Hey skincare fam! 👋 I’ll be honest, summer got the best of me this year. Between the heat, humidity, and just being lazy with my skincare routine, my skin started looking tired and feeling rough. I wasn’t breaking out badly, but my cheeks felt dry in patches, and my overall texture looked dull. My skin also lost a bit of that natural bounce — you know, when your face just doesn’t feel as plump or hydrated as it should. So I decided it was time to get back on track with something soothing, hydrating, and easy to use. After reading some recommendations online, I decided to try the Mediheal Collagen Ampoule Pad. I’ve used Mediheal’s sheet masks before and liked them, so I was curious about their take on a toner/ampoule pad. The packaging is a soft pink square tub that feels sturdy but still pretty on the vanity. And based on the product info, it’s made for hydration, improving skin’s inner elasticity, and giving a very slight plumping effect—exactly what my skin was craving. About My Skin For context, I have combo to dry skin that still manages to get dehydrated in spots. My T-zone can get shiny in summer, but the rest of my face, especially my cheeks, tends to feel tight and lose that healthy bounce if I don’t keep up with consistent moisturizing. First Impressions When I opened the tub, the first thing I noticed was the pads themselves. They’re bigger than most toner pads I’ve used, easily covering one side of my face at a time. The material is 100% cotton with tiny perforated holes throughout, which helps hold the essence and makes them feel softer on the skin. Each pad is soaked in this milky, ampoule-like essence—not watery like a toner, but not super heavy either. The scent is very faint and non-offensive, slightly fresh but nothing overly fragranced. I appreciate that because heavy scents in skincare, especially in the summer, can feel overwhelming. How I Use It Since I’m testing this in hot, humid weather, I wanted to see if it could hydrate without making my skin greasy. I’ve mostly been using it at night after cleansing and before moisturizer. I take one pad and use it in two ways. Swipe gently across my cheeks, forehead, and chin to apply the essence evenly. Stick the pad on my cheeks like a mini mask for 3–5 minutes to let the essence sink in. Because the pads are so big, one pad per cheek is enough to give that “instant cooling” feeling, which feels amazing after being out in the summer heat. Texture & Feel The essence is lightweight but definitely on the ampoule side rather than a watery toner. When you first apply it, there’s a slight layer on the skin that feels cushiony. It’s not sticky-sticky, but you can feel that extra slip from the collagen and hydrating agents. After about 2–3 minutes, it settles into a soft, moisturized finish with just a bit of dewiness. This isn’t a product that gives a dramatic plumping effect overnight, but I did notice a subtle improvement in how smooth and bouncy my cheeks felt after a few days. The hydration is more of a “slow and steady” type rather than an instant glass-skin transformation. Results After 2 Weeks After about two weeks of using it almost every night, here’s what I’ve noticed. Hydration: My cheeks don’t feel tight anymore, even on days when I skip heavier creams. Texture: Slightly smoother and softer overall, especially in the areas that looked dull before. Plumping: A very subtle improvement — my skin doesn’t sag, but it just looks a bit more “awake” and healthy. Makeup Prep: On days I use it in the morning, my foundation applies more evenly and doesn’t cling to dry patches. One thing I really like is that it’s gentle enough to use daily. I haven’t experienced any breakouts or clogged pores from it, which is always my biggest concern with richer, collagen-heavy products. Pros Large, soft pads that cover a lot of surface area. Essence is hydrating without feeling heavy. Subtle plumping effect with consistent use. Gentle enough for daily use, even in summer. Minimal fragrance. Cons Not a dramatic, overnight effect (you have to stick with it). Slight residue on skin, which some people might dislike. Price is a bit higher than basic toner pads, but you’re paying for the ampoule-level formula. Final Thoughts If your summer skin has been feeling a little neglected — maybe from too much sun, heat, or just skipping steps in your routine — the Mediheal Collagen Ampoule Pad is a great low-effort way to bring back some hydration and bounce. It’s not a miracle product, but it’s definitely one of those “quietly reliable” products you can keep reaching for. I think it’s best for People with combination or dry skin that feels dehydrated. Anyone who wants a gentle, hydrating product they can use daily. Skincare minimalists who want both a toner and a light ampoule step in one. I’m planning to keep using it for the rest of the summer, and probably into the fall too. It’s not one of those instant-transformation products, but with consistent use, it quietly boosts your skin’s condition in a way you actually notice over time. If you’re looking for something gentle yet effective to address dehydration and loss of elasticity during the summer, this is a great pick.

