RRAW Skincare 1% Retinol Cream (Vitamin A) Review

Hey, it's Hanna and today is Christmas so sending you all kisses and hugs! May the rest of your days be filled with prosperity and love!

This blog is actually long overdue. I hear people say, "what's new?". Okay, I'm so sorry that I keep neglecting this blog but I have actually been working on some stuff on the background. Promise. The past few weeks, I have been going through each and every one of my previous blog posts, editing and/or sending some to trash, because I don't know what has gotten into me that at some point, they were published. LOL. I found out that a lot of old posts have photos that were deleted and I have no idea why. Also found some links that are no longer working. This may take years to fix but I'm going to try. Anyway, the purpose is to make this outlet a little bit reader-friendlier.

So yeah, agenda today is to review RRAW Skincare 1% Retinol Cream. Now before I start, let me make it clear to everyone that I am no expert in skincare ingredients or just the science behind the efficacy of such product/ingredient, and everything posted is based on my own experience. I have oily, acne-prone skin and I believe that our skin conditions aren't always similar, so what works (or not work) for me may or may not work for you.

RRAW Skincare 1% Retinol Cream (Vitamin A) 50g

Retinol is almost always the answer to pretty much any skin issues: acne, fine lines, brown spots, drooping, dullness, dark circles, enlarged pores — you name it! The transformative ingredient is pure vitamin A.

Our 1% retinol cream contains retinoid acid, the active form of Vitamin A that immediately binds with receptors on our skin cells, causing them to behave younger and healthier!

What you can expect:

Normalized cell turnover for clear skin

Glowing skin

Balanced pigment production for fewer splotches

Accelerate collagen synthesis for smoother skin and tighter pores

Fading age spots

Important:

If you've never tried any type of retinol cream, serum, oil, etc, you should know that it does come with an adjustment period!

Clinically, we've seen that it takes about three weeks for skin cells to adapt to retinoic acid and begin building their tolerance, so please expect some degree of irritation at first but this is completely normal!

We suggest that for your first few retinol applications that you mix our 1% retinol cream with your current moisturizer to dilute it.

Our 1% retinol cream is UNSCENTED and NO PIGMENTS to avoid irritations. Only the good stuff!

You've probably heard a lot about the importance and efficiency of Retinols from before, you might have tried a few ones too. In my case, this is the very first Retinol product I have tried ever. I am in my mid-20s and I am more eager to discover skincare that would slow down signs of aging. This is basically the reason that pushes me to try this.

Most of the Retinol stuff I've found online were actually expensive. I chose this one from RRaw because it's more on the budget-friendly side. I got these on a BOGO deal so it appears even more affordable, as I already got two containers for the price of one (P499). The 50g amount also goes a long way since you don't need a lot for every application, considering you can dilute it with your moisturizers. I'm also quite amazed that it's actually full to the brim.

If this is your first time incorporating Retinol in your skincare, it's advised to mix with your moisturizers as this is a strong concentration. Be careful and keep the instructions in mind, so you would avoid side effects like burning and irritation. I've read some people getting terrible results, I even experienced them myself, but I guess the key is to always read and follow, become consistent and also keep in mind that there is an adjustment period of up to 3-4 weeks. Please make sure to use a high SPF during the day. This is very important especially if you are using strong ingredients in your skincare.

To be honest, I wasn't as obedient at first. I was so impatient so I only partly follow what was advised. I was thinking that my skin has survived a lot of strong skincare before when I used TO's AHA+ BHA Peeling Solution and even Maxipeel Exfoliant. The pain was bearable for me so I initially thought that using Retinol cream every night wouldn't be any different. This is a mistake I would like you to take note of and avoid as much as possible.

Since your skin is not that familiar yet with retinoids, slowly introduce your skin to it by using only once or twice a week, then gradually increasing frequency to every other night and then every night as tolerated. Mix only a small amount with your moisturizer. In my case, I would apply layers of skincare first to act as a barrier before applying the retinol cream. I find that the cream is more spreadable and would feel less irritating when doing so.

The cream is faint yellow in color from the container, fragrance-free, and dries to a semi-matte finish. Though I feel like it takes a while before it gets absorbed completely. It makes my skin warm and looks greasy after a few hours. I don't mind so long as it works.

