Derma ProMedics Anti-Wrinkle Formula -- Gem 2 of Wrinkle Care

The Anti-Wrinkle Formula by Derma ProMedics is gem number 2 of the Derma ProMedics "gem products" I've been ravin' about.

Derma ProMedics, a "state of the art" Anti-Wrinkle Formula is an "anti-aging, micro sculpting wrinkle reducer" that is said to be "better than botox" on the website for ordering.

 "Derma Promedics is a scientifically tested serum that actually works. It comprises of state of the art firming ingredients and a perfect mix of vital moisturizers along with vitamins. Once you apply Derma Promedics, the skin is well nourished and feels pampered. The effects of Derma Promedics that work on your skin are:

• Derma Promedics is purely responsible for diminishing wrinkle density by 37%
• Derma Promedics manages to reduce the Wrinkle volume by 18.5%
• Last but not the least Derma Promedics reduces surface wrinkles by 44.9%
•  

These statistics are scientifically researched and tested. This makes Derma Promedics an Anti Aging Micro Sculpting Wrinkle reducing serum that helps to fight the signs of aging, thus giving you a young looking smooth skin."

How Does it Work?

Anti-Aging Serum works by actually pulling skin tighter to smooth out its surface, creating an appearance of smoother, less aged skin.

The Matrixyl™3000 ingredient in the Anti-Wrinkle Serum has been shown to reduce deep wrinkles, add more moisture to the skin, and keep it there longer (Clinical Studies.)


The claims of this product were so large that I didn't know whether to just send my entire wallet to the Derma ProMedics or be wary, so of course I opted for sampling first (thankfully the company was kind enough to allow me, and that alone, in my experience, tends to be a good sign about a company's product.)

Anyways, just take a look at the products' awesome properties and see what I mean. Sounds like some incredibly powerful stuff!

The folks at Derma ProMedics were so incredibly kind that they allowed me to try both the Eye Renewal product (recently reviewed) and their Anti-Wrinkle Formula I'll be reviewing today. 

My Goals (as far as using this and any anti-aging product goes)

To give ya'll an idea of what my goals are and what my skin type is, what I'm hoping to accomplish by using the Derma ProMedics products, I'll give you some brief detail:

1. Prevent wrinkles, improve the minor aging signs I do have. I'm 24, and I do have minor lines forming around my mouth, also known as "smile lines."

It's been my goal to work towards combating signs of aging since I turned about 19. Wanting to use prevention early, I began trying many different anti-agers and as always, continue to moisturize religiously. I've always had dry skin issues, so moisturizing is a must, and I figure in the long run, it'll help towards my goal of preventing aging signs.
  
I prefer a product that will do both -- take care of my skin by moisturizing it as well as work towards healthy skin while also preventing aging signs as much as possible. I feel confident that Derma Pro Medics' Anti-Wrinkle Formula/Serum is my best bet for anti-aging and for reducing what I do have.

2. Remove blemish or dark spots, which are on my skin from previous breakouts, and occur frequently. 

3. Lighten/improve the dark, sunken circles that have appeared underneath my eyes and never went away, no matter how much sleep, vitamins, minerals and herbs I take.

Something else I hope I might accomplish by using the Derma ProMedics products is just maybe reducing the minor scarring I've obtained on my cheeks from breakouts. Some ingredients in the Anti-Wrinkle formula have been touted by some as useful for this.

My skin type:
Combination skin -- dry "flakes" are common around my cheeks and nose while the middle of my forehead has excess shine/oil most of the time. Breakouts occur more frequently than I'd like, leaving behind blemish marks.  Minor, but noticeable scarring on cheeks from previous breakouts.

What Are The Claims, What's This Stuff Supposed to Do?

• Derma ProMedics is responsible for reducing signs of aging that appear on the face. It reduces wrinkles and visible fine lines. 45% less wrinkles in 2 months.

• It keeps the skin hydrated and moisturized. Therefore the skin feels soft and flexible.

• Derma Promedics is smooth to apply and does not break or flake like other products.

• The state of the art firming ingredients that are present in Derma Perfect ensures to keep the skin light and tight.

• Derma Promedics boosts collagen in the body right from the cellular level that helps to fight the signs of aging.

• This is considered to be 100% safer option than Botox.
• Reduces eye puffiness
• Lightens dark circles
• Revitalizes the enlarged pores
• Keeps the skin refreshed and rejuvenated at all times

How to Use Derma ProMedics' Anti Wrinkle Formula:
It's recommended that you apply it to freshly cleansed skin, then simply apply the clear, thin gel-like serum to "affected areas." I tend to apply it on the areas where wrinkles commonly form -- around the mouth, eyes and forehead. However, I also apply a dab to any blemish or acne since some of the ingredients do double as an acne fighter. In short, they help dry out the pimples/blemish, getting rid of them sooner.

 My Results with Anti Wrinkle Formula 

Here are a couple of "before" photos so we can track my progress and you guys can follow along. Believe me, it wasn't easy posting photos of me with zero makeup (aside from mascara. I actually cleaned everything off, leaving the mascara just for these pictures!). You may notice the bags or dark eye circles. Notice the smile lines. And let's see if over the next month of using these Derma Promedics, we can't just diminish those a bit!

In this one, you can really see the under-eye circles and darkness as well as my smile lines.

