The nectar note

What I Call “My Holy Grail of Skincare”

Hihi my tulips 🌷!

In today’s post I shall share the products I’ll stay loyal to for the rest of my life, my “holy grail” the ones that leave my skin feeling the best, energized, and glowing.

🌟Before getting into the products, a quick disclaimer: I have what’s considered “normal” skin, which means that my skin is neither too oily or too dry, with a few sensitivities/reactions and breakouts (you can read more about the different skin types under “skincare” there is a post called “What Is Your Skin Type?” explaining everything you need to know about which skin type you may be). Through this post, you will see product details about the ingredients, their benefits, and how they may be applied. With that being said please remember that everyone’s skin is different, your experiences and reactions may vary depending on your skin type.🌟

(P.S. if you click on the names of the products it will take you directly to the link of the brand and product with further details)

Product #1

SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Tea-Trica Relief Ampoule

What Is The Product:
Skin1004 defines their product as “A non-comedogenic ampoule with Tea tree, Pine tree, and Cypress that helps care for blemish-prone skin and maintain a healthy-looking complexion”.

  • No Artificial Fragrances
  • EWG Green Grade
  • Peta Vegan & Cruelty Free

Non-comeodogenic means products that are formulated specifically to not cause blocked pores.

  • Tea Tree: soothes irritations, reduces redness, swelling, and itching.
  • Pine Tree: cleanses the face barrier and removes impurities for healthier skin repair.
  • Cypress: fights sebum production, prevents acne blemishes, and minimizes the appearance of pores.

Full List of Ingredients: 
Centella Asiatica Extract, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Water, Pinus Palustris Leaf Extract, Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Flower Extract, Chamaecyparis Obtusa Water

How To Use:
Day/Night, apply an appropriate amount evenly on skin and pat for absorption.

Product Sizes:
30 ml / 100 ml

Product Benefits:
Calming and Minimizes Blemishes

Product Texture:
Lightweight, Non-Sticky Formula

Skin Type:
Oily, acne prone, and sensitive skin

My Experience:
I use the 100 ml bottle, and I’m currently on my third repurchase of this serum. I apply it every night as part of my nighttime skincare routine, right after cleansing and toner. I usually use about two drops, one drop on my left and one drop on my right cheek and it has significantly reduced my blemishes when they appear, especially during my period. I sometimes get cystic acne during that time due to hormonal changes, so this product has become a must use in my routine. Whenever I use it, you can really notice a visible difference in the size and irritation of the pimple by the next morning. I truly love this product, always recommend it especially for those hormonal acne blemishes and cysts. Even though it’s marketed for oily skin, I’ve never experienced any negative reactions, and it works very well for my skin type.

Where to Buy:
Based on where I am able to find the product in New York and New Jersey.

  • Skin1004 (Online Site)
  • Ulta
  • Kosette Beauty Market
  • senti senti
  • K-Beauty Outlet
  • Kiokii

Product #2

AXIS-Y Dark Spot Correcting Glow Serum

What Is The Product:
AXIS-Y describes their product as “Formulated to go beyond basic dark spot care.” This is a serum that combines 5% Niacinamide with Squalane and other ingredients to support hydration, improve dullness, provide antioxidants, and improves discoloration of skin.

  • No Parabens, Artificial Fragrances, Mineral Oils, and Artificial Colors
  • Certified Vegan Skincare & Cruelty-Free

Full List of Ingredients: 
Water, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Sodium Hyaluronate, Propanediol, Erythritol, Butylene Glycol, Squalane, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Extract, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, Carica Papaya (Papaya) Fruit Extract, Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Extract, Malpighia Glabra (Acerola)Fruit Extract, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Chlorphenesin, Arginine, Ethylhexylglycerin, Carbomer, Glutathione, 1,2-Hexanediol, Hydroxypropyl Cyclodextrin, Disodium EDTA, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Allantoin, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil

How To Use:
Day/Night, apply an appropriate amount evenly on skin or affected areas and pat for absorption.

Product Size:
50ml / 1.69 fl oz.

Product Benefits:
Brightens and Soothes

Product Texture:
Lightweight, Fast-Absorbing

Skin Type:
All skin types

My Experience:
I usually use this serum during my nighttime skincare routine, especially after my blemishes begin to fade. My skin tends to turn the redness from breakouts into dark spots, so I did some research and came across this serum, and I haven’t switched since. However, I would say consistency is key to seeing results. I didn’t notice much of a difference until about the third time I used it. However, over time it slowly helps fade dark spots and discoloration. I think what sold me on this product was the texture, it didn’t feel sticky when applying because at times formulations for these serums can have thick consistencies.

