Shiseido Synchro Skin Lasting Liquid Foundation Review

This bitch is right off the bat AMAZING! (I can’t wait till the end of this review!) XD It’s that AWESOME!! LOL

To be honest, I was really late with this product and I regretted a lot. I’ve been eyeing on this product even before it was launch but didn’t have enough to buy it. (It’s quite the higher end price: USD45) But when I decided to buy it, Shiseido decided to launch their first cushion, Synchro Skin Glow Cushion Compact from the same ‘Synchro Skin’ series and of course I’m a sucker for cushion foundation. So I went for the cushion first which is a slightly dewy version and instantly felt in love with it. And that’s when I went back and got the Synchro Skin Lasting Liquid Foundation which is a matte version. Later on, Shiseido launched Synchro Skin Glow Luminizing Fluid Foundation which I’ve tried using sample pack but didn’t really liked it.

To be honest, I'm very impressed with the amount of shades this brand has come out with despite being marketed as a Japanese brand which is almost always only catering for fair to medium skin tone. Also, it's very smart in categorizing the shades in Rose (Pink undertone), Neutral (Yellow undertone), Golden (Peachy undertone) for the consumer's convenience in selecting their perfect shade. However, I'm also disappointed by the fact that Malaysia only carries shades up to number 3 in each categories. Not all Malaysians are fair to medium skin tone! We do have people with tan skin too!

   

Packaging:

First impression: Heavy and ‘expensive-looking’ packaging! XD

It comes with a black gradient cap and a transparent frosted matte glass bottle which you can easily view the colour of your foundation. It also has a pump which is a PLUS point for hygiene purpose. Also, the pump outlet almost never caught on to any leftover product! (You know what I mean! Sometimes pump foundation dispenses pieces of “foundation clots” before the truly usable liquid foundation) but NEVER with this pump!   

My only complaint is the cap which seems impossible to adhere tightly to the bottle! That’s why I never travel with this foundation because I’m so worried if the cap loosen and cause a foundation mess in my suitcase.

Claims:

It stays to the claim quite perfectly EXCEPT a few in RED

        1)      Coverage: Medium / Buildable (YES)

        2)      Finish: Semi-matte, Natural (YES)

        3)      Skin Type: All skin types (Might be slightly drying for DRY skin)

        4)      Maintains clarity and prevents creasing, fading, and shine all day (YES)

        5)      Ultra-smooth, weightless sensation (YES)

        6)      Mother of Thyme Extract helps prevent skin damage caused by oxidation, and Hypericum      Perforatum Extract helps prevent skin roughness (YES for BOTH!)

        7)      Non-comedogenic (YES at least on my skin)

Overall, SUPER-DUPER satisfied with the performance based on the claims.

Ingredients:

I’m generally quite satisfied with the ingredients list. It’s oil-free and paraben-free.

Active ingredients are Octinoxate 2.9% (chemical sunscreen which is NOT recommended for sensitive skin type) and Titanium Dioxide 2.4%. (Physical sunscreen)

Key ingredients from this Synchro series includes:  Mother of Thyme Extract (helps prevent skin damage caused by oxidation), and St John’s Wart Extract (helps prevent skin roughness).

Possible Irritants:

SD Alcohol 40B, Tocopherol, Fragrance*

Comedogenic:

Dimethicone, Butylene Glycol, Tocopherol, Talc*

*This foundation contains fragrance (very light floral scent) and talc (known to settle in pores/fine lines)! Seriously not a fan of these.

Are the ingredients skin-friendly? I would say yes since I didn’t experience any break out or skin irritation/rashes. But if you have sensitive skin then think twice since it contains chemical sunscreen, Octinoxate.

Texture:

Shiseido Synchro Skin Lasting Liquid Foundation in Shade: Neutral 3

As claimed, very fresh, oil-free, fluid-like formula. Runs very watery! Not sticky at all and sets reasonably fast on the skin! Glides on smoothly with the puff and never appear streaky despite being a matte finish. You can still dot it all over the face before blending it because it doesn’t sink into the skin immediately. I’ve tried applying it with a Flat Kabuki brush but not the best way to apply though because it appears slightly streaky and took away a bit of the coverage.

