Anua BIRCH MOISTURE BOOSTING CREAM 50ML
A lightweight gel-cream moisturizer utilizing 70% Japanese White Birch Sap (Betula Platyphylla Japonica) instead of purified water to deliver amino acids and minerals directly to the stratum corneum. It repairs barrier lipids via Panthenol and Squalane while remaining entirely weightless in Port Louis humidity. Plumps dehydrated skin via a 10-tier Hyaluronic Acid complex. Not suitable for individuals with severe birch pollen allergies.
At-a-Glance (Is this for you?)
100% Genuine | Pregnancy-Safe | Vegan-Friendly* | Cruelty-Free* | Fragrance-Free
| Brand | Type | Volume | Key Active |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anua | Gel-Cream | 50ml | 70% Birch Sap |
| Skin Types | Concern | AM/PM | Complexity |
| Dehydrated, Oily, Combo | Dehydration, Barrier | Both | Straightforward |
If your skin feels oily on the surface but tight and irritated underneath, you are dehydrated-oily, not simply oily. Your skin is overproducing sebum to compensate for trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL) caused by a compromised barrier. This product addresses the underlying dehydration, which reduces compensatory surface oiliness over time.
Pros: Absorbs instantly without tacky residue in high humidity. Contains ABC Cooling Complex to lower skin temperature. Delivers sustained moisture without heavy silicones.
Caveats: May not provide enough occlusion for extremely dry skin types during winter. Carries a cross-reactivity risk for those with severe birch pollen allergies.
*Self-assessed by Adilsons based on available INCI data. No animal-derived ingredients detected. This is NOT a formal vegan certification.
*Brand-stated policy. Not independently certified by Leaping Bunny or equivalent third-party audit.
The Over-Cleansing Cycle (Why your skin feels worse)
That grimy feeling in Mauritius heat is not dirt β it is sebum and sweat doing their protective jobs. Washing more than twice daily strips your acid mantle (target pH 4.5-5.5), which triggers compensatory sebum overproduction, creating the very oiliness you are trying to eliminate.
This Birch Moisture Boosting Cream breaks the cycle by providing high-level hydration without the heavy lipid load that makes oily skin feel suffocated. By signaling to your skin that its moisture levels are adequate, it down-regulates the panic-induced sebum production.
Low-Energy and Burnout Viability (For tough days)
Compatibility: Bedside-table compatible. Requires no rinsing. Highly spreadable texture requires minimal friction to apply.
This qualifies as an excellent single-step PM routine when executive function is low. Simply cleanse and apply this cream; its humectant and light emollient profile covers both hydration and sealing requirements.
It leaves no sticky sensory aversion, drying down to a natural semi-matte finish within 60 seconds.
Quick Start (60-Second Essentials)
Step 1: Use AM and PM as the final skincare step before SPF.
Step 2: Dispense 1 to 1.5 pea-sized amounts.
Step 3: Press gently into slightly damp skin to maximize hyaluronic acid binding.
Introduce this as the ONLY new product in your routine. Wait a full 14 days before adding anything else. This isolation window ensures you can identify whether any reaction is caused by this specific product.
AM Routine Guide (Morning sequence)
1. Water Rinse or Gentle Cleanser
2. Hydrating Toner (Optional)
3. Antioxidant Serum (Optional)
4. Anua Birch Moisture Boosting Cream
5. Sunscreen (SPF50+)
In Mauritius morning humidity, humectants (HA, glycerin) work exceptionally well because they draw water from the humid air rather than from deeper skin layers. Always wait 60 seconds for this cream to absorb before applying your sunscreen.
PM Routine Guide (Evening sequence)
1. Oil Cleanser / Micellar Water
2. Water-based Cleanser
3. Active Treatment (e.g., Exfoliant or Retinoid)
4. Hydrating Serum (Optional)
5. Anua Birch Moisture Boosting Cream
If you are skin cycling, this cream acts as an excellent buffer. On retinoid nights, apply your retinoid to fully dry skin, wait 2-5 minutes, and then seal with this Birch Cream to mitigate trans-epidermal water loss.
How to Use (Amounts, technique, and tips)
| Area | Amount |
|---|---|
| Face | 1 pea size |
| Face & Neck | 1.5 to 2 pea sizes |
Pat/Press (do not rub) the product into the skin. Friction degrades formulas, increases micro-circulation unnecessarily, and raises irritation risk.
