Herbivore Emerald Hemp Seed Deep Moisture Glow Oil Review

Have you ever been excited about a product you bought it the day it was released, only to be disappointed by it? Yup, that’s my entire relationship with Herbivore in a nutshell. 

I love the idea behind the Herbivore brand. I love that they’re clean, natural, use recycled glass and minimal plastic, and their products! They seem like a dream, don’t they? 

I should’ve known it was too good to be true when I tried their Pink Cloud Rosewater Moisture Creme. It was an oily, thick mess, and one day, I opened the jar only to find black mold in it. What a terrible joke Herbivore played on me. 

But I refused to give up and persevered onwards. When Herbivore was still a new brand, they only had a few products in their lineup, and I tried every single one of them. Over the years, back before I knew better, and when I was still buying into Herbivore’s hype, I tried all of their facial oils. It’s about damn time I review them, right? 

Enter Herbivore’s Emerald Deep Moisture Glow Oil. The first problem I noticed right away but refused to accept: the oil’s colour is nowhere near what the Herbivore’s photos look like. If you go on Herbivore’s website, the photo is a deep, gorgeous green. My oil looked like a watery, pastel green that over the year, changed to a blueish-green. The colour aside, I was still excited to use it. 

The oil is supposed to be nourishing and fantastic for dry and dull skin, adding a glow to the skin when used. Plus, hemp oil is good for the skin and known for its calming effects. 

What a disappointment this oil was. I should note before I begin the review that Herbivore (like Drunk Elephant) has a cult following. If you buy into their hype, I guarantee you’ll like their products. If you don’t buy into the hype and gimmicks, their products are mediocre or okay, at best. But that’s like every brand and our reviews, right? They’re subjective. I just noticed on Sephora’s site that some reviews were written in a heavily subjective voice by people that love the gimmicks and hype. 

I used these products when I loved Herbivore so this review is a balance between my past self that loved Herbivore and my present self that doesn’t care about the brand anymore. Even though I don’t care about Herbivore, I hate to admit this, but I still want to love their products and buy into their hype. I’ve even tried a few of their newer products too! But each time, Herbivore disappoints me. And yet, I’m still tempted by them. Does that make me foolish or a masochist? 

The Specifics:

Brand: Herbivore 

Claims: “Deep moisture meets flash absorption in this skin calming and seriously moisturizing blend of Omega-fatty-acid-rich and skin-soothing Hemp Seed Oil plus Adaptogens including Shiitake Mushroom and Ashwagandha Root.” (x) 

Ingredients: Squalane, Cannabis Sativa (Hemp) Seed Oil, Caprylic /Capric Triglyceride (MCT/Fractionated Coconut Oil), Withania Somnifera (Ashwagandha) Leaf Extract (and) Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil & Lentinus Edodes (Shiitake) Extract, Limnanthes Alba (Meadowfoam) Seed Oil, Borago Ocinalis, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Proprietary Blend of Pure Essential Oils and Absolutes, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract (and) Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract (and) Amino Esters-1 (ex Mimosa Tenuiflora) (and) Coccinia Indica Fruit Extract (and) Solanum Melongena (Eggplant) Fruit Extract (and) Aloe Barbadensis Flower Extract (and) Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract (and) Ocimum Basilicum (Basil) Flower/Leaf Extract (and) Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract (and) Corallina Ocinalis Extract.

Affordability: I paid $63.00 CDN for 30ml/1oz. Herbivore is not an affordable brand, by any means. I wouldn’t mind paying that price for a facial oil if it was effective. This oil was not worth the price tag (just like a lot of Herbivore products), especially when the third ingredient is Caprylic /Capric Triglycerides (which I consider to be a filler and comedogenic, despite it being emollient). The first ingredient is squalane, while good for the skin, is cheap and yet again, not worth the price tag. 

Condition of my skin: Some days my skin is dehydrated, and other days, it’s in good condition. I have combination sensitive skin with dry cheeks and an oily t-zone. 

Skin prep: Double cleanse, toner, serums (optional), and eye cream. 

How do I use this product?: After double cleansing and using a toner, I would sometimes use a serum. I’ve both used serums under the oil and without them too. 

