blemish-spot/">this site</a> posted them and when I uploaded it into <a href="http://cosdna.com/eng/cosmetic_a8ee206252.html">CosDNA</a> there were no blatant acne triggers above 1-2. Since I'm unable to find this ingredient list reproduced anywhere else I'm a little leery of its reliability. (Plus, it has strangely repeated "water" a bajillion times so it doesn't even look reliably copied/pasted.) Anyhoo, despite all this I'm operating off the assumption this is real & want to make a few comments. I rarely go in-depth into ingredients because I figure people can look things up if they want but this one was pretty fascinating!<br />
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The star ingredients are the<b> 15% tea tree</b> <b>leaf extract and oil </b>(Melaleuca Alternifolia), known to be <b>anti-microbial</b> and<b> anti-inflammatory</b>. Mizon has also thrown in other familiar plant extracts with similar properties: <b>propolis </b>extract, <b>witch hazel</b> (Hamamelis Virginiana Leaf Extract), <b>ivy </b>(Hedera Helix Extract), <b>salycylic acid </b>& <b>pine bark</b> (I sometimes take this as an oral supplement). There were a few, however, that I needed to look up:<br />
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<b>Coptis Japonica </b>(aka gold thread; canker root): has nearly 100 <a href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/?term=coptis+japonica">PubMed articles</a> mentioning anti-malarial, anti-indigestion, antioxidant, anti-bacterial & anti-inflammatory behavior but I zeroed in on <a href="http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1468-2494.2010.00583_5.x/abstract">one</a> describing its ability to inhibit fat cell formation & therefore <u>decrease sagging/swelling skin</u> (iiiinteresting).<br />
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<b>Centella asiatica </b>(aka gotu kola; Indian pennywort): has >600 <a href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/?term=centella+asiatica">PubMed articles</a> describing its anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, anti-anxiety, anti-Parkinson's abilities and how it helps with <b><a href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3834700/">wound healing</a></b> by <u>increasing collagen & decreasing scar formation</u> (Yes!! I need this =).<b> </b><br />
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<b>Cordyceps sinensis</b>:<b> </b>a <u><span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>fungus+caterpillar</b></i></span></u> combo <span style="font-size: large;"><b>°□°</b></span><b> </b>used in Chinese medicine with >1000 <a href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/?term=cordyceps+sinensis">PubMed articles</a> detailing its positive effect on cardiovascular, urinary & respiratory health, plus how anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, cancer-fighting and just plain awesome this creepy combo can be.<br />
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Okay, folks. I'm SOLD. I didn't think any weird ingredient could top snail filtrate, bee venom or fermented yeasty goodness but this is officially the strangest thing I've ever put on my face in the name of skincare. Who knows? <b>Caterpillars </b>may be the next snail of skincare HAHA!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">P.S. I did notice <b>menthol </b>included in the ingredients and this is something many folks are sensitive to (including my sister) so I want to point it out in case it's a deal-breaker for anyone.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Anyway, this 15 ml product goes a long way because the dispensing tip is conservative (I've been using the same tube nearly 1 year) but I've noticed sometimes pressure can build up and it'll spurt out a large volume all at once. It's not a big deal and overall I really enjoy how this feels like an old-school glue stick.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuv6KH4N6J9OqXc-omHow81MLub98j0zQ7S3TE4-2AyodQsBg9ZAPZBxlvFcSqhemKEkJsOmjNY2bsnitpAedksI69YmaRSYtqS3g-xMsvGfjSexs0eZvrPs_fpB0n_N9Wm5Br/s1600/CIMG3511.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Mizon A.C. Care Solution Tea Tree Tock Blemish Spot" border="0" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuv6KH4N6J9OqXc-omHow81MLub98j0zQ7S3TE4-2AyodQsBg9ZAPZBxlvFcSqhemKEkJsOmjNY2bsnitpAedksI69YmaRSYtqS3g-xMsvGfjSexs0eZvrPs_fpB0n_N9Wm5Br/s320/CIMG3511.JPG" title="" width="320" /></a></span></span></div>
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The clear gel has a slight alcohol/menthol/tea tree smell but nothing too strong. It's sticky texture also reminds me of glue and it stays tacky for 1-2 minutes before leaving behind a faint film. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzdIdA7m8PnKWpsu8DfDKCwCp2jv5R3dzX8SOfOpoU6lisS05hElp5UZyA4PpDhXwvRcnCJIbgyd7wfE91bwB-_iKYwxrfY9VHIAfvHBSl5Uomz3CWgzMPQs3iVgQI-6-1Yine/s1600/Acence+Tock.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Mizon A.C. Care Solution Tea Tree Tock Blemish Spot" border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzdIdA7m8PnKWpsu8DfDKCwCp2jv5R3dzX8SOfOpoU6lisS05hElp5UZyA4PpDhXwvRcnCJIbgyd7wfE91bwB-_iKYwxrfY9VHIAfvHBSl5Uomz3CWgzMPQs3iVgQI-6-1Yine/s320/Acence+Tock.png" title="" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sorry for the weird lighting difference!</td></tr>
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During my testing period (~2 weeks) I'd squirt the gel onto a finger tip and dab it where needed as one of the last steps in my nighttime skincare routine.<i><b> </b></i>The film supposedly protects blemishes from "outside stimulus" but it really isn't thick/strong enough to stay on my face if I rub against my pillow. I guess it's my fault for being such a snuggler (I love me some pillow hugs) but if I manage not to nuzzle it off the film will stay mostly put overnight. Sometimes I did notice the edges puckered away from the skin a la
wrinkled saran wrap if I didn't
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After application there's a slight tingle for a few minutes (likely due to the menthol & tea tree) but I wouldn't rate this an "intensive" product by any means. At the end of a few weeks' trial I didn't feel a measurable benefit from this blemish treatment. Whether I applied it or not my sad breakouts felt the same in terms of pain, inflammation, elevation, etc. I'd rather use something with a higher concentration of tea tree oil if I'm trying to rely on it to fight acne because my skin doesn't appear to be overly responsive. Those with more sensitive skin would
probably get a better response than I did but I had to conclude this Mizon product was not a winner for me.<br />
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<i><b>However... all is not lost!</b></i><br />
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Given that I was left with nearly a whole stick of gooey product, my cheapo habits demanded I find an alternative use for this unsuccessful spot treatment and <insert fanfare> I <i>actually </i>managed to find a use for it! I'm glad to say I was able to re-purpose this product into <b>pseudo-GLUE</b> for my hydro-colloidal patches!<br />
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Often I wake with my hydro-colloidal bandages littering my pillow case (or worse, my hair) because they fall off overnight. Whether from unconscious pillow-nuzzling or the patch losing stickiness, it's an annoying waste of acne product that doesn't do its job simply because it's not touching my skin. I've found dotting a bit of this Mizon product over the blemish and then sticking the hydro-colloidal piece over it works out really well. The gel sucks the patch on tightly and the film ends up acting like a mild adhesive so everything stays put into the morning! What can I say... the glue stick design really inspired me haha =D<br />
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<b>Summary</b></div>
<ul>
<li>Packaging: 4/5 (hygienic; interesting design; sometimes spurts too much)</li>
<li>Smell: 3/5 (significant alcohol/menthol/tea tree smell; fades fast)</li>
