Hype Worthy: Ren Glycol Lactic Radiance Renewal Mask Review

I adore chemical exfoliants. They are, in my mind, way more effective than a physical one and can be used on sensitive skin. Let me explain that last part. Most products that are sold in stores, that contain chemical/enzymatic exfoliants, generally don't have a low enough PH to make it as aggressive as a full on peel. There are definitely exceptions to that, however, in most cases it's true. Obviously if you have a skin condition or are hypersensitive, you should be cautious regardless.

I've seen REN in Sephora for a very long time and have read rave reviews from Green Bloggers, such as Ana. Their philosophy is basically Performance, Purity, and Pleasure. Performance being results, Purity being natural, and Pleasure being self-explanatory. With a Sephora gift card in hand and high hopes, I picked up this mask.

Description: A potent bio active peel mask designed to renew the complexion, reduce the appearance of fine lines and dramatically improve skin tone. Results:

• Removes dead skin cells to renew the complexion
• Skin looks brighter, healthier, more radiant
• Helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
• Combats congestion, blackheads and blemishes

Aside from the steep price tag, this mask contains phenoxyethanol. While I don't have a strong opinion on it, I've subconsciously been avoiding it. Still, I have no regrets because this mask totally delivers! I love the airless packaging and the fact that the pump has a little cap, followed by another cap. You with me? The product basically stays fresh as there's no way for air or contaminants to enter. It smells like oranges, has an orange-ish shade and is quite sticky. Luckily, REN has included a cloth to help remove the mask. It tingles a bit upon application and leaves my face a tad red upon removal, but my skin is left noticeably softer, brighter, and more even toned. I also have noticed that it reduces current breakouts and limits new ones. I was using it once a week, but have since been using it twice a week, at night, and my skin has improved greatly. My makeup goes on much smoother and, of course, that could be a combination of this mask with the other skin care products that I'm using. Current skin care routine to come.  If you're not concerned about phenoxyethanol or have the extra money to treat yourself, I highly recommend trying it out and think it's one of the few products that stands up to the hype.

Retails for approx. $66 CAN for 50ml/1.7oz. Can be purchased through Sephora or you can click here to find a retailer closest to you.

Have you tried this mask before? Thoughts?