23 Years Old C-Tragel Modeling Mask

lavlilacs 23 Years Old C-Tragel Modeling Mask

I am not usually one to splurge on masks. Affordable, huge-packs of sheet masks have been my jam ever since I joined the skincare game. Yet I always felt they lacked something. Despite all the claims of brightening, pore-reducing, oil-control, age-defying, and so on...it was always just another moisturizing and calming product for me.

For the price, I cannot complain. But there are some things that have always bothered me. I am essentially forced to lie down for 20-30 minutes so the sheet and essence wouldn't fall off. If I am particularly tired and fall asleep with it on, the cotton supposedly reabsorbs all the moisture back + whatever is in my skin. Finding a brand with a mask that fits well is also a hit or miss.

I have tried clay masks and peel-off charcoal masks; I hated the clean-up and the pain. When the modeling masks became crazily popular on Instagram, it seemed to promise sheet masks' hydration, peel-off masks' satisfaction, and being pain-free. I couldn't believe my eyes and was intrigued. 23 Years Old C-Tragel Modeling Mask encapsulates everything that is trending in Western and Korean skincare right now: masking, vitamin-C, niacinamide, Centella Asiatica extract, and Coptis Japonica root extract. What more could I ask for?

lavlilacs 23 Years Old C-Tragel Modeling Mask description

lavlilacs 23 Years Old C-Tragel Modeling Mask directions

WishTrend's Description:

The C-Tragel Modeling Mask captures in the moisture while giving your skin a tone up effect with a unique C-tragel and Vitamin powder blend to help your skin energize to seize the day. Tone up, moisturize, replenish, and energize easier and better with the C-Tragel Modeling Mask!

C-Tragel is the perfection solution to improve your skin with an innovative combination of seabuckthorn oil and four seed oil to relieve, moisturize, calm, soften, soothe, strengthen, and energize to give you the extra boost you need to push through your day flawlessly.

Directions
1. Combine the C-Tragel with Vitamin powder in the mixing bowl.
2. Use the spatula to mix the solution in one direction.
3. Using the spatula, spread an even layer of the mask onto the entire face.
4. After about 20 minutes, remove the mask peeling from the bottom in an upward direction once the mask becomes firm.
5. Use the heat of your palms to help absorption of the remaining essence of your face for about 15 seconds. The heat enhances the effects of vitamin C.

Ingredients
Gel packet
AQUA, GLYCERIN, GLUCOSE, PEG-75, ALGIN, BUTYLENE GLYCOL, POTASSIUM CHLORIDE GLYCYRRHIZA GLABRA(LICORICE) ROOT EXTRACT, CENTELLA ASIATICA EXTRACT, BUTYLENE GLYCOL, GLYCERIN, ZINGIBER OFFICINALE (GINGER) ROOT EXTRACT, SCHIZANDRA CHINENSIS FRUIT EXTRACT, COPTIS JAPONICA ROOT EXTRACT, CAMELLIA SINENSIS LEAF EXTRACT, PROPOLIS WAX, CAPRYLYL GLYCOL 1,2-HEXANEDIOL, PEG-60 HYDROGENATED CASTOR OIL, PEG-60 HYDROGENATED CASTOR OIL, TRISODIUM PHOSPHATE, TETRASODIUM PYROPHOSPHATE, CELLULOSE GUM, NIACINAMIDE, SIMMONDSIA CHINENSIS (JOJOBA) SEED OIL, HIPPOPHAE RHAMNOIDES OIL, HAMAMELIS VIRGINIANA (WITCH HAZEL) EXTRACT, BACILLUS/SOYBEAN FERMENT EXTRACT, MELALEUCA ALTERNIFOLIA (TEA TREE) LEAF EXTRACT, ACTINIDIA CHINENSIS (KIWI) FRUIT EXTRACT, MALPIGHIA EMARGINATA (ACEROLA) FRUIT EXTRACT, MANGIFERA INDICA (MANGO) FRUIT EXTRACT, ROSMARINUS OFFICINALIS (ROSEMARY) LEAF EXTRACT, CHAMOMILLA RECUTITA (MATRICARIA) FLOWER EXTRACT, PLANTAGO ASIATICA EXTRACT, THUJA ORIENTALIS EXTRACT, HOUTTUYNIA CORDATA EXTRACT, ALLANTOIN, DISODIUM EDTA, CITRUS LIMON (LEMON) PEEL OIL

Powder packet
GLUCOSE, CALCIUM SULFATE, CHAMOMILLA RECUTITA (MATRICARIA) FLOWER POWDER, ASCORBIC ACID, ALLANTOIN, NIACINAMIDE, MALPIGHIA GLABRA (ACEROLA) FRUIT EXTRACT, CAPSICUM ANNUUM FRUIT POWDER, ALOE BARBADENSIS LEAF POWDER, ZEA MAYS (CORN) STARCH

