My Thoughts about SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Toning Toner
A few days ago, Review Hunters reached out to me to try out the SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Toning Toner. As I am always on the lookout for new skincare products to try, I said yes and got my package sorted.
While waiting for the items to arrive (as the items ship directly from South Korea), I researched the items, and here is what I have learned.
SKIN1004 started in 2012 in South Korea with a promise to deliver the trusted skincare benefits of its star ingredient, Centella Asiatica, which they source from Madagascar. They also aim to be your skin's guardian angel, as the number “one thousand and four” is a homonym for “angel” in the Korean language.
The main ingredients of their Toning Toner are: Centella Asiatica extract, PHA (gluconolactone), and hyaluronic acid
What do these ingredients do to our skin?
1. Centella Asiatica Extract
The star ingredient, Centella Asiatica Extract or also known as "cica" or "Madecassoside" is an anti-aging, moisturizing, soothing, and healing ingredient that is almost always featured in most South Korean skincare products. It also has an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect which is something skincare lovers look for in a skincare item. Most importantly, it helps revitalize the skin's protective barrier and neutralize the free radical damage caused by the sun and pollution exposure.
2. PHA (gluconolactone)
PHA or Polyhydroxy acid is a chemical exfoliant related to the better known AHAs and BHAs. The main highlight of this ingredient is that it focuses on the skin surface rather than the deeper skin layers, making it gentler than other chemical exfoliants. This is recommended for dry skin as it is also a humectant, which means it helps to keep moisture on the skin.
Lastly, we have hyaluronic acid which is a natural humectant which means it helps keep moisture on the skin. Amazingly, it can hold up to 1,000 times its molecular weight in water. It helps minimize skin texture like lines and wrinkles and also helps keep the skin barrier strong. Another highlight of this ingredient is that it can help lighten dark spots and pimple scars. Hyaluronic Acid is best for dry skin but can help regulate oil glands for oily skin.
Yesterday, I received the product and so here is what I think about it.
It comes in a sturdy white box that feels simple yet luxe. The Madagascar Sahara is also featured prominently on the box to highlight where the power ingredient comes from.
It says: This is a daily toner that contains Centella Asiatica Extract from the untouched nature of Madagascar and PHA, a gentle exfoliating ingredient. These properties help maintain clearer and healthier skin and aid in activating the skin turnover cycle.
There is also the usage instructions: Apply an appropriate amount to either a cotton pad or directly on to the palm and gently at into the skin.
I like that it is has a clear caution on the box that says this is for external use, not for children and eyes, and to stop using if there is any irritation. The sticker seal is also great, along with the "12 months after opening" sign on the bottom.
There is also a full list of ingredients;
Upon opening, I liked the cute messages on the flaps that say "The gift from the untouched nature" and "From Madagascar". It tells me that they ut thought on the presentation of the item.
