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Jones Road Your Skin Foundation Stick Review & Swatch

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Jones Road Your Skin Foundation Stick Review & Swatch

If you love the effortless skin-first aesthetic of Jones Road Beauty but have been waiting for something with a bit more coverage and longevity, the new Jones Road Your Skin Foundation Stick could be exactly what you’re after.

I recently went to Liberty London to get shade matched and properly try it out, and I have to say, first impressions are good.

What is Jones Road Your Skin Foundation Stick?

What is Jones Road Your Skin Foundation Stick
What is Jones Road Your Skin Foundation Stick?

The Your Skin Foundation Stick is a creamy stick foundation designed to give medium to full buildable coverage with a natural-looking finish that still looks like skin.

The formula contains skincare ingredients including:

  • Ceramides
  • Squalane
  • Hyaluronic Acid

So while it definitely offers more coverage than the brand’s original complexion products, it still has that comfortable, nourishing feel.

Jones Road Your Skin Foundation Stick Demo

My Shade Match: Linen

I was matched to the shade Linen at Liberty, and the team removed quite a lot of my existing base before applying it properly to the skin, which I always appreciate when testing foundation.

I’ll add swatches of Linen below, and once PR stock comes back in, I’m hoping to get hold of more shades to swatch for you because I think a lot of people will want to see comparisons across the range.

Jones Road Your Skin Foundation Stick - Linen Swatch
Jones Road Your Skin Foundation Stick – Linen Swatch

Jones Road Your Skin Foundation Stick Shade Range

The Jones Road Your Skin Foundation Stick comes in 30 shades with a good mix of cool, neutral and warm undertones across the spectrum.

Here’s the full shade breakdown:

  • Pale Alabaster – very pale with neutral pink undertones
  • Alabaster – pale with neutral pink undertones
  • Bisque – pale with pink undertones
  • Linen – pale with neutral undertones
  • Warm Linen – pale with warm undertones
  • Porcelain – pale with neutral undertones
  • Fair – fair with cool undertones
  • Neutral Fair – fair with neutral undertones
  • Ivory – fair with warm undertones
  • Light – light with warm undertones
  • Sand – light with neutral undertones
  • Beige – light to medium with neutral undertones
  • Warm Beige – light to medium with warm undertones
  • Neutral Beige – light to medium with neutral undertones
  • Medium – medium with neutral warm undertones
  • Warm Medium – medium with warm undertones
  • Neutral Medium – medium with neutral undertones
  • Neutral Honey – medium to tan with neutral undertones
  • Medium Honey – medium to tan with neutral warm undertones
  • Honey – medium to tan with warm undertones
  • Warm Honey – medium to tan with neutral warm undertones
  • Golden – tan with warm undertones
  • Hazelnut – medium to dark with neutral undertones
  • Pecan – dark with neutral undertones
  • Almond – dark with warm undertones
  • Walnut – dark with neutral undertones
  • Cinnamon – dark with cool undertones
  • Chestnut – dark to deep with cool undertones
  • Deep – deep with neutral undertones
  • Espresso – very deep with neutral undertones

I was matched to Linen, which is described as pale with neutral undertones, and it worked really well for my complexion.

At the moment, I only have my own shade (Linen) to show you properly, however, I’m hoping to get hold of additional samples as soon as PR stock allows because I think this is definitely the kind of formula people will want detailed swatches of.

Jones Road Your Skin Foundation Stick Review

My Review of Jones Road Your Skin Foundation Stick
My Review of Jones Road Your Skin Foundation Stick

I really like the packaging of this product. It feels weighty and luxurious and has a really elegant magnetic close that’s super satisfying.

Jones Road Your Skin Foundation Stick Packaging
Jones Road Your Skin Foundation Stick Packaging

The Formula & Finish

The texture is really lovely. It has a creamy consistency that glides onto the skin effortlessly and blends out so easily. You can literally draw it straight onto the face and diffuse it with a brush or fingers in seconds.

What I really like about it is the finish. It sits in a very nice sweet spot that I think a lot of people will enjoy.

