Dear Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin Drop (Vitamin C)

             

About the Dear, Klairs:

• A high quality skincare brand for sensitive skin established in 2010.
• Products are free from harmful ingredients: colorants, alcohol, parabens, & fragrance.
• Aims to create powerful products at friendly prices.

Freshly Juiced Vitamin Drop belongs to Dear Klairs' ultimate brightening line. The vitamin C serum received several awards and continues to receive positive reviews. 

The product has a 5% concentration of pure Vitamin C. It's admirable that they put the actual amount of Vitamin C as some brands do not. A 5% concentration is actually low compared to other products, but it is not surprising, because the company's aim is to make products suitable for sensitive skin. It is gentle yet strong enough to even out skin tone, tighten pores, brighten skin, and fade pigmentation. Best for new users of Vitamin C who would like to introduce it to their routines. Not recommended for those wanting a stronger Vitamin C serum.

For those who already did research about Vitamin C, you must be wondering why Klairs packaged a Vitamin C serum in a clear bottle. "Klairs’ serum is different from the rest because of its innovative stabilized formula. Compared to serums that contain pure Vitamin C, it has a longer shelf life of about two years and can withstand light — therefore the clear bottle." 

Tip: Note however that this special characteristic of Klairs is not applicable to all products unless stated. For that reason, it is advisable to "purchase Vitamin C products in airtight packaging and a dark/tinted container, with either a medicine dropper or tube rather than pump. Exposure to air, light, and heat will oxidize and degrade the serum." 

Personal experience:

I tested out Freshly Juiced Vitamin Drop serum on both my face and arm because I've been using several products on my face already. My arm had older sun spots while my face had a mix of new and old skin discolouration. 

After a month of using it on both areas, I noticed that it was most effective on the new spots caused by acne vs. those that were present for years now which were sun spots. Both types of spots are still present, however they have definitely lightened. The new ones from acne are almost gone. I will continue to apply this serum with the hope of removing the discoloration completely. 

Overall, it is truly the ultimate brightening product as claimed by Dear Klairs. On another note, I'd also like to mention how I found the bottle/container a bit cheap comparing it to other products I have. However, I think this may be in line with their goal of keeping costs low while delivering superior quality ingredients that work.

There won't be a repurchase for me because my skin is not sensitive to Vitamin C. I can tolerate a higher concentration and I need a stronger product. 

I included a list of highly recommended Vitamin C products below.

Benefits of topical Vitamin C:

• brightens the skin and evens out complexion
• treats hyperpigmentation
• has anti-inflammatory activity and can be used in conditions like acne vulgaris and rosacea
• promotes wound healing and prevents post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
• reduces premature aging by protecting the skin from the untimely skin wrinkles that sun exposure can cause.
• helps reduce premature wrinkling by stimulating the growth of collagen
• a lot more!

Highly Recommended Vitamin C Products:

1. Rohto Mentholatum - Melano CC Vitamin C Essence

2. By Wishtrend - Pure Vitamin C 21.5% Advanced Serum

3. The Ordinary Ascorbic Acid 8% + Alpha Arbutin 2%

4. Mad Hippie Vitamin C Serum

5. Derma E Vitamin C Concentrated Serum with Hyaluronic Acid

6. SOME BY MI - Galactomyces Pure Vitamin C Glow Serum

* All other Vitamin C products here *

Where to Purchase Klairs?
1. YesStyle - Rated 4.5/5 stars of 3,414 reviews
2. iHerb - Rated 4.2/5 stars of 182 reviews

Notes:

• can safely be used in conjunction with sunscreen, tretinoin, retinol, other antioxidants and alpha hydroxy acids such as glycolic acid. However, make sure to research the proper way on how to combine these into your routine. 
• Stinging, erythema and dryness are sometimes observed after use of topical Vit. C. These can easily be treated using a moisturizer. 
• Care must be taken while applying Vit. C around the eyes.

