There’s something about Lagos heat that exposes your skincare routine for what it really is. One minute your skin is fine, the next you’re oily, slightly dehydrated, and wondering if your products are actually doing anything at all.
That was exactly where I was when I reached for the Skin1004 Centella Madagascar Ampoule, a product I had been introduced to via PR but hadn’t paid much attention to at first.
Skin1004 is a Korean Skincare brand that launched in 2012. According to their website, “Whatever touches the skin must be pure. Let us deliver to you the untouched nature and its purity to your skin, to help you discover your best skin.”
First Impressions and Description
The ampoule comes in 30ml, 55ml, and 100ml bottles, packaged in a clean glass bottle with a soft gold hue and a white dropper. It looks simple, but it will be aesthetically pleasing on your shelf.
The product itself has a golden hue in the bottle but appears colorless in the dropper.
The texture? Very watery.
And I mean run-down-your-face-before-you-blend-it-in watery.
At first, it was slightly annoying to work with, but after a few uses, I got used to it.
What It Claims vs Reality
The brand claims this ampoule helps to:
Soothe redness
Hydrate deeply
Support the skin barrier
From my experience:
Hydration – Yes, but in a light, refreshing way. This is not a heavy, long-lasting hydration that replaces your moisturizer. Think of it more as a quick drink of water for your skin.
Soothing effect – Subtle. I didn’t have significant redness to track, but it did feel calming, especially on days my skin felt slightly irritated.
Barrier support – This feels more like a maintenance product than a repair treatment.
How It Performs
In humid Lagos weather, it feels incredibly lightweight and doesn’t add to the “my face is melting” feeling.
Under sunscreen, it absorbs quickly, no pilling, no stickiness.
It gives a soft, healthy glow. Not oily, not glass skin, just a fresh finish.
There’s something about how quickly it sinks in that makes it easy to reach for, especially when you’re in a hurry.
The Skin 1004 Centella Ampoule Ingredients
Key ingredients include:
Centella Asiatica Extract: known for calming and soothing the skin
Panthenol: helps with hydration and barrier support
Sodium Hyaluronate: attracts moisture to the skin
The formula is minimal, which explains why it layers easily with other products.
I’ll be honest that I wasn’t very consistent at first. I used it on alternate days, then eventually used it daily (morning and night), and that’s when I appreciated it more.
The immediate glow after application? Love.
That quick, plump, hydrated look? Even better.
It’s the kind of product that makes your skin look good instantly, even if it’s not doing anything dramatic long-term.
Pros
Lightweight and perfect for humid weather
Absorbs quickly with no sticky residue
Beginner-friendly and easy to layer
Comes in different sizes for flexibility
Cons
It can be hard to find, depending on your location
Very basic—may feel underwhelming if you want targeted results
Not suitable if your focus is on hyperpigmentation or acne treatment
Who Should Try This
If your skin feels dehydrated but you hate heavy products
If you’re trying to simplify your routine
If your skin is in a “let me not stress it” phase
Who Should Skip It
If you’re targeting acne scars or hyperpigmentation
If you prefer active-heavy skincare with visible transformation
If you want one product to do everything
FAQs
Does it brighten the skin? Not quite. This is more of a hydration and soothing product than a brightening one, and I like that the brand doesn’t overpromise.
Is it safe for everyday use? Yes, it’s gentle enough for daily use, both morning and night.
Can you mix it with actives? Yes. Its minimal formula makes it easy to pair with other active ingredients.
What skin type benefits from it?
Every skin type!
If you’re not sure what your skin type is, I’ve got you covered with this detailed post
I got mine from Shop With Teeka, but you can also check trusted skincare vendors. If you’re outside Nigeria, platforms like Amazon, Ulta, Sephora, or the brand’s official website are good options.
Final Verdict
I’d rate this a solid 9/10 for what it is.
But here’s the thing, I don’t see myself repurchasing it anytime soon.
Not because it’s bad, but because my current skin concerns need something more targeted and active-focused.
This feels like a supporting character in a routine and not the main act.
As an oily and acne-prone babe, finding the best moisturizer can be a hassle, which is why including an article for top moisturizers for oily skin was on my “to-write” list!
Many people think oily skin doesn’t need moisture, but skipping moisturizer can actually lead to even more oil production. Are you tired of moisturizers that leave your skin feeling greasy or cause breakouts?
