What's up grils! I wanted to share a roundup of all the skincare I’ve been using the past couple of months. I picked these up at the end of March so it’s been just over two months of consistent testing. Since I love writing quick reviews, I'm gonna show one item every day. About Me Skin type : Combo leaning dry Skin concerns : Sensitivity, acne-prone, fine lines, hyperpigmentation, and large pores Climate : Mildly humid spring weather, nothing too extreme Quick note : All of these products are fragrance and essential oil free. If I mention a scent, I’m referring to the natural scent that sometimes comes with unscented formulas. So, Today I'm gonna talk about Skin Aqua UV Super Moisture Gel. Rating : 5/5 Would Repurchase This has been a staple in my routine for years as I’ve gone through at least 3 or 4 bottles, even back when it had the older packaging! It’s much less greasy than Biore and leaves my skin with a healthy, natural glow instead of looking dull or overly shiny. What I love most is how versatile it is, perfect for both indoor and outdoor use, and it’s never broken me out. It also feels super lightweight and comfortable, even on my combo skin. Bonus, my mom loves it too, so that’s saying something! The bigger bottle size makes it super cost-effective, especially if you’re reapplying throughout the day. All in all, it’s one of those rare sunscreens that checks all the boxes for daily wear. Here is my last day-shelf! Don't miss out!

Skin type : Combination with oily T-zone and dry cheeksKey ingredient : 100% Centella Asiatica Extract After finishing the entire bottle, I can confidently say the SKIN1004 Centella Ampoule lives up to the hype. It’s incredibly lightweight and hydrating, an effortless fit in both my morning and evening routines. Thanks to its watery texture, it layers beautifully with other serums and doesn’t interfere with actives or thicker products. On my skin, it behaved similarly to a hyaluronic acid serum, though it’s a bit less hydrating. Where it really shines is in its calming effect, perfect for anyone with sensitive or easily irritated skin. Within a few weeks of use, my skin looked more radiant and felt noticeably plumper and smoother. There’s a subtle, natural glow it gives that’s hard to describe, just that healthy, juicy look, iykyk. SKIN1004 has honestly become one of my holy grail brands, and this ampoule is a standout. It’s simple, no-fuss, and effective.

This lightweight, watery cleansing oil makes a strong first impression with its minimal, no-frills formulation. It glides onto dry skin effortlessly and emulsifies beautifully with water, making it easy to rinse away makeup, even stubborn waterproof mascara and long-wear sunscreen don’t stand a chance. Fragrance-free and gentle, it’s a solid choice for those sensitive to added scents. I appreciated how little effort was needed to break everything down; a quick massage was enough to dissolve the day’s layers. However, the experience isn’t without its drawbacks. Despite the smooth rinse, this oil does leave behind a slight residue that lingers on the skin. It’s not greasy per se, but enough to make a good second cleanse absolutely necessary. For those who prefer a clean-rinsing first cleanser, this might be a dealbreaker. Therefore, while effective and pleasant to use, the residual film combined with the price point makes it a non-repurchase for me. I’ll be returning to trusted staples like Muji or Beauty of Joseon’s oil cleansers, which offer similar performance with a cleaner finish. That said, I will not repurchase it again.

