This has been trending lately on all my socials, which initially piqued my interest. As someone who tries to be mindful of my purchases and what I put on my skin, I decided to hold off on buying it. Fortunately, Picky and Anua graciously gifted it to me via a giveaway, allowing me to test it. I posted my skincare routine in a list on this app before, so you can tell I have a pretty simple routine that works well for me. I do enjoy trying new skincare products every once in a while, as it gives me the opportunity to consider incorporating a new product into my routine. I tested the Anua Niacinamide 10% + TXA 4% for a few weeks before concluding my overall thoughts on it. Here are some of the reasons why I love this product: 🍓 As someone who occasionally experiences hyperpigmentation, I found this product met my needs. As a person of color, it's not easy to find a serum that effectively addresses dark spots. This product did fade some of the hyperpigmentation spots I get from breakouts, and I saw improvement in just a few days. 🍓 The main ingredient in this product is 10% niacinamide. Niacinamide is known to fight hyperpigmentation, and at a 10% concentration, it’s perfect for a seasoned skincare user like me. Niacinamide also helps with moisturizing, so I didn’t have to worry about my skin drying out while treating it. 🍓 This product also contains tranexamic acid, which is known for brightening the skin. When you are fighting hyperpigmentation, you are also brightening your skin. The niacinamide and tranexamic acid work well together to enhance this effect. 🍓 There are absolutely NO irritating ingredients in this product (at least for me). Usually, you’ll find potential triggers like perfuming agents in some Korean skincare, but this did not contain any of those. As someone with a sensitive nose, I appreciated that it did not contain any scent at all. 🍓 Can we talk about the packaging?! The packaging and bottle design of this product are not only aesthetically pleasing but also engineered to keep the product sterile and hygienic, which impressed me so much. 🍓 I'm considering adding this to my routine in place of the Axis-Y Dark Spot Correcting Serum. I feel that the Anua one works a bit faster and a tad bit better than the one I currently use, no joke. Overall, I rate this a 5/5. I don't usually fall for hyped-up products, which is why I judged this harshly, but this product was pretty impressive.

I recently received a PR package from another brand a couple of weeks ago (I posted it on this app) and was pretty impressed with those products. So when I received the Anua Heartleaf Cleansing Oil, I held it to the same high expectations I had for the other brand’s cleansing oils. Before I start my honest opinion, I’d like to thank Picky and Anua for sending me these. I was NOT expecting to be blown away by this product at all. If anything, this surpassed my previous favorite cleansing oil, and I was not prepared for it. I can see why this is hyped, and it rightfully deserves to be. Here’s a conclusive collection of the thoughts I have towards this cleansing oil: 🍃 This gets your makeup OFF. I mean, you don’t even need water to activate it—it literally removes all your makeup in one swipe! Just be sure to apply a generous amount for it to be effective. It effortlessly dissolves even the most stubborn waterproof mascara and long-lasting foundation. The texture is silky and glides smoothly over the skin, making the removal process quick and easy. 🍃 This has a slight herbal fragrance that is both comforting and refreshing. As someone who can get migraines from strong scents, I appreciated that this did not trigger any for me. The gentle scent added to the overall pleasant experience of using the product. 🍃 I used this on my most stubborn makeup product and a concealer, and it was strong enough to cleanse all of it entirely, without leaving a single residue. It effortlessly broke down the makeup, leaving my skin feeling clean and refreshed. 🍃 There are so many good ingredients in this bottle of cleansing magic such as: - Sunflower seed oil (emollient) - Olive oil (antioxidant + emollient) - Grape seed oil (antioxidant + emollient) - Tumeric Root Extract (soothing + skin brightening) - Tocopherol (antioxidant) - Melia Azadirachta Bark Extract (antimicrobial) Overall, I give this a 5/5 and will be definitely repurchasing this in the future. #pickyreview #gopicky #anua

You can imagine my excitement when I thought I’d initially get one (the clear version) but ended up gettig seven! This allows me to appreciate the brand even more than I would. I’d like to thank NYX Cosmetics and Influenster for sending me these in exchange for my honest thoughts on these. Let’s talk about the packaging. I LOVE the fat wand and the thick glass-like tube. It’s so chubby and cute. When you first open it, it’s kind of hard to pull it out of the bottle but gets easier once it’s actually used. I think this is a great indicator that these products were enclosed in a sterile environment. The shades I got are as the following: - 01 My Main** - this is a clear basic gloss, but applies beautifully on the lips and is not sticky. For the record, none of these were significantly sticky once applied on. - 04 That’s Chic - This applies as a purplish pink tone on the lips. This would look great with cool toned makeup. - 05 Newsfeed - This gives a pinkish-red tone, looks very cute and summery. - 07 Scrollin’ - This is a brown nude with an orange undertone. Out of all the shades, this was my least favorite because lip products with orange undertones/base don’t suit me. - 08 Status Update - This is SUCH a nice shade! It reminds me of Clinique’s black honey lipstick! It looks dark in the bottle but looks nice when applied on the lips. - 10 Splash of Cream** - This