Origins • A Perfect World White Tea Skin Guardian • Treatments

gigglesbugg on 3/5/2011 3:26:00 AM more reviews by gigglesbugg

Age: 25-29   Skin: Combination, Medium, Neutral   Hair: Black, Straight, Fine   Eyes: Brown    

I bought it because I needed a serum and this was on sale. That should have been my first clue. I don't like the way it feels on my skin... heavy and gross. After 2 weeks my skin feels tight and dry with a bit more redness than before. I've stopped using it.

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amberlea on 3/2/2011 9:43:00 AM more reviews by amberlea

Age: 30-35   Skin: Other   Hair: Other   Eyes: Other    

I like the idea of this product, white tea, mimosa, bergamot...the scent is lovely but the silicone (1st ingredient!) feels so heavy on my face, like my skin can't breath, my pores feel clogged. So even if some of the ingredients soothe, the silicone preventing my skin from breathing stops me from using this product. It's always sitting on the shelf. I will never buy this again. I have bought it a second time thinking it would be different, but its back to being tossed aside. I'll use it around my eyes and on my neck, but not on any place where pores are a problem.

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maroonlove on 1/12/2011 4:44:00 PM more reviews by maroonlove

Age: 30-35   Skin: Acne-prone, Fair-Medium   Hair: Brunette   Eyes: Brown    

I have been using this product for the last 6 months and it has been good, good for makeup to sit nicely on the skin

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themerchanwifey on 11/10/2010 9:54:00 PM more reviews by themerchanwifey

Age: 25-29   Skin: Combination, Fair-Medium, Warm   Hair: Blond, Straight, Fine   Eyes: Hazel    

Picked this up in an amazing combo pack with the White Tea Toner. I was so excited to try this out, but my joy did not last for long. On a positive note, I love the smell, the pump is great, nice and sanitary. A little bit goes a long way, I was using half a pump and it produced a perfect smooth surface ready for make up or moisturizer. BUT the downside far out weighed all this positive. I broke out like CRAZY about a week after I started using this. I mean 12 pimples/white heads all on my face/neck at the same time. I am so disappointed! Love the toner, but yeah really missed the mark on this one for me.

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*TOP REVIEWER* msclaudia on 9/13/2010 10:50:00 PM more reviews by msclaudia

Age: 19-24   Skin: Combination, Fair-Medium   Hair: Brown   Eyes: Brown    

This stuff makes your skin look and feel smoother instantly because of the silicone in it, but this isn't your skin transforming or any kind of skin miracle happening, it's more like what a primer does, silicone smoothing out the pores and skin.

As far as it being some kind of a miracle serum that the reviews on the Origins website on it makes it out to be, I didn't find it to be transformative at all. I think I'd use this as a nutrient rich primer for makeup but it really didn't make any noticeable changes in my skin. The idea that it protects your skin is nice I suppose but I don't like the idea of having a layer of silicone on my face overnight since it is recommended for AM and PM use. And also, come on... $50? And I went through it fast, one pump felt like it mainly ended up on the palm of my hands and not my face so I'd use a pump and a half.

I only bought this because I got a gift certificate to Origins, normally I wouldn't shell out $50 on Origins skincare since I've never used it or heard of anyone using or recommending their stuff. But people raved about this stuff on their website so I gave it a shot. A lot of people on Origins and on MUA raved about smoothness and softness but again, that's really just the silicone giving you that initial cosmetic effect. I'd probably dislike it more if I actually bought it, all in all ehhhh. Definitely not a repurchase item at that price point, if I were a daily foundation wearer I'd use it as primer but alas I'm not.

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*TOP REVIEWER* Laski on 8/16/2010 4:06:00 AM more reviews by Laski

Age: 30-35   Skin: Combination, Fair-Medium, Neutral   Hair: Brown, Straight, Medium   Eyes: Hazel    

Though I was at first also a bit put off by the siliconey feel of this product, I started to like it during the use over the last week. I find that in spite of its strange plasticky feel, it soaks in after few minutes and doesn´t leave my face shiny or with a suffocating feeling. Also, I didn´t have any problems yet with moisturizer or makeup balling up on top of it. I´m quite convinced about the antioxidant power of white tea and so I feel well protected. If I don´t find anything more convincing, I would probably buy it again.