Apply to slightly damp skin. The 10-layer hyaluronic acid complex requires water to bind to; applying on damp skin provides this water source directly.
Wait 60 seconds before moving on to your sunscreen layer to prevent pilling.
The Full Routine Encyclopedia (All product types, all steps)
This is an encyclopedia map of all product types. You do not use all of these daily. You select modules based on your skin state.
Viscosity ladder: thinnest β thickest; water-phase before oil-phase; treatments before seals.
Wait-time defaults: watery layers 10-20s; serum layers 30-60s; before sunscreen 10-15 min if going outdoors or applying makeup.
Amount defaults (unless brand-specific instructions override):
Watery toner/essence: 5-8 drops per layer (or "coin-size puddle in palm")
Serum/ampoule: 2-3 drops or 1 pump (face), add +1 drop for neck if used
Eye product: Β½ rice-grain per eye (very small)
Gel moisturizer: 1 pea-1.5 peas; Cream: 1-2 peas
Occlusive seal: rice-grain to pea-size max (thin film)
Sunscreen: 2-finger rule for face; +1 finger for neck
Skin state rules:
Hydrators (toners/essences/HA): best on slightly damp skin.
Retinoids: best on fully dry skin; if sensitive, wait 10 minutes after cleansing.
Exfoliating acids: apply to dry or lightly damp depending on irritation; keep to one lane.
Hard cap rule: If routine pills, stings, or feels heavy β reduce layers, not increase.
AM (maximum map):
1. Rinse / Gentle Cleanse (optional) - 1-2 pumps. Use when: oily waking skin, heavy night occlusion, or sweat buildup.
2. pH-Prep / Balancing Toner (optional) - 5-8 drops. Wait: 10-20s.
3. Hydrating Toner Layers (1-3 layers, optional) - 5-8 drops per layer. Rule: in high humidity, often 1 layer is enough.
4. Essence (optional) - 5-8 drops. Wait: 10-20s.
5. Mist / Thermal Water (optional micro-step) - 1-2 light sprays.
6. Booster / Soothing Serum (optional) - 2-3 drops.
7. Antioxidant Lane (optional, choose ONE) - L-Ascorbic Acid (dry skin) OR Gentler antioxidant (damp/dry skin).
8. Pigment Support Lane (optional) - 2-3 drops. Dependency: pigmentation routines fail without daily SPF.
9. Hydration Serum Lane (optional) - 2-3 drops.
10. Oil-Control / Sebum-Regulating Lane (optional) - 2-3 drops.
11. Peptides / Growth-Factor / Repair Lane (optional) - 2-3 drops.
12. Eye Serum/Cream (optional) - Β½ rice-grain per eye.
13. Moisturizer (gel-cream or cream) - gel 1-1.5 peas / cream 1-2 peas.
14. Optional Sealing Layer (only if dry/AC) - rice-grain to pea-size max.
15. Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++ (non-negotiable) - 2-finger rule face.
16. Lip SPF (optional but ideal) - 1 swipe.
In AM, prioritize comfort + SPF adherence over stacking. In high humidity, fewer layers often perform better.
PM (maximum map):
1. Micellar (optional pre-cleanse) - gentle swipe.
2. Oil Cleanser / Balm (if SPF/makeup) - 1-2 pumps. Massage on dry skin 30-60s β add water to emulsify β rinse.
3. Water Cleanser (second cleanse) - 1-2 pumps. Gentle 30-60s, rinse.
4. pH-Prep Toner (optional) - 5-8 drops.
5. Hydrating Toner Layers (1-3 layers, optional) - 5-8 drops per layer.
6. Essence (optional) - 5-8 drops.
7. Soothing / Barrier Serum (optional) - 2-3 drops.
8. [Anchor Product] - use product-type default. If retinoid: fully dry skin. If acid: wait 1-3 minutes. Otherwise: wait 30-60 seconds.
9. Targeted Serum (optional) - 2-3 drops.
10. Moisturizer - gel 1-1.5 peas / cream 1-2 peas. Wait: 1 minute.
11. Sleeping Mask (optional) - thin layer.
12. Occlusive Seal (optional) - rice-grain to pea-size max. Avoid if clog-prone.
13. Spot Treatment / Pimple Patch (as needed) - spot gel: rice-grain amount.
14. Lip Sleeping Mask (optional) - thin swipe.
Do not layer retinoids with AHA/BHA in the same night; keep 'one lane' per night.
