Product Review: belif The True Cream Aqua Bomb

Having mature skin isn't for wimps.

There are lines, changes in texture, loss of firmness, sensitivity, dry patches, and sometimes you're still prone to breakouts. I've said many times that it just doesn't seem fair to have to use both anti-aging and anti-acne products! So if you're like me, you're always on the lookout for products that offer great hydration without irritation and/or breakouts. (Read all about my skin.)


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One of the items I received in my October 2015 Sephora Play! box was The True Cream Aqua Bomb by belif. If you're not familiar with the brand, belif is a Korean company that models their formulas on Scottish herbalist, Duncan Napier's philosophy, "the best raw materials create the most honest efficacy". I'm a fan of Korean skincare/beauty products, and I wish more US companies would take notice of what they're doing and do some of the same.

This particular product is marketed as a gel-cream, and I would agree with that description. It's a pretty pale aqua color, and you can immediately see that it has gel-like properties. It's very light-weight, but the surprise is in how much moisture comes from just a small amount. It's difficult to describe, but when you apply it, there is a cool sensation, and then it immediately feels more "wet" - but then it absorbs, leaving skin feeling smooth and soft.


It has an herbal-like scent that I find pleasant, but if you don't like that sort of thing, don't worry - it dissipates quickly. It does not contain any mineral oil or synthetic fragrance, dyes, or preservatives, which I very much appreciate.

The main active ingredients are:

• Lady's mantle - antioxidant
• Malachite - antioxidant
• Plantin - creates moisture seal on skin
• Oat husk - humectant (attracts moisture)

Suggested usage from the website:

• Apply as needed to face and neck.
• Can be used morning and night.
• For a midday moisture boost, tap gently onto skin.
• Can be used on top of makeup.
• When used as a five-minute emergency moisture mask: apply generously to skin and tissue off.

I applied about a pea-sized to a dime-sized amount to cover my entire face (I leaned towards the smaller amount in daytime, then more at night.) I didn't have any issues applying my sunscreen over it, and then my makeup over that. I didn't experience any problems with irritation or breakouts either, which was awesome. I actually really liked this product a lot for providing moisture, and I especially liked that it contains antioxidants. I can't say whether or not it did anything else for my skin because I only had a small jar, and didn't have enough to use it for a prolonged period of time. But for hydration, it's great!

This product is available in two sizes, 0.84 oz. for $22 or 1.68 oz. for $38.

Have you tried any of the belif products?