Clear Skin 8% AHA Essence Review - ISNTREE

AD – Sponsored | ISNTREE gifted me their beauty products in exchange for an authentic review.

Today I am going to review “ISNTREE Clear Skin 8% AHA Essence, 100ml / 3.38 fl. oz.” The new name is “ISNTREE Chestnut AHA 8% Clear Essence”. Its purpose is to make rough skin texture smooth, and refine pores.

This post contains brand, and product information as given on the Isntree website. Review and additional information is my own expertise and experience; irrespective of what the internet says. I would be using both names of the product interchangeably. Now let’s learn more about the Korean cosmetics brand, “Isntree”. This post is in two sections: The brand, and the review.

SECTION I: THE BRAND “ISNTREE”

Isntree is “Clean” Korean cosmetics brand telling of a pure nature island that is free of pollutants, hence the name Isntree. It is a safe brand as it only uses healthy green grade ingredients, and has no unnecessary add-ons like fragrance or color. It is vegan as it sources pure, fresh, and natural plant based materials. Isntree formulates cosmetics for all skin types with the main purpose to restore and strengthen skin’s natural self-growth ability.

Isntree is a cosmetics manufacturing business. It lists all ingredients honestly. It makes reliable and highly innovative formulations from customers’ point of view. This is the reason it has been widely accepted by customers worldwide. Isntree’s high quality sells itself in the market without any excessive marketing. By doing so, it intends to lead the cosmetics market by example.

Isntree new Packaging – Sustainable and Upcycling

Isntree is going to change all packaging in 2022 for a more sustainable approach. New packaging would only be about PCR plastic bottles, recycled paper boxes, wash-off labels, and non-colored bottles.

ISNTREE Clear Skin 8% AHA Essence

Now, let jump in to know about their product “Clear Skin 8% AHA Essence”. But first, let’s first talk about what an essence is in Korean skincare.

What is Essence in Skincare

An essence is a watery skincare product i.e. the diluted version of a concentrated serum or ampoule. Essence is the fourth step in Korean skincare routine that adds back hydration to the skin after cleansing, toning, and exfoliating. It contains hydrating and healthy ingredients to boost skin health, and may contain active ingredients.

What is Isntree AHA Clear Essence

ISNTREE Clear Skin 8% AHA Essence, 100ml / 3.38 fl. oz., Sales Price $14.40, is a high concentration Alpha Hydroxy Acid product to make your roughened skin texture smooth, improve dull skin to give it a dewy glow, and cleanse pores to give them a more refined appearance.

Isntree combines the second and fourth step of Korean skincare routine in Clear Skin 8% AHA Essence, i.e. exfoliation and essence in one. This contains high concentration of water soluble active ingredients AHA i.e. 4% glycolic acid, and 4% lactic acid in a water base. The product first exfoliates the skin, and then hydrates it. It has a low pH of up to 4 and water formulation to make it a high performing product. It is a mild keratin liquid exfoliator that naturally drops old keratin on your skin to make the texture smooth. It also helps reducing hyperpigmentation.

Isntree AHA Essence Texture and Finish

Isntree Clear Skin 8 AHA Essence, 100ml is transparent in color. It has a pleasant pungent smell derived from natural ingredients. It has a watery gel type formulation. It has a tacky texture that is legit of pure AHA. It is hypo allergenic, but would still tingle a few users. This is a good stimulant and indicates that the product is performing.

Skin Type for Isntree AHA Essence

Isntree AHA 8% Clear Essence is for all skin types, including sensitive skin. Use Isntree AHA Clear Essence if you have dull, acne prone, congested, textured, damaged (by UV rays), aged, troubled, and rough skin concerns.

What does Isntree AHA Clear Essence do

Functions of AHA 8% Clear Essence are;

• keratin/dead skin cells removal
• evening out skin tone
• cleansing and tightening pores
• improving skin texture.

This product gently exfoliates dead skin cells of the dermal layer, and dissolves keratin naturally to leave a glass-like skin underneath. It cleanses clogged pores. The new addition of chestnut shell extract would further tighten up pores.

What does AHA do in Isntree AHA 8% Clear Essence

AHAs are water soluble, and active chemical exfoliating ingredients. They treat dull and textured skin to make it look smooth and give it a glow. Clear Skin 8 AHA Essence includes two of AHAs i.e. glycolic acid, and lactic acid.

• Glycolic Acid:

Glycolic acid is a chemical exfoliator. With its smallest molecular size, it penetrates dermal layer faster to exfoliate dead skin cells, and drops keratin. Through exfoliation, it helps in reducing hyperpigmentation. It also cleanses congested pores to prevent acne, whitehead, and blackheads. Glycolic acid makes skin texture sleek.

• Lactic Acid:

Lactic acid is a gentle and natural moisturizing ingredient with a bigger molecular size. It complements glycolic acid. While glycolic acid exfoliates, lactic acid adds back hydration in the dermis.

