9Wishes Vanishing Balm Ultimate Tone-up Cream Review

9Wishes Vanishing Balm Ultimate

Bought for: Free | SRP: $47.52 (P2,476)

From: Style Korean

We’ve lost internet connection for the past few days so I can’t really blog as much as I’ve wanted. Here I find myself drafting and editing photographs, so you’ll know that I’m still working on the background. I know babbling like this won’t make any sense because by the time you read this, connection has been fixed. Anyway, let’s start with today’s skincare review about 9 Wishes Vanishing Balm Ultimate Tone-up Cream I got from Stylekorean.com!

CLAIMS

This advance multitasking complexion enhancer brightens skin tone instantly while minimizing the appearance of fine lines and pores. An antioxidant rich formula provides exceptional hydration, leaving skin smooth and healthy all day long.

This product has Jojoba Seed Oil (has anti-inflammatory, skin repair and damage control properties), Licorice Root Extract (has antioxidants that aids discoloration and works to balance oil), Black Cohosh Root Extract (has antimicrobial and antioxidants properties, also a humectant and act to condition and protect skin) , He Shou Wu or Fo-Ti Extract (skin healing and protection), Sesame Seed Extract (antibacterial, skin repair, moisture booster, natural sunscreen and a nutrient source), Meshima Mushroom Extract (has intense antioxidant properties perfect for aging and sensitive skin), Angelica Gigas Root Extract (has significant anti-aging and skin detoxifying properties), White Mulberry Bark Extract (has antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, anti-aging and antibacterial components for fresh, youthful skin), Peony Flower Root Extract (skin-depigmenting), Mallow Extract (mild and ideal for sensitive skin and has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties), Baikal Skullcap Extract (soothing and treatment of skin problems and infections), Glutathione (whitening), Umbrella Pine Root Extract (enhances moisture retention, softens, soothes and calms skin) Allantoin (moisturizing an non-irritating), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Powder (has soothing properties). 

APPLICATION

I usually apply the cream every morning as my last step in skincare. A single pump is enough for the whole face and neck area.

PACKAGING

The product comes with a white box and the information are printed in gray/silver fonts. The tone-up cream comes in an opaque white tube with a transparent cap and a silver pump for easy dispensing of product. Overall, I love the simple yet clean-looking and very informative packaging. It displays all necessary information about the product such as ingredients, direction for use, claims and expiry date—all in crisp font style.

TEXTURE, CONSISTENCY AND EASE OF APPLICATION

Milky white in color and light in texture, this cream blends so easily on the skin without any dreaded white casts other tone-up creams impart. A little goes a long way and I also like the fact that it doesn’t cling to dry patches of the face and doesn’t look streaky at all. Despite the semi-matte finish (when used alone), it gives thorough hydration without any stickiness or discomfort. It’s a day cream that you can opt to wear alone or top off with makeup without contributing to cakiness or patchiness.

OVERALL PERFORMANCE

I would say that this is also a favorite of mine from 9Wishes. I’ve tried a few products from this independent brand (thanks to Style Korean) and all of which are highly recommended by me. This is one underrated product that I truly love and been continuously using for the past weeks. I like how it tones down redness and brightens my complexion without looking pale or ghostly. I’ve always been looking for a tone-up cream that won’t look awkward on skin with yellow undertone and the quest has finally ended. 

Despite the loads of oils and extracts mentioned above, I’m glad it didn’t irritate my skin nor break me out. I also noticed that it has Titanium Dioxide which has been used for sunblocks so despite being discreet, I’m glad to know that it’s adding up to my daily sun protection. I just hope 9Wishes could tell how strong the sun protection is. It also has Glutathione (in small concentration though) so this is great for those who would like to maintain light skin.

Using it in conjunction with other skincare products, I noticed some blemishes have lightened a bit so I know further use can make a huge difference. Long story short, I’ve found a brightening cream that suits someone like me who has oily skin and has scars to lighten.

Does 9Wishes Vanishing Balm Ultimate Tone-up Cream interest you? Let me know your thoughts down below! Happy blogging!

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9 Wishes Hydra Skin Ampule Serum Review

9Wishes Hydra Skin Ampule Serum

Bought for: Free | SRP: P1172

From: Style Korean

I promise to post reviews on the items I won from Style Korean's Try Me Event so here's a third one! I recently wrote down my thoughts on RICE WATER SHEET MASKS and ROSE CAPSULE TREATMENT ESSENCE so you can just click the links to get to the full feature. If you already did, you'll know I was attached to both that I can't even wait to tell you more about this 9Wishes Hydra Skin Ampule Serum which gains our spotlight today. Let's dive right into it, shall we?