is like a honey brown nude color - looks great with any nude lipstick or alone on your lips. - 12: Sprinkle Sprinkle** - I’d describe this as pinkish mauve - a rose color. It’s an universally flattering shade. ** The asterisk ones are my favorite shades. My four favorite shades out of all the ones I received are: 01 My main, 10 Splash of Cream, and 12 Sprinkle Sprinkle. They align with colors I wear in my daily makeup routine. I honestly love all of them, but if you were to ask my favorite shades, it would be any of those three. I do feel that upon applying it on the lips, they can look rather very similar. The stark differences are shown more with the darker shades. I’d recommend getting a few instead of every color as some of the similar colors tend to look very similar once applied on. It’s a matter of the packaging and your favorite color. The applicator is a chubby doe-foot. I love this feature so much. It’s a perfect lip applicator for full lips. These also feel hydrating and don’t dry out your lips by over-hydrating them, like some products do. I like that no lip lines are shown with these products. I’m definitely going to try the remaining shades I haven’t tried. The price point of these are amazing as well.

If you’re looking for a no-nonsense, no-fuss moisturizer, Dear Klairs has developed the Rich Moist Soothing Cream just for that. I’ve tried many moisturizers, and while I have favorites, I’m always open to finding new ones that could potentially become a favorite. I tried this cream a few times, and I’d say it’s a good cream based on my experience, but it wasn’t special enough to become a new favorite. The Dear Klairs Rich Moist Soothing Cream is great for sensitive skin, though I think it’s best suited for drier skin types. As someone with combination skin that leans oily, this cream applies to a satin matte finish. However, if you apply too much, it can look greasy, especially on hot summer days. I feel this is perfect for the rest of the seasons, particularly winter. I anticipate using this full-time during the winter. Here are some of my current thoughts on this moisturizer and why I rate it a 3.75/5: 💙 Ease of Application: It's easy to apply, with no complications. It helped with redness and soothed the dry spots on my face. It also works well as a body cream, especially since my body skin tends to be dry. 💙 Texture and Feel: Although it's rich, it’s not heavy. My skin likes that it doesn't feel clogged, especially on my face. However, I did notice some questionable ingredients, which I'll mention next. 💙 Perfuming Ingredients: This product contains a LOT of perfuming ingredients. This can be concerning, especially for those with potential allergies. I patch-tested this on my sister, who has a lavender oil allergy, and her skin didn’t react well. Though these ingredients are low on the list (indicating small amounts), it’s crucial for those with sensitive skin to do a patch test first. Potential allergens include: - Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil - Eucalyptus Oil (also serves as an antimicrobial) - Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil - Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil 💙 Beneficial Ingredients: Despite the potential allergens, the product has some beneficial ingredients that can't be overlooked, including: - Glycerin - Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter) - Jojoba Seed Oil - Ceramide 3 - Arginine Overall, I rate this a 3.75/5. It’s a good basic moisturizer but may not suit everyone. It worked well for my skin type and didn’t cause any reactions, but a family member did react to it. So, I advise patch testing before using it. Otherwise, it’s a pretty good cream.

I usually see facial mists as a source of hydration during makeup application and not much more. I’m glad to have been given the Dear Klairs Fundamental Ampule Mist by Picky and Dear Klairs so I could see if it offers more than just hydrating the face. I used this mist between a few of my makeup sessions and noticed it aims to give a dewy look. While I love a nice dewy finish, I also checked the ingredients and benefits to see if it included any skincare goodies for simultaneous skin care. I absolutely loved this mist and found it to be more refreshing than I anticipated. Although the spray initially didn’t mist well, it evened out and sprayed nicely after the first few uses. Here are my conclusive thoughts on the Dear Klairs Fundamental Ampule Mist: ☕️ It’s great as a skin refresher. With New York’s current humid weather, if I don’t use a mist between applying foundation, my makeup tends to look patchy and oily. Personally, I found this mist kept my skin hydrated and my makeup intact. ☕️ It has zero harmful ingredients. No potential allergens. It’s alcohol-free, fragrance-free, and essential oil-free, making it suitable for everyone, including those with sensitive skin. ☕️ It contains a lot of moisturizing ingredients, such as: - Glycerin: a moisturizing agent - Betaine: a beet-derived amino acid derivative with skin protection properties - Trehalose: for long-lasting hydration - Panthenol: also known as pro-vitamin B5, helps moisturize the skin - Sodium hyaluronate: with a high water-holding capacity, best used on slightly damp skin ☕️ It’s unscented and won’t trigger any nasal sensitivities. ☕️ Additionally, it’s infused with green tea water, cucumber, okra, and mugwort. It’s interesting to see okra in skincare, as it’s not commonly used. I don’t mind it at all. ☕️ There’s no post-tightness feeling after application. It absorbed well into my skin (I have combination leaning oily skin). It’s a relief to my sensory issues, making it ideal for me. Overall, I give this a 5/5. It’s a fantastic mist that excels in hydration and keeping makeup intact.