Where to Buy:
Based on where I am able to find the product in New York and New Jersey.

  • AXIS-Y (Online Site)
  • Target
  • Olive Young Beauty
  • Kosette Beauty Market
  • senti senti
  • K-Beauty Outlet
  • Kiokii

Product #3

Biodance Overnight Masks 4pk

They are hypoallergenic, high-concentration hydrogel masks is designed to provide intense hydration, deep pore tightening, improve elasticity, skin renewal, and even skin tone. Each mask has their own personal formula with their set of active ingredients and depending on which one you want to use, you can easily plan your treatment to aim your specific skin concerns and you can personalize it to your routine whether you want to apply it during the day or night.

Full List of Ingredients

  • Bio Collagen Real Deep Mask
    • Main Ingredients
      • Low-Molecular Weight Collagen Peptide
      • Galactomyces
      • Oligo Hyaluronic Acid
      • Niacinamide
    • Full List
      • Water, Glycerin, Acrylates Copolymer, Niacinamide, Ceratonia Siliqua (Carob) Gum, Chondrus Crispus Extract, Dipropylene Glycol, Betaine, Algin, Agar, Hydroxyacetophenone, 1,2-Hexanediol, Potassium Chloride, Caprylyl Glycol, Sucrose, Allantoin, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate, Adenosine, Disodium EDTA, Pyrus Communis (Pear) Fruit Extract, Rosa Damascena Flower Water, Collagen Extract, Iris Florentina Root Extract, Cucumis Melo (Melon) Fruit Extract, Hedera Helix (Ivy) Leaf/Stem Extract, Butylene Glycol, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Lactobacillus Ferment, Bifida Ferment Filtrate, Lactobacillus Ferment Lysate, Tocopherol
  • Hydro Cera-Nol Real Deep Mask
    • Main Ingredients
      • Low-Molecular Weight Collagen Peptide
      • Galactomyces
      • Oligo Hyaluronic Acid
      • Niacinamide
    • Full List
      • Water, Dipropylene Glycol, Glycerin, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Niacinamide, Xanthan Gum, Ceratonia Siliqua (Carob) Gum, Chondrus Crispus, Betaine, Panthenol, Hydroxyacetophenone, Ethylhexyl Olivate, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Potassium Chloride, Caprylyl Glycol, Butylene Glycol, Cellulose Gum, 1,2-Hexanediol, Sucrose, Polyacrylate-13, Sodium Acrylates Copolymer, Glyceryl Stearate, Algin, Chondrus Crispus Extract, Glucomannan, Polyglyceryl-4 Oleate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, Adenosine, Pyrus Communis (Pear) Fruit Extract, Disodium EDTA, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Rosa Damascena Flower Water, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Allantoin, Iris Florentina Root Extract, Sorbitan Isostearate, Cucumis Melo (Melon) Fruit Extract, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Hedera Helix (Ivy) Leaf/Stem Extract, Dextrin, Cetearyl Alcohol, Stearic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Collagen Extract, Coriandrum Sativum (Coriander) Extract, Foeniculum Vulgare (Fennel) Seed Extract, Elettaria Cardamomum Seed Extract, Crocus Sativus Flower Extract, Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate, Ceramide NP, Tocopherol, Ceramide NS, Cholesterol, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Phytosphingosine, Ceramide AP, Ceramide AS, Hyaluronic Acid, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Potassium Hyaluronate, Ceramide EOP
  • Radiant Vita Niacinamide Real Deep Mask
    • Main Ingredients
      • Low-Molecular Weight Collagen Peptide
      • Galactomyces
      • Oligo Hyaluronic Acid
      • Niacinamide
    • Full List
      • Water, Ananas Sativus (Pineapple) Fruit Water, Glycerin, Acrylates Copolymer, Niacinamide, 1,2-Hexanediol, Ceratonia Siliqua (Carob) Gum, Betaine, Chondrus Crispus, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Potassium Chloride, Sucrose, Polyglyceryl-2 Triisostearate, Allantoin, Agar, Cellulose Gum, Ethylhexylglycerin, Butylene Glycol, Adenosine, Pyrus Communis (Pear) Fruit Extract, Sclerotium Gum, Disodium EDTA, Rosa Damascena Flower Water, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract, Iris Florentina Root Extract, Ananas Sativus (Pineapple) Fruit Extract, Hippophae Rhamnoides Oil, Cucumis Melo (Melon) Fruit Extract, Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract, Hedera Helix (Ivy) Leaf/Stem Extract, Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract, Corallina Officinalis Extract, Tocopherol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Gluconolactone, Boron Nitride, Caprylyl Glycol, Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate, Glutathione, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Hyaluronic Acid, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Potassium Hyaluronate
  • Refreshing Sea Kelp Real Deep Mask
    • Main Ingredients
      • Low-Molecular Weight Collagen Peptide
      • Galactomyces
      • Oligo Hyaluronic Acid
      • Niacinamide
    • Full List
      • Water(Aqua), Lactobacillus/Kelp Ferment Filtrate, Glycerin, Dipropylene Glycol, Acrylates Copolymer, Ceratonia Siliqua (Carob) Gum, Chondrus Crispus, Sea Water, Betaine, Algin, Agar, Hydroxyacetophenone, 1,2-Hexanediol, Potassium Chloride, Sucrose, Caprylyl Glycol, Laminaria Digitata Water, Allantoin, Xanthan Gum, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Disodium EDTA, Pyrus Communis (Pear) Fruit Extract, Citric Acid, Rosa Damascena Flower Water, Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract, Iris Florentina Root Extract, Butylene Glycol, Cucumis Melo (Melon) Fruit Extract, Hedera Helix (Ivy) Leaf/Stem Extract, Laminaria Japonica Extract, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Kjellmaniella Gyrata Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract, Bifida Ferment Lysate, Lactose, Lactobacillus Ferment, Spirulina Platensis Extract, Jania Rubens Extract, Tocopherol, Panthenol, Madecassoside

