Showing posts with label Skincare. Show all posts

ECO YOUR SKIN Moisture Wall Surge Complex

lavlilacs ECOYOURSKIN Moisture Wall Surge Complex Review

ECO YOUR SKIN is a bold one. It is a hefty promise for a brand to not only say their a moisturizer could provide a "moisture wall barrier" but that it could last for 48 hours. While that isn't the tagline that got me to try the Moisture Wall Surge Complex, I can certainly see where they are coming from with that claim after using it myself.

lavlilacs ECOYOURSKIN Moisture Wall Surge Complex packaging

ECOYOURSKIN's description:

Moisture Wall Surge Complex, so-called "Water-Wall Cream", will form a moisturized skin wall to your skin layer for the next 48 hours. This effect improves thin and sensitive skin and heals skin damaged by UV rays.

Directions
After cleansing, use toner to moisturize your skin, then softly apply an appropriate amount of Moisture Wall Surge Complex to the face and neck except the eye area.

Ingredients
AQUA,BUTYLENE GLYCOL,PEG/PPG-17/6 COPOLYMER,GLYCERIN,1,2-HEXANEDIOL,BETAINE,PEG-240/HDI COPOLYMER BIS-DECYLTETRADECETH -20 ETHER, SODIUM HYALURONATE, SODIUM PCA,ALOE BARBADENSIS LEAF EXTRACT,PERSEA GRATISSIMA(AVOCADO) FRUIT EXTRACT,CORNUS OFFICINALIS FRUIT EXTRACT, ALOE BARBADENSIS LEAF JUICE,ACRYLATES/C10-30 ALKYL ACRYLATE CROSSPOLYMER,TRIETHANOLAMINE,CAPRYLYL GLYCOL,ALLANTOIN,ALOE BARBADENSIS LEAF POWDER,ETHYLHEXYLGLYCERIN,DIPOTASSIUM GLYCYRRHIZATE,PENTYLENE GLYCOL,ASPALATHUS LINEARIS EXTRACT,GLYCYRRHIZA GLABRA (LICORICE) ROOT EXTRACT, FRAGRANCE,CI 14700,CHLOROPHYLLIN-COPPER COMPLEX,CARAMEL

Cream 50 ml

ECOYOURSKIN (Korean retail): ₩72,000
Peach & Lily: USD $80.00


lavlilacs ECOYOURSKIN Moisture Wall Surge Complex

lavlilacs ECOYOURSKIN Moisture Wall Surge Complex

lavlilacs ECOYOURSKIN Moisture Wall Surge Complex

Packaging

A thick glass jar with a sturdy plastic screw-on lid. New boxes come sealed with a packaging label. The inside comes with an inner plastic lid for extra security, yet I don't keep it on once opened for quick access. The body of the bottle isn't opaque; it isn't a con here since I could still see how much product remains inside. I am also not too bothered by the underside/lip where the cap has its screw threads only because of the moisturizer's texture (it likes to stick to itself more than the those harder to reach sides).

lavlilacs ECOYOURSKIN Moisture Wall Surge Complex

lavlilacs ECOYOURSKIN Moisture Wall Surge Complex

Color, Texture, Finish, & Scent

The gel has clear coral hue and a strong, fresh fruity plus aloe-y scent. It is weirdly lightweight yet thick at the same time because of its sticky and stretchy consistency. Rather than feeling watery like gel formulations tend to act when blended in, the Moisture Wall Surge Complex has almost a balmy, tacky sensation. Once the skin soaks the moisturizer in it leaves a generally satin finish and some remaining tackiness.

How I Apply

Scoop out a little with a spatula or my fingertip. Gently rub the product between my palms to create a thin layer. Press the moisturizer into my skin. Once I have generally covered my face I quickly and constantly pat all over to help the gel sink in better and lessen the stickiness.

Thoughts & Recommendations

I can't say I don't like it. I will say it isn't my favorite.

Moisture Wall Surge Complex does indeed create a great moisture barrier on the skin. I think it is mainly from its very sticky texture that it is able to adhere and stay so well. Perhaps it could last for 48 hours, but I do double cleanse my face at night and splash with water in the morning so it would effectively disturb, if not remove, said barrier before 24 hours even hits.

I love that I never show any dry patches or cakey makeup while using this moisturizer. It fairs well even when I wear the most matte of sunscreens, concealers, and powders. My skin never broke out from it or felt congested at all.

I just hate the tacky feeling left behind after application. Of course, if I sit long enough that finish becomes very minimal but I like to do my skincare routine and hop into bed; sticky skin, hair strands, pillowcases, and duvets don't mix well. Applying something non-sticky afterward also helps but for those that want minimal steps, this isn't the product to go to.

A repurchase from me, at full retail price, would be next to impossible. $80 is quite a lot for a solely hydrating product with no other actives. Granted, it does what it says well. Despite the heavy discount during the Peach & Lily sample sale, I did not repurchase the moisturizer mainly because I did not enjoy the user experience. Perhaps those with much drier skin would like this more? Those with sensitive skin may not enjoy the formulation's tug and tack nor the fragrance. Oily skin would probably enjoy something with a more barely-there feel.

ECO YOUR SKIN SKIN LAB L Layering Essence Ringer Drip - Whitening and Oily

lavlilacs Eco Your Skin Layering Essence Ringer Drip - Whitening and Oily Review

Supposedly the estheticians treat you at an ECO YOUR SKIN or SKIN LAB L session, they whip out an entire bag of the Layering Essence Ringer Drip and apply it via an airbrush. How the skin can handle 120 ml of essence at once boggles my mind. Perhaps that kind of marketing worked on me because I wanted to try the product myself.

lavlilacs Eco Your Skin Layering Essence Ringer Drip - Whitening and Oily packaging

ECOYOURSKIN's description:

Whitening
Highly concentrated liquid water that instantly restores skin condition. A facial ringer drip that dulls dark spots and freckles and whitens skin tone.

Oily
Highly concentrated liquid water that instantly restores skin condition. A facial ringer drip that effectively controls sebaceous secretion and keeps skin moist.

Directions
Put it in an exclusive bottle for convenient use. After cleansing, take an appropriate amount on a cosmetic cotton or the hand. From inside to the outside of the face, spread out along the skin texture and let it absorb. When blended with our Vitamin Shots products, it is much more effective.

