[SKINCARE] Commonlabs Vitamin E Mirco-Needle Spot Cream 10ml

Product's Overview:

Ingredients:

Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Extract, Water, Butylene Glycol, Hydrolyzed Sponge, Glycerin, Cetearyl Alcohol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Glyceryl Stearate, Beeswax, Cetyl Alcohol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract, Sorbitan Olivate, Palmitic Acid, Stearic Acid, Sodium Carbomer, Panthenol, Betaine, Allantoin, Xanthan Gum, Cetearyl Glucoside, Sodium Hyaluronate, Disodium EDTA, Pinus Densiflora Leaf Extract, Beta-Glucan, Citrus Junos Fruit Extract, Madecassoside, Tocopherol, Artemisia Annua Extract

(from Commonlabs Official Website)*

⭐Ingredients Breakdown:

Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Extract - 54%, anti-bacterial, anti-microbial, sebum control; 

Butylene Glycol - Skin conditioning, moisturising, humectant, increase penetration of other ingredients;

Hydrolyzed Sponge - Spongilla Lacustris, micro-needle to treat acne, wrinkles & freckles;

Glycerin - Humectant that pulls moisture from environment/2nd layer of skin (dermis) to the top layer of skin (epidermis), moisturising;

Cetearyl Alcohol - Emollient, soothes skin, softens the skin, product thickener & stabiliser, heals dry skin;

Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride - Anti-oxidant, emollient that smoothens the skin, preservative;

Cetyl Ethylhexanoate - Softens smoothens & soothes skin, improve product spreadibility, improve dry skin;

Glyceryl Stearate - Softens & smoothens the skin, product thickener, prevent moisture loss from skin by forming a barrier at the top layer of skin;

Beeswax - Skin protective layer, humectant, natural exfoliator gently remove dead skin cells, softens & hydrates the skin;

Cetyl Alcohol - Fatty acids, product texture enhancer & thickener, emollient, emulsifier, anti-bacterial, prevent moisture loss from skin, soothes & heals dry skin;

1,2-Hexanediol - Moisture-binding humectant & preservative;

Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract - Green tea, anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, calms & soothes skin, protect against collagen loss & skin discoloration;

Centella Asiatica Extract - Soothes, calms any irritation of skin, improve skin hydration, anti-bacterial, speed up healing of skin cell & collagen production;

Sorbitan Olivate - Olive oil fatty acids plus Sorbital (dehydrated sugar), moisturising, softens the skin, provide smooth finish;

Palmitic Acid - Derived from Palm Oil, emollient, forms a layer on surface of skin to prevent water loss;

Stearic Acid - Saturated fatty acid, softens & smoothens the skin, emollient, strengthen skin barrier;

Sodium Carbomer - Synthetic polymer, product thickener & stabiliser, forms a film on product;

Panthenol - Vitamin B5, humectant, hydrating, anti-inflammatory;

Betaine - Increase hydration, protect skin barrier, enhance product's texture;

Allantoin - Comfrey plant's root, soothes & protects the skin, help with skin healing by stimulating growth tissues, reduce redness & pigmentation;

Xanthan Gum - Product texture enhancer & thickener, ingredient binder, emulsifier;

Cetearyl Glucoside - Coconut/Corn Oil, emulsifier, stabilise oil & water, provide smooth finish;

Sodium Hyaluronate - Hydrophilic (can bind with water), attracts moisture in skin cells from dermis (2nd layer of skin) to epidermis (top layer of skin), increase skin hydration, better hydration for skin than Hyaluronic Acid as it has smaller molecular weight;

Disodium EDTA - Maintain product's consistency, pH level, odor & texture;

Pinus Densiflora Leaf Extract - Pine leaf, Anti-oxidant, anti-fungal, anti-microbial;

Beta-Glucan - Humectant that pulls moisture from environment/2nd layer of skin (dermis) to the top layer of skin (epidermis), prevent hydration loss;

Citrus Junos Fruit Extract - Yuzu Lemon/Citron, anti-oxidant, promote cell rejuvenation, skin brightening;

Madecassoside - Centella Asiatica plant, reduce free radical damage, anti-redness & scarring, reduce itchiness;

Tocopherol - Vitamin E, anti-oxidant, prevent free radical damage & absorbs UV rays, product stabiliser, skin conditioning;

Artemisia Annua Extract - Mugwort/Sweet Wormwood, anti-inflammatory, skin healing, repair skin barrier, reduce redness, provide skin hydration;

First Impression & Application: ★★★★★

Can't see the microneedles even though I can feel them being there

Squeezing out from the dispenser gently (the amount I use per spot is shown in the picture above), dispensing once per time for each spot.