It’s definitely not matte, which I personally love because matte foundations can feel quite ageing and flat on my skin. But equally, it’s not greasy or overly emollient the way some stick foundations can be.

I’d describe it as:

  • Softly radiant
  • Satin
  • Very subtly dewy

Basically, it gives the skin freshness and glow without tipping into shiny territory.

Coverage & Wear

Coverage is said to be medium to full and very buildable, but despite that, it still feels lightweight and comfortable on the skin. If you use a small about, you can blend it out as a sheer foundation, so it’s really versatile.

Personally, I’d said this is more of a medium than a full. It layers beautifully too, so it’s easy to add extra coverage where you need it without things looking heavy.

I actually think this will be a brilliant handbag foundation because the stick format makes touch-ups so easy. The packaging is compact, feels really nice in the hand, and just looks very chic.

In terms of wear, I think this stands up really well. I tested it without concealer and by the end of the day I wear tested it, it had faded a little under the eyes, but stayed intact everywhere else really well.

What impressed me most was how nicely everything layered over it. My REESON Bronzing Balm, Blush and Highlighter Duo* all sat really beautifully on top without patchiness or separation.

Before & After

Jones Road Your Skin Foundation Stick - Before Photo
Jones Road Your Skin Foundation Stick – Before Photo
Jones Road Your Skin Foundation Stick - After Photo (Shade Linen)
Jones Road Your Skin Foundation Stick – After Photo (Shade Linen)

Jones Road Your Skin Foundation Stick Comparisons

There are quite a few complexion sticks on the market now, but what makes the Jones Road Beauty Your Skin Foundation Stick stand out is the balance of the finish. It manages to look fresh and skin-like without becoming overly glossy, greasy or heavy, which can sometimes happen with cream stick formulas.

Here’s how I think it compares to some of the other complexion sticks I’ve reviewed and tested.

Jones Road vs ILIA Skin Rewind

Compared to the ILIA Skin Rewind Complexion Stick, the Jones Road gives similar coverage but with more of a radiant finish. I find the Ilia to be more matte than I wanted to be, so don’t really reach for it that much.

ILIA feels more skincare-first and sheer, whereas Jones Road sits in a really nice middle ground between skin tint and proper foundation.

If you want:

  • More evening-out coverage with a softly radiant natural finish → Jones Road
  • More minimal soft matte finish → ILIA

You can read my full review here: ILIA Skin Rewind Complexion Stick Review & Swatches.

Jones Road vs Hourglass Vanish Stick

The Hourglass Vanish Seamless Finish Foundation Stick is definitely the fullest coverage and most perfected-looking formula of the group I think.

Hourglass gives a more sculpted, flawless finish, whereas Jones Road looks softer, fresher and more skin-like. Hourglass also feels denser and more concentrated in pigment, while Jones Road has a lighter, creamier glide.

If you prefer:

  • Full glam perfection → Hourglass
  • Softer everyday polished skin → Jones Road

My full review is here:
Hourglass Vanish Foundation Stick Review & Swatches.

Jones Road vs Westman Atelier

The closest comparison in overall vibe is probably the Westman Atelier Vital Skin Foundation Stick. Both are creamy, skin-enhancing and designed to create that expensive-looking healthy complexion rather than a flat matte finish.

However, Westman Atelier feels slightly richer and more emollient on the skin, while Jones Road has a touch more structure and longevity from first impressions.

Jones Road is also significantly more affordable. You can read my review here:
Westman Atelier Foundation Review & Swatches.

Jones Road vs bareMinerals Complexion Rescue Stick

The bareMinerals Complexion Rescue Luminous Skin Tint Stick is much more of a sheer hydrating tint stick.

If you love very fresh, glowy, low-maintenance makeup, bareMinerals is beautiful, but Jones Road gives more coverage, more flexibility and a slightly more refined finish overall.

Jones Road also feels less slippery and has better layering capability for building coverage.

You can read my full review here:
bareMinerals Complexion Rescue Foundation Stick Review & Swatches.

Jones Road vs MERIT The Minimalist

MERIT The Minimalist Foundation and Concealer Perfecting Complexion Stick is probably the most directly comparable in concept because both are modern complexion sticks designed to create easy, natural-looking skin.

