self-love = skincare
Foreword
Friends to the blog (hugs!) know that I am a big believer in toners. And it just so happens that KBeauty offers a plethora of options for us to choose from (there is something for everyone, literally). In today's post, we will dive into mugwort waters to discuss one of Korea's bestselling toners.
Curious? Then please keep on scrolling
My Skin: dry, sensitive
About the Product
Round Lab Mugwort Calming Toner (27 USD; Made in Korea) - is described as a nutrient-rich, skin-calming, and healing toner.
Packaging: a clear plastic bottle containing 300 ml/ 10 fl. oz of product. The eye-catching illustrations are the brand's adorable signature. Practicality-wise this packaging is great and recyclable, however, not quite travel-friendly.
Formula: a water-based toner that is rich in Mugwort, Sugarcane, Chondrus Crispus (Red Algae), Chlorella Vulgaris (type of algae), Cocoa Seed Extracts, and more. These key ingredients are here to calm, regenerate, hydrate, and boost your skin with antioxidants and protein. Glycerin, a commonly used humectant, is also listed at the top of the ingredient list. Luckily, no alcohols or silicones are present, which is a relief for sensitive skin types.
Vegan🌱 Cruelty-free🐇
Texture: runny, watery. The Mugwort Calming Toner absorbs relatively fast, setting to a natural finish.
Scent: none.
Application: with runny toners like the Mugwort Calming Toner, I prefer pouring them into the palm of my hand before tapping the product across my face and neck. I feel like cotton will only waste it. Ideally, use your toner twice a day (AM and PM) right after cleansing and before moisturizing the skin.
This formula, although appears tinted in the bottle, applies clearly. It creates a thin occlusive layer for other skincare products to go on top of.
first impression
Despite skin feeling instantly refreshed, I would not call this the most hydrating toner I have ever tried. If you are used to a thicker consistency of toner-essence hybrids in particular, you might find this one a bit too watery.
long-term use
Although I have been only using the Mugwort Calming Toner for a month and will have to update this review after a while, I can already see some improvement as far as skin inflammation is concerned. I tend to break out around my chin mostly (usually hormonal) and this formula noticeably speeds up the healing process. I ran out of my other anti-inflammatory products, so I know for a fact it is thanks to this toner. While spot-healing is not overnight magic, I am still pleased with how my skin clears up (and how minimal the aftermath is). Hydration-wise, I wish for more and will have to include other toners in my daily routine.
Verdict
If you have been on the hunt for a skin-soothing toner that comforts and helps keep breakouts at bay, I think you might quite like this Round Lab creation. While it works for all skin types, I believe it will be best for those of you with combination, oily, and especially acne-prone skin. If you want a toner to help tackle dehydration or dryness/tightness, you might consider other options. All in all, I am enjoying the Mugwort Calming Toner and give an A rating for its strengthening and anti-inflammatory properties. I do hope that the brand comes out with a richer version though for those of us with drier skin types so that we can enjoy it to the fullest.
More online:
stylevana.com (Global)
roundlab.com (USA)
PR sample; full disclaimer here
