Tatcha The Rice Polish Classic Review

 I like having something a little fancier in my skincare routine, makes me feel ike I'm taking better care of my skin and kinda acts like a treat. I'm not  likely to go get a facial- I'm too lazy. And I know the price would quickly build up. So for now, I will stick to splurging on skincare every once in a while. I ordered this from the Tatcha site-with a discount since it was my very first purchase from them. It comes in a mini try it size but I went ahead and decided to just give the larger size a go. 

Tatcha claims:

A water-activated exfoliant of nourishing Japanese rice bran and silk protein that transforms to a creamy foam for a smooth polish and healthy glow.

Our Journey to You

Women in Japan care for their skin with a beauty ritual that is as elegant as it is simple. Delicately polishing skin to a jewel-like luster is at the heart of their daily practice. For centuries, Japanese women have used the milky water from the first wash of rice to prepare a perfectly smooth complexion. The Rice Polish Collection brings this timeless secret to the modern skincare lover.

About Our Packaging

Inspired by kaizen, the philosophy of continuous improvement and learning, we are on a journey toward sustainability. The Rice Polish is packaged in a mono material jar of 30% post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastic for easy recycling. It features a new, easy-to-pour spout made with greater accessibility in mind. This push-to-open spout also better prevents water from getting into the jar, making for a more shower-friendly experience.

The Rice Polish gives your skin a new beginning through non-abrasive exfoliation and pure Japanese ingredients delivered in a cloud-like foam. Finely ground rice bran and papaya enzymes promote natural skin turnover to instantly reveal a smooth, makeup-ready canvas. The pH neutral, amino acid base formula provides effective cleansing without stripping skin of essential moisture or breaking the skin’s barrier function, leaving skin baby-soft and supple. Hadasei-3™, a trio of fermented Japanese superfoods - green tea, rice and algae - helps restore healthy-looking radiance. Ideal for combination to dry skin, The Rice Polish: Classic features silk protein to condition and nourish.

Recommended for: Combo to Dry, Dullness, Uneven Texture, Pores

I've been using this since May and I think I'm finally about at the half way mark. This stuff lasts forever. Which means at least you are getting your value for money. I only use it 1-2 time per week though, I know they recommend it as a daily exfoliant but I don't like the idea of using an exfoliating product that often, no matter how gentle it is. 

I find Tatcha an interesting brand- it's inspired by Japanese culture. And this Rice Polish is Made in Japan. The founder is Asian American. I've read some articles/opinions that mention they think this brand exploits Japanese beauty rituals. I'm not sure I know enough to have an opinion either way so it's not a brand I feel I should boycott at this point. I don't really see that the brand uses any particular imaging to market this product, but I haven't really looked too hard.

I did find This article covers more on the brand. I didn't know the brand was owned by Unilever so that's news to me. I liked thinking I was purchasing from a smaller brand but that's not so anymore. Bummer.

Back to the Rice polish. You get 60 grams- price without a sale is $68. That's pretty pricey. It has a lot to live up to when you consider the price.

The product itself is a fine powder, you add a little water and it foams up. "Wash" your face with it for 60 seconds. Wash off. That's it. 

It's a very easy product to use.

So what have I noticed? The first time I used it, I felt a noticeable difference in the softness of my skin. But I haven't noticed it since that first time using.

I feel this product helps with dullness, it really helps the skin look brighter and I feel like my skin has a noticeable glow on the days I use it. 

I do notice it helps with uneven texture. For awhile I had one really textured cheek. IDK why. I had found chemical exfoliants really help with that. And this is no different. I haven't noticed the texture coming back since I've started using chemical exfoliants regularly. But while this helps, you can get something like The Ordinary peel solution that will help with that too and it won't hurt the pocket so much. The Ordinary stuff is a very strong chemical exfoliant though and this is definitely more gentle. But there are  more gentle ones out there, I just haven't tried enough at this point. 

As for pores- I don't have too many issues with pores..so I couldn't say if it really helps or not.

I was hoping the exfoliating would help with scarring I have on my chin. Not so much. I haven't really found any of the chemical exfoliants to make a noticeable difference though. 

The packaging is nice. It uses some recycled plastic and is supposed to be recyclable. It comes in a really nice box. Mine came with a handwritten note which is always a nice touch. It's easy to pour out (the first time I poured too much so be careful). The packaging is nice and unique-ultimately it's still housed in a ton of plastic.

Is it worth the price? 

Probably now. I like it. I think it would be worth about $30 to me. I could pay that. That's still pricey. But nearly $70 is just too much especially since I don't think it does anything that a cheaper chemical exfoliant  can't. I am very curious to just try rice water. I make and soak rice and so I have Rice Water. I typically throw it out but maybe I should try it on my skin and hair? 

