Sponsored Review
The answer is a resounding yes… with a huge BUT!
But what you ask?
Enzymes are great for exfoliation and anti-inflammation. They destroy the keratin protein on the upper layers of the skin to reveal smoother skin and also act as filters against damaging sun rays, environmental pollutants and even acne.
However, they are very picky about their environment and only function optimally at certain temperatures and pH. 🙁
But guess what? It’s not the end of the world yet because Dr Bragi has come up with a unique marine enzyme technology that overturns the ‘traditional enzyme theory’.
Well, the doctor knows best. Click to learn more about this revolutionary technology and its products. So early last week, I was sent these Dr Bragi product samples.
Dr Bragi Bio Marine Exfoliant
Dr Bragi Age Management Moisturiser
Dr Bragi Intensive Treatment Mask
Honestly, I didn’t think Dr Bragi was anything special since there are many products out there that are formulated by doctors. But when I read the brochures that came with them, I was truly intrigued with the state-of-the-art technology behind it.
The brand was founded by the late Dr. Jón Bragi Bjarnason PhD who was a Professor of Biochemistry at the University of Iceland and one of the World’s leading enzymologists.
The diverse marine life of Iceland’s abundant sea waters inspired Dr Bragi to scientifically explore marine enzymes. He dedicated his life to the study and therapeutic application of marine enzymes, achieving numerous awards, as well as global patents for his discoveries.
Clinical evidence of their effectiveness compelled Dr Bragi to develop a unique line of skincare based on this advanced marine enzyme technology.
Fusing marine biochemistry with pure, natural and effective ingredients, Dr Bragi’s formulations are driven by clinical studies, visible results and backed up by decades of scientific research.
Dr Bragi’s marine enzyme products optimise cell function, keeping the skin as young and healthy as possible. This enhances the skin’s natural rejuvenating mechanisms so effectively there is little need for other products. Dr Bragi delivers the most innovative, effective and safest formulas on the market.
Most skin care products contain a vast number of unnecessary ingredients that look, feel and smell great but in reality offer no benefits whatsoever and can in fact cause more harm than good.
Dr Bragi formulations however, belong to an entirely different league of products, as they contain absolutely none of the following:
NO artificial preservatives NO parabens NO perfumes NO silicones NO glycols NO dyes NO lipids NO lanolin
The Dr Bragi approach to skincare…
In scientific terms, the word activity is defined as ‘having a biological effect on something’. Many products boast about ‘activity’ and transforming the skin but few are supported by empirical clinical data.
Enzymes are essential protein molecules that dramatically speed up cellular processes in all living beings and the same goes for marine enzymes – Dr Bragi products possess a genuine enzymatic ‘activity’ and visibly promote a beneficial change in your skin to help it look younger and healthier.
Dr Bragi’s patented marine enzymes are like no other cosmetic ingredient available. Unlike other enzymes used in skincare, marine enzymes are adapted to function in the depths of the ocean with temperatures reaching as low as -2°C. When subjected to body temperature, they become ‘super-active’ and more powerful than other enzymes.
These are the full sized products of the samples. I’ve included their photo, description and price information. Scroll down for their info and my thoughts about them.
Dr Bragi Bio Marine Exfoliant
A superior facial exfoliant packed with fossilised diatom algae and Witch Hazel to cleanse, brighten and renew. This simple home treatment acts in a similar way to microdermabrasion by targetting stubborn, congested areas of dead surface skin cells and excess oil (sebum), stimulating cellular renewal, whilst clearing and minimising pores. These minute particles gently exfoliate the epidermis making the skin more receptive to treatments and enhancing the performance of your Dr Bragi marine enzyme moisturiser.
Silica-rich fossilised algae replaces vital minerals to help support the skin’s collagen production. Lime derived AHA gently exfoliates the epidermis, whilst polysaccharides help to tone and lift.
With regular use, this treatment helps to eliminate blackheads, fine lines and uneven and lacklustre skin tone to promote a glowing and blemish-free complexion.
With 98% natural ingredients this product is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive.
How to use: Dispense a small amount onto the fingertips and massage gently onto dry skin, paying special attention to areas with excess oil build-up such as the forehead, nose and chin. Rinse with warm water and pat dry. Follow with a Dr Bragi moisturiser to help balance the skin’s natural oil production and protect from bacteria. Avoid eye contact. For sensitive skin, apply to damp skin.
Ingredients: Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water, Cetearyl Alcohol, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Solum Diatomeae (Diatomaceous Earth), Glyceryl Stearate, Cetearyl Glucoside, Maris Aqua (Sea Water), Sclerotium Gum, Benzyl Alcohol, Citric Acid, Dehydroacetic Acid, Citrus Aurantifolia Oil (Lime Oil), Aqua (Water), Limonene*.
*From natural essential oils
Price: $69.90 (50ml)
Afterthoughts…
Exfoliating your face should never feel like a tractor running over your skin. A good scrub is one that effectively sloughs off nasty dead skin cells without scratching or irritating your skin.
My skin is in a better condition these days – less clogged pores and zits. And I really want it to stay that way. The last thing I need is a harsh exfoliator with jagged edges that cut the skin.
The Dr Bragi Bio Marine Exfoliant contains beads that are so tiny that can’t be seen but can be felt. The first time I used the product, I applied it on my dry skin and started rubbing it as suggested by the packaging instructions. But the friction generated on my dry skin was too much for me to bear so I applied some water on my face before I continue rubbing it.
The final result was squeaky clean skin that looks radiant and happy.