In this video, I’m breaking down the five best moisturisers for oily skin that provide hydration without feeling overwhelming. Whether you have acne-prone skin, combination skin, or want a fresh, matte finish, I’ve tested and reviewed some of the most popular and dermatologist-recommended options just for you!
What’s in this video?
In-depth reviews of five top-rated moisturizers for oily skin
Texture, absorption, and finish breakdown
Honest pros & cons for each product.
PS- Part two is also up on the blog, so check it out for more options.
Have you tried any of these moisturizers? Let me know your thoughts in the comments! I’d love to hear what works for your skin type—and if I missed any of your faves, drop them below.
Please subscribe and leave a thumbs up if you enjoyed this video.
Are you struggling with oily skin and can’t find the right moisturizer?
In this video, I share 5 of the best moisturizers for oily skin (part 2) — breaking down the pros and cons of each so you know exactly which one will work for your skin type. From lightweight gels to hydrating creams, these moisturizers are non-greasy, oil-free, and perfect for anyone battling shine, breakouts, or clogged pores.
Products mentioned:
1. Purito Panthenol Cream – soothing and barrier-strengthening
2. Neutrogena Grapefruit Moisturizer – fresh and oil-controlling
3. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel Cream – lightweight hydration with hyaluronic acid
4. Isntree Green Tea Emulsion – antioxidant-rich and calming
5. AC Oil Free Gel –not overwhelming and breakout-friendly
Whether you have acne-prone skin, combo skin, or want a moisturizer that won’t make you greasy by noon, these picks will help keep your skin balanced and healthy.
PS; For full disclosure, this is a sponsored post, and my affiliate disclaimer assures you that whichever brand you come across on my blog is trustworthy!
For the longest time, I had read raves about a retinol night routine. If you’re a skincare enthusiast, then the retinol ingredient isn’t new to you. Scroll through SkincareTok, and you’ll find different takes and reviews about the variants of retinol, like tretinoin, adapalene, retinaldehyde, etc.
Frankly, it can be overwhelming, especially if you’re just starting. That’s where your favourite beauty doctor comes in! Yes, I’m referring to me, lol!
At the end of this post, there is a section for frequently asked questions about the use of retinol. It gives you a better understanding of this ingredient and makes it less ambiguous.
Retinol is the most researched ingredient in skincare and for a good reason. It has been found to have various benefits for the skin.
From reducing fine lines and wrinkles to improving skin tone and texture. The most exciting benefit of retinol is its stimulation of collagen production.
As we age, our skin’s ability to generate collagen reduces, hence the sagging effect older skin has. In other words, retinol improves the overall appearance of the skin. Some people have termed it an anti-ageing ingredient due to its many researched benefits.
Starting retinol for me involved asking questions, reading lots of reviews and moving beyond my fear of purging.
According to Dr Deanne Robinson in Healthline, purging refers to when the skin’s cell turnover speeds up due to using an active ingredient. This leads to more skin shedding and, wait for it- excess sebum and a pimple or two (or more, yikes!)The long-term effect is to reveal clearer and younger skin.
Once I moved past the fear of introducing retinol into my skincare routine by weighing the benefits with the risk, the next step was finding the product.
I got my hands on the retinol range from Neutriherbs. Thankfully, it had the whole making of a retinol night routine with four skincare products which were:
Cleanser
Toner
Serum &
Moisturiser.
While retinol is included in all these products, was it worth the hype for me?
Let’s get a closer look!
PS: My retinol night routine was done for three weeks. It’s typically advised to use an ingredient for up to 4 weeks to get the best results, but I wanted to share this as soon as possible.
My Retinol Night Routine Steps
Neutriherbs Pro-Retinol Cleanser
First impression
The retinol cleanser comes in a pristine white and purple tube with a silver cap. It claims to cleanse, remove impurities and excess sebum gently.
The texture is almost creamy with a sticky feel and has a pearly white colour.
While it does not have a particular fragrance, I noticed a slight scent that I can’t describe but is not overwhelming. The good thing about the texture of this cleanser is that a little goes a long way, so it’s worth the cost.
According to their website, this cleanser “is amazing at gently removing oil, dirt, impurities, and makeup trapped in your pores, leaving skin feeling fresh, clean and soft without over-drying. The Retinol cleanser works gently without stripping your skin of its natural oils as it was designed to be gentle and moisturizing.”