For me, the biggest differences are texture and finish. MERIT has a slimmer bullet, which makes application more precise and especially good for targeted concealing around the nose, under eyes and blemishes.

The formula itself feels slightly drier and more matte than Jones Road, although still nowhere near a traditional matte foundation.

Jones Road feels creamier, more softly radiant and slightly more forgiving on dry areas, whereas MERIT gives a cleaner, softly blurred skin finish.

I think:

  • Dry skin types may prefer Jones Road
  • Combination skin may love MERIT
  • For quick precision application → MERIT
  • For a fresher glow → Jones Road

Jones Road vs Dior Forever Skin Perfect Stick

I haven’t tried the Dior stick for a while but I’d say it is slightly creamier and fuller coverage than the Jones Road, and feels a touch heavier on the skin.

Jones Road, by comparison, feels lighter and more skin-first, with a softer satin-radiant finish that still looks like real skin rather than a filtered effect.

Jones Road gives more of that comfortable, balmy glide and builds coverage in a very natural way. You can build it up without it looking heavy, whereas I think if you build the Dior too much, you can go too far, if you know what I mean.

Final Thoughts

I think this is going to be a really popular launch for Jones Road because it fills a gap that a lot of people have been looking for within the brand.

It gives more coverage and polish than ultra-sheer skin tints, but still maintains that modern skin-like finish that people want now. For me, the standout thing is the balance of the formula:

  • Not too matte
  • Not too dewy
  • Not too heavy
  • Still fresh and flattering

It just makes skin look healthy and naturally perfected without looking overdone.

I’m going to keep testing it and will continue to update this review with longer-term wear thoughts and more swatches as soon as I can get hold of additional shades.

Where to buy it

Jone Road Your Foundation Stick is £36 and available now via the links below:

Jones Road Your Foundation Stick FAQs

Is Jones Road Your Skin Foundation Stick good for mature skin?

Yes, I think this formula will appeal particularly to mature skin because it has a softly radiant finish that doesn’t flatten the complexion or emphasise texture. It feels creamy and comfortable rather than dry or tight, which can often happen with matte stick foundations.

What skin type is Jones Road Your Skin Foundation Stick best for?

From my first impressions, I think this works best for:
– Normal skin
– Dry skin
– Combination skin
– Mature skin

If you are very oily, you may prefer to set it with powder through the T-zone because the finish is more satin-radiant than matte.

Is Jones Road Your Skin Foundation Stick full coverage?

I’d describe the coverage as a solid medium and very buildable. One light layer gives a natural perfected finish, but it layers easily in areas where you want more coverage without looking heavy.

Does Jones Road Your Skin Foundation Stick look greasy?

No, and I think this is one of the best things about the formula. It has a softly radiant satin finish rather than an oily or overly dewy look. It sits in a really nice middle ground between matte and glow.

How do you apply Jones Road Your Skin Foundation Stick?

You can draw the stick directly onto the skin and blend with a brush, sponge or fingers. I personally like applying it through the centre of the face first and then blending outward for the most natural finish.

Is Jones Road Your Skin Foundation Stick long wearing?

I’m still testing this, however, my first wear test was very impressive. By the end of the day it was still looking fresh and flattering on the skin with minimal fading – just a little around the eyes.

Is it good for dry skin?

Yes, this is a really good option for dry skin. The formula is creamy and contains hydrating ingredients like squalane, ceramides and hyaluronic acid, which help it feel comfortable rather than drying or tight.

It blends easily and doesn’t cling to dry patches, and the softly radiant finish helps skin look smoother and more natural rather than matte or flat. For very dry skin, I’d still recommend moisturising well underneath for the best, most even finish.

Is it good for oily skin?

It can work for oily skin, but it depends on the finish you prefer. The formula is on the more satin-radiant side rather than matte, so on oilier skin types it may develop shine through the T-zone during the day.

That said, it does have a lightweight, non-greasy feel on application and builds well without immediately breaking down, so many oily skin types may still enjoy it, especially if they prefer a more natural, skin-like finish and set it lightly with powder where needed. If you prefer a very matte, oil-controlling base, this may feel a bit too radiant.