Coverage

Overall coverage is medium and buildable up to medium-to-full coverage.

Is it possible to build up to full flawless finish? I’ve tried putting on 2 full layers and it still looks kind of slightly-above-medium but not full coverage. Also, it sets quite a matte finish so I wouldn’t recommend layering too much as it might look slightly cakey.

I’ve break down a few concerns below where coverage is needed and how much can this foundation cover:

1)      Acne: 65%

2)      Redness: 70%

3)      Hyperpigmentation: 80% (Darker acne scars)

4)      Texture skin: Refine by 80%

5)      Pores: 85%

Overall coverage is very satisfying despite being super lightweight! My only complaint is that it doesn’t quite cover up the redness at the corner of my nose. But still I’m amazed.

Finishing:

The finishing is as claimed to be Semi-Matte (Not satin though) finish. However, it’s still very skin-like as it gives out a tint of glow as if you just finish your skincare routine. I’m extremely impressed with the formula to be honest. It sets down to a powdery finish and does not transfer easily. Your skin will feel as if a newborn’s butt upon touch!

*With that being said, I personally think this foundation might not suit DRY skin.

Longevity (Day Diary)

Day Tested: 30 August 2017 (Wednesday)

Weather: Extremely hot and sunny (Highest at 36°C) + No Air-conditioner   

Activity: Doing household chores indoor & Exercise outdoor (Full-on sweat mode)

Overall, very satisfied with its longevity considering I’m testing on harsh weather and also vigorous activities. Beside the timeline, I’ve also included a few concerns regarding the longevity below (I’ve Oily Acne-prone skin):

1)      Oil control	Fresh &matte for 7 hours First blot needed at 9 hours (I blotted because I was sweating. Not because of the greasiness) 10-12 hours: Blotting needed depending on weather/activity
2)      Caking Up	Slightest on chin area (after 10 hours)
3)      Dry Patches	NONE (But likely for DRY skin)
4)      Settling into pores/fine lines	YES (after 9 hours) Smile lines slightly (Not obvious) Pores too (As shown in picture) *Most likely because it contains Talc
5)      Colour Change/Oxidised	NONE at all
6)      Dryness/skin feel tight	Skin feels dry after 9 hours

*I must admit that I push this foundation to its limits hence the results. Otherwise, as an office/indoor/inactive person, this foundation works perfectly!

Recommendation:

Only for combination to oily skin type since this formula is oil-free and drying matte finish. Highly recommended for those searching for natural-looking finish but still wants MATTE-ness for oil-control. But you might want to think twice if you have large pores like me. I personally don’t mind the foundation settling into my pores after a good 9 hours and I only had it on for 12 hours because of the wear test.

In Conclusion:

My oily skin LOVES this bitch to bits! <3 <3

Is this for dry skin?
NEVER! But there’s always Synchro Skin Glow Luminizing Fluid Foundation which is in the same line! 

Is it good for a daily wear? 
Definitely YES! Wear time definitely exceeds 9/10 hours without fail.

Pros:

a) Great mattifying/oil-control foundation (Up to almost 9 hours)

b) Natural, skin-like finish for daily wear 

c) Oil-free

d) Non-comedogenic

e) Satisfying medium coverage

Cons:

a) Settling into lines and pores

b) Contains alcohol and fragrance

c) Not for sensitive skin (Octinoxate and alcohol) and dry skin

d) Skin feeling dry/tight after 9 hours wear
e) Very limited shades available in Malaysia (Not catered for dark skintone)

Diorskin Forever Perfect Cushion SPF35 PA+++ Review

I bought this cushion a month after I fell in love with the Diorskin Forever Foundation SPF35 PA+++ (If you’re interested in the review, click here). I thought it would be great if the liquid foundation comes in a compact and more travel-friendly packaging, CUSHION! And they really did! I was simply thrilled by the fact that I can fasten my morning make-up routine, touch up anytime/anywhere and be able to travel with it.