Ingredients: 

MICROCRYSTALLINE CELLULOSE, ORYZA SATIVA (RICE) POWDER, SODIUM LAURYL PHOSPHATE, SODIUM LAUROYL GLUTAMATE, SODIUM STEAROYL GLUTAMATE, SODIUM COCOYL GLUTAMATE, LAURYL BETAINE, SODIUM LAUROYL METHYLAMINOPROPIONATE, SACCHAROMYCES/CAMELLIA SINENSIS LEAF/CLADOSIPHON OKAMURANUS/RICE FERMENT FILTRATE*, PAPAIN, ORYZA SATIVA (RICE) BRAN EXTRACT, SERICIN, HYDROLYZED SILK, HYDROLYZED CONCHIOLIN PROTEIN, PROPANEDIOL, DEXTRIN, PHYTOSTERYL/OCTYLDODECYL LAUROYL GLUTAMATE, ETHYLHEXYLGLYCERIN, BUTYLENE GLYCOL, PHENOXYETHANOL

I will enjoy the rest- and must admit I am curious about a few of the other products in the line but it's not a must have. More of a nice to try once and then move on type of purchase. 

First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads Review

 I'm down to the last two little pads so I figured I had better review this sooner than later. I bought this is a sampler set, which I'm really into at the moment. I feel like my skin gets used to things easily so I have more fun switching around my skincare so I can trial it and move on.

FAB claims:

A daily treatment pad that contains just the right amount of Lactic and Glycolic Acids to safely and effectively exfoliate, tone, and brighten all skin types, including sensitive.

 

Facial Radiance Pads are safe for daily use by all skin types—even sensitive. Cucumber and Indian Gooseberry help tone skin while Lemon Peel and Licorice Root leave the complexion looking bright and glowing. Regular use of these pads will smooth the skin’s texture—providing the perfect canvas for flawless makeup application.

NEED TO KNOW:

Vegan, Dermatologist Tested, Gluten-Free, Non-Comedogenic, Nut-Free, Soy-Free, Nano-Free, Suitable for Sensitive Skin

FREE FROM:

Alcohol, Artificial Colorants, Artificial Fragrance, Lanolin, Mineral Oil, Parabens, Petrolatum, Phthalates, Propylene Glycol, Sulfates, Talc, Formaldehydes, Oxybenzone, Coal Tar, Hydroquinone, Triclocarbon, Ethanol

Glycolic Acid:

An Alpha Hydroxy Acid, helps skin appear brighter, exfoliates and improves texture.

Lactic Acid:

A Humectant and Alpha Hydroxy Acid that helps skin appear brighter, exfoliates and improves texture. 

Lemon Peel:

A natural extract that helps brighten skin's appearance.

Indian Gooseberry:

A natural extract that helps tone skin.

FAB Antioxidant Booster:

Helps stave off environmental aggressors with Licorice Root, Feverfew and White Tea extract

First up. let's talk price cause these are not cheap. The retail price is $36 for 60 pads. That's 60 cents a pad. If you use them every day (1x) that's $4.20 a week and $218.40. It adds up. Of course you can shop sales and knock down the price some but I like looking at the big takeaway. Which is I am not willing to pay that much for a facial pad. But I did want to give them a try. 

I bought the sampler so it was considerably cheaper. 

I think there were 28 pads in it, not sure. But around a months worth. I used them 5 to 6 times a week, once a day, pretty consistently even though I am a little wary of using acids on my skin every day. I didn't have any irritations at all, so I guess in my case it really was safe for everyday.

I didn't have any reactions.The pad itself has a smooth side and a slightly textured side. It feels like all other pads- Stridex, Clearasil, etc. And it smalls very lightly of fennel. Odd scent but I don't mind it. It doesn't linger either. 

The pads are nicely saturated, I can do my face, neck, back of my hands...etc

Then toss away. Which even thought it's a little tiny pad, I felt like I was generating so much trash. Maybe all in my head but I like making less trash and this made more than I usually do.

The results were nice glowy skin, smooths out the skin a little (nothing major), provides a little hydration, helps with acne. The are quite nice...but nothing spectacular and I felt like now towards the end of the little jar, my skin has gotten used to it and I'm not noticing any more noticeable results on a daily basis. I don't think I will miss it too much when I'm done with it.

The ingredients are actually nice. They are what made me initially want to try it out initially. I especially love that is it alchohol free. It has a few different types of acid so it is an exfoliating product.

water/aqua/eau, aloe barbadensis leaf juice, glycerin, cucumis sativus fruit extract, lactic acid, glycolic acid, leuconostoc/radish root ferment filtrate, chrysanthemum parthenium extract, sodium hydroxide, polysorbate 20, camellia sinensis leaf extract, glycyrrhiza glabra root extract, citrus nobilis fruit extract, citrus limon peel extract, hyaluronic acid, phyllanthus emblica fruit extract, edta, tetrasodium edta, phenoxyethanol, chlorphenesinwater/aqua/eau, aloe barbadensis leaf juice, glycerin, cucumis sativus fruit extract, lactic acid, glycolic acid, leuconostoc/radish root ferment filtrate, chrysanthemum parthenium extract, sodium hydroxide, polysorbate 20, camellia sinensis leaf extract, glycyrrhiza glabra root extract, citrus nobilis fruit extract, citrus limon peel extract, hyaluronic acid, phyllanthus emblica fruit extract, edta, tetrasodium edta, phenoxyethanol, chlorphenesin

Overall, it's nice. I enjoyed using it up but probably won't repurchase. I think I probably would have liked it more as a liquid toner- no pad wastage and I think the product would last longer and be more economical.