If you’ve been following my recent reviews, you know I’ve been flooded with cleansing oils lately. I've been thrilled to test each one and give my honest feedback so you guys get the full tea before emptying your bank accounts! Funny enough, a few months ago, I was desperate to win just one cleansing oil giveaway, and now I’m overwhelmed with choices. It's time to narrow down my favorites. The Dear Klairs Gentle Black Deep Cleansing Oil went through A LOT of scrutiny on my end, so I can tell you if it’s worth it or not. I was curious about the significance of the word "black" in the name since the only black thing I initially saw was the cap. I’ll explain more in one of my summarized bullet points, and honestly, I was a bit impressed. Here’s why I think the Dear Klairs Gentle Black Deep Cleansing Oil is a decent choice for combination skin that leans oily (which is what I have). For context, it’s currently a humid summer in NYC, but now it’s kind of cool and wet (yuck). 🖤 Ingredients: It’s made with black sesame oil and black currant seed oil—each with its own benefits: - Black sesame oil (Sesamum Indicum): antioxidant protection - Black currant seed oil (Ribes Nigrum): rich in minerals and vitamins It also contains moisturizing jojoba seed oil. 🖤 Texture: The texture is similar to another favorite brand of mine—easy to apply, wash off, and cleanse with. This is a no-fuss oil cleanser. 🖤 Results: My face didn’t feel stripped or tight but looked visibly clean. 🖤 No Breakouts: I didn’t break out from this. I used it several times before concluding. Overall, I rate this a 4/5. It’s a solid cleansing oil that I appreciate, but I do have a personal favorite from another brand that’s more emollient and gives my skin a glow, which this didn’t quite achieve.

As someone with combination oily skin, a loose setting powder is a must. I was truly grateful to have been gifted this by @Influenster and @givenchy for sending me this in exchange for my honest feedback. With that said, here are my full thoughts after testing it a few times: - I’ve already tried the original formula and loved it. For a makeup product, this one is great! There are no harsh ingredients except for perfume, which doesn’t bother me. However, if you’re sensitive to fragrance, you might want to patch test it first. - One of the ingredients is tocopheryl acetate, which is commonly used in skincare formulations. It helps protect the skin from environmental toxins, acting as an antioxidant. - I chose the shade 04 Mousseline Acidulée, and while it’s labeled for medium skin tones, I think it can work for a wider range. I have a light-medium skin tone, and this shade worked beautifully, becoming completely translucent. It also color-corrects simultaneously, which makes it one of my favorite makeup products. - I didn’t experience any allergic reactions or new pimples. I read that the newer formulation is non-comedogenic, which might be why my skin stayed clear. For reference, I have combination skin that leans oily. - The mini version contains 4 grams, which is enough to last a while. It retails for $31, which may seem a bit pricey, but considering the quality, I think it’s worth it. For reference, the regular size contains 10 grams and retails for $60. Overall, I’d give this a 5/5!

