What are Retinoids?

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A Guy’s Guide to Skincare

Here's an easy-to-follow guide to follow for dads, brothers, boyfriends, or husbands who have generally oily and resilient skin and find skincare intimidating! The Routine 1. Don't skip the AM / PM cleanse. - Isntree Onion Newpair Cleansing Foam 2. Exfoliate at least twice a week. - Isntree Chestnut BHA 2% Liquid 3. Apply a multitasking serum. - Glow Monster Centella Essence 4. Protect with SPF Daily. - Iunik Centella Calming Daily Sunscreen

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New Year, Same Healthy Skin ✨

Perfect Healthy skin is built on consistency. Here's your reminder to be consistent and incorporate these steps into your 2024 skincare routine ✨ 1. Double cleansing every night. Isntree C-Niacin Toning Ampoule - to lighten up dull skin. 2. Wearing sunscreen daily. Beauty of Joseon Matte Sun Stick: Mugwort + Camelia - for easy reapplication. 3. Exfoliating weekly. Isntree Chestnut BHA 0.9% Clear Toner - to smoothen of rough skin. 4. Applying vitamin C every morning. Isntree C-Niacin Toning Ampoule - to lighten up dull skin.

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Morning-After-Retinoid Routine

Skin feeling sensitive post-retinoid? Here's an easy routine to follow for your after-care! Step 1: Mild Cleanser Gentle, non-stripping, and good for daily use cleansers Axis-Y Sunday Morning Refreshing Cleansing Foam Isntree Green Tea Fresh Cleanser Step 2: Moisturizer For dry KAINE Vegan Youth Collagen Cream For oily / combination Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Aqua Gel Cream Step 3: Mild Cleanser Ultra-safe and soothing physical formula! Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Natural Sun Cream

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Clean your pores with our favorite exfoliants

Skin Game Changers Exfoliating twice or thrice a week can yield numerous benefits for your skin! While chemical exfoliants can be used more regularly, physical ones can be done at least once, depending on how sensitive your skin is.  Unclogs pores Manages acne and breakouts Helps with product absorption Evens skin tone Boosts circulation  Add-Ons To Your Routine Level up your current routine by adding a physical or a chemical exfoliator.  Let’s Get Physical 💆🏻‍♀️ Involves physical abrasion in the form of small granules or beads and usually shows instant results post-exfoliation. Isntree Mugwort Calming Clay Mask Axis-Y Pore Clarifying Wash Off Pack Beauty of Joseon Red Bean Refreshing Pore Mask It’s All Chemical ⚗️ Dissolves the glue that holds dead skin cells together in the form of peels, serums, cleansers, or toners, and seeps into the deep layer of the skin for longer-lasting results Isntree 8% Chestnut AHA Clear Essence Isntree 0.9% Chestnut BHA Clear Toner Axis-Y PHA Resurfacing Glow Peel Beauty of Joseon Green Plum Refreshing Toner: AHA + BHA

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Unlikely Culprits

Here are some of the most common breakout triggers that we often overlook! HOW IS IT A TRIGGER? FLOURIDE If you’ve noticed small bumps around your mouth area, it could be due to the fluoride in your toothpaste! Try using fluoride-free toothpaste instead! SUPPLEMENTS Who would have thought! Some have reported breakouts from supplements like b-complex, biotin, glutathione and whey. Take a break from supplements! OVERCLEANSING Overcleansing can actually dehydrate your skin (prompting it to produce more oil) and damage the barrier (inviting more bacteria!) Stick to cleansing 2-3x a day and use oil strips if you’re oily! YOUR PHONE We take it with us everywhere, then mindlessly touch our faces or bring it to our cheeks, now you’ve got some bacteria transferred to your face! Sanitize your phone regularly! REFINED CARBS Excess refined carbs can cause an imbalance in your hormones and inflammation in the body, showing as painful pimples! Eat healthier! HAIR PRODUCTS This can seep down to our forehead or the sides of our faces. If you notice small pimples there then your hair products could be the reason! PILLOWCASES Oil (from your face / head) and dead skin cells can build up on your pillow and then transfer back to your face! Make sure you’re washing your pillow cases regularly! HEAT & SWEAT Some people are sensitive to their own sweat, causing small rash-like bumps after. Always wipe away sweat or workout in a cooler room! DAIRY Some studies (and personal anecdotes) show dairy may aggravate acne.  If you’re acne-prone try staying away from dairy for a few weeks! TOUCHING FACE For so many reasons (especially now) this is always a no! Wash your hands regularly! HEAVY MAKEUP Heavy makeup can exacerbate any current breakouts by making your skin feel ‘clogged’. Lessen makeup or double cleanse! EXPIRED PRODUCTS Expiration dates are there for a reason! Onece expired, preservatives in a product can no longer fend off bacteria, so you could be applying some unwanted bacteria. Dispose of them immediately and properly!

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NEW Red Bean Duo from Beauty of Joseon!

