From the natural glow of the idols to the youthful bouncy skin of even the most mature of actresses, I can see why Korean beauty products have been dominating the market, and many of the fan’s hearts.
Previously, I did a quick review on one of the many Basic Skincare sets available from CNP Laboratory earlier, but treating specific headaches like acne and tired looking skin after a sleepless night would need something a little more.
That’s where CNP’s special care range of masks, treatments and packs come into play. They promise the same efficiency despite its mild treatment, making it a number one choice for even those with sensitive skin.
Pore & Spot Treatment
In this hot and humid country, it is almost impossible not to get clogged pores. From the everyday dirt and debris (no thanks to the MRT construction right outside my place), to all the make-up I wear for hours, these banes of my existence left untreated can lead to blackheads and, even worse, acne!
- Anti-Pore Black Head Clear Kit (for Oily & Troubled Skin Types, 3 sets at S$14.10)
There are several ways to get rid of blackheads, but who really has time to go to a facial (major ouch for facial extractions), lean over steaming water or risk harsh exfoliators on your delicate skin. I have also stopped using nose strips that felt like I was removing duct tape off my nose – that reddish aftereffect can’t be good.
CNP Laboratory offers a 2-step mask kit for that very troubled spot of my T-zone, the nose, to gently remove blackheads and sebum without irritation, and follows up with pore contraction to keep the skin clear and smooth. Unlike usual pore extraction masks, this actually comes with 2 masks and a specially designed Q-tip. You might be wondering why there’s this additional component, but it is one of the reasons why it’s a considerably gentle extraction.
Step 1 Mask is an anti-irritant mask that softens that area and induces the sebum crust and blackheads to slowly move out of the skin. The Q-tip is then used to gently push out these nasty annoyances slowly in an upward motion towards the centre – which, is also in black so you can see and feel the satisfaction of the extraction! Now that the pores are all opened and cleaned, Step 2 Mask contracts them while moisturizing and the ZN PCA constituent helps to control sebum generation.
This is one of my emergency go-tos when I start noticing that my nose is getting a little bumpy, and I do not have time to head down for a facial. It definitely works, but, of course, it’s a very gentle method and therefore, I would say only about 70% of my trouble spots were cleaned. While it cannot replace a facial extraction al-together (I wish I could say goodbye to that pain) but, it is a pretty good replacement compared to a lot of DIY kits out there in the market. At least I know I am not irritating my skin and risking a follow-up acne.
- Anti-Blemish Spot Patch (for All Skin Types, 36 pcs at S$12.90) and Blemish Dual Spot (for All Skin Types, 3.5mL x 2 at S$40.90)
What about those blackheads that have move on to a horrible pimple, and on a big day?
If I had a night to spare, I would whip out the Blemish Dual Spot and Anti-Blemish Spot Care. These two products (or should I say three), make up one mighty emergency hotline for my sudden pimples.
First, I would go with the famed Anti-Blemish Spot Solution (viscous yellow liquid), which contains CNP’s own Anti-Blemish Complex and, more importantly, Licorice and Tea Tree Oil Extracts for that soothing and anti-septic effect. Follow this up with their Spot Patch, which also contains Tea Tree Extract – well, the more the merrier!
One thing I enjoyed was its hydrating properties, thanks to glycosaminoglycan and allantoin, which does not leave a dried skin crust around the patch upon waking up the next morning. Another surprise was that, it was stuck on the same spot after a night of tossing and turning.
As miraculous as it is, some stubborn pimples just refuse to back down despite the treatment. After the usual skincare routine, I would use the same products and cover it up with the Concealer. It offers a decent amount of cover for the inflamed terror, and, if is just for a quick trip to the market, I would leave the patch on with the concealer – as it is matte, it actually works discreetly even when I was out running errands. The downside was that it only works on newly formed pimples, and, like most of its products, take some time for it to work its magic.
Pack
- Propolis Deep Moisture Pack (for All Skin Types, 80ml at S$48.90)
Keeping our skin hydrated is the key to that happy radiant looking complexion. However, if you’ve been skimping on your normal day care or have just came back from those horridly dehydrating flights, something a little more intense needs to come to the rescue.