LANE STRICTNESS:
One-lane rule: Retinoid OR Exfoliation OR Strong Vitamin C (LAA) OR Acne-control active per routine; barrier/hydration can always accompany.
If unsure: default to the safest lane = barrier/hydration, and reduce layers.
Viscosity and Layering Science (Where it fits)
Position: Tier 3 (Light Emulsion/Gel-Cream). Apply after all watery toners and liquid serums, but before any heavy occlusives or facial oils.
This is a water-phase dominant emulsion with a small lipid fraction (Squalane). It layers perfectly over hydrophilic (water-loving) actives like hyaluronic acid or niacinamide.
Because it is pseudoplastic (shear-thinning), the product holds its gel shape in the jar but liquefies instantly upon contact with the warmth and friction of your skin.
What to Expect (Results timeline)
| Phase | Timeframe | What You Will Notice |
|---|---|---|
| Immediate | 0-24h | Instant cooling sensation. Reduced surface tightness. Plumper appearance from water retention. These are temporary, not structural change. |
| Adjustment | Week 1-2 | Skin adapts to the hydration level. You may notice less oil production by midday as the barrier dehydration cycle breaks. |
| Turnover | Week 4-6 | Sustained barrier improvement. Skin feels naturally more resilient and less reactive to temperature changes. Aligns with one complete epidermal turnover cycle. |
Who Should Use This (Clinical triage)
Before starting this product, your routine MUST already include a gentle cleanser and a dedicated sunscreen. Without these foundations, this product cannot adequately protect your skin barrier.
| PROCEED IF | PAUSE IF | STOP / CONSULT IF |
|---|---|---|
| Dehydrated-oily skin, intact barrier, consistent SPF user. | Currently experiencing severe flaking (requires heavier occlusion). | Known severe birch pollen allergy, active eczema lesions. |
If your skin stings on moisturizer, feels tight within 30 minutes of cleansing, or shows visible flaking β your barrier is below threshold. While this cream helps, you may initially need to layer a richer barrier repair alternative over it to stop TEWL.
Skin Type Compatibility
| Skin Type | Compatibility | Specific Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Oily | Excellent | Gel-cream texture provides water without heavy grease. Regulates compensatory sebum. |
| Combination | Excellent | Balances U-zone dryness while respecting T-zone oiliness. |
| Dry | Moderate | In Mauritius summer, it may be enough. In winter or AC, you must layer a heavier occlusive over it. |
| Sensitive | Good | Fragrance-free and cooling. Monitor if you have tree pollen allergies. |
Targeted Concerns (What it treats)
Dehydration: 10-layer Hyaluronic Acid complex binds environmental and dermal water to the stratum corneum, rapidly expanding cell volume for a plump appearance.
Barrier Compromise: Panthenol (Vitamin B5) converts to pantothenic acid in the skin, synthesizing coenzyme A to produce critical epidermal lipids.
What it CANNOT do: Cannot physically shrink pores. It can make pores appear slightly smaller by plumping the skin surrounding them, but pore size is genetically determined.
Best Paired With (Synergistic pairings)
1. Anua Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner: Quenches redness and provides the perfect damp base for the Birch Cream's hyaluronic acid to bind with. Use AM/PM.
2. COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence: Boosts structural repair and adds intense hydration layered underneath the Birch cream. Use AM/PM.
3. Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Aqua Fresh Rice + B5 50ML: A perfectly matched, lightweight hydrating SPF that layers over this gel-cream without pilling. Use AM.
Stress, Cortisol and Your Skin
Chronic stress elevates cortisol, which breaks down collagen, increases trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL), triggers inflammatory acne, and compromises barrier function.
This creamβs ABC Cooling Complex (Allantoin, Betaine, Cucumber Extract) specifically targets the neurogenic inflammation and localized heat that cortisol spikes produce. By rapidly lowering skin surface temperature, it interrupts the inflammatory signaling cascade.
Wudu and Prayer Compatibility
Permeability: Water-Permeable (wudu-compatible).
This is a water-based emulsion without heavy, cross-linked silicones or waterproofing film-formers. Water can freely reach the skin surface without requiring harsh removal.