I have combo skin (oily T-zone, dry-ish cheeks), and today I thought I’d share a quick look at the products currently living on top of my desk. Yes—my desk. Not the prettiest shelfie setup, but this is real life and these are the ones I actually reach for every single day. I love experimenting with skincare, but I also get overwhelmed easily when my routine has too many steps. So if a product makes it into my daily lineup, it’s usually doing something right (or is too strong to ignore 👀). Some of these are gentle staples, a couple are treatments, and one is prescription-only. I’ve written super short blurbs—just a few thoughts each—so this doesn’t turn into a novel. Think of it as speed dating for skincare. Let’s get into it. (From left to right) 1. Makeprem UV Defense Me. No Sebum Sun Cream This is one of the only mineral sunscreens that doesn’t make me look like a ghost. It leaves a soft matte finish without pilling under makeup. Absolute go-to for humid days. 2. Aklief Cream (Prescription only) 3. Innisfree Vitamin C Green Tea Enzyme Brightening Cream This smells so fresh and citrusy, and I love the bouncy cream texture. Gives my skin a glow without being too strong. Perfect for AM use under SPF. 4. La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo+ M I use this as a spot treatment and sometimes all over my T-zone. It helps shrink bumps overnight without drying me out. I’ve repurchased this more than any other acne product. 5. Innisfree Vitamin C Green Tea Enzyme Serum Layers really nicely in the morning and gives me a healthy, not-greasy glow. I like this more than most vitamin C serums because it doesn’t sting. Not a dramatic effect, but very wearable. 6. Innisfree Retinol Green Tea PDRN Skinbooster Ampoule Surprisingly gentle for a retinol product. I use this 2–3x a week at night and haven’t had major irritation. I feel like it helps with post-acne marks more than anything else. 7. DERMA FACTORY Niacinamide 20% Serum Super affordable and super potent. I only use this a few times a week because of the high concentration, but it helps with redness and breakouts. Just make sure to moisturize well afterward. 8. Innisfree Retinol Green Tea PDRN Skinbooster Toner I use this on nights when I don’t want to commit to a full retinoid routine. It preps my skin well and doesn’t leave any stickiness. A good intro product for retinol newbies! Final Thoughts I know that looks like a lot—but honestly, these are spaced out across my routine and used as needed (I’m not slathering retinol and acids all at once, promise 😅). I’m a firm believer in listening to your skin and adjusting based on how it feels. Some days it’s just SPF + moisturizer; other days I go full-layered K-beauty mode. These 8 products have earned a spot on my desk because they actually work for my oily-combo, breakout-prone skin. 💚 Let me know if you’ve tried any of these or want a deep-dive on one!

