Round Lab Pine Calming Cica Toner, Review

Naya

1 hour ago

3 min read

Round Lab Pine Calming Cica Toner Review

calm and relaxation

Foreword

Round Lab made multiple appearances on this blog, and for good reason. Previously, we chatted about the bestselling Birch Juice Moisturizing Sunscreen (reviewed here), Birch Moisturizing Cream (read more here), Mugwort Calming Toner (read more here), Pine Calming Cica Ampoule (read more here), 1025 Dokdo Lotion (reviewed here), and Birch Juice Moisturizing Cleanser (read more here). Today we are taking a closer look at the Pine Calming Cica Toner. Does it deserve a spot in your skincare routine?

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My Skin: dry, sensitive

About the Product

Round Lab Pine Calming Cica Toner (25 USD; Made in Korea) - is part of the brand's Pine Cica line, developed with sensitive skin in mind. This product promises to soothe redness and irritation, while helping to improve rough skin texture.

PACKAGING

Every range that Round Lab carries has its distinctive visual identity. The Pine Cica line, known for its skin soothing properties, features an imagery of a girl relaxing in a hammock, surrounded by lush pine trees. The bottle contains a generous 250 ml/ 8.45 fl oz of product. Both bottle and the outer box display the manufacturing and expiration dates, which is a thoughtful detail.

Recyclable ♻️

FORMULA

The Pine Calming Cica Toner is a water-based formula that contains various humectants, Centella Asiatica derivatives, botanical extracts, and gentle exfoliating ingredients.

😊 PROS

The formula features high concentrations of Propanediol, Glycerin, and Butylene Glycol to both hydrate and support absorption of other ingredients. Hydroxyacetophenone acts as a potent antioxidant, while Centella Asiatica Extract helps soothe irritations and support the skin barrier's recovery. Pinus Densiflora Leaf Extract acts as an antioxidant, while Citric Acid offers mild exfoliation alongside Gluconolactone (PHA) and Capryloyl Salicylic Acid. To further boost hydration, the formula contains three types of Hyaluronic Acid. Cica-related ingredients, including Asiatic Acid, Madecassoside, and Madecassic Acid appear towards the bottom of the list, suggesting a relatively smaller concentration.

☹️ CONS

Although most Round Lab products are well-suited for people with sensitive skin, botanical extracts may still cause irritation in some individuals. I would recommend checking the full ingredient list before buying.

Personally, I did not experience any irritations while using the product.

Cruelty-free🐇

TEXTURE

The toner has a water-like consistency. Although it appears green-ish in the bottle, it goes on completely clear.

SCENT

The formula is fragrance-free.

APPLICATION

Apply the Pine Calming Cica Toner after cleansing. Ideally at night-time (since it contains mild exfoliants).

first impression

This toner is like water: lightweight, non-greasy, and sinks quickly into the skin leaving you with a natural-matte finish. My skin feels refreshed and soothed. However, I wouldn't say the Pine Calming Cica Toner provides much hydration.

long-term use

Hydration may not be this formula's strongest trait, but after testing the Pine Calming Cica Toner over an extended period of time, I can say that it does a good job at calming redness and irritation. It layers well with most skincare products I have paired it with and feels gentle on sensitive skin. It will not work miracles overnight, but over a few days I have noticed a visible improvement. I tend to reach for this toner on days when my skin needs a little extra TLC.

If your skin is extra dry, you will need to follow up with a rich, dense cream to compensate for the lack of moisture. For daily use, this formula may be better suited for people with combination and oily skin types.

Verdict

The Pine Calming Cica Toner is a gentle, easy-to-use formula that helps soothe and protect the skin. In my opinion, the inclusion of five types of Cica is a great idea, as they work together to promote a well-balanced complexion. While it is not an absolute must-have, this formula could be a game-changer for anyone dealing with easily irritated skin. My only complaint is its lack of hydration. I wish it were a bit more nourishing. On the other hand, those with combination and oily skin types will likely appreciate its exceptionally light feel. Overall, it is a well-formulated calming toner that earns a B in my book.