 

After 1 month from the start period, I'll be taking "after" pictures and posting them for you guys to see for yourself if I've gotten any progress! Just promise not to judge! ;)

I'd like to make note of a few things I can attest to, regarding the claims made about this Derma ProMedics product:

1. Serum doesn't leave noticeable residue behind on my skin.

2. It's true that there isn't any "breaking or flaking," and some skin-tightening products have left me with a film over my skin that had visible cracks in it. The Derma ProMedics does seem to absorb really well into my skin, without making my skin feel tight like many tightening products do.

3. It doesn't interfere negatively with my combination skin -- no negative results such as drying out my skin or causing oiliness, even in the areas that are typically dry/oily.

4. Formula goes on smooth and weightless, and does not interfere with makeup  application. I can apply before using makeup (including heavy foundations) and it gives me no issues.


I often notice a slight sensation on my skin that's subtle it's like a "tingle" or something between a subtle tingle and a light stinging sensation that dissipates as it dries. Hours after applying, I notice a tight feeling in the area I applied. I typically use it before bed, and sometimes when I wake up, I'll notice that subtle tightening sensation on the areas around my mouth and forehead, where I applied the serum. So that is interesting and could be a hint of the serum working its magic.

As for my results, I have definitely noticed that this serum removes blemishes and helps pimples diminish sooner, also lightens the dark spots left over from previous blemishes. It took about 1 week of use before I got these results, so I'd say with continuous use, it could definitely do a job on wrinkles and lines, it'll just take time to do the trick and show results. I'll update as I go.

Disclaimer: I am not a specialist, expert, professional or doctor of any kind. Content on this blog is not intended to be taken as medical advice, diagnosis, treatment or advice of any sort. I'm simply sharing information about my own experiences and results from use of a product or activity in hopes of providing useful information to readers, not to be taken as a patient/medical adviser relationship. I am not responsible for what readers choose to do after viewing the content here. Furthermore, I do not hold an "exceptional" or other special relationship with any company mentioned on this site. I'm simply a consumer who worked with the company on a review that is in compliance with FTC's guidelines. That means, everything you read here is my own words, not anything of the company's. I was not provided with monetary compensation for my review. All information posted has been done so with complete honesty. No action should be taken based solely on the content of this publication ( I'm not responsible.) Readers who rely on the information in this blog to replace the advise of an appropriate health care provider assume all risks of such behavior.

Derma ProMedics Eye Renewal-- A Gem for Anti-Aging

I'm back this week, after taking the last 5 days to devote to other work, and I'm so excited to be introducing the newest gem in my anti-aging arsenal -- the Eye Renewal cream from Derma ProMedics.

The folks at Derma ProMedics were so incredibly kind that they allowed me to try their Eye Renewal Cream (as well as another awesome product that's been referred to as a "face lift in a bottle, which will be reviewed later).

First, I'll share a little about these Derma ProMedics products with an excerpt straight from their website:

"Derma Promedics is a scientifically tested serum that actually works. It comprises of state of the art firming ingredients and a perfect mix of vital moisturizers along with vitamins. Once you apply Derma Promedics, the skin is well nourished and feels pampered. The effects of Derma Promedics that work on your skin are:

• Derma Promedics is purely responsible for diminishing wrinkle density by 37%

• Derma Promedics manages to reduce the Wrinkle volume by 18.5%

• Last but not the least Derma Promedics reduces surface wrinkles by 44.9%

These statistics are scientifically researched and tested. This makes Derma Promedics an Anti Aging Micro Sculpting Wrinkle reducing serum that helps to fight the signs of aging, thus giving you a young looking smooth skin."

My skin type:

Combination skin -- dry "flakes" are common around my cheeks and nose while the middle of my forehead has excess shine/oil most of the time. Breakouts occur more frequently than I'd like, leaving behind blemish marks.  Minor, but noticeable scarring on cheeks from previous breakouts.

What I Wish To Accomplish Using the Eye Cream:
 Lighten/improve the dark, sunken circles that have appeared underneath my eyes and never went away, no matter how much sleep, vitamins, minerals and herbs I take. The extra moisturization I get from using this cream is an added benefit.

 My Results with Eye Renewal Cream

Here are a couple of "before" photos so we can track my progress and you guys can follow along. Believe me, it wasn't easy posting photos of me with zero makeup (aside from mascara. I actually cleaned everything off, leaving the mascara just for these pictures!). You may notice the bags or dark eye circles. Notice the smile lines. And let's see if over the next month of using these Derma Promedics, we can't just diminish those a bit!

In this one, you can really see the under-eye circles and darkness as well as my smile lines.

 

After 1 month from the start period, I'll be taking "after" pictures and posting them for you guys to see for yourself if I've gotten any progress! Just promise not to judge! ;)First impression: I found the lovely green tinted eye cream to be quite soothing on my skin, and highly moisturizing. I usually swipe it under/around my eyes before bed & upon waking, there's no visible or feel-able residue left behind. I love that! 


Fresh cucumber scent is pleasant, does not linger.

The Eye Renewal Cream goes on smooth, is mostly light to medium weight, and absorbs into skin magnificently without leaving a greasy film of any kind. 