<li>Performance: 2/5 (no obvious effects; redeemed a bit as a pseudo-glue)</li>
<li>Value/Price: 4/5 (~$5-6 +shipping on RRS; lasts for ages)</li>
<li><b>Recommend? No </b>(there are much better acne/tea tree oil products out there)</li>
<li><b>Repurchase? No</b></li>
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Duckyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11163256257296903307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18919023.post-67275384136275947442015-09-19T09:59:00.002-07:002016-12-17T18:19:00.944-08:00Review: Mizon A.C. Care Solution Acence Blemish Out Pink Spot<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXlo3FIJI3M47VWeVTJv6YOyH3dMwbOS7oWUnwObrxS3tCoroheMqU2wxg8eY8PHhHZ8389eFWaiHk2JnAZ3veLG4Rl6pBKPwdYjW_SVRxCLpNjJV0EPbwl0pVfCMnbppeM247/s1600/CIMG3502.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Mizon A.C. Care Solution Acence Blemish Out Pink Spot" border="0" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXlo3FIJI3M47VWeVTJv6YOyH3dMwbOS7oWUnwObrxS3tCoroheMqU2wxg8eY8PHhHZ8389eFWaiHk2JnAZ3veLG4Rl6pBKPwdYjW_SVRxCLpNjJV0EPbwl0pVfCMnbppeM247/s320/CIMG3502.JPG" title="" width="320" /></a></div>
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I've previously commented on Mario Badescu's pink spot serum (reviewed <a href="http://duckymuffin.blogspot.com/2015/02/review-mario-badescu-drying-lotion.html">here</a>) but have since converted to another version: <b>Mizon's A.C. Care Solution Acence Blemish Out Pink Spot</b> (why do so many Korean products have ginormously long names?!), an acne treatment I've liked enough to re-purchase once already. =)</div>
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The gist of pink spot products is that the user dips a Q-tip past the yellow
liquid, into the pink sediment, draws it out and then dabs it over the
blemishes for overnight therapy. Sulfur, an active ingredient of these pink spot products, has a rap for being potentially irritating and stinky. The stinky part is right but I've found my skin responds well to sulfur if it's in a good formulation and I use in moderation. Many traditional acne treatments like benzoyl peroxide don't seem to do much for my breakouts so I'm glad I have a fall-back product when I'm not trying out new acne ingredients. </div>
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Compared to Mario Badescu's drying lotion, Mizon's has more <b>anti-inflammatory/anti-bacterial</b> substances (calamine, tea tree leaf oil, triclosan, coptis japonica root extract, portulaca oleracea, etc) that are plant-based. Plant-loving me gets embarrassingly excited at seeing these skincare goodies! </div>
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The Mizon <a href="http://cosdna.com/eng/cosmetic_31a0196367.html">ingredient</a> list on CosDNA also has alcohol listed in second place after water while Mario's has isopropyl alcohol as the main ingredient (insert frown-ey face). Glycolic & salicylic acid are included but my pH strips put the yellow liquid around pH 7 (too high for exfoliation benefits) so these probably aren't the star performers.</div>
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I did not re-purchase the Mario version because I found it too drying with a so-so performance. However, I'm so glad I gave the Mizon a tryout because I feel their formula delivers better results without stripping my skin. Whether it's because of the extra skincare benefits or the milder formulation, this product has been a dependable winner for me!</div>
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I regularly dab this pink spot treatment on after all of my evening skincare products have absorbed (about 4-6x/week). It's the last thing I use because it has great clinging power, penetrates everything else and the rough texture it dries into wouldn't allow for other products to be applied over it anyway (plus why would you even want to deprive yourself of seeing the beautiful pink polka dots on your face?!). </div>
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The main benefits I get from Mizon's pink spot treatment:</div>
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a) <b>Less pain</b> - new erupting spots are always uncomfortable and 1-2 nights of this blemish treatment always calms things down</div>
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b)<b> Less inflammation/redness/elevation</b> - bumps look smaller & less obvious so make-up applies more easily over it; if it's a small bump (< 3-4mm) I can flatten it overnight with this treatment! I also like how the edges of the blemish don't look peel-y or overly dried in the morning =)</div>
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c) <b>Draws pus closer to skin surface -</b> (sorry, I don't know how to describe this more prettily muahahaha) the timeline of a blemish often includes a concentrated area of white pus close to the skin surface; it's completely unattractive but also a good sign I'm nearing the end of the blemish life cycle so I can stick a hydrocolloidal patch over the spot and see the pus sucked away the next night! If it's a big cystic monster I may need pink spot treatment & hydrocolloidal magic more than once but that's alright with me because I can see the progress and improvement.</div>
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The Mario version always dried into clumpy flakes that littered my pillowcase by morning but the Mizon version flakes considerably less and stays mostly adhered to my skin. It's staying power is good for overnight therapy but does necessitate an extra cleansing step in the morning. I use toner on a cotton pad to gently loosen and rub off the remaining pink stuff before my morning wash. Otherwise, I'm spending more time working at the spots and potentially irritating my face.</div>
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Like with Mario's, my first Mizon Pink Spot bottle dried up over time and I was left with a significant amount of pink sediment without yellow liquid (see image below). I tried scooping up the moist sediment and continuing to use it but found it less effective in performance so the liquid is definitely crucial. Now with my second bottle I'm more careful to immediately screw the cap back on to decrease possible evaporation. You can see I wasn't too careful about stabbing my Q-tips around the bottle so there are pink streaks all over hehe... still better-looking than Mario's bottle because that one was considerably more narrow and harder to navigate!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6BvLFeLqW0Sui10BMtZeqfwK7_LveZF3QmcP6GqIZyznhYSs_RUTEMcNtnMlc9l-KgQ_cDWW9wxVJfAHd2k5Yh7RK_qIP-jIvzhvIYSRmcLWnxUJ_3X_thO16Kum152jpPxds/s1600/CIMG3488.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Mizon A.C. Care Solution Acence Blemish Out Pink Spot" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6BvLFeLqW0Sui10BMtZeqfwK7_LveZF3QmcP6GqIZyznhYSs_RUTEMcNtnMlc9l-KgQ_cDWW9wxVJfAHd2k5Yh7RK_qIP-jIvzhvIYSRmcLWnxUJ_3X_thO16Kum152jpPxds/s320/CIMG3488.JPG" title="" width="158" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My first bottle after the liquid dried up!</td></tr>
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Anyway, I'm happy I decided to give pink spot treatments another try with Mizon's A.C. Care Solution Acence Blemish Out Pink Spot (whew, running out of breath here). Not all pink formulas are created equally and I will definitely re-purchase this one when I'm out!</div>
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<b>Summary</b></div>
<ul>
<li>Packaging: 4/5 (sturdy; wide opening; easy to see when running low)</li>
<li>Smell: 2/5 (not pleasant; strong; takes getting used to)</li>
<li>Performance: 4/5 (reduces pain/redness/inflammation; best for fresh spots)</li>
<li>Value/Price: 5/5 (~$11+shipping on RRS; lasts for months & months)</li>
<li><b>Recommend? Yes! </b></li>
<li><b>Repurchase? Yes! </b></li>