I usually use the applicator straight away on my pimples that doesn't have a head/yellowish pus or those that are underneath the skin but I can feel them flaring up. I don't apply until they're full absorbed, but instead, leaving a white film on top because my pimple healed faster this way;

For those pimples that are almost matured/have yellowish pus & ready to pop (I know it's very tempting & I did it most of the time, but please don't pop it yourself with your fingers as it may leave a scar if you applied too much pressure/not taking good care of it afterwards), I'll dispense the product on my fingers & slowly dab them on each spot. Same as the 1st method, I don't glide them on my skin until the product's fully absorbed.

After some time, the product will dry up itself, leaving a slight white-ish color on your spot.

Pros:

• Fully packed with a lot of soothing ingredients
• Flattened & calmed down the inflamed & underneath pimples very effectively
• Small pimples will be almost gone to appearance the next day
• Fragrance free
• A little amount goes a long way

Cons:

• Hard to tackle the amount to use, may apply too much pressure & dispense too much product
• May not be suitable for very sensitive skin due to its micro-needling technology
• Leaves a dark mark once pimple is gone
• Takes a longer time to see result compared to other spot treatments

Final Thoughts & Conclusion:

Not sure whether the spiky stuff are micro-needles as it stings slightly to touch

Because it's a push motion dispenser + applicator, you need to use a few times to get used to how much pressure you need to put on for the amount you need for your targeted spots. If too much pressure, you might need to use your fingers & apply on the other spots. I usually pump once for 1 spot & also without blending all the products in, leaving a white cream film (I don't mind it because I only put in on my PM routine before bed). Remember to put on sunscreen the next day as your skin will be quite sensitive to sun exposure due to the micro-needling.

The micro-needles (Hydrolyzed Sponge from the ingredient list) is claimed by Commonlabs to help the product (Tea Tree Leaf Extract) penetrate deeper into the skin & treat the underlying bacteria in the acne/pimple. Due to its micro-needling ingredient, you can't use this cream every day, but every 2-3 days because Commonlabs stated that it'll stay inside your skin for around 70 hours after application. They have their patented ingredient: Gesolza - Sweet Wormwood (Artemisa Annua), Citron (Yuzu Lemon) & Pine Leaf (Pinus Densiflora) , as well as 54% Tea Tree Leaf Extract & Vitamin E (Tocopherol) to treat the acne problem.

I try to avoid lips & undereyes area because the stinging feeling caused by the micro-needling will irritate those sensitive areas. Sometimes I'll apply with only fingers after dispensing the amount that I wanted. I can always feel the little tingling on my fingers & skin once I glide it onto the spots on my face. If your skin is very sensitive, I recommend use dabbing motion, or just apply with the applicator, dispense every time you need to use for 1 spot.

On the next day, my inflamed pimples are usually flattened & no more redness, but still painful to touch; underlying pimples are not painful to touch/red; small pimples are almost hard to be noticed anymore. Then, I'll either go with water cleansing or a gentle cleanser in my AM routine depending on my skin hydration that day. Make sure to run the water on your face, then only starts rubbing your face with your hands/cleanser, as you'll feel a pulling & stinging sensation on your face caused by the micro-needles. Usually if I wash with cleanser, the micro-needle feelings are little to none anymore; whereas with water, when I go through my skincare routine, I can still feel it sitting inside of the skin where I spot treated.

After double cleansing in my PM routine (I usually only have eyebrow product & sunscreen daily), the micro-needle tingling are no longer there anymore, but I'm not sure whether it's still there in my inner layer of skin.

On the days when I don't use this spot treatment (because you can only use every 2-3 days), I'll go back to my usual The Inkey List Succinic Acid & the underlying pimples will usually flare up again, which I'm not sure why because my pimples are always calmed down when using either both of the 2 products alone.

I tried not using any spot treatments on the gap days, I don't see any improvements on my pimples, but if I use other spot treatments, it worsen the condition. After the gap days, when I use back this spot cream, overnight, I can see all my pimples are calmed down, redness reduced & no more inflammation. Putting a pimple patch on top of them afterwards & acting as a micro-dart needle patches, doesn't do a much difference compared to using the spot cream alone.

The downside about this spot cream is that it may be very irritating to you if you have a very sensitive skin. Also, it leaves the skin with dark spots after the pimple has healed. Don't continue using this to treat it, but instead, use Niacinamie, Vitamin C, Snail Mucin or Retinol products to treat the marks before it's too late.