 

Isntree AHA Essence New Version

Isntree announced release of newer version of the AHA essence on 2nd April, 2022 on Instagram. It is called "Chestnut AHA 8% Clear Essence”. They had to replace a few ingredients due to supply chain issues, but the new formulation does not alter product’s effectiveness. There is addition of discarded chestnut shell extract to firm and tighten up pores. They added an anti-inflammatory ingredient, a derivative of centella asiatica, Madecassoside to calm the skin.

My opinion is that a couple of ingredients addition or replacement among all other ingredients is not going to bring a gigantic change in performance, but it would definitely be a bonus.

When I received the products, Isntree was already in the course of launching new packaging. They are changing only the designs. Formulation would remain the same, except for AHA essence. When I would buy the new bottle, I would update this review only if I notice a change in performance.

Isntree AHA Essence – Key Ingredients

• Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid: Exfoliates, and moisturizes.
• Asiaticoside, Madecassoside: Soothes, and calms irritated skin.
• Sodium Hyaluronate: Hydration.
• Panthenol, Allantoin: Strengthens the skin barrier.
• Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate: Anti-inflammation, and sebum regulation.
• Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Portulaca Oleracea Extract: Skin soothing, and moisturizing.

Isntree AHA Essence – Full Ingredients

Water, Lactic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Potassium Hydroxide, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder, Sodium Hyaluronate, Glyceryl Caprylate, Asiaticoside, Dextrin, Panthenol, Madecassoside, Allantoin, 1-2 Hexanediol, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Glycereth-25 PCA Isostearate, Hydroxyethylcellulose.

Where to buy Isntree AHA Clear Essence

Isntree does not sell from their website anymore. You can check product information from Isntree’s website, which I have also linked above. But if you want to buy their products, check out Isntree’s international sellers where you can purchase products according to your nationality.

Can I use Isntree AHA Clear Essence every day

Isntree says that you can use it every day because they have designed the product this way. But, precaution is always advised whenever you use strong or active ingredients. The Chestnut AHA 8% Clear Essence has a very high concentration of active ingredients, so don't go overboard with using it! Over-exfoliation is bad for your skin’s immune system in the long run. I would suggest you not to use it more than once or twice a week, depending upon your skin’s threshold level.

What should you not mix with Isntree AHA Clear Essence

Isntree advises against using active and strong ingredients along with the AHA Clear Essence to avoid skin sensitivity. Do not use retinol and vitamin C at the same time with AHA. Either switch products between AM and PM, or alternate days to be safer to not use them excessively.

Once you are done with active treatments, switch to gentle ingredients for a balance. Rest assured that Isntree Clear Skin 8 AHA Essence is designed for both oily and sensitive skins.

SECTION II: THE REVIEW

ISNTREE Clear Skin 8% AHA Essence

Video Application

I made a TikTok to show you the Isntree8 AHA essence texture. If you want to have a look, click on the linked.

Packaging

Isntree 8 AHA essence comes in a pumping type bottle. This is the best way to secure hygiene of a cosmetics product as it does not have a direct contact with air. I love the packaging and also the upgraded one. No arguments there.

My skin concerns and why I picked the certain Isntree products

I have dry to very dry, and acne prone skin. It sometimes gets flaky during transitioning seasons. Recently an area of the skin also got itchy. From a bird’s eye view, my skin looks good. But on a closer look, there are visible concerns that need attention. I have texture on the forehead, nose, and chin. This includes whiteheads and blackheads. And I have pitted acne scars; the dents resembling chicken pox. I do not have hyperpigmentation, but the scars do not hide even after using primer and concealer.

I tried dermatological treatments which improved my skin but did not clear pitted acne scars. I intend to continue with good skincare until I see them almost leveled with the rest of my skin. My main focus is to level appearance of the pitted acne scars. Second priority is to avoid acne from recurring. My acne is quite stubborn, and usually leaves chicken pox pits after settling. So I got products from Isntree for exfoliation, acne treatment, and skin rejuvenation.

How to Use Isntree AHA Clear Essence

Cleanse (wash) your face. Use a mild toner (optional if you have sensitive skin). Apply 1-2 pumps of Isntree AHA 8 Clear Essence on the face at PM, avoiding the eye and mouth area. Pat for absorption. Follow up with a moisturizer. Leave it overnight.

This information is according to the brand. They advise to always do a patch test to look for any kind of reactions, irritations, and redness. If that happens, stop using it. If you have any inflammation or injury on your skin, let it heal first and then use this product. A few precautions include:

• Avoid heavy creams after this product. You need to use a water based moisturizer, because AHAs are water soluble and more effective this way.
• AHA causes sensitivity to sunlight, so use it in the evening. While using this product, don’t forget to use sunscreen during the day. Think long run and keep your skin barrier strong.
• Use it within six months. It has a short expiry due to the freshness of natural ingredients.

