Innisfree's New Arrivals: A Quick Review On Retinol Cica Repair Ampoule and Vitamin C Serum
Innisfree, a beloved natural beauty brand from South Korea, has been a favorite among Filipino kbeauty lovers since they first opened in Manila in 2018. Now, in 2023, they're doing something really exciting – they're undergoing a huge makeover. Their aim is to bring effective skincare that harnesses the power of nature, something they've always been passionate about. What's really cool is that they're introducing this whole new concept – the New Isle. Think of it as adding a magical, new island to the Philippines' already impressive list of 7,103 islands. The New Isle is a kind of mystical place that captures the essence of where Innisfree gets its nature-inspired ingredients. It's like this perfect blend of beauty and the natural world, and it feels like something straight out of a fairy tale.
Mingyu, known for his charismatic presence in the popular K-pop group Seventeen, and Jang Wonyoung, celebrated for her standout performances in the girl group IVE, are the latest ambassadors for Innisfree. Both artists are renowned not just for their musical talents but also for their distinctive styles and vibrant personalities, which align perfectly with Innisfree's fresh and natural aesthetic. Their involvement is likely to bring a unique flair to the brand, appealing to a wide fanbase. Mingyu and Jang Wonyoung's influence extends beyond music, making them ideal representatives to connect Innisfree with a younger, dynamic audience that values both style and substance in their skincare choices.
Mingyu of Seventeen
Jang Wonyoung of IVE
Innisfree's latest packaging revamp is a minimalist's dream, featuring a soothing neutral design that would elegantly complement any vanity setup. I recently had the opportunity to test two of their newest products: the Retinol Cica Repair Ampoule and the Vitamin C Green Tea Enzyme Brightening Serum, both priced at P2050 for a 30ml bottle. Here's my experience after a week of use.
Retinol Cica Repair Ampoule (P2,050 / 30ml)
As someone with sensitive skin, I've always been hesitant to incorporate retinol into my skincare regimen. However, the Retinol Cica Repair Ampoule, which is specifically formulated for acne-prone and sensitive skin types, intrigued me enough to give it a try. It's designed for daily use and claims to be non-irritating. To ensure a safe introduction to retinol, I followed these essential steps:
Conducted a patch test on my wrist for any immediate reactions.
Prepared my skin with moisturizer before and after applying the retinol.
Diligently applied sunscreen.
Avoided using it alongside AHA exfoliators or mechanical exfoliation.
I'm pleased to report that the ampoule lived up to its claims. There was no irritation, and I successfully bypassed the infamous 'retinol purge.' Retinol functions by penetrating the dermis layer of the skin, neutralizing free radicals, and promoting collagen and elastin production. This process helps improve the appearance of lines, wrinkles, and pores. While some retinol products can cause peeling, the hydrating formula of this ampoule, enriched with ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and cica, prevented any such issues. The result was a gentle yet effective product that visibly reduced the texture of pores around my nose and under my eyes.
Vitamin C Green Tea Enzyme Brightening Serum (P2050/30ml)
This serum promises to enhance skin clarity and texture, targeting dark spots and uneven skin tone. I was particularly interested in seeing its effects on the freckles and sun spots on my cheeks and nose. Innisfree suggests using it in tandem with their retinol product for optimal results. The serum combines water-derived and oil-derived Vitamin C with niacinamide for a potent brightening effect. Additionally, it includes Jeju Green Tea Enzyme, which gently exfoliates and smoothens the skin. Its thick, oil-like texture absorbed well, leaving my skin feeling sufficiently moisturized.
before
after
Overall Impression
The Retinol Cica Repair Ampoule is a product I'd highly recommend, especially for those new to retinol. Its gentle formula didn't cause any irritation or flakiness, and my skin felt hydrated and plump. Notably, the texture of my skin improved, particularly around the nose and under-eye areas, where pores appeared less prominent. As for the Vitamin C serum, while I didn't see a dramatic change in my freckles and sun spots within a week, the product suggests a four-week usage period for noticeable skin brightening effects. I'm curious to know your thoughts on these products – have you tried them yet?
Cop the Innisfree’s newest formulas and best skincare deals on Lazada and on their official website.