Adilsons provides this assessment based on the product's physical properties. Rulings on wudu validity vary between scholars. Consult your own trusted Islamic authority.
Myth Replacement (Common misconceptions)
MYTH: "Oily skin doesn't need moisturizer in Mauritius heat." REALITY: Depriving oily skin of hydration forces it to produce more sebum to prevent water loss. Hydrating with a water-gel breaks this cycle.
MYTH: "Drinking water hydrates your outer skin." REALITY: The stratum corneum is avascular (no blood supply). It relies primarily on topical humectants to pull water from the atmosphere.
Climate Fit for Mauritius
| Season | Conditions | How to Adjust |
|---|---|---|
| Summer (Dec-Mar) | High heat, 80%+ humidity | Ideal texture. The humectants draw abundant moisture from the air. |
| Winter (Jun-Sep) | Cooler, drier trade winds | May require a drop of facial oil mixed in for dry skin types. |
If you live in an air-conditioned office for 8+ hours daily, apply an occlusive cream or SPF over this β otherwise the Hyaluronic Acid draws moisture FROM your deeper skin layers in the low-humidity AC environment.
Complete Ingredient Transparency
| Ingredient | Evidence Grade | Mechanism | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Betula Platyphylla Japonica Juice (70%) | Moderate | Mimics skin's NMF; rich in amino acids/minerals. | Plant |
| Panthenol | Strong | Converts to B5; synthesizes barrier lipids. | Synthetic |
| Squalane | Strong | Bio-compatible emollient; prevents TEWL. | Plant |
Full INCI: Betula Platyphylla Japonica Juice (70%), Dipropylene Glycol, Water, Butylene Glycol, Squalane, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, 1,2-Hexanediol, C12-14 Alketh-12, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Hydroxyacetophenone, Panthenol, [--- Estimated 1% Line ---] Propanediol, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Allantoin, Betaine, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Potassium Hyaluronate, Ceramide NP, Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Malachite Extract, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium EDTA.
The Malachite Extract acts as a natural colorant (providing a pale blue/green hue) and a mild antioxidant.*
*Clinical evidence is based on in-vitro (lab cell) studies only. In-vivo (human skin) results may differ. This does not mean the ingredient is ineffective β it means the evidence tier is lower.
Allergens and Fragrance Disclosure
Fragrance Status: Fragrance-Free. No synthetic parfum or essential oils.
Scent Description: Faint, neutral aqueous scent from the natural birch sap base. Dissipates instantly upon application.
EU 26 Allergen Screen: None detected in declared INCI. Alcohol-Free formulation (no drying alcohols like denatured alcohol or ethanol).
Cross-Reactivity and Drug Interactions
Birch Pollen Allergy: Contains 70% Birch Sap. Individuals with severe birch pollen allergies (often linked to Oral Allergy Syndrome with apples/celery) may experience contact dermatitis or redness. Patch test carefully.
Does not contain known chemical interactants with prescription topical medications. The lack of strong acids makes it a safe companion for isotretinoin or tretinoin regimens.
Conscious and Permissible Formulation
Vegan Status: Vegan-Friendly.*
Cruelty-Free Status: Cruelty-Free.*
Microplastic-Free: Contains Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, a synthetic polymer used for texture.
*Self-assessed by Adilsons based on available INCI data. No animal-derived ingredients detected. This is NOT a formal vegan certification by The Vegan Society or equivalent body.
*Brand states cruelty-free, but sells products in Mainland China where post-market animal testing may be required by law. Cross-border e-commerce sales may be exempt.
Evidence, Regulation and Claims
MFDS Classification: General Cosmetic. Focuses on hydration and barrier maintenance without regulated functional skin-bleaching or wrinkle-reduction agents.
Dermatologist-tested for primary skin irritation.*
*Brand claims 'Dermatologist Tested' but no publicly available study data, sample size, or testing protocol has been disclosed.
Product Identity and Provenance
| English Name | Korean Name | Brand | Origin |
|---|---|---|---|
| Birch Moisture Boosting Cream | μμλ무 μλΆ λΆμ€ν ν¬λ¦Ό | Anua | South Korea |
Net Volume: 50ml. Period After Opening (PAO): 12 months. Shelf Life Unopened: 36 months.