Dear Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin Drop Ingredients:

Water, Propylen Glycol, Ascorbic Acid, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Centella Asiatica Extract, Citrus Junos Fruit Extract, Illicium Verum(Anise) Fruit Extract, Citrus Paradisi(Grapefruit) Fruit Extract, Nelumbium Speciosum Flower Extract, Paeonia Suffruticosa Root Extract, Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract, Polysorbate 60, Brassica Oleracea Italica (Broccoli) Extract, Chaenomeles Sinensis Fruit Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Oil, Sodium Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Disodium EDTA, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Camellia Sinensis Callus Culture Extract, Larix Europaea Wood Extract, Chrysanthellum Indicum Extract, Rheum Palmatum Root Extract, Asarum Sieboldi Root Extract, Quercus Mongolia Leaf Extract, Persicaria Hydropiper Extract, Corydalis Turtschaninovii Root Extract, Coptis Chinensis Root Extract, Magnolia Obovata Bark Extract, Lysine HCL, Proline, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Acetyl Methionine, Theanine, Lecithin, Acetyl Glutamine, SH-Olgopeptide-1, SH-Olgopeptide-2, SH-Polypeptide-1, SH-Polypeptide-9, SH-Polypeptide-11, Bacillus/Soybean/Folic Acid Ferment Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Caprylyl Glycol, Butylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Limonene

Source:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3673383/

XOXO,

Val

Other related articles:

1. 7 Skin Method
2. Review: Pyunkang Yul - Essence Toner

3. Step 1-2: Double Cleansing
4. Review: COSRX - Clear Fit Master Patch

* All products are lovingly purchased with my own money for personal consumption, and in no way sponsored by any of the skincare brands. All reviews and information are based on personal experience with the products. For the most part, I research a LOT before buying. However, some items I happily purchase spontaneously even without prior research, such as those on markdown/sales if you get what I mean. 😁

* The blog has referral links that you can use when you decide to buy. Thanking you in advance! 

This benefits both of us, as it will give each one a form of reward. E.g. discounts/credits. Yasss!!! 

Lastly, I hope the information on this page is able to help in your skincare journey. 😊

Link to YesStyle discount code: https://ystyle.co/KDXU

SK-II Facial Treatment Essence Review

SK-II

Interesting Facts About the Brand:

• SK-II is a Japanese brand, now owned by P&G, & was launched early 1980's. That's more than 30 years ago!
• Japanese scientists observed that elderly workers at a sake brewery had smooth, clear and young-looking hands from years of submerging them in the fermented yeast. A yeast extract that the company calls pitera.
• SK-II's signature ingredient PITERA is rich in vitamins, amino acids, minerals and organic acids.
• The brand received numerous awards for various products, but the most talked about and revered one is SK-II Facial Treatment Essence.

Source: Wikipedia

To find out more about the science behind the company's star ingredient. Click here.

Among other essences in the market, SK-II Facial Treatment Essence is definitely a luxury and high end product. But is it worth the hefty price tag? Is it worth splurging on? A hundred times YES for me. I've been using this product for some time now and I can definitely see results. My skin looks better overall! My fines lines aren't that deep and my skin is hydrated. SK-II FTE is my holy grail and I do not regret spending a cent on it. I will keep repurchasing. I do not see myself replacing it with any other product. I can always add new products to my routine, but never not have this essence in my stash. Listed below are some of the highly rated SK-II essence dupes. I hope to add some  to my routine as each one is formulated with different ingredients.

SK-II Facial Treatment Essence Dupes:
1. Missha Time Revolution First Treatment Essence
2. Neogen Real Ferment Micro Essence
3. Secret Key Starting Treatment Essence
4. COSRX - Galactomyces 95 Tone Balancing Essence

SK-II Facial Treatment Essence

A powerful treatment essence dubbed “Miracle Water” in Asia. Each bottle contains 90% PITERA™, a natural bio ingredient cultured exclusively in Japan for SK-II. Its transformative powers on skin appearance are legendary, that a bottle is sold every 2 seconds.

What are essences?
Essences are light yet powerful formulas that treat skin on a cellular level. This means they deliver rich ingredients deep into your skin fast — all the better to hydrate, rejuvenate, and freshen up your skin. Essences are typically clear and watery, with a mild, almost-unnoticeable scent. Their lightweight texture means your skin can quickly absorb all the goodness, and the water-based formula is suitable for virtually every skin type. 

Source: https://www.sk-ii.com/SK2-HR-FT-ESS.html

It does have a mild scent that isn't very pleasing to my senses but I don't mind. This essence is also very very very gentle on the skin and sinks in well. Because of this, I am able to use it under my eyes and the sides of my eyes which is one of my problem areas. I am so happy because the lines aren't that deep anymore! So I've decided to continue using it for prevention as well. I also use 3 layers on my problem areas instead of the whole 7 Skin method. On top of this, I use Pyunkang Yul Essence toner for more hydration. Prevention is key! 

Recommended use: Use your essence right after toning and cleansing, then layer on your facial serum(s) (also in order of weight), and finish off with your moisturizer to seal it all in. 