23pack (Korean e-commerce): ₩29,500
Wishtrend: USD $29.90
oo35mm: USD $25.99
Sasa: USD $29.50 (price varies sometimes)

lavlilacs 23 Years Old C-Tragel Modeling Mask security sticker

Packaging

The modeling mask contents come housed in a sturdy plastic jar with a twist on lid. 23 Years Old seals it to ensure authenticity and it looks like they even include a barcode for those who want further confirmation via their 23YO mobile app. I chose not to double check mine since I have trust in oo35mm (where I bought mine from) and didn't want to bother with an app download.

lavlilacs 23 Years Old C-Tragel Modeling Mask components

Each container comes with 4 sets of the gel, powder, and wooden sticks. The bigger oval-ish packet contains the gel portion of the modeling mask; the smaller rectangular packet has the powdery stuff. I like that everything is pre-portioned. There is no room for error on my part since I don't have to measure anything out myself. It is a headache for those who are eco-friendly because it is a lot of extra waste.

lavlilacs 23 Years Old C-Tragel Modeling Mask contents

Color, Texture, Finish, & Scent

The gel portion of the modeling mask, straight out of the packaging, is bright translucent yellow in color. It has a very noticeable citrus, specifically orange, scent.

The powder is mostly white with some brown speckles pre-mixing.

In case it isn't clear, I empty out the plastic container and use it as a mixing bowl. After I combine the wet and dry ingredients together the goop turns into a bright orange color with pulp-like bits suspended throughout. If the gel, pre-mixing, smelled a bit like citrus, the combined mixture smells just like cutting open a juicy orange. The gel becomes slightly runnier after it is blended yet still holds some shape.

There is an initial cooling sensation and tingliness immediately following application—as if you didn't know you had a cut and got some fresh orange juice on the wound while peeling its skin. The tingle doesn't last very long, maybe a few minutes max? I assume it is because of the ascorbic acid. It might also be the ascorbic acid + niacinamide pairing.

The goop is very easy to spread in the sense that it will not start drying and seizing up mid-application. It is much more forgiving application wise than the Lindsay clay modeling mask (that one starts drying within a few minutes after mixing the powder with water).

How I Apply

Tip #1
23 Year Old's gel modeling mask isn't overly drippy but the force of gravity is strong. I like to place more at the top (of forehead/highest point of cheeks) and let it naturally travel down while helping it along with the wooden stick. I do have to say that it was difficult the first few times I used the C-Tragel Modeling Mask because I was trying to stare at the mirror while scoop stuff out of the jar and applying it on my face, on top of trying to make sure nothing gets caught in my hair or drips onto the floor. But practices makes perfect, yeah?

Tip #2
Tied hair is a must. But a headband of some sort is also a necessity, a clip just won't do. Every little strand of hair must be pulled back and held down taut. It doesn't hurt at all to remove hair from the dried mask; it is still a pain in the butt to have to pick tiny pieces of gel out without a wash.

lavlilacs 23 Years Old C-Tragel Modeling Mask rubber gel mask

Thoughts & Recommendations

It takes around 30 minutes for the gel to completely set.  Even after the gel sets, it doesn't ever feel dry. You know like how jello can solidify but still have a damp/wet feel to the touch? I like that I can freely move my mouth, eyes, and nose if need be. Depending on how evenly the modeling mask is applied, it could come off in one piece. I found that the whole mask slides right off once I start lifting up some of the outer edges. Cleaning the mixing bowl is also a breeze—wipe with a tissue, rinse with water, and air dry.

Maybe my skin was pretty dry pre-masking or is it just the characteristic of modeling masks? Unlike sheet masks, there isn't much extra essence to pat in with the C-Tragel Modeling Mask—my face still looks very well moisturized and plump though! I could immediately move onto the next step in my routine and seal the essence in with a moisturizer. The mask seems to have helped with my pores throughout the next day since the pesky holes did seem less noticeable (without having done anything else new in my routine).

Even though modeling masks are pricier and require more effort when compared to sheet variety, I am beginning to prefer the gel mask more. The big factor is I could actually move my face and sit up without worrying about the sheet mask sliding off. Plus the act of mixing a mask and applying it to my skin with a spatula feels pretty relaxing...after I overcame the learning curve. Since I use these style of masks more sparingly it also feels more pampering rather than being just an extra step in a multi-stage routine whilst trying to conquer a neverending hoard of sheet masks.