A New Mask and Moisturizer Duo By Beauty of Joseon Step 1 Red Bean Refreshing Pore Mask A soft clay mask for sensitive and acne-prone skin. It exfoliates and absorbs sebum without stripping your skin's natural oil and provides a cooling feeling.   30% Haenam Red Bean Extract + Kaolin A natural non-drying exfoliant.   Apply a generous layer on dry skin and rinse after 5-10 minutes with water. Step 2 Red Bean Water Gel A light gel moisturizer for oily skin. It provides moisture to oily skin with active sebum excretion, without causing clogged pores.    44% Red Bean Extract Helps with sebum absorption.   Use after the mask to replenish your skin's moisture and follow with sunscreen in the morning.

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DIY Skincare Debunked

DIY skincare isn't always bad. In fact, some DIY recipes can be great—but it's important to know what kind of product you're using before you start applying it to your skin. Here are some of the most common ones we see going around that you definitely should AVOID. 🙅 Key Disadvantages of DIY Skincare ⏰ Time Consuming - Prepping takes a lot more time than you think! 🦠 No Shelf Life - Cannot be stored for future use and requires the correct storage conditions to maintain sterility. 🍃 Natural ≠ More Effective - Since we cannot verify standard quality, efficacy, and safety of the ingredient, there’s no way to predict how it might affect your skin. 💧 PH Conditions Vary - Skincare products are formulated to have skin friendly pH. Even exfoliants are deliberately acidic to achieve safe home exfoliation. Common DIY Skincare Ingredients 🍋 Lemon Juice  Although it contains high levels of Vitamin C and AHA for brightening and exfoliation, lemon juice is very acidic. It can alter the skin’s acid mantle and weaken the natural moisture barrier, causing irritation, dehydration, and increased sensitivity to UV rays. Use these instead: Isntree C-Niacin Cream - For sunspots, uneven skin tone, and general dullness Axis-Y Dark Spot Correcting Glow Serum - Niacinamide-based for post-pimple marks (PIE or PIH)  KAINE Vita Drop Serum - A sensitive skin-safe Vitamin C serum  🪥 Toothpaste Toothpaste has been believed to be a hack for treating acne because of its antimicrobial properties. But this is outdated information! Since it’s formulated for teeth, it can be too strong for your skin, leading to dryness, irritation, and more inflammation – especially for sensitive skin. Use these instead: Micronized Benzoyl Peroxide 2.5% - Topical non-irritating anti-acne treatment COSRX Acne Pimple Master Patch - Hydrocolloid patches for emergency zits Isntree Spot Saver Mugwort Ampoule - Targets under-the-skin hormonal/cystic bumps  🍭 Sugar & Himalayan Salt Used for DIY exfoliation to deep cleanse and brighten skin, these two household ingredients can actually cause micro-tears in the skin’s surface, leading to long-term damages to your skin barrier. Use these instead:  Isntree 8% chestnut AHA Essence - Chemical exfoliant that addresses different skin concerns like clogged pores and dullness AXIS-Y Mugwort Pore Clarifying Mask  - Non-drying clay mask for gentle physical exfoliation  

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Good Bacteria for Healthy Skin?

Healthy skin starts with a balanced microbiome. The skin's surface is home to a diverse array of skin flora (microorganisms) that live in harmony to form our microbiome. It is our first line of defense against environmental aggressors and harmful invaders. A damaged microbiome may lead to dry, itchy, irritated, and dull skin. The Solution? Good Bacteria. Prebiotics Prebiotics are like food or fertilizer for good bacteria, helping microbes thrive. These include ingredients like seaweed, fatty acids, and polysaccharides. Certain prebiotics can help balance skin pH or support the skin’s barrier function. Plant extracts, fructose, plant glycerin, beta glucan, etc. Prebiotics Prebiotics are like food or fertilizer for good bacteria, helping microbes thrive. These include ingredients like seaweed, fatty acids, and polysaccharides. Certain prebiotics can help balance skin pH or support the skin’s barrier function. Plant extracts, fructose, plant glycerin, beta glucan, etc. Enter the Biome Line Axis-Y's solution to compromised skin barriers.  Step 1 Biome Comforting Infused Toner Step 2 Biome Radiating Intensified Essence Step 3 Biome Recharging Night Renewal Set

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Introducing Axis-Y's Biome Line

ay&me BIOME LINE This line was made to address the specific needs and preferences of the community based on their skin types, concerns, favorite / least favorite ingredients, packaging, and more. From that, a special biome blend of prebiotics and probiotics — without exfoliants or sensitizing ingredients — to optimize skin health was created as the signature formula in every product of Axis-Y’s ay&me line.  BIOME COMFORTING INFUSED TONER A luxurious toner formulated with prebiotics, probiotics and a soothing duo of centella and mugwort for a quick dose of skin nutrition. Main Ingredients: Mugwort - with antioxidant and antibacterial properties to help soothe the skin Special Biome Blend - improves overall skin texture for a healthy glow Centella - with anti-inflammatory properties to calm the skin BIOME RADIATING INTENSIFIED ESSENCE An antiaging powerhouse that targets dull and rough skin caused by water-oil imbalance. Main Ingredients: 73% Bifida Ferment Lysate - Anti-aging and ddresses dull and rough skin due to water-oil imbalance. Adenosine - A yeast-derived ingredient improves wrinkles and fine lines. BIOME RECHARGING NIGHT RENEWAL SET STEP 1 10 Panthenol Supporting Concentrate (Panthenol, Hyaluronic Acid, Ceramide) silky magnet droplet formula for better moisture retention STEP 2 Recharging Enhanced Night Balm thick, deeply hydrating, and plumping cream balm