TIPS: 

1. Instead of using a cotton pad, use hands to save on product. A cotton pad absorbs liquid too fast. 
2. Buy when on sale. Sometimes Sephora goes on sale and you can get it for 15-20% less. I also heard Costco offers SK-II at competitive member prices. Too bad I don't have access to a Costco near me. Now that I think about it maybe an hour trip to Costco isn't so bad. You can also purchase through YesStyle where you can get 12-15% OFF depending on the sales and codes used plus free shipping. 

   

   YesStyle purchase with sample sized freebies

3. Get the trial kit. It consists of SK-II FTE, a facial mask, and a mini sized toner. Better price. Value for money! This is why I was able to try their amazing face mask. If you have a special event the next day, use it the night before. I promise you will see yourself glowing and skin so plump! 
4. As mentioned above, use 3 layers or more on your problem areas for best results. Just like the 7 Skin Method.

>> Show me other Facial Treatment Essence brands

XOXO,
Val

Other related articles:

1. Some by mi AHA BHA PHA Niacinamide Miracle Toner Review 
2. 7 Skin Method
3. Review: Pyunkang Yul - Essence Toner

4. Review: COSRX - Clear Fit Master Patch

* All products are lovingly purchased with my own money for personal consumption, and in no way sponsored by any of the skincare brands. All reviews and information are based on personal experience with the products. For the most part, I research a LOT before buying. However, some items I happily purchase spontaneously even without prior research, such as those on markdown/sales if you get what I mean. 😁

* The blog has referral links that you can use when you decide to buy. Thanking you in advance! 

This benefits both of us, as it will give each one a form of reward. E.g. discounts/credits. Yasss!!! 

Lastly, I hope the information on this page is able to help in your skincare journey. 😊

Link to YesStyle discount code: https://ystyle.co/KDXU

Review: Senka Perfect Whip Foam Cleanser

• Senka is under Shisheido (a Japanese brand with over 145 years of experience)
• Perfect whip is one of the top facial cleansers in Japan for years now. A cult favorite.
• Can be used as step 2 cleanser right after oil cleansing
• Very rich foam
• Has Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin, Lauric Acid, Citric Acid (AHA)

By the looks of it, I was pretty determined not to let any go to waste. LOL. That's how I am. I paid for it so might as well use it all!

A little goes a long way. You just need a pea sized amount and you're good to go.
My skin feels so clean and smooth after washing.

Note that this cleanser has fragrance and alcohol, which can be potential irritants for sensitive skin. However, as someone with combination skin, this cleanser works for me.

Verdict: I try new products once in a while, but my go to foam cleanser is still Cerave Foaming Face Wash. Senka Perfect Whip is not a repurchase for me.

Where to purchase?

1. Walmart
2. YesStyle - Rated 4.5/5 stars of 1,337 reviews
3. Amazon - Rated 4.2/ 5stars of 596 reviews

XOXO,
Val

Other related articles:

1. 7 Skin Method
2. Review: Pyunkang Yul - Essence Toner

3. Step 1-2: Double Cleansing
4. Review: COSRX - Clear Fit Master Patch

* All products are lovingly purchased with my own money for personal consumption, and in no way sponsored by any of the skincare brands. All reviews and information are based on personal experience with the products. For the most part, I research a LOT before buying. However, some items I happily purchase spontaneously even without prior research, such as those on markdown/sales if you get what I mean. 😁

* The blog has referral links that you can use when you decide to buy. Thanking you in advance! 

This benefits both of us, as it will give each one a form of reward. E.g. discounts/credits. Yasss!!! 

Lastly, I hope the information on this page is able to help in your skincare journey. 😊

Link to YesStyle discount code: https://ystyle.co/KDXU

The Korean 7 Skin Method: Are you using the right toner?

7 SKIN KOREAN METHOD

• 7 applications of a hydrating toner on the face
• or simply patting of an essence/toner 7 times
• It is part of the whole 10-step Korean skincare routine
• 7 Skin benefits: hydrated, radiant, plump, and glowing skin!

Do's and Dont's of 7 Skins:

• Do use a hydrating toner or essence for this method. Chemical exfoliants will harm the skin if too much is applied.
• Do check the ingredients. Make sure that all it has are skin loving ingredients. 
• Avoid irritants such as alcohol, fragrance, cleansers, and AHAs/BHAs.
• If you already have a qualifying toner based on the above specifics, then use it and see how it works first.
• Do look for ingredients such as: Glycerin, Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Saccharomyces Ferment Filtrate, Panthenol, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract, etc. (See recommended toners below)

How do I start?