Caudalie Vinoperfect Brightening Dark Spot Serum Review | Vitamin C Alternative for Hyperpigmentation & Glow *AD

 
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Caudalie Vinoperfect Brightening Dark Spot Serum Review | Vitamin C Alternative for Hyperpigmentation & Glow *AD

*Links marked with asterisks are affiliate links, these help Ree with running costs of the blog

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Caudalie Vinoperfect Brightening Dark Spot Serum Review | Vitamin C Alternative for Hyperpigmentation & Glow

I often hear from readers who want brighter, more radiant skin but struggle with traditional Vitamin C formulas. If that sounds familiar, Caudalie Vinoperfect Brightening Dark Spot Serum is always one I recommend taking a look at.

This serum is formulated to target dark spots, uneven tone and dullness without the irritation that some Vitamin C serums can caused and so it’s an absolutely brilliant alternative, especially for anyone who finds classic Vitamin C formulas too strong, unstable or difficult to tolerate.

This is a product that I’ve had in my rotation for quite some time, and I love it for radiance, pigmentation and overall skin tone. Here’s what you need to know.

What is Caudalie Vinoperfect Brightening Dark Spot Serum?

Caudalie Vinoperfect Brightening Dark Spot Serum - Pipette
Caudalie Vinoperfect Brightening Dark Spot Serum – Pipette

The Caudalie Vinoperfect Serum is formulated to:

  • Visibly reduce the appearance of dark spots
  • Improve hyperpigmentation and uneven tone
  • Boost overall radiance and glow
  • Deliver a brighter, more even complexion over time
  • Often positioned as a Vitamin C alternative, with a gentler approach to brightening that suits a wider range of skin types.

One of the standout ingredients is Caudalie’s patented Viniferine, derived from vine sap, which is designed to help visibly target dark spots and uneven skin tone. It is said to be 62 times more effective than Vitamin C when it comes to brightening action.

The formula also contains olive-derived squalane which helps to moisturise and soothe the skin in a really lightweight texture.

Get 15% off with code REALLYREESPH via the link below:

How To Use Caudalie Vinoperfect Brightening Dark Spot Serum

Apply the serum to clean, dry skin after cleansing and before moisturiser. I like to use it in the morning on clean skin. It layers really well under other serums and moisturisers, and it you don’t like too many layers, I find it hydrating enough on its own under SPF for day time.

Because the formula is so lightweight and non-greasy, it layers really nicely under makeup.

My Review of Caudalie Vinoperfect Brightening Dark Spot Serum

My Review of Caudalie Vinoperfect Brightening Dark Spot Serum
My Review of Caudalie Vinoperfect Brightening Dark Spot Serum

I have had this serum in my rotation for quite some time and have used it lots over the years. It’s a great one to have in my stash if my skin is feeling sensitive, but I still want genuine brightening action.

Texture & Formula

Caudalie Vinoperfect Brightening Dark Spot Serum Texture
Caudalie Vinoperfect Brightening Dark Spot Serum Texture

One of the things I love most about this serum is the texture. It has a beautiful lightweight, milky consistency that feels instantly fresh and comforting on the skin. It sinks in effortlessly and layers beautifully with the rest of my skincare and makeup without ever feeling sticky, heavy or greasy.

The formula feels hydrating, soothing and calming straight away, and leaves the skin feeling soft and plumped with a really healthy-looking radiance.

Key Ingredients

One of the standout ingredients of Caudalie Vinoperfect Brightening Dark Spot Serum is Caudalie’s patented Viniferine, derived from vine sap, which is designed to help visibly target dark spots and uneven skin tone. The brand states that it is 62 times more effective than Vitamin C when it comes to brightening action, which is why this serum is so often talked about as a gentler Vitamin C alternative.

The formula also contains olive-derived squalane which helps to moisturise and soothe the skin while maintaining that beautifully lightweight, non-greasy finish.

How It Performs

What I really like about this serum is that the brightening effect feels gradual and skin health-focused rather than overly aggressive. Instead of giving that strong active feeling that some pigmentation treatments can have, this works in a much gentler way to leave skin looking fresher, clearer and more even over time.