I’ve been trying this cushion for more than 4 months on and off. Also, I’ve used this cushion daily for the past 1 week. So I guess it’s time to do a full in-depth review to serve some justice for the brand or for my money! LOL XD

Packaging:

Diorskin Forever Perfect Cushion SPF35 PA+++ at Taiping Lake Garden (Malaysia)

Hmm…. The packaging for this cushion is not for every cushion’s lover LOL. The Diorskin Forever Perfecting Cushion has the simplest, most classic Dior look to it.  At least to me, the cushion’s packaging is the BOMB! Even though it’s made of plastic but it looks expensive and classy! It has the Diorskin Forever series’ dark blue as the base colour and the word ‘DIOR’ imprinted in silver. The applicator puff included feels very dense, thicker and bouncy (Pros and Cons). It’s also very gentle on the skin. The puff grabs product evenly from the cushion but I somehow felt that it soaks up too much product and dispenses very little on the skin. (I understand it’s never easy to make a good cushion’s puff)  

Claims:

It stays to the claim quite perfectly EXCEPT a few in RED

1) 16 hours wear (Slightly less than 9 hours)

2) Luminous matte finish

3) Fresh, fluid texture

4) Weightless

5) "Air Cushion" technology (retains the quality of its pigments and the benefits of its skincare ingredients each time it is opened)

6) "Colour-Lock" technology/colour doesn’t change (Half a shade darker BUT not obvious)

7) Refine texture day after day (“Poreless Effect” Skincare Essence)

Overall, satisfied with the performance based on the claims.

Ingredients:

I’m quite surprised that the formula/ingredients in this cushion is slightly different from the liquid foundation. But with less irritants and comedogenic agent which is a good thing!

Possible Irritants:

Petrolatum, PEG-100 Stearate, Yellow 5

Comedogenic:

Dimethicone, PEG-100 Stearate, Cetyl Alcohol, Butylene Glycol

Are the ingredients skin-friendly? Not so. But it doesn’t cause me any obvious break out. Just be aware if you’re allergic to any listed above. So far, I’ve not heard of any online reviews complaining about severe break out after use.

Texture:

As claimed, very fresh, fluid-like base product. Not sticky at all and sets quickly on the skin! (Quicker than the Liquid Foundation version) Glides on smoothly with the puff and never appear streaky despite being a matte finish. I’ve tried applying it with a Flat Kabuki brush but not the best way to apply though because it took away a lot of the coverage.

Tips: Apply using the puff provided and apply part by part!

Coverage:

Overall coverage is medium and buildable up to medium-to-full coverage.

Is it possible to build up to full flawless finish? I don’t think so! It’s obviously more sheer compared to the liquid foundation formula and it’s as expected of a cushion compact. This is definitely a very daily type of foundation. So NO high expectation of coverage from it.

I’ve break down a few concerns below where coverage is needed and how much can this foundation cover:

1)      Acne: 60%

2)      Redness: 80%

3)      Hyperpigmentation: 60% (Darker acne scars)

4)      Texture skin: Refine by 60%

5)      Pores: 70%

Shade: 030 (Medium Beige)

Finishing

The finishing is as claimed to be Luminous Matte (Not satin though) finish even after it is let to set on its own! (But I do feel that it’s more matte and more luminous than liquid formula) I’m extremely impressed with the formula to be honest. It does leave the skin slightly tacky even after set but does not appear slippery. (Good for Dry skin) It doesn’t transfer as much as liquid foundation formula when touched so skipping setting powder is possible!