Smell: A light grassy hemp scent. 

Texture: A thicker facial oil, similar to the viscosity of Rose Hip Seed Oil. 

How does it leave my face?: I’m on the fence about this oil. While it left my skin glowy, I know it was because the oil didn’t fully absorb and just sat on my face. This oil, unlike what Herbivore says (“flash absorption”), doesn’t sink into the skin. It just sits there, and you end up looking like a greasy (glowy) mess. 

How does my face feel afterward?: The oil doesn’t sink into the skin, so of course, my skin was greasy and glowy. My skin felt soft, but that was it. The next morning, my skin didn’t appear radiant or glowing and looked normal. 

Does it meet its claims/results?: Not really. It didn’t soothe my skin, did nothing for my redness, nor did it absorb into my skin. Regardless of me gently rubbing the oil into my face, it became a thin film on my skin. 

Love or hate?:  I don’t want to hate this oil, but I certainly don’t like it. It wasn’t fun to use, it did nothing for my skin, and it was overpriced. What I truly hate about this oil (and about brands like Herbivore) is that they have a hefty price tag while using fillers such as Caprylic /Capric Triglycerides. Caprylic /Capric Triglycerides is not good for oily/combination skin (it’s comedogenic) as it can cause blackheads and the fact that this is marketed towards those with combination skin is a no for me. 

Repurchase: Heck no. 

Recommend: No. I do not recommend this oil. There are better facial oils on the market that address sensitized, red, dry, and combination skin types. Unless you’re dying to try this oil and don’t mind the price tag, I would stay away. I know this review won’t sway those that swear by Herbivore but those on the fence about the brand and this oil, I hope you make an informed decision before purchasing it. 

Final thoughts: What a colossal disappointment. The Emerald oil was the last straw for me. I kept trying to love it, but it did nothing for my skin, other than leaving it oily and glowy (from the oil). This is a very basic oil that does not deserve the price tag. 

• doesn’t fully absorb into the skin
• leaves a light oily film on the skin
• doesn’t reduce redness 
• contains Caprylic /Capric Triglycerides
• fragrance-free
• good for dry skin
• minimal plastic

The Ordinary 100% L-Ascorbic Acid Powder Review

If you’ve been following my blog lately, you know my skincare routine involves many The Ordinary products. I’m a fan. Okay, I’m fanatical about The Ordinary. I could write post after post about my love for them and their products, how I use their products, etc. But I won’t bore you with that. 

I’ve tried almost all of their products and use most of them in rotation. It’s easy to overdo it and damage your skin by trying all of the products at the same time (trust me on this one, okay?), so start slow. Patience is key. 

I was most excited to try one of their Vitamin C products but they offer a large variety and I wasn’t sure where to begin. Vitamin C is fantastic for the skin. It’s an antioxidant (protects the skin from free radicals done by UV damage), good for pigmentation, brightens the skin, and fights signs of aging. It’s great for everything. 

I’ve previously tried Drunk Elephant’s C-Firma Vitamin C Day Serum and hated it. I then cursed all Vitamin C products and refused to use them for years. The serum was an oily, oxidized mess. It was both wet and greasy at the same time, it oxidized to bright orange (for Vitamin C products, the efficacy wanes when the product turns yellow/orange), and it burned my skin. It was awful. 

Two years ago, I stumbled upon The Ordinary and saw the variety of Vitamin C products they offer. I decided to give Vitamin C another try. I first started with a low dose to ease myself into it. I tried one of their Vitamin C serums (Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution 12%) and liked it. But after a while, I wanted something stronger. 

Enter The Ordinary’s 100% Vitamin C powder, the 100% L-Ascorbic Acid Powder. It’s a fine powder that must be mixed with a liquid to create an emulsion. It’s not for the faint of heart, and yes, it makes me feel like a chemist when I use it. It’s the most effective, non-filler Vitamin C product I’ve tried, and I refuse to go back. 