Sensory and Chemical Profile
| Texture | Viscosity | pH | Absorption |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gel-Cream | Tier 3 (Light Emulsion) | ~5.5 (Acid Mantle Aligned) | Under 30s |
Finish: Natural semi-matte, zero tackiness.
Fungal Acne Safety: FA-Conditional. Contains Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil and Polysorbates/Esters deep in the formulation which can potentially feed Malassezia yeast in highly reactive individuals.
Pilling Risk and Texture Mechanics
Pilling Assessment: Low.
Because it is highly aqueous and lacks heavy silicone cross-polymers, it plays exceptionally well under sunscreens and makeup. Ensure previous serum layers have fully absorbed for 60 seconds before applying.
If pilling occurs, it is likely because you are applying it over a bone-dry face. Apply to slightly damp skin to allow the hyaluronic acid to bind and absorb instantly.
Stability, Spoilage and Oxidation
Color Baseline: Pale translucent blue/green (naturally derived from Malachite Extract). Warning: If the product turns cloudy brown, discard.
In Mauritius heat, do not store this cream in direct sunlight or in a hot car, as extended heat exposure can break the emulsion, causing the water and squalane phases to separate.
This product was imported via standard logistics.
Safety and Patch Test Protocol
Patch Test: Apply to inner forearm for 24h, then behind the ear for 24h before facial use. This is especially critical if you have any history of tree pollen allergies.
If adverse reaction: STOP ALL ACTIVES. For 72 hours, use ONLY gentle cleanser + plain moisturizer + mineral SPF. NO acids, retinoids, Vitamin C, exfoliants, or essential oils. After 72h, reintroduce ONE product per 14 days.
Emergency Stop Signals: Hives, swelling, blistering, persistent burning, breathing difficulty (seek emergency care).
Troubleshooting Guide
| If You Experience | Likely Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Pilling | Incompatible layers or excess product | Apply to damp skin. Wait 60s before SPF. |
| Stinging | Barrier compromise | Pause exfoliants; barrier needs repair. |
| Dryness/tightness later in day | Air-conditioning (low humidity) | Add a drop of facial oil or use a heavier occlusive over it. |
| Smell changed | Spoilage | Discard immediately. |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Applying to completely dry skin: This forces the 10-layer hyaluronic acid to pull water from your deeper tissues, leading to paradoxical dehydration.
2. Using too much: Gel-creams spread extensively. A single pea-sized amount is sufficient for the entire face.
3. Relying on this solely during winter: While perfect for humid Mauritius summers, cooler trade winds may require you to lock this hydration in with a stronger occlusive.
Usage Economics (How long it lasts)
Volume: 50ml. Recommended amount per use: 0.5ml (pea size). Uses per container: approximately 100 applications.
At recommended dosage (twice daily): approximately 50 days (1.5 months). At common overdosing: depletes in approximately 20 days. Correct dosage is better for your skin AND extends product life.
Reorder in approximately 1 month. We recommend reordering 2 weeks before estimated depletion for shipping time.
Complete Your Routine (Exact routine + pairings)
Achieve a balanced, deeply hydrated "chok-chok" glow without suffocating oily skin.
Anua Birch Cream provides critical water-phase hydration and barrier support at Tier 3 of the viscosity ladder.
AM Routine:
1. Splash with water.
2. Anua Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner (5-8 drops, pat in).
3. Anua Birch Moisture Boosting Cream (1 pea size, apply to damp skin).
4. Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Aqua Fresh Rice + B5 50ML (2-finger rule, wait 10 min).
PM Routine:
1. SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Light Cleansing Oil (massage 60s, emulsify, rinse).
2. COSRX AC Collection Calming Foam Cleanser (lather, rinse).
3. COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence (1 pump, damp skin).
4. Anua Birch Moisture Boosting Cream (1.5 pea sizes).
If you are barrier-compromised right now, then skip the foaming cleanser in the AM and use only water, allowing your natural overnight lipids to protect your skin.
If you are in AC all day, then apply a tiny amount of squalane oil over the Birch Cream to prevent the hyaluronic acid from evaporating into the dry air.
After purchasing, you will receive our skincare education email series covering this product in depth.
The recommendations above are based on formulation synergy with Anua Birch Moisture Boosting Cream, not on margin or stock levels. If a pairing does not exist in our catalog, we say so. If you already own a product that fills the same role, use what you have first.