Lush Don't Look at Me Fresh Face Mask Review

 It's mask time! I got this mask free by bringing in 5 empty Lush pots.  I really love that program. In house recycling for the win. Surprisingly...through all the Lush stuff I've tried this is only my 2nd free face mask. I think I had some empty pots in the states, I will have to look when I go back. I didn't typically buy the stuff in packing before- except the face masks. 

Lush claims:

Smooth a rich layer of this vibrant blue mask over the skin and allow it to sink in for 10-15 minutes before gently removing with warm water. Pair with other toning products such as Jade Roller naked cleansing balm, Light Touch naked facial oil, or Enzymion moisturiser.

I'm pretty sure I bought this one because it's bright blue. I guess I can't resist a fun colored face mask....

This is a fresh face mask...and probably way past expiration but I keep them until I use them up unless they go off- so if it starts smelling strange or the color changes or I find something growing in it I will throw it out but otherwise, I just keep using it. 

I haven't been using it as much as I should. I get lazy. Really lazy. I've been trying to use it once a month but I've truly been slacking. I notice they give these out in a smaller size than before...but even so you still get a ton of uses and it will last forever.

I did notice that this seemed to lose oil in the fridge as soon as I brought it home. IDK if the packaging was faulty or it was particularly oily but it definitely dried out a little. I have to make sure my face is wet to really spread it on otherwise it just falls right off or doesn't spread.

It's a little chunky with exfoliating bits, so when you rinse it you can use it as a mild scrub. A 2 in one, which I like and find that to be true of most Lush masks. Helps get some dead skin off which means brighter, fresher skin.

Which seems to be it's main claim. I guess it's brightening? I think my skin has been pretty bright lately...so it doesn't really need help in that department. It might have been better to grab this when my skin is more on  the dull side (but it's not a problem I have had lately.)

I do feel like my skin looks nice afterwards- it is glowy and feels really hydrated. And of course, it feels a bit smoother. 

The scent is OK. Not a favorite. Kind of a citrusy scent. Reading the ingredients it does say grapefruit and neroli...IDK. But the scent in a face mask doesn't matter too much to me as long as it works and doesn't smell horrendous.

Ingredients:

Kaolin, Fresh Lemon Juice, Glycerin, Rice Syrup, Ground White Rice, Organic Silken Tofu, Murmur Butter, Bentone Gel, Rice Milk, Grapefruit Oil, Neroli Oil, Water, Citral, Farnesol, Geraniol, Limonene, Linalool, Perfume, Colour 

Overall, I like it. It's not life changing. I would definitely pick it up again if I had 5 empty pots. But more than likely I would grab something new before I picked it up again. 

Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Sleeping Mask Review

 No one told me how hilarious The Jefferson's were....but for the past week I have been watching episodes and cracking up. I never watched it as a kid, it came on everyday after Good Times and I remember listening to the song and then changing the channel. In those days I only got about an hour of TV and I think I used my remaning time on another show. Anyway, I couldn't believe how much I kept thinking about Martin when watching George. Martin Lawrence must have washed a lot of Jeffersons. For real. So far my favorite episode was Rich Man's Disease. That one had me screaming laughing. Highly recommend if you need something to watch.

But back to this mask.

Glow Recipe claims:

The Watermelon Glow Sleeping Mask is a luxuriously bouncy, breathable sleeping mask that smoothes and refines skin, overnight. This pillow-proof formula acts as a radiance-boosting hyaluronic acid face mask, formulated with soothing, amino-acid rich Watermelon Extract, hydrating Hyaluronic Acid, and pore refining AHAs that work while you sleep to gently exfoliate and clarify. It'll quickly become your go-to face mask for glowing skin.

In an independent consumer testing panel of 32 women age 21 to 73:

- 90% of women agreed their skin felt more hydrated immediately after applying

After 4 weeks of use:

- 96% of women agreed their skin appeared radiant and brighter

- 92% of women agreed their skin appeared to be glowing

- 96% of women agreed their skin felt more bouncy

*Since our Watermelon Mask is made with real watermelon, you may find real fruit chunks in the formula.

Key Ingredients 

Watermelon

Amino-rich watermelon extract intensely hydrates, soothes and fights free radical damage to ward off fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots.

Hyaluronic Acid

Instantly quench thirsty skin with hyaluronic acid. This holy grail hydrator retains 1000 times its weight in water to breathe new life to dry, rough skin. 

AHA

Gentle chemical exfoliators that buff away dead skin, smooth fine lines, soften texture, diminish dark spots, and clarify pores. In other words, they help your skin live its best life.