 

CLAIMS

Infused with 25,000mg hyaluronic acid to provide intense hydration to skin. Formulated with patented “Hydra Skin” (hyaluronic acid, baobab tree seed extract, and botanical squalene) to keep your skin hydrated.

This product is especially for those with dry skin from lack of sleep. I have oily skin so at first, I was really skeptical with this product. When I finally tried it, it's not as bad and unsuitable as I imagined. I am someone who likes to do stuff and keeps myself busy and most of the time, I'm not getting the sleep my body needs. All those lack of sleep and poor eating habit took its toll on my skin. Even though I am the oily skin type, I try to use products that have the tendency to dry out the skin in moderation and make sure to keep something hydrating in my skin care routine all the time to make up. I truly believe I have this Hydra Skin Ampule Serum for a reason.

 

 

PACKAGING

It comes in a white cardboard box and has all the information you'll ever need about the product. Inside is a little frosted glass bottle with a silver cap and a dropper. I've come across with so many ampule/serums in the similar packaging but this one feels so special. Probably because it looks so simple but very neat and classy. Upon purchase, you'll see that it has a tiny sticker that seals the product and it tears to two when opened (or you can just simply peel it off in whole).

I like the overall packaging and the dropper just dispenses the right amount of product I need and I can easily control it. The only thing I probably don't like is the white rubber part wherein dirt and dust easily adhere to.

SCENT

Product does not have any distinguishable scent. It smells like nothing. LITERALLY. So if you are a fan of unscented skincare products, you'll definitely give it a go. I, personally, prefer to use stuff like this because fragrance can sometimes clog the skin or make it dry.

TEXTURE, CONSISTENCY AND EASE OF APPLICATION

This is a highly concentrated ampule and has a clear, silky texture. It's a little bit runny and is easily blended. Two drops is enough for my whole face and neck and too much isn't necessary. It feels a little bit tacky once freshly applied but it goes away after a minute or two. Patting it with your palms instead of applying in circular motions is better. If you have drier skin, I think you'll need more than two drops.

PERFORMANCE

9 Wishes Hydra Skin Ampule Serum is said to be made of 3 main active ingredients such as Hyaluronic Acid (skin hydration, mineral supply, and nourishment), Baobab Seed Extract (hydration, nourishment and skin tone improvement), and Phytosqualene (skin vitalization and skin tone improvement). Instead of using purified water, 9Wishes opted for Coconut Water which is known for a lot of skin benefits too. These ingredients works together to make sure that skin won't loss moisture and it would have that soft and glossy look to it.

I have to be honest, this product lives up to my expectations. I appreciate that 9Wishes isn't being to exaggerated with the product's claim and it keeps its promises simple. It does what it's supposed to--moisturizes the skin without being too much that it makes skin greasy by the end of the day. As mentioned in my previous blog, I like to use it together with the ROSE CAPSULE TREATMENT ESSENCE and with religious use, I noticed a big difference on the appearance of my blemishes/pimple scars. They aren't completely gone but with further use, I believe they will be much more lighter than they are.

This ampule is also able to balance and soften my skin and makes it plump and hydrated all throughout the day. This product just complement my skincare and I'm glad it paid off because my skin tone is more even and radiant now.

If you are looking for a gentle ampule/serum that will increase skin's moisture and at the same time, restores your skin's natural glow, you should never miss this. Another underrated K-beauty product that deserves to be on your vanity.

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9 Wishes Rose Capsule Treatment Essence Review

9 Wishes Rose Capsule Treatment Essence

Bought for: Free | SRP:  P2064

From: Style Korean

I've never tried so many Rose-infused products in my life but whenever I do, it works. Which is why I am so thrilled to have won this 9Wishes Rose Capsule Treatment Essence from Style Korean's Try Me Event. It's one of the 4 products I was given and honestly speaking, I'm impressed with all the products I was chosen to review. If you want to know why, please keep on reading after the short break!

CLAIMS

Enriched with rose oil and macadamia nuts oil that melts upon applying onto skin to make smoothe and moisturize skin, and calm sensitive skin. Infused with Rosa Damascena flower water to restore skin balance and provide hydration to skin.

