Beauty Bay Intro to K-Beauty Kit

As well as having some amazing Black Friday deals, Beauty Bay is launching their Intro to K-Beauty Kit and if you have been wanting to find out why K-Beauty has become such a big hit here in the UK, this box is a great introduction.

Said to be worth £80.25, the Intro to K-Beauty Kit will be on sale for just £56 which is a huge 30% saving and it features a curated selection of six must-have products that deliver glowing, hydrated, and healthy skin. Bursting with cult favourites from some of K-Beauty’s most trusted brands, dive into bestsellers from Laneige, ANUA, Beauty of Joseon, and more.  

Purchase the Beauty Bay Intro to K-Beauty Kit

Better still, these products also create a skincare routine and here is what is inside and how they work:

What’s inside?

Step 1: ANUA Heartleaf Quercetinol Pore Deep Cleansing Foam (150ml): A very gentle yet powerful cleansing foam that draws out impurities and minimises pores with heartleaf powder, leaving your skin feeling refreshed and deeply cleansed.

Step 2: I'm From Rice Toner (30ml): This is an amazing balancing rice toner brightens, smooths, and restores hydration to the skin, while gently removing impurities and excess oil.

Step 3: COSRX Snail Mucin (30ml): Known for its protecting and hydrating properties, this lightweight essence uses Snail Secretion Filtrate to improve skin elasticity, as well as leaving skin refreshed and radiant.

Step 4: Round Lab 1025 Dokdo Lotion (200ml): This is an ultra-hydrating lotion which is packed with mineral-rich sea water from the Korean Dokdo Islands, ideal for soothing and nourishing the skin while at the same time maximising water retention.

Step 5: Laneige Lip Glowy Balm in Berry: This is a glossy, slightly tinted lip balm enriched with nourishing shea and murumuru butters with a delicious berry scent.

Step 6 (AM only): Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun : Rice + Probiotics SPF50 (50ml): This is a lightweight, fast-absorbing sunscreen which offers powerful protection from UVA and UVB rays with SPF50+, while at the same time nourishing the skin with rice extracts and probiotics.

Purchase the Beauty Bay Intro to K-Beauty Kit

*this post contains PR samples and/or Affiliate Links unless indicated otherwise - you can learn more on my Disclaimer page.

Popular K-Beauty Trends Transforming Skincare Right Now

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Get ready to explore a trend with no end. Yeah, that’s right. Short for Korean beauty, K-Beauty has deep roots in South Korea’s skincare traditions. The pursuit of clear, healthy skin has been a part of daily routines for centuries in this area of the world. Korean women, historically, have prioritised skincare over makeup. They are using natural ingredients like green tea, rice water, and ginseng to achieve youthful skin. These traditional methods emphasise prevention and nourishment. That is what set the foundation for what would later become the innovative modern K-Beauty industry.

It was in the early 2000s that K-Beauty began to gain global recognition, thanks to its focus on high-quality, affordable products and advanced technology. South Korean beauty brands quickly caught the attention of international markets with their unique offerings, such as BB creams, sheet masks, and cushion foundations. The integration of cutting-edge research with time-honoured ingredients allowed K-Beauty to stand out, introducing the world to multi-step skincare routines and products that were both effective and gentle on the skin.

The philosophy behind K-Beauty is simple: to achieve healthy, glowing skin with a multi-step approach. Today, the K-Beauty industry continues to grow, with more people than ever seeking out the products and routines that promise flawless, radiant skin.

Glass Skin & The Pursuit of a Flawless Complexion

Perhaps one of the most iconic K-Beauty trends is the pursuit of glass skin. Most recently popularised by Netflix series, Emily in Paris. Glass skin is about a complexion that appears so smooth, luminous, and clear that it resembles a pane of glass. The goal of glass skin is to have a face that looks healthy, hydrated, and completely poreless. 

Achieving this look involves a strict skincare routine focused on hydration and layering lightweight products, such as hydrating toners, serums, essences, and sheet masks. The result is a translucent glow that reflects light, creating that perfect dewy finish.

The Famous 10-Step Skincare Routine

A defining feature of K-Beauty is the famous 10-step skincare routine. While the number of steps might seem excessive at first, it is all about layering products for maximum results. The routine typically includes steps like double cleansing (starting with an oil-based cleanser and followed by a water-based one) and toning. 

Then applying essence (a concentrated formula that hydrates and improves skin texture). Treatments like serums and ampoules, sheet masks, eye cream, and SPF during the day are also part of it. For K-Beauty devotees, this ritual leads to youthful, healthy skin, with each product building upon the last to create a flawless finish.

Cushion Foundations 

Another impressive K-Beauty staple is the cushion foundation. And the name has actual meaning. A compact product that delivers a lightweight, wet finish, including sun protection with SPF. Unlike traditional liquid foundations, cushion foundations are in a sponge, making them ideal for on-the-go application. These foundations provide buildable coverage, allowing you to achieve a natural, radiant glow without looking cakey. The portable format has made it a global hit, particularly among those seeking a flawless base with minimal effort.