Photos of its texture:
All in all, I think it fulfils my requirements of a good scrub – non-abrasive, effective and free of harmful additives.
3.5 Honeyz crowns!
Dr Bragi Age Management Moisturiser
Dr Bragi’s patented formula combines his unique, ‘super active’ marine enzymes with the added hydrating and plumping abilities of hyaluronic acid. This versatile facial moisturiser helps to reduce the signs of ageing by fighting the effects of environmental stress, preventing the breakdown of collagen and supporting optimal cell function.
With the aid of calming sorbitol and glycerin, this exceptional oil-free moisturiser instantly nourishes the skin, whilst marine enzymes continuously smooth, exfoliate and cleanse from deep within the skin. Enzyme activity can help to dramatically rejuvenate, refine and brighten the complexion, eliminate dark circles and ease the symptoms of problematic skin conditions.
How to use: Less is more! Apply sparingly to cleansed skin using a gentle massaging motion. A pea-sized amount is sufficient for the entire face and neck area and will continuously moisturise throughout the day. Use once in the morning and again before bed. Allow 15 minutes prior to applying an SPF or make-up. Safe to use around the eye contour. Do not use in conjunction with oil or lipid based products.
If your skin feels sticky, you have used too much!
Ingredients: Glycerin, Water (Aqua purificata), Sorbitol, Urea, Alcohol Denat., Carbomer, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Chloride, Tromethamine, Trypsin, Chymotrypsin.
Price: $268.90 (60ml) Afterthoughts…
Glycerin, Sorbitol and Sodium Hyaluronate for hydrating purposes and Alcohol Denat for removing excess oil – just what the doctor ordered. 😛
Combination skin is complicated – it is dry underneath and oily on the surface. And you can’t use products for dry skin or oily skin as they can cause you to break out or dry out which are both bad beauty repercussions. So always look out for products that contain moisturising ingredients that addresses acne or excessive oily skin problems.
I’ve been using this product for five days and I’m happy that it hasn’t added any new zits to my face. Initially, I was actually pretty afraid that it will do so due to its slightly greasy nature. The texture reminds me of
Bio-Essence’s Radiant Youth Essence which feels oily at first touch but quickly melts into the skin, infusing it with intense moisture.
The moisturiser produces a warm and soothing sensation when you massage it over the skin. After application, my skin feels soft, revitalized and flexible – no tight feeling.
4 Honeyz crowns!
Dr Bragi Intensive Treatment Mask
Professional strength marine enzyme mask, as recommended by celebrity make-up artists. This innovative mask is designed to rapidly target redness, dehydration, loss of firmness and signs of premature ageing.
Experience a Dr Bragi treatment from home with this fabric mask, delivering the highest concentration of patented marine enzymes, ensuring outstanding results in an instant. The skin appears plumper, smoother and brighter – ideal for a pre-party rejuvenating boost. Particularly recommended for stressed, fragile or sensitised skin types.
How to use: Use once or twice a week on cleansed skin. Open out the mask and, using your fingertips, place the mask onto the eye contour, carefully smoothing it down to fit the rest of the face. Relax for 10-15 minutes, then remove. Wipe any excess with a tissue.
Use before bedtime for optimal results.
Ingredients: Water (Aqua purificata), Glycerin, Alcohol, Calcium Chloride, Tromethamine, Sodium Acetate, Trypsin, Chymotrypsin.
Price: $21.90 (15ml)
Afterthoughts…
When I removed the mask from its packaging, I was slightly taken aback by its greasy texture that is similar to the Age Management Moisturiser. Don’t think you ever touched an oily mask sheet eh?
Also, most masks feel cold and wet but this one felt slightly warm and oily. The most amazing thing was when I rinsed the essence off my hands, the greasiness disappeared without a trace. I was pretty confused with its consistency – it was greasy, mild yet soothing.
The mask was also not dripping wet like most sheet masks. Here are some photos:
This was my face before application.
Then put it on for 20 minutes and relaxed…
Minion Dave came to join me! Haha!
I thought the mask was slightly oversized but surprisingly it still fit snugly on my face after 20 mins as seen below.
Don’t underestimate the power of this ill-fitting mask because after the 20 minutes, my skin felt more supple like it had absorbed all the nutrients in the mask!
Tadah! Velvety smooth skin!
I’m getting married next year so good skin is definitely on my priority list now. I need a good range of products that hydrates deeply and erases visible creases effectively. So I’m eager to try the products for a longer period of time to see more obvious results.
Meanwhile, 4.5 Honeyz crowns for its hydrating qualities and natural ingredients.
Dr Bragi is available at all Origo Creation retail outlets:
International Plaza 10 Anson Road, International Plaza, #02-87, Singapore 079903. Orchard Central 181 Orchard Road, Orchard Central, #01-17, Singapore 238896. Chinatown Point 133 New Bridge Road, Chinatown Point, #01-37, Singapore 059413 The Adelphi 1 Coleman Street #04-50 Singapore 179803
Exclusive for Honeyz Belles!
Quote ‘Honeyz Reader‘ for 15% off* regular-priced Dr Bragi items at all Origo Creation retail outlets!
*Offer is valid till 31 October 2013.
Have you tried Dr Bragi products too? Let me know by sharing your review at Honeyz Cube! Also, stay abreast of the latest beauty news and product launches with our Honeyz Cube Facebook Page!
Your friend, Juliana
Disclaimer: Please be rest assured that even though the products and services were sponsored, they do not have any bearing on the content of this post. Opinions stated are objective and genuine. Also note that all sources, information, content, links are valid to change at any time