Longevity (Day Diary):

Day Tested: 23 August 2017 (Wednesday)

Weather: Sunny (34°C) and rainy in the afternoon

Activity: Doing household chores indoor & outdoor (Full-on sweat mode)

Overall, very satisfied with its longevity considering it a cushion product. Beside the timeline, I’ve 

also included a few concerns regarding the longevity below (I’ve Oily Acne-prone skin):

1)      Oil control	Fresh &matte for 5 hours First blot needed at 6 hours 7-12 hours: Blotting needed depending on weather/activity
2)      Caking Up	YES especially upper lip and chin area (after 8 hours) Cake up at the corner of the nose (after 8 hours)
3)      Dry Patches	NONE
4)      Settling into pores/fine lines	NONE
5)      Colour Change/Oxidised	Colour remains same for 8 hours 8-12 hours: Become half a shade darker

Recommendation:

All skin types even acne-prone. Great for oily skin type. Not so for super dry skin since it's more matte and might dry out the skin throughout the day. 

Slightly sceptical about the ingredients but so far no new-forming acne/breakout. 

Highly recommended for those searching for natural-looking finish but still wants MATTE-ness for oil-control. 

In Conclusion:

An all-rounder cushion for oily skin which I'm extremely amazed.

But is it a good alternative to the Diorskin Forever Foundation SPF35 PA+++ (liquid foundation formula)?
Somehow felt it's better considering greater oil-control property! Only downside is the caking up on my T-zone area. 

Is it a good cushion for touch-up?
NEVER! Most likely because it has a matte finish and sets too quickly. Touch up will looks slightly cakey and dry.

Is it good for a daily wear? 
Definitely YES! But limited wear time. (about right for working hours of 8 hours)

Pros:

a) Pretty Classic Dior Packaging 

b) Nice and more luminous & more matte finish 

c) Natural medium coverage for daily use

d) Oil-control: Up to almost 6 hours (AMAZING!)

Cons:

a) Caking up on T-zone (after 8 hours)

b) Coverage isn't enough for textured, acneic, hyperpigmented skin

c) Strong fragrance (which might affect some individuals)

Diorskin Forever Foundation SPF35 PA+++ Review

Diorskin Forever Foundation at one the earliest man-made lake, Taiping Lake Garden 

I know I’m a little too late in reviewing this product but it’s seriously too pricey that I really needed time to save up in order to purchase.

The reason (more like an excuse) for buying is because I felt that my Holy Grail Estee Lauder Double Wear Foundation is too matte, full coverage for an everyday look and wanted to search for an alternative. The Diorskin Forever line claims a 16 hours luminous matte finish which seriously caught my attention. In order for a foundation to looks luminous & matte & long wearing at the same time on my super oily skin is completely IMPOSSIBLE! Of course I felt challenged! (Just an EXCUSE! XD) 

Let’s see if I love this very highly raved product from so many bloggers worldwide from US Influncers like Jaclynn Hills, Jeffree Stars to Korean Influencers: BambiGirl.

(Clicked on the names to be link to their videos regarding this product recommendation)  

Packaging

The liquid foundation formula comes in a very sleek and heavy matte frosted glass bottle with the Dior signature-designed dark blue cap. It also comes with a pump dispenser which I’m really thankful of. What I really like about the pump dispenser is that it dispenses a very appropriate amount (neither too much or too less), very easy to control and feels solid. [Refer picture in subtitle "Texture"] But the problem with pump dispenser is some of the products will be caught up at the opening and solidify. (So do remove the solidified part before applying on the face)

Claims

To be completely honest, I’m very surprise that both of them are truly compatible to their claims. (YES to ALL except one)

   1) 16 hours wear

   2) Luminous matte finish

   3) Flawless Complexion (Almost)

   4) Unprecedented Comfort

   5) Refine texture day after day (“Poreless Effect” Skincare Essence) *Can’t really tell

   6) Shine-control (Up to 5 hours for Oily skin)

   7) No mask effect/second skin-like (“Wear Lock” Polymer)
   8) Sunscreen of SPF35 PA+++ (BUT I NEVER rely on foundation's SPF)

*Out of so many claims listed below, one which is the skincare benefit “Poreless Effect” is still not yet appreciated. (Probably because I don’t use every day)

Ingredients Dissect

The ingredients are not so skin-friendly with lots of possible irritants and comedogenic agents. Well, I’m not surprise since I did experience new comedones (whiteheads) after each use and existing acne became slightly more raged. The UK Youtuber, MyPaleSkin does mentioned in her review video that this foundation has ruined her skin with severe breakouts. But, personally never had I experienced severe breakout though.