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Duckyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11163256257296903307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18919023.post-79148510971344503702015-09-09T18:03:00.000-07:002015-09-09T18:03:29.433-07:00Review: St. Ives Oatmeal Scrub + Mask<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoC-fJDEjCRxF3YCXklV88J2Z-N8u0TlSF8rm9MBxRFWVUZ7esBuUO3sgCq9EXtPgv2qYSUEubYQimrNXb6olFplYl9dR-AYZFa6mBxpbsWcmg3KZBMo_rBXtaQUe4QGsl8kfO/s1600/20150908_152150.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoC-fJDEjCRxF3YCXklV88J2Z-N8u0TlSF8rm9MBxRFWVUZ7esBuUO3sgCq9EXtPgv2qYSUEubYQimrNXb6olFplYl9dR-AYZFa6mBxpbsWcmg3KZBMo_rBXtaQUe4QGsl8kfO/s320/20150908_152150.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div>
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As much as I love my AHA/BHAs and the powerful chemical exfoliation they give me, I still enjoy using physical scrubs to buff away dry flakes and help other skincare products apply more easily. My skin is acne prone so I'm wary of heavy duty scrubs but I've found gentler ones with smaller particles do just as well because I can adjust my scrub time and massage pressure depending on the dryness/flakiness of my skin condition to get the results I need.</div>
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<b>St. Ives</b> is a popular American drugstore brand and its <b>Oatmeal Scrub + Mask</b> is marketed as a gentle and nourishing exfoliating agent. I picked up this item for its cheapness ($3 to 4 on <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00GTC1H5U?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=ox_sc_act_title_2&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER">Amazon</a>!), positive reviews and its harmless-looking <a href="http://cosdna.com/eng/cosmetic_c733152265.html">ingredient list</a> (no acne triggers). My purpose was to find a dependable scrub & not so much a mask (although I have a few comments on that). After 2 months of 3-5x/week use I'm happy to say I made a good choice! =)</div>
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<a name='more'></a> The huge amount of product (170g or 6 oz) comes in a soft plastic tube with flip cap that is very squeezable. Maybe a bit too squeezable, actually, because I always dispense more than I want... ^_^ (Good thing this scrub was crazy cheap, eh?) The creamy white texture has tiny brown particles of oatmeal extract and looks exactly like the picture on the tube. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRBNzZz-_DZcl-RzHiHe-0ZoWmtiEzFHXH1FMxwQPqmgD4wbT8qgISyDtrR4k2EWKAq6l1qTtx__LIi9uICpzy4AIF_0QKLTKUu8eV2W_31CUb-s0oy7ixM5F90QpCG7j4lvuP/s1600/20150908_150945.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRBNzZz-_DZcl-RzHiHe-0ZoWmtiEzFHXH1FMxwQPqmgD4wbT8qgISyDtrR4k2EWKAq6l1qTtx__LIi9uICpzy4AIF_0QKLTKUu8eV2W_31CUb-s0oy7ixM5F90QpCG7j4lvuP/s320/20150908_150945.jpg" width="288" /></a></div>
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I wish the <b>honey </b>or <b>oatmeal </b>ingredients made up more of the fragrance because I smell only cocoa butter (not my favorite, but oh well) and it lingers after wash-off. It's not a deal-breaker by any means but it's definitely strong. Oatmeal & honey are popular ingredients found in <b>DIY acne mask</b> recipes for their <b>anti-inflammatory</b> and <b>antibacterial </b>benefits. Therefore, I was hoping to see some blemish-busting properties from these 2, but they're listed so far down the ingredient list for this product I really didn't have high expectations.</div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Quick off topic story: </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">In
the past I've tried oatmeal (blended to a rough powder) + water for a
simple mask and remember liking its gentleness but I was too lazy to
continue with it long-term. The wait time was too much for me and I couldn't move
my face or the drying splotches would shift and chunk off. Trying not to move facial muscles is tough, like if I'm told not to breathe too loudly I inevitably become Darth Vader haha. Gloppy masks are definitely clumsy but I can't stand using sheet masks, either, because it feels like such a time-out from real life to use them. Many skincare enthusiasts find them relaxing and multi-task while they slowly dry but I'm constantly aware of their cold sliminess & fight the urge to fling them off my face within ten seconds of applying. </span></div>
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<b>Anyway... </b></div>
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Like I mentioned, I really only bought this product to function as a scrub but I was curious to how it would perform when used as a mask. Unfortunately, the one time I tried it as a mask I had a rough time rinsing it off. Even though I only left it on for a few minutes (less
than the recommended 5-7 on the tube) the creamy texture congealed fast
and was surprisingly stubborn to remove. This totally defeats the purpose
because any nourishing benefits gets replaced with irritation as I
forcefully knead at my face to rinse everything off. >_< </div>
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As a scrub I like to use it on a moist face 3-5 times a week (post oil-cleanse & make-up removal or in the morning), especially if I've applied an AHA the same day or the night before. This way I can get rid of any exfoliated skin peelies and work with a fresh face ready to absorb my other skincare goodies. Depending on how dry or abused my skin feels I massage anywhere from 10 seconds to a whole minute. Sometimes I apply over my entire face but only concentrate the scrubbing to localized areas (chin, forehead, around my mouth, etc). Washing off this scrub is always easy and quick in contrast to the failed one-time Operation Mask. My skin ends up smoother and softer without feeling too abused and successive facial products apply more evenly. Most importantly, I haven't had an increase in breakouts, either!</div>
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Finer scrubs/polishes give smoother results with less effort but (surprise surprise) they're also way pricier. For the large volume, low price and decent results I'd say the St. Ives Oatmeal Scrub + Mask is a good money-saving, back-up product in my skincare collection. A little goes a long way and I can see myself getting 1-2 years of use out of this tube (no joke, it's ginormous). I would definitely repurchase!</div>
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<b>Summary</b></div>
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<li>Packaging: 4/5 (hygienic; squeezable tube; product spurts out easily)</li>
<li>Smell: 3/5 (strong; lingers; more cocoa/food-like than perfumey)</li>
<li>Performance: 3.5/5 (decent scrub; hard to remove as a mask)</li>
<li>Value/Price: 5/5 (<$4 for huge 6 oz/170g tube)</li>
<li><b>Recommend? Yes </b>(ok for normal/dry/sensitive)</li>
<li><b>Repurchase? Yes </b></li>
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<br />Duckyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11163256257296903307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18919023.post-72892009692078917232015-08-28T20:32:00.001-07:002015-09-08T17:23:59.559-07:00Review: Josie Maran Argan Cleansing Oil (mini size)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR0bWa0rde9fmYdofWO5pxQZIUj26wqNQkqdcM46S9qXtbrvgbuBPgNUQUdEcATlujhmqi37rYpD18yz5nV5-IowjsSCODt_-H2-ZLXK4kPMcpmougOoR6jTJ3lEZzh9OEznjb/s1600/20150828_181334.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR0bWa0rde9fmYdofWO5pxQZIUj26wqNQkqdcM46S9qXtbrvgbuBPgNUQUdEcATlujhmqi37rYpD18yz5nV5-IowjsSCODt_-H2-ZLXK4kPMcpmougOoR6jTJ3lEZzh9OEznjb/s320/20150828_181334.jpg" width="178" /></a></div>
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I've been slowly reviewing various Josie Maran products ever since I was gifted a collection of her mini-sized skincare products (like the "<a href="http://duckymuffin.blogspot.com/2015/01/review-josie-maran-argan-infinity-cream.html">infinity cream</a>" and her famous <a href="http://duckymuffin.blogspot.com/2015/01/review-josie-maran-100-pure-argan-oil_6.html">pure argan oil</a>). Unfortunately, I haven't loved any of what I've tried because of bad smell, texture and/or price for performance. I've given away many items in the kit (a lip product, sunscreen & hand lotion) and have zero plans to review them because I couldn't make myself continue using them beyond once or twice. The last item I plan to review, her <a href="http://www.josiemarancosmetics.com/argan-cleansing-oil.html#.VeELPJfw0mA">Argan Cleansing Oil</a>, falls into that same "Fail" category for me.</div>