Price vs. Value: ★★★★★

RM14 on April 2021 HUGE Sale, so I bought 2 even though I never tried it before (but heard a few good reviews about it)

(Original price: RM57.40/RM80+)

5 months after, I need to pump twice to get the product out when it's almost used till the end

There's still products visible in the bottle, trying to figure out how to get it out

Repurchase? ★★★★★

Definitely especially there's sales

Where to Get It On Your Hands:

Shopee Commonlabs Official Shop RM80.36

Shopee Commonlabs Directly Shipped from Korea RM78.84

Lazada Commonlabs Official Shop RM78

Commonlabs Official Website RM57.40

Shopee K-beauty Products Shop from Korea BeautyBabe RM43.90

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Disclaimer: All the products are purchased with my own hard-earned money and every photos are strictly owned by me. The opinions are on my own, unbiasedly & truthfully, but it could vary depending on individual. I'm not an expert in any field nor a licensed individual. Every review is based on my personal preference & for entertainment purpose only. What works for me may not work for you because skincare is personal. I have dry-combination skin (oily T-zone, dry U-zone) but it doesn't mean that you'll have the same experience as me if you have the same skin type as we have different lifestyle and living environment. Try everything at your own risk.

*Kindly refer to the packaging for the latest & most accurate ingredient list when you purchase the product.

[SKINCARE] The Ordinary Peeling Solution AHA 30% + BHA 2% 30ml

Product's Overview:

Directions of use
which you can refer to The Ordinary's Website too for the detailed version

Ingredients:

Gloopy consistency

Glycolic Acid, Aqua (Water), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Water, Sodium Hydroxide, Daucus Carota Sativa Extract, Propanediol, Cocamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Salicylic Acid, Lactic Acid, Tartaric Acid, Citric Acid, Panthenol, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Tasmannia Lanceolata Fruit/Leaf Extract, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Xanthan gum, Polysorbate 20, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Ethylhexylglycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol.

⭐Ingredients Breakdown:

AHA - Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, Tartaric Acid, Citric Acid;

BHA - Salicylic Acid;

Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Water - Aloe Vera, skin soother;

Sodium Hydroxide - Maintain pH level of the product;

Daucus Carota Sativa Extract - Wild carrot extract, anti-oxidant, rich in Beta-Carotene (Vitamin A), Vitamin C & E;

Propanediol - Increase absorption into the skin & provide moisturisation;

Cocamidopropyl Dimethylamine - Anti-static agent, fatty acids from coconut oil;

Panthenol - Vitamin B5, anti-inflammation & provides moisture to the skin;

Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer - A hyaluronic acid form that can penetrate into skin easily;

Tasmannia Lanceolata Fruit/Leaf Extract - Tasmanian pepper berry, Soothing, anti-inflammation;

Glycerin - Humectant, retains skin moisture;

Pentylene Glycol - Hydrating, solvent, texture enhancer & preservative;

Ethylhexylglycerin - Hydration booster, preservative.

First Impression & Experience: ★★★★☆

Dark red color solution

Make sure the face & hands are totally dry before using the product. I use one whole dropper amount for my whole face - one drop for each area (forehead, nose, both cheeks & chin), avoiding neck, eyes & mouth area. Remember, don't touch the dropper to your skin. Once apply throughout the face, a little lather will form (most probably caused by Cocamidopropyl Dimethylamine from the ingredient list), but after some time, it's gone & the solution remain its dark red color on the skin.

White later forms when applied

It stings my whole face once I applied it, then slowly it feels tingling & itchy. I feel like scratching them to ease the itch, but I held back & tried to bear the itch. After a minute, the stinging & itch disappears. I only use for 5 minutes for the first time. When washing it off, the texture is like very gloopy, need to wash a few times to get rid of the feeling. After washing it off, I can feel the squeaky feeling on my face when I touch it, then I'll always follow-up with a hydrating/soothing sheet mask to give my skin extra hydration.

I did the chemical peel every other week, because I have dry-combination skin.

Pros:

• Smoothens skin texture
• Exfoliates the top layer of skin
• Reduces the sebum & blackheads on the nose if used consistently
• Affordable price, due to next point,
• A little goes a long way

Cons:

• Not for acid beginner
• Not suitable for sensitive skin people/if you have damaged skin barrier
• Not for extremely dry to dry skin
• Slow result but also a Pro if you use it consistently
• Broke me out sometimes

Final Thoughts & Conclusion:

I used this chemical peeling solution only after I've used the Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin Drop (check out the blog post here) because it's stated that this product is too strong & might not be suitable for acid beginner. Some user who've used acid previously, their skin may not tolerate or like this peeling solution too. So always patch test on your arms or back of your neck before using an acid, especially chemical peel.

It's a chemical exfoliation & a mask, so I use it only in my PM routine before bed (which is also recommended by The Ordinary). For the 1st time, I've used 5 minutes. 2nd time, I used 7 minutes. 3rd time, I used 10 minutes. 10 minutes is the maximum time you can leave this solution on your face, as more than recommended would further increase the irritation. It's a wash-off mask, not a serum that you should leave on your face. Avoid using on wounded or pimples as it may sting & further irritate those areas. Also, I only use it once a week, or sometimes once per every 2 weeks, even after using for almost a year (recommended by The Ordinary for not more than twice a week). I usually will do a hydrating or soothing sheet mask afterwards, or when the days I'm too lazy, I'll soak my sponge cotton pads with hydrating/calming effect toner & put it around my face for 5-10 minutes.