October Haul

lavlilacs October 2017 haul - drugstore sales and coupons

You would think that after the massive skincare haul I made last month at Peach & Lily's sample sale I would not buy anything else for a while. Funny. There's always something to accumulate...apparently. At least the few items I picked up in October were all bought on sale, with discounts, or given to me as a gift/souvenir. Once CVS hooked and reeled me in with their discounts, I lost all control. I can see why there are people in the world who take coupon-ing very seriously. The satisfaction is unreal. I comfort myself by saying I paid $10 or less for each item.

When Neutrogena released their Light Therapy Acne Spot Treatment I was skeptical but intrigued. Price kept me from getting one to call my own; at it's cheapest I've seen it retail around USD $17, at it's priciest I've seen close to USD $23. If the dinky looking light wand didn't work, $23 would have been a nice filling meal out with friends! As my face was erupting during that time of the month, I coincidentally found a $10 off manufactures coupon for the Neutrogena Light Therapy range and CVS also sent me a 25% off coupon...I beelined right to the store. After coupons and taxes, I ended up only paying $8.77 for the light therapy stick. Score!

After falling in love with the CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion, I couldn't help but get another backup since I had coupons a plenty (40% off + $2 manufacturer's coupon...$16.49 to $8.77). I am not in dire need of another moisturizer right now but it is more reassuring to know I have a backup on hand just in case one of the newer products doesn't work out. Plus, when I do use the PM lotion, one bottle only lasts me around a month. The bottles in reserve wouldn't sit and rot in my stash drawer, ever.

My wallet is in a dangerous place after I rediscovered Liah Yoo, who also introduced me to the Gothamist on YouTube. Their skincare philosophies and expertise can be pretty convincing. Renée recently raved about the CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser for the cooler drier weather and, what else is new, I found myself swimming in coupons and sales again. The entire CeraVe line was on a 25% off sale that week, I had a $2 off $10 CeraVe purchase coupon at CVS, and I remembered the $2 coupon on CeraVe's website. To top of all off, I also had $3 CVS ExtraBucks. A $13.99 purchase became a $3.80 steal.

Maybe acne patches will make a yearly appearance in my haul posts? As with last year, my Aunt stocked up on the dressings when she visited China. I honestly still haven't gone through the stash from her last trip but it never hurts to have these on hand. When the sticker work, it works so well.

Papa Recipe Bombee Honey Pudding Set

lavlilacs Review Papa Recipe Bombee Honeyed Pudding Set

Impulsive online purchases are a huge gamble with luck. Cheap prices and cute packaging draw me in and the next thing I know it arrives on my doorsteps and greets me in reality. My expectations weren't high since Papa Recipe is a new brand to me. Both products in the Papa Recipe Bombee Honey Pudding Set far exceeded any minuscule expectations in their own respects.

lavlilacs Review Papa Recipe Bombee Honeyed Pudding Set packaging

oo35mm 's Description:

Made with all-natural ingredients with honey and propolis as key ingredients directly from mother nature. This pudding type peel off pack removes skin impurities, leaving skin glowy and nourished. The cream is full of nutrients that replenish and hydrate the skin to build a barrier against possible irritants for stronger, healthier skin. Experience the rich nourishment directly from nature with a burst of intense hydration without the heaviness or stickiness!

Directions
Mask
After cleansing, apply over desired areas evenly. Leave on 10-15 minutes, then remove from bottom to top gently. Rinse off any leftover mask and proceed with skincare routine.

Cream
After skin/toner or after using the peel off mask, put a small amount of cream into your hand and apply it around your face. If your skin is especially dry, apply another thin layer of cream.

Ingredients
Mask
WATER, POLYVINYL ALCOHOL, ALCOHOL, 1,2-HEXANEDIOL, HONEY EXACT (10,000PPM), CARICA PAPAYA (PAPAYA) FRUIT EXTRACT, PROPOLIS EXTRACT, BUTYLENE GLYCOL, PENTYLENE GLYCOL, ALLANTOIN, DIPOTASSIUM GLYCYRRHIZATE, MICA, FRAGRANCE, TITANIUM DIOXIDE, CI 77491, TIN OXIDE, GOLD

Cream
WATER, GLYCERETH-26, BUTYLENE GLYCOL, PEG-240/HDI COPOLYMER BIS-DECYLTETRADECETH-20 ETHER, 1,2-HEXANEDIOL, HONEY EXTRACT (10,000PPM), PHELLINUS LINTEUS EXTRACT, CARICA PAPAYA (PAPAYA) FRUIT EXTRACT, PROPOLIS EXTRACT, HYDROLYZED COLLAGEN, HYDROXYETHYL UREA, POLYSORBATE 80, ARGININE, AMMONIUM LACTATE, USNEA BARBATA (LICHEN) EXTRACT, UREA, ZANTHOXYLUM PIPERITUM FRUIT EXTRACT, CARBOMER, PULSATILLA KOREANA EXTRACT, SODIUM HYALURONATE, FRAGRANCE

Mask 60 ml // Cream 25 ml

Papa Recipe (Korean retail): ₩30,000
BeautyBoxKorea: USD $21.48
BBCosmetic: USD $14.99
Amazon: ~USD $13.00
Sasa: ~USD $12.00

lavlilacs Review Papa Recipe Bombee Honeyed Pudding Set products

Honey extract. An effective antibacterial ingredient and wound healer. Raw honey is a source of minerals, vitamins, antioxidants, and enzymes.