Ingredients
Whitening
WATER, GLYCERIN, BUTYLENE GLYCOL, NIACINAMIDE, PEG-60 HYDROGENATED CASTOR OIL, 1,2-HEXANEDIOL, SODIUM HYALURONATE, ORYZA SATIVA (RICE) BRAN WATER, ASPERGILLUS/RICE FERMENT EXTRACT, ORYZA SATIVA (RICE) BRAN EXTRACT, MAGNOLIA BIONDII BARK EXTRACT, SALIX ALBA (WILLOW) BARK EXTRACT, CAMELLIA SINENSIS LEAF EXTRACT, CITRUS GRANDIS (GRAPEFRUIT) FRUIT EXTRACT, PROPOLIS EXTRACT, CHAMOMILIA RECUTITA (MATRICARIA) FLOWER/LEAF EXTRACT, THUJOPSIS DOLABRATA BRANCH EXTRACT, HYDROLYZED COLLAGEN, ALLANTOIN, STYRENE/VP COPOLYMER, CAPRYLYL GLYCOL, XANTHAN GUM, DIPOTASSIUM GLYCYRRHIZATE, ARBUTIN, FRAGRANCE

Oily
WATER,GLYCERIN,PEG-40 HYDROGENATED CASTOR OIL,BETAINE,1,2-HEXANEDIOL,MELALEUCA ALTERNIFOLIA (TEA TREE) EXTRACT,HAMAMELIS VIRGINIANA (WITCH HAZEL) EXTRACT,SODIUM HYALURONATE,CAPRYLYL GLYCOL,BUTYLENE GLYCOL,CENTELLA ASIA TICA EXTRACT,GLYCYRRHIZA GLABRA (LICORICE) ROOT EXTRACT,ARTEMISIA VULGARIS EXTRACT,VACCINUM ANGUSTIFOLIUM (BLUEBERRY) FRUIT EXTRACT,GINKGO BILOBA LEAF EXTRACT,ROSA CANINA FRUIT OIL,CHAMAECYPARIS OBTUSA WATER,BETA-GLUCAN,DRYOPTERIS CRASSIRHIZOMA EXTRACT,ALOE BARBADENSIS LEAF POWDER,CAMELLIA SINENSIS LEAF EXTRACT,PORTULACA OLERACEA EXTRACT,ALLANTOIN,DIPOTASSIUM GLYCYRRHIZATE,FRAGRANCE,CI 42090,CI 19140,CI 14700

Essence 120 ml

ECOYOURSKIN / Ski (Korean retail): ₩55,000
Peach & Lily: USD $50.00

lavlilacs Eco Your Skin Layering Essence Ringer Drip - Whitening and Oily packaging pouch to bottle

Packaging

The essence comes in a heat sealed plastic pouch. Luckily it does come with a plastic bottle with a press-top cap for easy dispensing. I decided to cut off the smallest of corners to make the transferring job easier but I still inevitably lost a bit of the product along the way. While the idea is novel and time it takes to fill the bottle short, it does require some extra work before use.

The bottle type gets the job done but it definitely isn't my favorite. Pressing the cap tends to create a back splash. The stream of product that comes out also gets messy unless you have a cotton to catch everything.

lavlilacs Eco Your Skin Layering Essence Ringer Drip - Whitening and Oily swatch

Color, Texture, Finish, & Scent

The liquid is is not colorless or orderless, instead it varies depending on the skin concern ("flavor") the pouch says it will target. Whitening is cloudy white in color and has a perfume-y floral scent. Oily is green-tinged in color and has a witch hazel/herb-y scent. Even though neither have alcohol in its formulation, both still give a similar effect in the sense that it feels a little cooling and refreshing after wiping.

Even though it looks and acts like water, the essence itself does leave a tacky finish until it is completely absorbed into the skin (and maybe evaporated into the air). My skin is left feeling a little more hydrating and softer than if I hadn't use it.

How I Apply

Saturate a cotton with the essence. Wipe my face and neck.

Thoughts & Recommendations

I don't quite like the Layer Essence Ringer Drip for what it is labeled as.

The scents for Whitening and Oily are way too strong for me to use in multiple layers as one typical would with essence-type products; both remind me of a cross between very strong perfume and rubbing alcohol. The slight tackiness of the formulations also doesn't encourage me to use in a patting manner.

Knowing the retail price per pouch of "essence" liquid makes me not want to waste any by pouring it onto a cotton to wipe my face with. My only justification is I purchased these at a steep discount ($10 versus $50) during the Peach & Lily sale. I could, more easily, turn a blind eye in order to quickly use the product up.

Since I use so little product each application, I don't think I am a good representation of how both worth for helping whitening or oily skin. Both act relatively the same as a toner and did well to remove rogue makeup and dirt. Neither made my skin sensitive or excessively matte and dry. Had I not looked at the ingredients list afterward, I would have thought the only differences were in color and smell.

I think it is very telling that I did not repurchase these despite seeing them again this year at the Peach & Lily sale. Not that the Layering Essence Ringer Drip are bad. Just that they aren't as special as I thought it would be. For othe price price, I would invest in a more concentrated serum/ampoule and a less scented, more hydrating toner/essence.

Glossier Milky Jelly Cleanser

lavlilacs Glossier Milky Jelly Cleanser Review

Would it be difficult to believe that the Glossier Milky Jelly Cleanser is the first thing I tried from this ever so trendy brand? From their millennial pink to their esthetic packaging and showroom, beauty lovers everywhere can't get enough of their emphasis on natural, barely-there looks and great skin. I was surprisingly more interested in their colored makeup items (i.e. cloud paints and haloscope) but couldn't miss trying what seems like their most popular skincare item at least once.

lavlilacs Glossier Milky Jelly Cleanser bottle back and front

Glossier's description:

This is the ultimate daily face wash: use on dry skin to dissolve away makeup and grime, or on wet skin as you start your day. The pH-balanced, creamy gel formula is made with a blend of five skin conditioners so your face is left feeling healthy and soft, never tight. Its cleansing power comes from the same gentle cleaning agents found in contact lens solution, so it’s tough on impurities and still safe to use on your eyes. You’ll see.

Good to know: hypoallergenic, dermatologist tested, safe for the eye area, ophthalmologist tested, appropriate for all skin types, soap free, paraben free, sulfate free, cruelty free, non-comedogenic, vegan

Poloxamer: A strong yet mild cleansing agent used in contact lens solution.

Rosewater: We replaced 1/4 of the H2O content with soothing rosewater (bonus: smells great!).

Comfrey Root Extract: Contains allantoin, which heals dry, stressed skin.

Aquaxyl: Refills skin’s water reserves and improves its barrier to prevent dehydration.

Pro-Vitamin B5: Powerful, natural moisturizer found in mushrooms and cheese.

Directions
To start your day—massage 1-2 pumps onto wet skin (keep it in the shower!) and rinse.
To remove makeup*—on dry skin, gently and thoroughly massage 2-3 pumps directly onto eye area to melt away mascara; add water, massage over the rest of your face, and rinse.

*unless it’s waterproof, in which case you should first remove with Milky Oil, and follow with Milky Jelly Cleanser for complete clean.

Ingredients
WATER/AQUA/EAU, ROSA DAMASCENA FLOWER WATER, PEG-7 GLYCERYL COCOATE, PROPANEDIOL, ISOHEXADECANE, POLOXAMER 184, ACRYLAMIDE/SODIUM ACRYLOYLDIMETHYLTAURATE COPOLYMER, XYLITYLGLUCOSIDE, BETAINE, ALLANTOIN, GLYCERIN, PANTHENOL, SYMPHYTUM OFFICINALE ROOT EXTRACT, SODIUM HYALURONATE, ANHYDROXYLITOL, POLYSORBATE 80, XYLITOL, AMMONIUM POLYACRYLOYLDIMETHYL TAURATE, ISOPROPYL MYRISTATE, BENZOIC ACID, ETHYLHEXYLGLYCERIN, SODIUM HYDROXIDE

Cleanser 177 ml / 6 fl oz

Glossier: USD $18.00


Cleanser 60 ml / 2 fl oz

Glossier: USD $9.00

lavlilacs Glossier Milky Jelly Cleanser bottle details

Packaging

A translucent plastic white bottle with a pump dispenser. The cleanser did not come inside another box packaging nor were there any extra security seals. However, it is easy to tell if the bottle is new since the first several pumps will provide no product.

