Nature Republic Aloe Vera Soothing Gel Mist Review

Description: The Soothing Gel Mist is a gel mist that moisturizes and protects the skin against the harmful environment. It is formulated with California CCOF-certified organic aloe, and can be used on the face, arms and legs. 

In the first post I shared about my top skin mist, the InnisfreeGreen Tea Mist. So this review is about my second fave mist, the Nature Republic Aloe Vera Soothing Gel Mist!!

I feel like this is the less popular and lesser known counterpart of the Nature Republic 92% Aloe Vera gel, but this works just as well. I quite obviously, have a bias for facial mists and I do product layering every night, so I prefer a lighter, mist application over the gel.

The product comes in a 150ml green, hard plastic packaging. When sprayed, the mist isn’t the fine mist you would expect out of an aerosol bottle, but this is understandable because it’s a GEL mist, so it has a slightly thicker consistency as opposed to the normal watery mists. The smell is similar to the Aloe gel by Nature Republic, a very subtle citrus scent and it absorbs quickly into the skin making your skin feel smooth and hydrated without any stickiness. This product doesn’t quite give the dewy glow many people love, but it still moisturises the skin well.

This product was my only skincare when I travelled to Taiwan. I forgot to pack my skincare items so I got this off the shelf somewhere near the night market. I would spray this after I was done with facial cleansing and DAMN. My skin really felt smooth and hydrated, I could really feel a difference in my skin’s texture. Obviously, the moisture it gave wasn’t enough to hydrate my skin the entire night, but considering I only used the mist and nothing else, it actually did a pretty decent job at hydration. Ever since that trip, this mist has become a staple in my cupboard.

The product only claims two things: Soothing and hydrating, and it does just that. This is one of the more hydrating mists out there in the market. If you have used the Aloe gel from Nature Rebublic before, this pretty much has the same effect on your skin, but obviously the mist is less a little less hydrating than the gel and absorbs much quicker. If you’re contemplating whether to get the gel or mist, I would advice trying the aloe gel first because it’s more versatile, value for money. (seriously, one tub contains a lot of product!!) But if you enjoy using mists more or want something that has a lighter consistency as compared to the gel, then go for the mist!

Also, the website suggested use of the mist for other parts of your body but if you are looking for a body moisturiser or something to put over small wounds, I would recommend the gel instead because application is easier.

My friend told me that she felt a film- like layer on her skin after she used the mist so I told her to lightly pat it in for better absorption. Also, use the mist as one of the first few steps of skincare to avoid it not fully absorbing into your skin. I don’t like to use it on top of makeup, because the mist droplets are not fine enough, but if I do, I spray it further away from my face then gently tap it in.

Alright, that’s all for the review! Overall, I feel that this is a simple product but it does its job very well because this mist provides really good hydration and allows for smoother, baby butt smooth skin.

SKINFOOD Black Sugar Perfect First Serum 2X Light Review

Claim (Found on skinfood’s website):

Achieve a smoother, clearer complexion with a combination of moisture rich black sugar and Cheongju, a traditional Korean wine.

A lighter formulation provides immediate hydration and quick absorption. This refreshing serum provides balance to both oily and dry skin. 

To use: Shake before use. 

1. After cleansing, dispense serum on cotton pad. Wipe with the textured side to gently exfoliate dead skin, excess keratin, and other impurities. 

2. Pat with the soft, smooth side to ensure total absorption

I have absolutely no qualms about the packaging. The product comes with a huge cotton pad box and a vintage looking brown glass bottle filled with 120ml of product. I bought mine when it was on promotion, so it came with two free travel size 20 ml glass bottles of the same product.

The Black Sugar Perfect First Serum 2X has 2 formulations, essential and light. The essential version has a thicker consistency while the light version is catered for oilier skin. The product is very light brown, almost transparent in colour, has a watery consistency, and a light subtle scent. To apply, you have to put it on the cotton pad, which has 2 different surfaces. One rougher side for gentle exfoliation and one softer side for absorption. (Directions above) For best effects, use this right after cleansing, using the exfoliation side first, then flip the cotton pad over to tap the remaining product into your skin.

I’m almost done with a bottle of this product but I still don’t regard it as a serum. It’s more like a toner. From the texture to application to its functions, it is exactly like a toner. So if you’re looking for something more like a toner, this could suite your preference.

This product does hydrate the skin and my complexion feels smoother after using it. Sometimes when I’m feeling super tired and lazy I just use it as my last step of skincare before doze off. My skin feels a bit sticky right after I used it, but the stickiness isn’t bothersome and goes away quickly. If you’re looking for a hydrating product, this product would work well as a hydrating toner. But it’s best if you layer it over with other creams or serums (whatever is in your routine).

The product claims to brighten the skin, to achieve clear complexion. However, I have not seen any visible improvements to my uneven complexion even though I have finished using half the bottle.

I enjoy using the cotton pads. The exfoliating side of the cotton pad really picks up all the gunk and dust off your face. Even after cleaning, there might still be impurities on your face, hence wiping with the cotton pad helps ensure a clear face.