The powerhouse Propolis (packing anit-microbial, allergy treatment to immune-related properties) makes its appearance again in CNP’s Deep Moisture Pack in a whooping 5%. Looking almost like honey, this scentless gel was amazingly absorbed into my skin quickly. This is a major plus point to this sleeping pack as I would not have to worry about leaving streaks of product on my pillow or having my hair uncomfortably stuck to my face. Importantly, it definitely kept my skin hydrated, despite being blasted by the cold and dry air-condition the entire night. My skin had a bounce with an obvious smooth finish (which I could not stop running my hands across).
Mask
CNP seems to have it going for them with the 2-in-1 products, and their masks are no exception. The pack comes with 2mL worth of concentrated ampule (more than enough for my skin and neck), and a mask sheet that ensures maximum absorption of all the goodies packed in this product.
- 2-step Quick Soothing S.O.S. Mask (for All Skin Types, 1pc/5psc at S$6.80/S$30.10)
Starting with their Quick Soothing Mask, which aims to protect our skin in three different ways. For one, it contains a mild sedative and their own Anti-Irritant Complex that can soothe (like its name) the stress the environment to restore our skin to better health. It is rich in plant ingredients, like Chamomile flower extracts that ups the skin’s natural defence. On top of all that, the deep skin penetrating moisturizing ingredients keeps everything together and supple.
While I have only used this once, I would say that it definitely does as it says. Certain red spots were less irritated after the mask, but most importantly, my skin was incredibly supple and moisturized after the treatment. The mask thick with product without dripping all over the place, allowing me to go about my usual activities with it on (much to my families horror, unfortunately). While it is indeed rather pricey for a mask, it comes with an intensive treatment ampule, which together, I can get away with using just once a week.
- 2-step Power Brightening D-Day Mask (for All Skin Types, 1pc/5psc at S$6.80/S$30.10)
The Power Brightening D-Day Mask, on the other hand, is also one of my emergency go-tos. Containing pearl extract and other rich nutrient ingredients, it re-vitalizes tired skin for that special day ahead. From Evodia fruit extract to its anti-pollution function that keeps skin soothed, it creates the ultimate radiance base that brings envy to the bare faced beauty as well as enhancing the effects of make-up.
It was my quick and easy solution to revive my skin after a tiring week and when I have an important day tomorrow. It works its magic to give that plump radiance that I got addicted to – I mean, even with the best makeup skills, you cannot hide tired and saggy skin. This is a product that I, without a doubt, will continue investing in.
Eye Treatment
- Hydrogel Eye Lifting Patch (for All Skin Types, 4pcs at S$14.80)
I am a repeat offender of late nights that involve long hours of staring at the computer. The sure fire way to look like Singapore’s very own Kai Kai and Jia Jia. What’s more, the recent travels seem to have made it worse.
This product might be the epitome of convenience in the entire CNP range. The simple packaging in sheets makes it easy to bring on travels, the gel-like jelly of the mask makes it easy to apply while in-flight and the adhesive properties keep it where it’s supposed to be even after an accidental dozing off. Likewise, there’s no overflow of the product, making it a clean and easy application. Function wise, it does refresh my eye area due to its cooling touch, keeps it hydrated and does lighten my dark circles.
Verdict
On top of the Basic Skincare already helping to improve my skin condition, the additional spot treatments and mask helped to rescue my skin when I have been a little mischievous. Likewise, I have not had an adverse reaction to any of these products and I would think the same for people with sensitive skin. Overall, they have continued to make it simple and easy to achieve radiant-looking skin without ages in the bathroom or worse, the dermatologist’s office – when I desperately need it.
CNP Laboratory products are available at Guardian Health & Beauty stores located throughout Singapore, as well as, on their online store.
About the Writer
Jessica is a young lady of many obsessions. She gets herself into everything ranging from the latest in the monochrome fashion world (she only wears black, and sometimes, white) to convincing the masses that Community is the best TV series ever made.
Currently, she enjoys looking like Sailor Mercury had a baby with Wednesday Addams.