I am not sure this is the right packaging choice for the consistency of the cleanser (in the long run). Even though I can see very clearly how much product remains in the bottle, I don't think the tube inside is long enough to dispense every last bit of the gel. It would be hard to shake out or liquify the cleanser with some water since it is such a thick consistency to begin with.

(Perhaps I stand to be corrected when I actually reach the end myself. This is just the thoughts I have right now.)

My biggest gripe is probably with the short pump design. Not much cleanser is dispensed each pump. Since the gel is so thick I cannot easily spread just one or two pumps across my entire face and neck. It forces me to use more product than I would like to at once.

lavlilacs Glossier Milky Jelly Cleanser swatch

Color, Texture, Finish, & Scent

The gel comes straight out of the bottle a cloudy/milky white but is clear and colorless once spread around. It feels very thick, heavy, and requires a little too much effort to spread for my comfort; it is not watery like one typically associates with gels. The product doesn't foam or lather yet it also doesn't sink into the skin. Adding water doesn't emulsify it either. My skin doesn't feel dry or tight afterward, just soft. There is a very strong rose scent as long as the cleanser is on the skin.

How I Apply

After a cleansing oil or balm. Pump 3-5 times (depending on if I only want to cleanse my face or face + neck). Massage thoroughly. Rinse off with water.

Thoughts & Recommendations

Maybe I am too biased toward cleansers that foam? I was not very impressed with the Milky Jelly Cleanser.

My feelings for the Glossier cleanser would probably be a world's difference had it been easier to spread and wash off (unlike the CeraVe cleanser in that sense). Tugging and wrongly massaging the skin supposedly contributes to or at the very least encourages wrinkling; I feel like the consistency of this particular cleanser encourages me to rub too much to clean my face AND clean the product off. It just loves to stick to the skin unless it is practically powered washed away with water. The choices I am left with are to spend what feels like an eternity at the sink rinsing my face or cleansing in the shower with a water stream that is typically too strong and hot—neither of which are appealing.

While I am not the biggest fan of the rose scent in beauty products, it also doesn't bother me that much either. The most important point is the smell isn't strong or lingering enough to give me a headache. I know there are people out there who love this kind of scent.

I am most thankful for the product not breaking me out. I did enjoy that my skin never felt tight or parched after use. If it is rinsed well enough, there is no residue left behind either. While I didn't trust the cleanser completely to use for removing a full face of makeup, it does work to wash off sunscreens.

Overall, this was worth one try. I can't always be so single-minded about the cleanser types I use. I would probably recommend the CeraVe cleanser over Glossier's purely because it is larger, cheaper, and easier to use. Keep your monies to try some of Glossier's other products.

Banila Co. Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm - Nourishing

lavlilacs Banila Co Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm Nourishing review

Banila Co.'s update to the Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm line had me nervous at first. The saying goes: if it isn't broke, don't fix it. Some customers wanted to see all the balms be mineral oil-less yet it was beloved by so many regardless of it having mineral-oil. Heck, they used to have a mineral oil-less version alongside the others so changes didn't seem that necessary in my eyes. Sometimes reformulations don't always end up being better; in this case, however, I think Banila Co. put my worries to rest to say the very least.





lavlilacs Banila Co Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm Nourishing packaging

lavlilacs Banila Co Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm Nourishing leaflet

Banila Co. 's Descriptions:

Clean it Zero 3-in-1 Cleansing Balm + Nourishing is a hypoallergenic cleanser that transforms from a sherbet-like balm texture into a smooth oil when applied to skin. Developed to remove even waterproof makeup and all of your skin’s impurities in just one step. Zero Balance Technology with Ginseng Berry & Royal Jelly deeply cleanses and gently exfoliates without stripping the skin, leaving it hydrated and moisturized.

ZERO BALANCE TECHNOLOGY – A proprietary blend of actives that effectively cleanses skin deeply without disturbing the skin’s natural moisture balance.

Added Ginseng Berry and Royal Jelly for an intense rush of moisture for supple glowing skin.

Formulated without:
•Parabens
•Sulfates
•Phthalates
•Mineral oil
•Alcohol
•Artificial coloring

Directions
Use spatula included to scoop balm. Gently massage in circular motions onto dry skin using your fingertips. Rinse well with lukewarm water or wipe off with face cloth or tissue. Pat skin dry.

Ingredients (translated from packaging)
ETHYLHEXYL PALMITATE, CETYL ETHYLHEXANOATE, PEG-20 GLYCERYL TRIISOSTEARATE, PEG-10 ISOSTEARATE, SYNTHETIC WAX, CARTHAMUS TINCTORIUS (SAFFLOWER) SEED OIL, PANAX GINSENG BERRY EXTRACT, OENOTHERA BIENNIS (EVENING PRIMROSE) OIL, HELIANTHUS ANNUUS (SUNFLOWER) SEED OIL, SQUALANE, PHENOXYETHANOL, BUTYLENE GLYCOL, TOCOPHERYL ACETATE, FRAGRANCE, ETHYLHEXYLGLYCERIN, PANAX GINSENG ROOT EXTRACT, ROYAL JELLY EXTRACT, WATER, 1,2-HEXANEDIOL, BAMBUSA VULGARIS LEAF/STEM EXTRACT, ASPALATHUS LINEARIS EXTRACT, ANGELICA ARCHANGELICA ROOT EXTRACT, MALPIGHIA GLABRA (ACEROLA) FRUIT EXTRACT, ZEA MAYS (CORN) OIL, BETA-CAROTENE, POLYDIETHYLENEGLYCOL ADIPATE/IPDI COPOLYMER, TOCOPHEROL, ACRYLATES/AMMONIUM METHACRYLATE COPOLYMER, ACRYLATES/METHOXY PEG-15 METHACRYLATE COPOLYMER

Balm 100 ml

Banila Co. (Korean retail): ₩22,000
Banila Co. (US retail): USD $24.00
RoseRoseShop: ₩22,000
SOKO GLAM and Peach&Lily: USD $24.00
oo35mm: USD $27.99

lavlilacs Banila Co Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm Nourishing security sticker

lavlilacs Banila Co Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm Nourishing tub details

lavlilacs Banila Co Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm Nourishing contents

Packaging

A sturdy, yet lightweight, plastic tub with a screw-on cap. It isn't see-through but that wouldn't be a problem as you can open the jar to clearly see how much product is left. The included spatula has a nice large round paddle for easier handling and scooping. New balms come with an inner security seal and authentication seal.

Even though on the outside it looks as if the body of the tub is larger than the opening, I appreciate the fact that the inside of the jar is straight up and down. This results in an easier time when scooping without having to dig under the rim of the jar lip. It is bad news for those who dislike excess plastic usage. The packaging would have been better had it incorporated a flip-top cap for even easier one-handed access.

lavlilacs Banila Co Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm Nourishing swatch

Color, Texture, Finish & Scent

A faint pastel yellow color cleansing balm with a soft, mushy "sorbet" feel. It rubs into the skin easily and smooths into a lightweight consistency. The balm emulsifies and rinses away quickly without requiring a ton of rubbing. It did not leave behind any residue or film nor did it make my skin feel tight. The sweet, floral scent isn't strong or lingering.

