StyleKorean Advent Calendar - Day1-12
I’m posting the contents of the StyleKorean Advent Calendar for the 1st 12 days! This calendar contains 25 days worth of products- so far ALL full-sized. Unfortunately it is sold out, but I was able to purchase at ~$140 presale price and used points to reduce the cost. I believe the value was over $600, and total retail price of the 1st 12 items comes to $317 so far. Definitely a good deal. I just noticed that there are 26 boxes so I’ll create another list later for Days 13-26
Sharonspendstoomuch
Dry/Resilient
1
Relief Sun Rice + Probiotics SPF50+ PA++++
Day 1 started out strong with the BOJ Relief Sun Rice + Probiotics Sunscreen that retails for $24. It is one of my favorite sunscreens ever!
Sharonspendstoomuch
This is an organic sunscreen enriched with 30% rice extract & grain derived probiotics that deeply hydrates and nourishes skin without a white cast. UV Filters: ☀️Uvinul A Plus: high UVA protection (chemical) ☀️Uvinul T 150: provides UVB protection (chemical) ☀️Tinosorb M: broad spectrum coverage (hybrid) ☀️Uvasorb HEB: Offers UVB and UVA II range coverage (chemical) Other Key Ingredients: ☀️Niaciniamide ☀️Glycerin ☀️Adenosine ☀️Tocopherol ☀️Rice extract ☀️Grain probiotics complex with grain fermenting lysate ingredients Packaging/Texture: ☀️50ml tube with white cap, comes sealed ☀️Creamy white texture, no scent ☀️Retails for $18 My Review: I prefer Asian sunscreens as they use newer UV filters that are not approved in the US. The BOJ sunscreen contains 4 of these filters and I have seen several Influencers rave about it all over Instagram. I personally have been using this sunscreen daily for the past 2 weeks. It has a light creamy texture & melts into the skin like a lotion as it dries down. I do not notice a white cast on my skin, but I’m pretty light so darker skin tones may notice one. My skin feels soft and hydrated after applying with no greasy feel. However, my skin leans dry so I use a moisturizer before applying this sunscreen. But if you have oily or combination skin, you may be able to skip moisturizer, especially in the summer months. My skin looks slightly dewy with sort of a semi-matte finish. I did not experience any irritation or burning around my eyes, but my experience may be different than others. I like how there is no noticeable scent – most of the other sunscreens I’ve used have either a medicine or citrus fragrance. It does contain alcohol for that elegant texture found in other Asian sunscreens, so be aware. So far I like this sunscreen but my only complaint is how fast I am going through the tube 😊. Like other Korean sunscreens, it is 50ml but seems smaller. I will continue using before deciding if I would repurchase as I do have other sunscreens I prefer.
BEAUTY OF JOSEON
Relief Sun Rice + Probiotics SPF50+ PA++++
4.6
(1139)
1830
2
The Vitamin C23 Serum
Day 2 - Cosrx Vitamin C23 Serum - retail price $23. This is a good Vitamin C that didn’t irritate my skin and reduced some hyperpigmentation. I like this product, but I don’t like how it has a 2 month shelf life once opened. You only need a small amount and even using daily doesn’t empty it. I had to toss a half full bottle the first time because it was past the PAO.