Hey friends! 👋 I just got back from a trip to Korea, and as any skincare lover would, I basically lost my mind inside Olive Young. That store is literally dangerous for your wallet—but also a goldmine for trying out products we can't always get easily in the States. While I was there, I decided to focus on vitamin C-based products, mostly because my skin was looking super dull after the long flight and jet lag (and maybe a bit of too much soju?). I wanted something that could give me an instant boost and also something I could incorporate into my routine long term. Today I’m reviewing two Korean vitamin products I picked up at Olive Young that really stood out: one mask and one toner pad. I’ve been using them consistently since I got back, and I’ve got a lot of thoughts. This post is for those of you who are curious about Korean vitamin skincare—especially if you’re dealing with dullness or post-acne marks. Also, the attached image is a pic I took at Olive Young—it’s the actual display with these products, just to give you a visual vibe! 🧡 1. MediAnswer Vita Collagen Nanoshot Mask Sheet Type: Gel mask (2-piece sheet), brightening + firming Texture: Thick bio-cellulose-style hydrogel, not drippy but extremely saturated How It Feels: Cooling and clingy in the best way Smell: Slightly citrusy, clean but not overpowering Let’s talk about this mask. I wasn’t expecting much because I hadn’t heard of MediAnswer before, but the packaging looked super clinical and professional. When I opened it, I realized it was one of those two-piece hydrogel masks—which I love because they stick to the skin way better than regular cotton sheet masks. This one clings like second skin, and even though I walked around my hotel room like a zombie for 30 minutes, it did not budge. The serum inside feels very rich but not greasy. It’s more of a thick essence-gel hybrid, and even after 30 minutes, the mask was still juicy. I ended up rubbing the leftover into my neck and chest. And here's the kicker: you can use it as a sleeping pack too. I didn’t wash it off, just sealed it in with a light moisturizer, and woke up with that "I slept 9 hours" glow (I actually only got 5 lol). It claims to be collagen + vitamin C infused, and while I can’t speak for long-term collagen benefits, I did notice that my skin looked bouncier and brighter the next morning. Like, noticeably. 🌟 Rating: 4.5/5 I only deducted a tiny bit because it’s not exactly budget-friendly if you use it regularly. But as a treat-yourself moment or pre-event glow-up? Absolutely worth it. 🍋 2. Mediheal Vitamide Brightening Pad Type: Daily toner pad (brightening, mild exfoliation) Texture: 100% cotton pads soaked in light, vitamin-y essence How It Feels: Slightly sticky at first, but sinks in Smell: Light citrus Okay, so this one was everywhere in Olive Young. Bright yellow packaging, big “VITA” lettering—it just screams “put me in your basket!” 😂 I’m a sucker for pads because I’m lazy, and these were super gentle. The pads are made from pure cotton, so they don’t feel scratchy or irritating at all (even around my nose, which is usually sensitive AF). Now, I do want to mention that they leave a slight tackiness after use. It’s not sticky-sticky, but it’s definitely noticeable. I think it’s because of the vitamin C derivative plus whatever hydration agents they put in. I personally liked it because it gave my skin a kind of healthy, dewy finish, but if you hate any residue—consider yourself warned. What impressed me the most was how bright and calm my skin looked the next morning. I usually get a little red around my chin and mouth, but these helped tone that down. It’s not a miracle product, but as part of a daily routine? It’s low-effort and effective. 🌟 Rating: 4/5 I wish it absorbed a bit faster and wasn’t as tacky, but it’s a solid brightening step for people who want results without irritation. Final Thoughts If you’re traveling to Korea soon—or just browsing Olive Young Global online—these two are worth checking out. I especially recommend the MediAnswer mask for dry, dull, or post-acne skin, and the Mediheal pads for anyone who wants to sneak vitamin C into their routine without risking irritation. Let me know if you’ve tried these too or if there’s another vitamin product you swear by. I’m always open to adding another step to my already-too-long routine 😂💛

Hey friends! This is a little corner of my vanity drawer—and no, I’m not reviewing everything in the photo 😂 Just wanted to spotlight 4 products from the pile that I’ve actually used up or reached for a lot. I have combo-to-oily skin (especially in the T-zone), and always on the lookout for hydrating, calming, and non-greasy formulas that play well with my minimalist routine. I don’t always write reviews, but these stood out—some in good ways, some not so much (and one, unfortunately, you can’t even get anymore 😭). I’m keeping it short and sweet: just the product name, what it’s supposed to do, a highlight ingredient, my quick take, and a rating out of 5 stars. Hope it helps if you’ve been eyeing any of these! Ample:N Solar Shot Sun Stick Function: UV protection (SPF 50+ PA++++) Key Ingredient: Centella Asiatica Review: Glides on like a dream, totally invisible, and zero white cast—finally, a stick that works for oily skin! Rating: ★★★★★★★ For It Azulene Cicalming Clay Mask to Foam (Discontinued) Function: Soothing + Deep Cleansing Key Ingredient: Azulene Review: Loved the calming feel and gentle cleanse, but sad it’s discontinued—I would’ve repurchased in a heartbeat. Rating: ★★★★☆ Ample:N Hyaluron Shot Hydration Ampoule Function: Deep Hydration Key Ingredient: Hyaluronic Acid Review: Super juicy texture, layers well under SPF, but a bit sticky if you overdo it. Rating: ★★★★☆ BOH Probioderm Collagen Remodeling Serum Function: Firming + Anti-Aging Key Ingredient: Probiotics Complex Review: Rich but not greasy, feels luxe, and gives that plump, post-facial glow overnight. Rating: ★★★★★ Let me know if you’ve tried any of these or have other K-beauty recommendations! I’m always looking to rotate something new into my AM/PM routine—especially for hydration and barrier support.