1. Immediately after Step 1&2 (Double cleansing), keep the face slightly damp. Then  ever so gently start patting the product onto the face with your hands.
2. Instead of applying 7 layers on the first try, start with 3 layers then gradually increase the number of layers over the following days. This is to see how the skin reacts. Important: Make sure that the product has sinked in onto the skin before applying the next layer.
3. After a while, you will know how many layers your skin actually needs. Personally, I am satisfied with using 3-5 layers.
4. Incorporate this method in your morning and evening routine.

TIPS:

1. I apply more layers on problem areas: fine lines on forehead and eye area. 
2. I don't use just one hydrating toner. Currently I use 2 hydrating products together. My holy grail SK-2 First Treatment Essence followed by Pyunkang Yul Essence Toner.
3. I am also planning to step up my 7 Skin game by adding more hydrating toners and using them on different days. With this, I am able to give my skin a wide variety of beneficial ingredients. You can't find everything in just one toner right!?

Recommended Hydrating Toners/Essences for the Korean 7 Skin Method:

1. Etude House Soon Jung pH 5.5 Relief Toner My review here. (MUST HAVE!)

2. Pyunkang Yul Essence Toner (LOVE! They carry a small size for those who want to test first)

3. SK-2 Facial Treatment Essence (expensive but worth it!) My review here.
4. Klairs - Supple Preparation Facial Toner (preferably the unscented one)
5. Neogen Real Ferment Micro Essence  
6. Secret Key Starting Treatment Essence (most their toners have fragrance & some have alcohol)
7. iUNIK - Vitamin Hyaluronic Acid Vitalizing 

* Show me all other toner brands *

XOXO,
Val

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Other related articles:

1. Some by mi AHA BHA PHA Miracle Toner Review
2. My Skincare Routine (January 2020)

3. Benton Fermentation Eye Cream
4. Review: COSRX - Clear Fit Master Patch

* All products are lovingly purchased with my own money for personal consumption, and in no way sponsored by any of the skincare brands. All reviews and information are based on personal experience with the products. For the most part, I research a LOT before buying. However, some items I happily purchase spontaneously even without prior research, such as those on markdown/sales if you get what I mean. 😁

* The blog has referral links that you can use when you decide to buy. Thanking you in advance! 

This benefits both of us, as it will give each one a form of reward. E.g. discounts/credits. Yasss!!! 

Lastly, I hope the information on this page is able to help in your skincare journey. 😊

Link to YesStyle discount code: https://ystyle.co/KDXU

AM & PM Skincare Routine (January 2020)

My skincare routine changes frequently, mostly depending on what I feel my skin needs. I also consider latest beauty research, reviews, and never ending sales promotions. Although I am not able to finish most bottles before buying new ones, I make sure to circle back to the older products so I can use them before their expiration dates. Rotation is key!

Tip: Use soon to expire products on the neck and body instead of letting them go bad.

Skin type: combination skin

Skin concerns: fine lines, pores, sun spots, hydration, firmness, and texture

Morning routine w/o exfoliation:

1. Oil cleanser - I double cleanse nightly, but also some mornings when I feel like it.  For now, I am finishing up the Boscia cleansing oil that I bought on sale and will definitely not repurchase! The scent is too strong for me to think that my sense of smell is usually tolerant to fragrance. My staple oil cleanser which I absolutely love is DHC cleansing oil, and I always have this on-hand.
2. Foam wash - I use Cerave Foaming Facial wash for my second cleanse.
3. Essence - SK-II Facial Treatment Essence. My holy grail. I love this stuff so much that I'm on my 5th bottle and counting. I put it on before the toner I am currently using because it is thinner than the next product. 3 layers on problem areas.
4. Toner - Pyunkang Yul Essence Toner. This toner is best for the 7-skin method. Rather than doing 7 skins, 3-4 applications keeps my skin hydrated enough. Here's my review on this toner.
5. Serum - The Ordinary Buffet + The Ordinary Niacinamide
6. Moisturizer & SPF - Less 1 step for me because I am currently using Cerave AM lotion with SPF. Note: The SPF on it isn't high. For days that I need a stronger SPF, I switch to Neutrogena.