My experience
For my retinol night routine, I use this cleanser only at night. True to its claims, it is pretty gentle and moisturises my skin. It took a while for me to get used to the creamy feel of the product. It was also a relief to find that my skin didn’t feel stripped after washing, as they claimed.
Even though there are no specifications for when the cleanser should be used, I used it during my night routine because retinol is part of the ingredients. It’s also safe for daily use as the concentration of retinol in the cleanser is not high enough to cause any irritation.
How to Use the Retinol Cleanser
Apply directly to palms and straight to a wet face.
Rub in circular motions for 30-60 seconds.
Rinse off with cold or lukewarm water
You can use this cleanser every night, even on non-retinol nights
My verdict
This cleanser would be an 8/10 for me. It is gentle enough to be used daily, has a non-stripping effect and does an excellent job at cleansing.
Neutriherbs Pro-Retinol Toner
First impression
The first time I saw this toner on Instagram, I was sceptical. While I’m familiar with hydrating and exfoliating toners, I had never seen or tried one with retinol as its star ingredient.
The first thing that hits me is consistency in packaging. The product comes in a transparent 100ml purple plastic container and a white cap.
I love the tiny stopper at the in-hole opening, which would prevent the spilling of the product.
The product is transparent, and its texture is thicker than regular toners but still lightweight. It also doesn’t have a distinct fragrance.
From the ingredient list, it’s good to see that it contains retinol and tranexamic acid, panthenol, hyaluronic acid and peptides. These ingredients, in a nutshell, help improve the skin’s hydration, elasticity, target dark spots (tranexamic acid) and a better overall appearance.
According to their website, the retinol toner “ gives this natural hydrated glow, firms and makes skin instantly look plumper with less sign of ageing… It won’t dry out your skin while making your face feel fresh, tight, luminous, clean and very soft after use.”
My experience
This toner has a hydrating feel that is true to its claims. My face would feel plump and soft after use, and there were no signs of irritation or stinging. I cannot attest to the claim of fewer signs of ageing just from its use.
On the product’s details, it is recommended to use a cotton pad, but I love to use my palms to apply toners directly to my face.
If you use a cotton pad, don’t be scared when you notice dirt on the pad. That experience reduces as you continue to use the toner in your routine.
How to use
Apply the toner unto palms (or cotton pads)
Apply on the face in circular motions from the inside to the outside.
Allow face dry before applying the serum
My Verdict
I’ll give this a 7/10. I think it’s an excellent addition to my retinol night routine, but I could do without it. The score covers the thoughtful packaging, great texture, and hydrating feel it leaves on my skin.
Neutriherbs Retinol Serum
First impression
The retinol serum is where most of the retinol concentration is at. It comes in an opaque 30 ml bottle with a stopper. The serum bottle has a white and purple wrapper with the text in purple.
It contains vitamin E, which is an antioxidant. That means asides from the retinol in this serum, there is also a skin barrier support ingredient.
The serum has a slightly runny texture and no distinct fragrance too. There are also directions on the body which is always a win for me!
On application, it has a cool feel to it. This serum is also very lightweight, and I especially loved how my skin always felt in the morning after my retinol routine- almost as if it felt smoother. That would be true to its claims of unclogging the pores and making the skin feel firmer.
The good thing about this serum is that it comes in a 0.05% concentration of retinol which is beginner friendly!
I recommend this serum if you get any product from this retinol range!
How to use
*Please patch test before use.
Take 2-3 pumps.
Apply on the dry face (after the toner or cleanser).
Wait till it dries before moving on to the final step.
My verdict
This is a 9/10 for me. The low concentration, lightweight texture and non-irritating features make it a recommended product, especially for beginners!
Neutriherbs Retinol Cream for Acne and Anti-aging
First impression
The retinol moisturiser is my favourite packaged product in this series. I say so because the ease of application is superb; it has a lush texture and gives my face a glow after use.
It comes in a 50 ml jar with a high-pressure pump. That allows you to squeeze out the product without getting your fingers in.
Like the serum, it also has some instructions for use on the back of the product.
According to the website, the retinol cream “ delivers the highest concentration of Retinol (Vitamin A) deep into the skin’s surface quickly and effectively to help renew and rejuvenate your skin… It also supports natural collagen production and faster cell turnover to make skin feel smoother, healthy and young looking visible.”
My Experience
I loved the creamy texture of my skin. On the first night, my skin felt “overwhelmed” by the texture, but that got better as I continued to use it.