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<a name='more'></a>I'm a huge fan of double cleansing and use cleansing oil every day I wear BB cream/foundation (5-6 times a week). My current go-to is the Clinique version (reviewed <a href="http://duckymuffin.blogspot.com/2015/01/review-clinique-take-day-off-cleansing.html">here</a>) but I've used Etude House's Real Art line (reviewed <a href="http://duckymuffin.blogspot.com/2014/12/review-etude-house-real-art-cleansing.html">here</a>) as well as other samples of Asian cleansing oils so I've got a bit of experience with a variety of textures.<br />
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This Josie Maran version is the stickiest and heaviest type I've ever tried. I'm surprised at the rave reviews online because the only way I'd use this cleansing oil again was if I suddenly developed a yen for rubbing thick honey around my face. As yummy as that may sound, it's an incredible chore to massage around such a blubbery texture (and not one I can eat afterwards, either!). I seriously wouldn't be surprised if I created a few premature wrinkles from all the kneading. =(</div>
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I'm getting ahead of myself but really just needed to put all that out there first. To start at the beginning, this mini-sized 55 ml (1.9 oz) bottle has an annoying flip cap that barely dispenses product and the rigid plastic bottle is hard to squeeze. (The full-sized version appears to have a push-down spout so would likely be more pleasant to use.) The first time I tried this oil I assumed I was too stingy with the dispense and needed more product to create a smoother experience. Come the second time I used nearly double the amount of oil but my poor face still came out feeling like an abused ball of dough. </div>
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When I add water to most cleansing oils to start emulsifying/rinsing them off I expect a straightforward and easy process. This Josie Maran cleansing oil is stubbornly clingy and it feels like a battle to grind the water against my face and loosen its hold. I understand this oil is supposed to be for dryer skintypes that need
rich hydration during cleansing but the time-consuming massage process
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On top of all this, the actual performance was pretty disappointing. There was consistently significant make-up residue left on my toner-soaked cotton pad. (To test a cleansing oil I'll skip the post-oil foam cleanser step as an experiment but this 2nd step is actually a crucial part of double cleansing.) Maybe it was my fault for not massaging long enough but several minutes is my limit for working a cleanser into my face and my other oil cleansers outperform this one by miles.</div>
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The brightest spot in this stick mess was the smell, a candy-like odor that's a cousin of the Jolly Rancher family. The <a href="http://cosdna.com/eng/cosmetic_33d5182941.html">ingredient list</a> is also decent (small & nothing blatantly bad for acne). However, after 3 uses of this cleansing product I find even my frugal side cannot win out and I really can't bring myself to use it up. Maybe I can use it to oil up the squeaky hinge on my bathroom door?</div>
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<b>Summary</b></div>
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<li>Packaging: 2.5/5 (hygienic; hard to dispense mini version)</li>
<li>Smell: 4/5 (strong; candy-like; fades fast)</li>
<li>Performance: 1.5/5 (awful gooey texture; mediocre cleansing)</li>
<li>Value/Price: 1.5/5 (blah performance & $32 for 180 ml/6 oz!)</li>
<li><b>Recommend? No </b>(only for argan fanatics or dough-kneaders needing more practice)</li>
<li><b>Repurchase? No </b></li>
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Duckyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11163256257296903307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18919023.post-11444407829294955082015-08-14T20:14:00.000-07:002016-12-16T11:37:40.606-08:00Review: Etude House Sunprise Must Daily SPF 50+/PA+++<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiciOUBUnvGYY8ROECpxRadp4jR9qVN95E3QvahviiqA61_DezL8MH5Y6X8z8GovHaPqHla-3AuIXvMl2X8oRplplSZXDr-suwrTAkfsNOF-MC846S6ehUfI263SkzjA8a5H8HO/s1600/20150721_101317.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Etude House Sunprise Must Daily SPF 50+/PA+++" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiciOUBUnvGYY8ROECpxRadp4jR9qVN95E3QvahviiqA61_DezL8MH5Y6X8z8GovHaPqHla-3AuIXvMl2X8oRplplSZXDr-suwrTAkfsNOF-MC846S6ehUfI263SkzjA8a5H8HO/s320/20150721_101317.jpg" title="" width="236" /></a></div>
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Until I became an acne-prone adult I never consistently used sun protection. In my childhood photos my skin always appears toasty tan. =) However, once I started developing breakouts and inevitable hyperpigmentation I discovered the importance of UV-blockage and its role in decreasing melanin production. I still rely on actives to whiten my scars, but a daily sunscreen is now an important part of my skincare routine because every little bit helps when you've got stubborn breakouts/pigmentation. (The anti-aging aspect is also a plus but since I'm not too wrinkly yet I'm presently more focused on the skin lightening benefits. =)</div>
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My requirements for a sun product include decent SPF, minimal pale/white cast, easy application & absorption plus compatibility with other products that layer before & after it. I purchased <a href="http://www.etudehouse.com/index.php/skincare/suncare/sunprise-mustdailyspf50-pa.html">Etude House's Sunprise Must Daily SPF 50+/PA+++</a> without trying out samples because it was cheap, had a decent ingredient list and positive online reviews. However, I'm glad I took a chance on this "gel type sun lotion" because it has definitely delivered on all of my criteria!</div>
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<a name='more'></a>Etude House's Sunprise line also includes a more mattifying "All Proof" sunscreen for oily skin but I passed on it because it has more acne triggers according to CosDNA and I actually don't mind a dewy finish. This "Must Daily" version comes in a simple 50g/1.76 oz squeeze tube with a secure screw on cap. There's a light perfume scent (not my favorite) but it's not a deal-breaker. Unfortunately it took a few messy tries to realize I barely need to press down for a load of product to stream out. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW59OXh1NI2LkrelkR1Gwlm_kogHWhZzRliU6RqP217gJo4C4w7F6LYuN9zyqbapz1OSmamrmbD5jVODp_8t5Qv3o1-V8gRbtjLpidQYlfRypr-L5hIs_nDLkVUmrf9YaGlf9F/s1600/20150731_185019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Etude House Sunprise Must Daily SPF 50+/PA+++" border="0" height="169" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW59OXh1NI2LkrelkR1Gwlm_kogHWhZzRliU6RqP217gJo4C4w7F6LYuN9zyqbapz1OSmamrmbD5jVODp_8t5Qv3o1-V8gRbtjLpidQYlfRypr-L5hIs_nDLkVUmrf9YaGlf9F/s320/20150731_185019.jpg" title="" width="320" /></a></div>
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This sunscreen definitely has a lighter "lotion" texture that's a nice change from thick and pasty sunblocks. Apologies for the poor picture quality above, but if you look closely there's also a yellow fluid/oil that starts separating from the white when it sits long enough on the skin. A few gentle swipes effectively spreads it around into a watery or drop-like texture.<br />