Is This the Best Choice? (Mindful alternatives)
If your skin is extremely sensitive, severely barrier-damaged, or you require heavy ceramide occlusion rather than light hydration, consider the Dr.Althea 345 RELIEF CREAM 50ML.
The Dr. Althea cream provides a richer, more traditional cream texture focused on intensive redness relief and post-breakout healing, trading off the weightless, water-burst sensation of the Anua Birch Cream.
Why Choose This Over the Alternative?
Choose Anua Birch Cream over Dr. Althea 345 Relief Cream if you need superior humidity performance: a weightless gel-cream that won't trap sweat or sebum in tropical heat.
| Upgrade Axis | What's better in THIS | What you trade off vs Alternative | Who benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sensory & Mauritius Fit | Faster absorption, zero tack | Less intensive heavy occlusion | Dehydrated-oily skin in high humidity |
| Hydration Density | 10-layer HA + 70% Birch Sap | Fewer barrier-repair botanical extracts | Skin needing deep water retention |
Upgrade to THIS if you experience reactive seborrhea (dehydrated-oily paradox). The lightweight water delivery stops compensatory oil production without feeling greasy.
Upgrade to THIS if you are highly prone to sweating in the summer. The ABC Cooling Complex lowers skin temperature, reducing thermal shock flushing.
Upgrade to THIS if heavy silicones trigger breakouts for you. The formulation relies on squalane and plant sap rather than occlusive dimethicone.
Do NOT upgrade to THIS if your barrier stings/tightens after cleansing (barrier below threshold). You need the thicker healing profile of the Dr. Althea cream first.
Do NOT upgrade to THIS if you have known tree pollen or birch sap cross-reactivity.
If you match 2 or more upgrade triggers above, THIS is worth choosing. If not, the alternative is sufficient and safer. Consistency beats complexity.
The No-Buy Redundancy Check
This product's PRIMARY function is: lightweight daily hydration and barrier maintenance. You do NOT need this if you already own an unfinished gel-cream or water-based moisturizer.
Check your current shelf. Do you have an open product with the same primary function? Skincare products lose efficacy after opening (PAO = 12 months). Buying new while old expires is waste.
Combining with a similar lightweight gel moisturizer: No Benefit (same mechanism). Finish your current product before purchasing.
Sourcing and Authenticity
This product is sourced through authorized Korean distributors β primarily Craver Co., Ltd (South Korea), alongside other verified distribution partners. Craver is a major Korean beauty distributor, handling authorized distribution for multiple K-beauty brands. All products are shipped directly to Mauritius via verified channels.
For comprehensive information about how we verify authenticity, our layered verification system, and how to check your product at home, visit our dedicated Authenticity and Trust page.
Check the bottom of the jar for the manufactured date (μ μ‘°) or expiration date (κΉμ§) printed cleanly and legibly, typical of authentic Anua packaging.
About Anua
Anua is a South Korean skincare brand dedicated to simplicity and soothing ingredients. Their formulation philosophy centers on maximizing the concentration of a single, highly effective plant extract (like Heartleaf, Birch, or Peach) while eliminating unnecessary chemical fillers.
By focusing on what the skin fundamentally needs to remain calm, Anua creates minimalist products designed to bring irritated, stressed skin back to a state of comfortable homeostasis.
Genuine Community Experiences
Users with oily, dehydrated skin on Reddit's r/AsianBeauty consistently praise its "water-burst" texture, noting it absorbs immediately without leaving a shiny film during summer months.
Combination skin users on YesStyle report it layers beautifully under makeup and sunscreens, though a few noted they needed something richer for their dry cheeks during colder weather.
Critical reviews typically come from users with very dry skin who find the gel-cream texture insufficiently occlusive, requiring them to reapply or layer an oil over it.
Common Praise: Weightless hydration, instant cooling effect, no pilling under makeup. Common Complaints: Not occlusive enough for very dry skin, jar packaging is less hygienic than a pump.
Packaging and Practical Details
| Primary Packaging | Closure Type | Hygiene Rating | Travel-Friendly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plastic Jar | Screw Cap | Moderate (Requires spatula/clean hands) | Yes (50ml) |
Please rinse the jar clean before recycling according to Mauritius local guidelines. The product is not currently available in a refillable format.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this cream suitable for acne-prone skin?
