“The time has come,” the beauty editor said, “to talk of many things: of summer mist and aged essences, that give your skin wings ?” I’ve been rereading a classic and wanted to put my own spin to it.
A while ago, I was selected by @bemusedkorea to review the @atoclassic set which has felt like I was in wonderland in both a great and not so great ways, so the quote feels fitting.
What drew me to this brand is both the packaging and history. Atoclassic uses herbal skincare practices better known as Hanbang. Through 100 years of research, the brand takes herbal skincare and treats hidden issues.
The Atoclassic Real Tonic Soothing Origin Essence uses 20 different herbs to penetrate the skin’s nourish and restore skin from the inside out. The key ingredient is golden chamomile which works along with the body to increase the skin’s defense while calm the skin.
PRO: The traditional medicinal herbs smell and feel great during application.
CON: This essence is the most unbuildable, unlayer-able formula I’ve ever owned. I was so disappointed with how it clumps during routine steps. It’s really dramatic used after an emulsion/lotion, I’m talking clumping. If put on right a toner it can settle but I’ve waited a full minute before I going on.
The Atoclassic Real Tonic Soothing Moist Mist hydrates, soothes and helps the skin retain moisture. Made with the medicinal herb, Coptis Chinensis (gold thread), it produces anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties to the skin during daily use.
PRO: The mist is calming and perfect during a really hot day in Cali.
CON: I think due to Cheongdamsu, its distillation method which preserves ingredients, the liquid was herbal but oily. After a couple sprays and pats, it would leave an oil base residue. This was common in the afternoon. With combination skin, I tend, to be a bit oily midday. Used on a fresh face I didn’t experience it but mists are generally used whenever. The spray nozzle was rough too, water gun rough.
In the end, I’m thankful for the opportunity from @bemused and @atoclassic and I hope my honesty isn’t discouraging. I didn’t have the experienced I’d hope for and reviewers may not have the same opinions. Used with the entire line I bet it’s amazing but for me…well the story has come to an end.