The Specifics:

Brand: The Ordinary 

Claims: “L-Ascorbic Acid powder that visibly targets the appearance of uneven skin tone, dullness, and signs of aging.” (x) 

Ingredients: Ascorbic Acid

Affordability: I paid $5.80 CDN for 1oz/30ml of powder. Honestly, this will last me a lifetime, considering you only use a 1/4 scoop (which they provide). Compared to other Vitamin C serums, this is affordable and worth the price tag. Don’t tell The Ordinary, but I would gladly pay more for this product. 

Condition of my skin: I’ve used this product on blemished skin, and it tingles. I recommend using it when your skin has no open scabs or blemishes. 

Skin prep: I double cleanse, use a toner and then use this product. Alternatively, I use a sheet mask after toning and then use this product. 

How do I use this product?: Since this is a powder, it must be mixed with a liquid. The Ordinary recommends starting with a 1/8 scoop and then moving up to a 1/4 scoop once your skin gains tolerance. I tried using this powder with facial oils and found it doesn’t sink into my skin as I would prefer. 

Here’s my fool-proof emulsion: 

• 1/4 scoop of powder (do not exceed 1/4 of a scoop)
• 3 drops of The Ordinary’s Resveratrol 3% + Ferulic Acid 3%
• 3 drops of The Ordinary’s 100% Plant-Derived Squalane
• 2-3 drops of The Ordinary’s Amino Acids + B5
• 2 pumps of COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence

Use immediately! Don’t premix this ahead of time or make a large batch. This must be used as soon as you mix everything together. I place all of the ingredients in the palm of my (clean) hand and stir until amalgamated and no powder remains. Then I rub my hands together and gently pat this mixture all over my face and neck (not my eye area), and finish off my routine with a moisturizer. I know the efficacy of Vitamin C decreases when mixed with a water-based serum, but I found this recipe works well for me. 

On their site, The Ordinary lists what products can and cannot be used with this powder. Since this is strong, it can only be used with a handful of their offerings. Make sure to check beforehand what this powder can be used with. I stick with with their Resveratrol serum and am happy with the results. 

Smell: No scent

Texture: A fine white powder. When suspended with liquid, it disappears into the liquid. 

How does it leave my face?: This powder is magic. It instantly brightens my face and reduces the look of my pigmented spots. I will never get over how my face looks when I use this powder in my emulsion. My skin becomes bright and radiant. 

How does my face feel afterward?: The powder (when suspended in the emulsion) brightens my face, making it radiant. My skin becomes softer, more supple, and hydrated. It also smooths the texture of my skin. 

Does it meet its claims/results?: Yes! I rarely try a product that is effective and does exactly what it claims. The results were borderline miraculous. 

Love or hate?:  Love! Absolute adore this powder. That being said, I also think the ingredients in the emulsion boost the efficacy of this product. I also love the fact that this product is in a glass container with a metal lid. I think it’s better than using plastic and the container is UV protected packaging. I’m a fan of The Ordinary’s simplistic aesthetics, their glass bottles with minimal plastic, and no fragrance/fillers. This product is yet another example of simple but effective.

Repurchase: Yes. However, the amount of powder in the glass container will last me a long time. I doubt I will have to repurchase this product any time soon. 

Recommend: I cannot recommend this power enough. It’s effective, free-of fillers, layers well beneath other skincare products, makeup, and sunscreen. However, if you have sensitive skin, I recommend starting with The Ordinary’s other (lower strength) Vitamin C products and slowly work your way up to this one. This stuff is strong and for the first few weeks of usage, you’ll feel a slight tingle on your face. Don’t be worried, your skin will gain a tolerance to the product. If you’re on the fence about Vitamin C or are looking for a different Vitamin C product, I recommend this powder. 

Final thoughts: I’m so glad I dove back into Vitamin C and never fully gave up on it. After the failure and awfulness of the Drunk Elephant’s Vitamin C serum, this powder seems like it came down from the heavens. Am I being overly dramatic? Yes. But the results and how amazing my face looks after using this powder is borderline miraculous and impressive. Once again, The Ordinary has delivered impressive results! 