After using for a month, only doing for every other week, then to every week, I can see that my blackheads & sebum on my T-zone slowly decreases. This chemical peel doesn't give the rapid result, like those clay masks that you can see your blackheads are gone after washing the mask away, but with consistent use, you'll see the result. Also, I don't use any retinol or Vitamin C after the chemical peel in the skincare routine afterwards & for the next day's AM routine because my skin barrier can be damaged easily with chemical exfoliation + strong acid.. It's also compulsory to wear a sunscreen for the week after you've used this mask as this chemical peeling solution consists of both AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid) & BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acid) that exfoliates your skin & make your skin sensitive to the sun exposure (even though it's recommended to use sunscreen daily no matter where you are or what you've used). However, this product sometimes give me a new break out the next day when I woke up, pretty sure it's not the sheet mask's problem, most probably it helps to remove the layer of the dead skin & brought up the underlying pimple...

It's an effective chemical exfoliation that you should try, even though the hype on TikTok about this product is too overrated (the fact that most people trying to gain fame by misusing the product & not following the directions given by the company). You can give it a try if you've tried an acid before, but always do a patch test first before using it as everyone's skin react differently to different acids even though you may have the same skin type/living in the same climate/country as me.

However, do not use it if you feel like your skin barrier is damaged or like me, your outer corner of lips is irritated/flaking. Even if you're not applying around the area, when you wash off the products around the other areas of your face, it'll still drip to the irritated area. Also, do not use it if you have inflamed pimples thinking that you need to exfoliate them for faster recovery, it will only worsen the condition, causing more redness & takes longer time to heal them. TRUST ME. You'll never want to undergo that period because I've been there.... Instead, use AHA/BHA/PHA/LHA of low percentage or concentration that gently exfoliates those areas' top layers of skin & unclog your pores.

I've tried using the product one last time after it has past a month of the PAO, it still feels the same & doesn't further irritate my skin. 

Price vs. Value: ★★★★★

30ml RM55.80, opened for a year, only use once per 1-2 weeks,

PAO (Period-After-Opening) is 12 months, but after the PAO, still have more than half of the bottle left

Repurchase? ★★☆☆☆

2★: Effective chemical peel, great result with consistent use;

3☆: Too strong for the skin; Sometimes broke me out; There's more clay masks in the market that's not drying at all now & does the similar job to the skin.

Where to Get It On Your Hands:

^Amazon The Ordinary Shop US$14.25 = RM59.24

The Ordinary Official Website US$9 = RM37.41

Shopee K-beauty Products Shop Directly Shipped from Hong Kong RM55.80

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^affiliated store link, which I will earn a little commission if you use the link I provided to purchase the product

Disclaimer: All the products are purchased with my own hard-earned money and every photos are strictly owned by me. The opinions are on my own, unbiasedly & truthfully, but it could vary depending on individual. I'm not an expert in any field nor a licensed individual. Every review is based on my personal preference & for entertainment purpose only. What works for me may not work for you because skincare is personal. I have dry-combination skin (oily T-zone, dry U-zone) but it doesn't mean that you'll have the same experience as me if you have the same skin type as we have different lifestyle and living environment. Try everything at your own risk.

*Kindly refer to the packaging for the latest & most accurate ingredient list when you purchase the product.

[SKINCARE] The Ordinary Ascorbic Acid 8% + Alpha Arbutin 2% 30ml

Product's Overview:

Product Description in Korean

Product description in English

Light-sealed glass bottle

Batch code

Ingredients:

Propanediol, Ascorbic Acid, Alpha-Arbutin

*(from The Ordinary website)

⭐Star Ingredients:

Propanediol - Humectant (draws water), Solvent (dissolves the cream into skin) & Emollient (locks in moisture)

L-Ascorbic Acid 8% - Antioxidant that brightens the skin tone & fight the free radicals damages

Purified Alpha Arbutin 2% - Reduce dark spots/hyperpigmentation & improve uneven skin tone

First Impression & Experience: ★★☆☆☆

The glass packaging is light-sealed to prevent the product from exposing to the light/sunlight & cause oxidisation. Like all of The Ordinary's products, it came with a pipette dipped into the serum & I have to squeeze the top of the pump to dispense 2 drops of the product on my palms (amount enough for my face & neck). I use only in the AM routine for the 1st month, then twice a day after 2nd month onwards.

