L’Oreal Paris Hydra-Total 5 Skincare Review

When it comes to makeup, hair products and skincare L’Oreal is quite consistent with leading edge technology and quality. Recently I received a parcel of goodies to help me develop a beauty routine using the new Hydra-Total 5. The collection offers skincare that targets specific concerns including: evening skin tone, sensitive skin and combination skin.

I received the Hydra-Total 5 Ultra-Even range which includes 4 key products: day lotion, toner, scrub and moisturizer. This line is formulated to correct skin that has has been blemished by hyperpigmentation, sun exposure, acne or hormonal imbalances.

The products are called “Total 5” because they all have five key elements to help you achieve beautiful, healthy looking skin.

1. 24 hour moisture: fights dryness for completely hydrated skin

2. Reduces the look of dark spots with LHA

3. Evens skin

4. Illuminates

5. Smoothes

The face lotion is great for daily defense against UVA/UVB exposure with SPF 20. I have a difficult time finding a lotion-sunscreen combo that doesn’t clog pores and irritate my skin but this one works! The scent reminds me of a refreshing shampoo (in a good way) and although it has an ultra creamy texture it absorbs quickly with no greasiness or thickness. Surprisingly the formula doesn’t smell or feel like it contains SPF which is fabulous except it does leave a slight white cast on my skin. As far as sunscreens go this one may be ideal for those opposed to the slick, oily texture of traditional formulas but the white film may alter the appearance of makeup, especially on medium to deep complexions.

I use a toner after wiping off my makeup and washing my face in the evening so a formula that can also help brighten and even my complexion is an added bonus! The directions instruct you to use a cotton ball and dab rather than rub but it removes makeup and impurities better when I swipe. Like most toners the formula is made to cleanse, clear pores and prep skin for moisture so it does leave the face a little dry. I always follow up with cream or serum.

Exfoliation is essential to achieving smooth skin and this one also helps illuminate and cleanse. The scrub has a refreshing gel consistency with ultra fine beads to gently slough away dead surface cells. These particles aren’t very rough or abrasive and they provide mild exfoliation instead of complete resurfacing results which is ideal for my mid-week facial. You can also use the scrub a few times a week in place of your cleanser because it lathers well and abolishes excess oil and makeup. Since the scrub does contain Sodium Laureth Sulfate (found in many cleansers and shampoos) I don’t use it in combination with any other face wash to avoid drying out my skin.  

Last but not least is my favorite product in the collection – the Ultra-Even Moisturizer. This lush, whipped formula provides a blast of hydration to instantly relieve parched, tight skin but the finish is lightweight and non-greasy. In the jar the cream looks very thick, rich and luxurious (which I love) but once applied it absorbs well leaving skin velvety, smooth and soft. The only downside is that it also leaves a white film on my face that doesn't always blend well. This may have something to do with the skin evening ingredients that help dull blemishes and darkness but it makes my skin look unnaturally grey. Because of this I only use the cream at night and sometimes I layer it with serum or oil for extra moisture.

As far as the collection’s ability to correct and even skin tone, I haven’t noticed dramatic changes yet. Usually fading hyperpigmentaion is a gradual process and it doesn’t happen overnight. I do like that all of the products from moisturizers to cleanser target the same concerns for efficient, round the clock treatment although the addition of a foaming cleanser would have made the set more complete.I will definitely continue to test these to their full potential.

You can find Hydra-Total 5 products at drugstores nationwide
#5Works
#BeyondHydration

*products were provided for review