Many have envied the flawless and translucent skin of Korean women. Do you want to know the secret of achieving good glowing skin? Well, it does not come by being lazy...
I'm going to introduce you, Korea's No1 Luxury Skincare brand- Sulwhasoo.
One of the oldest beauty brands to come out of South Korea, Sulwhasoo was founded in 1967 by its company’s head, Sung Whan Suh. The skincare system he developed is based on Korean herbal medicines – it blends oriental medicinal herbs drawn from ancient wisdom of the “Sang-seng” philosophy which is based on balancing the inner energies of the skin to produce a nourished healthy complexion.
In today's post, i will be reviewing on Sulwhasoo// Essential line: First Care Activating Serum. Essential line consists of 6 items such as the First Care Activating Serum, Essential Balancing Water, Essential Balancing Emulsion, Essential Rejuvenating Eye Cream, Essential Firming cream and Overnight Vitalizing Mask.
Formulated with Korean Medicinal Herbs, this essential regimen boosting serum assures optimal skin care results, promoting balance and replenishing essential moisture and nutrients. Membranous Milk-vetch promotes natural skin circulation and Dwarf Lily turf and Licorice boost synergy among herbal extracts to restore skin’s natural healthy radiance. Absorbing instantly and deep within the skin, this serum leaves the skin soft, smooth and supple, prepares skin to receive treatment and boosts the efficacy of skin care used throughout the regimen.
The pump dispenser is great, just the way i like it! It's easy to handle and dispense just the right amount of product in a sanitary manner.
After facial wash in the morning and evening, pump about 2times onto palm and apply with finger tips. Gently wrap the face and neck with hands to help absorption of the product.
From the picture below, you can see a clear liquid with a brownish tinge. It has a slight gel-like texture to it however absorption into the skin is quick and easy despite of the thicker consistency. There is a faint herbal smell. It isn’t unpleasant, at least not to my nose. I love the scent as i find it relaxing. If you are comfortable with strong herbal, medicinal scents of Chinese herbs like ginseng, then you will be fine with it. If you aren’t then you may have to take some time to get used to the scent and enjoy the experience of lathering it on your skin.
Ingredients
All of Sulwhasoo’s ingredients are natural ingredients native to Korea and raised through a meticulous process on their very own Amorepacific herb farm under the most excellent conditions. Some key ingredients that make Sulwhasoo so beneficial and effective:
Ginseng
In Korean history, young ladies in noble families would bathe in ginseng water before their wedding to refine their skin bright and pure. They also enjoyed fresh-drawn ginseng tea to prevent freckles and fine lines. Saponin is known for its effect in increasing level of immunity, regeneration, anti-aging, and antioxidant effects. The reason why Korean Ginseng is more famous than others is that it has twice as many types of saponin and about 40% more content with excellent effect. Sulwhasoo uses a 4-year old Ginseng, which known to have the highest saponin content. Sulwhasoo created matchless material after a long research on Ginseng. Sulwhasoo also researches on the effect of Ginseng’s various parts, such as its leaves, fruits, and roots to apply into the products.
Solomonseal: Treats dryness and improves skin resilience.
Rehmannia: Promotes circulation, treats age-spots and dullness, and increases hydration.
White Lily: Refines and brightens skin.
Chinese Peony: Makes your treatment anti-inflammatory.
East Indian Lotus: Moisturizes and promotes circulation, and restores healthy skin.
Skincare Tips
The philosophy behind Korean skincare is to layer products and seal them in. Ensuring that the skin properly moisturized, and products are applied in order of their density- from the thinnest to the thickest. My skincare repertoire include: face cleansing oil, gentle roaming face wash, toner, Serum, Essence, Lotion, sleeping pack and sheet mask. Some of which are not daily products, they are used only in the evening. Once it becomes part of your regime, it really doesn't take much time at all! I use Sulwhasoo First Care Activating Serum in the morning too. I would start with toner->Serum->Essence and lastly lotion.
Sulwhasoo's first care activating serum is a good choice for most skin types. However, some people may suffer breakouts when they first start using this product because their skin is unfamiliar with the herbal ingredients. All should be settled within a fortnight, and visible results will be revealed within a month.
For my experience, i do not suffer any breakouts. I have started using this for weeks, and i'm loving it! It's hydrating and my skin does feel less dry, smooth and subtle.
Admittedly to say, Sulwhasoo is indeed expensive. But if you’re looking for an indulgent delight that delivers some beautiful results, this is absolutely worth the price.
Store locator//Singapore:Tangs Orchard, Tangs Vivo City, Takashimaya Department Store and Robinson Orchard
Store locator// South Korea: Seoul, Kyunggido, Daejun, Daegu, Gwangju,Busan and Jejudo
Store locator// Taiwan: Pacific SOGO Department Store, Zhongxiao Museum, Taipei and Taichung Taichung SOGO Department Store
Sulwhasoo is also available in USA, China, Hong Kong, Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam and Indonesia.
Thanks for reading~
I'll be reviewing on the next product- Essential Balancing Water, do follow-up if you are keen to know more :)