Sheet Masks Targeting Specific Skin Issues

K-Beauty popularised sheet masks, an easy yet effective way to target specific skin concerns. From hydration to brightening or even firming, sheet masks are available for virtually every skin type and concern. They are often soaked in serums rich in active ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, or collagen, making them a go-to for quick skincare treatments. Sheet masks have become a global beauty trend, offering an affordable way to pamper your skin while achieving noticeable results.

Fermented Skincare with Natural Ingredients

One of the more unique trends within K-Beauty is fermented skincare. Using ingredients like fermented rice, yogurt, and even kimchi in beauty products. This method is all about maximising the potency of natural ingredients. Fermented skincare is a novel idea. It is known to be packed with amino acids, vitamins, and antioxidants, helping with exfoliation, hydration, and improved skin texture. This approach taps into South Korea’s long history of fermentation in both food and beauty. In this way, adding an extra layer of innovation to their skincare industry.

Bubble Foam Cleansers 

Double cleansing is a crucial step in K-Beauty routines, starting with an oil-based cleanser to remove makeup and dirt, followed by a water-based cleanser to clean the skin deeply. A popular choice for the second step is bubble foam cleansers. They are so cool. They create a luxurious lather that helps cleanse the skin thoroughly without stripping it of natural oils. This two-step method ensures all traces of impurities are removed. This is leaving the skin fresh and ready for the next steps.

Ampoules, the Potent Skin Treatments

One of the most potent forms of treatment in K-Beauty routines. They are offering highly concentrated formulas with active ingredients designed to target specific skin issues like dark spots, acne, or wrinkles. They are not as strong as a treatment like Botox, but they do the job. Unlike regular serums, ampoules are used in smaller doses and pack a punch when it comes to boosting skin health. They’ve become popular because of their fast results and ability to address multiple concerns at once, making them a must-have for anyone serious about skincare.

Sleeping Masks & Overnight Skincare Magic

Sleeping masks are certainly a hit. Yet another K-Beauty innovation that has taken the world by storm. These masks are designed to be applied before bed and work overnight to deliver intense hydration and nourishment while you sleep. When you wake up, your skin feels soft, smooth, and rejuvenated. It is an easy, hassle-free way to take your night-time skincare to the next level, and it is perfect for busy individuals who want great results without spending hours on a routine.

Popular K-Beauty Skincare Brands

The Growth of K-Beauty & Its Global Influence

Since K-Beauty's breakout onto the global scene, the industry has continued to grow. It is now estimated that the Korean beauty market is worth over £10 billion pounds yearly. Its reach has seeped beyond skincare itself, to influence the standards of beauty in the West, as brands from across the globe, largely, are adopting the techniques and ingredients employed by K-Beauty. 

As Sarah Lee, co-founder of the K-Beauty brand Glow Recipe, puts it, "K-Beauty has changed the way we approach skincare, focusing on prevention, hydration, and natural beauty rather than covering imperfections."

While the world of K-Beauty offers endless possibilities to get flawless skin, taking into consideration what exactly the skin needs is very important. Since it is really tempting to follow every new trend, it is always good to listen to your skin and introduce more products gradually. As K-Beauty keeps on evolving, during all these years, it has been the cornerstone in the global beauty industry-always offering innovative solutions and endless sources of inspiration to skincare fans worldwide.

*this post contains PR samples and/or Affiliate Links unless indicated otherwise - you can learn more on my Disclaimer page.

Mixsoon Skincare Bundle

I was very kindly sent a skincare collection by Mixsoon to try, a brand I haven't used before and have been using for the past few weeks, so here are some initial thoughts.  I have been a fan of K-Beauty for some time and have used many different brands, all of which I have shared on my blog, so it is a delight to add another brand into that mix.

Combining the English word “mix” and the Korean word for “pure,” Korean beauty brand Mixsoon is dedicated to clean beauty and a minimalist approach to skin care. I was kindly sent a bundle of products to try out from YesStyle and within that bundle are some of the brands Star products such as: Bean Essence, Master Serum and Soondy Centella Asiatica Essence.

Mixsoon Bean Essence - This essence features a jelly-like formula enriched with fermented soybeans, barley, pear, and pomegranate, providing deep hydration and nourishment for your skin. This versatile essence also functions as a peeling gel exfoliant, effectively removing dead skin cells to reveal a smooth, dewy complexion.

Loaded with essential amino acids, vitamins, and natural AHAs, this essence enhances skin vitality and improves overall texture, leaving your skin feeling revitalised and refreshed without any stick residue and it is a delightful texture to use.

Mixsoon Soybean Milk Pad - These are perhaps the most wonderfully kooky product in this collection and the one that intrigued me the most.  These Milky toner pads, can also be used as sheet masks to soothe and hydrate skin!

Inside each sachet are 3 soft pads and each one is packed with fermented soybean milk, centella and hyaluronic acid and they all come together as ingredients to soothe, moisturise and the best part if that you can apply them anywhere - neck, elbows, cheeks, wrists, calves and they even make a good base for priming the skin prior to makeup.