🤎 UPDATE OCTOBER 24, 2024 My love for this cream is still going strong, as I’m about to enter my 9th month on this. It has solidified itself as an integral part of my skincare routine since March, and I don’t plan on changing it anytime soon. This literally fits the definition of “if it works for you, stick with it”. I don’t have acne marks as visible anymore, just mainly a few freckles (that I had since birth). This has prevented most of the new pimples from coming in. I did have a giant pimple around the month of August when I didn’t use this for a week (switched to another cream temporarily due to vacation) — so I noticed that I should just stick with this cream as long as it works for me. ___________________________________________________ My love for this cream is still going strong, as I’m about to enter my 9th month on this. It has solidified itself as an integral part of my skincare routine since March, and I don’t plan on changing it anytime soon. This literally fits the definition of “if it works for you, stick with it”. I don’t have acne marks as visible anymore, just mainly a few freckles (that I had since birth). This has prevented most of the new pimples from coming in. I did have a giant pimple around the month of August when I didn’t use this for a week (switched to another cream temporarily due to vacation) — so I noticed that I should just stick with this cream as long as it works for me. ❤️ UPDATE SEPTEMBER 25, 2024 I'm now entering my seventh month of using this cream, and my opinion hasn’t changed at all. Looking back at the condition of my skin just half a year ago, I feel so grateful for this product. I remember in 2023, my aunt gave me unsolicited advice about my skin, which really annoyed me because I had just moved and my skin was under a lot of stress. Fast forward a few months into 2024, and my skin has mostly cleared up. The unsolicited advice has also stopped! _______________________________________________ 🩵UPDATE AUGUST 2024 - Update to the 3 month update I gave in July 2024 I’ve already raved about this product and shared my three-month update, and now I’m onto month four. I can confidently testify that my love for this hasn’t changed one bit. This is the one product I can wholeheartedly recommend from this app. I’ve even recommended it to some of my family members and friends who struggle with stubborn minor acne, and they’ve told me they love it as much as I do. What makes this product so special is its consistency in delivering results over time. Even after four months, it continues to keep my skin clear and smooth, without any signs of irritation or diminishing effectiveness. I genuinely believe this is a game-changer for anyone dealing with similar skin concerns. If you’re curious to know more about my experience with it, I’ve detailed my thoughts and progress in my July update. It’s worth checking out if you’re considering adding this to your routine. —————————————————————— 🧡UPDATE JULY 2024 - After 3 months of testing!!! I’m glad to have won another giveaway for this! Having a couple of months of experience on this cream, I can give my finalized opinion of this product as I’ve already finished one jar and am starting another one. This is probably going to be the product of the year for me. I did not expect to love this so much as I currently do. The way this has fade most of my acne marks is unreal, and I cannot thank the brand enough for making such a great product. Besides winning the giveaways, I’ve bought a few to stay well stocked of this product. I’m doing a deep dive into details that I noticed while using this product for the last three months: 🌱 Besides it clearing up old acne spots and marks, this has been very helpful in keeping new pimples at bay. I try not to steer away from this particular moisturizer, because when I do, my skin doesn’t respond as positively. 🌱 Whenever I get (a few) new pimples, I literally put this on for the night. I’ve noticed that within a day or two, those new pimples completely disappear. I don’t know what it is, but in a way, this works like my pimple patches, except better. I can attribute it to the science of this formulation. 🌱 I’ve mentioned before that I have acne prone combination skin. While this kept my acne at bay, it simultaneously repaired my skin barrier and kept it well hydrated, even if I forgot to put this moisturizer the following day. 🌱 This has a cooling sensation so when applying this on puffy skin (which I have on some mornings), it immediately cools and soothes the skin. I feel that this moisturizer really lives up to its name. 🌱As someone with combination skin, I avoid products that leave my skin feeling greasy or such. This does not do any of that. I actually would argue that the texture of this cream is best suited for oilier skin types as it’s light without causing a grease-like effect, but heavy enough to hydrate the skin fully. It absorbs pretty well and doesn’t add “weight” feeling to the face. 🌱 I used to have a slightly more textured skin before using this. I would feel a little bumps here and there and I felt it could use improvement. Funnily enough, while using this for the last three months, I just noticed my skin is a lot smoother and the texture is gone. I would some days go without my skincare routine, but the one thing I did try not to miss was this particular cream. I attribute a lot of my skin improvements to this cream. Overall, this will always stay a solid 5/5 for me. I hope the formulation never changes. —————————————————————— 💜ORIGINAL REVIEW - MARCH 2024 Disclaimer: I received this product for free from Picky and Dr. G in exchange for my honest review. With that being said, let’s dive into what I thought of this product! 