I’m not even going to lie—I went to Costco that day for frozen dumplings and a five-pound bag of spinach. Nothing fancy. Just a chill grocery run on a lazy Saturday afternoon. You know the vibe: oversized carts, free samples, and the occasional dangerous detour through the home goods aisle (yes, I did briefly consider a blender I do not need). But somehow, I ended up walking past the health and beauty section—a place I usually skip because, let’s be real, I never expect to find anything truly good for my face there. But this time? This time was different. Right at the end of the aisle, there was a stack of big white boxes that stopped me in my tracks. The packaging was simple—white tubes with a little green—and the words “Skin1004 Centella Soothing Cream” stared back at me like a message from the skincare gods. I blinked. I stared. I picked it up and turned it over. Was I really seeing a legit Korean centella cream set in Costco? For $19.99 for two full-size tubes? I had to double check. I whipped out my phone, Googled it right there between the supplements and shampoos. Yup—verified. This was the real Skin1004 cream. A brand I’d seen on TikTok and raved about on Reddit threads for being ultra-soothing and good for sensitive or acne-prone skin. I’ve had this brand on my wishlist forever, but honestly? Import prices and shipping fees always made me hesitate. One 75ml tube goes for $17.00 at Olive Young. But now I was staring at two 100ml tubes for under $20. That’s over twice the amount of product for basically the same price. To give some context, I have oily skin. Like, I swear I just washed my face and it’s shiny again oily. Most moisturizers either clog my pores or just sit on top of my skin like an oily film. I’ve gone through so many brands that claim to be “lightweight” or “gel-based,” only to end up regretting them a week later when my cheeks break out. So the idea of a lightweight Korean cream made with centella (aka cica) that people say helps calm and balance skin? It was basically the unicorn I’d been hunting for. And here it was. At Costco. For an insane deal. I didn’t even hesitate—I tossed it into my cart like I was on a game show and it was the final round. You know how Costco’s inventory is kind of like a roulette wheel? If you see something good, you grab it, because next week it might be gone. I wasn’t taking chances. The funniest part? The woman behind me in line saw it and asked, “Is that any good?” and I said, “I don’t know yet, but it will be.” Bold claims, I know—but I had a feeling. Product : Skin1004 Centella Soothing Cream Skin Type : Oily Routine : Skin1004 Cleanser - Skinfood Carrot Pad - Skin1004 Centella Soothing Cream Packaging : A sleek white pump tube, super easy to use, hygienic, and travel-friendly. Texture : Creamy, but surprisingly light. It spreads easily and absorbs without leaving a greasy layer. Feel : Hydrating but non-sticky, gives a slight cooling sensation when applied. Final Thoughts For my oily skin, this cream worked surprisingly well. Lightweight, calming, and perfect for a basic, effective routine—especially at a price like that. Costco, you really came through.

