for my fellow pandas
Foreword
2023 looks like a year of blush and eye cream. In this post, we will be chatting about the latest creation by Youth To The People, which is (not so coincidentally) an eye serum. Friends to the blog know how much I value a potent eye cream, so I can't wait to share my thoughts on this new formula with you guys. Buckle up!
Curious? Then please keep on scrolling
My Skin: dry, sensitive
About the Product
Youth To The People Peptides + C Energy Eye Concentrate (48 USD; Made in USA) - is described as a concentrated eye serum that brightens, depuffs, and minimizes the appearance of fine lines with daily use.
Packaging: quite on-brand for Youth To The People, the eye serum comes in a recyclable apothecary-style tinted glass bottle. You get 15 ml/ 0.5 fl oz worth of product here, which is a standard amount for most eye creams (or serums). I like the pump on this one because a. it is hygienic and b. it distributes just enough for both eyes in one go (about a pearl-sized dollop).
Formula: this is a water-based, Glycerin-rich formulation that is also infused with a high percentage of various vegan powerhouse ingredients.
PROS😊
Some of the impressive ingredients listed are Citrus Junos Seed Oil (Vitamin C), Panthenol (Vitamin B5), White Dragon Fruit Extract (plant-derived antioxidant), Ilex Leaf Extracts (caffeine), Jania Rubens Extract (Red Algae), and more. You also get a dose of Sodium Hyaluronate (hydration) and Niacinamide (Vitamin B3).
CONS😕
Nothing to complain about, except maybe some Alcohol. Thankfully, it is listed towards the very end of the list, which signifies a minimal amount used (should not cause irritation or dryness). There is a makeup-y agent here as well, called Synthetic Fluorphlogopite that adds a pearl glow effect. While it is skin-safe, whether you like or dislike your skincare with elements of makeup, I thought to still give you a heads-up.
Vegan🌱 Cruelty-free🐇
Texture: neither runny nor thick. The consistency of the Peptides + C Energy Eye Concentrate is on the watery serum-y side (as opposed to creamy). The liquid appears beige but applies clear.
Finish: natural skin finish with a slight pearlescence (not shimmery or glittery). It is quite minimal, and not immediately noticeable to the naked eye.
Application: the Peptides + C Energy Eye Concentrate can be used both during your AM and PM routines. Although it is labeled as a serum, I don't think you need an eye cream with it.
first impression
The under-eye area feels instantly moisturized and refreshed (thanks to a gentle cooling sensation). The hydration lasts well throughout the day. The formula plays well with makeup (personally, I experienced no pilling or patching).
long-term use
The under-eye looks youthful, hydrated, and smooth, with pretty much no texture or dryness in sight. I have hereditary pandas, so I was not expecting miracles as far as dark circles go. However, I must say that in terms of preventative anti-aging skincare measures, this is a nice formula to have as it boosts your skin with antioxidants and keeps dehydration at bay. Over time this should minimize the overall appearance (or formation) of fine lines.
Verdict
A good eye cream or serum is quite hard to find. I consider myself an eye skincare connoisseur - I have tried a plethora of products but not many stood out to me. So, let's just say the bar is high. I did not know what to expect from this Youth To The People creation, however, after many weeks of daily use I have discovered that I actually like it. The Peptides + C Energy Eye Concentrate is a lovely, lightweight formula that will work for most skin types: it gives your under-eye a lovely refreshed feel and look, all while keeping delicate skin hydrated well throughout the day. It did not beat my favorite Caudalie Resveratrol Lift Eye Cream but still came close, which in itself is pretty impressive as I have sensitive eyes and skin and it is hard for me to find something that works. All in all, I think this is a successful launch and give it a B.
More online:
sephora.com (USA)
cultbeauty.com (Global)
PR sample; full disclaimer here