🌱 As someone with acne prone skin, this product particularly interested me. I saw so many tiktok videos talking about this product so I was really excited to be given the opportunity to try this. 🌱 This product claims to target skincare issues such as redness, blemishes, irritation as well as hydrate and brighten the skin. 🌱 Key ingredients support the claims. Niacinamide is an ingredient I sought after in my skincare so I was pleased to see this ingredient near the top of the list. It also contains Centella asiatica extract, which is proven to help with soothing and reducing redness of the skin. It also helps with evening out the skintone. 🌱 I’m currently using this in my rotation because through the few days I’ve used this, I’ve seen some improvements in my skin already. 🌱 The smell of this is light and very refreshing. It is an added bonus that this has a very clean smell with no fragrance. This is perfectly suitable for those with sensitive skin. 🌱 I rate this a 10/10 so far. No stinging feel, reduces appearance of dark spots, and actually reduces the redness in my face. I feel that this actually works in targeting the skin issues I had. I still have to continue this for some time to give whether the final verdict is 10/10 or not. #pickyreview #gopicky #dr.g #drg #skincare

The first thing that caught my attention about this product was the packaging—it looked aesthetically beautiful. I had never heard of the brand before, but after seeing this, I immediately went to their profile to see what else they offered. This brand gives me a nostalgic vibe, reminding me specifically of Winnie the Pooh. I've always loved Pooh, so it's no surprise that I was drawn to the aesthetics this brand carries. I was delighted when Picky chose me to test this product. I finally got the chance to try it, only to find out that I was one of the unlucky ones to receive a batch that expires on 08/28/2024. Normally, I would toss it without testing, and Picky did mention I wasn’t obligated to review it. However, I still wanted to share my thoughts on what might have been a great product if not for the expiration date. From what I’ve experienced in the few days I tried this (before it expires), I came to appreciate the formula and simplicity of this product. Here’s what I observed that made me like it—and would continue using if it weren’t about to expire: 🍇 This product is made with 82.4% grapefruit ferment extract—a high concentration that ensures you get the benefits. This also shows me that the company doesn’t compromise on ingredients. 🍇 It contains adenosine, which is great for its anti-wrinkle properties, making it perfect for those looking to prevent signs of aging. 🍇 It also includes sodium hyaluronate, an excellent ingredient for hydration. 🍇 Upon application, I noticed there was absolutely no scent or fragrance. Usually, when brands advertise “fragrance-free,” there’s still a slight detectable scent, but this one is truly fragrance-free. 🍇 The formula contains no essential oils or other oils, making it safe for sensitive skin types. However, I’d still recommend patch testing to ensure you’re not allergic to any other ingredients. A pro is that there are only 16 ingredients in this product, so it’s not a complicated or complex formula. 🍇 A bonus is that the bottle is made from recycled plastic, which is great for the planet. Overall, I’d give this a 4/5—it’s a great product, but due to the expiration date, I’d have to deduct it to a 3/5 because I can’t continue using it.

November 21, 2024 Update I first tried this product back in August 2024, so I've had ample time to test it. Whether it's the seasonal weather changes or just having more experience with it, my opinion on this has shifted. This is purely based on my personal experience—if it works wonders for you, don’t let my perspective change how you feel about it. It’s still a good lip balm, but after more testing, I wouldn’t rank it in my top three lip balms or treatments. I’m adjusting my rating from 5/5 to 3/5, and here’s why: 🩸 Chapped lips and product reliance: When the weather changes, I typically rely on a favorite brand I’ve used for three years. With that product, I’ve never experienced chapped lips or needed to reapply in the same day. In fact, one application often lasts for a week because it truly heals my lips. I paused using that to try this balm exclusively, and my lips became severely chapped within days. By day three, my lips were so dry they started bleeding. It seems like there’s something in the formula that creates a dependency on the balm—without it, my lips became excessively dry. 🩸 Severe dehydration despite adjustments: I initially thought I might be overusing the balm, so I spaced out applications to every three days and used smaller amounts. Unfortunately, the same results occurred. My lips were the driest they’d ever been, to the point where my sister noticed and asked, “What happened to your lips? Moisturize them.” When I told her I’d switched balms, she said, “Go back to your old one because your lips are looking crusty.” Word for word. 