Pumpkin Extract

Rich in antioxidants that both repair skin and defend it against damage-causing free radicals.

Free Of: 

Parabens, Mineral Oil, Sulfates, Phthalates, Synthetic Dyes. Vegan. Leaping Bunny Certified Cruelty-free.

Made in Korea

This was a gift from my sister. She asked what I wanted for my birthday and I really wanted this mask and she got it for me 😁

I had no idea about this brand until I saw this vid of them making it on youtube. 

I love watermelon and that they actually use real watermelon was a big selling point for me. It also kind of reminded me of a Lush video and ....if you can't tell from the constant Lush reviews, I love Lush.

So we'll start with the packaging. It comes in a box with a really nice glass jar and a plastic spatula that you are supposed to use to stir the mask around before using. I love the glass jar, I am going to keep it and re-use it forever! I really like that the brand uses glass instead of plastic.

The actual mask itself is 2.7 ounce of a jelly type mask formula. It smells like a cross between real watermelon and almost a jolly rancher candy scent. And it also smells like alcohol. I thought I had looked at the ingredient list before hand..and I did- but somehow missed the alcohol. It's not my favorite ingredient...but I'll give this one a pass because of the other goodies it contains. 

So..back to the texture. A little seems to go a long way. I don't pile this on my face although it says to use a generous amount. When I first started using it, it did give me the odd white head. After my skin got used to it, no more whiteheads. 

I do like using it overnight, but because it dries down and looks quite a bit peel-y on the skin, I have flipped out a little bit seeing it on my skin in the middle of the night on a bathroom trip  until I realized it was just the mask.

It is mainly a hydrating mask. But I don't think it's that hydrating. In fact, before my skin became accustomed to it, it was quite drying. I would just make sure to hydrate my skin really well afterwards. I tended to use this Shea Butter that my friend gifted me and that whips my skin back into shape😀 I've been using it so much my skin doesn't even dry out as long as I'm consistent. 

Other than that, the only noticeable difference is my skin is a little bit smoother. That's probably due to the AHA in it. It's on the more gentle side for a chemical exfoliant so I think it's a good beginner type of exfoliant. 

I'm a little torn on the ingredients list- I'm not a fan of any type of "cones" in my skincare and there is the alcohol BUT it does have a lotta watermelon and all kinds of fun extracts.

Ingredients:

Aqua/Water/Eau, Sodium Hyaluronate, Glycerin, Caulerpa Lentillifera (Seaweed) Extract, Simethicone, Citrullus Lanatus (Watermelon) Fruit, Silica, Propanediol, Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, Cucurbita Pepo (Pumpkin) Fruit Extract, Punica Granatum (Pomegranate) Fruit Extract, Musa Sapientum (Banana) Fruit Extract, Paeonia Suffruticosa (Peony) Root Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Brassica Oleracea Capitata (Cabbage) Leaf Extract, Ipomoea Batatas (Sweet Potato) Root Extract, Scutellaria Baicalensis (Skullcap) Root Extract, Betaine, Beta-Glucan, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Xanthan Gum, Alcohol, Fragrance/Parfum.

Overall, I like it and I'm so happy I was able to try it out. It was a perfect gift, but I'm not sure if it's worth the price or if I saw results that justify the price. I would try other things from the line though, I really want to try out the Watermelon mist among some of the other stuff they make.

Lush Beauty Sleep Face and Body Mask Review

 It's been years since I've used a Lush Mask. I was really working on trying them all out...but Lush is kinda far from me no matter where I have lived and sometimes I get too lazy to drive. And I realized I was wasting money trying to pay for them...it's best to get them for free when you bring back 5 of the empty qualifying Lush pots.So far I have one. But I was lucky enough to get it completely free in my last order. I'm pretty sure it was because it was about to expire but I'm grateful for it. Who doesn't love free stuff? Also...I usually use the Face Masks past expiration as long as the smell and look the same. I just chucked this empty Lush tub in the fridge and so far so good.

Lush claims:

A rich and relaxing mask for dry and sensitive skin packed with cleansers, moisturizers, fruit juices and more for a truly luxurious skincare experience.

Inspired by the quest for a good night’s sleep, Beauty Sleep is just the way to relax, restore and look radiant for tomorrow. This decadent mask is composed of calming lemon verbena and valerian root extracted in honey, soothing fresh coconut and a hydrating mullein leaf and linseed decoction. And, if this mask wasn't dreamy enough, we've added a dollop of Lush’s most exquisite moisturizer, Gorgeous. Wheatgerm oil and the cold-pressed oils of avocado and evening primrose nourish and moisturize, while neroli oil and myrrh resinoid keep skin feeling beautiful and bouncy. Freshly-squeezed orange, lemon and pineapple juices compliment the mask's polishing effect by offering smoothness and radiance. Fake a little shut eye with this extra-indulgent approach to self-care.