• wears well beneath skincare, makeup, and sunscreen
• doesn’t pill or cause other products to pill
• no fillers
• fragrance-free
• affordable
• effective
• in a glass, UV protected container
• comes with a scoop 
• must be mixed with liquids
• strong Vitamin C 
• doesn’t oxidize or lose efficacy in its packaging
• will last a while 

This Morning’s Skincare Routine

Products left to right:

• The Ordinary 100% L-Ascorbic Acid Powder
• The Ordinary Amino Acids + B5
• The Ordinary 100% Plant-Derived Squalane
• The Ordinary Resveratrol 3% + Ferulic Acid 3%
• Homemade Green Tea + Witch Hazel Toner
• COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid
• COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence
• Biossance Squalane + Marine Algae Eye Cream
• Volition Oceanene Youth-Boost Gel

My routine: double cleansed, green tea toner, BHA Power Liquid on my nose, L-Ascorbic Acid Powder + Snail Mucin + Squalane + Amino Acids + Resveratrol emulsion on my face and neck, eye cream, Youth-Boost Gel.

Good morning!

Tonight’s Skincare Routine

Products left to right:

• COSRX Cica Toner
• COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid
• COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence
• The Ordinary Amino Acids + B5
• The Ordinary 100% Plant Derived Squalane
• The Ordinary Alpha Lipoic Acid 5%
• The Ordinary 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil
• Dr. Jart+ Ceramidin Cream
• La Roche Posay Redermic R Eyes

What I did: Double cleansed, BHA Blackhead Power Liquid on my nose as a toner, Cica Toner all over, Amino Acids + Snail Mucin, Redermic R eye cream, Squalane + Alpha Lipoic Acid + Rose Hip Seed Oil, Ceramidin Cream.

Have a goodnight!

Skinfix Barrier+ Foaming Oil Cleanser Review

I double cleanse. I’m almost fanatical about double-cleansing. Years ago, and it pains me to admit this, but I used to only wash my face with a cleanser, and that was it. It wasn’t until I started reading more about skincare and Korean skincare routines that I stumbled upon double-cleansing. 

I once tried a cleansing oil that broke me out, and I gave up on double-cleansing. I thought, “why am I putting oil on my already oily face?” But now I know. It takes oil to wash away oil, grime, dirt, makeup, and sunscreen. And instead of blaming double-cleansing, I know now it was that specific oil cleanser. So I tried other brands. I mistakenly bought one from Miniso, and it was awful. It left the dreaded ‘oily residue’ behind on my face, smelled like plastic, and didn’t remove my makeup or sunscreen. 

I found my favourite oil cleanser from The Face Shop (shoutout to Rice Water Bright Light Cleansing Oil). However, I can only purchase it from eBay, and with the pandemic raging and our mail carrier overwhelmed, I gave up on it (for now). 

I needed something accessible, easy to find, and something that wouldn’t leave an oily residue behind. Enter Skinfix’s Barrier+ Foaming Oil Cleanser!

The Specifics:

Brand: Skinfix

Claims: “This 98-percent naturally-derived formula is clinically proven to support natural hydration, smooth the look of uneven texture, reduce the appearance of blotchiness, and visibly reduce redness. This velvety cleanser effectively removes dirt and makeup without stripping skin.” (x) 

Ingredients: Water/Eau/Aqua, Glycerin, Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Sodium Lauroamphoacetate, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Glycol Distearate, Betaine, Sodium Hyaluronate, Panthenol, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Gluconolactone, Jojoba Oil/Macadamia Seed Oil Esters, Squalene, Phytosteryl Macadamiate, Phytosterols, Tocopherol, Chondrus Crispus Extract, Hydroxypropyl Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Ethylhexylglycerin, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Propanediol, Xanthan Gum, Coconut Acid, Citric Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Chloride, Benzoic Acid, Sodium Benzoate.

Affordability: I paid $38 CDN for 177ml/6oz. I thought it was a little expensive for what I would normally pay for a cleansing oil, but it’s been seven months and I still have almost half a bottle left. I think for the amount needed for your face versus the price tag, it’s worth it. 

Condition of my skin: I’ve used this cleanser on broken skin, blemished skin, dehydrated skin, and skin in good condition. I’ve also used this cleanser after slathering my face in heavy oils and creams the night before and sunscreen. 

Skin prep: I dampen my face. 