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Wake Up Glowing With Beauty Of Joseon

A 5-step evening routine that will get you glowing in the morning! The Routine STEP 1 Radiance Cleansing Balm + Green Plum Refreshing Cleanser Double Cleanse: to rid of residual sebum, SPF, and makeup STEP 2 Green Plum Refreshing Toner AHA + BHA Tone:  to unclog pores and prep the skin for better product absorption STEP 3 Glow Serum: Propolis + Niacinamide Serum: to treat and target concerns (in this case, dullness and uneven skin tone!) STEP 4 Dynasty Cream Moisturize: to strengthen the skin barrier and lock in the products  STEP 5 Revive Eye Serum Eye cream: to target fine lines, wrinkles, and dark under-eyes!

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NEW FORMULA: Green Plum Toner with AHA+BHA

A lightweight watery toner that can wipe away dead skin cells and excess sebum, now reformulated with the best of both exfoliants: 2% Glycolic Acid and 0.5% Salicylic Acid. ORIGINAL VERSION Packaging: Bubble foaming bottle Chemical exfoliants: AHA 3% Hanbang ingredients: 76% Green Tea Leaf Water RENEWED VERSION Packaging: Bubble-free toner bottle Bubble-free dispenser Chemical exfoliants: AHA 2% + BHA 0.5% Comprehensive exfoliation with BOTH BHA and AHA Hanbang ingredients: 25% Green plum water + 2% Mungbean extract Smooths out texture for healthier, refined skin

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Different Types of Skin Texture

Our skin changes a lot: it ages, it peels, it gets irritated, it breaks out, it’s uneven, it’s not poreless, and it’s definitely not perfect–but it doesn’t have to be. We tend to forget our skin is an organ that works extra hard to protect the rest of our body parts, so why not give it some love?  Identifying what kind of texture you're dealing with is the best way to start! It will help determine what products (actives, exfoliants, retinoids, vitamin C, SPF) will work best on them. 1. Sebaceous Filaments Sebaceous Filaments are commonly known as whiteheads. These are round, yellowish white bumps that forms when your skin produces sebum and clogs your pores.   2. Blackheads Open comedones clogged with sebum and appears dark or black at the surface. Blackheads form in the oiliest parts of your skin such as nose, forehead, and cheeks.   3. Papules and Pustules Papules are a form of inflamed acne that is red and usually dome-shaped.  Pustules, on the other hand, is red at the base with white or yellow pus at the tip. 4. Fine Lines Subtle and shallow lines that appear on areas with repeated movement such as the sides of your mouth and corner of your eyes when you laugh or frown. Fine lines are usually the first signs of aging prior to wrinkles. 5. Acne Scab & Mark A pimple residue left to protect the skin after it has subsided with a little PIE or red post acne mark.   Seek Space Best Picks for Textured Skin: 💥 CHEMICAL EXFOLIANTS For quick results! Try Isntree’s BHA Toner (for acne-related texture) or AHA Essence to exfoliate the surface of the skin and bring those bumps out! ☁️ RETINOID Retinoids are effective for texture associated with premature aging (fine lines, loss of elasticity. Try Dr. Different Vitalift-A Forte: a fast-acting retinal! 🍊 VITAMIN C Although more for brightening and hyperpigmentation, vitamin c also helps with texture because of its collagen boosting properties. Try Kaine Vita Drop Serum — safe for sensitive, dull and dry skin! ☀️ SUNSCREEN Pevents texture/roughness from UV induced photo-aging, try Axis-Y’s No-Stress Physical Sunscreen!

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Seek Space Team's Holy Grail Cleansers