Heyyy skincare babes! So, the summer air conditioning at home? It’s been blasting 24/7 and drying my face out big time. I’ve been dealing with weird flaky spots and lasting makeup becoming cakey. So I decided to finally try the Jung Saem Mool Essential Mool Micro Fitting Mist—yes, the misty micellar myth from the celeb makeup artist—and guess what? It’s kinda magic. Let me walk you through what’s got me reaching for this bottle like, daily and how it’s totally changed my skin-game. Packaging & First Impressions It comes in a sturdy, sleek white bottle with black lettering—super minimalist, very artsy, and fits nicely in my purse. The nozzle releases a super-fine, soft mist, not like a waterfall spray, but like gentle vapor. No fuss, just easy. A tiny drop of light oils so the mist doesn’t feel totally dry No fragrance that I can smell, which is perfect for sensitive or acne-prone skin types. Texture & Feel – IRL Experience I shake it and mist about 20 cm from my face. The spray is ultra fine—feels like a refreshing touch rather than a splash. Right after spraying, my skin feels instantly quenched, smooth, and barely-moisturized—not sticky, not wet. On dry AC days, it’s been awesome for mid-day, especially over powder—which I thought would mess everything up. But nope! My makeup looked glowy and fresh again—no cracking, no patchiness, went on flawlessly. Even my mom was like, “Your face looks fresh and not flaky!” How I Use It—Routine & Results I spray this right after my toner, morning and night, and literally any time during the day if my face feels tight or dull. Morning: Cleanser → toner → mist → favorite gel moisturizer → makeup Evening: Double cleanse (only if I’m wearing heavy makeup) → mist (before or after sheet mask) → serum or night cream After one week: I noticed my dry patches backstage to vanish and my foundation blended better After three weeks: Even in 6+ hrs of Zoom calls, my skin plateed a calming glowy finish, not dull or cracked Redness settled down—I’m typically reactive, but this seems to calm without heavy silicons. So good for sensitive teen skin. What Makes It Great Explosion of hydration without feeling drenched Stops flakiness from dried AC + long day wear Boosts makeup grip—makes powder and foundation melt beautifully Gentle and lightweight (great for prickle-prone or dry spots) Convenient, travel-friendly design Down-Sides to Know It’s not super cheap, around $30–35 for 120 mL Not a heavy-duty shimmer mist, added flash, not glitter Not magic for super oily skin. You still need blottings TL;DR: I’m obsessed with this mist. It’s super hydrating, smooths skin texture, and revives makeup instantly—even on my driest, most flaky days. Definitely a new holy grail for skin that’s cranky from air conditioning or mask dryness. I already have a backup (just in case…). Rating: 5 / 5

I’m sharing my experience with Ilso Cencera Repair Cream, a hydrating and soothing moisturizer that has become a central part of my routine. As someone who deals with dryness and occasional sensitivity, I’ve recently been exploring more serious barrier-repair products. After hearing a lot of positive buzz, I finally decided to give Ilso a try—and I’m really glad I did. I’ve been using this cream both morning and night for four weeks straight, and it has been a consistent part of my skincare ritual. In this review, I’ll walk you through the packaging, texture, simplified ingredients, how it worked with my skin, and whether I think it’s worth it for those with dry or sensitive skin types. Starting with the packaging, it’s clean and minimal. The product comes in a simple white tube with blue typeface and a flip-cap. There are no fanciful designs or extras—just straightforward, practical skincare. The nozzle is well-designed and dispenses just the right amount without any product waste, which I really appreciate. At 50 mL, the tube is lightweight and secure, making it perfect for travel or tossing into a gym bag without worry. Ingredient-wise, here’s what you’ll find inside. The ingredient list is where this cream really shines, and here are the key components that make it stand out. First, it contains Centella Asiatica extract at around 10%, which is a crowd favorite for calming irritation, reducing redness, and supporting the skin barrier. Then there’s Ceramide NP, at about 2%, combined with cholesterol and fatty acids—together, these help rebuild a weakened skin barrier. It also includes Panthenol (Vitamin B5), which is deeply hydrating and helps lock moisture into the skin. On top of that, there are peptides like palmitoyl tripeptide-5 and hexapeptide-8 to support skin repair and improve texture. Finally, various types of hyaluronic acid deliver hydration in lightweight molecules, targeting both the surface and deeper layers of the skin. This combination—centella, ceramides, panthenol, and peptides—makes