I experimented with this moisturiser on a different night to see if it made any difference. True to its claims, it absorbed into my skin and gave me this glazed doughnut finish. The best part was how supple my face felt in the morning after use.
How to use
After the retinol serum, take a pump of the moisturiser
Rub in circular motions, and do not forget your neck and ears.
I took some pictures during my use to ascertain if there were any changes or not. One thing I noticed was my skin felt firmer and less textured.
While there are arguments about retinol fading hyperpigmentation, some studies show that retinoids, in combination with hyperpigmentation fighters, are more effective.
I also noticed some flakiness around my jawlines by the second week, and I had some new breakouts on my face. While that was annoying, it wasn’t surprising considering the side effects of retinol. These effects calmed down by the following week.
Overall, this range gives a great start to anyone who feels overwhelmed about starting with retinol, and I look forward to how my skin looks with consistent use.
Frequently Asked Questions about Retinol
Why is retinol used at night?
Retinol makes the skin more sensitive to sunlight. Using it at night minimises the risk of irritation and sun damage. This is also one of the reasons you can not do without sunscreen when incorporating retinol into your skincare routine.
How to introduce retinol into your skincare routine
It’s essential to introduce retinol gradually into your skincare routine. Experts recommend once a week and working your way upward. This gives your skin time to adjust to the concentration of the ingredients and minimise irritation.
The Neutriherbs retinol serum has a low concentration, so start with two times a week with the instructions on the body and gradually increase the frequency of use.
PS: If you have concerns or questions about incorporating retinol into your skincare routine, please consult an esthetician or dermatologist.
Where does retinol go in a skincare routine?
Retinol is typically used at night, after cleansing and toning (optional), but before moisturizing. This helps it work effectively without interactions with other active ingredients.
There is also this retinol “sandwich” method, which means applying a lightweight moisturiser before a retinol cream or serum and then finishing with your moisturiser. This is to minimize the chances of irritation from the retinol.
I haven’t tried that for myself, but if you have sensitive skin, that would be something to try.
Side effects of using retinol
As I mentioned in my overall experience, retinol has some side effects. From “purging” to dryness and flakiness. It’s nothing to be worried about with adequate moisturising and spf to help the skin barrier.
It’s just the nature of this ingredient, so it’s best to be prepared.
In the long run, you’ll be glad you incorporated it into your routine.
Do you have a retinol night routine?
Would you like to try this retinol range?
Share with me in the comments!
Neutriherbs is a skincare brand founded in 2011. They believe that “just like the inner body needs food and medicine to grow and stay healthy, the outer body (skin) needs unique treatments to keep it nourished and refreshed.“
Check out their Instagram for all their product ranges.
PS; For full disclosure, this is a sponsored guest post, and my affiliate disclaimer assures you that which ever brand you come across on my blog is trustworthy!
The essential and underrated body care ingredient we overlook is body lotions. Body lotions can make all the difference to achieve clear, glowing, even-toned, smoother and firmer skin.
That being said, are you currently using the right one for your skin when it comes to body lotions?
If your body care isn’t giving you desired results, perhaps it’s time to try something new.
Neutriherbs recently launched its newest range of body lotions. Before we dive into this, here are three reasons you need body lotions in your routine:
1. Hydration and Moisture
If you’ve ever wondered why someone’s skin feels soft and supple to touch, body lotions are behind that. They are essential for maintaining proper skin hydration and moisture levels. These help prevent dryness, flakiness, and itching, ensuring smooth and supple skin.
2. Repair and Nourishment
Quality body lotions are formulated with vitamins, antioxidants, and other nourishing ingredients. These ingredients help repair damaged skin, promote cell regeneration, and protect against environmental pollutants, thus leaving the skin healthier.
3. An Improved Skin Appearance
Regular use of body lotions can improve the skin’s overall appearance, reducing the visibility of fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven texture. With various scents and textures available, body lotions provide a luxurious and aromatic self-care experience, making skincare routines enjoyable and rewarding.
Whether you’re looking for a body lotion to help with anti-aging, sagging or dry or dull skin, they have three brand new body lotions with honest reviews to help you level up your body care and achieve your dream skin.
If you want youthful skin below the neck, then this is the body lotion for you. This Collagen lotion combines synthesized peptide complex with omega fatty acid essential to get it into the deeper layers of the skin. This increases collagen production for firmer, more youthful-looking skin within weeks.