We're always recommending you tips, tricks, and products that will work best for your skin type. This time, we’re showing you the team's current favorite cleansers and you'll find that while some of us share the same skin type and concern, we might not share the same favorite cleanser!    B.C. Skin Type: Combination / Acne-Prone / Sensitive Favorite Cleanser: Isntree Green Tea Fresh Cleanser Why I love it: I love the soft-gel texture! It gives a thorough non-stripping cleanse that’s also so soothing and calming, perfect for my sensitive acne and eczema prone skin. Notes: Finding the perfect cleanser is HARD for me! Strong cleansers make my skin oilier while mild cleansers don’t give me enough of a cleanse, both of which can lead to breakouts. I also tend to switch it up depending on how my skin is feeling, on dry days I’ll cleanse with water in the morning and on oily days I’ll use iUNIK’s Mild Cleanser! S.L. Skin Type: Combination Favorite Cleanser: Beauty of Joseon Green Plum Refreshing Cleanser Why I love it: It’s not too drying, has no strong smell, and makes me feel fresh! Notes: I also love Kaine’s Rosemary Cleanser, because of the herbal smell and gives a more ‘refreshing’ feel than BoJ Green Plum. ‘Refreshing' is really important to me in a cleanser. I can tell it's really cleaning my skin, and helps with blackheads around my nose. Y.L. Skin Type: Oily / Combination Favorite Cleanser: Axis-Y Sunday Morning Refreshing Cleansing Foam Why I love it:  The perfect balance of effective, foamy cleansing, but still leaving my skin moist and comfortable post-cleansing. Also the tube looks very pretty by my sink! Notes: I don't always use a cleanser in the morning, just water or I cleanse my t-zone only. I use AXIS Y Sunday Morning most days, and replace it with KAINE's Rosemary Cleanser other days. I always prefer toner exfoliants (2-3x a week), but using Kaine every other night allows me to use it 1x a week, which makes for a less irritating exfoliation routine overall.   R.A. Skin Type: Oily Favorite Cleanser: iUNIK Centella Mild Cleansing Foam Why I love it: With other cleansers, I usually wake up in the morning with a very oily face. I use the Iunik Centella Mild Cleansing Foam as my night cleanser and this one really controls my oil and sebum production overnight! Plus, it is not drying and makes my skin feel hydrated enough. Notes: I first used the Centella Bubble Foam before but I think it was too gentle for my very oily skin. Using the Centella Mild Cleansing Foam with the Chestnut Toner does wonders for my oily skin with clogged pores!   R.E. Skin Type: Dry / Combination Favorite Cleanser: iUNIK Centella Bubble Cleansing Foam Why I love it:  I’m more on the dry side but I tend to get sebaceous filaments / blackheads on my nose. The iUNIK foam is perfect because it’s not drying for my dry-ish skin, actually even leaves it feeling hydrated, clean and helps clear my blackheads!  Notes: I also loved Axis-Y’s Sunday Morning Foam but the Centella Bubble Foam helping my blackheads made it my favorite!   C.M. Skin Type: Combination / Acneic Favorite Cleanser: Isntree Onion Newpair Cleansing Foam Why I love it: I'm currently dealing with a lot of texture, dark spots, and dullness caused by frequent breakouts. Isntree's Onion Cleansing Foam has been helpful in terms of evening out my skin tone, and amazingly it did help brighten some of my newer post-acne marks. I love how my face feels soft after cleansing, too! Notes: I usually go for stronger cleansers (green tea-derived products have also worked well for me in the past) but since my face has been a bit sensitive and irate lately, (because of the weather, wearing face mask, etc) I find my current cleanser does its job perfectly!

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Seek Space's Guide to Cleansers

1. Beauty of Joseon Radiance Cleansing Balm SKIN TYPE: All skin types CONCERNS/BENEFITS: A buttery balm that thoroughly melts away makeup SHOP NOW 2. iUNIK Calendula Complete Cleansing Oil SKIN TYPE: All skin types (even oily skin!) CONCERNS/BENEFITS: A lightweight oil cleanser that removes oil and dirt buildup SHOP NOW 3. AXIS-Y Sunday Morning Cleansing Foam SKIN TYPE: Combination / Dry CONCERNS/BENEFITS: A soft hydrating creamy cleanser that effectively removes excess oils / dirt with Aqauxyl to limit water loss SHOP NOW 4. Isntree Green Tea Fresh Cleanser SKIN TYPE: Combination / Acne Prone CONCERNS/BENEFITS: A soft, non-stripping gel cleanser with fresh green tea to soothe inflamed acne-prone skin SHOP NOW 5. Beauty of Joseon Green Plum Refreshing Cleanser SKIN TYPE: All / Combination CONCERNS/BENEFITS: A refreshing hypoallergenic gel cleanser that gently softens dead skin cells for easier exfoliation SHOP NOW 6. Isntree Sensitive Balancing Cleansing Foam SKIN TYPE: All skin types / Sensitive CONCERNS/BENEFITS: A gentle daily cleanser with a moisturizing barrier care finish SHOP NOW 7. Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Low-pH Cleansing Foam SKIN TYPE: All skin types / Dehydrated CONCERNS/BENEFITS: A cream to foam with a thorough cleanse that boosts hydration SHOP NOW 8. Isntree Onion Newpair Cleansing Foam SKIN TYPE: All / Irritated / Dull CONCERNS/BENEFITS: A rich foam cleanser that helps prevent the appearance of marks while soothing irritation SHOP NOW 9. iUNIK Centella Bubble Cleansing Foam SKIN TYPE: Oily / Acne prone CONCERNS/BENEFITS: A non-drying foaming cleanser with Tea Tree and Centella Asiatica ideal for acne-prone skin SHOP NOW 10. iUNIK Centella Mild Cleansing Foam SKIN TYPE: Oily / Acne prone CONCERNS/BENEFITS: A cream to foam cleanser with 0.2% Salicylic Acid to gently exfoliate and balance sebum SHOP NOW

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ARE YOU APPLYING SUNSCREEN PROPERLY?