🩸 Lack of lasting benefits: I regret not taking pictures to document how bad my lips got, but the experience was unpleasant. The balm seemed fine on day one, but my lips progressively worsened after that. I finally discontinued it and went back to my OG (Summer Fridays, by the way). My lips are healing now—no more bleeding, cracks, or crustiness, and no reliance on constant reapplication. Overall, I’d say this balm is okay for occasional use—maybe once a week—but it seems to make lips reliant on the product. I dislike products that create dependency because if I decide to stop using them, I don’t want to deal with adverse effects. For context, this feedback is specific to the original flavor. Interestingly, I also tried the mojito flavor, which wasn’t nearly as problematic. If you’re considering this balm, proceed with caution, especially with the original flavor. —————————————————————— October 2, 2024 Update It’s been about a little over a month of me using this and honestly, it’s great. It is designed to be used as a lip care product, and as long as you use it for that, it will serve you well. I can never turn down a good lip product, and the Lipcerin by CNP Laboratory is no exception. These are a must-have for the cold season and far from your average lip balms. I’ve already mentioned loving this product before, and finding out it comes in assorted flavors only adds to my excitement. Here’s why I like these: 💋 These are thicker than your typical lip balms—very hydrating but not overly so to the point where your lips feel overwhelmed. I’ve experienced that issue before, but these strike a great balance, comparable to another brand that’s my top favorite. 💋 These easily rank in my top 3. I’ll definitely be using them a lot during the colder months. 💋 While the flavors vary, the function remains quite similar across the different versions. I’ve tried both the Original and Mojito. The main difference lies in the scent. It’s noted that the Mojito version is meant to calm and soothe dry lips, but honestly, the Original does that too. I think it’s more about picking the scent that suits your preference. 💋 Scents: * Original: Reminiscent of manuka honey. It smells sweet and a bit syrupy, but in a good way. Don’t mistake it for being sticky—it feels emollient and balmy. * Mojito: This has a refreshing citrus scent, and I LOVE it. I’ve always leaned toward citrus scents, so this is perfect for me. 💋 I will say, these aren’t your everyday lip balms. They’re quite thick, making them ideal as a nighttime lip mask or for focused lip care. They don’t pair well with makeup, so if you're looking to hydrate your lips before applying makeup, this isn’t the product for that. Overall, this occlusive moisture lip balm is excellent for dedicated lip care. As long as you’re using it as intended, you’ll love what it has to offer. I’d rate these a solid 5/5. —————————————————————— ORIGINAL REVIEW - 08/22/2024 CNP Propolis Lipcerin in ORIGINAL I don’t see propolis used as a skincare ingredient often—it’s a miracle component that doesn’t get the appreciation it deserves. While honey is the only food on earth that doesn’t expire and has unmatched healing properties, propolis is a natural substance made from tree sap that bees use to protect and seal their hives. It’s renowned for its antibacterial and healing benefits. Here are some reasons why I’ll reach for this often: 🍯 Not sticky: Despite the manuka honey component, it feels smooth rather than tacky. It’s subtly addictive, so you might accidentally over-apply it. I recommend against doing so. 🍯 Pleasant scent: It has a slight manuka honey fragrance that I enjoy, not the sickly sweet type. It’s very similar to the manuka honey I use for wound healing in a hospital setting—nature sometimes offers the best treatments. 🍯 Long-lasting: This doesn’t need frequent application. It helps protect my lips, which tend to get drier with weather changes. 🍯 Beneficial ingredients: - Propolis extract (healing) - Beta-glucan (humectant) - Madecassoside (antioxidant, soothing) - Glycerin (moisturizer, skin-identical ingredient) - Squalane (emollient) - Shea butter (emollient) Overall, I give this a 5/5. It performs just as well as my favorite lip butter (Summer Fridays) and is priced better.

This was certainly a new brand for me to test as I’ve never heard of this, and fortunately, this did not disappoint. I’d like to thank Picky and CNP Laboratory for gifting me this in exhange for my thoughts on these. Upon initial impressions, I took a liking to the packaging aesthetic as it is minimal and no fuss. From what I gathered, this is an ampoule that targets to revitalize the skin. I tried this a couple of times, and I quite liked the texture and how it made my skin feel. I still have to test it for a bit longer to form a solid opinion on this. So far it has met my expectations, so I give this a 4/5. This does not mean it lacks in anything, rather that it met my expectations of a good skincare product, and my standards are pretty high. Here’s a summary of what I experienced with this product while using it: 🌻 The packaging is very professional yet minimal. There is no fuss to the design of the product, which exudes the fact a meticulous and thoughtful process was in play when developing this product. I do think that a step could be taken further given that this contains antioxidant ingredient. I thought rather than using clear bottle design, it would be better to use a tinted bottle to ensure the longevity and stability of the antioxidants used in this. 🌻 Upon opening this, I was met with a gentle (and not very noticeable) scent of propolis - I’d describe it as a warm scent in between floral and plants with a hint of honey. It’s a very herbal based scent. I love this comforting smell, and the scent alone made me feel a bit more refreshed. 🌻 Upon applying, the consistency of this is very similar to that of glycerin (a little thicker than water), so it absorbs quite quickly. It did not trigger any allergies or sensitivies in me, so I’d say this is pretty safe for sensitive skin types. 🌻 This does not contain silicones or any ingredients that would ball up when applying with makeup. This is something I’ve been looking more into because I wear more make-up to the summer. 🌻 Note that this has 10% propolis concentration, so if you’re unsure of being allergic to any bee by-products, definitely do a patch test. Overall, this was a good serum, nothing too mind blowing, hence it’s why I give it a 4/5.