It also includes vitamins and herbs like caviar extract with anti-aging potential. The light scent and addition of aloe and camellia sinensis make it a lotion you’ll reach for daily.
Verified Customer Review
"Actually, I bought it for my mum, because of her age. The wrinkles on her chest are cleared and her skin lookstop notch...Thank you Neutriherbs!" - Sonia A
As the name implies, this body lotion is targeted to brighten and glow. It was formulated with high-performance ingredients like vitamin C, niacinamide and ferulic acid, which help restore brightness and fend off dullness. They work tirelessly together to give you even-toned and beautiful, radiant, glowing skin at the end of the day.
Verified Customer Review
"The lotion is superb! I love the way it brightened and made the skin look fresher within a week of my use. I regret not buying more than one bottle" - Victoria O
If you have dry, scaly skin or your skin is in need of repair, Neutriherbs’ latest Argan oil and shea butter body lotion is the way to go.
This body lotion features argan oil infused with shea butter, snow mushroom, and centella asiatica extract to create a lightweight, fast-absorbing, moisturizing formula.
These ingredients leave skin ultra-hydrated and soothed with a subtle glowy sheen. It’s definitely worth your try. Did we mention it has this warm & exotic scent too?
Just be ready for your skin to be wrapped in moisture and gently scented with a warm, luxurious fragrance!
Verified Customer Review
“I’ve had scaly, dull and dry skin and within 2 weeks of using the lotion, I noticed a difference. It rejuvenated my skin and this is actually the best lotion I've used so far! I've been getting compliments since my use”- Benita C
To get any of these body lotions from Neutriherbs, Click Here or contact them via 09078983734.
Neutriherbs is a skincare brand founded in 2011. They believe that “just like the inner body needs food and medicine to grow and stay healthy, the outer body (skin) needs special treatments to keep it nourished and refreshed.“
Check out their Instagram for all their product ranges.
In 2022, one of my goals for A Dash of Iruoma was to try outmore reputable Nigerian skincare brands. I realized that skincare in Nigeria is erroneously associated with skin bleaching. While that is a story for another day, it was my delight to see that some Nigerian skincare brands are doing a good job!
One Nigerian skincare brand to watch out for has to be Soapy Suds.
When I returned to IG from my unplanned hiatus in September, I started following more skincare creators and brands. This was helpful as I familiarized myself with the type of content that our audience resonated with and even what brands would like.
That was when I came across Soapy Suds.
Soapy Suds is a Nigerian skincare brand that creates simple and effective skincare products for healthy skin and a radiant and more even complexion.
I loved how engaging their Instagram stories were plus they engaged with my content in the sweetest way. One day, I pitched to them after a conversation with my sister.
It was the best news when they agreed to send a pr package and thankfully it was around the launch of new products from their brand. While I’ve reviewed some of them on IG and TikTok, they deserve a spot on the blog for you!
Products from Soapy Suds
My pr package came with 6 products and a thoughtful gift of chocolates!
The best part was how Ayo (the founder) ensured I got my package despite delays from the dispatch rider. She called intermittently just to be sure it arrived in good condition. That takes a lot of effort and it was so kind of her. Let’s get into the products, shall we?
An exfoliating cleanser is a multipurpose cleanser. This means it cleanses the face and also has ingredients like alpha hydroxyl acids (AHA) and beta-hydroxyl acids (AHA) that help clear off dead skin (exfoliate).
This sort of cleanser shouldn’t be used daily as over-exfoliating can irritate the skin and damage the skin barrier.
Back to the cleanser. It comes in a 120 ml white opaque plastic bottle with a pump head. It has a transparent cover with a brown and black paper design showing the ingredients like mandelic acid, lactic acid, and salicylic acid. There are also instructions on how to use it.
It has a mousse-like texture and didn’t sting my face upon application. Please note that I’ve also been alternating between it and a gentle cleanser since it’s exfoliating.
Is this worth your buy?
Yes if you’re after a gentle exfoliant in your routine.
The only con is you would need another cleanser because you can’t use this every day, but it makes for a good exfoliant so it’s a win-win depending on how you look at it.
INGREDIENTS as seen on the website:
Aqua (Distilled Water), Vegetable Glycerin, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Decyl Glucoside, Mandelic Acid, Lactic Acid, Pro Vitamin B5, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Extract, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Salicylic Acid, Polyquaternium 7, Sodium Citrate, Carica Papaya Fruit Extract, Allantoin, Disodium EDTA, Diazolidinyl Urea, Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate (Preservative).