Possible Irritants:

“PEG-9 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone, Phenoxyethanol, Parfum, Linalool, Limonene, Butyphenyl Methylpropional, Acacia Senegal Gum, Citronellol, BHT, Zinc Gluconate”

Comedogenic:

“Dimethicone, Butylene Glycol, Stearic acid, Algin (Fragrance)”

Another downside is that fragrance is all over in the list which is also very noticeable during application and last throughout the day. (A fresh floral scent) 

Texture:

One Pump-Size (Shade 021)

Excellent Spreadability (Shade 021)

It’s a fresh, fluid, very runny, liquid-like texture without a tat bit of thickness to it. It glides on the skin easily and smoothly. I have no problems spreading the products with my fingers, regular sponge/Beauty Blender or Flat Foundation/Kabuki brushes. The only downside is that it sets quite fast on the skin since it has a watery consistency which is reasonably understandable.

Tips: Do NOT dot this foundation all over the face before blending. Apply part by part!

Coverage

Overall coverage is medium and buildable up to medium-to-full coverage.

Is it possible to build up to full flawless finish? I think it’s quite difficult and also you have pay the price of wearing a “foundation mask” where you will definitely look like you have tons of makeup on.

I’ve break down a few concerns below where coverage is needed and how much can this foundation cover:

       1) Acne: 70%

       2) Redness: 90%

       3) Hyperpigmentation: 70% (Darker acne scars)

       4) Texture skin: Refine by 60%

       5) Pores: 50%
     

    

Finishing

The finishing is as claimed to be Luminous Matte (Not satin though) finish even after it is let to set on its own! I’m certainly impressed with the formula to be honest. It does leave the skin slightly tacky even after set but does not appear slippery. (Good for Dry skin) It does transfer when touched so it’s better if you set it with a powder before you go on a date with a guy who loves white shirt! XD With the setting powder, it’s more likely that the finish is more matte but you can still see a tint of glow (Matte but NOT flat). Overall, a very natural, second-skin kind of foundation! 

*More pictures please refer the section "Longevity"

Longevity (Day Diary)

Day Tested: 17 August 2017 (Thursday)

Weather: Sunny (33°C)

Activity: Mostly indoor with air-conditioner + Doing household chores indoor & outdoor (I sweat and flush very easily)

Overall, very satisfied with the long lasting effect from this foundation. Beside the timeline, I’ve also included a few concerns regarding the longevity below (I’ve Oily Acne-prone skin):

1)      Oil control	·         Fresh &matte for 3 hours        ·         First blot needed at 6 hours        ·         6-12 hours: Blotting needed               depending on weather
2)      Caking Up	·         None        ·         Does NOT cake up at the corner of     the nose (Usually does)
3)      Dry Patches	·         NONE at all
4)      Settling into pores/fine lines	·         NONE
5)      Colour Change/Oxidised	·         Colour remains same for 3 hours        ·         4-12 hours: ONE shade darker

Recommendation

All skin types EXCEPT sensitive and acne-prone skin. I’m not a chemist but I’m still slightly skeptical about the ingredients in this foundation especially when MyPaleSkin and I personally had the experience of newly-forming whiteheads and existing acne getting angrier. Also, get at least one shade lighter than your own skin tone since it oxidizes. Not for those who are aiming for super full flawless coverage. Suitable for those who needs to just get through the 8 hours office time without touch-up. Not for more than 9 hours wear!

In Conclusion

An all-rounder foundation which I'm extremely amazed. But is it comparable to my Holy Grail, Estee Lauder Double Wear Foundation? Not really but I would say it's 60% close! Is it good for a daily wear? Definitely YES!