Product Info • Where to purchase : YesStyle • Price : $9.80 • Volume : 4.05 oz • Made in : South Korea Ethics & Safety Info • Vegan : No • Cruelty-free : Yes • Malassezia-safe : No • EU Allergen-Free : Yes • Shelf Life After Opening : 12 Months What is it? The brand describes this as a creamy cleanser that foams into a rich lather. It’s designed to remove impurities with a coconut-derived surfactant, sebum pulling out dirt from the pores, makeup, and sweat without drying out the skin, thanks to hydrating ingredients like glycerin. * Personally, I’d describe it a little differently, more on that below. • Claims : - Deep pore cleansing - Makeup and sunscreen removal - Gentle enough for daily use • Supposedly good for : Sensitive + Irritated skin • What I think : I wouldn’t recommend this to sensitive or irritated skin types. I also think it could feel drying for those prone to dehydration. Packaging & How to Use • Plastic squeeze tube with a flip-top cap. Worth noting as the product tends to collect in stringy bits around the nozzle. • Directions : Dispense a good amount onto wet hands, rub together to form a lather, then rinse off with lukewarm water. • How I Use It : I used this primarily to wash off sunscreen. A small amount went a long way as I could easily cleanse my face, neck, and the back of my neck with one application. It lathers nicely once water is added. However, rinsing it off took a little longer than expected. And no matter how carefully I avoided the eye area, this stung every single time. Key Ingredients • Lauric Acid : Anti-blemish • Glycerin : Moisturising • Quillaja Saponaria Bark Extract : Cleansing and moisturising • Surfactants : Myristic Acid, Lauric Acid, Coco-Glucoside, • Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Arachidic Acid, Quillaja Saponaria Bark Extract Texture & Sensory Experience • Texture : More like a sticky, opaque gel than a cream. Not easy to spread unless your skin is damp. • Sticky? : Yes, especially without water. • Greasy? : No. • Fragrance? : Yes, lightly floral and soapy. Not overpowering, but not fragrance-free either. Duration of Use • 2–3 weeks • Will I Finish It? : No. The Effect • Provides a very thorough cleanse. You can feel it pulling impurities out. • Leaves my skin feeling tight right after rinsing and that tightness increases the longer I go without applying follow-up skincare. • Stings my eyes every time, despite careful rinsing. What I Liked • Lathers well and spreads easily once wet • A little goes a long way, very economical • Effective at cleansing and removing sunscreen What I Didn’t Like • Stings the eyes no matter how carefully I rinse • Too drying for my dehydration-prone skin • Contains fragrance Overall Rating & Conclusion 3/5. Not the worst cleanser I’ve used, but not a repurchase for me. It’s the kind of foaming cleanser I actively avoid, tightening, slightly stripping, and just unpleasant around the eyes. If you have very oily skin and live in a hot, humid climate, you might get along with this better than I did. Otherwise, I’d suggest gentler, non-stripping options. • Would I Repurchase? : No. • Dupe? : If you’re looking for a foaming cleanser, the Krave Matcha Hemp Hydrating Cleanser has a similar texture though it also wasn’t ideal for my skin type. Surprisingly, I found the Numbuzin No.1 Cleanser to be less drying than this one.

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. Biafine Emulsion – 7/10 Pros : This is a classic for a reason. Biafine is incredibly soothing and really comes through in a pinch, especially when you’ve overdone it with exfoliants or ended up sunburnt after a long day outside. It actually relieves stinging and discomfort, and helps speed up recovery for compromised skin. It’s also super affordable and comes in a generous tube. Cons : While effective, it does contain sodium alginate and fragrance, which could be potential irritants for some users. It's also not really intended for daily use or as a regular moisturizer as it’s more of a treatment product. Bottom Line : Think of this as your emergency skin salve, not a daily staple. It’s a solid option to keep on hand when your barrier’s been through it, like after a retinol mishap or accidental sun exposure. 2. Typology Purifying Cleansing Gel with 2% Zinc PCA + Bamboo Extract – 3/10 Pros : I really admire Typology’s clean, minimalist approach to skincare. The brand’s aesthetic is lovely, and this cleanser smells refreshing without being overpowering. It also contains zinc PCA, which is a nice ingredient for oil control and breakouts. Cons : Unfortunately, this cleanser just didn’t work for my skin. Despite the gentle promise of its formula, it felt drying and slightly stripping, especially with regular use. It also includes eucalyptus oil and limonene, both of which can be irritating for sensitive or dry skin types. Bottom Line : It’s one of those products that sounds great on paper but doesn’t quite translate on the skin, especially if your barrier is easily disrupted. If you’re prone to dryness or sensitivity, I’d skip this one. 3. Vacation Classic Whip SPF 30 Sunscreen Mousse – 5/10 Pros : Okay, this one is definitely a conversation starter. The whipped cream-style packaging is super fun and playful, and the mousse texture makes it really easy to spread on the body. It leaves a lovely glow and doesn’t feel heavy or greasy. Cons : While cute, it’s not the most practical sunscreen. The canister can be a bit messy to use, especially if you’re in a rush or applying outdoors. SPF 30 is also a bit low for prolonged sun exposure, and it stung my eyes when I used it on my face, definitely better reserved for body use. Bottom Line : It’s more of a novelty than a high-performance sunscreen. Great for beach days and Instagram, but if you're looking for serious protection or something face-safe, their cream formula is a better bet. 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:)