100% Recycled Pot/Contains Glitter

This only came out a few months ago...and I planned to try it. Especially because it's purple and sounds like it would make a really nice relaxing treat before bedtime. I'm all about relaxing and unwinding. 

It's made specially for dry/sensitive skin. Neither of which I have but I don't think that's a dealbreaker and you never know until you actually try something whether it will work for you.

Now...let's start with the scent. 

It's smells kind of odd. And like nothing I have ever smelled before. I wouldn't say it's a favorite scent but it doesn't bother me and for some reason..it's really relaxing and calming. It's like magic. Which even though I don't love the scent...I kinda love the scent if that makes sense. I have a hard time sleeping/falling asleep and I really and truly believe this helps.

Its main claims are that it's hydrating...which it it. You can tell it has honey/humectant in it. It really restores moisture and is like a big drink for your skin.Supposedly it has a little of their extremely pricy Gorgeous moisturizer in it, which I read somewhere was formulated especially for Princess Diana. Pretty Cool...

The second claim is radiance. And I would have to agree...my skin does look more radiant and glowy the next day.

It is chock full of goodies that are amazing for your skin. You can definitely feel a lot of the ingredients in the actual mask, I think the Adzuki beans are meant to be the main exfoliant. It's easy to rinse off and also you can rub it around for a bit of gentle exfoliation which makes it almost a two in one.

Ingredients:

Lemon Verbena and Valerian Root Extracted in Honey (Aloysia citrodora; Valeriana officinalis), Glycerine, Mullein Leaf and Linseed Decoction (Verbascum thapsus; Linum usitatissimum), Kaolin, Talc, Ground Organic Aduki Beans (Phaseolus angularis), Orange Blossom Honey Water, Extra Virgin Coconut Oil (Cocos nucifera), Bentone Gel (Hectorite), Orange Flower Absolute (Citrus aurantium amara), Neroli Oil (Citrus aurantium amara), Myrrh Resinoid (Commiphora myrrha), Lavender Oil (Lavandula angustifolia), Benzoin Resinoid (Styrax tonkinensis pierre), Tonka Absolute (Dipteryx odorata), Ylang Ylang Oil (Cananga odorata), Organic Jojoba Oil (Simmondsia chinensis), Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil (Olea europaea), Fresh Coconut (Cocos nucifera), Illipe Butter (Shorea stenoptera), Organic Avocado Oil (Persea gratissima), Organic Cold Pressed Evening Primrose Oil (Oenothera biennis), Evening Primrose Seeds (Oenothera biennis), Wheatgerm Oil (Triticum vulgare), Fresh Lemon Juice (Citrus limonum), Fresh Pineapple Juice (Ananas sativus), Fresh Orange Juice (Citrus aurantium dulcis), Organic Cold Pressed Grapeseed Oil (Vitis vinifera), Water (Aqua), Titanium Dioxide, Synthetic Fluorphlogopite, Tin Oxide, Stearic Acid, Triethanolamine, Cetearyl Alcohol, *Benzyl Benzoate, *Benzyl Cinnamate, *Cinnamal, *Coumarin, *Farnesol, *Geraniol, Hydroxycitronellal, *Limonene, *Linalool, Perfume, Colour 17200, Colour 42090

Overall...I actually think it's a favorite. It's a really nice mask and one that I could see myself getting again.

The Face Shop Shea Butter Sheet Mask Review

 Finally, the last sheet mask in my stash! And of the ones I have tried this one is definitely in my top 3. Along with the Lemon and the Ginseng sheet mask, as they seem to have made the most difference in my skin. I still wouldn't repurchase since I'm a little over single use products at the moment, but if you aren't, those would be my recommendations. 

The Face Shop claims:

The sheet mask with sheer butter extract deeply nourishes skin for firming effect

My favorite...Shea Butter. At first I thought this mask would be a waste of time. If you are looking for the benefits of Shea Butter- just apply Shea Butter! But, actually I did kinda like this mask. 

First off, it smells like the Dove Shea Butter soap. That's supposed to be a vanilla scent but I don't necessarily think so. It's a hard scent to describe, it just smells like all the other drugstore Shea Butter stuff...with a creamy, comforting scent. It's not strong or overpowering though. 

The texture was a little different than the other serums. It was kinda creamy and thicker. And there seemed to be ton in the little packet. I put the rest on my arms and neck. 

As for the after affects, I looked really greasy afterwards. It took a few hours for it to fully absorb in my skin and once it did, I had a nice little glow and hydrated but slightly sticky skin. I would recommend it as a night time mask. Or one to use when you don't have to leave the house. 

The reason I liked this one so much is because I had a little spot that was kinda painful and had been trying to rear it's little head. This mask calmed it down, made the swelling go down and the pain go away. And it worked almost immediately. Yay, Shea Butter extract.

The ingredients are...eh. I'm not a fan of glycols and cones in skincare products. The only great thing about it was the Shea Butter extract. And the Sodium Hyaluronate. But now that I know I like the Shea Butter extract I really should look for a more natural skincare product that has the extract. Any recommendations? 