The brand currently focuses on essentially providing the same cleanisng balm base with just varying ingredientns that give Original, Revitalizing, Purifying, and Nourishing their "flavors" or "scents".

lavlilacs Banila Co Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm Nourishing before after

How I Apply

The amount I use varies greatly depending on how much makeup I wear but I find a scoop of product with the provided spatula is usually enough for an average day's worth of makeup.

I rub the product between the palms of my hands prior to applying it to my face. Then I will lightly massage all around, including over my eyelids and lips. When I feel like I've thoroughly worked it into every corner of my made-up face, I'll wet my hands a little to start emulsifying the balm. After which I generously splash my face until most of the product is washed away.

Thoughts & Recommendations

I cannot say for sure how the ones now fair against the previous generation because I had only tried their mineral oil-less, "Purity", version in the past. But I would say this current formulation works just as well I remembered.

The Clean It Zero balm is easy to spread and massage. It doesn't feel overly suffocating and sticky on my skin. All the makeup is generally removed very well, granted I massage thoroughly. I did not ever break out from using the product nor have irritated eyes if I work it in that area. The main point that still blows my mind is how long I could go prior to moisturizing without feeling tight and parched...even when I use the cleanisng balm alone! Perhaps that is the "nourishing" elements at work?

Even though the renewal is meant to be more sensitive-skin friendly, ingredient-analyzing websites do show that the Clean It Zero Cleansing Balms still have some potentially non-oily/non-fungal acne friendly ingredients. Fragrance is in all the versions too; it is quite high on the ingredients list, despite it being a sensitive-skin trigger for some.

My biggest wish now would just be for Banila Co. to offer a jumbo size (180ml for $27 v. 100 ml for $24) in all versions rather than just the "Original". I tried the "Nourishing" one first and love it yet cannot benefit from the value size and price. I guess I have to give the "Original" version a try now to see how it compares. Otherwise, I would gladly repurchase and continue to use the reformulated Clean It Zero Cleansing Balms.

Squalane - Olivarrier versus Deciem The Ordinary

lavlilacs Squalane Oil Olivarrier versus Deciem The Ordinary

Squalane has been enjoying a bit of attention lately. I think most of it is due to its similarity to the oils naturally produced by our skin, or so all the brands say. Pair that with the new push for wanting to help oily skin by not stripping but hydrating and just to help the general lack of sebum for dry skin, the market for squalane only seems to grow larger from here on out.

When the only ingredient in a beauty vial are both supposedly the same in name, I start to get curious as what the differences are in the cheaper and expensive options. Olivarrier and Deciem's The Ordinary both claim their versions are plant-based and vegan. Each bottle also come in 30ml sized bottles. Yet one is 4-5x pricier than the other. Would it be 4-5x times better in anyway?

(I do not go into the benefits of Squalane. Please do your own research to determine if it is right for you. This is purely a comparison of what is more worth. For a review on how I like other squalane-incorporated products, click here.)


lavlilacs Olivarrier Fluid Oil packaging

Olivarrier's Oil description:

Fluid Oil uses 100% plant squalane oils that can only be extracted from the best, healthy olives.

The final product is similar to human sebum, keeping the skin fresh without oily sticky residue. It is a fragrance-free, colorless, non-preservative ingredient that is safe for babies and pregnant women. Can be used for all skin types, including dry, sensitive and trouble-prone skin.

Air pollution, stress, unhealthy foods, and heat all contribute to lipid oxidation that leads to skin aging and dryness.

Healthy skin maintains 20-30% moisture and 70-80% oil, but many times dry skin is only given moisture. Fluid oil maintains the lipid barrier and prevents dryness due to lack of oil your skin needs.

Protects skin from ultraviolet rays and peroxide that cause aging and dryness, and prevents roughness and dryness due to moisture loss. It is a non-comedogenic ingredient, meaning your skin can retain moisture without clogging pores. It prevents the accumulation of thick keratin by keeping the keratin moisturized and helps strengthen the skin barrier.

This clear, small bottle contains effective moisturizers for healthy skin, with safe ingredients that can be used by every member of your family.

We have completely eliminated chemical ingredients, and have credibility through clinical and demanding certifications. Responsible thinking about people and the environment creates clean, green products that are also good for your skin.

Directions
Use one or two drops and apply to the face by gently patting into the skin. Apply after Emollient Extra Comfort Cream or Dual Moist Comfort Cream.

Ingredients
100% OLIVE SQUALANE

Oil 30 ml / 1.01 fl oz

Olivarrier (Korean retail): ₩36,000
Olivarrier (American retail): USD $38.00
OHLOLLY: USD $38.00
Peach & Lily: USD $42.00
YESSTYLE: USD $24.90


lavlilacs Deciem The Ordinary 100% Plant-Derived Squalane packaging

Deciem's description:

Water-free, alcohol-free, oil-free, silicone-free, nut-free, vegan, gluten-free, & cruelty-free

Squalane is a saturated and stable hydrocarbon that is found naturally in the skin. It has very high emollience, is an exceptional hydrator and can prevent ongoing loss of hydration that impairs dermal suppleness. Squalane is non-comedogenic and is suitable for use on all skin types. It can also be applied to hair to increase heat protection, add shine and reduce breakage potential.

Note: This product uses 100% pure plant-derived Squalane that is ECOCERT approved and is a USDA Certified Bio-based Product.

Directions
Apply a few drops daily or as needed to entire face ideally after water-based treatments. If irritation occurs, cease use and consult a physician. Use only as directed on unbroken skin. Patch testing prior to use is advised.

Ingredients
SQUALANE

Oil 30 ml

Deciem: USD $7.90

lavlilacs Squalane Oil Olivarrier versus Deciem The Ordinary bottle

lavlilacs Squalane Oil Olivarrier versus Deciem The Ordinary pipettes

Packaging

Olivarrier
A transparent plastic bottle with a dropper cap. New bottles do not come with an extra security seal. The dropper doesn't reach all the way to the bottom of the bottle but it does get impressively close. Travel friendly as the lid screws on very tightly and doesn't stand the chance to shatter.

The Ordinary
A tinted glass bottle with a dropper cap. New bottles do not come with an extra security seal. The dropper doesn't reach anywhere near the bottom of the bottle. Not as travel friendly in terms of bottle material and screw-top quality.

Color, Texture, Finish, & Scent

There is virtually no difference between the actual squalane (oil) product of Olivarrier and The Ordinary.

The liquid is a scent-less and super-duper lightweight, dry-type facial oil. It spreads easily and sinks into the skin well. There is no slippery and slick feel that is typically associated with things "oily" in nature. Unlike the toner, essence, and cream, there is definitely a longer tacky and sheen finish period after application but it isn't that long either. Neither brand broke me out or caused any sensitivities.