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The <a href="http://cosdna.com/eng/cosmetic_4261143351.html">ingredients</a> explain the fluid texture (alcohol is number 5 in the list). When I weigh my alcohol sensitivity against my desire for a fast-absorbing product & pleasing texture I tend to err on the side of caution. In this case, though, I figured the toner, essence and moisturizer I've already layered on my face should be a good enough barrier to any potential drying/irritating properties. I'm glad to say after 2.5 months of daily use I don't feel extra sensitivity or dryness on my face so my theory seems to be working out! <br />
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I love how this product is fast-absorbing without making my skincare layers ball up (a problem with many sunscreens). Adding my BB cream over this sun lotion also works very well (I see no additional paleness or dilution of coverage in my foundation). The only caveat is that a few minutes of absorption is necessary or I get an extra dewy finish. I'm too lazy to use powder most days but if I do this becomes a non-issue. I have to add that my BB creams tend to be very hydrating types for dryer skin (Missha Perfect Cover or Signature Real Complete and The Face Shop Power Perfection are examples) so I'm not quite sure how this sun product would react with matte BB creams for oilier skin. At any rate I'm happy I can apply my BB cream over this sunscreen without the hassle of "eraser peel-ies" sloughing off!<br />
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<b>Summary</b><br />
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<li>Packaging: 4/5 (hygienic; squeezable but easily spurts too much)</li>
<li>Smell: 3/5 (perfume-like but mild; fades fast)</li>
<li>Performance: 4/5 (fast absorbing; compatible with others; a bit dewy)</li>
<li>Value/Price: 5/5 (spent $6+shipping @Roseroseshop; ~$8 on eBay)</li>
<li><b>Recommend? Yes </b>(for dry/normal types)</li>
<li><b>Repurchase? Sure! </b></li>
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<br />Duckyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11163256257296903307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18919023.post-26462332989412072082015-07-07T21:25:00.000-07:002015-09-08T17:14:53.595-07:00Review: Missha Time Revolution The First Treatment Essence Intensive <br />
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After trying out snail filtrate & bee venom in my skincare routine I had no reservations about giving fermented products a go. It was hardly intimidating given the weird things I've slapped onto my face in hopes of achieving healthier skin. I used up several foil packet samples of Missha's Time Revolution The First Treatment Essence without any bad reactions and probably would've bought this original formulation had RoseRoseShop not had a sale on the newer version, The First Treatment Essence Intensive. (So this review isn't a comparison between the two versions [sorry!] but only my impressions of the newer formula.)</div>
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Missha is a very popular Korean company for both skincare and cosmetics. The first Asian beauty product I ever tried out, a BB cream, was created by Missha and to this day I still use their makeup faithfully. Before joining the fermented club I'd never tried their skincare items beyond samples but I did regularly see many positive reviews online. Since I didn't want to drop big $$ on the most well-known yeast product (SK-II Facial Treatment Essence), I opted for Missha's more affordable dupe. The Time Revolution line also has serums, ampoules, toners, etc but I was only interested in the popular essence.</div>
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<a name='more'></a>Even though frosted glass bottles are elegant, I find them impractical since they're heavy, drive up shipping costs and I'm scared of their breaking by accident. This essence comes in a clear-ish plastic bottle with a secure screw-on lid and I like that I can see the amount of product left in case I need to re-order in a timely way. The small opening is unfortunately awkward at dispensing the desired volume. It spurts out quickly and repeatedly stops so I've actually transferred a lot to a glass bottle with dropper and replenish as needed from the original container. This is possible because the essence is surprisingly thin, like water, which resembles a toner more than a serum. However, I still use my Benton snail essence afterwards so I'm fine with a more slippery and fast-absorbing texture. The smell of this product is a light "yeast-y" one that fades quickly. <br />
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The <a href="http://cosdna.com/eng/cosmetic_d41f184019.html">ingredients</a> have only a "1" rating from Butylene Glycol as a potential acne irritant and everything else is "0," including the active ingredient of 80% Fermented Yeast Extract. Missha markets this essence for "moisturizing, firming and balancing" as well as "wrinkle repairing, improving skin tone, etc," a lengthy list of aims but "balancing sebum level" is really the one I hoped to benefit from the most. Literally everything I put on my face is evaluated for its acne-fighting abilities, even if that's not its sole purpose. As someone who suffers chronic hormonal/cystic acne I'm always hyper aware of whether a product can decrease my breakouts. This priority is sometimes different from other skincare bloggers that have better skin than mine so I definitely want to point out products I review often live up to their claims but I won't repurchase because I'm looking for something that can stave off my acne. In the case of this Missha essence I really hoped that by boosting my skin's moisture barrier more I'd have less breakouts.<br />
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I used this product for 3 months at least twice per day, after cleansing and applying BHA or AHA. If I went by lightest to thickest texture in layering my skincare then I should apply this watery essence first (the instructions say to do this). However, I want my BHA and AHA items to have first dibs on my cleansed skin since they're my main weapons in my fight against breakouts. So I tend to apply BHA/AHA --> Missha Essence --> Benton Snail Essence --> Moisturizer, etc. in the mornings & early evening after make-up removal. I'd skip it for my bedtime routine because I also use a Vitamin C serum and don't want it's ascorbic acid to interact with the niacinamide in this essence (in case of flushing). Plus, I'm usually tired and trying to plop into bed asap so would rather skip an extra layer if possible.<br />
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Application is easy because I dispense a few drops onto my palm and dab all over my face (I don't like cotton pads because they're rough and waste product). Afterwards my skin feels moist without being sticky & a few minutes is sufficient for me to feel ready for my next essence layer. I hate impatiently waiting for slow absorbing serums/lotions so this is a great plus! <br />
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I think this essence doesn't need the word "Intensive" in the name because I found it to be very gentle and soothing. It never caused redness, burning or itching and had no issues interacting with other skincare products (congealing or sloughing into balls, etc). Immediately after applying I could tell my skin was plumper & softer and my fine lines were temporarily less visible. It didn't really help reduce redness if I happened to overdo my AHAs and needed help with that, but I think I can detect a subtle improvement in the redness of my cheeks over the last few months. <br />
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Now the important question.... will I repurchase? Honestly, I'm still unsure! It's summer now and I don't worry too much about dry skin so I find this essence's hydrating properties are a nice but not must-have addition to my skincare routine. When I've accidentally skipped it I don't feel as if my face is suddenly more dry, dull or red. Maybe I need more time after quitting this product to see a significant change and detect how much this essence was really helping me out... and maybe not. Perhaps I need to wait until winter when my skin naturally becomes dryer to really feel its benefits... or not!<br />