Mixsoon Centella Sun Cream PA++++ SPF50+ - I am a bit obsessed with this Sun Cream, the texture, how it makes my skin feel and no white cast make it just brilliant. With it being SPF50+ it also offers powerful protection against harmful UV rays whilst at the same time, also nourishing the skin due to the inclusion of Centella Asiatica, its star ingredient. With a lightweight, serum-like texture, it absorbs smoothly into the skin without leaving a white cast or stickiness.

Centella Asiatica extract combined with Glycerin, this sun cream offers soothing, balancing, and moisturising benefits as well as helping to combat dry patches, skin irritations, and impurities, while regulating sebum production, making it particularly suitable for sensitive or irritated skin.

Mixsoon Bean Cleansing Oil - This is a lovely lightweight and nourishing formula that effectively removes stubborn makeup and excess oils, leaving your skin refreshed, moisturised, and glowing.  It is Rich in amino acids and antioxidants, this cleanser is infused with soybean, pear, and pomegranate to deeply hydrate your skin, promoting healing and improving texture.

This cleansing oil is also enriched with Vitamin E, this oil-based cleanser protects against free radical damage, helping to maintain a youthful, rejuvenated appearance.

Mixsoon Glacier Water Hyaluronic Acid Serum - This is one of my favourite products within this collection so far. Infused with three types of hyaluronic acid, this serum works to deliver deep hydration, providing an intense moisture boost exactly when your skin needs it.

It has quite a rich texture for a serum, so it is ideal for daily use, leaving skin feeling plump, firm, and supple. The serum also absorbs easily without leaving any sticky residue.

Mixsoon Soondy Centella Asiatica Essence - Described as being the ultimate solution for irritated and troubled skin. This essence is formulated with 100% Centella Asiatica Extract a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory ingredient whose properties work to reduce redness and inflammation, soothing even the most sensitive skin.

This best-selling South Korean Cica essence has been clinically proven to reduce skin irritation by 27%, making it an ideal choice for acne-prone, dull, or uneven skin tones. Centella Asiatica’s potent calming and healing abilities help soothe rashes, minimise redness from acne, and restore a balanced, refreshed complexion, leaving your skin glowing and revitalised.  What I love is how cooling it feels on the skin when used and if you ever have the unfortunate issue with razor burn - this is a god send to use.

Mixsoon Galactomyces Ferment Essence - This Essence works to revitalise dull and tired skin. It is formulated with 100% Galactomyces to tackle issues like discoloration, acne scarring, and pigmentation.

Again, this is a lightweight essence which is said to offer deep hydration and revitalisation while at the same time managing sebum production and enhancing skin elasticity, resulting in a brighter, more even skin tone and a radiant complexion.  This essence is perfect for those with dull, dry, or uneven skin tones, as well as oily skin and visible pores.  

By exfoliating dead skin cells and smoothing your skin’s surface, this vegan and cruelty-free formula strengthens your skin barrier, boosting elasticity and vitality for a refreshed complexion.

Mixsoon Centella Cleansing Foam - This is perhaps my least favourite product in this collection as I am not a fan of foaming cleansers in general, however it is a gentle, soothing, and hydrating facial cleanser that thoroughly cleanses the skin without stripping it of its natural oils, something I was not expecting, if I am being honest.

This cleanser is infused with 32.8% Centella Asiatica Extract, known for its calming and healing properties and it also contains Altermonas, an ingredient that helps lock in moisture, ensuring your skin stays hydrated and comfortable after cleansing. With a mildly acidic pH of 3.0-5.0, the formula aligns with the skin’s natural pH, maintaining balance and reducing the risk of irritation. The rich, soft lather gently removes impurities, leaving your skin refreshed.

Mixsoon Bifida Ferment Essence - This essence is crafted with 100% bifida ferment extract and its yeast-based formula is said to penetrate deeply, delivering essential nutrients that boost your skin barrier and elasticity, resulting in plump, youthful, and radiant skin.  It is also packed with anti-aging benefits, this essence provides intense hydration and nourishment, reinforcing your skin barrier to shield against external damage, pollution, and environmental stressors.

This essence is also ideal for those with acne and rosacea-prone skin, the Mixsoon Bifida Ferment Essence accelerates your skin's natural regeneration process, helping to reduce redness and soothe acne while offering deep nourishment.

Mixsoon Centella Asiatica Toner - Said to be the toner for skin which is irritated and sensitive, this essence is designed to calm and repair irritated skin whilst at the same time boosting hydration and promoting collagen production, leaving your complexion firmer, plumper, and radiant.

Ideal for acne-prone, inflamed, and damaged skin, this Centella Asiatica-infused toner has a wonderful lightweight, water-like consistency that is quickly absorbed, providing the skin with deep nourishment for a clear and rejuvenated appearance. It is also loaded with amino acids, fatty acids, and phytochemicals, this toner delivers essential nutrients, soothing irritations and nourishing your skin for optimal health.