So far, a week into using the Eye Cream -- and also having been extremely sick with what must be a very bad cold -- I actually have not had such noticeable dark, sunken in effects under my eyes, so I'm under the impression this stuff works very quickly for those things! Seeing that, and knowing that I should be looking very dark and sickly under my eyes these last few days excites me to see further results as I continue using! I wouldn't be surprised if the darkness under my eyes eliminates all together at this rate.

I'll update you guys as I continue using. 

Bonus: The beautiful packaging the Derma ProMedics products came in makes these anti-aging gems totally gift-worthy!

With a refreshing aroma of cucumber, I wasn't surprised to find cucumber listed as one of the ingredients in the Eye Renewal. Cucumber has long been touted as an effective remedy for dark circles and puffiness, and just for its soothing properties in general, so I was pleased to see that it was used in this product.

 Disclaimer: I am not a specialist, expert, professional or doctor of any kind. Content on this blog is not intended to be taken as medical advice, diagnosis, treatment or advice of any sort. I'm simply sharing information about my own experiences and results from use of a product or activity in hopes of providing useful information to readers, not to be taken as a patient/medical adviser relationship. I am not responsible for what readers choose to do after viewing the content here. Furthermore, I do not hold an "exceptional" or other special relationship with any company mentioned on this site. I'm simply a consumer who worked with the company on a review that is in compliance with FTC's guidelines. That means, everything you read here is my own words, not anything of the company's. I was not provided with monetary compensation for my review. All information posted has been done so with complete honesty. No action should be taken based solely on the content of this publication ( I'm not responsible.) Readers who rely on the information in this blog to replace the advise of an appropriate health care provider assume all risks of such behavior.

Ritual Discovery Kit by Tatcha -- Review/My Results

   If you guys have been following Ribbons & Pearls for a long time, you may already know my deep, love for Tatcha the Japanese skincare company. Tatcha & I have collaborated together in the past, which is where I'd first tried their products, and also where my deep, ever-lasting love for them began.

The photo above is to showcase Tatcha's elegant, beautiful packaging, which includes the box, swaddled in purple tissue paper and the 4 skin-beautifying products each placed in their lavender colored slots and of course the guide and instructions to the Ritual Discovery kit. The 4 wonderful products presented inside such lovely packaging makes this a totally gift-worthy kit, and the ultimate gift for a gal like me who loves her high-quality Tatcha products.

  

Yea, Tatcha is one of those companies. The one you call your "go-to" for all your skincare needs. The one that never fails you, no matter what your skin may be doing at the moment. Dry and flaky? I know without a doubt Tatcha will have a product for that -- and one that will not only fix me right up, but also leaving me with the feeling that I've just dipped my face in an elegant bath of velvet.

      Luxury Skincare Inpspired by Geisha Rituals is Tatchas "logo," (I guess you call it,) and it sums up their skincare line well.
 
     You can read -- and I encourage you to do so -- Tatcha's intriguing, geniune journey/heritage here.

       

    Now that I've professed my dying love for such unique, effective skincare products... 

   You might recall reviews I've written about some of Tatcha's products in the past. Tatcha now has  them all put together -- based on your skincare needs -- in one easy-to-use kit: the Ritual Discovery Kit (for combination skin, like mine) which you'll read all about in this review post. Tatcha has also formulated a kit for other skin types, too:

   The Ritual Discovery kit for dry skin 

       The Ritual Discovery kit for oily skin.

    Tatcha is a health-conscious company. Their products are safe and  formulated free of awful, harmful ingredients like Mineral Oil, Synthetic Colors, Synthetic Fragrances, Sulfate Detergents, Parabens, PEGs, PPGs, Urea, DEA, TEA or Phthalates.

  

Ritual Discovery Kit contents

Tatcha has incorporated safe, effective and some of the finest  ingredients -- such as rice bran oil -- into their products for beautifying, cleansing and keeping skin looking youthful. Those are my words based off my opinion of Tatcha.  

 Rice Bran Oil -- An Ingredient for Youth & Beauty

 Back to rice bran oil for a moment. This is found in most of Tatcha products (perhaps even all?). Rice bran oil in Japan, is a popular tradition for skin and hair care as it's known for its ability to keep skin looking youthful and smooth as it increases skins elasticity.

 

 It also contains Squalane, which increases skin’s ability to regenerate, nourish, hydrate, oxygenate and protect itself.

    

    Rice bran oil contains antioxidants, which explains its ability to keep skin youthful and protect against damage.  It also contains Vitamins B and E.

  

   I could spend an entire post on just the benefits of rice bran oil on skin, but I'll try to sum it all up now: Rice bran oil exfoliates, soothes skin, promotes blood micro-circulation -- which has its own benefits such as reducing dark spots,  -- has anti-melanin properties, can lighten skin, has healing and restorative properties. If you guys want the whole she-bang about rice bran oil and its benefits alone, let me know & we'll just dedicate an entire post to that, too.  

   

   Another reason I love Tatcha is that they've put together this kit, which provides you with everything your skin type needs, allowing you to go about your life without having to pick and prod to find which moisturizer, cleanser etc you need. That's always been something I despised about skincare products. Having to search for the right moisturizer for my skin, which believe it or not has always been a tremendous feat thanks to my weirdly and intensively dry skin. Then, having to find the product to fix the only spots on my face that aren't so dry they flake -- my forehead, which is so shiny that folks around me could use it as a mirror! Combination skin is a b****, and so is trying to find the right products for it.