Pros:

a) Pretty Classic Dior Packaging with a pump which dispense appropriate amount of product

b) Nice luminous finish and matte enough to control oil

c) Natural medium coverage for daily use

d) Longevity: Great for office hours (8 hours)

Cons:

a) Comedogenic (Refer to "Ingredients Dissect")

b) Coverage isn't enough for textured, acneic, hyperpigmented skin

c) Very obvious color change/oxidised by the end of the day

d) Not fragrance-free (which might affect some individuals)

Empties Week 2 (Part 1)

Empties Week 2 (Part 1)

1) 我的美丽日记高效级净保湿卸妆水 My Beauty Diary Ultra Cleansing Water

Got this for free while purchasing their famous sheet mask set in Taiwan. My Beauty Diary has always been famous for its sheet mask for its high quality cotton sheet and variety of choices for different purpose/function targeting for almost all skin types and problems. I must say I’m surprisingly accepting with their Ultra Cleansing line’s product.

It claims to be a cleanser, make up remover incorporating with the goodness of skincare. (Moisturizing properties of a toner I supposed) So let’s do the CLAIMS dissect one by one!

CLAIMS:

a) Cleansing: Deep cleansing with the ability to penetrate deep into the pores to remove makeup and dirt

b) Skincare Benefits: Moisturizing and skin balancing properties

c) Free of Parabens (preservative widely used in cosmetic products), Colorant, Mineral Oil, Alcohol and Fragrance

Ingredients Dissect:

“Water, PEG-6 caprylic/ capric glycerides, Propylene Glycol, Dipropylene glycol (Moisturizing properties), Phenoxyethanol, Propanediol, Chlorphenesin, Saccharide Isomerate, Broccoli Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract (Moisurizing properties), Allantoin (Soothing/Anti-inflammatory), Yeast Extract, Soy Amino Acids, Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate”

From the list above, only the BOLD ones (act as preservatives) are slightly worrying for sensitive skin as it might be source of irritant BUT so far so good, no breakout or rashes after use. The ITALIC ones are the pure goodness in the bottle which are quite neutrally promising.

Cleansing properties: This is only for light makeup/sunscreen kinda day. Not for heavy makeup! Waterproof makeup? NOT at all! (But it doesn’t claim to be for waterproof makeup though) Will need at least 8-10 cotton pads to be completely clean which is my usual usage. Overall, promising cleansing properties but not impressive.

Moisturizing properties: NOT AT ALL! I have combination-to-oily skin and still after every use my skin feel slightly tight (dryness). I would say this is ONLY makeup remover and NOT a skincare step.

Texture: Water and NO OIL leaving the skin super fresh and no sticky residue.

Comedogenic: NO

Repurchase: NO. I prefer heavy makeup and this is just not enough for me! Unless you needed something light for sunscreen remover.

Recommendation: ONLY for combination to oily skin. NOT for dry skin.

Overall Rating: 3/5

2) Maybelline Eye + Lip Make Up Remover 70ml (RM16+)

Bought this during Watsons PWP for RM16.11 which I thought might be another option other than my Holy Grail: Loreal Paris Gentle Lip and Eye Make-up Remover (RM20+). I actually bought this just to try this out for YOU GUYS!!

It’s a usual eye and lip make up remover with the biphase, blue layer and clear water layer like the Loreal Paris ones. But there’re a few differences in packaging for example the size of product. Maybelline’s contains of 70ml worth of product while Loreal Paris’ has 125ml of products. Price difference is at it slightest of less than RM10 depending on the discount in different drugstore too.

CLAIMS:

a) Safely and gently dissolves waterproof mascara and eye makeup (NOT really)

b) Completely cleansing without oily residue (NOT AT ALL)

Ingredients dissect: Oil-free, fragrance-free, no obvious irritant

Cleansing properties: Decent but NOT enough for strongly waterproof makeup such as my Holy Grail mascara: Kiss Me Heroine Make Heavy Rotation Long and Curl Mascara (Only this though! Other waterproof mascara seems to remove quite alright). However still able to remove long lasting liquid lipstick and waterproof eyeliner. I usually ONLY need 2 cotton pads BUT with this I need at least extra 1 or 2 more.

Texture: As of the Loreal Paris ones BUT I hate that it leaves a weird oily film on the skin despite claiming to be oil-free. Does not irritate the eye.