How I Apply

Place one drop of oil on my forehead, one drop on each cheek, and maybe one for neck/chest. Gently rub and pat until the oil is evenly distributed.

Place 3-5 drops of oil onto the palm of my hands. Rub both palms together to create a thin layer between my hands. Gently press my palms and fingers across my face, neck, and chest.

lavlilacs Squalane Oil Olivarrier versus Deciem The Ordinary swatch

Thoughts & Recommendations

People say a lot of what we pay for in beauty is in the packaging, especially if research and development are taken out of the equation. I think it can't be more true than in this situation with the Olivarrier Fluid Oil and Deciem The Ordinary 100% Plant-Derived Squalane.

The Ordinary is definitely the no frills option. You get what you "should" pay for and it will not break the bank. The brand get a standard bottle and fills it with high-quality ingredients/basic-yet-effective formulas.

Olivarrier probably spent a good deal of time deciding what the best delivery method would be, even for something as simple as a bottle of facial oil. You then pay for all the trial and error but in the end get the most user friendly experience.

Something to point out that isn't a deal-breaker: Olivarrier's dropper is shorter and thinner than The Ordinary's so it dispenses out a slightly smaller-sized drop of oil.

Something that is worth pointing out: After having used more than half the bottle of both, Olivarrier's dropper also has better control in the sense that nothing drips out until I squeeze the silicone bulb. It isn't the worst attribute because I have learned to work around the issue but still an "issue" nonetheless.

Something that is a deal-breaker (to me): The pipette of The Ordinary doesn't reach bottom of the bottle. This makes picking up the last 0.5" worth of product a pain. I have to tilt the bottle and pipette every which way to get it just right. The ultimately option would be to pour it straight out of the bottle onto my hands which throws quantity control out the window.

Some things that are a bit iffy: The Ordinary markets their product not as an oil. Their page clearly says the 100% Plant-Derived Squalane is "Oil-Free". There is also a lack of where exactly their squalane is derived from, whereas Olivarrier says theirs come from olives (sugarcane seems to be another plant of origin for some other brands that carry squalane).

With all that said, I can't say I regret purchasing either The Ordinary Squalane or Olivarrier Fluid Oil. The former is way more affordable just with meh packaging and the latter is far more expensive with great packaging. If I were to repurchase something squalane again, I will probably go for cheaper option BUT refill it into the better bottle. I would recommend those looking to try squalane for the first time to test with the less expensive option first to see how the skin reacts before dropping more dollars for the better bottle in the future.

Olivarrier

lavlilacs Olivarrier Brand Review Toner Essence Cream Oil

Nothing gets me more excited than skincare sales. Nothing is more disappointing than when products others rave about are just alright or, even worse, not compatible with my skin. It seemed like the more skincare I tried from my Peach & Lily sample sale stash, the fewer gems I was discovering. I knew nothing about the brand when bought this set of Olivarrier productst; now I cannot rave about and love it enough.

lavlilacs Olivarrier Hello

lavlilacs Olivarrier Dual Moist Toning Lotion packaging

Olivarrier's Toner description:

Say no to controversial chemical ingredients, and yes to natural, healthy skin. Using only plant-derived ingredients provides a fresh, moisturizing feeling. Begin and end your day with this moisturizer for a refreshing start and relaxing finish.

Irritation or excessive use of alkaline cleansers can result in a loss of balance between oil and moisture after cleansing. Skin that experiences this broken balance has a change in pH levels, causing dryness and other skin troubles.

Skin with a pH of 4.4-5.5 claims a mildly acidic, healthy state. This protects from harmful external factors and normalizes skin turn-over. Dual Moist Toning Lotion is a mild acid similar to the pH of healthy skin, reducing irritation to the skin and allowing sensitive skin customers to use it safely.

Without adequate oil content, moisturizers can weaken the skin barrier and cause excessive sebum and dryness. Dual Moist helps to fill your skin with an adequate amount of moisture, resulting in a stronger skin barrier.

Directions
Apply after cleansing to soothe and condition during your skincare routine. Can be layered on multiple times. Follow with Dual Moist Hyaluron Essence.

Ingredients
WATER, PENTYLENE GLYCOL, PROPANEDIOL, SQUALANE, HYDROLYZED HYALURONIC ACID, SODIUM HYALURONATE, CENTELLA ASIATICA EXTRACT, GLYCERIN, POLYGLYCERIN-3, POLYGLYCERYL-10 LAURATE, POLYGLYCERYL-10 MYRISTATE, SODIUM CITRATE, ZANTHOXYLUM PIPERITUM FRUIT EXTRACT, PULSATILLA KOREANA EXTRACT, USNEA BARBATA (LICHEN) EXTRACT, XANTHAN GUM, CITRIC ACID, ARGININE

Toner 200 ml / 6.76 fl oz

Olivarrier (Korean retail): ₩22,000
Olivarrier (American retail): USD $26.00
OHLOLLY: USD $26.00
Peach & Lily: USD $28.00
YESSTYLE: USD $40.90


lavlilacs Olivarrier Dual Moist Hyaluron Essence packaging

Olivarrier's Essence description:

With micro-hyaluronic acid, this product provides a deeper level of moisture for your skin. Squalane and tocopherol help prevent oxidation and loss of moisture, helping to maintain healthy and resilient skin.

It is a daily essential essence for all skin including dryness, complexity, and sensitivity. All ingredients are EWG green grade, pH5.5 and 95% natural plant materials.

Supply and balance of oil and moisture are the most important goals of basic skincare. Moisture retention in the stratum corneum produces regular keratin production and elimination, healthy skin protection, and smooth skin texture.

Using micro-hyaluronic acid provides a lightweight moisturizer to help maintain the elasticity of the skin.

Micro-hyaluronic acid is a very small size with a molecular weight of less than 5,000 daltons. It attracts moisture from the stratum corneum of the skin, which can not reach normal hyaluronic acid, to help maintain moisture and elasticity of the skin.

Protect skin from harmful external factors with Dual Moist Hyaluron Essence. With a mild acid similar to the pH naturally occurring in healthy skin, this product reduces irritation and works safely for all skin types, including sensitive skin.

Directions
Apply after Dual Moist Toning Lotion. Use a dime-sized amount for your full face, gently patting until completely absorbed. Follow with Emollient Extra Comfort Cream or Dual Moist Comfort Cream and 100% Fluid Oil.

Ingredients
WATER, PENTYLENE GLYCOL, SQUALANE, POLYGLYCERIN-3, HYDROLYZED HYALURONIC ACID, COCOS NUCIFERA (COCONUT) OIL, GARDENIA TAHITENSIS FLOWER, TOCOPHEROL, CAMELLIA SINENSISLEAF EXTRACT, CHAMOMILLA RECUTITA (MATRICARIA) FLOWER EXTRACT, CENTELLA ASIATICA EXTRACT, ALOE BARBADENSISLEAF EXTRACT, LAVANDULA ANGUSTIFOLIA (LAVENDER) FLOWER EXTRACT, GLYCERIN, CETEARYL OLIVATE, SORBITAN OLIVATE, C14-22 ALCOHOLS, XANTHAN GUM, C12-20 ALKYL GLUCOSIDE, PULSATILLA KOREANA EXTRACT, ZANTHOXYLUM PIPERITUM FRUIT EXTRACT, USNEA BARBATA (LICHEN) EXTRACT, ARGININE, GAULTHERIA PROCUMBENS (WINTERGREEN) LEAF EXTRACT

Essence 100 ml / 3.38 fl oz

Olivarrier (Korean retail): ₩32,000
Olivarrier (American retail): USD $36.00
OHLOLLY: USD $36.00
Peach & Lily: USD $40.00
YESSTYLE: USD $24.90


lavlilacs Olivarrier Emollient Extra Comfort Cream packaging

Olivarrier's Cream description:

Pro-vitamin B5 panthenol, squalane, and organic shea butter are highly concentrated to soothe sensitive skin and provide moisture to rough skin. For sensitive and dry skin, this helps create a barrier that is soothing protection to the external environment.

