The word acid gets a bad rap for apparent reasons. Pair it with skin, and it sounds like a terrifying combo. The truth is, it’s a match that makes for heavenly skin — but only if done right. Navigating the world of chemical exfoliators can be complicated, especially if you’ve never tried one. But they’re … Read more
Oh, the ever-so-trendy propolis! Also referred to as bee glue, propolis is a natural resin compound honeybees produce that provides many skincare benefits. The ingredient delivers antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties to help soothe and relieve irritated skin. It’s known as a miracle worker, which effectively repairs damaged skin and heals acne and … Read more
After noticing the warm hospitality a couple of vitamin C derivative-based serums received on my skin, I figured it was finally time to take the plunge and test out the ‘big brother’ himself. Isntree Hyper Vitamin C 23 Serum was a no-brainer purchase in this category mainly for two reasons: The first was obviously due to … Read more
As if acne isn’t torture enough and a blow to our self-esteem, we’re left with pesky marks on our skin known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (or PIH for short). Can you eliminate post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and if so, what are the best ingredients and products for treating post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation? What Is Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)? So why do … Read more
I am a packaging person when it comes to skincare. I often buy a product because it looks too cute to be resisted. And this usually ends in disappointment. It was not until I met COSRX that I changed my mind about how skincare brands can be non-cute and non-fancy but effective. Besides, non-fancy packaging … Read more
We are definitely in a time of hype and innovation in skincare. While I consider myself one of those too excited to see what innovations are being rolled out by major brands and indie companies alike, my skincare choices and routines are pretty basic. So I’ve been so happy to see all of the skincare … Read more
Herbal ingredients have been essential in traditional Asian medicine since ancient times. Ginseng has been a legendary healing root vital to traditional Korean healing arts for centuries. Also known as ‘the root of immortality’ for its powerful anti-aging properties, ginseng has been increasingly used in Korean skincare products. Ginseng has many known health benefits when … Read more
I love sunsticks for their convenience and portability, but finding a good one can be tricky. Because Most of my skincare-addicted life has been dedicated to sunscreens from the Far East, I was thrilled when they recently launched the Beauty of Joseon Matte Sun Stick. It’s a rare gem of a chemical sunscreen that glides … Read more
Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate has considerable benefits for the skin and is a beloved skincare ingredient in Korea and Japan. As usual, Koreans are ahead of the game and have had fermented skincare on the market for a while, but only recently has it become popular out West. Several products have Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate as the … Read more
I’m only about 547 years later than everyone jumping on this COSRX AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner bandwagon, but that’s okay. Better late than never and all that jazz, right? I only recently discovered this toner by browsing YouTube videos about skincare. COSRX AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner is a toner with hydrating, refreshing, and pH-balancing properties. … Read more
Garden of muses
Welcome skintellectuals to the Garden of Muses.
A science-based skincare magazine covering everything from ingredient spotlights, reviews, skincare guides, and routines to busting myths, finding dupes, and breaking down trends.
Our passionate and knowledgeable editors review their beauty crushes.