The serum is transparent, has a weird smell that's not heavy. Once rubbed between both palms & apply on face, I can feel the oil texture in the product. The face feels a little warm sensation at first when applied, then slowly it absorbs. However, it doesn't feel lightweight at all even though I have dry skin & my palms are quite oily afterwards.

Pros:

• Lightens dark spot
• Claimed by The Ordinary (written on packaging): Improve hyperpigmentation, dark spots, uneven skin tone & signs of aging

Cons:

• Irritates my skin
• Excessive break out every time after using
• T-zone feels greasy after half day without any excessive activity
• Too short PAO (Period-After-Opening) -  Only 6 months

Final Thoughts & Conclusion:

It's my second The Ordinary product (check out The Ordinary Peeling Solution AHA 30% + BHA 2% here), my second Ascorbic Acid serum, 3% higher than my first one I've used - Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin Drop (check out the blog post here), with an extra brightening ingredient - Alpha Arbutin.

On first month, I use as 1st step of my skincare routine on my dry face after cleansing & also normal serum step before moisturiser from 2nd month onwards. However, rather than seeing reduction of hyperpigmentation, the spots on my face that should be lightened by it, started to break out & it grows bigger over time. As claimed by The Ordinary website, the serum is an anhydrous serum, so the skin may feel oily afterwards, which may be the reason why I feel like my moisturiser isn't absorbing well into my skin & products don't go well after the serum is applied.

On the 4th month of using this serum, because of the side effect I see in my skin, I only use it in the AM routine; While in my PM routine, I started to use Cosrx Dual Radiance Snail Essence as it has Niacinamide + Snail Mucin, hoping that my break out will be lessen & the spots will be lightened.

On my 6th month onwards, I tried applying after moisturiser, before sunscreen, the break outs starts to decrease, I can see some spots being lightened slightly, but it still doesn't stop the break out completely.

I'm pretty sure it's not purging as it's not an exfoliant/retinol, also it has been breaking out for more than 3 months since I used the serum. The thing that changed about this method is that it doesn't affect my skincare product afterwards from sliding & not absorbing into the skin. Sunscreen is still the last step of my routine.

6th month

    

**There's a few methods you can apply this serum:

1. Your first step of skincare routine after cleansing: Before toner & moisturiser. Ensure that your face's completely dry to prevent the product from penetrating deeper into my skin & caused higher risk of irritation. Then, continue with a toner, moisturiser & sunscreen (AM routine).

2. Serum step: After toner, before moisturiser & sunscreen (AM routine), make sure that your face's not overly wet, only slightly damp when applying the serum (As mentioned previously, this caused my moisturiser not absorbing into my skin well, so I tried method 3👇🏼)

3. After moisturiser, before sunscreen (My skin suits this method better & it caused lesser irritation and less break out)

4. Buffering: Mix it into your creams (recommended for sensitive skin).

**Remember don't touch the dropper on your face as it may contaminate the serum when it's dipped back into it. Sunscreen is compulsory after applying any Ascorbic Acid product as your skin will be very sensitive to the sunlight.

The dropper cap head has the oxidised product
because every time after I apply on face then close the cap,
so it's better to drop the amount you want on your palms,
then close the cap before applying onto your face

The Period-After-Opening (PAO) on the packaging is stated 6 months. However, after 6 months, I still have 1/4 of the product left, but the solution's still in good condition like I first opened it & no oxidisation occurs. On my 8th month, I only realised I've opened the product for more than the PAO & stopped using it immediately, because I don't see any good result with it, but only constant breaking out, so there's no reason to continue using it & risk the further irritation it may cause to my skin after the PAO.

.

I tried this serum because I used to thought that the higher the percentage, the better & faster the result is. Also I thought that I can tolerate 3% higher of concentration than my previous Ascorbic Acid serum, as long as it's not over 20%, but it turns out very irritated to my face & it broke me out badly ever since (I never broke out so much in my life, even pre-menstrual cycle). Most probably it's because this serum doesn't have any skin soothing ingredients like Centella Asiatica, like the Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin Drop (check out the blog post here).

Lesson learnt, I shall just stop at 5% (or the same product), or use Vitamin C derivatives serums/creams that can also do the job, has slower result, less irritation & inflammation, also can be worry-free about the product being oxidised & not having to finish it up quickly. Always try every active ingredients at your own risk & understand your skin first before switching it to a higher concentration!!

Otherwise, try retinol, which can also do the job, with a few more extra benefits & recommended more by dermatologists than Ascorbic Acid. It may take more time to see the results (4 weeks onwards), but after that when your skin's used to it & it doesn't have any irritation since then, you'll thank yourself for being patient when you see the results on your face. Retinol (as well as Retinoid & Retinoic Acid) requires more patience than any other active ingredients, as you have to use only once a week & slowly work up the game. I'm currently trying CeraVe's Skin Resurfacing Retinol Serum, will blog about it once I've emptied it & link it here.