The cream doesn't have a very consistent texture, particles with  darker yellow colors are present, so it makes me think that the ingredients aren't mixed so well. It's not a major deal though. This could be because it only has a few ingredients on the list - mostly raw, organic and natural - so it lacks the additional unnecessary ingredients that would make the product achieve a better consistency.

I've mentioned earlier that I started in the wrong foot with this product. On the first week, I applied this every night for 3 consecutive days, mixed about less than half pea-sized amount with my other skincare. I stopped applying on the fourth day, because my skin feels so itchy with redness and burning. I can see some parts of my skin on the face already peeling. I let my skin heal for the rest of the days on my first week before starting to use the product again.

This time, I decided to use the product once every two or three days depends on whether my skin can tolerate the pain or not. The pain became more tolerable this way. This was also the time I started getting new breakouts. I think it was normal as it's part of using retinols and because I usually get stuff like this whenever I am using a new product. When my skin feels a bit sore or uncomfortable, I would skip the retinol and soothe it using my regular serum and moisturizer.

I have been using the product on and off for a period of two months and the stinging sensation and itchiness don't completely go away. It's always there especially when skin is ready to peel. I don't think this is something I would want and continue to keep using since I now prefer gentler skincare that also works the same without the peeling and stinging. Having peeling skin also makes it harder to put on seamless makeup and it makes my skin looks and feels oilier than how it usually is. Although I would say that it helps with lightening acne marks a bit.

Like what I have said, I've tried gentler skincare products before, most recent once which I genuinely like are Olay Luminous Niacinamide + AHA Super Serum and Moisturiser, both of which also works for my acne marks. For the same time period, I've noticed better effects and faster results compared to when using this retinol cream. RRAW Skincare 1% Retinol Cream isn't completely bad but I guess, it's a matter of preference. If you are interested to buy one, you may shop here.

Do let me know if you have any recommendations or any tips you'd like to share to me. I really would like to know more anything about skincare!

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Luxe Organix Bright Eyes Eye Cream Review (With 80% Galactomyces, Niacinamide, Adenosine and Caffeine)

It's still my birth month and I kept asking myself if that is even a valid reason why I've been splurging for myself a lot lately. If my boyfriend would read this, I might get a scolding. No, just kidding! I don't know about you, but there are times when I think like I deserve it with or without a reason. Most especially whenever I'm feeling anxious or just simply when there's a moment I feel proud of myself.

Anyway, here's another review and it's about Luxe Organix Bright Eyes Eye Cream. I'm sure people know a lot about this brand, I mean it's practically everywhere and everyone is raving about their products. The first thing I've tried from their skincare line, as I remember, was their Bentonite Clay Indian Healing Clay Mask which I've used sometime around 2018. I've been on a hiatus in between so product testing was sort of 'limited'.

I honestly like the white and pink theme and how it comes in an easy-squeeze tube packaging. It's very travel-friendly and I could definitely bring it anywhere with ease. It's also loaded with information such as claims, ingredients, usage, caution, expiration and manufacturing dates, as well as where it's made from. Everything I need to know about it is basically printed on its box.

Ingredients

I've seen here that Luxe Organix Bright Eyes Eye Cream contains 80% Galactomyces and at first, I didn't know what that is. It sounds like something I needed to know about though, considering this is the main and first on the ingredient list.

Aside from addressing dark circles and puffiness while strengthening the moisture barrier, it also slows down signs of aging. A perfect ingredient for an eye cream indeed. It's also loaded with Niacinamide, Adenosine and Caffeine which we know already exists in a lot of skincare because they just simply work.

Claims

Expiration and Manufacturing Dates

This eye cream is very easy to apply, easy to be absorbed. It smells clean and soap-like. Actually, the consistency is soooo good too. It's soft and feels like melting butter. I might sound like I'm exaggerating, but that's how in loved I am with it. It's comparable to an expensive eye cream I had before which I forgot the name LOL. I remember that that just came as a freebie from a haul I had long, long ago. I didn't get to repurchase because the price is just too steep for me. The point is for just PHP199, it's unbelievable how Luxe Organic came up with a product like this.