Morning routine w/ exfoliation (2-3x/week):

1. Oil cleanser - Same as above. Not daily. Boscia cleansing oil. Will go back to DHC once I finish with Boscia.
2. Foam wash - Cerave Foaming Facial Wash
3. Exfoliate - Neostrata Oily Skin Solution (Glycolic acid); "Formulated to exfoliate, clarify and help tighten pores. This high-strength AHA formula is designed to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles."
4. Essence - SK-II Facial Treatment Essence. My holy grail. 3 layers on problem areas.
5. Toner - Pyunkang Yul Essence Toner. Here's my review on this toner.
6. Serum - Innisfree Green Tea Seed Serum. Why this? I feel like after exfoliating, my skin needs nourishing and pampering. This feels and smells great!
7. Moisturizer & SPF - Cerave AM lotion with SPF.

Evening routine:

1. Oil cleanser - Every night. Boscia cleansing oil first.
2. Foam wash - Followed by Cerave Foaming Facial Wash. 
3. Essence - SK-II Facial Treatment Essence. My holy grail. 3 layers on problem areas.
4. Toner - Pyunkang Yul Essence Toner. This toner is best for the 7-skin method. Rather than doing 7 skins, 3-4 applications keeps my skin hydrated enough. Here's a review on this toner.
5. Essence - COSRX Advanced Snail 96 mucin power essence for extra hydration 
6. Serum - The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin with Ascorbic Acid 
7. Oil - The Ordinary 100% Plant Derived Squalene
8. Moisturizer -  The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA or Hada Labo Goku Jyun  Hyaluronic Acid Cream 

Facial mask/ sheet - I'm not much of a fan but I use them every now and then. Once a week usually, not in between the whole routine but whenever I feel like relaxing. Currently, I have a stash of Lululun sheet masks.

Eye Serum - I don't use any eye serum at the moment but looking to purchase Benton eye cream soon. Currently, I use SK-II Facial Treatment Essence around my eyes because the product is very gentle yet effective! 

XOXO,

Val

Other related articles:

1. 7 Skin Method
2. Review: Pyunkang Yul - Essence Toner

3. Step 1-2: Double Cleansing
4. Review: COSRX - Clear Fit Master Patch

* All products are lovingly purchased with my own money for personal consumption, and in no way sponsored by any of the skincare brands. All reviews and information are based on personal experience with the products. For the most part, I research a LOT before buying. However, some items I happily purchase spontaneously even without prior research, such as those on markdown/sales if you get what I mean. 😁

* The blog has referral links that you can use when you decide to buy. Thanking you in advance! 

This benefits both of us, as it will give each one a form of reward. E.g. discounts/credits. Yasss!!! 

Lastly, I hope the information on this page is able to help in your skincare journey. 😊

Link to YesStyle discount code: https://ystyle.co/KDXU

Review: The Ordinary Brand

The Ordinary brand has definitely made its mark in the beauty industry. In such a short time, the brand has gained a massive following. Dermatologists, aestheticians, bloggers, and customers alike  continue to patronize TO products and other brands under Deceim for good reason.

Luckily I was able to purchase the products on my list directly from Deceim, during their sitewide sale last November 2019.

The skin concerns I wanted to address were large pores, skin texture, fine lines, sun spots, acne, and aging.

My list:

• Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
• Buffet
• Ascorbic Acid 8% + Alpha Arbutin 2%
• 100% Plant-derived Squalene
• Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA

What to love about The Ordinary:

• Highly competitive price points - The prices are very affordable making it possible for the customer to purchase and try a variety of products.
• Ingredients in each product are simple and provides direct to the point solutions 
• After sales & customer service are excellent! Simply send an email for a routine or which products needed for your concern.
• Wide variety of products with treatments/solutions for various skin concerns
• Reviews and information readily available online

XOXO,
Val

--

Other related articles:

1. Review: Pyunkang Yul - Essence Toner

2. Step 1-2: Double Cleansing

3. Review: COSRX - Clear Fit Master Patch

* All products are lovingly purchased with my own money for personal consumption, and in no way sponsored by any of the skincare brands. All reviews and information are based on personal experience with the products. For the most part, I research a LOT before buying. However, some items I happily purchase spontaneously even without prior research, such as those on markdown/sales if you get what I mean. 😁

* The blog has referral links that you can use when you decide to buy. Thanking you in advance! 

This benefits both of us, as it will give each one a form of reward. E.g. discounts/credits. Yasss!!! 

Lastly, I hope the information on this page is able to help in your skincare journey. 😊

Link to YesStyle discount code: https://ystyle.co/KDXU