I am still getting to know these products but as an initial view after a few weeks, I am so impressed I would happily try more from the range.  If you have liked what you have read so far, YesStyle have kindly given me a code to save you some money on these products and many others - BEAUTYQUEEN7

*this post contains PR samples and/or Affiliate Links unless indicated otherwise - you can learn more on my Disclaimer page.

The Korean Beauty Trends You Need To Jump on Board With

South Korea has always enjoyed a pretty buoyant beauty industry. In 2023, the market for personal care and beauty products was worth more than £10.5 billion. However, it’s only in the past decade or so that the K-Beauty phenomenon has broken the borders of the Korean Peninsula and inspired trends in the West and elsewhere. Nowadays, you’ll find many Korean cosmetics sitting alongside familiar brands online and in your favourite stores. Wondering which K-Beauty trends you should be following? We’ve got you covered.

Don’t Be Afraid of Face Oils

If you’ve always wanted to incorporate face oils into your routine but were worried about acne-prone skin reacting to them, K-Beauty has the solution. With Korean beauty products, there’s a key focus on all-natural ingredients, with most face oils derived from plants. When delicately applied, they'll nourish your skin, leaving it hydrated and looking smoother. Not ready to brave the waters of face oils just yet? Korean brand Beauty of Joseon offers some incredibly effective moisturising gels that are perfect for oily skin.

Introducing Filter Creams

Feel like a fraud every time you reach for those filter effects after taking a selfie? If you want to be a little more authentic with your appearance, there’s always filter cream. A staple K-Beauty trend, this stuff does exactly what it says on the tin. Once used, your skin will be glowing, looking as though you’ve reached for your go-filter on a smartphone screen. Need more convincing? Far from being a heavy concealer, it’s actually a moisturiser that will nourish the skin. The fact that unsightly lines and pores are blurred is just a benefit.

Don’t Reach for Those Tweezers Just Yet

You probably spend far too much time perfecting your eyebrows. Whether you’re someone who favours barely-there eyebrows or have embraced the power brow, there’s a fair amount of maintenance involved to keep them looking their best. However, the Koreans like to do things a little differently. Slightly feathered brows with separated strands is the ideal here. What’s more, it’s an easy look to pull off.

Rethink Your Beauty Tools

Your cosmetic case is probably bursting at the seams with applicators and accessories you barely use. However, there’s one beauty tool worth adding to your repertoire. In Korea, spatulas are a staple. They’re perfect for applying thin layers of foundation, making them a must if you’re someone who struggles to achieve an even base. Furthermore, unlike pads and brushes, these trusty tools won’t soak up any of your products as you use them.

Make Life Simple with Multipurpose Products

Tired of spending a small fortune on skincare products? Perhaps you’re simply looking to cut down on the amount of time you’re spending in front of the vanity mirror. Once again, the K-Beauty phenomenon has the answer. In Korea, there’s a growing trend for simplification. As well as doing away with needless steps, K-Beauty skincare puts a focus on incorporating multipurpose products. When choosing things like toners and moisturisers, look for products that combine key active ingredients. As well as saving you precious time every day, your bank balance will thank you.

*this post contains PR samples and/or Affiliate Links unless indicated otherwise - you can learn more on my Disclaimer page.

Banobagi Calming Care Cleansing Gel To Foam

Banobagi is a brand I’ve been getting to know for a few months now having been kindly sent some products to try. As a brand they believe that dermatologist grade cosmetics should be accessible to everyone, so many of their products which they use as part skincare treatments at their clinics became commercially available for use at home. I have been using a few of their products, but today I am sharing three products from the Calming Care Collection.

The Calming Care Line is said to be targeted at oily but inner dehydrated skin types, which pretty much describes my skins journey over the past few months. However, this particular line of products is said to also benefit those who have sensitive dry and damaged skin types, the ones who require moisturising and soothing ingredients to return to a comfortable state. 

The Calming Care skincare range consists of 4 products:

• The Calming Care Cleansing Gel to Foam
• Calming Care Moisture Pads
• Calming Care Moisturising Cream
• Calming Care Tone-up Sunscreen.

From that collection I have the first three and not the sunscreen and I’ve been surprised by each one.

Starting with the Calming Care Cleansing Gel to Foam, which in its beautiful pink tube is very aesthetically pleasing, in fact the whole collection is.

As with all cleansers, this one has the job of working to clean and cleanse the skin deeply to remove surface dirt and impurities imbedded within pores. As a pH-balanced gel-to-foam face wash, so again it has been designed to prevent irritation but to also calm the skin and what surprised me was it’s key ingredient: Calamine. Calamine is a childhood treatment for me, when I had chicken pox, I remember the brown bottle coming out of the fridge and it being dabbed on the spots using a cotton bud and there it would dry on my skin to help prevent itching. The same when used within this cleanser, Calamine soothes the skin and working alongside Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid to restore lost moisture, it leaves my skin feeling soft, smooth and hydrated after use.

As this is a gel to foam cleanser, when it is first squeezed out of the tube, it is a clear looking gel with very little scent, but as it comes into contact with water, that gel slowly turns into dense bubbles and it works really well with just your hands or a face cleaning brush. Simply using those bubbles on your skin to cleanse and clean is easy to do and it doesn’t leave the skin feeling dry or stripped of moisture.