it ideal for dry, irritated, or post-procedure skin. It’s also fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and vegan, which is great news for sensitive skin types. That alone gave me the confidence to use it daily without second-guessing. As for texture, the cream has a soft balm-cream consistency. It’s not heavy, and it doesn’t feel greasy. I usually squeeze out about a pea-sized amount, which warms up easily between my fingertips and spreads like silk across the skin. The application is smooth, with no pilling or stickiness. After massaging it in, my skin feels instantly soothed and comfortably hydrated. It’s that kind of formula that disappears into your skin but leaves it feeling cushioned and calm. I’ve kept this in my routine consistently for a full month, and here’s how I’ve been using it. In the mornings, I follow a simple routine: I start with the Cosrx Good Morning Gel Cleanser, then apply the Torriden Toner, followed by two pumps of the Ilso cream, and finish with sunscreen or makeup if needed. At night, I double cleanse if I wore makeup, then use the Skin1004 Centella Ampoule, and finish with the Ilso cream as the final step. So, what happened after four weeks of regular use? First, I noticed real barrier support. My skin started feeling firmer and more resilient, and the patchy dryness I had around my cheeks and nose completely disappeared. I also saw visible calming results. Redness faded within just a few days, and it was especially helpful after microneedling—I didn’t experience the usual sensitivity or irritation. In terms of hydration, this cream delivered deep moisture without any flakiness or tight areas, even during colder days. Despite the rich ingredients, I didn’t experience clogged pores or breakouts, which is rare for me with barrier creams. Texture-wise, my fine lines looked softer, and my skin had a more bouncy, supple feel. Overall, it felt luxe without being greasy, which made it far more wearable than other thick ceramide balms I’ve tried in the past. If I had to summarize what I love about this product, here’s a quick list. The centella-rich formula is ultra-soothing and perfect for calming sensitivity and redness. It includes real skin-barrier heroes like ceramide NP, peptides, and panthenol. The texture is light enough for daily use, even in warmer weather, but nourishing enough for dry winter months. I experienced zero irritation—no fragrance, no stinging, no sticky finish. The packaging is also compact, hygienic, and dispenses neatly, which is a small but important detail for me. At this point, Ilso Cencera Repair Cream has earned its place as a staple in my skincare routine. I find it especially effective during colder months or when my skin is recovering from treatments like retinol or exfoliation. It’s gentle, effective, hydrating, and truly barrier-repairing without feeling heavy or overly occlusive. Would I repurchase it? Without hesitation. I’ve already ordered a second tube and would easily recommend it to anyone looking for a safe, dependable night cream. For me, it’s the go-to when my skin needs resilience and long-lasting hydration. To quickly wrap it up, here’s my TL;DR summary. My skin type is dry, sensitive, and often barrier-compromised. I use this cream for both morning and evening hydration and repair. The key benefits I’ve seen are calming, barrier support, and deep hydration that lasts. The feel is creamy and soft without any greasiness. The only drawbacks are a slightly higher price point and the fact that it’s harder to find in the U.S. Still, I’d rate it a solid ⭐️5 out of 5. I highly recommend this to anyone with dry or sensitive skin who’s in need of a fragrance-free, barrier-friendly moisturizer that actually delivers on its calming claims. It’s rare to find something this gentle and effective in one tube, but Ilso pulled it off.

Hey skincare friends! I’m in my late 30s with a medium-deep/olive complexion, and I wanted to share a full breakdown of the Dr.G Brightening Up Moisture Sun. I was a loyal fan of their green R.E.D Blemish Soothing Up Sun for years because it was great for calming and offered solid mineral protection. But recently, I was craving a bit of glow and tone-smoothing without having to wear makeup every day. So I picked up the Brightening Up Moisture Sun version. I’ve been using it daily for over a month now, and here’s everything I’ve noticed — the good, the okay, and a bit of the meh. Packaging & Application First off, the packaging is simple and no-nonsense. It comes in a clean white tube with soft orange accents, including the cap and logo. There are no frills, floral prints, or cute characters — just skincare that looks clinical and efficient. Texture & Wear When you pump it out, the cream has a pastel peach-beige tint. It definitely looks tinted but blends easily and applies like a soft primer. I usually