How do I use this product?: I only need 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of this cleanser. I rub my hands together to create a lathering foam and gently massage it into my damp face for 30 seconds. After 30 seconds, I wash it off. I use it on my face, eye area, and neck. 

Smell: Fragrance-free!

Texture: Unlike regular cleansing oils, this one looks like a milky gel cleanser. It’s thicker than oil but thinner than a gel cleanser. It’s an oil/gel hybrid. 

How does it leave my face?: Clean and refreshed. 

How does my face feel afterward?: It leaves my face smooth, soft, and clean without stripping my face and making it feel painfully dry. I was hesitant to use this product on my eyes because they’re sensitive, but this cleanser didn’t aggravate them or make them sting. 

Does it meet its claims/results?: Yes! I can honestly say that this oil cleanser is fantastic and effective. It doesn’t aggravate my (sometimes) sensitized skin, and it effectively removes dirt and grime without leaving a greasy residue behind. 

Love or hate?: I absolutely love this product. I love the fact that it’s free from “fragrance, parabens, sulfates, formaldehyde, phthalates, silicones, lanolin, petrolatum, propylene glycol, PEGs, gluten”(x), and it’s great for all skin types. The bottle will last me almost a year (or longer), helps clear out my pores (preventing blackheads), and is effective. It has become my favourite cleansing oil.  

Repurchase: Yes. I’d like to try other cleansing oils, but I will be keeping this in my skincare repertoire. 

Recommend: I cannot recommend this product enough! If you’re looking for a cleansing oil, new to cleansing oils, are afraid of washing your face with oils, don’t want to break out from using oils, have very dry or sensitive skin, etc., I recommend this product. Overall, I recommend you give this product a try. 

Final thoughts: I’m glad I stumbled upon this oil cleanser. I’m new to Skinfix, but I enjoy the efficacies, the streamlined and neat packaging, the free from fragrance and parabens, etc. of their products. Though the formula and feel of this oil cleanser are different than regular oil cleansers, this product is just as good as my absolute favourite Rice Water Bright Light Cleansing Oil. 

• free from fragrance, parabens, sulfates, formaldehyde
• cruelty-free
• leaves skin soft and supple without drying the skin
• is gentle but effectively removes sunscreen 
• a lot of product in the bottle
• good for all skin types
• non-irritating
• doesn’t leave a greasy residue behind

On the trail…

Biossance Squalane + Marine Algae Eye Cream Review

I’m always on the hunt for good and reliable eye creams. I’m convinced there is an eye cream out there that will have me singing its praises and feel as though it were sent down from the heavens. 

I also have sensitive eyes, a line/wrinkle under each eye, under-eye dryness, wear contacts/glasses, and am prone to milia under my eyes. I need an eye cream that will moisturize my under-eye area without migrating into my eyes and making them burn. 

Over the years, I’ve learned there is a balance between moisturizing, milia-inducing, and seeping into my eyes. I’ve tried brands such as Clinique, La Roche-Posay, Shiseido, Skinfix, and now Biossance. 

Biossance is a clean brand, and I find them alluring. They use good ingredients, their products seem effective, and I know what I’m getting when I try their products. 

I’ve tried Biossance’s Squalane + Peptide Eye Gel and was not happy with it. Though it felt amazing around my eye area, it caused the dreaded milia, and I had to give it away. It had a cooling and refreshing feel as I dabbed it into my eyes but damn, the milia were not worth it. 

So I dived back in and tried this eye cream, hoping that it would be my holy grail eye cream. 

The Specifics:

Brand: Biossance

Claims: “Our latest innovation in eye cream pairs the power of marine algae and paracress extract for maximum performance. The result? A lifted look that also reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. This marine algae eye cream’s melt-in texture delivers deep hydration and a perfect canvas for makeup. Instantly lifts, firms, and smooths the look of skin.” (x) 

Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Squalane, Glycerin, Sorbitan Olivate, Cetearyl Olivate, Jojoba Esters, Glyceryl Stearate SE, Panthenol, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Cetyl Palmitate, Spilanthes Acmella Flower Extract, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5, Sorbitan Palmitate, Dunaliella Salina Extract, Astaxanthin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Tocopherol, Citric Acid.