APPLY IN LAYERS Don’t apply a whole two fingers full at once: it’ll feel thick and greasy, and if it’s a physical sunscreen there will most likely be a strong white cast. Apply in layers, allowing time for the sunscreen to settle each time. HOW TO APPLY SUNSCREEN Measure two finger lengths (around 1/4 teaspoon) Dab a bit of sunscreen on each area of your face. Spread carefully for an even application. Repeat and apply in layers until you finish two finger lengths of sunscreen. FIND YOUR NEXT FAVORITE SUNSCREEN Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Natural Sun Cream SHOP NOW Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics  SHOP NOW Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel SHOP NOW AXIS-Y Complete No-Stress Physical Sunscreen  SHOP NOW

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Pregnancy-Safe Skincare: Ingredients to Avoid and Products to Use

There's a long list of ingredients that are off limits during pregnancy, but it doesn't mean you have to skip the skincare routine! With numerous changes in your skin due to hormones, you definitely need to switch up your go-to products for the next 9 months for a safer routine for you and your little one. Make sure to avoid these skincare ingredients: Retinoids Chemical sunscreens Hydroquinone Pure / high concentration essential oils. Ingredients such as salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide may require approval from your OB.   Anti-aging routine for to-be moms Are you pregnant and want to get started on an anti-aging routine? Here's a routine that's safe for your baby and you (with all the fluctuating hormones!). 1. Toners Iunik Rose Galactomyces Essential Toner ( ₱649.00) SHOP NOW Beauty of Joseon Ginseng Essence Water  ( ₱899.00) SHOP NOW Use gentle exfoliants especially with AHAs such as glycolic or lactic acid to get rid of dull skin and hyperpigmentation. Isntree Clear Skin 8% AHA Essence (₱499.00) SHOP NOW Ferments such as BIFIDA and Galactomyces improve skin elasticity and provide wrinkle care. Isntree Tone + Wrinkle Real Bifida Ampoule (₱1,299.00) SHOP NOW   Iunik Rose Galactomyces Synergy Serum (₱549.00) SHOP NOW Axis-Y Complete No Stress Physical Sunscreen (₱999.00) SHOP NOW   Source: Bozzo, P., Chua-Gocheco, A., & Einarson, A. (2011). Safety of skin care products during pregnancy. Canadian family physician Medecin de famille canadien, 57(6), 665–667.  

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What are Blackheads + How to Extract Blackheads at Home

What are blackheads? These are bumps with a small dark opening caused by clogged hair follicles. Since the pore is open, exposure to air causes the 'black' appearance. Where do they usually form? Usually on the face, especially on the nose, but can also appear on other parts of your body. backchest neck arms underarms Factors that lead to blackheads Blackheads result from the accumulation of dead skin cells and oil, obstructing the hair follicles. Oil & Sweat Buildup CLEANSER IUNIK Centella Cleansing Foam Unexfoliated Dead Skin Cells EXFOLIANT ISNTREE Chestnut BHA 0.9% Clear Toner     How to Extract Blackheads at Home RECOMMENDATION: Do this after using exfoliants for at least a month, so that the blackheads will be easier to extract (which will lessen any chances of scarring / inflammation!) STEP 1 Properly cleanse the skin and pat dry. STEP 2 Apply a clay mask for 10-15 minutes. If skin is oilier, leave on for longer but if skin is drier, leave on for shorter. Isntree Real Mugwort Clay Mask Axis-Y Mugwort Pore Clarifying Wash Off Pack   STEP 3 If possible, steam for a few minutes to soften the skin. STEP 4 Apply your BHA or AHA exfoliant. Wait 5 to 10 minutes. The blackheads should look a bit more pronounced (as though they are being pushed out of the skin already). Isntree Chestnut BHA 0.9% Clear Toner Beauty of Joseon Green Plum Refreshing Toner: AHA + BHA

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Which Isntree Toner is for you?

With Isntree’s new BHA Toner, we’re getting questions like “what’s the difference?” or “which one should I get?” As always, it depends on your skin type and concerns and to make it a little easier we made this guide for you!   For Normal & Oily Skin 1. Isntree Green Tea Fresh Toner ( ₱599) Skin Type: Acne-prone / Oily Benefits: Anti-inflammatory with sebum control SHOP NOW 2. Aloe Soothing Toner (₱599) Skin Type: Dehydrated / Irritated Benefits: A soothing & lightweight daily toner SHOP NOW Exfoliants 1. Isntree Clear Skin BHA Toner (₱699) Skin Type: Oily / Sensitive / Acne-Prone Benefits: Milder exfoliant for breakouts   SHOP NOW 2. Isntree Chesnut BHA 2% Clear Liquid (₱749) Skin Type: Oily / Acne-Prone Benefits: Unclogs stubborn breakouts SHOP NOW For Dehydrated Skin 1. Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Toner Plus (₱899) Skin Type: Dehydrated / Dry Benefits: An ampoule & toner hybrid for deeper hydration  SHOP NOW 2. Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Toner (₱649) Skin Type: Redness / Dehydrated Benefits: Hydrates and strengthens barrier SHOP NOW

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Purging 101: Everything You Need to Know

If you're wondering why the product you were dying to get your hands on is making your skin look more ghastly than glowing, don't worry! It could just be a case of skin purging.