What's up grils! I wanted to share a roundup of all the skincare I’ve been using the past couple of months. I picked these up at the end of March so it’s been just over two months of consistent testing. Since I love writing quick reviews, I'm gonna show one item every day. About Me Skin type : Combo leaning dry Skin concerns : Sensitivity, acne-prone, fine lines, hyperpigmentation, and large pores Climate : Mildly humid spring weather, nothing too extreme Quick note : All of these products are fragrance and essential oil free. If I mention a scent, I’m referring to the natural scent that sometimes comes with unscented formulas. So, Today I'm gonna talk about Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence. Rating : 3.5/5 Might Repurchase but only as a budget-friendly, indoor sunscreen option, not for serious sun exposure. I know this sunscreen is super hyped, but honestly, I don’t totally get the love. It’s definitely not bad as it goes on easily, feels super lightweight, and it didn’t break me out or sting my eyes, which is always a plus. But for me, it just made my skin so oily and kind of dull-looking throughout the day. Definitely not something I’d feel comfortable wearing out on a hot day or under makeup. That said, I’ve been using it indoors on no-makeup days, and it’s totally fine for that. I’m not 100% sure how well it holds up under direct sun since I haven’t tested it much outside, but for light, everyday use indoors, it does the job. Here is my last day-shelf! Don't miss out!

Just repurchased my holy grail toner and figured it was the perfect time to give it a quick shoutout, especially since it still feels like one of the more underrated toners in the AB world. For context, I have combination skin that leans oily in the summer, is very acne-prone, and currently going through a phase of pregnancy-related dehydration. So I’m looking for something that’s lightweight, non-irritating, and seriously hydrating without making my skin feel greasy or clogged. This toner is incredibly lightweight, but don’t let that fool you as it’s deeply hydrating and leaves my skin with a healthy, hydrated glow. It has a slightly tacky finish, which I don’t mind, because that’s thanks to the rich concentration of humectants doing their job. I usually apply two layers, which is more than enough for my skin, but it’s totally buildable if you enjoy the full 7-skin method vibe. Best part? Any serums or moisturizers I use afterward sink in beautifully with no pilling or weird texture. This formula is packed with soothing and hydrating ingredients, think madecassoside for calming, green tea extract for antioxidants, and betaine and glycerin for moisture retention. No fragrance, no alcohol, and a pH of 5.5 means it’s gentle enough for daily use, even for sensitive or compromised skin. This is one of those rare toners that just quietly does its job really well. It doesn’t try to be flashy or do too much and that’s exactly why it works. If your skin barrier is feeling off or you just want a solid, no-fuss toner that hydrates and soothes without clogging or irritation, this one is definitely worth a try. I'd say this is 10 out of 10. A quiet MVP in my routine. Let me know if you’d like help writing a comparison with other toners you've tried!

If you're looking for something to give your skin that plumped, glassy finish, this might just be it. Consistency? A thick, glue-like gel texture that’s definitely on the stickier side, like a clear glue or a gripping primer. Application & Absorption? The consistency makes it a bit tricky to dispense with the dropper, but once applied to damp skin, it spreads easily and sinks in within seconds. It does leave a noticeable tacky finish at first, but that completely disappears once a moisturizer is layered on top. Fragrance? Fragrance-free, which makes it a nice option for sensitive skin. Effects? Delivers a soft, dewy glow and noticeable plumping with regular use. Over time, I found my skin felt smoother and more resilient. Status? Holy grail, I’ve just restocked. Enough said.