Affordability: $71 CDN for 15ml/.05oz. I find this expensive and on the high-end of the affordability scale. Considering there is Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride listed as the second ingredient, I am not impressed. I find brands use Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride as a filler (though it is emollient), and my skin hates it. I’m disappointed to find that ingredient in such an expensive eye cream. 

Condition of my skin: The skin beneath my eyes is dry, and when dehydrated, the line beneath each eye becomes more pronounced. 

Skin prep: Double cleansed. 

How do I use this product?: I dab the cream around my eye area in the morning and evening. 

Smell: No scent. 

Texture: A light pink thick and rich cream. Though it’s thick, it sinks into my skin and is easily spreadable. 

How does it leave my face?: It is very moisturizing and sinks into my skin. 

How does my face feel afterward?: My under-eye area stays well hydrated, but I would like it to be a tad more hydrating as the hours go by. It’s not streaky and wears well under other skincare products, sunscreen, and makeup. 

Does it meet its claims/results?: I wish I could say yes but it doesn’t. I found it doesn’t meet its claims and the results are disappointing. It doesn’t “instantly lift”, firm or smooth my eye area. 

Love or hate?:  I like this eye cream, but there are too many cons for me to love it. I love that it doesn’t migrate into my eyes or causes milia! I like the packaging; you can tell that this is from a mid-range luxury brand. The feel of the lid and tub of the cream is weighted, and the box is simple but beautiful. I love the packaging, and there is no excessive plastic or wastage. It’s fantastic that the squalane is plant-derived and not animal derived too. But I hate that there is Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride listed as the second ingredient and I hate the price tag. 

Repurchase: I’m on the fence about repurchasing this eye cream. I would repurchase this cream during a sale because it’s a steady, good cream, but I’m hesitant to buy it at full price. 

Recommend: If you love Biossance, want a clean eye cream, and want something great for sensitive and milia-prone eyes, sure. But be warned, it’s not a miraculous eye cream that will save you from fine lines. Also, don’t break your wallet over this eye cream. 

Final thoughts: Despite my disappointment that the results were less than stellar, I do like this eye cream. It doesn’t sting my eyes, layers well beneath makeup and sunscreen, and doesn’t cause milia. I like that it’s from a clean brand but c’mon, Biossance, take out the Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride! Overall, it’s a moisturizing eye cream, but that’s all that it is. 

• non-irritating
• doesn’t cause milia
• wears well under sunscreen and makeup
• fragrance-free
• doesn’t migrate into the eyes
• good for those that wear contact lenses
• moisturizing
• plant-derived squalane
• contains Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
• expensive

The Inkey List Tranexamic Acid Hyperpigmentation Treatment Review

I have a few hyperpigmented spots and dark spots. It’s a tad embarrassing to admit, but I have to be honest. I currently use niacinamide, alpha arbutin, vitamin c, retinol, glycolic acid, and other actives in my skincare routine. 

While I have noticed an overall brightening effect and smooth texture of my skin, the stubborn spots on my face are still there. Sure, they fade a tad and don’t get worse, but they’re still there, mocking me. 

Tranexamic acid is new to me but not new to skincare. It’s known for combating dark spots, brightening, and evening out skin tone and texture. I am a huge fan of The Ordinary; most of the skincare products I currently use are from them. I find their products effective, low on filler, direct, and affordable. However, they do not offer Tranexamic acid in their lineup (I wish they would!). 

I’m new to The Inkey, and I heard great things about their products. So when I found out they sell Tranexamic acid, I knew I had to try it out. 

The Specifics:

Brand: The Inkey List

Claims: “This overnight treatment targets hyperpigmentation, uneven patches, and dark spots. It brightens your skin’s complexion, as well as aids the reduction of dark spots and uneven skin tone. Formulated with 2% Tranexamic Acid, 2% Acai Berry extract to promote even skin tone, as well as 2% skin brightening hero Vitamin C, it also boosts overall skin brightness and evens skin tone.” (x) 

Ingredients: Aqua (Water/ Eau), Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Ascorbyl Glucoside, Tranexamic Acid, Euterpe Oleracea Fruit Extract, 1-Methylhydanto- in-2-Imide, Sodium Acrylates Copolymer, Phenoxyethanol, Carbomer, Sodium Hydroxide, Cetearyl Olivate, Benzyl Alcohol, Sorbitan Olivate, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Lecithin, Squalane, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Gluconate, Polysorbate 60, Dehydroacetic Acid, Lactobacillus Ferment, Sorbitan Isostearate.