dot it around my face and gently pat it in rather than rubbing. After about 30 seconds, it sets to a soft matte finish with a velvety feel — hydrated but not greasy. It left no residue under my BB cream or foundation and didn’t pill at all. Even in humid weather, it kept shine under control for several hours before I needed to blot. Reviews on Hwahae and Amazon reflect the same — a slight glow, more even tone, and no dryness or white cast. Month-Long Use & Real Results Here’s how I’ve been using it in the mornings. Cleanse Hydrating toner Two pumps of Dr.G sunscreen, patted in Light moisturizer if needed Makeup (optional) After four weeks of daily use, here’s what I’ve noticed: Tone evenness: My skin looks slightly brighter and more even. Oil control : My T-zone stays matte until the afternoon. A friend even commented that I looked less shiny at lunchtime. Hydration : No tightness, even on my drier cheek areas. The finish feels breathable yet smooth. No irritation : I haven’t had any breakouts or stinging, even when I accidentally applied it over freshly exfoliated skin. One reviewer did mention needing to re-moisturize dry areas before applying, or it could feel a bit powdery — so I make sure to prep well. Pros & Cons Pros Soft tone-up tint that brightens without an ashy cast, even on deeper skin Matte hydrating finish that controls oil but doesn’t dry out Blends well under foundation without pilling Cons Not full coverage — more of a light tone correction Might cling to dry patches if you skip moisturizer Slightly higher price (~$21–32 for 50 ml) Tips & How I Use It Best Dot and gently pat it in instead of rubbing to avoid streaks and keep the tone-up effect even. Pre-hydrate any dry areas, especially the cheeks, before applying. On drier days or during winter, layer it with a more moisturizing SPF. It works well as a primer alternative — just apply under tinted moisturizer or powder for a smooth base. For reapplication, blot first, then lightly tap more product where needed. Final Verdict & Rating: 8/10 All things considered, this has become my favorite sunscreen update in years. It’s perfect for anyone with oily or combination skin who wants subtle brightness and hydration. On my medium-deep tone, it helps my skin look more even and gives a soft glow — no chalkiness or greasiness, just clean, fresh-looking skin. Would I rebuy? Absolutely. I’ve already purchased a backup and plan to keep it in my routine for as long as it’s available.

Hey skincare fam! I'm absolutely obsessed with skincare science (yes, I read clinical ingredient breakdowns for fun). Recently, I scored the limited‑edition Numbuzin No.1 Pantothenic B5 Active Soothing Serum with the adorable Pochacco Sanrio packaging (sky-blue pump bottle featuring Pochacco 🐶), and I’ve been testing it for several weeks now. Here's my deep nerdy breakdown on why it’s worth the hype—or maybe not—for oily, combo, or acne-prone skin types. 🎨 Packaging & Aesthetic Vibes First off, can we talk about that bottle? Transparent clear glass-ish plastic with a pastel sky‑blue label featuring Pochacco, K‑beauty turns cute into art. The pump is soft and precise, super easy to dispense 2–3 pumps without waste. The blue cap feels cool to touch and makes it travel‑safe. It’s functional cuteness, perfect for building that “shelfie aesthetic.” 🧪 Ingredient Analysis + Claims Here’s what officially is inside, per YesStyle and the brand website. Micro pantothenic acid (B5) & panthenol (~1%) – for barrier repair, hydration, and calming. Beta-glucan – to soothe redness and support immunity of skin. Niacinamide – oil control, pore refining, and brightening. Hyaluronic acid / trehalose / sodium hyaluronate mix – fast-absorbing hydration. Soothing Booster 12 Complex including dipotassium glycyrrhizate, licorice root extract, sophora, heartleaf, centella etc. for anti-inflammatory support. 💧 Texture & Application II: What It's Like on Skin Consistency: Lightweight, water‑gel texture—not milky, not thick—evaporates fast. Scent: Almost no fragrance. It’s clean, slightly plant‑like, very subtle. Absorption: Dries down completely in less than a minute. Leaves no tacky film. Finish: My combination/oily skin woke up more balanced, less midday shine, slightly matte but never dry-looking. 