With regular use, you will see much more radiance and evenness in your skin and a lovely healthy look to your complexion.

  • More radiant
  • More even in tone
  • Less dull and tired
  • Smooth and healthy-looking

It’s the kind of serum that makes your skin look quietly better overall rather than dramatically changing it overnight.

Who It’s Good For

I think this is especially good for anyone who wants to tackle

  • Dark spots
  • Uneven skin tone
  • Post-blemish marks
  • General dullness

You can work to tackle these issues with this serum without the need of using a stronger active that could potentially upset the skin barrier. It’s such a great option if you’ve struggled with traditional Vitamin C serums feeling too harsh, irritating or unstable on your skin.

My Final Thoughts

This is such an easy brightening serum to use because it combines radiance with comfort brilliantly. The lightweight texture, soothing feel and non-greasy finish make it a really effortless addition to a skincare routine, and that’s why it has become such a cult product.

If you’re looking for a brightening serum that helps improve pigmentation and boost glow without compromising skin comfort, this is definitely one to have on your radar.

Where to buy it

Caudalie Vinoperfect Brightening Dark Spot Serum is £52 for 30ml. Get 15% off with code REALLYREESPH at Sephora via the link below:

Offers

Sephora UK Discount Code

Exclusive Sephora UK discount code for 15% off

FAQs About Caudalie Vinoperfect Serum

Is Caudalie Vinoperfect Good For Sensitive Skin?

I think one of the reasons this serum has become so popular is because it offers a much gentler approach to brightening. A lot of pigmentation-focused products can feel quite aggressive on the skin, especially if they rely heavily on stronger acids or potent Vitamin C formulas. This formula feels far more comfortable and balanced. It’s hydrating, soothing and easy to tolerate, which makes it a really good option if your skin is prone to sensitivity, dehydration or irritation.

Why Is Caudalie Vinoperfect Called a Vitamin C Alternative?

Caudalie Vinoperfect is often described as a Vitamin C alternative because it focuses on improving radiance, dark spots and uneven skin tone without relying on traditional Vitamin C as the hero ingredient. It uses Caudalie’s patented Viniferine, derived from vine sap, to help visibly brighten and refine the complexion over time.

Does Caudalie Vinoperfect Help With Dark Spots?

Yes, this is exactly what this serum is designed to target. While it’s not designed to be an aggressive treatment, it works consistently to help skin look brighter, clearer and more even over time. It works particularly well for on post-blemish marks and sun-related dark spots.

Is Caudalie Vinoperfect Better Than Vitamin C?

I don’t think it’s necessarily a case of one being “better” than the other. It really comes down to your skin type, concerns and what your skin tolerates best. Traditional Vitamin C serums can be excellent for boosting radiance and helping to improve pigmentation, and I still think they have a really important place in a skincare routine. What makes Caudalie Vinoperfect different is that it offers a gentler approach to brightening.

To check out more of my favourite serums, read Best Serums for 2026 – all Skin Types & Budgets.

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M&S Summer Beauty Bag 2026 Review (Save 81%)

 
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M&S Summer Beauty Bag 2026 Review (Save 81%)

Marks & Spencer’s best-selling Summer beauty bag is back just in time for holiday season and it’s looking really good. Here’s what you need to know about the M&S Summer Beauty Bag 2026.

What is in the M&S Summer Beauty Bag 2026?

What's in M&S Summer Beauty Bag 2026
What’s in M&S Summer Beauty Bag 2026

This sunshine-ready edit is packed with beauty favourites to see you through the season, all tucked inside a chic reusable bag. From glow-boosting skincare to effortless hair heroes and easy summer makeup, it’s a gorgeous mix of products that work beautifully together.

There’s a fresh burst of floral fragrance with Floral Street Wonderland Peony Eau De Parfum, while ICONIC London Prep Set Glow delivers that radiant, lit-from-within finish we all love in warmer weather. For hair, Hair by Sam McKnight Sundaze Sea Spray adds soft, undone texture, teamed with nourishing staples from Color Wow to help keep hair looking glossy and healthy.