How I Use Isntree AHA Clear Essence

I cleanse my face. Skip the toner. Use two pumps of Isntree Clear Skin 8 AHA Essence on the face, and one pump on the neck in PM. I follow up with a water based moisturizer. I wash up in the morning, and carry on with the AM skin routine. I use it only once a week, because I do not want to over-exfoliate.

You can use it in a few more ways. Do target treatment. I sometimes only apply it on the troubled areas. I also tried applying it on the underarms, and I have no regrets. I would prefer Isntree AHA Essence over detox masks to exfoliate the deodorant clogged skin, and clean pores.

Before and After Using Isntree AHA 8 Essence

Using the product has made my forehead skin feel less 3D to touch. A few needle-like bumps are already coming out of the dermis, and getting exfoliated away. It is already giving my skin a glass-like appearance. From consistent use of Isntree AHA Essence followed by their skin renewing treatment, I hope for dented scars to reduce further in appearance. I would update you with the before and after images of the results.

When would Changes show from using Isntree AHA 8 Essence

Isntree AHA 8 Essence would start to give your skin a dewy glow in the first few uses. But remember, chemical exfoliation takes time to give results. Expect no less than a month to see improvements in your skin texture. For evening out pigmentation, it could take longer. So be patient with your skin care. A good benchmark is to notice for significant results after three months of usage. My skin started looking dewy and clear within a month of using it.

How Isntree AHA 8 Clear Essence different from Its competitors

AHA treatment products come in two types. One type involves applying on the face, and then rinsing it off after a few minutes. The second type is to only apply on the face, and then follow up with a moisturizer. A few best-selling products such as The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution is to be rinsed off. Peel pads and sticks, such as Dr. Oracle A-Thera Peeling Stick, and Dr Dennis Gross Alpha Beta®Universal Daily Peel involve rubbing them gently on the skin, and following up with next steps in skincare routine.

The main distinguishing feature between Isntree AHA 8 Clear Essence vs competitors is the application. ISNTREE Chestnut AHA 8% Clear Essence comes in the second category of applying the product directly on the face, but made even easier! As it is an essence, you simply take some of the product in your hands, and apply it like a moisturizer. Do follow up with a moisturizer later. ;)

What sets ISNTREE Clear Skin 8% AHA Essence Apart from Its competitors

Three distinguishing reasons:

1. The best AHA innovative formulation in the market! Even with a high AHA concentration, Isntree Clear Skin 8 AHA Essence is gentle enough for sensitive skin. It hydrates the skin at the same time.

2. Great priced product ever! It is a 100ml bottle with a retail tag of almost 15 US Dollars. You would not find such a great value for this price in the market!

3. Ease of application. I prefer product applications like that of a moisturizer. Isntree AHA 8 Clear Essence meets my need.

Key Decision Making Factors while Choosing to Buy Isntree AHA 8% Clear Essence

Compare high concentration of AHA ingredients with low ones, and the skin type the product caters to. If competitor product is only for oily and normal skin types, then other skin types would not benefit from them.

For me, the quickest application is to apply a product with hands like a moisturizer, essence, or serum, and get over myself. If it feels like a ritual and takes time, I avoid buying them. I would choose ISNTREE Chestnut AHA 8% Clear Essence among other AHA contenders. And for the strong ingredient, this product is gentle enough on my very dry, and acne prone skin.

Pros and Cons: Isntree Clear Skin 8% AHA Essence

This product has all the positives one can look for. For me, it has no cons. Despite the high concentration of AHA, this formulation is gentle enough on my very dry skin.

RATING: Isntree Clear Skin 8% AHA Essence

Isntree AHA Clear Skin 8% AHA Essence Rating - Quantitative Performance (Overall), 5 out of 5 stars.

Categories:

Quantity                    100 ml

Price                          5

Texture                      5

Moisturizing               5

Ingredients                5

Packaging                 5

Value for money        5

 

Verdict

ISNTREE Clear Skin 8% AHA Essence, 100ml / 3.38 fl. oz. is known to sell itself in the market! Counters clear away in no time. After experiencing it for myself, I now know why. The first time I applied ISNTREE Clear Skin 8% AHA Essence, I felt a slight tingle. But it instantly calmed my skin, and the itch was gone. I slept peacefully without scratching my face. When I woke up the next morning, it gave it a silvery glow. I had a good start!

It is making my skin look plump, and sleek. Flakiness is gone. My skin condition is improving daily. It did not break me out. But I have yet to see it reducing appearance of pitted acne scars on my face on which I would update you. But so far I am quite satisfied, and loving the results. I have always been hesitant wearing AHA on my skin and I'm glad I came across this one. I have the new bottle ISNTREE Chestnut AHA 8% Clear Essence saved in my wish list. I can easily say that I will keep buying this product.

That's all on the Isntree AHA 8 Clear Essence review. If you found it helpful, let me know in the comment section below. 

Related Posts:

Isntree Spot Saver Mugwort Ampoule Review

Definition Of A Healthy Skin Analysis Skin

Treat, Prevent, and Fade Hyperpigmentation and Acne Scars