As someone who majored in a health-related field, I scrutinize most moisturizers before purchasing them, as I have acne-prone, oily combination skin. Over the last decade, I’ve tried and tested many moisturizers and have settled on a few favorites that I continue to repurchase. Testing a new moisturizer is nothing new to me, which is why I was thankful to receive the Skinfix Barrier+ Triple Lipid-Peptide Cream to try. I’m in my mid to late twenties, so it’s crucial for me to take care of my skin. The Skinfix Barrier+ Triple Lipid-Peptide Cream is a peptide cream that is is formulated with four main actives, patented B-L3 complex (for restoring lipids), nutripeptides (for supporting skin barrier), seaweed sodium hyaluronate (for deep hydration), and lily root extract blend (to lock in hydration) . Here are some reasons why I liked this cream: 💙 This is an intensely moisturizing cream. From the first pump, I could see how thick and rich it was. Although I prefer this type of cream in the fall and winter, as it can be too heavy for the summer. I have oily skin, and this feels a bit much on my pores during the warmer months. However, it does an excellent job of not making me look greasy, despite its richness. It dries down to a semi-matte finish. Also note that one pump is MORE than enough. 💙 This cream is free of icky ingredients, making it suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. Some of the standout skincare goodies include: - Glycerin (for hydration) - Shea Butter (an emollient that smooths the skin) - Jojoba Oil (an emollient) - Squalene (an antioxidant that helps protect the skin) - Tocopherol (a great antioxidant to have in skincare) - Gluconolactone (an exfoliant that helps lift off dead skin cells) - Ceramides (mimics the skin’s natural moisturizing factor) 💙 I love the type of applicator on this. It’s hygienic and keeps the formula stable and clean as it’s not exposed to outside air. If you’re someone with a bit of OCD like me, this moisturizer is great; the product design is engineered to help your products stay clean and last longer. The only con for me was the scent. While a fragrance-free option is great for many, I didn’t personally like the natural scent of this one. I can’t quite pinpoint what it smells like, but it’s a bit dank, almost as if something is slightly fermented. It’s not a bad smell, but it’s not one I prefer in my skincare products. I thought the smell would go away, but I’m still able to detect the scent after a few hours. For this, I had to deduct one star. Overall, I give this a 4/5. It’s a nice cream to use during the colder seasons and is suitable for those looking to repair their skin barrier, especially if you have mature skin.

I honestly had no idea what this was until I looked it up—and I think it’s the perfect complementary product to use with the Cica Reedle Shot, regardless of the strength. The description notes that this is made with “Korean ginseng instead of fish derivatives,” which made me wonder, “Since when do essences contain fish derivatives?” Apparently, salmon PDRN (polydeoxyribonucleotides) has been the latest wave in Korean skincare, helping with skin rejuvenation and repairing moisture barriers. It also aids in healing wounds, cuts, and acne blemishes. Understandably, some of us may have allergies to salmon, which is why this is a perfect choice for those looking for a vegan option. The PDRN 100 is formulated with ginseng instead of salmon sperm. Upon using this, I was pleasantly surprised by the benefits it had for my skin. Here are some of the reasons I like it: ✨ It helps with the tingling sensation that occurs when applying Reedle Shot (any strength). My face doesn’t look as red, and it makes my pores less noticeable. ✨ The color is milky white and fades to clear when applied. The texture is very watery, and you can feel your skin literally absorbing the product. ✨ There is no scent, making it suitable for all skin types. ✨ Some of the best key ingredients include panthenol (hydration + protection of the skin barrier), squalane (hydration), allantoin (prevents moisture loss), and polyglucuronic acid (gives a nice glow effect). Overall, I’d rate this a 5/5. This is a unique essence I’ve tried, and I love how well it pairs with the Reedle Shot.