Skincare is equally strong, with hardworking formulas from Estée Lauder and Clinique, plus SPF essentials from Ultrasun to help keep skin protected and comfortable in the sunshine. There’s also a gorgeous body glow moment courtesy of This Works Perfect Body Vit C Glow, alongside SkinKind SOS Balm for whenever skin needs a little extra TLC.

To finish, Leighton Denny adds a juicy pop of colour for the perfect polished touch.

  • Floral Street Wonderland Peony Eau De Parfum – 10ml
  • Iconic London Prep Set Glow Original – 120ml (Full Size)
  • Leighton Denny I love Juicy Opague Nail Polish – 13.5g (Full Size)
  • Hair by Sam McKnight Sundaze Sea Spray – 150ml (Full Size)
  • Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion SPF50 – 50ml (Full Size)
  • Estée Lauder Perfectly Clean Multi-Action Foam Cleanser / Purifying Mask – 150ml (Full Size)
  • Colourwow Dreaming Mask – 50ml
  • Colourwow Shampoo – 75ml
  • This Works Perfect Body Vit C Glow – 150ml
  • Ultrasun Photo Age Control Fluid SPF 50 – 40ml
  • SkinKind Mini Repairing SOS Balm – 25ml
  • Storage Bag
M&S Summer Beauty Bag 2026 Contents
M&S Summer Beauty Bag 2026 Contents

Is the M&S Summer Beauty Bag Worth It?

In my opinion, yes. I think this is one of the strongest M&S beauty edits in recent years, especially if you love discovering premium beauty without paying full price.

At £40, M&S say the bag contains over £230 worth of products, and there’s a really good balance of skincare, haircare, body products and makeup inside.

What makes this edit feel particularly worthwhile is that it includes genuinely usable products from brands people already know and love, rather than lots of filler minis. The full-size ICONIC London Prep Set Glow, Hair by Sam McKnight Sundaze Sea Spray and Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion SPF50 already make the price feel justified before you even get to the rest of the bag.

I also think the product mix feels very wearable for summer. You’ve got glow-enhancing skincare, SPF, effortless hair texture, body glow and a fresh floral fragrance. They are all things that actually fit into a warm-weather routine rather than products that will sit forgotten in a drawer.

The inclusion of brands like Estée Lauder, Clinique, Color Wow and Hair by Sam McKnight definitely gives it a more premium feel too.

Another thing worth noting is that these M&S beauty bags* have a habit of selling out quickly every year.

If you’ve been wanting to try a few new summer beauty products, or you’re looking for a travel-friendly edit packed with well-known brands, I think this is a really good buy.

How to get the M&S Summer Beauty Bag

The M&S Summer Beauty Bag is £40 and you get an 81% value saving.

When does it launch?

The Summer Beauty Bag is available now
while stocks last.

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K18 Leave-in molecular repair hair mask Review

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hey hey! I hope all is well. today I’m sharing my thoughts on the very popular K18 leave in mask

Since its launch in 2021, the K18 leave in mask has been EVERYWHERE. Everybody and their mama and best friend in the hair community has tried K18 by now so when it finally appeared in one of the advent calendars I was so excited.

K18 is a peptide leave in mask that promises to work in just 4 mins on all hair types and textures reversing damage from heat, chemical services and bleaching/coloring. You are directed to use it 4-6 times consecutively for progressive results then switch to maintenance use

Experience

I used K18 as directed for the 1st time back in 2024 and I HATED it! I hated it so much that I didn’t use it again until March 2026- LMAO. It left my hair so dry and CRUSTY and it felt weird not rinsing it out or not using a conditioner. I think I have PTSD lol because how can still remember this almost 2 years later LOL

Anyways this year I was really determined to finish and give it another chance so I did a bit more research on 4c hair use and a lot of people use as directed but follow up with a mask for hydration so I thought to try that. So in March I used it 4 times consecutively, leave it in for 4 mins before following with a mask, I used the Amika hydrorush mask left on for additional 20 mins before washing it out. I took a break in April as it was then time for my usual Olapex treatments- I didn’t want to use them together in the same wash day. I also then had a wig on for holiday. I used the last bit last week.