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Before & After: Post Acne Marks

“The C-Niacin duo did my dull and hyper-pigmented skin wonders in such short amount of time! I’d use the ampoule everyday for the overall brightening of my complexion and use the cream at night as spot treatment for dark marks. Holy grail 🥰  ” - Celina R. Skin Concern: Pigmentation BEFORE March 2021  AFTER May 2021   Our Recommendation: AM ROUTINE ISNTREE C-Niacin Toning Ampoule ₱699.00 BUY NOW PM ROUTINE (Alternate Use)   ISNTREE Clear Skin 8% AHA Essence ₱499.00 BUY NOW   ISNTREE C-Niacin Toning Cream ₱599.00 BUY NOW Need help? Send us a message to get some personalized recommendations! 💌

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Which Beauty of Joseon Serum is for you?

Which Beauty of Joseon serum is for you? We did a break down of each one to help you decide! Rice bran water was used as a daily toner by court ladies in the Joseon period to brighten dull and uneven skin tone, resulting in a porcelain glow. The 2% Arbutin takes it a step further by suppressing melanin production (our natural skin pigment) to effectively prevent hyperpigmentation. The addition of several grain extracts such as Black Soybean, Barley, Black Sesame, Mung Bean, Adlai and Corn all work to improve the skin's health by reducing redness, itching, and irritation. Green Tea, Propolis, and Centella Extract create a calming and anti-inflammatory combination that will soothe sensitized and troubled skin, especially oily and acne-prone. Panthenol or Vitamin B5 gives this a powerful barrier repair boost without any heaviness. Did you know Green Tea is surprisingly rich in Vitamin C, with up to 8x more than lemons? This helps defend against free radicals caused by sun exposure or pollution. Ginseng root water is abundant in saponin, a compound that prevents pigmentation and wrinkles caused by sun damage. Snail secretion filtrate promotes the regeneration of skin cells to restore damaged skin and prevent skin aging.  Both work synergistically to improve your skin's overall health, whether it's damaged, stressed, or dull. It has a viscous texture to comfort stressed skin, but finishes light and seamless, making it perfect for oily or acne-prone skin, or anyone who prefers lightweight serums. P.S. It's fungal-acne safe, which is usually rare for repairing serums! For those who have acne-prone but dry or combination skin, propolis is your ingredient. It calms troubled skin, as well as improves the skin's microbiome and moisture barrier. Honey also has brightening properties to get your skin glowing! The added 2% Niacinamide gives it a boost to help with your overall complexion, while turmeric helps keep your skin healthy. Some FAQs: Q: Can I use more than one serum?A: Of course! But we recommend using it at different times instead of layering it, a simpler routine is best!Q: Morning or Night?A: Either or both is fine, you can use it in the morning for enough moisture in our humid weather!   If you're not sure which one can target your main concerns, send us a message on our Instagram 💌

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Is Your Skin Barrier Damaged?

WHAT IS THE SKIN BARRIER? The skin barrier, (epidermal barrier) is the outside layer of your skin—the first line of defense that protects your skin from environmental aggressors. Your skin barrier’s duties are to: maintain your skin’s moisture balance prevent invasion of bacteria and microbes reduce effects of UV light (minimize wrinkle) reduce effects of oxidative stress (antioxidant barrier)   HEALTHY SKIN BARRIER DAMAGED SKIN BARRIER IS IT DAMAGED? IS YOUR SKIN EXPERIENCING...       If you answered YES to at least 2 concerns, your skin barrier might be damaged. CAUSES OF DAMAGE There are two factors that contribute to the damage of your skin barrier: 1. EXOGENOUS FACTORS climate harsh skincare actives exposure to irritants (bacteria, pollution, etc.) over exfoliation over cleansing (strips off skin’s natural oils) excessive UV exposure 2. ENDOGENOUS FACTORS age (skin thins out) genetics underlying skin conditions  THE DO'S AND DONT'S OF CARING FOR YOU SKIN BARRIER ✅ REMEMBER YOUR BASICS: Listen to your skin and give it only what it needs! ✅ STAY SUN-PROTECTED.  ✅ KEEP A BALANCED PH. ✅ MOISTURIZE RELIGIOUSLY: Look for products with ceramides, glycerin, and other lipophilic agents to restore moisture.     DONT'S ❌ AVOID HARSH CLEANSERS ❌ CUT BACK ON PHYSICAL EXFOLIATION ❌ DON’T USE TOO MANY PRODUCTS AT ONCE SOURCES Pai, D. (2021, May 7). The Skin Barrier: Why It's the Secret to Really Good Skin. NakedPoppy. SEE MORE Rosso, J. D., Zeichner, J., Alexis, A., Cohen, D., & Berson, D. (2016). Understanding the Epidermal Barrier in Healthy and Compromised Skin: Clinically Relevant Information for the Dermatology Practitioner: Proceedings of an Expert Panel Roundtable Meeting. The Journal of clinical and aesthetic dermatology, 9(4 Suppl 1), S2–S8. Rodan + Fields. (2021, June 11). Signs of a Damaged Skin Barrier & What to Do About It. Www.Rodanandfields.Com. SEE MORE Christin, C. (2020, February 18). How to repair a damaged skin barrier. Skin Library.  SEE MORE