    You see, a lot of folks, like myself absolutely need a moisturizer. I know some people are able to just cleanse with whatever soap happens to be in their shower & go. Not me. I have to slather on moisturizer, and usually, I have to after showering and as I wake up! 

    The Ritual Discovery kit is quite perfect for my skincare needs, and not only because it's all put together in one kit, based off my own skin-type, but also because the 4 products, especially my all-time favorite skin-saving Tatcha items (to be revealed momentarily) are included.

A look Inside the Ritual Discover Kit's Contents

Ritual Discovery Kit is a 4-step kit, containing:

 
Step 1: Pure
 One Step Camellia Cleansing Oil.

Step 2: Polished
Rice Enzyme Powder.

Step 3. Radiant
Radiant Deep Brightening Serum.

Step 4. Supple 

Moisture Rich Silk Cream Ageless Enriching Renewal Cream.

Another Close-up of All Products Within Ritual Discovery Kit

  Now we'll discuss each of them and how they work

One Step Camellia Cleansing Oil:
I'll start in order, with the One Step Camellia Cleansing Oil. If some of you still haven't come around to the idea of using oil on your face, let me please just beg you now to try. After all, I have guinea pigged myself right here on Ribbons & Pearls multiple times in the last 2 years by  sharing my adventures into using different oils (olive oil was first) on my skin. Using oil, especially Tatcha's Camellia Oil has been a constant, daily part of my routine ever since I first used an oil on my face.

In fact, I really loved olive oil for my skin. It, for some reason worked so wonderful for me that I kept going back to it, even after trying others like coconut oil!  That was quickly replaced with the Camellia Oil as soon as I used it, I guess a year or so ago. 

In fact, I still had a bit of the Camellia Oil left, even when the Ritual Discovery Kit arrived to me. I have used the Camellia Oil daily, without exception. If I'm not using it as a cleanser (rare, but I do switch up with an exfoliator every few days), I'm always using it upon waking, to remove any left-over makeup & leave my skin glowing. 

Is Oil Really Appropriate for Cleansing Skin?

Oil like the Camellia Oil is a magnificent cleanser for our skin. When I first began using oil, I felt the same thing some of you may be thinking: but oil can't possibly remove all dirt and grime. I was proved wrong. It does remove all of that. In fact it removes even the thickest black makeup and far better than any soap based cleanser. Yes, even better than any make-up remover, including the handy wipes. Nothing comes close to removing makeup and crud from my face like the oil.

If you don't believe me, you can test it yourself, just as I did. Cleanse your face with your regular soap, then go back over it after you're finished with the oil on a cloth or cotton ball. You'll be shocked at what was left behind. 

Camellia Oil washes away dirt and impurities, but does not strip away natural oils.

Aside from the deep cleansing Camellia Oil provides, we can't deny the fact nature never intended for us to strip away all oils from our skin. Sure we should clean it well, and make sure the build-up, sweat, dirt, pollutants, etc. are removed. Being left with skin so dry and tight it felt as if it would crack (not to mention how it looked!) after using any drugstore bought facial cleanser, and even many natural cleansers, was proof enough for me to come to terms with the fact that I simply couldn't use most cleansers. Camellia Oil has been a life-saver for my skin.


What is Camellia Oil, anyways?
The Camellia Oil from Tatcha is a blend of Camellia and rice bran oils.
Camellia oil comes from Camellia Japonica Seed. 


And for the days when my skin needs a good exfolliating, the Rice Enzyme Powder serves it up just perfectly!Specs:

• Camellia Oil is good for all skin types.

• Non-irritating. Non-sensitizing. Dermatologist tested.

• Formulated without:

Mineral Oil, Synthetic Colors, Synthetic Fragrances, Sulfate Detergents, Parabens, PEGs, PPGs, Urea, DEA, TEA or Phthalates.

Ingredients:
Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Oil, Polyglyceryl-10 Dioleate, Polyglyceryl-2 Sesquicaprylate, Camellia Japonica Seed Oil, Glyceryl Behenate/eicosadioate, Water, Algae Extract, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Glycerin, Ethylhexylglycerin, Alcohol, Fragrance (Natural), Phenoxyethanol.

 Step 2: The always promising and one of my favorites -- the little Rice Enzyme Powder super heroes.  

The Rice Enzyme Powder gently exfoliates skin, while giving pores a nice deep cleaning and leaving your skin feeling soft as can be! With ingredients like papaya extract and algae extract, the Rice Enzyme Powder never fails to exfoliate away all the old, while green tea extract soothes.  

It's a dry, white-colored powder that when mixed with water, transforms into a lovely white creamy paste. Add water to before applying.  For some reason, this process always excites me! I love mixing it and the way it feels to apply it, massaging it all over my face is pleasing. Not sure why that is, but something about it feels good, and I especially love that it actually feels as if the creamy product is going way deep down into every pore and totally cleaning it inside and out! I've never felt such a cleansing experience.

 Just what I need in an exfoliator because it allows me to have a deep cleaning without being so harsh it leaves my skin raw or dry as a bone. I like this because a harsh exfoliator used to seem like the only route as anything less than harsh wouldn't seem to really cleanse well.


