For a while now we have all been aware of the Cica trend within Korean Beauty. But what does happen when there is a new trend? Say hi to the era of pads. For a couple of months ago, Neogen released the Real Cica Pads, and I had to get my hands on them.
Those of you that have been struggling with acne or sensitive skin know that exfoliating sometimes might be the last thing you want to do. When Neogen released a new set of exfoliating toning pads, my inner Neogen lover screamed so badly. Why? Although I do exfoliate my skin I only use the Neogen Gauze pads (read a previous review about the Green Tea formula here) once a week. The main reason is the fact that I don’t want to over exfoliate my skin with hard ingredients since its already so sensitive. These pads come soaked (like really soaked!!) in Centella Asiatica essence, the current K-Beauty hero.
While writing this post I actually found out that I didn’t mention Cica in the ABC of Korean Skincare post, so I feel like I have to rant about it a bit here. Cica is not a recently discovered component, it’s been a staple in traditional Chinese medicine for ages for such as treating wounds. Now, a loved child has many different names so when you see “Cica”, this basically stands for Centella Asiatica, Indian Pennyworth, Gotu Kola and Tiger Grass. The last one, in particular, occurred due to the fact that tigers in Asia rub their wounds against the Cica plant to help it regenerate. When it comes to the skincare benefits, they are numerous. No matter the issue you are facing with your skin, Cica will probably solve it in some kind of way. Thus, it’s properties to soothe and repair irritated and damaged skin, including treating ance and calming sensitive skin. The main reason for why Cica is such a gem throws it back to its chemical composition full of amino acids, beta-carotene, fatty acids, and Vitamin C, A, B1, and B2. Combined they can assist collagen production due to the fact that they are packed with antioxidant. So, if you’re looking to firm, repair, or soothe skin, or even combat breakouts, this ingredient can be helpful.
When it comes to my skin issues and Cica, I did start using Cica in the form of a serum a while ago. Maybe before the hype. However, I started using it for acne but then I quickly found out about its amazing properties for healing dry and sensitized skin. It also brightened my skin tone and calmed my uneven skin tone. The main reason for why it worked so well for me is the fact that it boosts the circulation and blood flow to the skin. But let’s get back to the actual product.
With a super concentrated formula, these pads will provide a stronger skin barrier and a more even complexion. Containing hyaluronic acid and ceramides as well, the pads are a great supplement for skin hydration, and they are also free from potential irritants like artificial fragrance, mineral oil, and parabens. Since they also have a low pH of 5.8(3), they are gentle enough for daily use! Unlike other exfoliating pads that do have a rough side and a smooth side, they have the same sheer pattern on both sides. When using them, it doesn’t feel like you are exfoliating your skin at all. The pads are made out of superfine fibres that are saturated in essence. As they claim to exfoliate, soothe, hydrate, strengthen and of course heal you actually get a multipurpose product when buying these pads. And honestly, guys, don’t let me get started on the extreme amount of essence that is in the container! I mean wow, if you have used any other pads you are probably aware of that most pads come soaked with an ok amount of essence in the container, but these are actually bathing in a freaking pool of essence!
So, how are they supposed to be used? After cleansing, take one pad and lightly swipe it across your face, avoiding the sensitive area around your eyes. When done exfoliating, tap in the remaining essence and then just follow up with the rest of your skincare regimen. These pads were made for only being used once a day. I think the main reason for this is the fact that they are super potent, so once is enough. Actually, I do feel like the description is a bit vague, so how do I use them? After my nighttime cleansing routine, I first use my toners to stabilize the pH levels while removing the fragments of makeup or sunscreen that haven’t been removed and moisturize the skin. Then, when I’m done with toning, I take one pad and gently exfoliate my face, then I tap in the essence and continue with my routine. Idk why it’s so important to use these for me at night time, but one of the main reasons might be the fact that I use the COSRX Moisture Up Pad (read about them here) during my morning routine.
The claims are true to the main function of Cica, and even though its hard to say something negative about them. It might be regarding the packaging. It doesn’t have anything to do with the way it looks, thus it comes in a plastic container with a pretty pick design. I do like the container of the other Neogen Exfoliating pads more, thus I do feel like this is a bit cheap looking compared to them. However, my biggest issue is the fact that the container isnt leak proof! I think it was the first time I used them, and after closing the lid (super tight so they wouldn’t dry up) I had left them on my vanity table and in some kind of way they had ended up falling on the side and idk like 60% of the essences in the container had run out. Honestly, it was all over the place and even on the floor! But oh em gee, there is yet to be an extreme amount of essence left in the container!
Overall, they don’t have a particular smell, it’s more natural and subtle. The pads do feel very light on the skin and they are quite sheer compared to the COSRX and other Neogen pads. As a person with skin that easily can break out and react, these pads haven’t treated me bad at all. They do feel a bit cooling when applied, and they are super soothing as well. If you are looking for a new product that doesn’t make your wallet cry, but still is effective, these should totally be put in your shopping cart. Ps. they are pretty cheap too if you’re not on a strict KB-budget!
ggooltip. 