little white truths

Nella Fantasia claims/product details:

• An all-in-one pore toning gel
• Formulated to control excess sebum, oil and blackheads by refining and tightening enlarged pores
• Nourishing, soothing and anti-ageing
• Moisurises deep into skin and protects skin
• Feel freshness after application
• Helps skin's elasticity
• Contains glacial milk with rich minerals
• Main ingredients: witch hazel extract, grapefruit, persimmon extract, white willow extract, jasmine oil, cabbage rose oil and lemon oil
• Store in the fridge for better results
• RRP $34USD for 180ml, but do shop around

Verdict

The more I use this, the more I like it.

It's a clear gel that spreads very thinly so you only need to use the smallest amount. I wouldn't want to use too much anyway, in fear that it might interfere with my moisturiser's ability to absorb.

It has a very faint, clean and icy scent that's almost undetectable so you could almost call this fragrance free. It's a product that's in for the long haul because there's so much of it, so while it's on the expensive side, it's good value because it will last for ages.

I do think it tones well - it leaves your skin feeling fresher and tighter - but it's not a product I would buy because I prefer liquid toners that you use with a cotton pad. I prefer those because the cotton pad invariably looks a little dirty after use, no matter how well I've cleansed, so I know the last layer of gunk is removed and this product doesn't achieve that because you apply it as you would a moisturiser.

As for claims, if I see one more 'pore tightening' (or shrinking or minimising or reducing) claim I may well tear my hair out: your pores are your pores and there's not much that can be done about those other than plugging them with a thick primer. But my skin does feel more refined, fresher and toned afterwards so those claims are true.

In terms of controlling oil etc, I have dry skin so I don't know whether it helps on that front. But it doesn't irritate/sting my skin or leave it dry and flaky (some toners do) so that's a huge plus.

I really like this product and definitely recommend it if you're in the market for a decent toner.