Ingredients:

Water, Glycerin, Dipropylen Glycol, Cyclopentasiloxane, Pentaerythrityl Tetraethylhexaneoate, Shea Butter extract, 1-2 Hexanediol, Dimethicone, Panthenol, Allantoin, Butylene Glycol, Panthenol, Allantoin, Butylene Glycol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Methyl Glucose, Sesquistearate, Acrylates, c10-30 Alkyl Acrylates Cross Polymer, Carbomer, Tromethamine, Trisodium EDTA,  Xanthum Gum, Ethylhexyglycerin, Parfum

It definitely was a top three of all the Face Shop Masks I've tried. But still I'm not compelled to purchase again. 

The Face Shop Red Ginseng Firming Sheet Mask Review

 

After this mask, I have one more sheet mask review and then I can move on to something new! Of all the sheet masks I bought, this one was the most intriguing. Red Ginseng seems to be miracle skincare ingredient. Ginseng is all around healthy for you. I had a tea with it (probably not red ginseng) but unfortunately it gave me really bad heart palpitations. I had to be really careful drinking it. But back to skincare. Ginseng is said to boost circulation, promoting collagen development, protect the skin from free radicals and environmental damage, have anti-aging properties, brighten the complexion, and banish hyperpigmentation. Its use traces back to 1500's.

The Face Shop claims:

The firming sheet mask with red ginseng extract deeply nourishes skin to make it firmer.

The very first thing I noticed was the color. It has a reddish brownish tint that none of the other masks did. And there is no color added.

The second thing I noticed was the scent. It has the very best earthy/fresh dirt smell. I love, love, love the scent. I want a shower gel or soap in the scent. I wish it were stronger and lasted longer. I think of all the masks, this scent of this was my favorite. 

It didn't fit well. I find most of the masks in this line really just don't fit my face. But I make it work. 

I left it on until it dried out and then rubbed the rest of the essence into my skin.There was a lot!

It was very sticky and heavy looking and really did take hours to sink into my skin. After it finally did, my skin was nice and glowy. A bit less textured (I think). But I can't speak to firmness. I think you would have to use the mask regularly to really judge if it's actually firming your skin.

It's the same old story as with all the other masks, glycols, cones and other unrecognizable ingredients. This one was slightly different in that it didn't have Alcohol in it. The ingredients aren't really the best and sheet masks are generally one use products, which isn't really that great for our environment. 

Ingredients:

Water, Glycerin Dipropylene Glycol, Cyclopentasiloxane, Pentaerthrityl Tetraethylhexanoate, Panax Ginseng Rott Extract, 1-2 Hexanediolm Dimethicone, Panthenol, Allantoin, Butylene Glycol Sodium Hyaluronate, Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate, Acrylates/c10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Carbomer Trmethanime Tri Sodium EDTA, Xanthum Gum, Ethylhexyglycerin, Cocoa Seed Extract, Parfum, Limonene, Linalool

Overall, I did like it. I don't know if it actually had a lasting effect, or even a noticeable one. But in my head that red ginseng extract is something special. I do want to try a serum with better featuring it as a ingredient and see how I like it.

The Face Shop Pomegranate Mask Review

 Pomegranate is not one of those skincare/bath and body ingredients that you see a lot..but you do see it more than not. I've had a few things over the years, a few lip balms, some Midnight Pomegranate stuff from Bath and Body Works (yuck) , and a shower gel from Softsoap. When I think of Pomegranates, I think anti-aging just because of all the anti-oxidants in them and how healthy they are. Probably better to eat them then apply to the skin but I like to try almost any skincare ingredient once.

The Face Shop claims:

The firming and revitalizing sheet mask with pomegranate extract restores skin's elasticity and vitality.

Unlike all the other masks, I didn't put this one in the fridge. I just used it at room temperature. I was feeling too lazy to put it in the fridge.

The scent was lightly floral and very forgettable. I thought it would have a dark red berry scent so I was a little thrown off with the scent, but it wasn't strong or noticeable after a few moments with it on.

Its main claim to fame is that it is supposed to be firming. Luckily I haven't lost firmness in my face so I can't really speak to that. I'll just think of it as a preventative mask, one time mask.

It didn't make my skin greasy..it just gave me a nice glow. And that's it.

As I've tried the skincare sheet  masks, I've found I'm not a fan of the fact that they create so much waste for a one time use product. Probably not the best for the environment which is why after I use the last two in my stash I probably won't be repurchasing- maybe if there was a more biodegradable option. 

The ingredients aren't my favorite. There are glycols, alchohols, etc. 

Ingredients:

Water, Butylene Glycol Glycerine, Alchohol Denat, Pomegranate Fruit Extract, 1,2 Hexanediol, Trehalose, Propanediol, Panthenol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Dimenthicone, Allantoin, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, PEG 60, Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Xanthum Gum, Carbomer, Ethyhexylglycerin, Potassium Hydroxide, Pehnoxyethanol, Disodium EDTA, Parfum 

Overall, cool to try but not something that I would buy again. 