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At the end of the day, I have to go back to my priority: reducing my acne. Since my breakouts have not increased or decreased in frequency after 3 months of using this essence (bleh), I have to conclude it doesn't help my particular type of troubled skin. I did see some positive online reviews for the original formula where folks mentioned their breakouts dramatically improved after using it, but I guess I'm not a part of that lucky group. Yeast is not the magical acne-fighting ingredient I've been searching for. :-/<br />
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<b>Summary</b></div>
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<li>Packaging: 3/5 (hygienic; sturdy; bad volume control)</li>
<li>Smell: 4/5 (weird but very mild & fades fast)</li>
<li>Performance: 3.5/5 (gently hydrating, fast absorbing)</li>
<li>Value/Price: 4/5 (on sale -130ml for $15 +shipping at time of purchase)</li>
<li><b>Recommend? Maybe </b>(for dry/normal types without acne)</li>
<li><b>Repurchase? Maybe </b>(if I need more hydration during winter)</li>
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Duckyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11163256257296903307noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18919023.post-4520663949590423872015-06-28T12:36:00.002-07:002015-09-08T17:25:14.887-07:00Review: Silk Naturals 8% AHA Toner<div style="text-align: center;">
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After cleansing my face I usually reach for my BHA/AHA products, but lately I've been wondering whether applying a toner first would increase their efficiency. I've tried pretty decent ones before but have slacked lately because I'm lazy to apply in the morning when I'm rushing to get out of the house. Good toners remove residue, bring down skin pH (especially important if
using alkaline cleansers) and prep it for the next product to better
absorb. I personally don't worry much about leftover make-up or dirt after cleansing because I double cleanse really well and my BHA/AHA products are already pH-appropriate (I have my own pH strips for testing). However, I'm <i>always </i>looking for an edge over my hormonal adult acne and figured why not give it a shot?<br />
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<a href="http://www.silknaturals.com/store/index.php/8-aha-toner.html">Silk Naturals 8% AHA Toner</a> has some pretty ecstatic positive reviews out there and since it's AHA ingredient is lactic acid (a "gentler" one) I figured it may be a good addition to my skincare lineup.<br />
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<a name='more'></a>I bought this <a href="http://silknaturals.com/">Silk Naturals</a> product from the company website and they also generously included 2 free eye shadow samples, a nice surprise. The toner came in a pretty blue plastic bottle with a no-frills label. I assume the dark color helps the product remain fresh and it's a nice change from the brown glass bottles that usually crowd my skincare collection. The screw on cap is secure and has a lip that flips up to dispense the liquid. If I'm using the toner with a cotton pad then I unscrew the entire cap, flip over & back quickly and almost always get the right volume. Whenever I'm dispensing into my palm and then dabbing onto my face I will use the flip lid instead. I prefer droppers for better control but as long as I overturn the bottle quickly without squeezing I don't dispense too much. In the beginning I'd add a squeeze and that was a mistake because way too much toner would flow out and it was such a waste!<br />
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The clear liquid has the same texture as water with a slightly "yeast-y" smell. It's not a great odor (kind of herbal or rancid) but not overly strong and fades fast. With only <a href="http://cosdna.com/eng/cosmetic_4bea186119.html">6 ingredients</a> this toner has zero acne triggers according to CosDNA. I already use Mizon's AHA Serum (reviewed <a href="http://duckymuffin.blogspot.com/2015/04/review-mizon-aha-8-peeling-serum.html">here</a>) once a day but this Silk Naturals toner contains lactic acid instead of glycolic so I figured it wouldn't be overkill. As a larger molecule AHA it's supposedly milder because it doesn't penetrate skin as deeply and I purposely applied this toner with only one BHA or one other AHA product at a time, never all 3 together. (For example, AM: toner+BHA, PM: toner+AHA, etc)<br />
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I used the Silk Naturals AHA toner for 6 weeks at least 2x times a day (post morning/night cleanse and/or after make-up removal in late afternoon) and have run through 2/3 of the 4 oz bottle. I did accidentally spill some at one point, but I estimate the bottle would last 2-3 months for normal use.<br />
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In the beginning I always felt a burning/tingling after application and I assumed it was because I was being too rough with the cotton pad, but after I switched to dabbing the toner on I'd still get similar results. I realized I could only use it in small amounts or my face would become very red/hot for 20-30 min. Similarly, if I didn't wait at least 5-10 min before applying my Mizon AHA Serum afterwards my face would get lobster red and uncomfortable. Strangely enough, I'm able to immediately use my Paulas' Choice BHA (reviewed <a href="http://duckymuffin.blogspot.com/2015/01/review-paulas-choice-skin-perfecting-2.html">here</a>) with no red consequences so I guess it's the AHA combination that's doing it. I've heard folks comment on how burning means a product is working, but I'm always scared I'm damaging my acne-prone skin, especially since I don't ever get burning from BHA, another powerful exfoliant, and still have good results from it. <br />
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<b>As for performance....</b><br />
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I'm sad to say I get the same amount of acne as before on my lower cheeks/chin and can't report better skin texture or less whiteheads, etc, either. It may be possible this product needs longer to work its magic, but I'm going to give up for now because it adds more time to my skincare routine when I'm rushing to leave the house or wanting to go to bed and it doesn't yield the positive results I want. (With my other BHA/AHA products I saw results within a few weeks!) Plus, I have to be too vigilant about the amount I use, how I apply it & whatever comes afterwards in order to avoid the burning redness so I'm not too happy about that. It's a bit of a mystery to me because low pH products don't tend to burn me so I'm not sure why I react to this one. The website says this AHA toner is pH 3.5 but I wonder if it's actually lower. My pH strips are very cheap (from eBay :) and not the most accurate, so maybe someone out there can test it and let me know. Perhaps the 8% concentration is also too much for me? Anyway, I won't be repurchasing this toner.<br />
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<b>Summary</b></div>
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<li>Packaging: 4/5 (hygienic; sturdy; okay volume control)</li>
<li>Smell: 3/5 (not pleasant but fades fast)</li>
<li>Performance: 2/5 (burning means it's doing something, right?)</li>
<li>Value/Price: 3.5/5 ($9 + shipping for 4 oz from <a href="http://www.silknaturals.com/store/index.php/8-aha-toner.html">Silk Naturals</a>)</li>
<li><b>Recommend? Ehh (</b>only for non-sensitive skin)</li>
<li><b>Repurchase? No </b></li>
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Duckyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11163256257296903307noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18919023.post-19551137947798293152015-06-16T18:25:00.001-07:002015-09-08T17:32:31.694-07:00Review: BEAUSKIN Shea Butter Hand Cream - Jasmine<div style="text-align: center;">