Comedogenic: NO

Repurchase: NO. I still prefer my Loreal Paris Gentle Lip and Eye Make-up Remover because I can never give up Kiss Me Mascara! Even though Maybelline’s is cheaper BUT Loreal Paris comes in bigger amount which will last longer. Maybelline’s only lasted me less than 3 weeks.

Recommendation: For those who prefer slightly cheaper eye and lip makeup remover and are not deeply in love with Kiss Me Heroin Make Mascaras. LOL XD

Overall rating: 2/5 (Just my preferences XD)

3) Sulwhasoo Essential Balancing Water EX 125ml (RM200+)

All I can say is that I’m completely sold to the concept and results from Sulwhasoo’s products. None of their products I tried so far fail me in any way. I bought this toner in a set after trying out their bestselling First Care Activating Serum EX having thought that they will work better together for better results. And YES THEY totally DID!! BUT why are you so dang expensive Sulwhasoo! XD LOL

CLAIMS:

a) Gel-type toner absorbs to skin with deep hydration and moisture (YES)

The properties of Matrimony Vine relax the skin while Purslane provides hydration, leaving your skin with a delicate veil of moisture.

b) Absorbs quickly to leave skin hydrated and supple without any excess residue (YES)

Spreads smoothly and absorbs quickly, providing long-lasting hydration, soothing the skin, and leaving a clean finish.

Ingredients Dissect:

“WATER, ALCOHOL, BETAINE, BUTYLENE GLYCOL, GLYCERYL POLYMETHACRYLATE, CAMELLIA SINENSIS LEAF EXTRACT, GLYCYRRHIZA URALENSIS (LICORICE) ROOT EXTRACT, GLYCERIN, PAEONIA ALBIFLORA ROOT EXTRACT, NELUMBO NUCIFERA FLOWER EXTRACT, POLYGONATUM OFFICINALE RHIZOME/ROOT EXTRACT, LILIUM CANDIDUM BULB EXTRACT, REHMANNIA GLUTINOSA ROOT EXTRACT, HONEY, PORTULACA OLERACEA EXTRACT, NATTO GUM, BIOSACCHARIDE GUM-1, BETA-GLUCAN, SODIUM HYALURONATE, GLYCERETH-26, ETHYLHEXYLGLYCERIN, PHENYL TRIMETHICONE, PROPANEDIOL, BIS-PEG- 18 METHYL ETHER DIMETHYL SILANE, PEG-60 HYDROGENATED CASTOR OIL, PEG/PPG- 17/6 COPOLYMER, ACRYLATES/C10-30 ALKYL ACRYLATE CROSSPOLYMER, POTASSIUM HYDROXIDE, DISODIUM EDTA, PHENOXYETHANOL, FRAGRANCE”

BOLDED ingredients are possible irritants to some people but not all because I’ve not recognised any skin irritations/allergies after finishing the whole bottle. Alcohol is quite high up in the list so those who are allergic to alcohol might want to think twice. (I’m personally quite sensitive to alcohol-contained products but this has not cause me any redness or allergies which I’m quite surprised) It contains of natural fragrance and essential fragrance.

Texture:

It’s a clear gel, non-sticky toner. Absorb within seconds into the skin leaving the skin fresh and non-tacky. Leaves no residue or film on the skin after absorbed.

Review of functions:

I used this together with the Sulwhasoo First Care Activating Serum EX pre-toner and Essential Balancing Emulsion EX post-toner. It’s moisturizing for the skin but not too heavy for my oily skin. After weeks to months of using this product, I can tell that my skin is getting calmer and balanced as in less dehydration/dryness around my cheek area and also less oily around my T-zone area. Besides, my redness and acne has been getting lesser since the start of this routine. I realised that with this skincare routine, my makeup has hold one better too.

I love using Sulwhasoo’s products with my clean hands which is recommended by the brand. The traditional herbs mixed with a light florally scent is the most luxurious spa you can ever experience twice a day. XD It truly balanced and calmed my mind with every use despite the stress I was experiencing during my final exam.