Your skin barrier consists of a combination of lipids on the surface of the skin. It protects the skin from moisture loss and external environmental factors. When the skin barrier breaks down, the moisture evaporates and the skin becomes more sensitive and dry.

Emollient Extra Comfort Cream is made for even the most sensitive skin. The natural formula means it can be comforting to babies, sensitive pregnant women, and all others who suffer from rough or dry skin due to moisture loss. It is a relaxing moisturizing cream that comforts sensitive skin and makes you feel at ease.

Vitamin B5 Panthenol strengthens the skin barrier, helps prevent moisture loss from stratum corneum, and helps calm irritated skin. It is also the main ingredient in baby ointments to treat sensitive skin and dryness. Emollient Extra Comfort Cream contains 5% of highly concentrated panthenol to prevent moisture loss and quickly calm irritated skin.

This cream contains 20% shea butter, which is rich in natural vitamins such as A, D, E, and F. These work to calm skin that has been upset by external stimuli and UV rays. Our shea butter has been extracted from organic grown fruits in cultivated land that has not used chemical fertilizer for more than three years.

Squalene, present in 12% of phospholipids, protects skin against drying and UV rays and helps prevent against harmful environmental factors.

The superior antioxidant effect prevents moisture loss, strengthens the skin barrier, and quickly penetrates without blocking pores to make skin soft.

Directions
Use a dime-sized amount and massage into skin in light, circular motions all over your face. Follow with 100% Fluid Oil to lock in the moisture.

Ingredients
WATER, BUTYROSPERMUM PARKII (SHEA) BUTTER, PANTHENOL, PENTYLENE GLYCOL, SQUALANE, POLYGLYCERYL-3 STEARATE,CETEARYL OLIVATE, COCOS NUCIFERA (COCONUT) OIL, CANOLA OIL, XANTHAN GUM, ZANTHOXYLUM PIPERITUM FRUIT EXTRACT, PULSATILLA KOREANA EXTRACT, USNEA BARBATA (LICHEN) EXTRACT, GAULTHERIA PROCUMBENS (WINTERGREEN) LEAF EXTRACT

Cream (Extra) 75 ml / 2.53 fl oz

Olivarrier (Korean retail): ₩28,000
Olivarrier (American retail): USD $29.00
OHLOLLY: USD $29.00
Peach & Lily: USD $36.00
YESSTYLE: USD $19.90


lavlilacs Olivarrier Fluid Oil packaging

Olivarrier's Oil description:

Fluid Oil uses 100% plant squalane oils that can only be extracted from the best, healthy olives.

The final product is similar to human sebum, keeping the skin fresh without oily sticky residue. It is a fragrance-free, colorless, non-preservative ingredient that is safe for babies and pregnant women. Can be used for all skin types, including dry, sensitive and trouble-prone skin.

Air pollution, stress, unhealthy foods, and heat all contribute to lipid oxidation that leads to skin aging and dryness.

Healthy skin maintains 20-30% moisture and 70-80% oil, but many times dry skin is only given moisture. Fluid oil maintains the lipid barrier and prevents dryness due to lack of oil your skin needs.

Protects skin from ultraviolet rays and peroxide that cause aging and dryness, and prevents roughness and dryness due to moisture loss. It is a non-comedogenic ingredient, meaning your skin can retain moisture without clogging pores. It prevents the accumulation of thick keratin by keeping the keratin moisturized and helps strengthen the skin barrier.

This clear, small bottle contains effective moisturizers for healthy skin, with safe ingredients that can be used by every member of your family.

We have completely eliminated chemical ingredients, and have credibility through clinical and demanding certifications. Responsible thinking about people and the environment creates clean, green products that are also good for your skin.

Directions
Use one or two drops and apply to the face by gently patting into the skin. Apply after Emollient Extra Comfort Cream or Dual Moist Comfort Cream.

Ingredients
100% OLIVE SQUALANE

Oil 30 ml / 1.01 fl oz

Olivarrier (Korean retail): ₩36,000
Olivarrier (American retail): USD $38.00
OHLOLLY: USD $38.00
Peach & Lily: USD $42.00
YESSTYLE: USD $24.90


Packaging, Color, Texture, Finish, & Scent

Each product comes in their own unique package which ultimately fits with their respective consistencies while avoiding too much contamination. What all of them have in common is their clean labeling design. Even though the boxes bombard with information, the actual bottles themselves are simple and concise: name, extremely short description, size, application directions, and expiration.

lavlilacs Olivarrier Dual Moist Toning Lotion bottle details

lavlilacs Olivarrier Dual Moist Toning Lotion swatch

Toner
An opaque plastic bottle with a screw-on cap. New bottles come with a security seal covering the opening where the product comes out of. Since the product is liquid I did not mind the fact that the bottle isn't see-through (as I could easily shake and feel for it). However, for ease of use, I would have preferred if it had a flip-top cap instead.

The toner is color-less and scent-less. The liquid itself is very fluid and water-like; with no viscosity or stickiness to it. Once wiped or smoothed onto the skin it feels as if nothing is applied yet the skin becomes immediately softer.


lavlilacs Olivarrier Dual Moist Hyaluron Essence bottle details

lavlilacs Olivarrier Dual Moist Hyaluron Essence swatch

Essence
An opaque plastic bottle with a pump dispenser and detachable cap. There is no extra security seal with new bottles. Fret not, it is easy to tell if unused or not since there will be endless pumping of nothing before the product appears. I love using pump dispensers but not so much in non-see through things. It is hard to see if the product is running low. Judging by feel is not accurate either as the thicker viscosity of the essence can cling to the insides of the bottle.

The essence is scent-less and color-less but does have a cloudy, milky look to it straight out of the bottle (which is unnoticeable once blended in). There is some viscosity to it but overall a lightweight, runny fluid. The product spreads into a water-like consistency and sinks in well. The essence does leave a tad tacky feeling unless it is well absorbed into the skin. After my skin drinks it up, it feels as if nothing has been applied yet retains a well hydrating effect.


lavlilacs Olivarrier Emollient Extra Comfort Cream bottle details

lavlilacs Olivarrier Emollient Extra Comfort Cream swatch

Cream (Extra)
An opaque plastic squeeze tube with a screw-on cap. A new tube will have a security seal covering the dispensing opening. Again, I really don't prefer this kind of non-see through packaging. The saving grace with this particular choice is that the tube remains very pillowy and airy inside even after using it a lot so the cream doesn't ever get stuck in corners as how something like a toothpaste tube does.