Usage is pretty easy: after washing and towel drying my hair, I split my hair into 4 sections, use a pump and a bit per section and cover with a shower cap. The texture is lightweight and feels like a lotion so it spreads well. it is not slippery so I didnt even try to detangle with it

Results

In total K18 lasted about 5 wash days. 1st time in 2024, in March 26- 4 weekly washes then final use last week but there was only a little left and it did half my head

Honestly I don’t know if it did anything to my hair. I was sure to pair it with masks I was already familiar with so I could tell if there was any additional benefits. My hair didn’t feel any different in March after using it weekly. I had my routine trim in April and I was told I have a few travelling split ends and some damage and I immediately thought but I’ve been using k18? I don’t think they explicitly say it repairs split ends but I feel my damage might be from heat? back in feb I got the wavy talk thermal brush and I may have abused it on my fine hair lol so if k18 repairs heat damage then shouldn’t my hair app have gone differently?

Verdict

I don’t know. I don’t feel like my hair is any different after k18 use. I have now finished the bottle, I had the 50ml size. I might have been heavy handed as it lasted 5 washes. I wont buy this again, I think for now I will stick to Olapex as my standard bonding treatment.

K18 is available from SpaceNK from£30

Dr Melaxin Peel Shot Exfoliating Black Rice Ampoule Review

 
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Dr Melaxin Peel Shot Exfoliating Black Rice Ampoule Review

I was completely influenced into buying the Dr Melaxin Peel Shot Exfoliating Black Rice Ampoule when I spotted it on the Boots Instagram feed where somebody was demonstrating it in store.

She applied a few drops onto dry skin and started rubbing it in, and all these little balls started forming on the skin, looking very much like dead skin cells lifting away instantly. It was one of those oddly satisfying skincare moments that makes you immediately add to basket. So obviously, I ordered it.

Here’s everything you need to know.

Here’s a quick demo of the Dr.Melaxin Peel Shot Exfoliating Black Rice Ampoule in action:

What is Dr Melaxin Peel Shot Exfoliating Black Rice Ampoule?

What is Dr Melaxin Peel Shot Exfoliating Black Rice Ampoule?
What is Dr Melaxin Peel Shot Exfoliating Black Rice Ampoule?

The Dr Melaxin Peel Shot Exfoliating Black Rice Ampoule is a Korean exfoliating treatment designed to smooth texture, remove dry skin and leave the complexion looking fresh and polished.

It combines gentle exfoliating acids with hydrating ingredients and a cellulose-based formula that creates that signature “rolling” effect on the skin as you massage it in.

The formula contains ingredients including black rice extract, gluconolactone (PHA), salicylic acid, niacinamide, glycerin and squalane, so while there is definitely a bit of theatre involved with the rolling texture, there are also genuine exfoliating and skin-smoothing ingredients in here too.

Key Ingredients

PENTA-RICE Complex – combines Rice Water Extract with PENTAVITIN to exfoliate, soften and hydrate the skin all at the same time. I think this is one of the reasons the Dr Melaxin Peel Shot Exfoliating Black Rice Ampoule leaves skin feeling smooth and polished without that tight or stripped sensation you can sometimes get after exfoliating.

Rice Water Extract – helps to soften the skin and gently refine texture while also keeping excess oil in balance. It gives the complexion that fresh, smooth and really clean feeling after use.

PENTAVITIN – hydrating ingredient that acts almost like a moisture magnet for the skin.

AHA + BHA – exfoliating acid blend helps lift away dead skin cells, smooth rough texture and encourage skin renewal. I think this combination works really nicely because you get effective exfoliation without the formula feeling too aggressive.

Niacinamide – helps support brightness, clarity and overall skin smoothness. It also helps give the skin that fresh, refined look after rinsing everything away.

How to use it

Dr Melaxin Peel Shot Exfoliating Black Rice Ampoule pipette dispenser
Dr Melaxin Peel Shot Exfoliating Black Rice Ampoule pipette dispenser

You apply the Dr Melaxin Peel Shot Exfoliating Black Rice Ampoule onto clean, dry skin and massage it gently over the face. As you work it in, the product starts to form little balls that roll across the skin before you rinse everything away with lukewarm water.