📅 My Routine & Observations (3+ Week Use) Here’s my current usage plan, textbook “skin science meets practice” Mornings Double cleanse (gentle oil cleanser + low-pH gel cleanser) - Toner - 2 pumps of this serum, gently patted into T-zone and cheeks - Light moisturizer if needed - SPF (always!) Evenings Oil cleanse (if wearing makeup) - Follow up with the serum (sometimes layered after AHA/BHA) - Moisturizer or sleeping mask Results so far Oil control: My T-zone no longer looks glossy at midday. Skin feels smoother. Breakouts: Old pimples heal faster. New ones are smaller and calmer. Texture: Cheeks and jawline feel softer, more elastic. Redness: Flare-ups subside more quickly after applying purifier toner or lotion. No irritation so far. ✅ Pros & Cons Table Pros Cons Lightweight, non-greasy hydrating gel Pantothenic acid content low if you're expecting high dose Soothes redness and breakouts gently Not ultra‑moisturizing for extremely dry skin Helps oil control without stripping Some report whiteheads/comedones after use (individual reaction) Blends seamlessly into layers, not pilling May not replace actives like benzoyl peroxide for severe acne Cute Pochacco packaging adds joy to routine Hard to find in US retail yet 🔬 Skincare Science + My Verdict From a “skincare nerd” perspective, the blend of panthenol + beta-glucan + niacinamide + hyaluronic acid makes sense for acne-prone or oily skin needing hydration and barrier repair. The Soothing Booster Complex provides herbal anti-inflammatory support. While pantothenic acid percentage may be small, the synergy of ingredients delivers visible results. Given Vogue named this serum the “Best for Acne” in Korea with oil-regulating and soothing properties, it's no wonder it’s trending. After a month of consistent use, it's earned 4.6/5 from me. Love it for everyday maintenance, especially in warmer months. Will I repurchase? Totally, if it becomes easier to buy in the States or they restock this cute Pochacco edition! 🧠 Final Rating: 4.6 / 5 — Numbuzin No.1 Pantothenic B5 Active Soothing Serum If you have oily or combination skin, deal with mild breakouts or redness, and want a hydrating yet non-greasy serum that also helps manage oil, this is a smart pick. For dry skin types or severe acne, you'll likely need more occlusion or targeted treatments, but as a soothing, balancing serum? It’s a winner.

Hi everyone! I wanted to share my experience using a Korean cleanser that a close friend of mine sent over from Seoul. I’m in my early 30s with combination skin (oilier T-zone, dry cheeks), and I'm always curious to try new K-beauty products, especially if they’re gentle and plant-based. The product is called Point& Calming Mugwort Scrub Foam. I had never heard of the brand Point& before, but my friend swore by it, saying it helped calm her skin while giving a mild exfoliation. I figured why not? I was especially intrigued because it’s a low pH cleanser (love that for maintaining the skin barrier), and it includes real mugwort extract, a popular calming herb in Korean skincare. First Impressions Right off the bat, the packaging is minimal but cute. It's a soft green tube, nothing fancy, but it feels clean and functional. When I squeezed it out, I immediately noticed the texture: it's a soft gel-cream hybrid with visible little pieces of what I assume is real mugwort leaf. It’s got a slightly earthy herbal scent, mild, not overpowering, which I appreciated. The exfoliating beads are not sugar or salt but rather soft plant-based microbeads (or so I assume). They’re definitely noticeable when massaging into the skin, but not sharp or harsh. I’ve been using this about 1-2 times a week as a physical exfoliator, not as a daily cleanser. On the Skin: Feel, Foam & Rinse It spreads really nicely, and with a bit of water, it turns into a light foam—not crazy bubbly, just enough to feel like you’re getting a proper cleanse. The beads stay intact but don’t feel like they’re scratching my skin, which is super important to me because my skin can get irritated easily. After rinsing, my skin felt clean but not stripped, which is impressive. You know how some exfoliating cleansers leave your face squeaky and dry? This one doesn’t do that. It leaves a slightly hydrated feel, maybe thanks to the mugwort extract, which is known for its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. What I Liked Low pH: Great for maintaining skin barrier, especially important for those of us in our 30s! Gentle exfoliation: Enough to smooth out rough patches without causing redness or microtears. Real mugwort pieces: Unique touch! Feels like a mini spa experience. Non-stripping: Doesn’t dry out my skin like other foaming scrubs. What Could Be Better Not fragrance-free: Although the scent is light, it might be worth noting for those with sensitive noses. Availability: I haven’t seen this brand widely available in the US. Hopefully, they expand! Exfoliating beads: If you prefer enzyme or acid-based exfoliation only, this might not be your cup of tea. Final Verdict: 🌟🌟🌟🌟☆ I give it a solid 4 out of 5 stars. It’s a great weekly exfoliating cleanser that keeps my skin feeling refreshed without irritation. I wouldn’t use this every day, but that’s not what it’s meant for. For someone with combo or sensitive skin who wants that clean but calm feeling, this is worth trying. Would I repurchase? If it were easier to get in the States—yes! Until then, I’ll cherish what’s left in this tube.