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They said we’ll outgrow our pimples, but I’m already in my 30s and I still break out when I’m about to get my period! Granted, they’re no longer as bad as in my teens, and now I have new-found appreciation for oily skin as long as I have it under control, but that doesn’t make breaking out any less of a let-down for me.

So when I start to get pimples, I know my period is about to come. My face clears pretty much after my red days, but that doesn’t stop me from finding ways to keep breakouts at bay once and for all. I used to turn to products with tea tree oil, but they have a tendency to dry my skin. It wasn’t until recently that I discovered Korean beauty brand Yadah, which has been available in Beauty Bar for some time now but just hasn’t been getting that much attention—until now.

Yadah (which means “wisdom”) is available in 11 countries and is known for its range of botanical skincare products for teens and young adults formulated with natural plant extracts, certified organic by ECOCERT. The formulations are 100% free from artificial colorfing, preservatives, mineral oil, and sulphate, and do not contain animal extracts of any kind. They are most suitable for young skin, as this particular age range has more sensitive skin, but I daresay they’re great for adults with sensitive skin and who continue to suffer from breakouts—like me!

The key ingredient found in all Yadah products is the native Opuntia Ficus extract, a unique cactus species organically grown and cultivated in Korea known for its strong anti-inflammatory and high potent antioxidant properties.

One of its most popular lines is the Anti-T (Anti-Trouble) series, which uses Rubus Coreanus Root Extract that can effectively treat acne. These non-acnegenic skincare products have a soothing formula that gently refines skin. I incorporated several of the products from the Anti-T range into my skincare routine, and I’m happy with the results! I’m also glad that they’re so affordable!

Yadah skincare definitely helped keep my PMS breakouts at bay. Friends noticed that my skin looked fresh and flawless while using the Anti-T range. Some even commented my skin had a very healthy glow. A few blemishes managed to slip out a few days before my period, but they were tiny and dry, easy to cover up, and were gone in two to three days (find out below which product helped). I also liked the products’ fresh, relaxing scent. They go on gentle, yet they obviously work. The range is really meant for the sensitive skin of teens—and ‘feeling-teen’ women like me, haha.

Read on for my detailed reviews of each of the products from the Anti-T range that I managed to incorporate into my skincare routine for over a month now.

Anti-Trouble Bubble Cleanser, P575
This bubble-type cleanser in an anti-bacterial pump that eliminates possible infection during use is gentle yet effective on acne-ridden skin as it has natural salicylic acid. You only have to use a small amount to form a lather, and it’s safe to use morning and night as it effectively removes oil and stubborn makeup without drying skin.

Anti-T Toner, P675
After washing my face, I use the toner from the Anti-Trouble range. Unlike other toners you have to pour out of a bottle, you can just conveniently pump some of this onto your cotton square and gently pat it onto your face until completely absorbed. It contains the patented Rubus Coreanus Root extract that prevents skin damage and improves skin, making it smooth and bright, as well as the organically grown Opuntia Ficus extract that treats troubled skin by moisturizing and controlling sebum. It has the effect of astringent, but it actually soothes skin. It’s so gentle and hydrating, unlike other anti-acne toners that tend to sting, burn, and dry my sensitive skin.

Anti-T Emulsion, P695
I must confess that I’m really picky when it comes to moisturizers because I have oily skin, and this one works for me because it hydrates without the grease. It also contains Rubus Coreanus Root extracts and organically grown Opuntia Ficus extract, so it controls oil while moisturizing skin. After the Anti-T toner, I put a small amount of this fluid moisturizer from the anti-bacterial pump onto my fingers and pat it gently onto my face at night. It’s super light on skin and gets absorbed really fast.

Anti Trouble Spot Cream, P250
You see, my PMS breakouts can be really stubborn, so even if the Anti-T bubble cleanser, toner, and emulsion already improved my skin condition and oil production, a few tiny blemishes insisted on popping up on my skin. This tiny tube is my face-saver. It contains Wintergreen Leaf Extract, often called natural Salicylic Acid, which controls troubled skin, tightens pores, and makes skin clean and smooth. I just put a small amount after cleansing, toning, and moisturizing using the Anti-T line and apply it on the trouble spots morning and night. It dries the tiny breakouts without causing the rest of my skin to flake. And in two to three days, the blemishes are gone—without scars! By the way, the toner and spot corrector’s scents are my favorites.

Anti-T Mist, P295
I have to admit I have lazy days (and nights), too, and sometimes I just can’t be bothered to use the toner and emulsion, so this comes in handy. This fresh Anti-Trouble Mist has salicylic acid from Winter Green Leaf extracts that help soothe troubled skin and Rubus Coreanus Root Extract that provides intense moisture. After washing my face with the bubble cleanser, I hold the bottle six to seven inches away and spray this onto my face whenever it feels dry, especially on days when I’m breaking out. The micro-particle spray helps the mist to be absorbed evenly by skin. You can also keep it in your bag for a burst of freshness anytime you need it during the day.

Yadah Oh My Sun Block SPF 35 PA++, P425
Another favorite product, this daily-wear colorless and highly moisturizing sunscreen offers high-level protection against harmful UVA and UVB rays and is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. I skip the emulsion when I use this during the day. It has a lightweight texture and matte finish—not sticky, oily, or shiny at all. It complements the Anti-T line because it helps minimize oil while moisturizing and refreshing skin. It has a nice mild scent, too. It’s easy to apply and goes on smooth. I love the tube’s size—it’s so convenient to pop in my purse or makeup kit. It’s also a great makeup base! Actually, all the Yadah products I listed above sit well under this SPF and makeup.

Speaking of which, check out my feature on Yadah’s makeup products here!

Yadah skincare products are available in all Beauty Bar branches nationwide and online.

Photos by Trixie Reyna

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