As you can see, it really gets all the gunk out.

I’m rather conflicted because this I find that the product is easily replaceable by many other toners on the market. I feel like it’s similar to other toners I’ve used, other than the extra cotton pads that complement the product.  There are not many differences in my complexion even though I have been using it diligently after cleansing twice every day.

And about the cotton pads, I like using the exfoliating side very much, but I’m sure there are other embossed/ netted cotton pads in the market with similar textures too. Regular cotton pads can perform the same function and wipe off the gunk, although the texture might be different. (I’ve tried) Exfoliation sounds a little too fancy? Because if I were to do gentle exfoliation, cleansing oil or an exfoliating gel would work much better. I don’t rely on a cotton pad.

Toner has always been a part of my daily routine so I’m going to continue using this product until I finish it. However, I’ll not repurchase it as there are cheaper alternatives in the market. But if you’re very interested in this product, do read more about so you can see different perspectives.

I’m 18, so I can’t testify any claims about anti wrinkles and fine lines. To find out how this product works for mature skin, do check out other reviews before you decide to buy it or not!

Overall, this is an average product. It works as a hydrating toner and has nice cotton pads that come with it, but it hasn’t done much difference to my skin.

Innisfree Green Tea Mineral Mist Review

CLAIM: Enriched with Green tea and Green complex from pure Jeju island, Green tea pure revives dry, stressed skin by supplying abundant moisture.

Yay for first post! So I finally had the time to start on a beauty blog and Innisfree Green Tea Mineral Mist has earned the honour of being the first post! I’m an absolute facial mist junkie and a sucker for Korean skincare products. Over the years, I tried many facial mists from relatively affordable Korean brands like Nature republic and faceshop, etc. But I must say, having used this mist for over a year, it is definitely my TOP mists from Korean skincare brands!

The packaging is a sleek aerosol can. It comes in 2 sizes, 120ml and 50ml. The product is very light hence easy to carry around.The mist is has a refreshing scent and the consistency of water. It is quickly absorbed into the skin without feeling sticky at all. I noticed it to be suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin like mine. This mist may be a little too light for people with very dry skin or skin in dry winter months, but it’s an absolute fave in the summer! Also, it leaves a dewy glow, but the effect doesn’t last very long.

Many other mists in the market perform similar moisturising functions. So what exactly makes this mist different and on the top of my list?

COOLING EFFECT

This is what makes the mist different. If you like anything that provides a cooling sensation, you will love this mist. I live in Singapore and it is HOT here. It’s really a luxury to use it especially during sunny afternoons! I have found that the unique cooling ability of this mist provides additional functions.

1.      Depuff Face

I use it to depuff my face and eyes in the morning. Ever heard of refrigerated green tea bags to depuff swollen eyes? Well, this probably isn’t as effective, but it does the job and it’s super convenient.

2.      Calm irritated skin

I have had really bad acne and often experienced flaky, itchy patches on my cheeks. My acne prone areas can swell and cause a little pain sometimes too. But I found that the mist helps make trouble areas feel less pain and irritated because it’s moisturising and cooling.

Here’s my pro tip for an alternative usage for the mist! Best results for use after face cleansing.

1. Gently spread a thin layer of aloe vera gel (I use the nature republic one) over a cotton pad.
2. Stick the cotton pad over any trouble or dry areas and spray the mist on the cotton pad soaking it.
3. Remove the cotton pad when you feel that it has dried (around 10-15 mins). I recommend not reusing the cotton pad as the cotton fibres may loosen and irritate your skin.

The cotton pad should be able to stick to your face due to the aloe gel. Instantly, the trouble area feels refreshed and less irritated! Also the cooling sensation of the mist lasts for a longlong time. I used this method for about 4 months during my sudden terrible acne breakout and have benefited from it. Acne prone skin needs a lot of moisture, especially after cleansing, so this method can most definitely calm down dry and troubled areas on your face. 

LIGHT WEIGHT MOISTURISING

The mist comes in an aerosol spray, hence able to give very fine mist droplets that will just fall on your face. Although it is a moisturising mist, it cannot be used alone as your face will start to feel dry again after a short period of time. I like to use this product directly after cleansing and toner. Pat the product on your face until absorbed, and then layer over with moisturiser or serum (whatever is in your routine). If you’re someone who wants an all-in-one moisturising product then this may not float your boat. But if you do product layering, this is right up your alley!

You can also use it on top of makeup, just make sure to spray it about 15cm away from your face then lightly pat in into your skin. This would feel extremely nice if you’re in a dry workplace environment because this mist is quickly absorbed and feels refreshing. I use it when I’m out studying too!

Just remember, for every facial mist you use, always pat it into your skin with clean hands. Do not leave the product sitting on your skin surface as it will not absorb as well and may even slightly dry out your skin.

Ingredients: http://www.cosdna.com/eng/cosmetic_affa192419.html