Review | #TrySimpleSkincare Micellar Products

So lately there has been the talk of "micelles", which are tiny oil molecules (fatty-acid esters) that are suspended in water, and are small enough to enter pores for an effective clean over water. They are supposed to attract and draw out impurities then dissolve them, without stripping the skin of its natural oils. These mild soap-like  surfactants, that originate from France,is ideal for sensitive skin, since overwashing it with "chemically harsh cleansers" may irritate the skin and throw off the skin's acidity.

Micellar Makeup Remover Wipes ($7 for 25 wipes)

Claims:
• unclogs pores of oil, dirt, impurities and instantly hydrates freshens
• removes "tough makeup" simply
• no alcohol, oil, harsh chemicals

Ingredients:
Micelles - deep cleanses makeup without stripping hydration from skin
Vitamin B - restores, softens, smoothens skin
Vitamin E - replenishes, moisturizes skin
Triple-Purified Water - minimizes skin irritation

My Verdict:
• love how there is barely any scent
• wipes are soft in both formulation and texture
• removes simple makeup quite easily
• cannot remove waterproof eye makeup (ie. mascara) as effectively as their  "Simple Cleansing Facial Wipes" which are meant for that
• skin actually feels fresh and moisturized!

Micellar Cleansing Water ($7 for 190mL)

Claims:
• unclogs pores of oil, dirt, impurities and instantly hydrates freshens
• boosts skin hydration by 90%

Ingredients:
Micelles - deep cleanses makeup without stripping hydration from skin
Vitamin B - restores, softens, smoothens skin
Vitamin C - brightens, hydrates skin
Triple-Purified Water - minimizes skin irritation
Hexylene Glycol - dissolves makeup and conditions skin

Verdict:
• runny/watery consistency so definitely use a cotton pad
• better alternative than using a toner to remove residue because it is hydrating and is meant for deep cleaning
• have to revert to cleansing oil/wipes when removing stubborn eye makeup

Replenishing Rich Moisturizer

Claims:
• doubles skin hydration
• nourishes skin all day
• hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic
• no parabens, dyes, harsh chemicals

Ingredients:
Pro-Vitamin B5 - restores, softens, smoothens skin
Chamomile - softens, soothes
Glycerin - hydrates
Allantoin - soothes

My Verdict:
• absorbs slowly and has a moisturizing layer formed over skin but will not last all day
• perfect all-year round
• simply moisturizes
• builds a thick goopy layer if too much is used; a little goes a long way

Although it feels weird not using water to remove my makeup, it's intriguing that micelle technology like this is even more effective than it. I feel that it cannot replace a regular makeup remover or cleansing oil because it'll be troublesome removing heavy makeup (ie. waterproof eyeliner, mascara, glitter). Since it's not oily, it will be refreshing for summer days. I find that it is best to leave it next to my bed-side table to motivate myself to remove my makeup after a long day, then proceed to wash my face. It would be perfect for travelling in that sense, where makeup looks will be light.
Products have been sent by Chickadvisor for consideration. All opinions are 100% my own.

Review | Shara Shara Honey Bomb

3-in-1 treatment • glowing skin • 250mL

Claims:
• uses Clear Nutrition Gel Technology: botanical, moisturizing, natural ingredients that hydrate without the stickiness
• improves skin texture, glowiness, fine lines
• 3-in-1 treatment (toner, serum, moisturizer)
• all skin types
• no artificial colorants, parabens, mineral oil, fragrance, synthetic dyes

Ingredients:
Manuka Honey: nutritious honey from New Zealand, amino acids & vitamins
Royal Jelly: hydrating, anti-inflammatory
Propolis Extract: treats acne
Bamboo extract: firms, hydrates skin with antioxidants
Sea buckthorn berry extract: hydrating, anti-inflammatory, heals wounds
Niacinamide: decreases hyperpigmentation

My Verdict:
• has an artificial sweet smell that is subtle but noticeable - not my favourite
• comes in a jar with spatula - I like to decant this into a glass dropper bottle to keep contents hygenic
• applies stickily and absorbs a little slower than the usual
• feels lightweight yet moisturizing for a pure bee honey complex
• may seem pricey ($36CAD on ebay) but comes in a 250mL bottle that will last awhile
• seems to be solely a hydrating ampoule & light moisturizer but not a toner
• skin glows immediately after use, making it a great base for daytime makeup as well

First Impression | Biore Baking Soda

Biore Baking Soda

pH balanced • deep cleanses • gently exfoliates

This line was featured in Glow Magazine's Spring Checklist in their newest issue!

Biore Baking Soda Pore Cleanser (200mL)

Claims:
• for everyday use
• ideal for combination skin
• oil-free

Ingredients:
Water: main ingredient
Glycerin: humectant (attracts water)
Sodium Laureth Sulfate: foaming agent
Salicylic Acid: heals acne
Citric Acid: balances out pH, promotes skin regrowth
Sodium Bicarbonate: gently exfoliates skin & deep cleanses pores

My Verdict:
• leaves skin with a matte texture
• pores feel invigorated

Biore Baking Soda Cleansing Scrub (127g)

Claims:
• use 2-3 times a week
• cleans 2.5x better than basic cleansing

Ingredients:
Sodium Bicarbonate: main ingredient. gently exfoliates skin & deep cleanses pores
Citric Acid: balances out pH, promotes skin regrowth
Menthol: potential irritant

My Verdict:
• flip top cap is convenient for dispensing
• maximum quarter-size of the powder is needed
• make sure to mix with water in your palm before applying to face
• more water added softens cleansing action
• face feels squeaky clean and dry
• it is key to moisturize after since this is an exfoliator

Final Thoughts for Both Products:
Surprisingly, both of the products have the same pleasant smell that remind me of one of my first Biore products that was a holy grail of mine: the Steam-Activated Green Tea cleanser! I had expected a harsh grainy smell, instead. The conveniently-packaged dispensing products create instant results by fizzing up in deeply cleaning out pores of makeup & dirt and leaving a matte skin texture. It's the ultimate cleanse for days that I've felt I've been sweating a lot, exposed to the outdoors. I believe this product will be more ideal for summer use. Even though baking soda in itself has a more basic pH=9, it is balanced out by the citric acid in the products. The cleansing scrub is a harsher exfoliator in comparison so I suggest using less than the recommended quarter-size with more water. Also, with baking soda being multi-purpose and skin-care friendly, I can imagine myself using this for acne spot treatments, body odour, and stained nails/enamel in emergency scenarios.

Products have been sent by @InfluensterCA for consideration. All opinions are 100% my own.