The Tuesday Toners series is back with a long overdue review of one of the toners that I have enjoyed the most this year (so far!). As you may have understood by now, I am a toner hoarder. I am fully sold on the benefits of using toners and my skincare routine would not be complete and effective without a balancing, soothing, and hydrating facial mist. The formulation of the Panacea Elixir is, as per usual with YULI Skincare, achieved with the finest botanical ingredients and is particularly suited for normal, combination, oily, or blemish-prone skin.
The base is pure Aloe Vera, whose pH level (usually between 4.5 and 5.5) is almost identical to that of the skin (normally slightly acidic, below 5¹). Therefore, Aloe Vera helps to restore the skin’s pH balance. Cucumber is included in the formula because of its cure-all properties: it’s hydrating, soothing, and anti-inflammatory. Another anti-inflammatory ingredient, which is great for detoxifying the skin and healing, is Watercress. It is high in Vitamin C, beta-carotene, and lutein (a powerful carotenoid that has been shown to prevent UV damage). The formula also features Rose, which prevents wrinkles, fine lines, and is high in antioxidants that fight-off free radicals. It also contains a Trace Mineral Complex that stimulates collagen production, soothes inflammation, and regulates hormones that can contribute to finicky skin.
I have been using the YULI Panacea Elixir for about two months before I ran out of it, (I am now using YULI Cocoon) and I especially liked it for post-cleansing use: to hydrate, close the pores, and balance my combo skin. Occasionally I spritzed my face with it throughout the day when it felt dehydrated. It hydrates the skin without leaving it shiny/oily. I also found it very soothing on the occasional blemish and it seemed to help with calming down the redness and inflammation. The scent is light and slightly rosey, and does not linger.
I only have one word of caution: try not to get it in your eyes! Although the label on the product warned me, I accidentally spritzed my face with my eyes open and it was slightly irritating. Keep your eyes closed while spritzing, or cover them with a face towel.
I have not yet repurchased Panacea, simply because I am using Cocoon. I am having a special thing for chamomile lately, and the Cocoon Elixir (formulated to benefit sensitive skin types) contains this soothing ingredient, which is amazing on stressed, easily irritated skin. Love, love, love YULI Elixirs. They are my favorites together with the Kahina Toning Mist.
I purchased mine from Spirit Beauty Lounge, and you can find it here.
¹ Natural skin surface pH is on average below 5. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18489300