Comedogenic: NOT AT ALL in fact it reduces my sebum production and hence reduces comedone and acne.

Repurchase: 100% YES! (But the price is just…..) I would say it’s worth the price but then I’m still a student man! LOL XD

Recommendations: For combination to oily skin. Its fast-absorbing and lightweight texture suits these skin types better especially for those who have dehydrated in the deep skin layers but oily on the outer surface. Dry skin types wouldn’t benefit much out of this product unless you add on hydrating serum and thicker moisturizers. I would advise sensitive skin types to try this with a sample first considering alcohol is high up in the ingredient list.

Overall Rating: 5/5

4) Belif Hungarian Water Essence 75ml (RM160+)

I have always wanted to try out this brand: Belif after so many youtubers or bloggers raving about their bestselling Aqua Bomb moisturizer (Review of this in Empties Week 1) which I’m currently hooked to. Since then, I’ve been looking out a lot on products from Belif and hence this one (Thanks to @hermomy). This essence contains the legendary Hungarian Water, the hydration beauty secret of Hungarian Queen Elizabeth.

CLAIMS:

a) Provide cool sensation (NO)

b) Clings to the skin lightly without stickiness (DEFINITELY YASS)

c) Prolonging suppleness and softness (For a few hours but NOT the whole day)

Ingredients Dissect:

“Water, Dipropylene Glycol, Glycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Extract, Salvia Officinalis(Sage) Leaf Extract, Melissa Officinalis Leaf Extract, Achillea Millefolium Extract, Peucedanum Graveolens (Dill) Extract, Alchemilla Vulgaris Extract, Rose Extract, Poncirus Trifoliata Fruit Extract, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, *Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract, *Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, *Nepeta Cataria Extract, *Rubus Idaeus (Raspberry) Leaf Extract, *Baptisia Tinctoria Root Extract, *Stellaria Media (Chickweed) Extract, +Alchemilla Vulgaris Leaf Extract, **Equisetum Arvense Leaf Extract, **Urtica Dioica (Nettle) Leaf Extract, **Plantago Lanceolata Leaf Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Cyclopentasiloxane, Triethylhexanoin, Tromethamine, Sclerotium Gum, Ammonium Acryloyldimethltaurate/Vp Copolymer, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Trisodium EDTA, ***Fragrance, Citronnellol, Limonene. *Napiers Original Formula. **Napiers Aqua Formula. ***Fragrances of Natural Origin”

As usual, the BOLDED ingredients are possible skin irritants. (Bear in mind that it’s not the case for every individuals) Achillea Milleform Extract is an anti-inflammatory ingredient but some research does show signs of skin irritation and photosensitivity. (More sensitive to sun/UV rays and may absorb them more than usual causing sunburn easier) Cyclopentasiloxane is SILICONE acting as a lubricant/emollient or deliver products into the skin. It’s a volatile silicone and hence evaporate after doing its job leaving no adverse effect to the body. BUT it can somehow be an irritant to some individuals. Citronnellol is the only non-natural fragrance in this which can be skin irritant as well.

Overall, none of this should be of concern, because so far I’ve not got any issues with this product at all.

Texture: Clear, watery texture. Super-fast absorbing leaving the skin fresh and no residue/tacky feeling on the skin.

Review of function:

I love how it stays to the claim of being lightweight and suppleness. However, never had I feel a tad bit of cooling sensation on my skin during application. Hydration was decent but not amazing despite following the instructions given which is 2 to 3 pumps per use. I would say it lasted me good 4 hours but then after that no more. I did try 4 to 5 pumps (It’s very watery so it doesn’t feel heavy at all) but I felt that it didn’t do a superb job.

It somehow soothes my redness and acne with every use but does not cure it. (Not the claim though)

Comedogenic: NO

Repurchase: NO. I’m in love with the texture but it’s not worth the hefty price tag if it doesn’t keep up to all its claim.

Recommendation: Only for super-oily skin types. Would not recommend dry skin at all. Combination skin types still do-able but might not be enough hydration.

Overall Rating: 2/5