❗ NOTE: Any percentage of Ascorbic Acid from 1% to 20% is considered effective. However, this doesn't mean that the higher the concentration, the better or faster you'll see the result. This rule applies on all active ingredients. A higher percentage can also mean higher risk of irritation. Remember to put on sunscreen after using any Ascorbic Acid/Vitamin C/anti-oxidant actives as it'll make your skin more sensitive to the sun even though it acts as a very effective anti-oxidant during the day (although it's advised that you should wear sunscreen daily no matter what skincare routine you have). Also, avoid using any Ascorbic Acid products with your retinols, after any AHA/BHA or any forms of chemical exfoliation in the same routine as your skin's still sensitive after the period ❗ 

Price vs. Value: ★★☆☆☆

30ml RM60 bought on June 2020,

8 months usage,

PAO only 6 months, so I stopped using even though it still has 1/4 left

Repurchase? ☆☆☆☆☆

No, considering the break outs it has caused to my skin. It has never been breaking out so much before in my whole skincare journey. It might either be the higher percentage of Ascorbic Acid, the Alpha Arbutin or both combined that irritates my skin. Either way, I wouldn't repurchase this product anymore.

Where to Get It On Your Hands:

Shopee K-beauty Products Shop Directly Shipped From Korea RM63

The Ordinary Official Website US$12 = RM49.88

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^affiliated Amazon store link, which I will earn a little commission if you use the link I provided to purchase the product

Disclaimer: All the products are purchased with my own hard-earned money and every photos are strictly owned by me. The opinions are on my own, unbiasedly & truthfully, but it could vary depending on individual. I'm not an expert in any field nor a licensed individual. Every review is based on my personal preference & for entertainment purpose only. What works for me may not work for you because skincare is personal. I have dry-combination skin (oily T-zone, dry U-zone) but it doesn't mean that you'll have the same experience as me if you have the same skin type as we have different lifestyle and living environment. Try everything at your own risk.

*Kindly refer to the packaging for the latest & most accurate ingredient list when you purchase the product.

[SKINCARE] Illiyoon Ceramide Ato Lotion 350ml/528ml

Product's Overview:

Seal sticker at the lid

Product details (plastic in bottle for pressure pump)
+ ingredient list
in Korean language

Repurchase 2nd time, straight away bought 3 bottles RM125.90
from Shopee k-beauty shop direct shipping from Korea

Ingredients:

Water, Glycerin, Propanediol, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Cyclopentasiloxane, Hydrogenated Poly(C6-14 Olefin), Cyclohexasiloxane, Dimethicone, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Diisostearyl Malate, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, C14-22 Alcohols, Arachidyl Alcohol, Stearic Acid, Glyceryl Stearate, Palmitic Acid, Behenyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Caprylate, Butylene Glycol, C12-20 Alkyl Glucoside, Panax Ginseng Root Water, Arachidyl Glucoside, Disodium EDTA, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sorbitan Isostearate, Polysorbate 60, Bupleurum Falcatum Root Extract, Angelica Acutiloba Root Extract, Ophiopogon Japonicus Root Extract, Myristic Acid, Hydroxypropyl Bispalmitamide MEA (Ceramide PC-104 32.7ppm), Mannitol, Lauric Acid, Acrylates/Ammonium Methacrylate Copolymer, Perilla Ocymoides Seed Extract, Cholesterol, Silica, Tocopherol

(from YesStyle)*

Purified Water, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Shea Butter, Cyclopentasiloxane, Biosaccharide Gum-1, Hydrogenated Poly (C6-14 Olefin), Clohexasiloxane, Lactobacillus/Soybean Ferment Extract, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Perilla Frutescens Sprout Extract, Magnolia Kobus Flower Extract, Hydroxypropyl Bispalmitamide MEA (Ceramide PC-104 32.75ppm), Mannitol, C12-20 Alkyl Glucoside, C14-22 Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate, Glyceryl Caprylate, Dimethicone, Diisostearyl Malate, Lauric Acid, Myristic Acid, Behenyl Alcohol, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Stearic Acid, Silica, Arachidyl Glucoside, Arachidyl Alcohol, Acrylates/Ammonium Methacrylate Copolymer, Ethylhexylglycerin, Cholesterol, Palmitic Acid, Propanediol, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Disodium EDTA

(from StyleKorean)*

⭐Ingredients Breakdown

Glycerin - Moisturising humectant, pulls hydration from deeper layer of skin/air to outer layer, works best with occlusives (moisturising agent that traps moisture from losing from skin)

Propanediol - Humectant, solvent, emollient, provides moisture to skin & retain moisture loss;

Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter - Vitamin E & catechin, retains moisture for dry & irritated skin;

Cyclopentasiloxane - Product texture enhancer, improve smoothness of application, retain skin's moisture loss;

Biosaccharide Gum-1 - Polysaccharide from fermented plants, moisturising, skin soother, softens & smoothens the skin, moisture-binding film;

Hydrogenated Poly(C6-14 Olefin) - Skin conditioning, emollient, control products' viscosity;  

Dimethicone - Silicone-based polymer, skin protectant, improve skin softness;

Cetyl Ethylhexanoate - Derived from Cetyl Alcohol from coconut or palm oil, Softens smoothens & soothes skin, improve product spreadibility, improve dry skin;

Diisostearyl Malate - From Malic Acid & Isostearyl Alcohol, emollient, skin conditioner, product thickener;

C14-22 Alcohols - Mixture of synthetic fatty alcohols & 14 to 22 carbon in alkyl chain, emulsion stabiliser, moisturises skin;

Arachidyl Alcohol - Emollient, thickening agent, softens & smoothens the skin, occlusive agent;

Stearic Acid - Saturated fatty acid, softens & smoothens the skin, emollient, strengthen skin barrier;

Glyceryl Stearate - Softens & smoothens the skin, product thickener, prevent moisture loss from skin by forming a barrier at the top layer of skin;

Behenyl Alcohol - Derived from plant, product thickener, improve smoothness of application, emulsifier;

Glyceryl Caprylate - Anti-microbial, boost preservations, co-emulsifier, stabilise oil-in-water emulsion, regulate skin moisture;

Butylene Glycol - Skin conditioning, softens the skin, improve skin texture;

C12-20 Alkyl Glucoside - Derived from vegetable, emulsifying agent, works with C14-22 Alcohols;

Lactobacillus/Soybean Ferment Extract - Moisturising, brightens up the skin, anti-irritant, skin soother, reduce irritation, improve skin barrier;

Panax Ginseng Root Water - Boost skin hydration, reduce wrinkle appearance, smoothen uneven skin tone, decrease skin roughness;

Perilla Frutescens Sprout Extract - Anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, moisturising;

Magnolia Kobus Flower Extract - Anti-oxidant, skin soother;

Bupleurum Falcatum Root Extract - Chinese medicine plant, anti-oxidant, skin soother;

Angelica Acutiloba Root Extract - Japanese Angelica, skin brightener, even out skin texture;

Ophiopogon Japonicus Root Extract - Lily family plant/snake's beard, rich in saccharides to hydrate the skin, boost skin moisture retainability;

Hydroxypropyl Bispalmitamide MEA (Ceramide PC-104 32.7ppm) - Lipid molecules, improve skin barrier, emollient, moisturising, retain skin moisture;

Mannitol - Derived from plants or lab-made sugar, moisture binder, skin conditioning, ingredients binder, humectant;

Lauric Acid - Fatty acids derived from coconut, palm kernel oil or milk, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory;

Myristic Acid - Emulsifier, texture enhancer, retain skin hydration, surfactant that washed away oil stably, high rate of absorption into the skin;

Silica - Silicone dioxide, enhance penetration of ingredients, product thickener;

Arachidyl Glucoside - From Arachidyl Alcohol & Glucose, Emulsifier, retain moisture loss, promotes skin hydration, softens the skin, leaves matte finish;

Acrylates/Ammonium Methacrylate Copolymer - Water resistant, forms a film on the skin, works with Butylene Glycol and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLS) to adhere & coerce to the skin;

Ethylhexylglycerin - Mild humectant, softens the skin, improve skin hydration, preservative;

Perilla Ocymoides Seed Extract - Anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, calms down & soothes the skin, good for dry skin, its seed oil reduce clogged pores in dry skin;

Cholesterol - A lipid, skin conditioner, emulsifier, emollient, improve skin barrier, improve moisture content, improve skin elasticity; 

Palmitic Acid - Derived from Palm Oil, emollient, forms a layer on surface of skin to prevent water loss;

Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer - Stabilizer, texture enhancer, thickener of product;

Disodium EDTA - Maintain product's consistency, pH level, odor & texture;

Tocopherol - Vitamin E, anti-oxidant, prevent free radical damage & absorbs UV rays, product stabiliser, skin conditioning;

First Impression & Application: ★★★★★

Dispense a certain amount of product by pressing the pump, apply it on the body/face. I usually use as my whole body before my bedtime, after my shower. It's a lightweight & non-sticky, medium consistency lotion, that's not occlusive. It has ingredients that can soothe the skin & heal it at the same time.