Sharonspendstoomuch
I was lucky enough to selected by Cosrx to review one of their three new Derm Serums. I was gifted the Vitamin C23 Serum which I have been using for about 12-14 days so far, so this will be more of a 1st impression review. Update 9July: I found out a week after I received the Vitamin C Serum from Cosrx that I had also been chosen for a StyleKorean TMRM promotion & would receive all 3 serums, so I was extra lucky as I had a good first impression of this serum and now I have 2!! This serum is described as a highly concentrated 23% pure vitamin C serum that provides the anti-aging benefits of Vitamin C with minimal irritation. I was excited to try this serum since I have some sensitivity to Vitamin C products with a high percentage of L-ascorbic acid. Claims: ▪️Fades acne & hyperpigmentation ▪️Brightens complexion & evens skin tone ▪️Diminishes fine lines & wrinkles ▪️Firms & plumps skin Key Ingredients: ▪️Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) ▪️Tocotrienols (Super Vitamin E) ▪️Sodium Hyaluronate ▪️Allantoin Packaging: 20ml dark brown bottle with glass pipette Texture: Oil with watery consistency, pale yellow in color. No added fragrance but has the same scent as other Vitamin C products that fades quickly. PAO: 2 Months. It is suggested to refrigerate to maintain freshness My Experience: I’ve been using this in the AM only, before moisturizer and sunscreen. I apply 2-3 drops into my hands and massage into my skin. It is very lightweight, & spreads easily onto the skin. I do feel a slight tingle after application, while it isn’t sticky, it does feel a little tacky on the skin until it fully absorbs. It also layers well with other products, without any pilling. I had heard of Tocopherol (Vit E) before, but not Tocotrienols. I did some research and found out that they are also potent forms of vitamin E that are considered stable and powerful antioxidants. Tocotrienols have skin soothing agents & helps even skin tone. When combined with Vitamin C, it in double the antioxidant ammunition to fight damage from free radicals and more UV damage than products containing vitamin C by itself. Sodium hyaluronate attracts moisture & reduces inflammation. Allantoin soothes and protects the skin & reduces irritation. It also has some other great antioxidant ingredients like 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Caffeine, Tocopherol, Safflower seed oil, & carrot root extract, as well as brightening ingredients like niacinamide & licorice root extract. I have not experienced any burning issues & no irritation so far. I have not noticed any significant improvement in hyperpigmentation yet in the short time I’ have used this serum, but my skin appears brighter & more even toned. I will definitely continue to use to see the long-term effects. UPDATE 9July: I’ve now been using this serum for close to a month (AM only). I’m now using it daily, applying 2-3 drops onto my skin. When I first started using the serum, I did feel a very slight tingle after applying, but don’t notice anything now, other than a slight tacky feel on the skin until it completely absorbs. It does have that funky smell other Vit C products have (meat/iron scent), but I’m used to the scent, and it fades quickly. Packaging reminds me of The Ordinary. I have noticed that my skin looks brighter & more even toned with a smoother texture. I’m also starting to see slight reduction in dark spots as well.
COSRX
The Vitamin C23 Serum
4.5
(142)
162
3
Cotton Soft Sun Stick SPF50+ PA++++
Day 3 - Tocobo Cotton Soft Sun Stick Retail price $22. Another sunscreen but in stick form, great for reapplication! It has a lightweight gel texture that glides onto skin easily, and layers well with other products. I can apply over makeup without too much smudging.
Sharonspendstoomuch
I purchased this sun stick from @stylekorean_global through their Ready Set Glow promotion, which allows you to purchase 3 items for $9.99. I picked the Heimish All Clean Balm cleanser in Mandarin, and the Numbuzin No 3 Skin softening serum, along with this sun stick to try in exchange for my honest review. The Cotton Soft Sun stick provides SPF50+ PA++++ protection and is hypoallergenic, vegan and cruelty free. UV filters: ☀️ Octocrylene ☀️ Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate ☀️ Ethylhexyl Salicylate ☀️ Unival A Plus ☀️ Tinasorb S ☀️ Titanium dioxide Key ingredients: ▪️ Cotton Extract to hydrate ▪️ Herb AC complex- 4 herbs to calm/soothe ▪️ Anti Sebum P - complex that includes evening primrose to provide skin oil balance ▪️ Tocopherol Packaging/Texture: 19gram light blue tube with pale blue gel-like texture. Slight powdery scent My Experience: I’ve seen several rave reviews about this sun stick, so was excited to have the opportunity to try this for myself. The sun stick has a lightweight gel texture that glides onto skin easily. It has no white cast, and provides my skin with a soft matte finish without greasiness. My skin feels soft after applying and I actually do like the powdery scent as it reminds me of fresh linen or just washed cotton. It layers well with my cushion foundation without pilling and the size makes it super easy to carry in your bag for touch ups throughout the day. The container is shaped like a deodorant stick, you just click and apply. I actually use a different sunscreen fir my first application and mainly use this stick for reapplying throughout the day. My only negative is that the shape makes it a little difficult to apply in the nose area. I wish it was curved or slanted on one side to make application a little easier. I recommend for all skin types except maybe if you have any sensitivity to the plant extracts or added fragrance.