Propolis extract. Has antibiotic and anti-inflammatory qualities. Good for wounds and irritations.

Papaya extract. Contains Vitamin A & C and enzymes for exfoliation and antioxidants. Can help clear dead skin and lightening discoloration.

lavlilacs Review Papa Recipe Bombee Honeyed Pudding Set products opened

Packaging

Mask // Comes in a highly flexible plastic tube with a screw on cap. I like the cute designs on the packaging and appreciate the fact that there is negative space to let the transparent tube peak through. I would prefer if the cap was a flip-top one instead.

Cream // Comes in a clear plastic jar. I won't comment too much on it since it is just a sample. It is what it is and serves its job.

The peeling mask only comes in this set, in one size. The cream is available in a larger size.

lavlilacs Review Papa Recipe Bombee Honeyed Pudding Set swatch

Color, Texture, Finish, & Scent

Mask // Clear with some specks of gold-like particles. It is super sticky and tacky. it feels and smells exactly like honey. Thus, the formulation is difficult to spread.

Cream // Transparent gel with a tinge of yellow-orange color. It has an interesting texture: jello-like and keeps its shape after it is scooped out of the jar. But after a while, the indent in the jar will flatten out by itself and the glob that is in your hands will start to become runnier. Just like the mask, it smells just like honey. Unlike the mask, it is neither sticky nor difficult to spread.

lavlilacs Review Papa Recipe Bombee Honeyed Pudding Peel Off Facial Mask after

How I Apply

Mask // Spread an even layer across my entire face (avoid eyebrows and hairlines) after cleansing. Thin layer dries in 10-15 mins. Thick layer dries in 25-30+ mins. I found that I waste a tad less if I directly squeezing the product onto my face and spread versus putting it on my finger and then applying.

Cream // Generously scoop some onto my palms. Rub it between my hands to liquify. Gently smooth throughout face and pat cream in.

lavlilacs Review Papa Recipe Bombee Honeyed Pudding Peel Off Facial Mask after full face closeup

Thoughts & Recommendations

Mask // Compared to all the other peel-off masks (charcoal, egg, Japanese, Korean, etc.) I have tried, this Honeyed Pudding Peel Off Facial Mask is unbelievably easy to remove. It is the first peel-off product that my pain intolerant skin can handle. The mask comes off in one piece as long as I wait patiently for the entire thing to dry. I didn't experience any pain as the dried mask is very elastic and soft. My skin isn't red or irritated afterward either.

However! I am not sure if it did much for removing deep-rooted impurities. It seems to pick up the most superficial layer on my face. But the most stubborn dry patches, especially around my mouth, always remain. My pores also don't look less clogged. While my skin feels softer after the mask, it definitely doesn't feel "nourished" like the product promised...a moisturizer is needed as a followup.

Cream // For something that is formulated with honey, I thought it would be pretty tacky and heavy. Kudos to the brand for formulating and accurately describing the Honey Pudding Cream as something that leaves no heaviness or stickiness. The cream sinks into my skin quickly and leaves it feeling plump, moisturized, hydrated, nourish, etc. You name it, I felt it at one point! I think the cream set a new mark in the moisturizing game for me.

Albeit, I did try the small jar of cream out mostly in the humid and hot summery NYC days...I wonder how it would fair in the cooler and drier weather? Even with the humidity, the cream does tend to lose its magical touch throughout the day on the driest areas of my face (i.e. chin and surrounding lower jaw area).

I would very highly consider repurchasing this if I am looking for a peel-off mask in my routine or want a highly nourishing cream. BUT I am not sure if it is worth paying the original retail prices (₩30,000 - close to USD $30) for the set. I would have a serious mental debate even if the set was ~USD $20. The mask was nice but not that nice. Although I really enjoyed using the cream a lot more than the mask, a regular full-sized jar of it costs ₩56,000 - close to USD $56...with that tag it is a pretty luxe product. If I never find a better performing & more affordable moisturizer or I find that specific cream available for a lower price (~USD $30, plus or minus) I would come running back at full speed to this moisturizer.
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