Priced around £13.50 for 100ml with GlamTouch, this is a lovely introduction it Banobagi.

*this post contains PR samples and/or Affiliate Links unless indicated otherwise - you can learn more on my Disclaimer page.

Aldi Lacura K-Beauty New Launches

Today I am sharing some new launches from Aldi's Lacura best-selling range which has been inspired by Korean Beauty.  K-Beauty is a huge area within the beauty industry that has really taken off and over the past few years, I have tried a lot of products, so I am delighted once again, to see Aldi throwing their hat into the ring with this lot.

The Aldi Lacura K-Beauty inspired range of K-Beauty products features 10 different products, of which 4 are brand new to the line up and impressively, they are all priced between £1.49 up to £4.99, which could see shoppers save over £199 compared to some other brands!

Aldi’s Lacura K-Beauty Skincare full range:

• Banana Souffle Face Cream 
• Plum Hyaluronic Acid Serum 
• Deep Cleaning Bubble Mask 
• H20 Overnight Face Sleeping Mask 
• Watermelon Gel Moisturiser
• Pineapple Face Serum 
• Avocado Overnight Retinol Sleeping Eye Mask 
• Dewy Lip Balm 

First out of my box of tricks is the Lacura Deep Cleansing Bubble Mask (£1.49) and some might say it has been inspired by the GlamGlow Bubble Sheet Mask (£8).

New for 2022, this Deep Cleansing Bubble Mask is infused with charcoal which helps to purify and cleanse the skin and it only needs 5 minutes of your time.  On the skin, the mask, which fit pretty well, begins to bubble almost instantly.  What I love about these masks is they don't exactly make for pretty photos but they are a lot of fun.  As it bubbles, I didn't find there was any tingling sensation at all, but when I removed the mask, there was a little excess product that I massaged into my skin.

The next product within the K-Beauty range is the Papaya Enzyme Face Scrub (£4.99). 

This scrub, which is inspired by a Glow Recipe product is designed to remove impurities and help improve the appearance and texture of the skin due to its dual exfoliation properties, physical Cellulose and added papaya enzymes.   On this skin, I had expected this scrub to be overly abrasive, but surprisingly it isn't, but if you apply a little pressure you can feel it working against the skin. 

If you skin is in need of some hydration, then the new Lacura Plum Hyaluronic Acid Serum (£4.99) might be just the product you need.

This serum is formulated with three antioxidant-rich plum extracts and is enriched with Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin B5. On the skin it is incredibly lightweight and absorbs incredibly quickly on contact with the skin. Texture wise, I really like how this feels, it is a watery-gel substance that is thick enough to not be runny, but not too thick it just lingers on the skin.  You might also notice that it is inspired by Glow Recipe and their Plum Plump Hyaluronic Serum (£37) 

The next product is one I really like and it is the Banana Souffle Face Cream (£4.99) and again, if your skin needs a little extra TLC, then this cream is the one to try. Again, it has been inspired by Glow Recipe Banana Soufflé Moisture Cream (£36).

Designed to help with hydration, thanks to the inclusion of Squalene, this lightweight cream works to protect your skin’s moisture barrier and when needed, it helps with the healing of dry skin. Other ingredients include  turmeric and Centella Asiatica which host antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and moisturising properties.  There is, as you might expect a very light scent of banana with this cream which I really like.

The next product is one I have shared previously on my blog.  The H2Overnight Face Sleeping Mask (£4.99), which you could say has been inspired by Laneige and their Water Sleeping Mask (£26).

This Sleeping Mask is a lightweight gel mask formulated with Aloe Barbadensis Lead Juice, Rose Centifolia Flower Extract and Sodium Hyaluronate to improve the appearance of tired looking skin overnight.

The final product within my little collection is an eye cream. For me, an eye cream is an essential item and I use mine both morning and evening as part of my routine. From the Aldi Lacura range we have the Avocado Bright eyes Overnight Retinol Sleeping Mask (£4.49).  Again, this product is inspired by Glow Recipe and their Avocado Melt Retinol Eye Sleeping Mask (£41)

This Eye Sleep Mask is described as being a special something to target dark, tired and puffy eyes, well that is me every single morning because my sleep pattern is confused and a tad disturbed and has been for some time. This product is infused with coffee seed extract, avocado oil, and as the name suggests retinol, these ingredients come together to work to banish dark circles, tighten the skin under the eye, to leave you looking bright eyed and bushy tailed. As I am just finishing an eye cream, this is one I am yet to try, so I will update this post in a few months time with how it has gone.

As you can see, there is a huge difference in price between the offerings from the Aldi Lacura K-Beauty range and other brands.  As soon as these products come into stock, they sell out really quickly, so if you see them and want to try them, get them whist you can.  In my local store, all 10 products are on sale but in very limited numbers.

*this post contains PR samples and/or Affiliate Links unless indicated otherwise - you can learn more on my Disclaimer page.