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My interest in hand creams first came about a few years ago because my work involves a whole lot of hand-washing and, therefore, moisturizing. At present, though, I think I'm just a hand cream addict =P It's so easy for me to justify spending a few extra dollars on nice lotions/creams because they're fun items I can easily tote around. They boost my mood with their delicious scents and envelop me in their fragrance, all while functioning as a protective emollient for my chapped hands. I can easily share them with my friends and start conversations about skincare & interesting ingredients. There's a never-ending assortment to try out and I wouldn't have it any other way!</div>
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Whenever I create online hauls of new skincare or beauty items I frequently add in a new hand cream I haven't tried. Thankfully, I'm always able to find them on sale or at least at very low cost through the dependable RoseRoseShop. My latest product for dry hands I've been using is <a href="http://www.roseroseshop.com/en/sale-50/1860038--beauskin-shea-butter-hand-cream-100ml-nojasmine.html">BEAUSKIN Jasmine Shea Butter Hand Cream</a>, also available in Rosemary flavor.</div>
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<a name='more'></a>I've viewed jasmine as a staple of Asian teas since childhood but never truly came to enjoy it until I moved to a college town with a milk tea shop on every corner. My go-to boba drink was always jasmine green milk tea but these days I've cut diary from my diet so it seemed natural to get my jasmine fix via skincare. =P<br />
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I don't own any other BEAUSKIN products and really don't know too much about this brand except that it's Korean and capitalized haha. I've seen some of their sun cream products and masks but have never tried them out. To be honest, I probably wouldn't have picked this item up if it weren't for the jasmine scent and cheapness (under $3 for 100ml) on RoseRoseShop.</div>
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This hand cream is housed in a squeezable tube with a shiny metallic finish. It comes in a dark brown cardboard box (not pictured) with a jasmine picture and understated labeling. The entire feel of the packaging/design is straightforward, of good quality and elegant. When dispensing the product it's easy to control the flow and volume that comes out. </div>
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The creamy white texture has a medium consistency and spreads around quite easily. When I first squirt out a bit I'm hit with a lovely jasmine aroma but after working the product into my hands I find it's not as natural-smelling and reminds me more of perfume. I can't tell if this effect comes from my nose quickly getting used to the scent, but my mom agrees with me this is a strongly flavored hand cream and probably best in moderation if you don't want to overwhelm others' noses. Jasmine seems to be a universally appreciated scent but I personally wouldn't apply this hand cream at work or in close quarters with folks that can't get away from the strong fragrance out of courtesy.</div>
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I love how shea butter is included in the ingredients but it quickly absorbs without a greasy feeling or sheen added to my hands. I couldn't find a list of the ingredients on CosDNA so here's a screenshot of the tube packaging (please forgive the quality).<br />
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<u>Update</u>: I created an account and uploaded the ingredients <a href="http://www.cosdna.com/eng/cosmetic_79bf193789.html">here</a>.</div>
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Many folks normally avoid alcohol, mineral oil, parabens, etc. in their skincare but I'm not too worried when they belong to a topical hand cream that won't be going near my acne-prone face. I've also previously <a href="http://duckymuffin.blogspot.com/2014/12/review-cerave-foaming-facial-cleanser.html">posted</a> about how I don't go out of my way to avoid parabens and the reasons behind this.<br />
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<b>Performance:</b><br />
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Unfortunately, after ~20 minutes of application I can feel my skin tightening again and needing an additional application of this hand cream. Since my hands run on the very dry side, I'm not too surprised. It usually has to be a pretty heavy product to keep them hydrated for much longer but then those are uncomfortably greasy and leave marks on things I handle. Given the need for a balance between hydration and comfortable application I'd say this hand cream is best for folks with normal skin but not so much the frequent hand-washers. However, as mentioned previously, I'd only use this strong-smelling product at home or on weekends when I'm not forced to continuously wash my hands throughout the day, so I don't feel I wasted my money here.<br />
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Would I repurchase? Probably not... if I want a perfume I could buy one separately because jasmine is a popular and widely available scent, especially in Asian markets. I also have more effective hand creams and the large size of this one (100 ml) makes for a less portable hand cream than I'd like. There's an available 30 ml size on the <a href="http://www.beauskin.kr/">BEAUSKIN</a> website and a quick glance at their available products shows it to be a modest brand with only a small collection of make-up & skincare. I'd be open to trying out more of their products in the future, but probably not the other hand creams in this line.<br />
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<b>Summary</b></div>
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<li>Packaging: 5/5 (hygienic; easy to control flow; opaque)</li>
<li>Smell: 3/5 (very strong; need to LOVE jasmine!)</li>
<li>Performance: 3/5 (ok moisture; good absorption; not long-lasting)</li>
<li>Value/Price: 5/5 ($2.71 +shipping for 100ml <a href="http://www.roseroseshop.com/beauskin-shea-butter-hand-cream-100ml.html">here</a>)</li>
<li><b>Recommend? Maybe </b>(for normal skintype & jasmine-lovers)</li>
<li><b>Repurchase? No</b> </li>
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Duckyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11163256257296903307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18919023.post-55773015567226799862015-06-14T20:59:00.001-07:002015-07-21T11:11:43.253-07:00Review: Secret Key Berry Milk Hand Cream<br />
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Earlier this year I had an easy time finding excuses to slather my hands in Secret Key's Milk Whipping Hand Cream (reviewed <a href="http://duckymuffin.blogspot.com/2015/01/review-secret-key-milk-whipping-hand.html">here</a>). I shared my fun experience in an earlier blog post and it's clear other folks secretly enjoy donkey milk lotion, too, because it's now one of my most viewed posts! =P</div>
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I recently bought a different version, <a href="http://www.roseroseshop.com/en/sale-50/290080--secret-key-berry-milk-hand-cream-60ml.html">Secret Key's Berry Milk Hand Cream</a>, which is pretty much identical in volume, ingredients, texture & performance. The only difference is the flavor from 3 different berries and the red tube design instead of the baby blue.</div>
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<a name='more'></a>This is a short review since it's mainly the fragrance that I want to comment on. If you're interested in reading my previous post about the original version and don't mind a lot of gushing about donkey milk, click <a href="http://duckymuffin.blogspot.com/2015/01/review-secret-key-milk-whipping-hand.html">here</a>!</div>
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I'm actually surprised by how light the scent of this Berry Milk is compared to the baby powder scent of the original, especially since this one has 3 different berry flavors (raspberry, blueberry, blackberry). The first time I applied it I saw the same white creamy texture of the original but could barely sniff out the fruity odor. After several more layers of application I was able to detect it, but even real fruit has more of an aroma than this hand cream. It's not a bad thing, especially for those sensitive to strong perfumes, but I was hoping for a bit more oomph in this department.</div>