Product Info • Where to purchase : Amazon • Price : $19.99 • Volume : 2.70 oz • Made in : South Korea • Vegan? : No • Cruelty-Free? : The brand states it is cruelty-free, though they do sell in China. • EU Allergen-Free? : Yes • Malassezia-safe? : No • Shelf Life After Opening : 12 months • pH : 5.5 What is it + What does it do? This is a hydrating essence formulated with Niosome Panthenol to moisturise and strengthen the skin barrier, offering long-lasting hydration without a greasy finish. What is a Niosome? Similar to liposomes, niosomes are delivery systems that help carry active ingredients deeper into the skin. Niosomal Panthenol is more chemically stable and has a longer shelf life than liposomes, making it ideal for sensitive or barrier-compromised skin. • Aims to : - Nourish and moisturise multiple layers of the skin - Tackle dehydration - Leave a lightweight, non-greasy finish - Supposedly good for: Dehydrated and sensitive skin types. • What I think : I agree and it’s especially suited for dry, sensitive, or dehydrated skin types. For oily or combination skin, it works best in a lightweight routine or layered beneath a thinner moisturiser. Packaging A soft plastic bottle with a thin nozzle that dispenses easily when squeezed. Comes with a screw-top cap. The packaging is sturdy and travel-friendly. • Directions : “After cleansing and using toner, apply a moderate amount to the face and gently dab for better absorption.” How I Use It I apply this at night. Due to its liquid-cream texture, I initially used it as a standalone moisturiser but found it a bit too tacky for that. Now, I apply a thin layer underneath a light moisturiser. It provides enough hydration on its own for my oily-combination skin, especially in cooler weather. Key Ingredients • Panthenol (11,000ppm) : Hydrating + barrier-supporting • Madecassoside : Antioxidant, soothing • Ceramide NP + Glycerin : Skin-identical, barrier-repairing • Anthemis Nobilis Flower Extract : Soothing Texture & Feel This is a gel-cream hybrid with a slightly runny texture and it’ll drip if you’re not careful. It spreads easily, feels cooling upon contact, and absorbs quickly. It feels very hydrating without being greasy. • Sticky? : A little, especially if over-applied or used alone. Applying a moisturiser on top helps. • Greasy? : No • Balls up? : Not under moisturiser. May pill if over-applied and rubbed. • Does this sting on irritated/sensitised skin? : If used right after shaving, yes. For a gentler option, I’d recommend the Geek & Gorgeous Stress Less serum. Season & Skin Type Suitability • Dry skin : Great all year. • Oily/Combo skin : Ideal in winter or dry weather, or layered lightly under a gel moisturiser. • Fragrance? : Fragrance- and essential oil-free. Good under makeup? : Yes, as long as you don’t overdo the amount. Usage History • How long have I been using it? : 3 months • Will I finish it? : Yes • How long will it last? : Likely another 4–5 months The Effect This leaves skin feeling hydrated, slightly plumped, and smoother. It softens dehydration lines and adds that cushiony feel. While not the most soothing product I’ve used, it didn’t irritate or worsen my skin. What I like • Fragrance- and EO-free • Lightweight but moisturising • Doesn’t irritate my skin • Absorbs well and feels cooling • Good for layering • Hygienic and sturdy packaging What I don’t like • Slight tackiness if over-applied • Subtle plastic scent • Not a standout for soothing Overall Rating & Conclusion 4 / 5. A solid, gentle, and hydrating essence that does exactly what it claims. It layers well, adds moisture, and is ideal for sensitive or dehydrated skin. While it’s not a “wow” product, it’s dependable and non-irritating, perfect if your routine needs a simple hydration boost. • Would I repurchase? Yes, especially if I want a basic, lightweight gel-cream essence. That said, I’d also consider the Illiyoon Ceramide Derma Toner as a dupe as it has a similar texture and function.

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. Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask – 3/10 Pros : It smells amazing, fruity and sweet like candy, which makes it feel like a little treat when applying. The texture is thick and balmy, which seems promising at first. Cons : Unfortunately, it just didn’t work for me. Instead of healing or hydrating my lips overnight, I consistently woke up with drier, sometimes flaky lips. It felt like the product just sat on top without truly nourishing. Also, the fact that it comes in a jar means I have to scoop it out every time, which I find a bit unhygienic and inconvenient, especially on the go. Bottom Line : I really wanted to love this because of the rave reviews, but it just didn’t live up to the hype. If you’re sensitive to fragrance or prefer lip products that actually sink in and moisturize deeply, you might want to skip this one. 2. Clarins Lip Comfort Oil – 9/10 Pros : This has become one of my favorite lip products. The texture is plush and cushiony, never sticky, and it gives such a beautiful glossy finish. It actually feels like it’s nourishing my lips while looking like a high-shine gloss. The applicator is large and luxurious, and a little goes a long way, so the tube lasts quite a while. Cons : I do wish the pigment payoff was a bit stronger in some shades as it’s more of a tinted gloss than a colored lip oil. It’s also on the pricier side for a lip product. Bottom Line : This is a staple in my makeup bag now. If you want a lip product that feels hydrating, looks luxe, and is comfortable to wear, this is definitely worth trying. I’ll keep repurchasing! 3. Paula’s Choice SKIN PERFECTING 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant – 8/10 Pros : One of the most effective products I’ve tried for clearing out clogged pores and smoothing skin texture. The lightweight, watery texture sinks in fast, and you can genuinely see results overnight if your skin is congested. It helps minimize blackheads and keeps breakouts at bay when used consistently but sparingly. Cons : This stuff is strong. It’s easy to overdo it, especially if you’re new to acids. Using it too frequently can lead to irritation, dryness, or even purging. It also has a very chemical scent, almost like alcohol, which may be off-putting for some. Definitely not for super sensitive skin types or those already using other actives like retinoids. Bottom Line : A powerful product that delivers, but needs to be used with care. I only reach for it once or twice a month now, and that’s plenty to keep my skin clear. Patch test first and start slow! 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:)