SIORIS CLEANSE ME SOFTLY MILK CLEANSER

It is no secret that I am a huge fan of K-Beauty products and I even have a little directory dedicated to the products I have tried. The latest brand, Sioris, is one that I was kindly sent before Christmas and I wanted to use them for some time before sharing my views.

The first products from Sioris is the Cleanse Me Softly The Milk Cleanser. I am a huge cleansing fan and it is the favourite part of my skincare routine without question. I use balms, oils, lotions, milks, wipes, waters and more. Having combination oily skin, I am always looking to use products which don’t strip my skin and thus definitely doesn’t. The Sioris Cleanse Me Softly Milk Cleanser is said to suit all skin types because of its gentle 5.5 pH, thus it is designed to cleanse the skin without stripping it of its natural oils. 

As well as having a low pH, this cleanser is comprised of all natural ingredients and is described as being nutrient-packed and are all sourced in Korea. Ingredients include:

• Organic Fruit Water (derived from green plum or yuzu), which is packed with nutrients, minerals and vitamins to help to revitalise a skin
• Macadamia Seed Oil which help nourish and leave skin feeling supple, plus it is high in anti-oxidants and fatty acids.
• Plant-derived surfactants which work to leave skin healthy and hydrated, rather than tight and dry.

So expect to also see the likes of Aloe Vera, Broccoli, and Niacinamide included within the ingredients list of this cleanser. 

The Cleanse Me Softly Milk Cleanser can be used as a first cleanser and/or second cleanser depending on your routine, my preference is as a second cleanse in an evening. The texture is just as I had expected, it feels like a lotion and isn’t as runny or water-like as previous milk cleansers that I have used. 

On the skin, you only need a few pumps of the lotion, it does have silky and smooth feel to it and there is a slight fruity scent to it, which must come from the use of fruit water, divine. Rinsing it off using lukewarm water, leaves no residue on the skin, there is also no tightness, no irritation, no stinging just clean feeling skin. There is nothing at all to dislike.

The packaging is clean and has quite the luxurious aesthetic to it and as well as being cruelty-free and Vegan. Priced around £25 for 125ml it isn’t cheap, but it isn’t overly expensive either, it sits nicely within the mid-priced bracket.

*this post contains PR samples and/or Affiliate Links unless indicated otherwise - you can learn more on my Disclaimer page.

A Quick Guide to K-Beauty and Its Most Common Ingredients

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K-Beauty has been taking over the beauty industry for the last 10 years. There are several reasons for its success, but the crucial factors have been quality, affordability and innovation. In this post, we’ll focus on innovation, as K-Beauty products use a lot of ingredients not typically found in the western world.

Here’s a short guide to the most common ingredients found in K-Beauty products and why they’re so useful for your skin. 

Coptis Root Extract

Also known as the Chinese goldthread, Coptis root is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, which can help reduce inflammation of the skin and ease redness. Inflammation of the skin can lead to hyperpigmentation, collagen breakdown and reactive skin. Coptis root serves as a defence against all three, keeping skin calm, cool and irritation-free.

Hyaluronic Acid

There has been a big buzz around hyaluronic acid for a long time in the beauty industry. This acid’s ability to naturally draw moisture up to the surface of the skin has proved incredibly useful for creating supple and hydrated skin. The super-hydrating properties of hyaluronic acid have made it extremely popular among those with dry and eczema-prone skin. 

Beyond the hydrating factor, it’s also been found to help reduce fine lines and wrinkles, which is why it’s now a key ingredient in most new anti-ageing products on the market. Don’t be scared off by the word “acid”, as not all acids are harmful or drying for the skin. This acid is a powerful humectant that will help your body fight off the natural effects of ageing skin.

Liquorice Root

The use of liquorice root, or “sweet root”, goes back centuries, but only recently has it become a popular ingredient in skincare products. Its popularity has mostly come from its ability to help fight off acne, which is a prevalent skin issue in South Korea and all around the world.

Liquorice root is also effective at protecting the skin from the sun’s harsh UV rays, which can cause hyperpigmentation, leading to dark spots. It’s also easy on sensitive skin, making it a useful ingredient for sun creams or moisturisers. 

Centella Asiatica Extract

Centella asiatica, also known as gotu kola, has a fascinating history in folk medicine, and legend has it that tigers roll around in this plant to help heal their wounds. The scientific world has recently become very interested in this plant, and what they have found so far is promising. 

It appears that centella asiatica is useful for dealing with small wounds, burns and scratches, as well as serving as an anti-inflammatory agent for eczema. Researchers also found that it could promote fibroblast proliferation and increase the synthesis of collagen, leading to firmer and more supple skin.

  

Fermented Rice Water

Women in South Korea have been using fermented rice water for centuries to improve their skin. Its ability to naturally fight against large, oily pores can help with acne, blackheads and excess sebum production. It has become hugely popular in skincare all over the world as a result. 

Those using fermented rice water will also note that it deep cleans the pores without affecting or aggravating acne and other skin conditions. It’s also known to help prevent wrinkles and saggy skin. Finally, rice water helps protect the skin from sun damage.