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The Truth About Poreless Skin

Myth #1 PORES DON’T OPEN OR CLOSE. They can expand, dilate, or stretch when exposed to steaming, while working out, or when using pore-tackling products. Additionally, steam won't cause your pores to open up like a door, but the heat can cause excess pore buildup to loosen and rise to the surface. Myth #2 BLACKHEADS AREN’T DIRT-FILLED PORES. Blackheads are not always dirt in your pores. This debris can be a buildup of dead skin cells and oil underneath the skin. A variety of factors like genetics, hormones, and skin type can cause this. It doesn’t always mean the skin is dirty. Blackheads appear black / gray color because they’ve been exposed to the air and have oxidized. Myth #3 YOU CAN’T SHRINK PORES PERMANENTLY. The size of your pores is determined by genetics. You can definitely minimise the appearance of your pores by keeping your skin healthy, but you cannot permanently change the actual size of them. When there’s less oil in your pores, they can appear smaller. THERE’S NOTHING WRONG WITH HAVING NATURALLY LARGE PORES. Your pores help sebum and natural oils reach the surface of your skin to keep it moisturized. All pores - big or barely visible - all contribute to healthy skin! In fact, there’s a benefit to having larger pores (which are common for Asian skin) since they can counteract the physical tolls of aging. SOURCES Leiva, C. (2021, April 1). Can You Actually Shrink Your Pores? Here's The Truth. SEE MORE Gould, W. (2020, December 16). Pore Myths, Busted! These Derms Reveal The Truth SEE MORE

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All About Ginseng

WHAT IS GINSENG? Ginseng has always been popular in Korean skincare since the 1500s, used as a main herb for major beauty rituals. This slow-growing short plant with fleshy roots contain potent compounds that benefit the skin in multiple ways such as: Boosting Collagen Production Regenerating Skin Cells Brightening Dull Skin WHAT CAN GINSENG DO FOR MY SKIN? It is a natural skin balancer Has coffee-like energizing factors that brighten and revitalize your complexion. Anti-inflammatory and a calming remedy for skin conditions like acne and psoriasis.It is a natural skin balancer Protects the skin from external environmental aggressors that trigger fine lines, and wrinkling. GINSENG ESSENCE WATER Best for those who are acne-prone and in need of something  hydrating, nourishing, and soothing.   REPAIR SERUM: GINSENG + SNAIL MUCIN Has a viscous texture to comfort stressed skin, but surprisingly finishes light and seamless, making it the perfect choice for oily or acne-prone skin.

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#SEEKSAYS: The Truth About Blue Light

WHAT IS BLUE LIGHT? It is a high-energy, short-wavelength light (HEV) that’s part of the visible light spectrum (what the human eye can see). There are two forms: NATURAL (FROM THE SUN) ARTIFICIAL (FROM GADGETS) BLUE LIGHT AND OXIDATIVE STRESS Studies show that blue light can induce oxidative stress in the skin and can potentially harm the skin through free radical generation, causing photo aging, loss of firmness, pigmentation, and an increase in fine lines. SOURCE: Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity in 2015   NORMAL CELL FREE RADICALS ATTACKING THE CELL CELL WITH OXIDATIVE STRESS FREE RADICAL STRESS ON CELLS NOTE: These effects have been observed in skin exposed to natural blue light, unprotected sun exposure, and not artificial blue light. WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE? Artificial blue light is significantly weaker than blue light from the sun. 1 WEEK of 24/7 screen time   = 1 MINUTE outside the sun. IS BLUE LIGHT-SPECIFIC SKINCARE NECESSARY? #SEEKSAYS: NOPE! Because artificial blue light - from screens - is significantly weaker, normal usage is not enough to trigger harmful effects on the skin. Skincare aimed at preventing blue light damage is more of a marketing tactic with inconclusive evidence. OUR ADVICE Add antioxidants into your routine to fight any oxidative stress Wear sunscreen whenever you're outdoors or near windows Apply a blue light screen protector on your gadgets to protect your eyes SOURCES Grabenhofer, R. (2021, May 5). Beiersdorf Refutes Reports that Artificial Blue Light Causes Skin Damage.  SEE MORE May, B. (2021, January 27). Blue Light From Digital Devices May Contribute to Skin Aging.  SEE MORE Wills, K. (2017, June 1). Lights Off: Is the Glare from your Computer Really Ageing Your Skin? SEE MORE

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Our Products in Glass Packaging and How You Can Recycle Them

