Ichi Pestano: February 2015

Another 2-in-1 post! I'm not yet done with the reviews on the products from my Korean Haul part 2, but I thought of starting the other batch. So here it is.

Ever since I've tried a moisturizer from the French brand, Yves Rocher, I have been interested in their other products from skincare to makeup. It's super convenient to shop because everything is organized and grouped by skin type. Every time I visit the store, I'm tempted to grab plenty of stuff.

So speaking of the first product I've tried, which I loved with all of my heart, I learned that it's from their previous line called Sebo Specific. Though they still have stocks of Ultra Mat. They created a new one called Sebo Vegetal, still targeting oily and combination skin. After running out of the moisturizer, the first thing that popped in my mind was to swing by the shop again and try the new version.

But things went a bit out of hand and I ended up buying 2 products from the matifying line and another one, which was on supah sale! You've probably seen it in this Just In post.

As mentioned, Sebo Vegetal is Yves Rocher's family of face care products that's specifically for oily and combination skin type. So, if you have a very shiny T-zone or a greasy face in general, this is the skincare line for you.

The key botanical ingredient used is Baikal Powder which is extracted from Scutellaria (skullcap plant) root.

Let's start with the toner.

As you can see, this is in a form of Micellar water. For the skincare savvies out there, you've probably heard of it. It is basically a very gentle cleanser (even more gentle than the wipe ones) that removes makeup, excess sebum and other impurities.

A lot of companies offer them as a toner as well because it acts as a backup for your facial wash. A cotton pad soaked with toner, or in this case, micellar water helps get rid of any residue left from washing your face.

Alternatively, you can use it alone if you want to clean your face. Maybe use a separate makeup remover for the stubborn waterproof mascara or eyeliner.

Okay, maybe you're confused by now. Let me explain it further.

Instead of cleansing your face with your regular facial wash to remove dirt and makeup and stripping your skin's natural moisture in the process, micellar water just dissolves the unwanted particles without any possible irritation, leaving the skin hydrated and fresh.

Now, Purifying Micellar Water 2 in 1 does the same exact job as described above and at the same time, tones the skin, brings back skin's balance and eliminates excess sebum.

What I love about it:

affordable - 495 php (200ml)
doesn't contain too much chemicals
fresh scent
no irritation, breakout or redness after using
does not sting
safe to use around the eye area because it's very gentle
removes makeup residue very well
does not cause botox-tight feeling, keeps the skin's natural moisture
can be used as on-the-go face cleanser
removes excess sebum

Watch-out:

does not control oil throughout the day
not that effective in terms of reducing pore size (except if you do your regular exfoliation)
not that effective in terms of unclogging pores (it just cleanses the surface)

Now, moving on to the moisturizer.

The product description on the site says:

"Keep your skin matified all day! This Matifying Gel Cream absorbs excess sebum and effectively hydrates skin for a full 24 hours*. The purifying power of Baikal powder restores freshness and matifies the skin texture of combination to oily skin.

Result: skin is no longer suffocated but is fresh and shine-free. Once again, it breathes and regains its beauty."

What I love about it:

very lightweight - perfect as a day moisturizer
fresh scent
"melts" and glides onto skin beautifully
comes in tube packaging (the previous version comes in a jar)
easily absorbed
contains salicylic acid
does not feel sticky under humid weather
no irritation, breakout or itchiness
acts as a nice base for makeup
smoothens the skin

Watch-out:

the "matte complexion all day long, no touch-ups necessary" claim doesn't work for me - for some reason, I find Ultra Mat more effective
no SPF
hydrates the skin, but doesn't make it really supple and bouncy - I recommend using a separate moisturizer to be used at night
a little bit on the expensive side - 695 php for 50 ml tube (I have to double check the price, but I think it's above 500)

Truth is, I have mixed feelings about these Sebo Vegetal duo. I've been using this combo for two months now and I haven't noticed any improvement on my skin, let alone on my T-zone's oiliness. I can't really tell if it's because weather's hotter now compared before when I was still using Ultra Mat.

Nevertheless, I know for sure that the center of my face starts to appear shiny in like 4 to 5 hours after doing my skincare routine and makeup. Currently, I have to touch up once or twice throughout the day using my face powder, or by wiping my t-zone with tissue. More frequently if my pores are all clogged. Sad.

That being said, I still don't want to toss these products away. Yes, I'm still using them but I'm also starting to look for a new toner and moisturizer.

I know I can still make the most out of the micellar water as a face cleanser. I can also transfer it to a smaller bottle and bring it with me when I travel. It's a nice product to use when I need to freshen up. I also don't have to buy extra face towelettes. Yea!

As for the moisturizer, I'll just continue to use it until I have a new one. I have a little amount left anyway, so might as well consume it entirely.

What do you think?

By the way, they do have promotions very often so pay them a visit. Here in the metro, you can find them in Trinoma and SM Aura. :)

Like Yves Rocher on Facebook.

your sweetest drug,