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*TOP REVIEWER* pinkolive2010 on 7/29/2010 2:09:00 AM more reviews by pinkolive2010

Age: 30-35   Skin: Normal, Fair-Medium, Warm   Hair: Brunette, Relaxed, Medium   Eyes: Brown    

I cannot rave about this products enough, it is amazing. I am past the 30th milestone and we must take care of ourselves especially our skin. I think this is one of the best products I have found so far, and I use a lot of things on my face, I do not want any wrinkles. All I want is soft, radiant, velvety smooth skin, this gives my all of that plus it smells great, actually, I think I smells like sweet grapes, I don't know why, call me crazy, but I love the smell, the results, packaging, everything about it except for one thing, the price, its $50 for a little 1.7oz, this bottle probably last about 2 to 3 weeks, i guess I am using too much but i love the results and now, i have to save plently of backups. This is great stuff, love love love.

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*TOP REVIEWER* SophieH on 7/8/2010 5:11:00 PM more reviews by SophieH

Age: Unknown   Skin: Normal   Hair: Brown   Eyes: Blue    

I don't understand the positive reviews here.

If you're wondering why this product is called a "guardian" and not, say, a serum, a gel, or a treatment, that's because this is one of the strangest formulations for an antioxidant product you will ever see. They have decided to put the antioxidants in *primer* form, but not to be used as primer. This is not an oil-based liquid, not a water-based liquid, but a silicone-based OINTMENT. I was absolutely shocked the first time I used it; it felt like vaseline.

I have grudgingly used it as my daily antioxidant for the past several weeks now. All I have to show for it are tons of pimples (go figure; it certainly *feels* like it's suffocating my skin) and balling, pilling makeup every day. (In fairness, the pilling can be helped by using less of this product.) I have tried it with and without the moisturizer they recommend on top.

What I don't understand is how the antioxidants will ever penetrate the skin when they are suspended in this gluey stuff. Maybe the idea is to actually neutralize free radicals before they even reach the epidermis, but I have a feeling that's not how free radicals work, seeing as Every. Single. Other. antioxidant treatment on the market is in serum form. Therefore, I don't understand what this is doing. Even if the antioxidants did have the potential to neutralize free radicals this way, they certainly wouldn't be able to benefit your complexion in terms of healing, brightening, and collagen-building, since they don't penetrate at all.

The formula smells good, like basically all Origins products. It smells very good in fact--a refreshing orange-bergamot blend that is probably the only reason I managed to stick with this product for so long. It's nice and uplifting in the morning. However, don't be fooled. There are much better antioxidant products on the market, particularly for those who are susceptible to clogging. (I might add, I was using this with an acne medication that normally eliminates almost all of my pimples, but once I added this stuff, they were back plus more.)

5 out of 6 people found this review helpful.     Was this review helpful to you? Yes   No

*TOP REVIEWER* ragazza on 11/30/2009 2:12:00 PM more reviews by ragazza

Age: 36-43   Skin: Combination, Medium, Warm   Hair: Brown, Straight   Eyes: Brown    

I've used this over the spring and summer and found it leaves my skin perfectly smooth. Foundation glides on effortlessly and it is not at all greasy. It smells pleasant and does not cause me to break out.

2 out of 2 people found this review helpful.     Was this review helpful to you? Yes   No

oyster on 11/20/2009 3:40:00 AM more reviews by oyster

Age: 25-29   Skin: Combination, Tan   Hair: Black, Straight   Eyes: Hazel    

I got this product when I bought the Origins travel set, I had no idea what it was supposed to do with my face...but then it ran out while I was traveling. I didn't use it for about over a week and I noticed my skin wasn't as soft and became a little duller...I got a new bottle yesterday and applied it on, along with the Perfect World moisturizer tried for the first time, and I woke up with skin so soft. Honestly, I'm still not sure what the Skin Guardian does exactly but whatever makes me feel good :)

PS Dislike the package so much cos you have no idea how much is left before you have to throw it in a bin.

1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.     Was this review helpful to you? Yes   No

buttercup3 on 11/12/2009 4:05:00 PM more reviews by buttercup3

Age: 19-24   Skin: Acne-prone, Fair-Medium   Hair: Brown   Eyes: Brown    

It leaves my cheeks very soft and smooth, but if you have oily skin, i do not recommend you to try it. If you have combination skin, only apply it on your cheeks like I do.