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The cream is still easy to apply, amazingly fast-absorbing and pretty good at hydration. Hyaluronic acid and collagen are the star ingredients found in donkey milk and make for another dependable product. I do need to reapply after about an hour, but my hands are super dry from work-related hand-washing habits so they're unusually demanding for moisture.</div>
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I still like the original Milk Whipping Hand Cream better, but mainly for the scent and not because this Berry version is deficient. Anyway, I love carrying hand creams around in my totes/bags and now I have one more to help introduce donkey milk into everyday conversation!</div>
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<b>Summary</b></div>
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<li>Packaging: 4/5 (hygienic; easy to control flow; opaque)</li>
<li>Smell: 4/5 (lightly fruity; fades quickly)</li>
<li>Performance: 4/5 (decent moisture; <i>fast</i> absorption)</li>
<li>Value/Price: 5/5 ($1.20 +shipping for 60ml <a href="http://www.roseroseshop.com/en/sale-50/290080--secret-key-berry-milk-hand-cream-60ml.html">here</a>.. super cheap!)</li>
<li><b>Recommend? Yes</b> (we all need more donkey milk in our lives =)</li>
<li><b>Repurchase? Yes</b> </li>
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Duckyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11163256257296903307noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18919023.post-24886159609005706532015-05-12T17:56:00.003-07:002015-09-15T09:40:47.013-07:00Review: Mizon Acence AC Care Solution Mark-X Blemish After Cream<br />
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Another Mizon product I got in a recent RoseRoseShop haul included this little item: the Acence AC Care Solution Mark-X Blemish After Cream. The Acence line addresses acne concerns (I'm guessing "AC" = Acne Control") and this cream is designed to be used after a spot has erupted to promote healing.</div>
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I like how the product has its main ingredient, 12% propolis, very clearly labelled because so many brands list their ingredients but not the actual concentration. Propolis is a bee-produced resin that's been used historically for its anti-bacterial/viral/fungal/inflammatory properties. I personally take propolis supplements every day to keep my immune system running and hay fever at bay. This is the first skincare product I've ever used with propolis as the main active ingredient and I'm pretty impressed.</div>
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The ingredients <a href="http://cosdna.com/eng/cosmetic_3050164581.html">list</a> might be alarming at first because it includes sulfur, which rates a 3/5 as an acne trigger on CosDNA & a 4/5 irritant, but I've found this cream to be strangely hydrating rather than drying/irritating (more on that later). </div>
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The plastic tube is opaque with a screw-on cap and is highly squeezable, perfect for getting all the precious cream out. I don't love how there's a slight groove surrounding the end where product dispenses because the cream collects there and makes me feel the area could become less sanitary over time as my finger swipes around there repeatedly. (I make an effort to clean it with tissue every so often so that it doesn't accumulate.)</div>
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I have to try hard to detect the sulfur odor because the majority of what I smell from this paste-like cream is sweet. The lemon extract does a great job disguising the bad fragrances and I enjoy using it every day. I also find it surprisingly easy to spread this yellow-white cream around my face, even over layered products, without it balling up or sliding everywhere, unable to absorb. The quick absorption means I can incorporate it at multiple possible steps of my skincare routine. I generally apply skincare items from thinnest to thickest texture but this acne cream mixes well wherever I insert it into my routine.</div>
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As to performance, I had my doubts in the beginning but now, after 3 months of almost daily usage, I've found the best way to use this cream for my skin. Instead of applying over newly burgeoning spots, it's most effective on the erupted ones (the type I'd slap a hydrocolloid patch onto overnight and drain). This is marketed as an "After Cream" for a reason but I couldn't help trying it out on new breakouts just to see if there would be an effect. My conclusion: If there is any effect on newly forming pimples, it's only for small ones and doesn't impede the larger ones at all. The cream clearly shines best on broken skin.<br />
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Overnight it can reduce the painfulness of an erupted cystic spot without drying it out, despite the sulfur ingredient. In fact, it almost feels like a moisturizing cream when I first apply it to my face, melting instantly as I barely rub it in. The height of the pimple seems to level out much quicker with each night I use this product and the resulting hyperpigmentation fades significantly faster. I have extremely stubborn dark spots that usually require months to fade completely so I am always up for using any whitening products that can promote an even complexion. This is not a miracle cream that eradicates the darker pigmented aftermath of breakouts, but it's easier to hide the healing acne with concealer/make-up because they're less 3-D and lighter in shade faster than usual. I may not have perfect skin, but I can sure fake it more easily now!</div>
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My smallest breakouts (~2-3 mm large) can smooth out within a night or two of using this product (as opposed to a week without any help). On my forehead I've some older breakouts that are still obviously dark, though healed, and some newer ones that are already much lighter in comparison simply because I added this cream to my nightly routine. My larger blemishes (<u>></u>5 mm) are unfortunately more stubborn and last long enough I can't easily compare/quantify the amount of improvement I'm getting. (For example, taking 4 months to fade vs 3 months isn't immediately obvious, right?) However, the clear success with the smaller breakouts mean I still faithfully apply it to the larger spots whenever I can remember because I'm probably still receiving benefit, even if it isn't as dramatic.</div>
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I usually apply this cream after a light moisturizer but before I apply my final heaviest one. I can also place a hydrocolloidal patch over it whenever necessary and the patch performs just as well without interference from this cream. A bit goes a long way and after 3 months of use I estimate I have about 25% left over. All in all I'm glad I took a chance on this product and will definitely be repurchasing it!<br />
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<b>Summary</b></div>
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<li>Packaging: 4/5 (squeezable tube; so-so opening)</li>
<li>Smell: 4/5 (lovely lemon scent; can't really make out the sulfur!)</li>
<li>Performance: 4/5 (flattens/lightens small broken blemishes; not drying)</li>
<li>Value/Price: 5/5 ($5-6 + shipping/tracking fee for 30ml on <a href="http://www.roseroseshop.com/en/free-shipping/260074-MIZON.html">Roseroseshop</a>)</li>
<li><b>Recommend? Yes (</b>for erupted/small spots, not so much new/large ones)</li>
<li><b>Repurchase? Yes (already did!) </b></li>
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Duckyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11163256257296903307noreply@blogger.com0