I admit that I haven't tried a lot of eye cream brands, but right now, it's clear to me how I only have two eye creams that will probably forever be etched in my heart - the expensive one I had before on trial packet and this one from Luxe Organix.

Directions For Use and Caution

Aside from the consistency, I also love how it doesn't burn my eyes. I had an eye cream prior to this, which I find super thick and oily and because it doesn't get absorbed completely, it sometimes spread to my eyes unintentionally as I sleep or even blink. And then, I'd just hate how I'd tear up from the sting.

I know I would definitely buy this again when I ran out. I'm sure this would last long, probably a month, since you only need a very small amount for the under eyes. Right now, it's  just everything I've been looking for in an eye cream - gentle, hydrating and effectively keeps puffiness away. I've been using it for weeks now and it definitely helps reduce puffiness, my eyes seem more wide awake.

With regular use, I am hoping that it could also smoothen out my fine lines, and reduce darkness in my under eyes. That will take a long, long time but consistency is the key. I definitely would recommend this affordable eye cream!

I'm always open to other suggestions. Do let me know what are in your holy grails, I'd love to try them too! See you around next time!

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Rraw Skincare Tea Butter Under Eye Cream 50g Review

Hey, everyone! It's me, Hanna! How's your day going so far?

Today, I will be reviewing a product that was included in a haul I made last month. I have been using this product consistently since 24th of April and I think I'm now ready to share my experience with this eye cream from the local skincare brand, Rraw.

Claims: A butter-based cream for your under eye. Steeped with fresh green tea to help relieve dark circles and shea butter to soften and lift those eye bags up. A shot of botanical vitamins for your dark circles made with loose tea and natural butters.

Green tea helps eliminate dark circles and puffiness through increasing circulation to the skin by dilating blood vessels. It also moisturizes and tones dry skin, providing a healthy glow to the thin, sensitive skin around the eyes. Not only does green tea counter aging and provide healthy, glowing skin, it has been shown to protect the eye tissue on a deeper level.

Application: After moisturizing, apply a thin layer of Tea Butter, as this is a heavy cream, under your eyes, specifically on your eye bags. If Tea Butter feels a bit oily after application, it is normal and simply leave it to dry. The butter will simply soak into your skin allowing it to work it's magic. Store in cool area.

Ingredients : Cold Pressed Coconut Oil, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Shea Butter, Green Tea, Raw Honey

This eye cream comes in a clear, minimalist jar packaging with an aluminum twist cover. There's no plastic seal at all so you just have to trust that it's unopened. There's also barely enough information on its packaging. I don't know about you, yet surprisingly, they do not bother me that much. It must be because Rraw has been one of those famous local brands that sells organic products which turn out to be cult-favorites. They've already garnered the hearts of a lot of beauty enthusiasts, including me. Anyway, you can easily search them on their social media accounts or chat them for more product information.

I can't describe the scent exactly, but it’s subtle and smells like desert from the tub (LOL!). It doesn't smell like it has any synthetic fragrance to it, which is fine with me.

This eye cream is off-white/cream in color. It looks like candle wax untouched. It has a very soft, buttery texture. I find it a pleasure as it melts upon contact with skin. Consistency is more on the heavy/thick side so you don't need a lot for your two under-eyes. The good thing about it, is that it goes a long way. That being said, a single tub which contains 50g will surely last you a very long time. I don't think I would even finish this in 6 months if I only use it for my eyes. However, as advised, it's best to replace it after 6 months for hygiene purposes. Think about 

I don't want to throw it just like that so I know I needed to find something to use this for to maximize it's use. I figured out that I could use this cream as a cuticle moisturizer and even use it as a hand and foot cream to soften rough and patchy skin. You can also safely use it anywhere in your body that needs extra moisture since it’s organic and natural.

I have mentioned earlier that the consistency is quite thick. It would be best to use it at night since it would definitely make your concealer crease. If you are just mostly skincare though, then I guess there's nothing to worry about.

One of the things I don’t like about it, is how it feels warm on the skin. It's summer so it's quite uncomfortable. Add the fact that I have oily skin. I believe that the thickness of the cream has something to do with it. I prefer something that is hydrating yet lightweight and not congesting at the same time.