The Face Shop Lotus Sheet Mask Review

I'm kind of over sheet masks..but I still have three in my drawer I am determined to use and review. Then I will probably be done with face masks for quite a while. Of the batch that I have tried, the Lemon one was definitely the best. It might have been my fault because I picked up so many hydrating masks, but my face has been super hydrated this winter, so these haven't really been that great for my skin. Shea Butter for the win! 

The Face Shop claims:

The hydrating, purifying sheet mask with lotus flower induces skin with moisture, leaving it feeling clean.

This would make the second Lotus thing I have tried. I had the Lotus Flower Soap from Lush. It's supposed to be anti-aging, brightening, soothing, anti-inflammatory, balancing and purifying. I want that for my skin so I thought I would give it a whirl

Mostly this mask just claims to be hydrating. Since I don't have dry skin, I can't say it did much, if anything for me. 

They don't fit my face that well, but this one did fit better than some of them I've tried. It's odd that they  fit differently...since it's the same brand and the same line.

But it smelled nice. You smell it when you first put it on, but it's very light so I didn't notice it through out the duration of the time I had it on. It had a sweet floral scent. Kinda like Sweet Pea from Bath and Body Works with a hint of alcohol.

Like the others, it was made in Korea.

And the ingredients were nothing special. It's full of alcohols, glycols, etc. There are a few good things but  I don't think they make that much of a difference. 

Ingredients:

Water, Glycerin, Propanediol, Glycereth 26, Alchohol, Denat, Lotus Flower Extract, 1,2 Heanediol, Panthenol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Lecithin, Shea Butter, Betaine, Dimethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Carbomer, Xanthum Gum, Disodium EDTA, Peg 60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Potassium Hydroxide, Ethylhexylglycerin, Parfum, Fragrance

Overall, it just didn't do anything for my skin. Next up, I have the Pomegranate one! 

The Face Shop Brightening Lemon Sheet Mask Review

 

Today makes the first day of my "vacation". I have the next ten days off. I decided to take my birthday week off. So I'm pretty excited about it.  I started off my week with a self pamper mask session. I've been doing one every week. I don't think I've ever had a straight up lemon mask..but I do like lemon so I was kinda excited to try it. 

The Face Shop claims:

The brightening sheet mask with lemon extract brightness dull skin to create a radiant look

What To Love

CLAIM TO FAME: An instant skin treat that hydrates and brightens for a flawless look

FAST FACTS: Lemon-infused water-type essence helps control melanin to even out skin tone; naturally lightens for a more radiant look; rich in vitamin and minerals found in plant and fruit extracts; air-pocket pulp mask sheet holds nutrient-rich essence for longer-lasting moisturization; high quality soft sheet provides good fit and adhesion; mild enough for daily use

PERFECT FOR: Dull, spotty, blotchy, blemished skin

I wouldn't say my skin was dull...but I do like a little brightening treatment every now and then. The first thing I noticed was the scent. When I took it out it smelled like fresh cut lemon. Another sniff and it smelled like lemon cleaning product. Which I wasn't a fan of  but it didn't really linger around and after a few moments I couldn't even smell it. 

In applying it, you can really tell these don't fit my face. But I made it work. I let it sit until it mostly dried up and rubbed the rest of the serum on my body. 

Immediately after, my skin did look more radiant and bright. I fell asleep. Woke up looking greasy. Gave my face a good rinse and went about my day. And my skin has had a brighter, glow-y look to it all day. Finally a mask from The Face Shop that actually did something for my skin! 

This one was made in Korea. I noticed the Aloe one was make in China so I was checking the labels on all the other ones I bought out of curiosity. 

As with all of them..the ingredients leave something to be desired. It has alcohols,glycols, cones and a bunch of other things I don't really like in my skincare. 

Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Propanediol, Glycereth 26, Alchohol Denat, Lemon Fruit Extract, 12 Hexanediol, Panthenol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydrogenated lecithin, Lecithin, Shea Butter, Betaine, Dimethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Carbomer, Xanthum Gum, Disodium EDTA, Peg 60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Potassium Hydroxide, Butylene Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Fragrance. 

Overall, for 99 cents not a bad one to use if you want to brighten your skin. For me, when I need that bright glowy look I like to use Sea Buckthorn oil. It does the same thing..and is cheaper per application. 

The Face Shop Green Tea Hydrating Sheet Mask Review

 Green Tea has been a popular skin care ingredient for a few years now..but still I haven't tried that many things with it. Maybe a moisturizer and a few soaps. It is really good for the skin and really easy to make a DIY mask with tea and clay..I need to give that a try actually. But last night was not a DIY night. It was a grab a mask out the refrigerator, apply and relax kinda night. Yesterday was an exciting day after all! 