🩸 Update: November 28, 2024 - Five-Month Assessment of This Essence! I first tried this in July 2024 and shared an update in August, so I’m back with another check-in! I’ll be honest—I haven’t been using this religiously over the past few months, mainly because my skincare routine often clashes with it (like when I use my LED red light tool). I do use that sparingly, so when I incorporate this essence, I avoid using anything else with it during that week, except for a toner and moisturizer. Previously, I used the 100 version more than the 300 because the 300 felt a bit too sharp on my skin. However, I feel like my skin has “graduated” from the 100, and I’ve been reaching for the 300 more lately. Surprisingly, it doesn’t feel as sharp anymore. The 100 transformed my skin a few months ago, and now I rely on the 300 to maintain those results. My pore size remains visibly reduced, my skin texture feels incredibly smooth, and my makeup applies beautifully as a result—which is a huge win for me! I’m keeping my rating at 4.5/5. It’s great for occasional use. While it’s recommended to use this every 3 days (up to twice a week), I personally stick to once a week. This allows me to rotate other skincare products without irritating my skin, and so far, my skin has been doing just fine! ——————————————————————— UPDATE AUG 25, 2024 - Two Month Assessment of this Essence! In my opinion, it hasn't been that long (I usually form final thoughts after 3 months), but my two months of experience have solidified a general opinion on this, leaning positive. Frankly, I don't use this often due to the instructions. I predominantly use the 100 because my skin tolerates it well at the moment, and only a few weeks ago was I able to graduate to using the 300. Keep in mind that I only use the 300 once a week as a replacement for the 100. I've seen promising results with the 100. I suffer from stubborn hyperpigmentation, and I've noticed significant improvement in my skin tone after using this. Initially, my skin felt tender to the touch, as I mentioned in my original review, but it has since grown accustomed, allowing me to start using the 300 sparingly. I recommend using the 300 ONLY after you've used the 50 and 100 enough that your skin has adjusted. I've been using it for a few weeks on a once-weekly basis (the recommended directions suggest applying it up to twice per week) as a replacement for the 100 on certain days. You may experience slight redness initially, but if it persists, I suggest switching to a lower strength to see if your skin tolerates it better. Personally, I didn't experience redness beyond the first day as long as I controlled the strength and amount applied. Be sure to slather on enough moisturizer to help your skin. Overall, I still rate this a 4.5/5. It's great when used correctly. —————————————————————— Original Review June 29, 2024 I have seen this all over my socials and was wondering what the hype was - and NOW I get it. I’m so excited and pleased to have incorporated a new skincare product that I will be using in my skincare routine. This isn’t like any other skincare item in my collection, and I will be looking more from this brand in the future. This is the VT Cosmetics Reedle Shot 300, an essence that is meant to mimic microneedling treatment. Rest assured, there is no needles involved. Out of the three concentrations I’ve tested, this is is a bit stronger than the 100 concentration, and definitely not meant for every day use. I used this on two days in replacement of the 100 concentration (in the past two weeks), as this is meant to be used every 3 days instead of every day. VT cosmetics has a schedule of applying these products according to concentration, which I highly recommend you to follow. I love this product but it is advised to utilize this with caution. Let’s get into more details on why I appreciate the Reedle Shot 300: 🌱 From the set of three I got, I would say this is probably the one I saw immediate results with. As someone with sensitive skin, the 300 felt pretty strong. It’s meant to be applied every 3 days, and I wouldn’t recommend shortening that duration. I applied it twice in a two week period due to being cautious as well as being aware of my pain threshold, which I will explain in the next bullet point. 🌱 When applying this, I felt a stronger stinging and tingling sensation compared to the 100. As someone with sensitive skin, I felt that I might experience a negative reaction with the 300, despite doing well with the 100. However, after patch testing for an hour, my skin looked fine and the pain did not last more than a few minutes. I also did not experience any irritation. I resumed in doing my whole face, (and yes it hurt the first five minutes but the pain went away) and I will say, the following two days, my skin looked amazing. As long as you’re not touching your face, you won’t feel any pain. Let the cica reedles do its work. 🌱 This contains cica reedles, which look like microscopic needles. This is what causes the tingling sensation. This particular ingredient helps shed off dead skin over time, which increases cell turnover rate and results in healthier, brighter skin tone. 🌱 The Reedle Shot 300 contains multiple skincare goodies and no bad ingredients at all. Trust me, I checked it thoroughly. Similar to the 100, the only main difference that the 300 had a higher concentration of Cica Reedle compared to the 100. It also makes sense to why this product is so popular. Some of the honorable ingredients to mention include: - Centella Aisatica Extract (an antioxidant that doubles as anti-inflammatory agent for eczema) - Madecassoside (an antioxidant that comes from Centella Asiatica that helps with skin soothing as well - Niacinamide for skin brightening - Glycerin, sodium hyaluronate for hydration of the skin - Glycine for improving wrinkles - Serine as a water binding ingredient (enhances the effect of ngredients that promote hydration - Arginine for speeding up wound healing and is a primary building block of skin collagen - Isoleucine as a skin barrier repair ingredient - Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil, which comes from Macadamia nut and is loaded with nourishing fatty acids 🌱 Note, when wearing this, it’s HIGHLY recommended to wear sunscreen after applying this. Your skin will be in a sensitive state and you want to make sure to take care of it. 🌱 Because it mimics a microneedling experience, do not use any external skincare device or LED mask. I would focus on keeping your skin hydrated (with moisturizer) while this product works to repair your skin. Overall, I rate this a solid 5/5. I like this a lot, but prefer the 100 for my sensitive skin. As someone who engages in daily skincare routine, I have to make a careful note not to use the 300 daily, which is why I use it very sparingly, as recommended by the company.