Hi girls! I have posted a bunch of lists so far and was really heartened by how helpful others found it, so I thought I’d share it here too. However this time I’ll keep the reviews short and sweet, but feel free to ask if you want me to elaborate on anything!
* Check out the last part!
About My Skin
I’m with combination, acne-prone, and sensitive skin. My skin does not get along with fragrance, citrus oils, or floral essential oils, so I’ve become a bit of an ingredients nerd by necessity. I still have plenty to learn, but hopefully this list helps others with similarly reactive skin or anyone looking to simplify their routine based on honest experiences.
1. Saturday Skin Yuzu Vitamin C Sleep Mask – 4/10
Pros : It does have a slight brightening effect, especially with consistent use. The gel texture feels initially refreshing when applied.
Cons : Unfortunately, the scent is quite strong, very citrusy, which might be overwhelming for sensitive noses. It also contains several citrus oils that can be irritating for some skin types, especially with leave-on products. On top of that, the finish is pretty sticky and doesn’t fully sink in overnight, which isn’t the most pleasant experience if you like to sleep without your face sticking to your pillowcase.
Bottom Line : While it delivers a small glow boost, the stickiness and potential for irritation outweigh the benefits for me. If you’re sensitive to fragrance or essential oils, this might be one to skip.
2. Youth to the People Superfood Air-Whip Moisture Cream – 3/10
Pros : The texture is truly lovely as it’s light, fluffy, and absorbs quickly. Perfect if you prefer something weightless that doesn’t leave any residue.
Cons : Unfortunately, the formula includes added fragrance and limonene, which can be irritating for those with sensitive or reactive skin. I didn’t find it particularly hydrating or barrier-supporting, and it just didn’t seem to do much in the long term. It kind of felt like a filler step in my routine. I did notice during my last Sephora visit that the cream is no longer its signature pale green shade which seems like they may have reformulated it, but I haven’t tried the new version yet.
Bottom Line : For the price point, there are better moisturizers that offer more nourishment and less potential for irritation.
3. Caudalie Beauty Elixir Face Mist – 0/10
Pros : Honestly… none for me. It looks chic and has a cult following, but it just didn’t deliver.
Cons : The scent is very intense, not a soft botanical mist, but something more herbal and overpowering. It contains a mix of potentially irritating ingredients like alcohol, fragrance, rosemary oil, and various fragrant compounds, like citral, linalool, and citronellol, that can sensitize the skin over time. I didn’t notice any hydrating, soothing, or even refreshing effects.
Bottom Line : It feels like an outdated formula in today's skincare world, where barrier support and gentle ingredients are more of a priority. Personally, I think it’s more of a luxury spritz than a functional skincare step.
Hope this helps my fellow sensitive skin friends navigate the skincare jungle and I'm always happy to share more if it's helpful! Stay tuned for the next chapter:)