How To Use:
Day/Night, For overnight you can apply the mask at the end of your skincare and leave it on until the morning. For daytime, after cleansing and toner apply the mask and leave it on for 3-4 hours or until it becomes transparent.

Product Size:
1.19 oz (34g) bottle of ampoule 

Product Benefits

  • Bio Collagen Real Deep Mask
    • Deep Hydration and Pore Tightening & Firming
  • Hydro Cera-Nol Real Deep Mask
    • Soothe and Repairs Skin Barrier
  • Radiant Vita Niacinamide Real Deep Mask
    • Dark Spot Correcting and Gentle Exfoliator
  • Refreshing Sea Kelp Real Deep Mask
    • Reduces Redness and Controls Excess Sebum

Product Texture:
Gel, Soothing

Skin Type:

  • Bio Collagen Real Deep Mask
    • all skin types
  • Hydro Cera-Nol Real Deep Mask
    • all skin types
  • Radiant Vita Niacinamide Real Deep Mask
    • all skin types
  • Refreshing Sea Kelp Real Deep Mask
    • all skin types (very beneficial for oily and acne-prone skin)

My Experience:
These are one of my favorite masks. Every time I use one, my skin feels completely refreshed and looks super shiny. No matter which specific formulation I choose, I have gotten many compliments on how my skin looks and the results are always the same, soft and glowing. I usually leave these masks on overnight (p.s. your skin absorbs the product better overnight) or when traveling, I never travel without these. Flights always make me feel so tired and dehydrated, especially the longer ones but these masks save me every time. I apply these 3 hours before landing and when done skin looks good as new.

Where to Buy:
Based on where I am able to find the product in New York and New Jersey.

  • Sephora
  • Biodance (Online Site)
  • Kosette Beauty Market
  • K-Beauty Outlet

Product #4

Dr. Althea 345 Relief Cream

What Is The Product:
Dr. Althea’s 345 Relief Cream is described as “clinically tested as non-comedogenic, vegan gel cream that is rich in nutrients formulated to target blemishes, nourish the skin, and deliver soothing care.

How To Use: 
After cleansing and applying your toner and serums, apply a small amount over your face (I usually use two medium-sized dots, plenty goes a long way!) You would want to use this as the final step in your nighttime routine, or just before sunscreen during your daytime routine. Just be sure to spread it evenly for the best results.

Full List of Ingredients: 
Aqua (Water), Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Water, Propanediol, Glycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Hydrogenated Polydecene, Vinyl Dimethicone, C14-22 Alcohols, Niacinamide, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Panthenol, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Butylene Glycol, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Vp Copolymer, Caprylyl Methicone, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, C12-20 Alkyl Glucoside, Hydroxyacetophenone, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Polyquaternium-51, Ethylhexylglycerin, Tromethamine, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Coptis Japonica Root Extract, Centella Asiatica Leaf Water, Beta-Glucan, Resveratrol, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Water, Tocopherol, Madecassoside, Sodium Dna, Centella Asiatica Extract, Ceramide Np, Tannic Acid, Disodium Edta, Sodium Phytate

Product Size:
50 ml 

Product Benefits:
Soothes, Improves Skin Texture, Improves Dullness, and Moisturizes

Product Texture:
Lightweight, Non-Sticky Formula

Skin Type:
All skin types including sensitive, acne-prone skin

My Experience:
This is the best hydrating layer to prep your skin for makeup. I’ve made it a staple in both my morning and night routines, and adding it was easily one of the best decisions I’ve made for my skin, I’m already starting my second bottle! I used to wear the Torriden Moisturizer, but after reading about the new product and looking at review videos I can say that honestly, the hype is real. Its smooth, liquid texture says it all. It’s just the best on no-makeup or workout days, keeping my skin deeply hydrated and fresh.

