little white truths

I received this sample face mask in sub box recently and I was super pleased to see it because I've tried Zelens skincare before and absolutely loved it, plus at $195 AUD a pop, this 15ml sample is nicely generous and I've been able to get plenty of uses from it.

Unfortunately, however, the product has done nothing for me so I've been left scratching my head a bit. Mind you, plenty of people appear to love this product so it could be one of those situations where a product that does wonders for some just doesn't 'gel' with my skin. More on that below.

Zelens claims/product details:

• An unparalleled anti-aging mask developed by Dr Marko Lens for his tailor-made 'Red Carpet' facials
• Encourages skin renewal with immediately visible results
• Powered with a potent complex of high-performance ingredients, this advanced multi-action mask hydrates, energises, replenishes and revives the skin
• Skin appears softer, firmer and smoother with a noticeably youthful glow
• Instantly renews the skin and visibly restores its vitality
• Intensely moisturises the skin and enhances its youthful elasticity
• Helps to achieve a healthy, glowing and younger-looking complexion
• To use: apply generously to cleansed face, neck and décolleté, avoiding contact with eyes; leave on for 15 minutes, then rinse off with warm water; use one to three times a week or as required
• RRP $195 AUD for 50ml, but do shop around (see eg Beautybay)

I've almost finished my tube now (I have perhaps one or two uses left) so it's definitely time to review this product and give you my thoughts. 

Worth noting straight up is that I have dry/dehydrated skin and I'm really picky with my face masks, so unless they do something amazing, I don't love using them because I just don't have the time to put them on and wait for them to work: with two young kids, it's lucky I find the time for my regular skincare so masks are an extra step that aren't so easy to squeeze in.

This product is a creamy gel in texture that looks a little pearly - kind of like a shampoo. It spreads and applies well, and it feels a bit sticky to the touch as it dries down. It does have a very slight scent - I smell something like shea butter - but it's not strong or unnatural so I suspect it won't bother most people.

Each time I've used this, I've left it on for at least 15 minutes and often closer to 30, and each time I've noticed absolutely no difference in my skin - I couldn't even say that it hydrates a little because it doesn't, or at least it doesn't for me.

Now I've just had a look at some reviews and I've seen a few people say that this doesn't work for them unless they leave it on for at least a couple of hours, and even overnight. I'm wishing that I'd read those reviews before going through so much of my tube! So what I'll do now is use the last application or two as an overnight mask and if I see any difference, I'll update this review.

But I wanted to go ahead and post on this product anyway because, if something that costs almost $200 says it will work after fifteen minutes, then by golly it should do that. And if it can be used as an overnight mask for better results, then that should be noted in the product instructions - we shouldn't have to read a bundle of reviews to find other suggestions for using it.

So in sum, I've given this mask a 'disappointing products' tag because I don't feel it meets any of its claims when used as directed. This annoys me because it costs so much and I haven't seen 'immediately visible' results: indeed I haven't seen any results at all. Sad face!

Hoh well, my wallet is happy that I don't love this ; )