Naya

Manyo Bifida Biome Aqua Barrier Cream, Review

the hunt for the best of K-Beauty continues

Foreword

Friends to the blog know how passionate I am about trying and hopefully finding the best new formulations Korean Beauty offers. A few months ago I came across a highly-rated moisturizer by the brand Manyo [spelled as Ma:nyo] and it piqued my interest. It had wonderful claims and reviews, so naturally, I felt the need to investigate.

Curious? Then please keep on scrolling

My Skin: dry, sensitive

About the Product

Manyo Bifida Biome Aqua Barrier Cream (25 USD; Made in Korea) - is described as a refreshing cream that strengthens the moisture barrier, soothes irritations, and keeps skin feeling soft and protected.

Packaging: similar to most Korean brands, the design is simple yet ergonomic. You look at a sleek squeeze tube, containing 80 ml/ 2.7 fl oz worth of product. The expiration date is printed on the box, which is something all brands should start doing. Overall, this cream fits well into any travel bag and you get a lot of product for the price compared to Western brands.

Recyclable ♻️

Formula: now, the Bifida Biome Aqua Barrier Cream has the longest ingredient list that I have seen. To keep it short and sweet, let's start by saying that even though this is a water-based formula, the top ingredients are Bifida Ferment Lysate (Lactic Acid bacteria that strengthens and improves the skin barrier) and Centella Asiatica Leaf Water (hero ingredient that soothes, calms, and hydrates). Other notable ingredients are Glycerin (occlusive layer), Niacinamide (Vitamin B3 that improves skin's health and minimizes pores), Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate (deep hydration), Witch Hazel Water (anti-inflammatory), and a myriad of various Lacto-ferments.

😊 PROS

A plethora of skin-hero ingredients and yet no alcohol, mineral oils, fragrance, etc. This makes the Bifida Biome Aqua Barrier Cream a nice contender for beauties with sensitive skin.

☹️ CONS

Just in case you can't tolerate Lavender or Olive Oil derivatives, keep in mind this formula has a smaller content of Lavender Water and Hydrogenated Olive Oil. If you want a Dimethicone-free moisturizer, you might opt for an alternative product, since this Manyo creation has a higher amount of it present in the formula.

Vegan🌱 Cruelty-free🐇

Texture: smooth, gel-cream consistency. The formula spreads and absorbs with ease. Applies and sets clear without ever feeling sticky or heavy.

Scent: none.

Application: the Bifida Biome Aqua Barrier Cream can be used as part of your AM or PM routine. I prefer to use mine in the morning. This almost weightless moisturizer is a great team player, as I find that it mixes well with all kinds of serums or toners that I own.

first impression

Like a glass of pristine water for your skin. It feels instantly refreshed, comforted, and moisturized. The sensation of well-hydrated skin remains well throughout the day.

long-term use

Over time skin barrier strengthens, with little to no irritation or dryness in sight. Even though I would still get an odd pimple here and there, the healing process was noticeably faster and smoother. I almost feel like this formula calms any of the vulnerable areas. Even though Dimethicone is present, thankfully the Bifida Biome Aqua Barrier Cream did not clog the pores.

At this moment in time, my skin is plump, glowing, and nourished.

Verdict

The Bifida Biome Aqua Barrier Cream might be one of the best gel-cream moisturizers I have tried thus far (and I have been reviewing products for many, many moons now). Not only is it packed with a wild collection of skin-loving ingredients, but it also feels uber lightweight and nourishing. My skin barrier was compromised by another product, and this Manyo creation could not have come into my life at a better time. Within a week I noticed a massive improvement and I can see myself relying on this product in the future. I believe a formula like this should suit most skin types (except very dry ones, as you would need a richer concentration). Worth the hype, does what it says, and gets an A rating from me.