Know what makes this Ritual Discovery Kit even better? Two of the products -- the Rice Enzyme Powder and Camellia Oil can be combined, which is my preferred method.

I combine a drop of the Camellia oil with the dry Rice Enzyme Powder to add immediate moisturization and glow to my skin as it's being cleansed and exfoliated. This also helps prevent any dryness that might occur.  I even find the powder soothing when there's irritations on my skin.

Other times when time permits, knowing how beneficial the ingredients in the Rice Enzyme Powder are, I love to massage my face well, then just let it dry there. Once dry, it's almost like a face mask, and I just feel like the longer I can keep these awesome ingredients in the powder on my skin, the better. And the best part: it never dries me out! Other products, I wouldn't dare let sit on my skin, or even massage too long because it'd end up drying it out. This never dries my skin out, but provides the deepest clean ever.

What is Rice Enzyme Powder?
A water-activated enzyme powder of rice bran, papaya + HADASEI-3 Bioactive Complex.

Specs:

• Gentle for dry/sensitive skin. Classic for normal/combination skin, and Deep for oily/acne-prone skin. 

• Non-irritating. Non-sensitizing. Dermatologist tested.

• *The Classic Rice Enzyme Powder and Deep Rice Enzyme Powder have been reformulated with cellulose (plant fiber) beads instead of polyethylene.

Ingredients:

Classic: Talc, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Potassium Myristate, Polyethylene*, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran, Papain (Papaya Extract), Dextrin, Algae Extract, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Glycerin, Alcohol, Hydrolyzed Conchiolin (Pearl) Protein,  Phenoxyethanol.

 Gentle: Talc, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Potassium Myristate, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Papain, Dextrin, Algae Extract, Camellia Sinesis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Glycerin, Alcohol, Phenoxyethanol, Cl 73360, Iron Oxides (Cl 77492).
Deep: Talc, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Potassium Myristate, Polyethylene*, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran, Papain, Dextrin, Algae Extract, Camellia Sinesis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Glycerin, Houttuynia Cordata Extract (Dokudami), Alcohol, Phenoxyethanol, Ultramarines, Iron Oxides (Cl 77492)

Step 3 Deep Brightening Serum

Contains :
Asian botanicals + HADASEI-3 Bioactive Complex for radiant looking skin.

The Deep Brightening Serum is one of the items in the kit that can be easy to skip over when lacking time.  However, I've learned that when I do take the time to use all steps of the kit, my skin does appear somewhat better for it. The Deep Brightening Serum does give a serious glow to my skin, not so richly moisturizing as Step 4, but definitely leaves shine. I like to use it at night so it has time to really absorb well. 

The thing about the Deep Brightening Serum is that it does give your skin a radiant look, and it also brightens/lightens skin such as dark spots.  So, I've found that dark circles under my eyes  have started to improve, thank God! I've tried everything under the sun for those suckers. 

The Deep Brightening serum is lightweight and thinner than a thick, creamy, rich moisturizer. It may even double as a moisturizer for people without severe dry skin. 

The Serum is definitely worth sticking with for the results in the long run. Plus, it too has a lovely, fresh scent. The only real hesitation I have about the serum is one of the ingredients, Cyclopentasiloxane. This is usually used in skin-related products for the consistency or to make it have a silky feel. It's recently been showing up in almost every single foundation/cover up cosmetic in stores. I literally found TWO in Wal-Mart that did not contain it. Even Physician's Formula has started using it.  The point, though, it seemed that the cyclopentasiloxane had been causing my skin to break out. I could be wrong about it, but I knew that once I narrowed down every ingredient I was using on my face, only when I removed anything with cyclopentasiloxane did I see improvements. And they were quite major improvements. So, I could do without that being so high up on the serum's ingredient list. We'll see how it goes, though as I continue using the kit. **See my note (below, in the section about the moisturizer) about other reviewers' posted experiences regarding the Tatcha products that contain cyclopentasiloxane.

Specs:

• All Skin Types. Non-irritating. Non-sensitizing. Dermatologist tested.

• Formulated without:  Kojic Acid, Hydroquinone, Mineral Oil, Synthetic Colors, Synthetic Fragrances, Sulfate Detergents, Parabens, PEGs, PPGs, Urea, DEA, TEA or Phthalates.

Ingredients:

Water, Glycerin, Propanediol, Alcohol, Cyclopentasiloxane, Squalane (Olive Origin), Isocetyl Stearate, Inositol (Rice Extract), Oryza Sativa (Rice) Germ Oil, Polyglyceryl-2 Triisostearate, Polyglyceryl-10 Isostearate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Glyceryl Stearate, Behenyl Alcohol, Sericin (Silk Extract), Arginine, Carbomer, Xanthan Gum, Biosaccharide Gum-1, Sodium Hyaluronate, Zizyphus Jujuba Fruit Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract, Cetearyl Alcohol, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Sorbitan Stearate, Caprylic/capric Triglyceride, Hydrogenerated Lecithin (Soy Origin), Algae Extract, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Fragrance (Natural), Phenoxyethanol.

Step 4 Supple  - Moisture rich silk cream

There's nothing I adore more about the Supple Rich Silk Cream than its amazing, fresh scent. It dissipates soon after absorbing into the skin, but the scent makes applying it a real nice experience. It's so herb-y and fresh.