Using this product makes me a bit cautious. Being careful how much I apply is the best solution. The last time I think I overapplied, I noticed that there were buildups on my creases and under-eyes after a few hours. It looked like some butter solidified. It takes a very long time for the skin to fully absorb this product so you have to be really patient and avoid moving around before the cream has set in.

I still probably would keep using Rraw Skincare Tea Butter Under Eye Cream because the thin areas around my eyes and brow feel more hydrated than ever. I just don’t see any noticeable effects in reducing puffiness or darkness, even when it is infused with Green Tea. It make take a while so let's see.

Leaving moisturizers out of your routine could lead to more fine lines and creases anyway. But be sure to only use a thin layer of this eye cream - you don’t want to overload on moisturizer that could make your under-eyes even more baggy and wrinkles more emphasized.

Aside from that, I have never encountered any eye cream as affordable as this one from Rraw so I guess this is okay for its price.

Do let me know what your favorite products from Rraw are and I'll do my best to give them a try! Thanks for dropping by!

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Before and After Two Months of Using Olay Luminous Niacinamide + AHA Super Serum and Moisturiser

Hey, everyone! This is a blog I've been so excited to share. I actually waited and let my skin indulge in Niacinamide and AHA for two months before posting this review about the not-so-new Olay Luminous Niacinamide + AHA  Super Serum and Moisturiser.

When I first saw it in an ad, there's just a part of me that said to just give it a go. I'd say it was a perfect timing at that moment, considering I just ran out of my previous moisturizer. I'm not sure which one to review first but will just do based on order of usage.

Olay Luminous Niacinamide + AHA  Super Serum 30ml (₱1,499)

Claims: OLAY Luminous Niacinamide + AHA Super Serum, reduces stubborn spots for clearer, smoother skin. Scientifically advanced formula reduces stubborn spots, including acne marks, melasma, freckles and sun spots. AHA (Lactic Acid) acts on skin surface while Niacinamide penetrates 10 layers deep^, to effectively target root causes of spots across skin layers. Dermatologist-tested formula, does not clog pores. Fast absorbing and non-greasy. Formulated with: Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) + AHA (Lactic Acid) + Pro-Vitamin B5 + Vitamin C. Formulated without^^: Sulphates, Parabens, Phthalates, Petrolatum, Mineral oils.

Directions to Use: Use twice a day after cleansing and toning, and before moisturizer. Apply evenly on face until the serum is absorbed. Use with a UV product in the daytime.

How to use the auto-dropper: (1) Twist and turn the cap to automatically draw out the serum and; (2) Press and hold the pump to dispense on palm or fingers.

I actually wanted to tell you that I appreciate the packaging. It may look minimalist overall, but it actually has that high-end/luxury feel when you actually touch it. The bottle has a weight to it, the plastic silver cap has a great contribution in the overall aesthetic as well. The picture doesn't do much justice but the bottle has some iridescent shimmers which I think is just plain chic.

It may seem complicated to use - but all you have to do is simply twist it open and use the pump to dispense the product on clean hands.

All the information you need or want to know about the product is found on the box. They also have virtual displays which is a breath of fresh air from wordy descriptions. :D

CLAIMS

ACTIVE INGREDIENTS

DIRECTIONS TO USE

I am sure you've heard about how special Niacinamide is in skincare. It can do a lot of things when used regularly and in high concentration. Some of its benefits include pore-refining and treating stubborn spots and discolorations caused by acne and pimple breakouts and sun damage. It can also helps renew the surface of the skin for that clearer, more glowing complexion.

When combined with actives like AHA, it can be more powerful in exfoliating and treating several skin conditions. Olay Luminous has AHA in the form of Lactic Acid. I remember way back in grade school when I had skin rashes all over my body. My mother had me used a product enriched with Lactic Acid and they were completely healed in no time. From then on, I know it's an active that I could trust.

Olay Luminous Niacinamide + AHA  Super Serum is also packed with Pro Vitamin B5 (Panthenol) which enhances skin healing process and does more, and Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid), which is another powerful ingredient that targets dark spots and brightens dull complexion.