Pros:

• Light-weight, fast absorption & non-sticky
• Improve skin barrier
• Provides hydration + moisturisation (ceramide)
• Non-irritating to itchy/red skin
• No fragrance

Cons:

• Slight oiliness
• Not enough hydration & moisturisation for extremely dry/cracking/itchy skin

Final Thoughts & Conclusion:

Illiyoon (Chi: 一理潤), a dermatology focused brand targeting to provide moisture (潤) to the skin. It has the brand's patented Ceramide Skin Complex, encapsulated ceramide to heal the skin barrier & maintain its healthiness (3.27ppm = 0.00337%). The brand's products are also 8 free: Animal-derived ingredients, mineral oil, artificial color, fragrance, Paraben (personally I don't really mind paraben as it acts as a preservative for the product), PEG Surfactant, Triethanolamine, Imidazolidinyl Urea.

Ceramide Ato Lotion, Ceramide, you get it because of the ingredient list has their patented Ceramide. What about Ato? Ato is a common word used in Korean skincare, marketed to be sensitive skin friendly. Ato came from the word Atopic a.k.a. atopic dermatitis, like eczema, rosacea, contact dermatitis and more skin concerns. When you see the word ATO in Korean skincare/body care products, it usually means that it's suitable for sensitive skin. But be sure to check the ingredient list for any triggering ingredients for your skin (not everyone react the same to the ingredients that trigger your irritation/inflammation. E.g. Essential oil may be an irritant for some people, but some may not be affected at all).

Looking at the ingredient list & using my 3rd 528ml bottle already, I can say that it's a very sensitive-skin friendly product. For the first time, I bought the 350ml one (linked below), even though the bigger volume one is so much more worth it.

Usually if I have itchy/red skin, when I put on a lotion, it'll always be more itchy & red. But this Ceramide Ato Lotion, never caused any itchiness, even provide hydration & healed the skin from being further irritated the next day. I applied this lotion to my whole body from shoulder to feet (2-3 pumps), I'll feel slight oiliness to touch once it has dried off, but it doesn't bother me much because I'm going to bed anyways.

It can be used on both face & body, but I've never tried putting it on my face at all. WILL UPDATE ABOUT IT AFTER I'VE TRIED IT

- Razor burn mark after putting the lotion for 1 day -

    

- Razor burn after putting the lotion for 3 days -

    

As shown in the pictures above, it really does heal my skin when I have scratches or razor burns, but of course, the effect is not immediate & it takes time.

However, when I had extremely dry & cracked skin, especially on my fingers, it doesn't provide the adequate amount of moisturisation. It did soothes & smoothen the skin at first, but it doesn't lock in & moisturise it for long, due to it's not a very thick occlusive lotion, like creams. I have to re-apply after it gets dried until I feel it's enough.

A plastic containing the lotion inside the bottle,
squeeze the bottle to apply pressure
& pump up with bottom lotion when you reached to almost the last,
usually the lotion will come up.
Cutting off the bottle, there's only left with a little amount.

Previously, I've been using Vaseline Intensive Care Aloe Vera's lotion for many years, that has been preventing my skin from being irritated, but this heals my skin so much better than Illiyoon Ceramide Ato Lotion. For occlusion, Vaseline's did a better job than the latter.

Price vs. Value: ★★★★☆

350ml RM40-50 lasts for 1 month

528ml RM50-60 lasts for 2-2.5 months, whole body application

Repurchase? ★★★★★

So far it's one of the best lotion I've used that has healing properties & emptied a lot of bottles

Where to Get It On Your Hands:

K-beauty shop with products directly shipped from Korea Bundle 3 pack RM125.90

K-beauty shop with products directly shipped from Korea 2 350ml RM41.75, 528ml RM56.21

K-beauty shop with products directly shipped from Korea 3 350ml RM57.90

Shop at ^YesStyle with my rewards code JAYNELIM20 to enjoy up to 5% off - 350ml RM155.93

^Amazon Illiyoon Shop 350ml US$18.67 RM78.90

^Amazon AMOREPACIFIC Shop 528ml US$27.80 RM117.48

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^affiliated store link, which I will earn a little commission if you use the link I provided to purchase the product

Disclaimer: All the products are purchased with my own hard-earned money and every photos are strictly owned by me. The opinions are on my own, unbiasedly & truthfully, but it could vary depending on individual. I'm not an expert in any field nor a licensed individual. Every review is based on my personal preference & for entertainment purpose only. What works for me may not work for you because skincare is personal. I have dry-combination skin (oily T-zone, dry U-zone) but it doesn't mean that you'll have the same experience as me if you have the same skin type as we have different lifestyle and living environment. Try everything at your own risk.

*I cannot guarantee that the ingredient list from this website are 100% accurate, as it's not the official ingredient list given by the brand. Kindly refer to the packaging for the latest & most accurate ingredient list when you purchase the product.