Tocobo
Cotton Soft Sun Stick SPF50+ PA++++
4.6
(291)
246
4
All Day Vitamin Brightening & Balancing Facial Serum
Day 4: Jumiso All Day Vitamin Brightening & Balancing Facial Serum - Retails for $24 It is a great serum if you are sensitive to or new to Vitamin C, as it is very gentle on skin. I mix it with the Jumiso All Day Pure 5.5 serum.
Sharonspendstoomuch
I received a Jumiso Special Serum box containing 3 Vitamin C products as part of a TryMeReviewMe promotion through Stylekorean for free in exchange for my honest review. This Serum is a best seller and is a non-water based high concentration and antioxidant-rich brightening serum that evens skin tone and improves skin elasticity. Key Ingredients: 🔸 86.14% Sea Buckthorn extract (Vitamin Tree) 🔸 2% Niacinamide 🔸 Hyaluronic Acid 🔸 Centella Asiatica Extract 🔸 Green Tea Extract 🔸 Licorice Root Extract 🔸 Chamomile Extract 🔸 Ascorbic Acid Packaging/Texture: Comes in an orange 30ml glass bottle with pipette stopper. The serum has a thick, almost gel-like texture and has a mild citrus scent. My Experience: I have been using this serum both AM/PM for about 2 weeks, after cleansing and toning. It is a great serum if you are sensitive to Vitamin C, or if you have never tried Vitamin C before, as it is very gentle on the skin. I have used Vitamin C products in the past, and some of them cause my skin to burn or get irritated, but this one is very soothing and hydrating. The lightweight gel-like texture makes it easy to spread and absorb into the skin without any stickiness. I like how it contains several Vitamin Complexes like A, B, D, E, and K (plus a small amount of Ascorbic Acid aka Vitamin C) to help brighten dull skin and improve skin tone. Sea Buckthorn helps to rebalance the skin by reducing inflammation, and in combination with niacinamide helps to leave skin more radiant, softer and hydrated without irritation. I find that 3-4 drops is enough for the entire face, and it feels quite soothing as it sinks into the skin. Skin looks glowing, but doesn’t look or feel greasy. I’m using this serum as more of a daily antioxidant, and have mixed it with the other 2 Vitamin C serums and other products in my routine with no issues. It really does help to reduce dullness, as I’ve noticed my skin appears more plump, hydrated and nourished after using. I would recommend this serum for all skin types as a beginner-friendly stable product to bring radiance and glow to dull skin. If you use in the daytime, just be sure to apply an SPF as your final skin care step.
Jumiso
All Day Vitamin Brightening & Balancing Facial Serum
4.5
(823)
1660
5
Birch Juice Moisturizing Sun Cream SPF50+ PA++++
Day 5: Round Lab Birch Juice Moisturizing Sun Cream - retail price $28. I love this moisturizing sunscreen! I haven’t posted a review yet but I have tried it before. I purchased 2 boxes in Korea - after searching multiple Olive Young stores as it was out of stock everywhere!
scarlet1
Round Lab Birch Juice Moisturizing Sunscreen: It offers SPF50+ PA++++ sun protection, which is fantastic for shielding the skin from UV rays. The added benefit of birch juice and hyaluronic acid keeps my skin moisturized, and niacinamide provides a brightening effect. Adenosine also offers anti-aging care. This sunscreen leaves no white cast, and it doesn’t feel sticky on the skin. It adheres seamlessly and even aids in the adherence of foundation or base makeup applied later. What’s remarkable is that it helps form a vita-moisturized protective film, keeping my skin moisturized for an extended period. After applying the Birch Juice Moisturizing Sunscreen, my skin feels well-protected and hydrated. It’s an excellent addition to my daily routine, especially because it combines sun protection with skincare benefits.
Round Lab
Birch Juice Moisturizing Sun Cream SPF50+ PA++++
4.6
(309)
628
6
Glasting Melting Balm
Day 6: Romand Glasting Melting Balm in 05 Nougat Sand Retails for $13 I’ve tried several shades before including this one, a brownish pink nude which looks natural on my lips. Excited to have a backup as this is my most used shade (I have 4 total)
Sharonspendstoomuch
This is a very hydrating lip balm that contains plant-based oils like Argan Oil, Rosehip Oil and Evening Primrose Oil. When applied to the lips, the balm is shiny like a lip gloss. I purchased 4 of the colors: 🩷 #2 Lovey Pink - light pink shade 🧡 #3 Sorbet Balm - coral shade 🤎 #5 Nougat Sand - brownish pink nude 💜 #6 Kaya Fig - rosy fig shade There are 9 colors in total, both warm and cool shades, so there is a good range of wearable colors. The balm glides on the lips smoothly and has a sweet fruity scent. They are all very moisturizing, and one swipe provides a nice natural look. The color is buildable and if you apply a couple of layers it leaves a glossy finish. I like the sheer yet pigmented color and they are all great for every day use. These are less expensive than Western lip oil products, but the color doesn’t last the longest, especially if you drink or eat, then you do need to reapply. The packaging is nice too, the lid clicks into place to snap it shut so the cap doesn’t fall off in your purse or pocket.