Soapy Suds Milk “N” Honey Bar Soap
The next product in this package is the bar soap. It comes wrapped in a pale white wrapper and the classic brown tag. It’s shaped like a square with a chipped end and I love that the chipped corner has some holes like a honeycomb.
I had been using body washes and hadn’t used bar soap in ages so this was an interesting switch. The mild fragrance and after-effects on my skin were ones I looked forward to. Since it was two bars, I gave my sister one, and in her words: ‘The soap was beautiful on my skin, Iruoma!”
I would say that the convenience of liquid washes is better for me, especially in school where we have a public bathroom and I don’t particularly appreciate having to open soap dishes. That makes me hope they make a liquid wash with a formula this gentle!
Every product in this package was a star, but this essence toner was the boss! The reviews about this water gel were all over my IG feed and it was the product I even requested for PR when asked what I would like.
This toner did not disappoint! You know that I would never mince words about my experience with a product so trust me when I say this toner is a blessing!
While toners are not necessary for your skincare to be complete, having one that gives extra hydration is a win-win for your skin.
INGREDIENTS as seen on the website:
Water, Vegetable Glycerin, Snail Secretion Filtrate, Sodium Lactate, Propanediol, Pro Vitamin B5, Sodium Hyaluronate, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) extract, Allantoin, Disodium EDTA, Diazolidinyl Urea, Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate & Propylene Glycol (Preservative), FD&C pink.
It contains glycerin which is super hydrating and it was packaged in a transparent 100ml plastic with a beautiful functional nozzle that guarantees no spillage.
The Balm-to-milk cleansing balm was one of the new products to launch in October and I was thrilled to be among the influencers to try it first.
My regular makeup remover has been micellar water as I had been skeptical about trying cleansing oils or balms because of my skin type. The interesting fact is that oils actually do a better job at breaking the grime or dirt off your face so they’re excellent to be used by both oily or dry skin as a first cleanse.
Anyways, the first day I used it on my face, I became a believer in cleansing balms!
It has a rich creamy balm texture and all you need to do is rub it on dry palms and massage it onto your face for about 60 seconds.
Like the name, it emulsifies into a milky liquid on the face once water touches it and it doesn’t leave my face feeling greasy which was one of my concerns about using it.
This cleansing balm also left my face feeling non-stripped and I looked forward to my double cleansing at night to use it.
My favorite thing about it is the packaging. It’s a cute 60g jar with the classic white packaging of the brand and comes with a scop so you don’t dip your hand in the product.
Very thoughtful!
INGREDIENTS as seen on site:
Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Olea Europaea (Olive) Oil, Squalane, Emulsifying wax, Cetearyl Alcohol, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, Polysorbate 80, Hydrogenated Castor Oil, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Hippophae Rhamnoides (Sea buckthorn) fruit oil, Tocopherol.
PS -Micellar water is a multipurpose skin care product made using ingredients for cleansing like glycerin and purified water. It can be used as a first cleanse or to remove your makeup.
The Soapy Suds body oil was a breath of fresh air for me. I love using body oils and body butter so it’s no surprise I enjoyed my use of this product. The best part about this product is the fragrance and after-feel.
Most people do not like using oils on their skin, especially in humid areas, but this oil was formulated in a way that leaves your skin feeling supple, not clogged or greasy.
I mentioned the fragrance earlier on, but it deserves another mention. This body oil has the scent of vanilla mixed with tropical fruits or what i would say was candy-like. I enjoyed layering it with body lotion and my perfume.
This is my least explored product in the package and I honestly need to do better. The AHA serum is an exfoliating serum for the body. If you’re familiar with how we use physical exfoliants on the skin like body scrubs and glove sponges? That’s the function of this serum but think of it as a more gentle approach to the skin.
I used this a couple of times in school and haven’t used my glove sponge for exfoliating because after use my skin feels smoother. Afterward, I layer it with body lotion and body oil.
INGREDIENTS as seen on the website: Aqua (Distilled Water), Vegetable Glycerin, Lactic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Propylene Glycol, Kojic Acid, Alpha Arbutin, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Extract, Allantoin, Sodium Hydroxide (PH adjuster) Sodium Citrate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Diazolidinyl Urea, Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate (Preservative), Disodium EDTA, Sodium Metabisulfite, FD&C Orange.