9 Wishes Rose Capsule Treatment Essence also claims to maximize the skin's natural night time renewal process with the exclusive 9wishes's oil encapsulation technology. From the product's claim, this is intended and suggested for night time use which I strictly follow as I'd like to use the HYDRA SKIN AMPULE SERUM in the morning. Nonetheless, I still think this will be suitable for AM skincare as it's very lightweight.

 

PACKAGING

This is the very first product I have tried from 9Wishes as looking through it, it has that nice aesthetic and the overall look from the packaging to the product's texture are very pleasing to the eyes. It looks so fancy and I was like, hey, this is just exactly my type! Just like other 9Wishes products, it also has an English translation to the packaging which makes it easier to know what its benefits are. The sleek rose gold cap and glass pump bottle looks so classy and I love that about it. The glass bottle is transparent so you can see the tiny specks of rose inside.

 

The only gripe I probably have is the fact that it is housed in a non travel-friendly packaging which is a very minor issue as I prefer it to be rather photography-worthy.

 

SCENT

It smells like how Rose products do yet it doesn't smell synthetic which I appreciate. Other Rose products has the tendency to have that rather pungent scent. If you don't like floral scent, this may be too much for you.

 

TEXTURE, CONSISTENCY AND EASE OF APPLICATION

The essence has a watery consistency and is clear in color with tiny specks of rose. These aren't genuine rose petals though as it instantly melt on the skin upon contact. You won't even need a second to warm it up in order for it to finally melt on the skin. This product contains oils and extracts so I am surprised that this gets absorb so quick without any oily or greasy residue. It dries almost matte which is perfect for someone who has oily skin and large pores. Those with drier skin type may need something more moisturizing.

 

PERFORMANCE

This product contains Rose (antioxidant and anti-aging), Macadamia Oil (a very lightweight oil that moisturizes, softens and regenerates skin and also an anti-inflammatory), Aloe (known for its skin calming and soothing properties), Jasmine Oil (treats dry skin and evens out the skin tone), Licorice (meant for sensitive, reddened skin because of its skin-soothing properties), Blueberry (rich in antioxidants and Vitamins A and C to treat acne, revitalize, heals and makes skin glowing), Fig (decrease skin melanin, sebum and water loss) and Ginkgo Biloba Nut Extract (antioxidant and anti-inflammatory). With all these active ingredients, this product is an all-in-one treatment.

Despite the presence of oils, I am glad that this essence did not break me out nor clog my pores. I am always cautious with oil-based products given that they have the tendency to clog the pores and apparently, aren't suitable for all skin types. I am glad bad skin reactions in my end never happened. Those who are sensitive from using any products infused with the following ingredients  mentioned may need to be more careful. I would suggest doing a patch test first.

It felt refreshing to apply and with just a few pats, the product is already set leaving my skin feeling a little hydrated. A little because I don't find the hydration enough (and I have oily skin!!!) and it makes me reach out to HYDRA SKIN AMPULE SERUM for an added moisture. It does not sting upon contact, rather, it feels so soothing with the various plant extracts it's made with. On lazy days (which is pretty much everyday) after I cleanse and tone, I would apply about 2-3 pumps of this essence and then I'm off to bed. The next day, I would expect that my skin would look supple, soft and glowing and it never disappoints.

I also noticed that after almost four weeks of religious use, together with the serum, my blemishes and pimple scars especially on my lower cheeks have significantly lightened. It definitely contributed to the overall glow of my skin. Also, my pores are tighter and more balanced.

If you are looking for an effective skin treatment, I would really highly recommended to splurge on this product. Something that wont break me out and makes my scars lightened are big factors I consider when recommending something. This product is a bit pricey though but Style Korean makes it affordable when they go on sale so if you would really like to save more, you better wait for the sale season.

Do let me know if you have questions by sharing it down below! And oh, here's to my first post for 2019! Happy New Year! :*

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9 Wishes Rice Water Sheet Mask Review

9 Wishes Rice Water Sheet Mask

Bought for: Free | SRP: P1,857 (11 sheets)

From Style Korean

I have been on a hiatus the past few days and you're not hearing from me at all even on my social media. 2018 was already ending and I've had a lot on both my plate and mind. What happened the past few weeks were all stressing me out--I felt like I was both physically and emotionally worn out.  I couldn't even find myself to write and all I did was to introspect, retrospect and show myself some self love. I guess you can call it the darkest days of my year. The funny part was I couldn't even tell what was wrong with me or what went totally wrong in my life but it was saddening. It even makes me not look forward to 2019.