The serum has a citrus scent and actually reminds me of grapefruit. Both the serum and moisturizer have similar scents, but that of the serum's a bit stronger. It smells nice, at least for me. It has a thin, runny consistency and spreads effortlessly and evenly on the skin. It gets absorbed easily too without any tackiness. On its own, it dries to a semi-matte finish, while leaving the skin feeling and looking hydrated.

I like to use a drop of this after applying my Collagen by Watsons Collume + Peptides Booster Essence or mixing them both in 1:1 ratio. Since the serum has Vitamin C, I think they work great together as it boosts Collagen synthesis.

I'd like to do essence-serum-moisturizer combination but I just find them overly moisturizing and heavy so what I do is skip the moisturizer part during night time. So here's how my daytime routine goes: cleanser, moisturizer (Olay Luminous Niacinamide Moisturiser), and sunblock (only when necessary). And then for night time: cleanser, exfoliator or scrub (once or twice a week), essence and serum (Olay Luminous Niacinamide + AHA  Super Serum).

I know I am skipping a lot of steps and this may not be for the best, but it works for me. Using less products works better in controlling breakouts and it's a lot more comfortable too. It makes me think and feel like my skin is breathing better. I rarely go out and see the light anyway (LOL!). Later on, I'll show you pictures of the result.

Olay Luminous Niacinamide + AHA  Moisturiser 50g (₱1,499)

Claims: Olay Luminous Niacinamide + AHA Face Cream Moisturiser reduces stubborn spots for clearer, smoother skin. Scientifically advanced formula reduces stubborn spots, including acne marks, melasma, freckles and sun spots. AHA (Lactic Acid) acts on skin surface while Niacinamide penetrates 10 layers deep, to effectively target root causes of spots across skin layers. Dermatologist-tested formula, does not clog pores. Formulated with: Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) + AHA (Lactic Acid) + Pro-Vitamin B5 + Vitamin C. Formulated without: Sulphates, Parabens, Phthalates, Petrolatum, Mineral oils. 96% Noticed.

Directions to Use: Smooth evenly over cleansed face and neck, morning and night. Use with a UV product in the daytime.

Product comes in typical Olay moisturizer tubs and doesn't come with any spatula or applicator. As always, you have to make your hands are clean and well-sanitized to avoid product contamination.

The actives are similar in both products. The main difference would be the consistency. Olay Luminous Niacinamide + AHA Moisturiser has a very smooth and light consistency. For someone like me who has oily skin, this doesn't dry out completely matte. It leaves a sheen on the skin but still feels a lot lightweight compared to other moisturizers. This is definitely suitable for all skin types.

CLAIMS

DIRECTIONS, CAUTION

ACTIVE INGREDIENTS

For me, a small amount is enough to moisturize my skin for the entire day. You can still layer on sunblock and foundation without feeling heaviness or clogging. I'm using it for two months now, and still about half-full. Both products seem to be kind of steep at ₱1,499 each, but I think they're worth it.

Now, I would like to share with you my before and after photos. The left photos were taken March 17 (2nd day of using both) and then the right ones were taken May 09. Barely 2 months, but look at the difference.

Please do note that since April 24, I incorporated retinol in my skin care. It takes time getting used to retinols so I only apply a very small amount at least twice a week. I don't think my skin would drastically change in 15 days, so I'd still give the most credit to Olay Luminous Niacinamide + AHA  Super Serum and Moisturiser.

Taken March 17 vs. Taken May 09

Above photos are me in my bare skin, zero makeup, just moisturizer. You can definitely see how some of the spots, redness and discolorations were reduced, especially on the cheeks, jaw and side nose area. The texture of the skin is comparably smoother and pores seem to be a bit more refined. Above all that, my skin looks a lot healthier and plumper.

Olay claims that using these is 78% more effective in reducing spots than using niacinamide alone. I would definitely agree on this. My skin isn't completely spotless, nowhere near perfect, but I'm hoping that sometime in the next few months, the appearance of my skin will continue to improve. Patience and consistency is the key. Yes, I definitely recommend this duo and will surely repurchase.

What do you think of Olay Luminous Niacinamide + AHA  Super Serum and Moisturiser? Have you given them a try already? How did it go? I'm excited to know! If you want me to post an update by the next few months, just let me know in the comment section down below! Until next time!

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