AXIS-Y ARTICHOKE INTENSIVE SKIN BARRIER AMPOULE pore-tightening, calming, and skin barrier repair PHP 1,400  Turn used bottles into vases. Give your room a bit of elegance and greenery by repurposing used bottles as flower vases.   IUNIK PROPOLIS VITAMIN SYNERGY SERUM soothing, stress relieving, brightening, and dark spot correcting OTHER SERUMS: Rose Galactomyces Synergy Serum (PHP 799), Black Snail Restore Serum (PHP 899), Tea Tree Relief Serum (PHP 799) PHP 1,100  Turn them into new containers. Use your product empties to contain your DIY skincare, small jewelries, bobby pins, hair ties, and even candles!   ISNTREE SPOT SAVER MUGWORT AMPOULE anti-inflammatory, anti-hormonal acne PHP 2,000  Shop smart. Check if the brand you are purchasing from use reusable and recyclable packaging or have recycling programs. Now all you need are some plants or flowers (fresh or dried) and your used up glass bottles! View this post on Instagram A post shared by Seek Space ® | clean skincare (@seekspace)

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Meet The Plastic Flamingo

HOW TO RECYCLE YOUR PLASTICS WITH THE PLASTIC FLAMINGO The Plastic Flamingo (PLAF) is a social and environmental enterprise committed to tackling marine pollution by collecting and recycling ocean-bound plastic waste and repurposing it in ethical, impactful, and sustainable ways. PLAF ACCEPTS THE FOLLOWING PLASTICS   PET Polyethylene Terephthalate   PP Polypropylene   PVC Polyvinyl Chloride   PS Polystrene   HDPE High-Density Polyethylene   O Others (Lego Bricks, Water Gallons, etc.)   LDPE Low-Density Polyethylene   ECOBRICKS + Cut up plastic strips    RECYCLING WITH THE PLAF OPTION 1 COLLECTION POINT Get 1-2 bins by The PLAF delivered to your house. Start collecting plastic waste within your household. Once bin is full, contact The PLAF to pickup your bins with recycled plastic. OPTION 2 DROP OFF POINT Feel free to drop off your plastic waste at any of these PLAF hubs: PLAF Warehouse (Muntinlupa) Decathlon (Pasig) Decathlon (Alabang) Decathlon (Masinag) UP Town Center (QC) Matenara Trading (QC) L’eau Vive (Manila)   Aksyon ng Kabataan Org. (Marikina) Kalikhasan Eco-Friendly Solutions (Parañaque) Delichoice Inc. (Cainta) SM MOA SM Megamall SM North Edsa SM Fairview   For more information VISIT THE PLAF

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SAVE PH SEAS: A MARINE CONSERVATION IN THE PHILIPPINES

INTRODUCING SAVE PH SEAS What started as a mere social media campaign grew into an NGO in 2013. We spoke to Anna Oposa (@annaoposa) and Gabrielle Paloma (@gabpaloma) of Save PH Seas to get to know more about the organization.   WHAT MADE YOU START @SAVEPHSEAS? Save Philippine Seas began as a social media campaign in 2011 as a response to an illegal wildlife trade case. The hashtags were #savephseas and #reefwatchph. It was only intended to be a platform for updates on that issue, but it evolved into an NGO in 2013. WHAT ARE YOUR [ORGANIZATION'S] GOAL THIS YEAR? This year, we're working on several projects to empower children, youth, and educators on leading marine conservation, waste management, and climate change initiatives. We're also working on eco learning kits that families can do together. Then, raise funds for next year! WHAT ARE THE WAYS ANYONE CAN CONTRIBUTE TO "SAVE PH SEAS"? We're always on the look out for content collaborators (we like to call them coral-borators!) who have a fresh take on environmental issues, and partners from different fields to help us amplify our message and reach new audiences. We also encourage our seatizens to be mindful of our lifestyle choices and make eco-conscious purchases, because what we buy and put on our faces and bodies have an impact on us and our seas. For more information VISIT @SAVESEASPH

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Let's Find Your Stress Triggers

WHAT IS STRESS? Stress can be any change, negative or positive, and is normal and necessary in our lives. However, it is the overload of stress that is damaging to your overall health. TRIGGERS ENVIRONMENTAL Lights Noise Unnerving environment PHYSICAL Diet Night shift work Habits Lack of exercise EMOTIONAL Loneliness Fear of failure Heartbreak Grief   TRAUMATIC These are major experiences that are marked by a sense of horror or helplessness, or events that put either a person or someone close to them at risk of serious harm.   STRESS AND ACNE CYCLES There are two ways stress can cause breakouts: The delayed cycle in which breakouts appear 14 days to 1 month after the onset of stress. The immediate cycle in which breakouts appear immediately following a moment of stress (ex.a big event, a competition, a test etc). DELAYED CYCLE Stress signals the adrenal glands to produce excess hormones which aggravates breakouts. IMMEDIATE CYCLE When stress weakens our resistance the follicular walls on clogged pores rupture,  causing inflamed breakouts.