Now 2018 has officially ended, I got to pick up my broken pieces and start anew. Funny that I somehow owe my strength to Catriona Gray when she reminds me to be grateful and see situations with a silver lining. I know time will come that I'll look back to that moment in my life and think that bad days will happen so the good days will stand out. I want to share this with all of you. At some point in our lives, we need to be sad too.

Enough of my preaching and let's get back to the highlight of this post. Today, I will be reviewing some sheet masks I won from Style Korean's Try Me Event. Have you heard of the Korean brand, 9 Wishes? It used to be an alien brand to me and thanks to SK we've been introduced! The following blog posts from this on will be about my honest-to-goodness review of their products! Let's start with one--the 9 Wishes Rice Water Sheet Masks.

CLAIMS, INGREDIENTS AND DIRECTIONS FOR USE

Advanced brightening and hydration: Innovative rice water sheet mask with an indulgence of rice water, a time honored traditional Korean skin care ingredient delivers exceptional brightening and moisture in a single use, infused with rice extract, rice bran extract , saccharomyces/rice bran ferment, it replenishes the skin's moisture!

PACKAGING

The overall packaging is really neat and informative. Whatever information printed on the box are also written down on the individual packs so in case you let go of it, you will still be reminded of what these masks are for as you can easily skim through the details printed per pack. I love that they made an effort to give an English translation because I can be so lazy looking up product details online. I also appreciate that it's made of a matte, transparent plastic material that gives you an impression on how the essence would look like from the inside. Seriously, 9 wishes made an impression with their packaging.

One box contains eleven (11) sheet masks which retails to P1,857 in Style Korean. That's about *let me just do a quick...no...a long Math here...hehe...* P168 per sheet. It's a little more expensive that other Korean sheet masks but anyway, there are still a lot more pricey ones. For the quality though, I think you're paying a fair amount.

THE MASK CLOTH AND ESSENCE

I really like the quality of the cloth it's made of. It's so soft and it's just comfortable to wear. It's thin so it's breathable yet it does not tear so easily. It also fits on every corner of my face so that's plus point. My face is somewhat oval with really chubby cheeks and sometimes masks are too small or too big to go all crinkled. It's tricky to apply mask sheets on considering my shape face but these ones right here gives a perfect fit.

The essence is cloudy and almost like creamy white in color which is different from other masks I've tried before. All of them are transparent or with a little color to them but this one has really silky, almost thick essence. The silkiness makes the mask slips a little bit so you have to push it back on. It stays put after a few minutes though. I just mentioned that it looks creamier and thicker than other mask sheets I have tried but not to the point that it would make your skin oily. I'll talk more about it later.

The milky white color is probably due to the high amount of rice extract, rice bran extract and rice bran ferment and whatever rice ingredients there is lol. I don't pretend that I am good with ingredient analysis but I'm so glad to see that most, if not all beneficial and moisturizing extracts are on the higher part of the ingredient spectrum. I would say that based on the order, all preservatives are in less concentration.

PERFORMANCE

Okay, here's the overall thoughts. Whenever I use this mask, I'm thinking of all positive things I would say in this review. Now, I'm almost speechless because I honestly love these and would swear by it for the rest of my life. Let me try to talk first before I gush.

You know that I am not a very mask sheet type of person. I regularly do my skincare, basic or more rigorous but applying masks are something I find so inconvenient of a step. This changes when I had 9 Wishes Rice Water Sheet Masks. I feel so sad thinking this is probably one of the the best affordable skincare products that are underrated and it makes me want to talk more about it.

I like how it's very cooling and soothing to the skin when applied and how it just does what it claims and more. I have oily skin but that doesn't mean I don't need anything hydrating. I love the milky essence and how it gets absorbed so well without warming up my skin and makes it produce more oil. It, in fact, balances the skin and give it a life. This is more obvious upon waking up after sleeping with the essence on. It leaves skin radiant and supple.

I noticed how my skin's texture improved with regular use. I've been doing it every other day the past few weeks since I've had this resolution to be more committed to doing proper skincare. Here's the thing, since it has essence more than what you can use in one application, you can still store the remaining essence for a second session or use it as a moisturizer on days your skin needs an instant boost of moisture. This saves me from opening a new pack and it gives me a better value for money too.

Above anything else, this isn't one of those masks that leaves my skin clogged and is breaking out. I would really love to repurchase this and I just hope other local sellers would make it more accessible for us. Buying this as of now can be tricky as it seems like SK's the only retailer that ships straight to the Philippines. So what if they run out of stocks, where to now? Questions about this product? Drop me a message by utilizing the chat box below or visit my social media accounts!

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