The Face Shop claims:

A mask sheet that is drenched in clear serum and helps calm and soothe irritated skin. Enriched with green tea extracts, the all new Real Nature Green Tea Face Mask by Face Shop is here to transform your skin! The rich extracts clear and revitalize skin that is exposed to environmental stressors and purifies it instantly. So ladies, this is a mask we absolutely swear by. Are you ready for gorgeous skin days? We think so!

• Refreshes and revitalizes irritated skin 
• Clarifies and smoothes skin instantly 
• Enriched with green tea extract known for its purifying properties 
• Natural squeeze-and-extraction process 
• Contains one single-use face mask 
• Has smooth oil-type essence and natural ingredients

The first thing I noticed when grabbing it out of the package was that it looks like it was soaking in actual green tea. It had a "tea" look to it. Which was pretty cool. 

Next thing I noticed was the light, floral-fresh scent. They do a really good job with fragrancing  these masks, they are never overpowering and just kind of blend into the experience. 

So like always I applied from the refrigerator and let it sit until it dried. Then I use the rest of the "juice" on my neck, hands, etc. It does have a decent amount of leftover serum.

It is meant to be hydrating...but I don't have very dry skin. I do think the last mask I tried was more hydrating. The texture of this is sticky. Wouldn't use this any other way than before bed due to the texture and stickiness. Other than that I can't say I really noticed much of a difference. 

Now looking at my skin a day later...still no difference.I just don't find these do a whole lot for my skin but not sure I can complain too much since it was about .99 cents.

I did check where it was made since the Aloe mask was made in China. The Green Tea Mask is made in Korea.

It has some ingredients...and some that get the side eye. But I think that's just the nature of sheet masks.

Ingredients:Water/Eau, Glycerin, Propanediol, Glycereth 26, Alchohol Denat,  Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, 1,2-Hexanediol, Panthenol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Lecithin, Shea Butter, Betaine, Dimethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Carbomer, Xanthan Gum Disodium Edta, Peg-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil,Potassium Hydroxide,Ethylhexyl Glycerin, Fragrance

There are plain one-ingredient oils that have done more for my skin and are way cheaper per application than this mask. Not something I would recommend or buy again! 

The Face Shop Calendula Sheet Mask Review

Calendula is a popular ingredient in skincare. It's one of the best when it comes to soothing irritated, inflamed skin. It's been in quite a few of the things I've tried over the years but never really front and center. So here we go...

The Face Shop claims:

A mask sheet that removes dead skin cells and leaves skin smooth and soft. Enriched with calendula extracts, the all new Real Nature Calendula Face Mask by Face Shop is here to transform your skin! The rich extracts relax and soothe exposed, rough and sensitive skin instantly and leaves it feeling deeply nourished. So ladies, this is a mask we absolutely swear by. Are you ready for gorgeous skin days? We think so!

Features:

• Relaxes exposed, rough and sensitive skin 
• Smoothes dry and dead cell surfaces 
• Enriched with calendula extract known for its calming and soothing properties 
• Natural squeeze-and-extraction process 
• Contains one single-use face mask 
• Has smooth oil-type essence and natural ingredients

Of the three masks I've tried so far, this one definitely has my favorite scent. It has this soft, powdery scent. It kinda reminds me of a Tea Tree sheet mask I tried a couple years ago. 

As always I put mine in the refrigerator to make it super refreshing and I keep it on until it dried out. I didn't see much of a difference in my skin. But it didn't cause any breakouts. Maybe my skin was a little more hydrated? But I haven't had any dry skin on my face this winter.

I think it would be OK for skin that needs a bit of a moisture boost (If I ignore the ingredients). Instead of massaging the rest of the serum into my skin, I just put it on my heels.. And it did help very temporarily.

The texture is a little bit sticky. And there is a lot of serum. You could probably use it over a few days but I like to use it up in one day.

I did check where this one was made as the last one I had (Aloe) was made in China. This one was made in Korea. 

As far as ingredients..I'm not thrilled with them. It has cones, glycols, EDTA's, alchohols etc in large amounts. I like that is has Calendula but wish it was higher on the ingredient list. 

Ingredients:

WATER/EAU · BUTYLENE GLYCOL · GLYCERIN · ALCOHOL DENAT. · CALENDULA OFFICINALIS FLOWER EXTRACT · 1,2-HEXANEDIOL · TREHALOSE · PROPANEDIOL · PANTHENOL · SODIUM HYALURONATE · DIMETHICONE · ALLANTOIN · HYDROGENATED LECITHIN · CAPRYLIC/CAPRIC TRIGLYCERIDE · PEG-60 HYDROGENATED CASTOR OIL · XANTHAN GUM · CARBOMER · ETHYLHEXYLGLYCERIN · POTASSIUM HYDROXIDE · DISODIUM EDTA · PARFUM/ FRAGRANCE

Overall, it was nice to feel like I was pampering myself, especially at the cost of 99 cents. It might have done more for my skin if it was dehydrated or dry- at least temporarily. I did love the scent. But it's not something I would go out of my way to purchase again. It's just OK.