Affordability: $18.99 CDN for 1oz/30ml. 

Condition of my skin: I have a few spots of hyperpigmentation and from sun damage. I also have a few healing blemishes on my cheeks. 

Skin prep: Double cleanse, homemade green tea and witch hazel toner, sheet mask, eye cream, The Ordinary Amino Acids + B5 serum, snail mucin, COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid on my nose. 

How do I use this product?:  I use this product as the last step in my evening routine, omitting facial oils and moisturizers. The Inkey instructs consumers to use this product as the last step and not use any other product atop it. I use two full pumps to cover my face and neck area.

Smell: I am not a fan of the scent of this product. It smells of burnt rubber, the interior of a new car, and plastic. The scent fades as it absorbs into the skin, but I find it overwhelming. 

Texture: A thick clear gel. 

How does it leave my face?: Once absorbed into the skin, it leaves the face matte and dry. I found it to be a tad drying the first few times I used this product, but I learned to really hydrate my skin before using this. If you have dry skin, I would recommend using a sheet mask, hyaluronic acid, and other hydrators beneath this treatment. 

How does my face feel afterward?: The next morning, my face feels soft. 

Does it meet its claims/results?: This treatment did brighten and even out my skin tone. It didn’t erase my dark spots but it did lighten them. I ran out of product and was waiting for my second bottle to arrive in the mail and noticed that the lightening effect stopped immediately after stopping this treatment. To see great results, I have a feeling you’d have to continually use this product every night forever. I did with my first bottle but now I alternate with other actives at night. 

Love or hate?:  I like this product but I don’t love it. I like the feel of the gel and the fact that this is marketed as ‘Tranexamic Acid’ with no fillers. What I hate is the plastic packaging. I’m used to glass bottles and minimal plastic packaging with my skincare products but I find this product to have excessive plastic tubing. I also don’t like the fact that I can’t see how much product I have remaining in the bottle/tube like I can with The Ordinary products. I know, I know. I’m not comparing the companies but I have my preferences. 

Repurchase: Yes. This is the only Tranexamic product on the market (that I’m aware of) that is affordable and easily accessible with no hidden fillers or weird ingredients. I’m already on my second bottle and will continue to repurchase this treatment when I run out. 

Recommend: Yes, I recommend this product but don’t expect instant or miraculous results. It takes time and patience to see small results. If you have dry skin, I recommend you hydrate your skin before using this treatment. I do think this product would be good for all skin types and I have even used this treatment on blemished and broken skin and found it to be non-irritating. 

Final thoughts: I’m on my second bottle, and I’m still on the fence about this treatment. I like it but I’m not in love with it. I know many people on Reddit and in Sephora reviews have raved great things about this treatment but I haven’t had miraculous or fantastic results yet. After regular use, I found my skin tone was more even and brighter. This doesn’t reduce or completely fade dark spots but it does prevent them from becoming darker. For that reason, I will continue to use this treatment. 

• mattifying gel texture 
• brightens and evens out skin tone
• doesn’t reduce the look of dark spots but minimally fades them with continued use
• doesn’t pill and layers well on top of other skincare products
• is non-irritating
• smells of burnt rubber and plastic
• plastic packaging

Mask of the Week: Holika Holika Pure Essence Rice Mask Sheet Review

Rice in skincare isn’t new and an ingredient I love (both to eat and use on my face). Skin softening, collagen-boosting, texture-smoothing, and brightening, rice does it all! 

I bought Holika Holika’s Pure Rice Essence Sheet Mask because 1) I like rice and 2) I liked the packaging. I’ve said it so many times before, but I’m a sucker for good packaging. I’ve previously tried a Holika Holika sheet mask and wasn’t that impressed by it. Sure, it was hydrating, but that was it. I was hoping this mask was different, and it was! 