The cream is scent-less and comes out of the tube white. Don't worry because once blended it leaves no cast. For an "extra" comfort cream, it is surprisingly lightweight and easy to spread. The skin doesn't feel suffocated yet retains its moisture while leaving a velvety matte finish. There aren't any silicones on the ingredients list but that is the most similar texture I could think of (sans the pore-filling aspect).


lavlilacs Olivarrier Fluid Oil bottle details

lavlilacs Olivarrier Fluid Oil swatch

Oil
A transparent (hallelujah) plastic bottle with a dropper cap. New bottles do not come with an extra security seal. Unlike the 3 products mentioned above, I don't have see-through qualms with this packaging. Even though the dropper itself doesn't reach all the way to the bottom of the bottle it gets impressively close. I honestly didn't know that the quality of droppers was a thing until I tried 2 different bottles of squalane oil at once. For those interested, Olivarrier's dropper is far superior; oil does not drip out of the dropper until I am ready to squeeze the dropper bulb.

The oil is a scent-less and super-duper lightweight, dry-type facial oil. It spreads very easily and sinks into the skin well. There is no slippery and slick feel that is typically associated with things "oily" in nature. Unlike the toner, essence, and cream, there is definitely a longer tacky and sheen finish period after applying the oil but it isn't that long either.

How I Apply

After cleansing, pour some Toning Lotion onto cotton and wipe my face and neck.

Then pump the Hyaluron Essence once on each cheek and gently smooth that all over my face and neck. Pat to help the product sink in quicker.

Then squeeze between 1-3 finger lengths worth of cream onto my hand (depending on dry or humid weather and if I  apply to face and neck). Gently dot and spread the moisturizer evenly.

Then squeeze 2-3 drops of oil either directly onto my face (one on the forehead, one on each cheek) and smooth with fingertips light strokes or into my palms first, rub to distribute, and pat into my skin.

*I have used all 4 products altogether and separately (toner + essence, toner + cream, toner + oil). Methods of application are still the same.

Thoughts & Recommendations

I think the last time I tried a full brand or line's worth of products was way back when with Hada Labo. Both are similar in the sense that they hace items that focus on a star ingredient (HL = hyaluronic acid, Olivarrier = squalane) which targets supercharged and moisturized skin.

Unlike Hada Labo, Olivarrier also tries to be as "simple" and "clean" as possible by formulating without color, fragrance, and parabens/preservatives. While all their products are marketed for sensitive skin, there are a few ingredients in certain products that may not work well for certain sensitive skin types (i.e. lavender extract, coconut oil) nor fungal acne (refer to SkinCharisma's ingredients breakdown).

As for myself, I did not react badly to the products at all and find that my skin loves all the moisturizing ability each one has to offer. The set is very versatile in that it works great when using alone, pairing a few or all of them together. Despite the varying weather condition in New York, I could easily customize my routine within the range depending on how dry my skin is. Everything is lightweight enough to use in the most humid of days while keeping the moisture in during the driest of times as well without being too thick and heavy.

I am a little partial because I love these a lot for the price I paid (which is about 1/3 of the retail since I got a while back 2 Peach & Lily sample sale's ago). However, given the actual price point of each item I honestly would only repurchase 2 items at full retail (Toning Lotion and Extra Comfort Cream) and the other 2 only if it were on sale (Hyaluron Essence and Squalane Oil). This is not to say the latter two are bad but it is very pricey compared to the quantity given, especially when compared to the former two. Plus, I believe that for a majority of people the Toner + Cream combo would be more than sufficient to use all year round. The Essence and Oil are just extras for those who truly need them.

Those with dry skin will probably adore this line. I think even those with oily skin would like it simply because of the barely-there finish all the products have. This means that everyone in between, from combination to normal skin, could find something fitting as well. Anyone looking for something gentle and, generally, non-irritating to use along with strong actives may enjoy the Olivarrier line a lot too.

AROMATICA Sea Daffodil Aqua Toner

lavlilacs Aromatica Sea Daffodil Aqua Toner Review

Toners are a must in my skincare routine simply because I love the satisfaction of seeing a clean, and even a dirty, cotton after cleansing. The assurance that I start afresh with no dust or residual product and oils is comforting. In this sense, Aromatica's Sea Daffodil Aqua Toner did its job and quite well. Strangely, it still took me months to finally decide if I liked the product or was just chugging through something at hand.

lavlilacs Aromatica Sea Daffodil Aqua Toner packaging

Aromatica's description:

Enriched with USDA approved organic aloe vera leaf extract(93%), AROMATICA's Sea Daffodil Aqua Toner helps to provide rich moisture to the skin.

AROMATICA's upgraded-aqua-formula provides rich moisture to the skin and helps control excess sebum, leaving your skin feeling moisturized and re-balanced.

This refreshing toner is especially suitable for sensitive skin, formulated without any hazardous chemical ingredients.

Directions
After cleansing, apply a moderate amount to cotton pad and gently sweep it over face and neck.

Ingredients
*ALOE BARBADENSIS LEAF EXTRACT, GLYCERIN, PROPANEDIOL, POLYGLYCERYL-10 LAURATE, POLYGLYCERYL-10 MYRISTATE, VERBENA OFFICINALIS EXTRACT, ROSMARINUS OFFICINALIS LEAF EXTRACT, CHAMOMILLA RECUTITA FLOWER EXTRACT, ETHYLHEXYLGLYCERIN, PANCRATIUM MARITIMUM EXTRACT, AQUA, BETAINE, ALLANTOIN, **CITRUS LIMON FRUIT OIL, ADENOSINE, **CITRUS AURANTIUM DULCIS (ORANGE) PEEL OIL, **CITRUS AURANTIFOLIA OIL, **CITRUS AURANTIUM BERGAMIA FRUIT OIL, **CEDRUS ATLANTICA WOOD OIL

* CERTIFIED ORGANIC, ** NATURAL ESSENTIAL OILS

Toner 130 ml / 6.7 oz

Aromatica (Korean retail): ₩19,000
Aromatica (American retail): USD $27.00
Peach & Lily: USD $23.00

lavlilacs Aromatica Sea Daffodil Aqua Toner bottle back and front

lavlilacs Aromatica Sea Daffodil Aqua Toner close up

lavlilacs Aromatica Sea Daffodil Aqua Toner bottle back and front

Packaging

Aromatica does "transparency" literally and figuratively well. A frosted glass bottle with a twist-on cap. Underneath the lid is a plastic seal which corresponds to a holed-stopper for better control while dispensing toner. The label contains a surprising amount of information in multiple languages. Lot number, manufacture dates, and expiration dates are very clearly printed on the bottom as well.

(Side note: It seems the brand updated the label designs so I am not 100% sure if the new one is as detailed).

lavlilacs Aromatica Sea Daffodil Aqua Toner sprayed

Color, Texture, Finish, & Scent

The liquid is colorless but has a very strong orangy citrus scent that doesn't linger much after application. It feels just like water, leaving no tackiness or residue. Skin becomes softer and has a matte finish yet isn't overly drying.