Yes. It is non-comedogenic and lightweight, providing necessary hydration without heavy oils that can clog pores.
Will this treat my dark spots?
No. This is a hydration and barrier support cream. Fading dark spots requires dedicated active ingredients like Vitamin C, Niacinamide, or Tranexamic Acid.
Can I use this with my retinol serum?
Yes. It serves as an excellent, soothing buffer step to apply either before or after your retinol to help minimize irritation.
Does it have a strong scent?
No. It is completely fragrance-free and any faint natural scent dissipates instantly upon application.
Glossary
- Barrier Lipids
- The natural fats (ceramides, cholesterol, fatty acids) in your skin that glue cells together and keep moisture trapped inside.
- Stratum Corneum
- The outermost layer of your skin, composed of dead skin cells and lipids, acting as your primary shield against the environment.
- TEWL (Trans-epidermal Water Loss)
- The process where water evaporates out from your skin into the air. A damaged barrier leads to high TEWL.
- Humectant
- An ingredient (like Hyaluronic Acid or Glycerin) that acts like a sponge, pulling water into the skin from the environment or deeper layers.
- Occlusive
- A heavy ingredient that forms a physical seal over the skin to lock moisture in and prevent evaporation.
- Dehydrated-Oily
- A skin state where the skin lacks water, panics, and overproduces oil (sebum) to compensate, leaving you feeling greasy but tight.
- Acid Mantle
- The naturally slightly acidic film on the surface of your skin that keeps bad bacteria out and good bacteria happy.
- Viscosity
- How thick or thin a liquid is. Water has low viscosity; heavy creams have high viscosity.
The Adilsons Promise
Every product sold by Adilsons Beauty is 100% genuine, sourced through authorized Korean distribution channels. Full details on our verification system: Authenticity and Trust.
Our team is available to help you build a routine, troubleshoot reactions, and answer ingredient questions. WhatsApp: +230 5 778 2336.
For in-depth skincare education, visit our blog at adilsons.mu/blogs/k-beauty or subscribe to our email to get our guided education series delivered to your inbox.
Delivery and Returns β Mauritius
Coverage: Island-wide delivery (Mauritius).
Processing and Timing: Orders process in 1-2 business days; usually ready by Day 3 for pickup by our delivery partners/regional team. Partner collection can take up to 1 week. After pickup, delivery typically takes 1-5 business days (weekdays only).
Express: May be available by region; request on WhatsApp: +230 5 778 2336.
Liquids/Sensitive Items: Serums, toners, liquid makeup (and kits containing liquids) are pickup or door-to-door only; checkout enforces this.
Scheduling: Deliveries run by region on set schedules; we will contact you the evening before.
Pickup: Citadelle Mall pickup available.
Returns: No change-of-mind exchanges.
Refunds (Summary): For defective/damaged on receipt (report within 48h), wrong item, or manufacturing defect within 6 months. Refunds via bank transfer (7-10 business days); card refunds may incur a 5% processor fee (fee not charged for defects/order errors). Opened skincare/personal-care items are non-returnable (except if damaged on delivery).
Source of Truth: This is a quick snapshot. If anything differs, the policy pages are final.
Store Policies: For the most up-to-date information, please review our Shipping Policy and Refund Policy.
The Final Verdict
Best For: Dehydrated, oily, and combination skin types seeking intense hydration without heaviness in humid climates.
Key Benefits: Delivers exceptional water-weight moisture via 70% Birch Sap. Cools the skin rapidly to reduce thermal-induced redness. Breaks the dehydration-oiliness cycle with barrier-supporting squalane and panthenol.
Keep in Mind: It may lack the heavy occlusive power needed for very dry skin types during winter. Not recommended for those with severe birch pollen allergies due to cross-reactivity risks.
Environmental Defense and Lifestyle Factors
In air-conditioned environments, hyaluronic acid can draw moisture FROM your deeper skin layers instead of from the air. ALWAYS seal this product with an occlusive SPF or oil when in AC for extended periods to prevent trans-epidermal water loss.
Its non-tacky finish prevents particulate adhesion, making it ideal during the July-November sugar cane burning season when PM2.5 levels rise. It helps keep the skin surface clear of irritating airborne debris.