The Specifics:

Condition of my skin: Textured and dry from using retinol the night before. 

Skin Prep: Double cleansed and prepped my skin with a tea tree toner. 

Brand: Holika Holika

Claims: “A brightening sheet mask. Lightening dark spots, Pure Essence Mask Sheet Rice brightens the complexion and fights pigmentation. Suitable for sensitive skin, the nourishing sheet mask soaks the skin with gentle, moisturizing ingredients for increased elasticity and smoothness with reduced irritation.” (x) 

Ingredients: Water, Dipropylene Glycol, Glycerin, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Butylene Glycol, Centella Asiatica Extract, Paeonia Suffruticosa Root Extract, 1,2-Hexanediol, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Arginine, Glyceryl Caprylate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Glyceryl Acrylate/Acrylic Acid Copolymer, Glycine Max (Soybean) Seed Extract, Propylene Glycol, PVM/MA Copolymer, Citrus Sinensis Peel Oil Expressed, Viola Tricolor Extract, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower Extract, Centaurea Cyanus Flower Extract, Pogostemon Cablin Oil, Lavandula angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Disodium EDTA

Affordability: I paid under $2.00 CDN for this mask on eBay, and I think it’s worth the price. For what it did for my skin, under two dollars was a steal. 

Smell: This is where the mask betrayed me. The essence smelled very strongly of medicinal herbs. I found it overwhelming, and the scent didn’t dissipate. 

Texture of the essence/serum: The essence was clear and slightly viscous. The essence was non-tacky and absorbed into the skin. The mask held a lot of essence but wasn’t dripping with it, and there was essence leftover in the pouch. 

Texture/material of the sheet mask: The material of the mask was thin and almost translucent fabric. It contoured my face better than other sheet masks I’ve used and didn’t need to be readjusted. It held the essence well. 

Duration: I wore the mask for 20 minutes. 

Does it meet its claims: Once I took off the sheet mask and looked in the mirror, I was in awe. Sure, the results weren’t miraculous, but they were still impressive. The texture of my skin was smoother, plump, and well hydrated, and my face was radiant. Regarding dark spots, I’ve never met a mask or skincare product that immediately lightens dark spots and hyperpigmentation so I wasn’t expecting it to address those issues. 

What I like: I like how effective the sheet mask was. My face was so smooth, soft, radiant, and supple. My other skincare products glided on effortlessly, and the essence wasn’t tacky. 

What I don’t like: The scent threw me off. I didn’t like it. It was too strong and overpowering; I’m not a fan of medicinal herby smells. Though the scent was strong, it wasn’t irritating on my skin. 

Repurchase: Yes, I would gladly repurchase this mask and would love to try out the other varieties in the lineup. I’m curious to see if they’re as effective as this sheet mask. 

Recommend: I highly recommend this sheet mask. Regardless of your skin type, I think this mask will suit everyone. It was hydrating without being heavy, and it smoothed and softened the skin and left it radiant. It was a wonderful sheet mask to use. 

Final thoughts: I went into using this sheet mask with no preconceived notions. I was tired and looking forward to relaxing for twenty minutes before getting on with my day. At first, I was going to rate this mask a 4.5 because the scent was so overpowering. But after seeing the effects it had on my skin, the rating got bumped up to a 5. 

Rating: 5/5

• softened the skin
• left the skin more radiant
• very hydrating
• mask contoured well to the face
• layered well under other skincare products 
• didn’t leave the face tacky
• strong medicinal herbaceous scent 

Tonight’s Skincare Routine

From left to right:

• MEDIHEAL Acai Berry Vita Sheet Mask
• Homemade Green Tea and Witch Hazel toner
• COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence
• COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid
• The Ordinary Amino Acids + B5
• The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane
• The Ordinary 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil
• Drunk Elephant Lala Retro Whipped Cream
• La Roche-Posay Redermic R Eyes

How I use these products: double cleanse, BHA Blackhead liquid on my nose, toner, sheet mask, Redermic R eye cream, mix Amino Acids + Retinol in Squalane + Rose Hip Seed Oil + Snail Mucin in an emulsion, Lala Retro cream.

Have a goodnight!