Romand
01 Coco Nude
4.4
(232)
179
7
Dive-in Low-Molecular Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Day 7: Torriden Dive-In Low Molecule Hyaluronic Acid Serum - $24. I’ve been wanting to try this! It contains a hyaluronic acid complex, Panthenol and allantoin to hydrate and soothe skin
skincadenza
I received this product for free from Picky and Torriden in exchange for my honest review. Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Price: Around $20 for 50 ml Packaging: Clear plastic bottle with a dropper Key Ingredients: Glycerin, Combination of 5 different weights of Hyaluronic Acid (Hydrating & Moisturizing) Panthenol (Vit B5), Allantoin, Madecassoside (Calming) Malachite Extract among other flower and root extracts (Antioxidants) What I liked: Viscous, gel like texture that has a nice slip on the skin Spreads and absorbs well and does not feel tacky Gives an intense boost of hydration to the skin Gentle and helps to calm irritated skin Can be paired with anything and everything Gorgeous pastel blue color that is due to the Malachite extract This is a really nice, lightweight serum that will suit all skin types. If you're looking for a boost of hydration, this is a really good option. The texture is enjoyable and it has no fragrance or artificial/added colors so it should suit even the most sensitive skin. I've been using it everyday in the AM and PM as my first serum after applying my toner(s). It absorbs really well and does not feel tacky or sticky. It's 50ml so it will last quite a long time as well. I generally don't advocate for stand alone HA serums as it is found in so many(practically all) products already but if you're looking for a hydrating, calming, skin-barrier repairing serum, this is a great option.
Torriden
Dive-in Low-Molecular Hyaluronic Acid Serum
4.7
(746)
548
8
Airy Sunstick Smoothing Bar SPF 50+
Day 8: Abib Airy Sunstick Smoothing Bar - retails for $28. I like this sunstick in summer months, there is no white cast and it is water resistant and sweat proof. However this is 4th sunscreen in this advent calendar, and I wish there was more variety
Sharonspendstoomuch
This sunscreen provides SPF50/PA++++ UVA/UVB protection to help prevent skin damage. It is water-resistant (up to 80 minutes) & is reef safe. ☀️Contains 4 Sunscreen filters: Homosalate, Octocylene, Octisalate, & Avobenzone Other Key Ingredients: 🔸 Camellia Japonica seed oil 🔸 Sunflower seed oil unsaponifiables 🔸 Allantoin 🔸 Ectoin Packaging: 0.81oz/23g khaki colored plastic crescent shaped tube with flip top & dial at bottom to twist the sunscreen upwards. My Experience: I’ve used the original Quick Sunscreen stick for reapplication for several months now. I like that one because of the dewy finish, & gel-like texture works well for dry skin. Both sun sticks have a curved shape, making it easier to apply on any area of the face or body. I was very interested in trying the Airy Sunstick, because in the heat of summer I want something water resistant & sweat proof. The Airy version is more powdery & leaves a semi-matte finish. There is absolutely no white cast - this goes on clear. Sunflower seed oil, Allantoin & Ectoin help keep skin hydrated, & the oil-control powder to control sebum. This Sunstick is super lightweight & doesn’t pill. You can apply it over makeup without worrying about any smudges. It actually helps blot out any oily patches during the day in my T-zone. I used it during outdoor activities & workouts, & it is definitely sweat proof. I like the Airy Sunstick for Summer & hot muggy weather since it helps reduce shine. I would recommend this sunscreen for any skin type, but it might be best for oily/combo skin vs the Quick Sunscreen, which I think is better for dry/combo skin. The size is perfect for on the go & I love how it is unscented.