As we advance this new year, I intend to use it consistently so as to give a more robust review of my experience with it. Despite my inconsistency, I’ve had a pleasant experience!
NB- The body serum is meant to be used at night and due to its ingredients. It’s best used 3 times a week for the first 3 weeks of use as recommended on the website.
Is it worth your buy?
I would say yes especially if you want to try something different for your body care routine.
Save image on Pinterest
Soapy Suds is definitely one Nigerian skincare brand to look out for, and I hope they keep up the good work of not just making effective skincare, but educating Nigerians on healthy skincare habits.
Have you tried any products from Soapy Suds? Would you like to try them? What’s your favorite Nigerian skincare brand currently? Please share with mein the comments.
First of all, happy new month. I mean can you believe it’s December already? Technically, it’s been over a week but who’s counting?
Welcome back here! The last time I wrote a skincare empties post, I was knee-deep in the school’s resumption and that phase was so stressful. It is still stressful, but not as bad as then.
Thankfully, I’m in the final rotation of my final year of med school and I can’t wait for the 3 months to be over.
Let’s get back here before I digress. November’s skincare empties are 6 skincare products. I have shared reviews of most of them on the blog. They have been linked as well for your ease and trust me to not gatekeep any details.
Shall we?
This post contains affiliate links which means I may get a commission if you make a purchase via the links at no cost to you. Thank you for supporting my blog!
Dove Nourishing Secrets Glowing Ritual Body Lotion
What is it?
The Dove replenishing glow ritual body lotion is a body moisturizer. I got this skincare product for the sake of experimenting with more body lotions in my body care routine.
PS- Read about my body care routine and the helpful hack I use for my body lotion.
My Experience
This body lotion was very lightweight and I enjoyed that about it. It also had a subtle fragrance to it that wasn’t overwhelming. The only thing I didn’t enjoy was how long I had to wait for it to seep into my skin before going in with a body butter or body oil.
Other than that, it left my skin feeling hydrated and soft!
Price
It ranges from 2100-3000 naira depending on the store you get it from. I got mine from a supermarket close to home.
I would repurchase this body lotion if I wasn’t so eager to try out new body care products. For now, my experiment continues as there are so many body lotions I want to try on my list.
Bondi sands Broad Spectrum SPF 50
What is it?
A rich sunscreen lotion with broad spectrum coverage and 150ml in size. I had a love-hate relationship with this sunscreen and shared all my thoughts in this detailed post.
My Experience
My favorite thing about this sunscreen is how it moisturized my skin too. The ingredients point to that, but getting the experience is top-notch. It also didn’t leave a white cast which makes sense as it’s a chemical sunscreen. The only issue I had with it was how greasy my skin was after use, so I believe dry skin types would enjoy this. Nonetheless, don’t knock it off till you try it out.
I would rate this a 7/10 because of how it was for my skin type. It also left no white cast for me but my face appeared too greasy.
Face Facts Collagen and Q10 Replenishing Day cream
What is it?
The Face fact collagen day cream is a moisturizer designed for the day. I’m still in the camp that doesn’t feel you should stress with day cream and night creams except you have the budget for it, or if you want something specific to your skin concerns.
My Experience
The creamy texture was overwhelming for my oily skin the first time I applied it so I reduced the quantity subsequently.
Other than that, I wouldn’t say it did anything else except moisturize my skin. At a point, I used this moisturizer at night and noticed it was not as rich as the night one, which makes sense as it is suited for daytime.
Price
1800 on Paxo beauty (their official distributor in Nigeria)
Via their Face Facts website if you’re outside Nigeria.
Verdict
It did its job, but it is not a skincare product I would repurchase just yet. If you’re on a budget, then it is a good one to try, but that means you would have to get the night cream as well.
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Face Facts Collagen and Q10 Replenishing Night cream
What is it?
The face facts collagen night cream has to be one of those skincare products that you have little expectation of and they surprise you.
This came together with the day cream and
My Experience
This night cream has to be one of the best moisturizers I have applied at night. It comes close to the hyaluronic acid cream for me. The rich texture just seals in the moisture from my toner, leaving my face feeling plump and hydrated.
I used it during the day once to compare and it felt heavy under my sunscreen so I stuck to only using it at night.
Price
1800 on Paxobeauty (their official distributor in Nigeria). Get 10% off with IRUOMA10 from here.