Birch Juice

Birch juice comes from the birch tree and is also known as “birch sap.” In some cultures, they drink the birch sap, which is a superfood in its own right, containing amino acids and antioxidants.

All this makes for one powerful skincare ingredient that deeply nourishes the skin and reduces inflammation and redness all while hydrating in the process. Birch juice is hugely popular among those with very sensitive skin, as it calms the skin and helps fight irritation. 

*this post contains PR samples, pid for links and/or Affiliate Links unless indicated otherwise - you can learn more on my Disclaimer page.

Seoulista Beauty Two to Twinkle Cleanse and Hydrate Christmas Pack

The multi award-winning beauty brand Seoulista Beauty has launched some amazing gift sets for Christmas and I have kindly sent one to share with you. The Two to Twinkle Cleanse & Hydrate Skincare System, which is described as being your ultimate saviour for dry and dehydrated skin is an amazing gift to give and the perfect sized stocking filler, whether the recipient is a skincare fanatic or not.

If you have never come across the Seoulista Beauty brand before then you are in for a treat because they have some of the best face masks I have used. Inspired by the flawless, glass skin of South Korean women, Seoulista Beauty develops innovative skincare in Seoul, which for many is widely regarded as the epicentre of beauty. Created and tested by dermatologists, each treatment from the brand is formulated with targeted ingredients for every skin type. It’s boasts salon-grade skincare that delivers professional results for the face and body and given that they are an award-winning brand, they clearly have got something right.

The Seoulista Beauty Two to Twinkle Cleanse & Hydrate Skincare System, which comes packaged ready to gift, is said to combine powerful, effective cleansing using the one-step Super Hydration Instant Facial™. This unique duo works hard to ensure you have a plumped and hydrated party-perfect complexion. 

The Set Contains:

Seoulista Super Hydration Instant Facial® (25ml) x 2 

The Super Hydration Instant Facial is made from natural ingredients and by a team of Dermatologists. The natural coconut gel-like mask is infused with hyaluronic acid which provides intense hydration, moisture and it also conditions the skin. Also included in an infusion of vitamins which work to hydrate the complexion for visibly smoother, supple and plump skin after just 20 minutes.

This Super Hydration Instant Facial is said to be suitable for all types of skin and is perfect for a using as a part of your daily skin prep routine before applying makeup or popping on in the evening after a day exposed to the harsh elements. Free from parabens, mineral oil, sulphates and artificial colours. This mask is also biodegradable, vegan and cruelty free.

Seoulista Beauty® Magic Cleanse™ x 1

Designed as a sustainable cleansing solution, the dual sided disc helps to lift and remove dirt, oil and makeup to leave you with clean and clear skin, just by adding water.  One side of the disc is designed to gently buff the skin as it is slightly textured, meaning it works easy to dislodge and remove dirt, grime and other impurities.  Once you have cleansed your face with one side, turn it over to reveal a much softer and fluffy side to wipe away any excess dirt, oil and makeup that is sitting on the skins surface.

This kit is currently on sale, via Lookfantastic for just £12.80* which is an absolute bargain because bought separately, the cost would be close to £21, so it is an amazing saving and as I have said already, a great gift for someone, even yourself for that time out, me time. 

*this post contains PR samples and/or Affiliate Links unless indicated otherwise - you can learn more on my Disclaimer page.

Korean Skincare Techniques Which You Need To Try

South Korea is known for many things, and skincare is one of them. Korean beauty gurus have harnessed precise, delicate, lengthy skincare routines which produce clear pores, glowing complexion and blemish-free faces all round. Now world-renowned for their expertise, Korean beauticians have shared their skincare hacks with the rest of Asia - and in turn, the rest of the world. Asian citizens from the luxury Emporis Kota Damansara in Kuala Lumpur, to the Gangnam region of Seoul to the Shibuya in Tokyo know that Korean skincare is the best of the best. Even over in the West, throughout Europe and America, Korean beauty regimes have made waves in beauty communities. 

Want glowy, stunning skin? Read on to find out three Korean skincare tips you need to try.

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The Art of Double Cleansing.

If you have never heard of double cleansing, prepare to have your mind blown. This Korean skincare technique requires a two-step cleanse, rather than a simple foaming cleanser morning and night as most people do. Double cleansing involves two simple steps, which are: 

Oil cleansing.

Oily skinned people, listen up. Oil cleansing doesn’t make your skin oily - in fact, it can prevent your skin from overproducing sebum. Cleansing oil is applied dry to your face, even over makeup after it has been worn all day, and rubbed in as normal. The oil combines with the oils and dirt on the surface of your skin, creating a kind of balm. Then, apply water - and the oil will become milky and wash away.

Foam cleansing.

Next comes the foam cleanse. Foam cleansing is very popular as the only form of cleansing in most people’s skincare routines. But foam cleansing after oil cleansing allows the cleanser to penetrate more deeply into your skin - after all, the oil cleanser has already got rid of surface oils and dirt, so the foam cleanser acts as a deeper cleanser. Wash it away, and you have completed the double cleanse!