I have used it a few times so far and I use it straight after cleansing. If you are looking for a good cleanser, check out Best Cleansers for 2026 for all Skin Types & Budgets.

My Review

Dr Melaxin Peel Shot Exfoliating Black Rice Ampoule texture
Dr Melaxin Peel Shot Exfoliating Black Rice Ampoule texture

I have to say, the whole exfoliating “balling up” thing is extremely satisfying. I applied a few drops onto dry skin exactly as demonstrated online and started massaging it over my face. Pretty quickly, the formula started rolling up into little pieces and it genuinely feels like you are removing layers of dead skin.

However, and this is important, I absolutely do not think that is dead skin or gunk as many of the viral videos suggest. I think this is down to the Cellulose (which appears quite high up the ingredient list) that clumps together and forms those little balls that make it feel as though you are physically buffing away dead skin. It’s actually

This type of product is often referred to as a “gommage” exfoliator – remember the amazing Gatineau one*? The cellulose physically balls up during massage and helps create that satisfying exfoliating effect on the skin.

Is it a gimmick?

A little bit. But also… not entirely. As well as the cellulose which balls up to create a gentle physical exfoliation, the formula also contains proper exfoliating ingredients including PHA (Gluconolactone) and AHA (salicylic acid), so it is genuinely exfoliating the skin at the same time. For me, the important thing is the result, and the results are pretty good.

My skin felt very smooth afterwards. Not stripped, not tight, not sensitised, just properly polished and soft. It gives the skin that very clean, fresh, shiny look without making it feel over-exfoliated.

It works really well on flaky areas and dry patches and helps remove that rough surface texture that can make makeup sit unevenly. If your foundation has been catching on dry patches or clinging to texture, this works brilliantly at smoothing everything out beforehand.

One slightly odd thing I noticed was that in a couple of areas, the product seemed to cling onto the tiny hairs on my face and almost bind itself to them. I had to remove the little bits and a few hairs definitely came away with it. It wasn’t painful or irritating, just a bit strange, and I thought worth mentioning if you have peach fuzz or facial hair.

Who is it best for?

I think this is especially good for:

  • Rough or textured skin
  • Dry flaky patches
  • Dull skin
  • Congested skin
  • Anyone who loves instantly satisfying skincare

If you are very sensitive or using strong actives like tretinoin, I’d probably use this cautiously.

Final Verdict

The Dr Melaxin Peel Shot Exfoliating Black Rice Ampoule absolutely taps into that viral “look how much stuff is coming off my face” skincare trend, and yes, the rolling effect is definitely part science and part theatre.

But honestly? I still really like it. It leaves my skin feeling smooth, fresh and polished without irritation, and I can completely understand why people get hooked on using it. If you enjoy exfoliating products that give immediate gratification, this is a very fun one to try. I’d avoid over using it though.

Where to buy it

Dr Melaxin Peel Shot Exfoliating Black Rice Ampoule is £21 for 80ml and is available now via the links below:

Dr Melaxin Peel Shot Exfoliating Black Rice Ampoule FAQs

Does Dr Melaxin Peel Shot Exfoliating Black Rice Ampoule really remove dead skin?

The Dr Melaxin Peel Shot creates a rolling effect on the skin that helps physically exfoliate and smooth texture. While not all of the rolled product is dead skin, the formula does leave skin feeling very soft and polished.

How often should you use it?

I think the Dr Melaxin Peel Shot Exfoliating Black Rice Ampoule is best used once or twice weekly depending on your skin type and sensitivity levels.

Is Dr Melaxin Peel Shot Exfoliating Black Rice Ampoule suitable for sensitive skin?

It is gentler than many acid exfoliators, however, sensitive skin types should patch test first because it contains exfoliating acids and fragrance.

Is it good for dry skin?

Yes, especially if you struggle with flaky patches or rough texture. It leaves the skin feeling very smooth without stripping away moisture.

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