The Supple Rich Silk Cream is definitely rich. It's somewhat thick, spreads easily. It leaves a ... glow behind on skin, and for oily skin, it seems like it might contribute to more shine. However, a little powder does the trick for my already shiny forehead.

As good as a moisturizer may smell, it's totally useless if it doesn't do what it's supposed to do -- moisturize! And it's almost shameful the huge amount of moisturizers piled up in the corner of my room because they didn't moisturize, or they left my skin sticky (something I vehemently loathe). 

While you might have some shine left behind, the Supple cream certainly won't leave you with any of those dry patches or flakes! Like I've said, some parts of my skin are so severely dry that I've literally caked on lotions and moisturizers to no avail! Even those intensively moisturizing foot creams. Yea, that bad. Even after slathering olive or coconut oil on overnight, I still have to apply moisturizer when I wake up.

It's so rare that I find a moisturizer that actually takes care of my dry patches that I'm impressed with this one. It takes great care of any dryness. In fact, ever since I started using the Ritual Discovery kit, I've not had to go the extra mile and add more moisturizer. I've only had to apply it once daily. This is big progress for me! However, this one also has cyclopentasiloxane high on the ingredient list, so I'm going to be on the lookout and hope this won't break out my skin the way previous products containing this ingredient have. 

**Note regarding the ingredient cyclopentasiloxane: It's important to note that while reading several other accounts of folks who've also used the two products from Tatcha that contain it (The Silk moisturizer and Serum), none of them have mentioned any acne or increases in irritation/acne. In fact, out of all the testimonials I read, more than a couple mentioned major improvements in problems like rosacea, while using these. Most testimonials found online, of all these 4 products mention huge improvements in their skin after regular use, so my worries are probably nothing. I will update, though.

Something else I can label a big pro is that this Silk moisturizer can be applied minutes before applying makeup. It works well underneath makeup.

Specs:

• All Skin Types. Non-irritating. Non-sensitizing. Dermatologist tested.
• No sticky, heavy left-behind residues.
•   Formulated without: Mineral Oil, Synthetic fragrances, Sulfate Detergents, Parabens, PEGs, PPGs, Urea, DEA, TEA or Phthalates.

Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Propanediol, Alcohol, Cyclopentasiloxane, Isocetyl Stearate, Squalane (Olive Origin), Inositol (Rice Extract), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Sorbitan Stearate, Behenyl Alcohol, Stearic Acid, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Germ Oil, Hydrogenated Lecithin (Soy Origin), Polyglyceryl-2 Triisostearate, Batyl Alcohol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Arginine, Bis-behenyl/Isostearyl/Phytosteryl Dimer Dilinoleyl Dimer Dilinoleate, Carbomer, Sericin (Silk Extract), Xanthan Gum, Biosaccharide Gum-1, Sodium Hyaluronate, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Royal Jelly Extract, Thymus Serpillum Extract, Algae Extract, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Fragrance (Natural) , Phenoxyethanol.


Pros/Cons - Recap-
Without becoming too exhaustive, lets sum up the biggest pros (things I love) about the Tatcha products in the Ritual Discovery Kit:

• Very effective, high quality, well-researched ingredients in all the products. 
• Major benefits include anti-aging, reversing dark spots/sun-spots/age spots.
• Many people have said they seen all -around major improvements in their skin after regular use for a few months. I'll update as time goes on.
• Highly moisturizing.
• Smooth, soft skin that's no longer dry with improvements of dark circles under eyes have been my improvements. 
• Works well under makeup.
• Deep cleansing (rice powder and Camellia oil.)
•  No left-behind residues
•  Impressive company. 
• 4-steps is totally worth the benefits from using these 4 Tatcha products.

 Only thing I'm not 100% certain about is the ingredient cyclopentasiloxane in 2 of the products (because of previous acne that I thought was caused from that ingredient). This 'thought' may actually be useless, as I said when I mentioned it earlier. It left me unsure, but I feel like with all the other sensitive-skin testimonials saying such great things, I will probably be just fine.

Disclaimer: I am not a specialist, expert, professional or doctor of any kind. Content on this blog is not intended to be taken as medical advice, diagnosis, treatment or advice of any sort. I'm simply sharing information about my own experiences and results from use of a product or activity in hopes of providing useful information to readers, not to be taken as a patient/medical adviser relationship. I am not responsible for what readers choose to do after viewing the content here. Furthermore, I do not hold an "exceptional" or other special relationship with any company mentioned on this site. I'm simply a consumer who worked with the company on a review that is in compliance with FTC's guidelines. That means, everything you read here is my own words, not anything of the company's. I was not provided with monetary compensation for my review. All information posted has been done so with complete honesty. No action should be taken based solely on the content of this publication ( I'm not responsible.) Readers who rely on the information in this blog to replace the advise of an appropriate health care provider assume all risks of such behavior.

Somatique Face Cleanser Review

In this review, you'll read about Somatique's Facial Cleanser (Pictured on right). To read about the Stretch Mark Treatment, click here.