Abib
Airy Sunstick Smoothing Bar SPF 50+
4.8
(227)
59
9
Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner
Day 9: Anua Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner (250ml) that retails for $25. I’ve been wanting to try this and I went to multiple Olive Young’s in Seoul looking for it but it was sold out everywhere. I’ve already started using this, even though I have 5 other open toners 🤣
Corinaliz
[ Anua Heartleaf Soothing Line ] Hi gorgeous, Just to be honest I have 2 ingredients that always keep in my skincare routine, Centella Asiatica and Heartleaf (Houttuynia Cordata)because both are powerful soothing ingredients and today I want to share my thoughts about the 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗳 77% 𝗦𝗼𝗼𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗧𝗼𝗻𝗲𝗿❤️😍 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗳 77% 𝗦𝗼𝗼𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗧𝗼𝗻𝗲𝗿 This is a moisturizing toner that helps to soothe the skin irritations and protects the skin. This toner has a very watery texture that absorbs fast without leaving any sticky or oily finish. Love that doesn't contains any particular scent so definitely if you don't like fragances this is the perfect option. This toner is super hydrating and gentle and also leaves my skin so soft and calm during the whole day definitely that's why this toner is an award winner. Love the ingredient list, contains 77% of heartleaf Extract, Centella Asiatica and Panthenol that helps to soothe the skin irritations. I was searching for some comedogenic ingredient and I couldn't find any of them so this toner is perfect for my oily skin community as well.
ANUA
Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner
4.3
(712)
815
10
Wrinkle Bounce Multi Balm
Day 10: Kahi Wrinkle Bounce Multi Balm that retails for $42. It is supposed to improve wrinkles and brighten skin. I like how convenient these are for carrying around, especially to reduce dryness over the winter
PoshLife
CLAIMS Infused with Salmon Complex such as Salmon Collagen and Salmon PDRN, which increases the synthesis of collagen in the skin to restore the elasticity of the skin effectively. Helps minimize the pores, increase the skin elasticity and radiance while reducing the appearance of wrinkles. Contains Jeju natural fermented oil such as Schisandra Berries to intensify the absorption. 🌸 I would say this is best for those with dry skin not oily skin type. It applies really balmy and it takes time to be absorbed. 🌸 I have occasional extremely dry irritated skin around my nose area and upper lip due to allergy flare ups and this has been a life saver. I spread it across my smile lines too which is my wrinkle concern. Have used it for a month but no noticeable effect on my smiles lines but I honestly did not expect much anyways. It cant be miracle worker. 🌸 Its good as far as moisturizing and soothing the dry areas of my face but no help in my obvious wrinkles 🌸 I love that its in stick form as it is very portable and convenient. 🌸 My friend uses it on her undereye and she noticed some decreased puffiness so she swears by it. But when I tried it as an eye balm, it irritated my eyes (got itchy and teary) so its off limits on my eyes now. Its a case to case basis for sure as I really have other allergies in the first place 🌸 I use it as lip balm now and to soothe and moisturize just the significantly dry areas of my face 🌸 I enjoy having it around if it were cheaper
Kahi
Wrinkle Bounce Multi Balm
4.5
(212)
61
11
Blur-Finish Shadow
Day 11: Dinto Blur-Finish Shadow Palette in Jane Austin. Retail price is $28. Nice travel friendly eyeshadow palette with 6 matte shades perfect for an everyday look.
Gray17
@dinto_cosmetic Elegant and classy eyeliner and Jane Austen Palette is so handy and compact to bring! The shades of the palette are perfect for everyday eye make up to add some simple yet beautiful looks!🤎🍂 It's soft to touch and the powder is somewhat melts when applied on the skin. It has this blurring effect which makes it useful to achieve that no makeup makeup look. Soft and smooth texture, when you swipe your finger into the palette you'll feel like it's a fine pressed powder. It does not crease or clump kn my eyelids even if it's after several hours after I applied.
Dinto
Blur-Finish Shadow - 701 Jane Austen
4.5
(6)
2
12
Birch Juice Moisturizing Cream
Day 12: Round Lab Birch Juice Moisturizing Cream (80ml) with retail price of $36. I’ve only ever used the sunscreen so excited to try this!
meloumash
Round Lab
Birch Juice Moisturizing Cream
4.5
(107)
362
0
3
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