Shop
You can get from paxobeauty as stated above or via their Face Facts website if you’re outside Nigeria.
Verdict
This is a moisturizer I would definitely buy, but currently, I prefer sticking to one moisturizer for morning and night for my skin type. If you love to use a day and night cream, then this would be a great try!
TIAM Vita B3 Source Serum
What is it?
The Tiam Vita B3 serum is one with lots of fans! In my last post, I shared my experience in detail with this serum from the benefits of niacinamide to my expectations and use of it.
Price
Between 7000-10,000 naira depending on the shop. I got mine for 6950 naira on @beautybydaz
Shop
Shop on Amazon
Verdict
I loved the way my skin texture was with this product and while it doesn’t fade hyperpigmentation as fast as I would love, it’s worth restocking.
TIAM Cleanser
What is it?
This cleanser has to be among my most raved and loved products this 2022. It is such a fave that I got my mum, sister, and a close friend hooked, and they all love it! You guys can see my influencing career is not even joking.
MY EXPERIENCE
Price
I got mine for about 4,650 naira online, but it ranges from 4900-6000 naira depending on the store.
Shop
It is currently in stock where I got mine. Check here.
Verdict
This cleanser is a fave and I honestly don’t have anything more to add that isn’t already in this review.
This Tiam Vita B3 source review is one I have been putting off for so long.
There’s this trend on TikTok for skin care products where you tell a long-awaited product “You better fix my life you little shit”. I made one for this k-beauty fave and while it didn’t fix my life, it’s worth checking out!
Before I do so, let’s talk about the main ingredient in this serum- Niacinamide.
Benefits of Niacinamide
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) is a versatile water-soluble vitamin that is raved about in skincare, and for good causes. Its benefits include:
Visibly minimizing enlarged pores and improving uneven skin tone as it helps combat cellular damage as an anti-oxidant.
It’s also compatible with almost all skincare ingredients so it can pair well with your skincare products that contain retinol, hyaluronic acid, glycerin, etc.
It helps the skin’s capacity for producing ceramides which strengthen the skin barrier and keeps it moisturized.
The best part for me is how this ingredient does well for all skin types.
It has anti-inflammatory properties, so it can help with acne-prone skin.
I read that if Niacinamide is used in high concentrations, it can cause redness because it converts to Niacin so keep that in mind as well.
Now I hope you see why it’s such a loved ingredient in the skincare community. Let’s get into the TIAM Vita B3 source review then!
Packaging
The Tiam Vita B3 source comes in a yellow glass serum bottle with black and white markings on it. It’s so aesthetically pleasing but I was scared it would break. It’s also heavy.
Size
It’s a 40ml-sized serum. Most serums I’ve used are about 30ml so this is interesting.
Texture, smell, and color
It has a slightly viscous consistency with no fragrance and is transparent. It also leaves a sticky feeling after use that I feel indifferent about.
Claims/ Ingredients
According to TIAM’s website, the benefits of this serum include :
Brightening
Fading skin discoloration
Improving hyperpigmentation
The star ingredients are 10% Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide) and 2% Alpha Arbutin. The ingredient list is as follows:
The first was to improve my skin texture and the second was to see if it lived up to its claims for hyperpigmentation.
The first few days after using this serum, I noticed I was breaking out and it was my pre-period hormonal acne as blogger Cassie Daves mentioned it may cause purging for some people. That fizzled after a few days.
Afterward, between 3-4 weeks of using it, I kept getting compliments at home about how my skin looked healthy and radiant. I would say that it really helped with my texture and improved my pore appearance.
I also noticed it reduced my acne flare-outs during the period of use.
One thing this serum didn’t do for me was improve my hyperpigmentation compared to my experience with the Good Molecules discoloration-correcting serum. You can read my review really quickly here.
I have read reviews of people who shared how it helped with theirs, but it didn’t fulfill that for me.
Overall, it’s a good product to add to your routine, especially for its antioxidant benefits. If you are after something for hyperpigmentation, it’s best to get other fighters to use in conjunction with this serum.
How I used it
I used the Tiam vita b3 source only in the evenings the first week I got it, then continued to both day and night, after my toner.
The Tiam Vita b3 source is worth getting if you need an anti-oxidant like Niacinamide in your routine. Also, skincare can be personal and who knows if it would be helpful for your hyperpigmentation?
I would definitely be repurchasing for the anti-oxidant benefits.
