You know that “Climate Positive” sticker on the bottle? Look closer. It’s self-certified — not third-party verified. And the preservative system? Phenoxyethanol. Not the worst, but not the “radically clean” vibe they sell.
The real kicker: they list “parfum” without breaking down what’s in it. On a product marketed as transparent. That’s not clean — that’s clever copywriting.
🌱 **Vibes Over Verification**
It’s $38 for 1 oz. The claim that got me: “Climate Positive + zero waste.” I wanted to believe. The bottle is glass with a bamboo cap — looks great on your shelf. But the inside story is messier.
Climate Positive Claim
Self-reported carbon offsets. No external audit. Take it with a grain of salt.
10% Lactic Acid
Actual exfoliation power. Not a gimmick — this percentage works.
HA Complex
Three weights of hyaluronic acid. Actually hydrates deeper than most.
Photo: Alexandra Tran / Unsplash
⚠️ **The Ingredient Reality Check**
Heroes: Lactic acid (10%) + sodium hyaluronate crosspolymer. They exfoliate and plump — legit. But then there’s the fragrance mix and phenoxyethanol. Not toxic, but not “clean” by any strict standard.
- Lactic Acid (10%): Exfoliates dead skin, smooths texture
- Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer: Hydrates without greasiness
- Phenoxyethanol: Preservative — common, not scary, but not ‘free-from’
- Parfum (Fragrance): Undisclosed blend. Irritant risk for sensitive skin
Photo: Viva Luna Studios / Unsplash
📋 **The Texture Trap**
Thin. Watery. Absorbs in 8 seconds flat — almost too fast. First use: slight tingle, no burn. I thought, okay, this is nice. But by week two, my cheeks felt tight. Not irritated — just… thirsty. Like the serum evaporated before doing its job.
What surprised me: the HA actually holds up. My fine lines looked softer by day 10. But the fragrance? It fades fast, but why is it there at all? Greenwashed brands love to hide behind “natural essential oils” — same thing here.
Photo: Linh Ha / Unsplash
🧴 **Results: The Honest Version**
Texture improved by 30% — my chin bumps softened. Pores? Same size. Hydration was decent but not remarkable. No purge, no glow-up — just… fine.
Photo: Andrey Zvyagintsev / Unsplash
💚 **The Final Word**
It’s a decent lactic acid serum wrapped in a misleading package. The formula works — the branding doesn’t. If you buy it, buy it for the exfoliation, not the ethics.