How I Apply

Use after cleansing the face, twice a day. Pour about 6+ shakes worth of toner onto a cotton pad and wipe over my entire face and neck.

Thoughts & Recommendations

I am not bothered by Aromatica's Sea Daffodil Aqua Toner mostly because I bought it at a steep discount ($10 baby~). When I think about whether I like it enough to repurchase at full price though is the time I struggle to gather my opinions together for it.

At $23 per bottle, I guess I would be paying mostly for the glass bottle, the organic aloe leaf extract, and the fact that it is made mostly of aloe and not water. The toner really does what I want it to do well⁠—wipe away remaining debri and oil. It is satisfying to see yellow, build-up like things on a cotton (especially in the mornings when I only wash with water). The second important thing is it isn't drying or sensitizing. I haven't broken out from it either.

All that said, I don't quite think it is as nourishing and hydrating whilst sebum-controlling as Aromatica says it to be. My skin definitely doesn't feel dried out after using but also isn't deeply moisturized. To believe those claims whilst using would probably leave me very disappointed.

The bottom line is if I were looking for a toner that is far more hydrating, I would look elsewhere with my $20+. If I don't mind having something else in my routine for moisture and only want something that effectively wipes my face clean yet is not mainly water, I would give this a second go around.

Rose by dr. dream Mild Natured Powder Cleanser

lavlilacs Rose by Dr. Dream Mild Natured Powder Cleanser Review

In the new world of what makes a cleanser acceptable, Rose by dr. dream's Mild Natured Powder Cleanser seems to be a good compromise between the past and the present trends. The brand is supposedly created by a large plastic surgery clinic brand in South Korea who promises the product to be gentle, pH-balanced to best suit the human skin, and without any harsh additives or unnecessary fillers. I think I have finally gathered my thoughts for this cleanser after months of on and off use.

lavlilacs Rose by Dr. Dream Mild Natured Powder Cleanser packaging

dr. dream's description:

Soft bubbles (rose fragrances), Moist, Sensitive.

Hypo-allergenic powder cleanser that cleans dead skin cells, waste, and sebum in pores.

Hypo-allergenic powder cleanser forms soft bubbles during cleansing, which does not contain any artificial coloring, preservatives, and sulfate. Enzymes like papain and corn starch gently remove dead skin cells and waste in pores for deep cleaning. Rose stem cell and trehalose help skin to be moist and clear after cleansing.

Directions
Clean hand, take appropriate amount and lather soft bubbles, gently massage in circular motions, and rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.

Ingredients
ZEA MAYS (CORN) STARCH, SODIUM LAUROYL SARCOSINATE, NIACINAMIDE, ROSA HYBRID CALLUS CULTURE EXTRACT(1PPM), PAPAIN, BROMELAIN, ALLANTOIN,TREHALOSE, DIPOTASSIUM GLYCYRRHIZATE, PARFUME


Cleanser 70 g

Dr. Dream (Korean retail): ₩38,000
Peach & Lily: USD $38.00

lavlilacs Rose by Dr. Dream Mild Natured Powder Cleanser bottle seal

lavlilacs Rose by Dr. Dream Mild Natured Powder Cleanser close up

lavlilacs Rose by Dr. Dream Mild Natured Powder Cleanser bottle back and front

Packaging

Opaque bottle with a flip top cap and a small opening to dispense the powder cleanser out via shaking. I would have preferred if it was a little translucent if not transparent since it would allow me to actually see how much product is left. Otherwise, the actual method of dispensing isn't an issue for me.

Color, Texture, Finish, & Scent

The powder is white and seemingly soft out of the bottle. It has a strong rose scent that lingers for as long as the cleanser is on the face. Most of the powder acts and spreads like corn starch would on dry hands by leaving a velvety finish. A small portion of the powder is made up of more granular hard bits that don't break down even with the addition of water. I find the cleanser only likes the teeniest amount of water to give a slight lather or else it is immediately washed away rather than dissolving into any form of cleansing solution. A foaming net or cup does create foam but it isn't very dense and dissipates quickly.

When lathering and cleansing with only my hands, this cleanser leaves a very smooth and squeaky clean feeling on both my hands and face. I also immediately start to feel tightness if I don't moisturize soon after. When foaming with a contraption, the cleanser still leaves a squeaky clean feeling but my face doesn't feel as tight nor smooth.

lavlilacs Rose by Dr. Dream Mild Natured Powder Cleanser swatched

lavlilacs Rose by Dr. Dream Mild Natured Powder Cleanser lather and foam

How I Apply

Exfoliating + Cleansing // Wet my hands. Shake the bottle about 10 times onto one palm. Use the other wet palm (but not dripping wet) to rub against the cleanser and create a soft lather. Proceed to gently rub my face and rinse the product off.

Cleansing // Put a tiny amount of water into a foaming cup. Shake the bottle about 10 times to get the powder cleanser into the cup. Pump to create a light and fluffy foam. Scoop out the foam, gently rub my face, and rinse.

Thoughts & Recommendations

Like many Peach & Lily sample sale items, I purchased this cleanser completely blind. No researching and no review read ups made beforehand. Heck, I didn't even look up the ingredients or how-tos after opening the product up and started to use it. This I think is a part of the reason why I did not like the product for a very long time.

Without any pre-conceived notions placed in my head and based purely on how I thought the cleanser should be used, I flat out did not like how the cleanser made me feel. My hands and face felt a little too squeeky clean. It did not help that the powder cleanser did not give me much lather whilst feeling kind of gritty and not fully dissolvable. The longer I waited between the cleanser and toning step, the tighter my face started to feel.

I kept at that style of cleansing for a while until I remembered I had a foaming cup. It solved the biggest issues I had which was the lack of foam and hard bits. It lessened the squeeky clean finish too. But the foam wasn't very dense no matter how much more or less powder cleanser I added. The foam would disappear before I felt like I gave my face a good rubbing.

After some researching, I realized the Mild Natured Powder Cleanser is probably closer to a exfoliating cleanser with the included papain and bromelain (both enzymes found in papaya and pineapple respectively that has uses in skincare for exfoliation related purposes). Perhaps the squeeky clean feeling I felt wasn't just because the cleanser was too strong or heavy in surfectants like I had thought. Maybe it was just my face being relieved of some of the old skin and pore gunk?

I use the cleanser much differently now that I am armored with the new information. Rather than constantly giving myself daily exfolation (when I don't use the foaming cup), I use it every other day or every two days in place of a chemical exfoliant. Since I don't like the foam it gives, even when forced, I have just abandoned using it purely as a cleanser.

My skin does still feel squeeky clean but I have started to see that my face is also smoother when using than not. Also, since I am not essentially scrubbing my face daily it doesn't feel as sensitive as when I was in the hating phase with this product. The only thing I can do to help with the tightness I get after using the cleanser is to moisturize well.

I wouldn't recommend this for people looking for a gentle cleanser as the brand suggests. Those who want an exfoliator that isn't an AHA or BHA may find this intriguing as it is less harsh and irritating. People with drier skin may not enjoy the squeekiness and tightness though. As for whether I would repurchase, I am still deciding that myself to be completely honest. It is nice now that I have discovered the perfect use for it but there are so many other exfoliators I would like to try too.