Where to Buy:
Based on where I am able to find the product in New York and New Jersey.

  • Ulta
  • Dr. Althea (Online Site)
  • Kiokii

Product #5

Hero Mighty Patch Micropoint™ XL for Blemishes

What Is The Product:
Hero Might Patch Micropoint XL are hydrocolloid acne patches that contain 1,385 tiny micropoints gently targeting, blemish clusters on the chin, jawline, and cheeks such as cysts. All of their patches are clinically tested and non-irritating.

Hydrocolloid is used as treatment of wounds (in this case blemishes) and forms a gel-like protective layer, absorbs, and creates a hydrating base that heals.

How To Use: 
First cleanse and dry the affected area and then place the patch and leave it on for about 6-8 hours.

Full List of Ingredients: 
Sodium Hyaluronate, Water, Niacinamide, Butylene Glycol, Salicylic Acid, Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract, Madecassoside, Centella Asiatica Extract, Pentylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Sodium Dehydroacetate.

Product Size:
6 patches (43mm length x 24mm height)

Product Benefits:
Reduce Inflammation, Unclogs Pores, Brightens, and Hydrates

Product Texture:
Thick, Transparent, Gel-like

Skin Type:
All skin types

My Experience:
These patches are my go-to for cystic breakouts. They are effective at taking out all the “gunk,” which helps minimize the size of the blemish and speed up healing. When paired with the Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Tea-Trica Relief Ampoule, it creates the best duo/combo for calming irritation and making blemishes disappear in record time. For smaller blemishes, I also recommend their Mighty Patch Original (the red packaging), they work just as well!

Where to Buy:
Based on where I am able to find the product in New York and New Jersey.

  • Ulta
  • Walgreens
  • CVS
  • Sephora
  • Target
  • Hero (Online Site)

Product #6

Eucerin Age Defense SPF 50 Face Sunscreen

What Is The Product:
Eucerin Age Defencse spf 50 Sunscreen states that the product “protects the skin from sun damage while reducing the look of fine lines and wrinkles with a science-backed face sunscreen.”

  • Free of fragrances, dyes, parabens, PABA, phthalates, oxybenzone, and octinoxate
  • Hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic

How To Use: 
Daily alone or under makeup.

Full List of Ingredients

  • Active Ingredients
    • Avobenzone (3%), Homosalate (10%), Octisalate (5%), Octocrylene (10%)
  • In-active Ingredients
    • 5 AOX Shield antioxidant complex (including Glycyrrhetinic Acid, Glycyrrhiza Inflata Root Extract, and Vitamin E). Water, Alcohol Denat., Silica, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), and others. 

Product Size:
SPF 50, 2.5 fl oz (75 ml)

Product Benefits:
UVA/UVB Sun Protection, Reduces Fine Lines and Wrinkles, and Hydrates

Product Texture:
Not Heavy, but neither lightweight (Right In-between)

Skin Type:
All skin types (normal, combination, dry, oily)

My Experience:
I’ve been using to this sunscreen for years since high school. It’s one of the few that never has irritated my skin or messes with my makeup. However, recently I will say I have swapped it with another sunscreen due to the winter since my skin tends to get extremely dry. However, during the summer when I need the most protection from the sun, Eucerin is the one I lean on (their body version too).

Where to Buy:
Based on where I am able to find the product in New York and New Jersey.

  • Target
  • Wallgreens
  • CVS
  • Eucerin (Online Site)

These products have been my favorites essentials no matter if recently discovered and became new essentials or if since I first started my skincare journey. Through skincare, I’ve learned that finding what works for your skin is a unique journey, but I’ve truly loved the process. Also, I realized how much I love products that soothe, reduce redness and reliefs the skin as I made the list (hehehe). By the way, the products listed are travel-friendly; most follow the 3.4 fl oz carry-on guidelines, and several are available in smaller travel sizes (except for the face masks, they are obvious exception to that rule!).

Now my tulips, I have a question for you… What are your “holy grail” skincare essentials?

Until next time🌷

xoxo, Mari