CNP | Propolis Energy Serum: Review

Disclaimer: The product featured was provided for review.

A subsidiary of The Face Shop, CNP (Cosmetics and Pharmaceutical) is a Korean skincare brand developed in collaboration with dermatologists to provide pharmaceutical-grade skincare products. The brand is best known for its propolis line, featuring antioxidant-rich propolis extract from beehives. I recently got the chance to try their key product, the Propolis Energy Serum (C$38 for 15 ml) and wanted to share my thoughts with you today. To read about this nourishing serum designed for dull or dry skin, click......

CNP | Propolis Energy Serum

A mixture of tree sap, beeswax, and bee saliva, propolis has been used in traditional medicine since the ancient greeks. Known for its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, the ingredient is very popular in Korean skincare. I've actually been curious to try it for a long time so I was very excited to test out the CNP Propolis Energy Serum. Made with hydrating hyaluronic acid, soothing beta-glucans (yeast-derived sugar), and antioxidant-rich madecassoside extract (from Centella Asiatica, aka Cica), the Propolis Energy Serum contains 10% propolis.

CNP | Propolis Energy Serum

With a slightly viscous texture akin to that of saliva (for a lack of a better comparison), the serum has no discernable scent. It applies very nicely on the skin and immediately hydrates. The serum is not oily at all and there's no sticky residue. Additionally, it layers nicely with other serums, creams, and oils. Although the serum is designed for dry and dull skin, it works wonderfully on my oily, combination skin. Even after the first use, I've noticed softer, more hydrated skin. The only gripe I have with the CNP Propolis Energy Serum is the price. The standard size for serums is 30 ml but with the Propolis Energy Serum, you only get 15 ml for C$38, which really isn't a lot. Comparable products on the market (ex. COSRX Propolis Light Ampoule) cost about the same but offers double the volume. I've not tried any other propolis serums before so I don't know how the CNP version ranks but based on the price, it definitely makes me want to look at alternatives when I am done with this bottle, which is already 30% empty. Overall, I would absolutely recommend this serum if you are looking for a boost of nourishment and hydration in your skincare. I'm definitely going to try some other propolis skincare products in the future so I will update you on how they compare to the CNP serum!

Ingredients: Water, Propolis Extract (10%), Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Polysorbate 20, Sophora Flavescens Extract, Imperata Cylindrica Root Extract, Propanediol, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Carbomer, Arginine, Madecassoside, Allantoin, Codonopsis Lanceolata Root Extract, Melissa Officinalis (Lemon Balm) Leaf Extract, Ficus Carica (Fig) Fruit Extract, Punica Granatum (Pomegranate) Extract, PEG-8, Pentylene Glycol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Pelargonium Graveolens (Geranium) Flower Oil, Beta-Glucan, Sodium Citrate, Hydroxyphenyl Propamidobenzoic Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin, Honey Extract, Sodium Lactate, Potassium Sorbate, Citric Acid, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Biotin, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Disodium EDTA

Availability:

CNP is available in stores at Nature Collection and online at ca.naturecollection.com.