     

You guys may remember my postings on Lady Soma products I'd used (and fallen in love with) a while back. I have had the amazing opportunity to try two newer products from the same folks of the Lady Soma product line. This one is Somatique, and I've been using both their Facial Cleanser and their Stretch Mark Treatment. In this post, I'm going to discuss the Facial Cleanser because I just can't get enough of the stuff! And also because I haven't yet gotten to use the Stretch Mark Treatment for a long period of time, so I won't be posting on it until I've used it long enough to see the full results. Be on the lookout for that post in the future, though, because I already know it's going to be an exciting one (hint: I'm already pretty impressed with the Stretch Mark Treatment).

Now, I don't often spend time writing about a facial cleanser unless there's really something that can be said about it, and let me tell you, with the effective and carefully selected ingredients in the Somatique Facial Cleanser, there is a lot to be said about it. It's good stuff! 

In this post, I'm going to go into detail about the ingredients in this Facial Cleanser, so you get a good understanding of why I am so fond of it.   Hint: Ya'll know I adore a facial cleanser that's natural, safe and packed with great skin benefits! 

Keep reading to get the whole low-down on the Somatique Cleanser.

Somatique Facial Cleanser is, as the bottle says, a "thorough and gentle cleanser," which is really what most of us want in a facial cleanser. The key is to get those pores well cleaned without completely stripping your face of all its great stuff like the natural, and necessary oils. 

And let's face it, some of us have a tough time getting a cleanser that provides us with clean skin while not stripping it down to a face full of flaky, dry skin. Can anybody relate?

For most of my life, I've struggled with my facial cleansers. I've tried it all. And my skin refuses to be laid back and easy going. It wants to be oily in some areas and dry, flaky in others. It wants to break out here and there, and whew! It's exhausting.

I was really fond of the Lady Soma Berry Face Mask I'd used in the past, and still enjoy using from time to time. So when the opportunity to introduce a brand new facial cleanser into my beauty routine came up, I didn't hesitate to try it out. My skin tends to spaz out anytime I introduce it to a new cleanser, but I was all too  happy to go there with the Somatique Cleanser. Are you ready to hear how that has been going for me and my crazy, mood-swinging skin?

My Results Using Somatique Facial Cleanser

Immediately after using Somatique Facial Cleanser, my skin was soft and smooth! That's something I don't feel often, so I was happy when I rinsed off and revealed soft skin that wasn't so dry that it felt tight. That's kind of what I expected simply because I could just feel the great cleansing action happening when I massaged the cleanser on my face.

During the first couple of weeks of using the Somatique Facial Cleanser, I began to see an improvement in my skin's texture (which was awful at the time of starting!) My pores were looking less large, and to my surprise, those blasted dark eye circles that have resulted in so much frustration lately appeared to be looking less... dark and circley!

 I didn't expect the facial cleanser to have any affect on those stubborn fellas, so I was nearly awe-struck (that's a word, right?) when I seen them improving. Also because I've literally used every "remedy" you can find for ridding my face of those monsters. I'd even made up a few myself (ahem, peroxide, etc. No, I'm not proud...)

I actually didn't consider that the Somatique Facial Cleanser was the culprit for such improvement until I seen the dark circles continue to improve to the point where I thought it through to figure out what could've changed. Only one thing -- the Facial Cleanser. Even my diet hadn't changed. So I confident-ally tell folks that this cleanser seems to have improved my eye circles. 

Aside from that awesome, unexpected benefit, my skin is going through a process of change, it seems. It was really looking rough as far as my texture, complexion and random breakouts of all sorts. It was overwhelming, so it took some time for the Somatique Facial Cleanser to really work through my skin's horrors, but I'm seeing it look more smoother every week. 

The breakouts are happening less, too, but I'm still battling a few left-over scars and blemishes, which even those seemed to show some improvements after a week into the Facial Cleanser. 

This cleanser is incredible for extremely dry, irritated skin. Since it's packed with many herbs that are so effective in reducing irritation, calming, removing marks, scars, etc, it's an absolute favorite of mine, and is the perfect go-to for all skincare issues. And to really make me fall in love, Somatique went and included well-researched ingredients for serious anti-aging, and also those that have the ability to reduce damage already done to the skin, including signs of aging. 

You can read more into the benefits to be had by scanning the "Ingredients" section of this post. There you'll find where I've briefly included the biggest benefits of each ingredient.

Features I Love About Somatique Facial Cleanser:

As if the above results I shared aren't enough to love Somatique Facial Cleanser, there's more! 

• It really is gentle. Many products put that claim on their label, but most of those never failed to still strip my skin dry and leave it flaky. This cleanser from the Somatique line actually is gentle on your skin. 

 Heavy make-up wearers rejoice! Somatique's cleanser will not fail you. Yes, even your black mascara...

•  It cleans well. Yes, that's important to note because I've used a few cleansers in my life that did not remove dirt and makeup as well as others. This cleanser is probably one of the most effective cleaners I've used of the natural category. A lot of natural cleansers are great, but don't always have that super cleansing power that some of us rely on. 

•  The ingredients in the cleanser work to help repair your skin and keep it healthy, even after you rinse!

•  While this doesn't make or break a product or its efficiency, I can't help but love Somatique's Cleanser even more for its awesome scent! It's a completely natural-smelling, light, but herbal scent and I adore it! I could inhale that scent. I wish I could have body spray of that scent. It's just so lovely, refreshing and clean!
  