1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.     Was this review helpful to you? Yes   No

*TOP REVIEWER* gribble on 10/11/2009 9:52:00 PM more reviews by gribble

Age: 19-24   Skin: Oily, Olive, Warm   Hair: Brown   Eyes: Brown    

I got given a sample of this by an SA just out of the blue, because she said she loved it so much she thought I would. And initially, she was so wrong, I absolutely hated it. It was thick and siliconey, and it stunk like rotting oranges. But over the last 2-3 weeks or so, forcing myself to use the sample, I have grown to love it (well, not the smell). I use it after my toner and before my moisturiser. I only need maybe half a pea sized amount for my entire face, which is what I was getting wrong in the beginning (using far too much feels really gross). This small amount spreads to a nice thin layer which seems to soften my skin and absorbs after a few minutes leaving it lovely and smooth. And apart from feeling wonderful, I can say that my skin is looking (post-nasty-breakout a few weeks ago) much improved. I have very uneven skin with pigmentation from zits and large pores on my cheeks, and this seems to make everything a little more "even" and glowy. This was the only change to my skincare since then so I am happy to attribute this improvement to that. My only issue? Actually purchasing the full size product! The store I got the sample from is out of stock, and no one ships to Australia. Sigh.

1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.     Was this review helpful to you? Yes   No

sweetantz on 8/28/2009 8:16:00 AM more reviews by sweetantz

Age: 25-29   Skin: Oily, Medium, Warm   Hair: Brown, Straight, Medium   Eyes: Brown    

Can you believe it that this only just got introduced in Australia?
www.kitcosmetics.com.au (it's only sold in this shop)
Anyway, I got a sample of this and maybe because it's right smack in the middle of winter, this serum works! It's velvety on the face and I only uses a pea size for the entire face. It matte my sunscreen (I've tried so many sunscreen and I haven't find one that doesn't make my face shiny - why is that?). It does keep my face hydrate well (maybe because I sealed it with JUJU?). Well, once the weather turn warmer I reckon I will see if it still works then. It is expensive (AUD$65 - 30ml), but I love the name guardian.

1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.     Was this review helpful to you? Yes   No

tickypost1 on 8/28/2009 2:10:00 AM more reviews by tickypost1

Age: 25-29   Skin: Acne-prone, Fair   Hair: Blond   Eyes: Brown    

I got this based on the reviews here and yes it's pretty good...stuff doesnt impress me much cause i have acne skin but i tried this and i liked it. you should get it..if you dont like it you can always return it if you buy it from macys..

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*TOP REVIEWER* Autumn13 on 8/11/2009 11:31:00 AM more reviews by Autumn13

Age: 36-43   Skin: Combination, Fair-Medium   Hair: Black   Eyes: Brown    

UPDATE: August 17:
Yikes! Friday I noticed that the red bumps that I thought were due to BE were back and the only thing that I added again was this...the serum really excited because I was going to be able to use this up but no. I stopped using it on Friday and today, the red bumps are gone, gone, gone and so is this one. :-(


I purchased this before I joined MUA and found out about it thru the reviews on the net and joined MUA shortly thereafter. The product claims the following:

“It helps banish youth offenders long before they cause visible signs of oxidation, deterioration, dehydration. Boswellia sets up a secure sanctuary against age-accelerating static and stress.”

It must be doing something right? I mean, its job is to slow down the visible signs of maturity. I purchased this early June of this year and joined MUA. I bought it as a preventative. But, since it was so expensive, $50+, I wasn’t sure that it was really preventing anything. So, I stopped using it on July 1 and no changed to my overall skin texture or appearance. Then, I decided to write a review on this product on August 1 but I saw MUA’s engk916 review. Engk916 said that she changed her routine…moisturizer, serum and then sun block. Right there and there, I decided that much like her, I didn’t want to waste the product so I changed my routine. Moisturizer, sun block and then I seal it with a “kiss” or rather with the serum. Many mentioned that it has silicone. What better product to seal in the moisture of my moisturizer and defend my skin from the outside weather, pollution and other offenders. It hasn’t been two weeks but I do see a difference, a glow, dewiness but I don’t know if it’s because of my new moisturizer from H20. I purchased the new line from H20 on Aug 1. But, the idea of using this product as sealing the products that are suppose to help my skin and prevent offenders from penetration sounds like a good battle plan. Will I repurchase? Probably not this particular serum since I would rather spend the money on the good moisturizer and sun block. There are other serums out there with very good rating. Time will tell if I return to Origin.

