Review: Etude House AC Clinic Intense Hinoki Water Mist

 Just so you know, my skin is dry and flaky beyond all reason. Because of this, I have to layer up my skincare routine. I did my research to find out how I could get as much moisture into my skin as possible. So instead of toner (because I haven't found something that works for me yet) I decided to look into a refreshing mist. That's when I stumbled upon this product. I've been dabbling in Etude House anyway, so I decided to give it a go. It's been about a month since I began using this product, so my skin has had some time to adjust to it So let's get started!

Product Description: This light and refreshing mist containing Hinoki water (Chamaecyparis Obtusa Water) delivers a moisturizing layer over skin, controls sebum, which is one of the causes of acne, and controls dry skin. It also prevents the collection of dead skin, and brightens while cleansing.

How to Use: Spray at about 20cm from face. Pat face with hands until somewhat dry.

Review: The first time I used it I noticed that it had a strong herbally smell. That doesn't bother me, because I like that herbal, organic smell and the smell completely dissipates after a few minutes. However, if you're sensitive to smells, this may not be for you. After spraying it it felt just like I was spraying water on my face. It was nothing to write home about. During the second week I noticed my typical dry skin issues disappear. It didn't do much for my pores, though I don't think its supposed to. It just would have been a nice perk! However, it accomplishes what it says it will accomplish. My skin looks bright, I have no flakes or dry skin issues, it also prevents acne! Keep in mind that it doesn't rid you of any acne, it simply keeps pores clean and moisturized so you keep acne away. Perfect for people trying to control breakouts. As someone with sensitive skin, I can also say that this is safe for sensitive skin. No burning, no drying out - just moisturized and clean skin. I can also confidently say that it evened out my complexion and reduced acne scars. All in all, this stuff is no miracle worker but it is pretty good! Will purchase again!

Rating: 9/10

Korean Skincare Product Review: Etude House Moistfull Collagen Deep Cream Moisturizer

As fall approaches and we ready ourselves for the chillier weather, I wanted to share a review for a very hydrating moisturizer that is intended to rid you of your flaky skin blues.

Product Description: This deep moisturizing cream, enriched with collagen, penetrates deep into pores to provide long lasting moisture.

How To Use: (Note:This product is the last step of your skincare routine) Use the provided applicator stick to apply pea sized amounts to forehead, chin, and cheeks. Rub in cream thoroughly.

Review: Initially, I was pretty apprehensive to use Korean products because my skin is both sensitive and dry (I know, how lucky am I). However, I was advised that Etude House products would be a safe bet due to its moisturizing contents. So I purchased the new and updated formula of Moistfull Collagen Cream, the Deep Cream Moisturizer that came out last year. After it arrived, I immediately noticed that there was an applicator stick so you don't contaminate the cream by putting your fingers into the cream. So hygienic! The first week, I didn't see much improvement. Still had flakes here and there and my skin still looked patchy. After applying the cream for about two weeks, I've noticed some decent improvements! My skin looks hydrated and supple. Since using the cream, I have seen no flakes, no patches, and minimized pores. My skin looks very youthful and glowing!

The cream is not terribly thick, but very creamy. It glides on like silk provides long lasting moisture that is some how also pretty light. I feel as though being lighter is a good thing, since being too heavy could cause clogged pores or white heads. Even on dry skin. I have also noticed that my makeup glides on much more smoothly. No flakes after applying foundation or concealer (the biggest threat) or even highlighter!

Note: This product does not work with only one application. I have observed that a lot of girls think a single product will work miracles for them. They set their expectations astronomically high and are disappointed when they realize that one product alone will not suffice. Korean skincare is meant to be layered. So don't expect one item to be your skins savior. With this in mind, assign at least one product in your routine for dealing with your troubled areas. For example, in addition to dry skin I also have huge pores on my nose. To deal with this, I use Fresh Apple Pore Emulsion to moisturize and close my pores. This moisturizer is only for providing deep hydration and reducing other issues associated with super dry skin.

Rating: 9/10 

I only deducted one point because it takes a couple weeks for the cream to really take affect. So be patient with it!

Korean Skincare Product Review: Etude House Beauty Shot Face Blur

So as you know, I have decided to partake in the Korean makeup sensation to see for myself what it can do for my dry, flaky, skin. I've heard delightful things about how Korean skincare reduced redness, acne, dry patches and dark spots. Immediately I thought, "Well, sign me up!"  Skincare products in the states dry out and irritate my skin, and I was fed up with it. I did my research and figured out a couple products to start with. This particular beauty product is pretty popular in both Korea and the states, so I thought I'd give it a whirl. So lets just jump right in!

Description: The product is a lightweight cream primer that tones skin, soothes flakes away, and hides pores. In essence, its supposed to blur all imperfections to leave your skin looking bright and flawless.

How To Use: Dab a dot on your cheeks, forehead, and chin. Rub the product into your face until the cream is perfectly blended. (When its not blended well, it leaves white streaks)

Review: The product is a very light cream that is almost watery. When I rubbed it into my face, it glided on very smoothly! I really like the light consistency, especially since I am using a pretty heavy moisturizer for my extra dry skin. As a blended the cream in, I noticed that it made my skin appear a shade or two brighter than my natural complexion. It didn't bother me too much, because it didn't look like I was wearing a mask. It look more like a youthful glow. In addition, my acne scars disappeared and my flakiness was no more. It was amazing!

Note: This product is not intended to provide moisture to dry skin. So if you have flakes before you apply the product, you will have them after application. Apply a heavy moisturizer before applying if you have dry, flaky skin like me. I tried to put on the product without moisturizer and the affects were disastrous. My skin looked flaky and patchy! In other words, this product isn't a miracle worker. It adds a lovely glow under your makeup and evens your complexion. That's it! So if you have dry skin, like me, hydrate your skin really well before using this product.

Results: Its been about two weeks since purchasing the product and I can still see the improvements. My skin looks radiant, my complexion looks even, and my makeup glides over it very naturally. It also reduces the look of big pores, which is also a big problem for me. I am very impressed with this product as a primer! Will purchase again!

Rating: 10/10