• The ingredients!   Ooh, this is one of the most exciting parts. I love knowing that the ingredients in a facial product are very effective and have so many benefits for my skin. I'll go into detail on that below, for you other ingredient-freaks out there. The Somatique cleanser contains a variety of organic herbs, which is always a major plus to me. Very important!
  

Ingredients and Their Benefits:

 Organic Herbs, Organic Aloe Vera Leaf Juice, Decyl Glucoside, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Cocamidopropyl Betaine (from coconuts), Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (Vitamin C), MSM, Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate, Disodium Lauryl Sulfosuccinate, Carbomer, Amino Acids, Hyaluronic Acid, Wildcrafted Wild Cherry, Wildcrafted Dandelion, Wildcrafted Euphrasia Officinalis (Eyebright), Olive Oil, Organic Rose Hip Oil, Borage Oil, Orange Peel Tincture, Oregano Oil, Tea Tree Oil, Phenoxyethanol, Ethyl Hexyl Glycerin.

 Firstly, let's start with its high concentration of antioxidants (these guys are a must for folks who want nice, anti-aged skin!) That's something I loved about the Lady Soma berry mask -- the high antioxidant content -- so I was happy to see that this line also uses high amounts.

Most folks already know about antioxidants, so I won't overwhelm you with the information and benefits that come with using them (internally and externally). We know that antioxidants are responsible for not only preventing damage to the skin, but also repairing it, too.  
 

Aloe Vera! 

Ya'll know I have to refrain from getting too excited when I talk about healthy, awesome ingredients like aloe. It has been my life-saver in more ways than just skin-related (IBS - candidiasis). Aloe has so many benefits for us, internally and externally. It's soothing to any kind of irritation, it helps heal and has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. 

 

 Amino Acid and Hyaluronic Acids

For someone like me with such problematic skin, Hyaluronic acid is good to remove the old dead skin build-up, and helps rejuvenate and encourage new skin cells. This results in a brighter complexion, for one.

 Hyaluronic acid (naturally found in skin) helps re-hydrate. It holds up to 1,000 times its weight in water, which means it's incredibly effective in delivering moisture to skin and holding it in there.

HA  protects skin from dirt and pollutants, provides tissue repair, helps skin hold in collagen and elastin, and plays an important role in keeping skin youthful. HA also creates a protective barrier against microorganisms.

Amino acids increase skin's capacity to stay hydrated. They

keep skin strong and healthy. They can help smooth skin and fill in lines/wrinkles, reduce appearance of scars, age spots, stretch marks, etc. They also even skin tone and color, which results in a nicer complexion.

P.S. Taking amino acids internally as well can boost your wrinkle-fighting as it causes an increase in collagen production, so using both the Somatique Cleanser and taking amino acids internally can really enhance your benefits. 

Tea Tree Oil 

Tea tree oil is another all-time favorite of mine simply for its many uses. Tea tree oil has been a staple in the medicine cabinet since I was a small child, so I've continued to keep it on hand and take advantage of its benefits throughout my life. Tea Tree oil is used effectively to treat a lot of skin problems including acne, 

Like aloe vera (also an ingredient in this facial cleanser), tea tree oil is a potent anti-fungal, antibacterial and anti-viral. As an un-related side note, I've even used tea tree oil to cure yeast infections, and I've discussed how I did that in previous posts.

It kills bacteria, so this is one reason it's so effective in treating acne.

Tea tree oil is a natural skin-toner, and strangely enough, it has the ability to soak up oils! It's an oil that soaks up other oils. This is why tea tree oil can be drying to the skin if used in excess, but that's no issue since it's one of many ingredients in the Somatique cleanser. 

Rosehip Oil 

Rosehip oil is rich in Vitamin C, and is amazing because it not only repairs damaged skin cells and reduces wrinkles, but is helpful for acne scars, dryness, eczema, burns and more. Rosehip oil is --  like many of the well-researched ingredients Somatique used in this product -- very effective for all sorts of skincare needs. It rehydrates skin

 How it Feels

 

Check out the Facial Cleanser in the photo above. I know it's not good quality, but I'm still trying to hone my skills with photography, and my camera wasn't loving its job that day.

I hope you can still see it enough to get an idea of the texture/consistency of the Somatique Cleanser. I'm really fond of the super rich, thick, gel-like consistency this has to it. It means that I can use a small drop to thoroughly cover my whole face.

I'm not kidding when I say it's thick! It lathers better than most of my actual body-soaps! It makes for a nice massage on my face and neck, too.

Disclaimer (I know, I hate them, too, but these days you kind of can't afford to note post them.):

I am not a specialist or any other kind of doctor or expert. Content on this blog is not intended to be taken as medical advice, diagnosis, treatment or advice of any sort. I'm simply sharing information about my own experiences and results from use of a product or activity in hopes of providing useful information/suggestions to readers, not to be taken as a patient/medical adviser relationship. I am not responsible for what readers choose to do after viewing the content here. Furthermore, I do not hold an "exceptional" or other special relationship with the company mentioned. I'm simply a consumer who worked with the company on a review that is in compliance with FTTC's guidelines. That means, everything you read here is my own words, not anything of the company's. I was not provided with monetary compensation for my review. All information posted has been done so with complete honesty. No action should be taken based solely on the content of this publication ( I'm not responsible.) Readers who rely on the information in this blog to replace the advise of an appropriate health care provider assume all risks of such behavior.