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linseyp on 11/30/2008 9:39:00 PM more reviews by linseyp

Age: 30-35   Skin: Acne-prone, Fair   Hair: Brunette   Eyes: Green    

I never know if this actually doers anything or not. Or if it's preventing more than I'm aware of. Every Christmas I get a ttube in my stocking. So I use it but, would never buy it for myself. I know it's suppose to protect my skin from stuff but after a few year's of use now it has not stopped fine lines, sagging skin, reduced any spots or evened my skin tone. I don't even notice when I don't use it for a month or so. It's a serum and feels like a silicone going on. My face is very smooth and baby soft for 5 or 10 minutes and I guess it helps make up go on pretty smoothly. Other than that I'm clueless. I do like the pump and you can sorta see when you're about to run out.

4 out of 4 people found this review helpful.     Was this review helpful to you? Yes   No

engk916 on 9/10/2008 2:03:00 PM more reviews by engk916

Age: 30-35   Skin: Dry, Fair   Hair: Black   Eyes: Brown    

i read an article about the best things i could do for my skin (e.g., use antioxidants, add retinol, use sunblock, etc.) and realized the one thing missing from my daily regime was the antioxidant serum. after doing a bit of research, i settled on the origins white tea skin guardian serum. i hated this product the first few times i used it - with my dry sensitive skin, the silicone formula created a barrier that my moisturizer couldn't penetrate. i hated the jelly-like consistence and dried-glue feel it gave my skin, plus i didn't see any difference in my skin. however, rather than wasting the bottle, i decided to use it up but changed my application. i first use my shiseido moisturizer, then skin guardian and then sunblock. the difference is AMAZING!! coming into my mid-30s, my dull skin is taking on a healthy pink glow, and a radiance that it never had before. i've been using shisiedo moisturizer and sunscreen for years, and the skin guardian is the only change. after these results, i will be a lifelong Origins customer and this serum has earned a permanent place on my sink!

4 out of 4 people found this review helpful.     Was this review helpful to you? Yes   No

haveaguinness on 7/26/2008 9:09:00 PM more reviews by haveaguinness

Age: 36-43   Skin: Normal   Hair: Brown   Eyes: Blue    

I had a sample of this so I can't say anything about the long-term effects of the product, if any. However, I can report that it is a thick, syrupy, old-school serum. It's also heavily fragranced, and though I don't have sensitive skin, I imagine that could be very irritating for many people. For me to wear a serum on a daily basis it needs to be light, nonfragranced and barely detectable, since I will be wearing other products over it. A no-go for me.

1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.     Was this review helpful to you? Yes   No

Li08 on 7/10/2008 7:10:00 PM more reviews by Li08

Age: 25-29   Skin: Normal, Fair-Medium   Hair: Brown   Eyes: Hazel    

I'm in two minds about this product, it's lovely to use but i think it is responsible for what feels and looks like cystic acne on my jawline. I've never had any breakouts there before and something has really irritated the area.

But back to my first point. It is lovely. It feels lovely, it leaves skin with an even glow and is a very nice moisturizer/primer under make up. It is refreshing, as someone said here it is 'cushiony' and if it weren't for the breakout this would be Holy Grail for me. I like it so much I want to find a want to keep incorporating it into my routine, I guess it's the silicones that are the problem.

I would buy this product again, but as part of an effective routine. Until I make it work I will not be replacing it. That is how much I love and hate it!

Also I hate products where it is visible in the tube, as a result I always keep it out of the light.

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*TOP REVIEWER* SaraLee2 on 6/9/2008 12:55:00 PM more reviews by SaraLee2

Age: 44-55   Skin: Combination, Medium, Neutral   Hair: Blond, Straight, Fine   Eyes: Brown    

UPDATE: I've replaced this with Olay's Regenerist frag-free serum. It has definitely made more of a difference in my skin tone than this did and the price is comparable.

I've been using this now for 2 months and I really like it. I just love spreading the thick, jelly like serum on my face and neck. A full pump covers both easily with great slip. Feels soothing and smooth, not greasy like Smashbox primers. My oily dehydrated skin definitely needs a primer, and this one doesn't feel like I'm spreading a layer of grease on my skin. Makes my skin feel soft and comfortable and smells terrific...very citrusy. I use it after Vit C serum and before SS. Doesn't ball up, seems to help even my skin tone, minimize pores and doesn't clog them (while I rarely break out I clog easily), and makes my skin look brighter and better. I notice the difference most when I don't use it. My skin looks more dull and I'm more oily by the afternoon. $50 for the larger size (1.7 oz). After 2 months I still have 3/4 of a bottle left.

1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.     Was this review helpful to you? Yes   No