Protea, a skincare brand founded by Mackenzie Jorns, is on a mission to make skincare more approachable and accessible for all. Born out of her personal struggle with late-stage Lyme disease and the subsequent skin issues she faced, Jorns was inspired by the power of Eastern medicine to create a line of skincare products that promote skin health through natural ingredients. Her humanitarian spirit extends beyond product creation, as Protea donates SkinConfidence™ Kits to unhoused women in homeless shelters with every purchase.
Jorns' unique background as a biracial individual who presents as white has also shaped the ethos of Protea. She experienced firsthand the difficulty of finding skincare products that catered to her specific needs and understood her unique mixed skin. This led her to introduce Protea’s Skin Support Consultation platform, a service that matches customers with estheticians specializing in various skin ailments, treatments, and skin tones.
In this review, we will delve into the effectiveness of Protea's skincare products, their commitment to holistic and inclusive skincare, and the impact of their humanitarian efforts.
Slumber Serum
The Slumber Serum is a nightly treatment is a powerhouse of moisture-boosting, pH-balancing goodness that will transformed your skincare routine. The key ingredients are what make this serum stand out. It contains Alpha Lipoic Acid for brightening and reducing fine lines, Hyaluronic Acid for plumping and moisturizing the skin, and Coenzyme Q10, an antioxidant that protects the skin against free radicals.
It also includes Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) for its anti-inflammatory properties and moisturizing benefits, Vitamin A to reduce fine lines and normalize sebum production, and Vitamins C and E to brighten, firm, and promote the natural functioning of the skin barrier. One of the best things about this serum is that it's free from Gluten, Phthalates, and Parabens. It's made in the USA and is Leaping Bunny certified, meaning it's never tested on animals. Plus, it's made with 33% organic content. The packaging is also eco-friendly.
"The first thing you notice is its relaxing rose aroma, thanks to the natural rose water ingredient. It's not just about the scent though, this serum delivers on its promises - it plumps, balances, and provides aging support benefits. What I love about the Slumber Serum is that it simplifies my skincare routine. With this one product, I've been able to cut down on the number of products I use, while achieving better and faster anti-aging results." said Jeanel Alvarado, Founder & CEO of RETAILBOSS.
The Antioxidant Elixir
The Antioxidant Elixir from Protea is vegan, unscented, lightweight serum is pH-balanced and designed to keep your skin youthful and balanced while fighting free radicals. One of the standout features of this elixir is its key ingredients - Organic Blue Green Algae and Organic White Willow Bark.
"It's a versatile product that caters to all skin types, but it's particularly beneficial for those with dry skin. It left my skin feeling smooth, firm, and free of impurities, it's certainly a potent serum that leaves me refreshed and rejuvenated." said Alvarado.
The latter soothes irritated skin and acts as a natural source of Salicylic Acid, providing gentle exfoliation and antibacterial elements. It's also made in the USA and is Leaping Bunny certified, meaning it's never tested on animals. With 63% organic content, you can be confident that you're applying only the best to your skin.
Glowing Pumpkin Enzyme Mask
What sets the Glowing Pumpkin Enzyme Mask apart are its key ingredients. It's packed with more than 100 nutrients and powerful enzymes that invigorate and nourish the skin. The pumpkin provides essential fatty acids and Vitamins A and E, which soften and soothe the skin while boosting collagen production.
The Vitamin C brightens dull complexions, helps prevent damage, and repairs hyper-pigmentation. Vitamin E acts as a powerful antioxidant that heals, protects, and nourishes the skin. The addition of cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg helps to even out skin tone and increase circulation to the surface of the skin.
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Glycolic Acid rejuvenates the skin by helping to slough away old surface skin cells, reducing the appearance of fine lines, irregular pigmentation, and age spots, while decreasing enlarged pores. The application process is simple and straightforward. After washing your face, you apply a thin layer of the mask, avoiding the eye area. After 5-10 minutes, you rinse it off with cool water. The mask has a pleasant pumpkin pie scent, which adds to the overall sensory experience. However, remember it's for external use only!
"The pumpkin mask from Protea is a game-changer, this vegan, pH-balanced mask is not just a product, but an experience that leaves your skin feeling softer, brighter, and rejuvenated. It's like a spa treatment right at home - it definitely smells like rich pumpkin spice!" said Jeanel Alvarado, Founder & CEO of RETAILBOSS. "It's a treat for the skin and the senses, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking to enhance their skincare routine."
The mask is formulated for all skin types and helps reduce puffiness and acne inflammation, adding a glowing appearance to the skin. It's made without added gluten, phthalates, and parabens, and is proudly made in the USA. Plus, it's never tested on animals, being Leaping Bunny certified.
Rejuvenating Facial Polish
The Rejuvenating Facial Polish from Protea truly lives up to its name. It's a blend of organic Jojoba Seed Oil and Fine Grain Walnut Shell Powder, which work together to soothe, moisturize, and gently exfoliate the skin. The product also doubles as a lip scrub, making it a versatile addition to any skincare routine.
One of the standout features of this facial polish is its use of Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) - Glycolic, Tartaric, Malic, Lactic, and Citric Acids. These ingredients are known for their exfoliating properties, helping to clear away breakouts and remove dead skin cells. This increases cell turnover, which in turn aids in the healing of the skin and the elimination of fine lines and wrinkles.
Another notable ingredient is Peppermint Oil, which not only gives the product a refreshing minty scent but also reduces inflammation and promotes circulation. The inclusion of Rosehip Seed Oil, an antioxidant, helps the skin look and feel refreshed.
"This product visibly brightens skin by lifting away unwanted discoloration. It's like having a spa-like exfoliation experience at home." said Alvarado.
Final Verdict
Protea skincare products are a true testament to the power of holistic and Eastern medicine! These products not only cater to the diverse needs of different skin types but also make skincare more approachable and accessible for all. The brand's commitment to natural ingredients and individualized care plans is commendable.
Moreover, the humanitarian aspect of the brand, which includes donating SkinConfidence™ Kits to unhoused women in homeless shelters with every purchase, adds a unique and admirable dimension to their mission. Therefore, Protea skincare products are not just about enhancing beauty, but also about promoting skin health, inclusivity, and social responsibility.