Layering Your Products.

The order in which you apply your products determines how effective they are. Korean skincare specialists believe that locking in the effects of each product will make them effective; if you don’t layer correctly, the product can be completely ineffective.

There is some dispute as to the precise order in which your products should be applied, but here’s the gist: cleansers should be applied first, followed by toner. After toner, serums or peeling gels come next; these are followed by eye cream, and lastly by moisturisers. This order will maximise the effectiveness of your skincare and improve the appearance of your skin by a long way.

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Treating Your Skin To A Massage.

While layering and applying the correct products is important, the way you treat your face is also vital. Koreans have been using facial massagers such as jade rollers for years now; over in the West, things are just catching on. Massaging your face, either with clean hands or with a facial roller, helps to contour and preserve the youthful structure of your face for longer.

In addition to massage and contour, there is much emphasis placed on the amount of time for which you apply and massage in your products. Most people apply their cleansers for around ten seconds and wash them off. This is, unfortunately, a waste of your products and therefore a waste of money. You should be cleansing your face for around sixty seconds per cleanser. Similarly, patting in your moisturiser gently for around one minute is also recommended.

The Inside-Out Effect

Korean skincare specialists are obsessed with hydration, and there’s a reason. If you are dehydrated, your skin will give you away; your skin cells will be less plump than if you are well hydrated, leading to a sunken look. In order to maximise your skin’s health, you can’t rely on products and face massage alone to achieve this. Drinking plenty of water every single day means that you are giving your skin a chance to glow and be plump and youthful from the inside out. If you do not take care of your skin as an organ first, no amount of serum, toner, moisturiser and cleanser will make it look as good as the K-Pop stars you love. Hydration is the first step to success.

Final Thoughts

If you adore skincare and want to bump your routine to the next level, use this Korean skincare guide to achieve skin perfection. These tricks of the trade can be yours to harness, so get started tonight!

*this post contains PR samples, paid for links and/or Affiliate Links unless indicated otherwise - you can learn more on my Disclaimer page.

BEAUTY & SEOUL K-BEAUTY ADVENT CALENDAR 2020

I adore K-beauty and I have featured a lot of it here on my blog, so much so I have an entire K-Beauty product directory on my blog so that you can see which brands and products I have loved getting to know, or am not so bothered about. In recent weeks Beauty & Seoul have had teasers on their Instagram with regards to a K-Beauty Advent Calendar and well, here it is.

Here it is in all its Pink and Rose Gold glory and it is just stunning. Inside there are 25 deluxe sized samples that Maree, the lady behind the brand, has chosen and many of which are her favourites. If you have not come across Maree or Beauty & Seoul before, she has the most amazing personal story which she shares here, on her website, it is a story that should be read.

The Advent Calendar, which is on sale now, is priced at £95 but it is limited edition, so if you want it, then grab it quick because once it has gone, it has gone.  

Inside, you can expect to see brands such as Son & Park, Sioris, Klairs and Cosrx to name just a few.  If you don't want to see the contents, then don't scroll down because they are listed.  

Contents

• SON & PARK Beauty Water 60ml
• HEIMISH All Clean Green Foam 30ml
• TOUN28 Lip Balm Unscented
• PYUNKANG YUL Nutrition Cream 9ml
• IUNIK Propolis Synergy Serum 15ml
• BENTON Fermentation Eye Cream 10g
• SIORIS You Look So Young Night Cream 15ml
• KLAIRS Supple Preparation Toner 30ml
• JUMISO Hello Skin Water Splash Mask or JUMISO Helloskin Chewy Elasticity Mask
• BEAUTY & SEOUL Bamboo Cotton Reusable Pads x 2
• SHANGPREE Gold Black Pearl Eye Mask x 1 pair
• ISNTREE Hyaluronic Acid Toner 20ml
• COSRX Propolis Synergy Toner 50ml
• COSRX One Step Original Clear Pad x 2
• HANSKIN Pore Cleansing Oil [PHA] 30ml
• SHANGPREE Marine Jewel Capsule x 1
• HEIMISH Black Tea Mask 5ml
• HANSKIN Hyaluron Skin Essence 5ml
• SIORIS Time Is Running Out Mist 30ml
• THE VEGAN GLOW Mild Foam Cleanser 30ml
• PURITO Centella Green Level All In One Mild Pad x2
• ISNTREE Hyaluronic Acid Water Essence 15ml
• PYUNKANG YUL Essence Toner 30ml
• JUMISO Super Soothing Cica & Aloe Facial Serum 5ml
• HEIMISH All Clean Balm 7ml + ISNTREE Green Tea Toner 20ml

This is a great advent calendar for anyone wanting to know more about the world of K-Beauty and what they have to offer and if you have never tried any of these brands, then now is the time to do just that because they are wonderful and I am already a huge fan of Son & Park with their beauty water!

Priced at £95, you can find the Beauty & Seoul K-Beauty Advent Calendar via the website.

*this post contains PR samples and/or Affiliate Links unless indicated otherwise - you can learn more on my Disclaimer page.