Crème de la Mer Review
Crème de la Mer Overview
Can the secret to youthful skin really be right under the sea? Crème de la Mer markets itself as “the Original Moisture Miracle”, claiming their success comes from a “miracle broth” which revitalizes skin. Naturally, the proprietary blend of ingredients is a closely guarded secret. But what La Mer will say is that they hand-harvest giant sea kelp from the waters off Vancouver Island, which helps explain some of the price tag, at least. The story starts with Dr. Max Huber in his lab. One unfortunate day there was an accident and he suffered serious injuries which resulted in unsightly scars on his face and neck. In an effort to heal his skin, he began studying the regenerative properties of sea kelp. And the rest, well, is thousands of experiments, over a decade of research, and eventually, history.
A Closer Look at Crème de la Mer
Crème de la Mer has been around since 1994. To have lasted in the ever-competitive beauty industry for 25 years, it must be doing something right. La Mer claims that their fermentation process of giant sea kelp along with “other pure ingredients” is the key to their so-called cell-renewing elixir. Just a glance at the ingredients label shows that the product certainly has a few natural ingredients that may move some beauty aficionados who are interested in moisturization and its soothing effects.
Despite the presence of these ingredients, it should be noted that de la Mer doesn’t contain most of today’s latest in innovative wrinkle-fighting ingredients. No modern science derivatives like Retinol or Hyaluronic acid. While this could be beneficial to some consumers who prefer mostly natural ingredients and are less than thrilled about synthetics, a look a little further down the list shows that while La Mer includes several all-natural extracts, there are a few less-than-natural inclusions as well.
This product does contain some ingredients that are known to be irritating to those with sensitive skin or certain allergies, so if you’ve experienced problems like these in the past, be certain to fully review the ingredients list prior to purchasing this product. The most important and commonly problematic ingredients in Crème de la Mer are explored below.
Positives
- Creates a renewed appearance of the skin on your face and neck
- Promotes deep hydration and conditions skin
- Skin will be smoother and more supple
- Produces a soft, glowing complexion
Negatives
- Undisclosed ingredients in the “Miracle” Broth
- No scientific studies or test results
- Very expensive at $180 per ounce
- Scented with unknown “fragrance”
Key Ingredients
La Mer is proud of their ingredients, which shows in the use of the term “miracle” in their proprietary broth blend. A quick skim of the label shows that they strive to use many natural extracts from plants, leaves, and nuts. While this is typically a great sign, there are a few more ingredients closer to the bottom of the list which are still slightly bothersome. “Fragrance” is the mystery meat of the beauty world, since anything with a scent can be secretly included there and nowhere else.
“Miracle” Broth
This patented, proprietary blend of ingredients has been scientifically formulated for maximum moisturizing, and then fermented for three to four months in order to unlock the anti-aging potential. La Mer claims this is the key to their luxurious cream, and that the broth is what helps moisturize the skin for a more youthful look. The only known ingredients in this broth are giant sea kelp, “natural extracts”, and a few drops from the batch previous.
Citrus Aurantifolia (Lime Extract)
Most commonly, lime extract is utilized for its powerful antioxidant properties, which can protect skin from free radicals and potentially slow down the aging process. However, lime extract is also a skin sensitizer, meaning that the little cooling sensation and tingle when the product is applied is thanks in part to the citrus fruit within it. In too high concentrations however, lime extract can be too harsh and irritate the skin, causing redness and patchiness.
Paraffin
While it can come in many forms, Paraffin is a mineral oil used in a wide variety of skin care products. It is an inexpensive ingredient, but works to make skin feel immediately smoother to the touch. Derived from petroleum, paraffin has a low melting point, meaning even in its oil form, it melts into liquid on the skin, instantly filling in creases and making skin feel smooth. However, Paraffin has been known to clog pores, as it is not easy to remove from skin.
Full List of Ingredients
Seaweed (Algae) Extract , Mineral Oil\Paraffinum Liquidum\Huile Minerale , Petrolatum , Glycerin , Isohexadecane , Citrus Aurantifolia (Lime) Extract , Microcrystalline Wax /Cera Microcristallina/Cire Microcristalline , Lanolin Alcohol , Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed Oil , Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil , Magnesium Sulfate , Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed , Medicago Sativa (Alfalfa) Seed Powder , Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seedcake , Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Seed Meal , Sodium Gluconate , Potassium Gluconate , Copper Gluconate , Calcium Gluconate , Magnesium Gluconate , Zinc Gluconate , Paraffin , Tocopheryl Succinate , Niacin , Beta-Carotene , Decyl Oleate , Aluminum Distearate , Octyldodecanol , Citric Acid , Cyanocobalamin , Magnesium Stearate , Panthenol , Limonene , Geraniol , Linalool , Hydroxycitronellal , Citronellol , Benzyl Salicylate , Citral , Methylchloroisothiazolinone , Methylisothiazolinone , Alcohol Denat. , Fragrance (Parfum)
Directions: How to Use Crème de la Mer
La Mer recommends establishing a “soothing ritual” when applying their product. Wash face gently and pat dry first. Then, warm a small amount of product between your fingers for a few seconds, allowing it to melt slightly, until the opaqueness fades and it becomes almost translucent. Then, massage gently onto face, neck, and décolletage.
If you are concerned about skin irritation, please perform a small sample test on the back of your hand at least 24 hours prior to application to the face. If redness or peeling occurs, stop use immediately.
The Final Word on Crème de la Mer
Crème de la Mer touts itself as the creme de la creme of the skin cream world. It claims to be a luxurious, lavish experience, and has a price to match what it says it offers. Whether or not it is worth the hype seems to fall into question, however. Yes, it has several natural ingredients, and results can be seen instantly. But those results are likely not permanent, and many consumers have had issue with either irritation or dissatisfaction.
For more information on beauty and skin care, feel free to browse our other articles, or see our top choices below.
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