I got some samples of Pangea Organics cream for combination skin Nigerian ginger, sweet lavender & thyme over at Foxglove and I totally love it.

Here’s how I use it:
– After cleansing, toning & applying a serum, I apply a bit of this cream and massage it in. I do this at night and in the morning if it’s overcast (hello San Francisco!)

The upsides:
– I love it when products come in a pump. One because then each application can come from a measured dose. This makes the product last longer because there aren’t any accidental spills or “over scoops” of product. Two because it’s so much more germ free – no fingers in jars leaving behind whatever was on the fingers when they reached into the jars.

– The price point is very approachable. I wouldn’t call it “inexpensive” but at $36 a bottle, it’s definitely affordable. Especially if you take their advice and use only a little at a time (see above point about pumps).

Effacacy
– It really did keep the oiliness of my skin to a minimum, even after a day of work, tho, it does not mattify.

– The mornings after applying it at night, my skin felt super soft and supple.

The Company
– This link [they removed the link in question] helps to sum up what I like about this company. I also like how much information they put on their website for consumers to inform themselves about what Pangea Organics is all about.

The Ingredients
– Each batch is handcrafted using organic, fair trade (when possible) ingredients in a cruelty-free environment. And they say they never use petroleum-based ingredients, sulfates, detergents, synthetic preservatives, artificial colors or fragrances.

– From their website regarding their “key ingredient:”

GRAPE LEAF EXTRACT

The use of wine for its beneficial properties dates back to Egyptian hieroglyphics dated 2400 B.C. and is mentioned in a number of Bible verses. In ancient times, wine was used as a tonic and astringent. In modern day, grape leaf is a well-known antioxidant and makes the perfect addition to anti-aging skin care formulas. This potent extract form offers antioxidants that support collagen retention, stimulate micro-circulation, prevent moisture-loss, protect from environmental damage, scavenge free-radicals, soothe, purify and regulate oily shine.

The not-so-upsides:
– It’s a little bit rich and creamy at first for those combination skinned individuals who have trouble keeping their t-zones clear of oil and tend towards products that are drying. That said, it’s much better for the clarity of the pores to keep the skin well hydrated and moisturized. This allows the skin to be cleaned easier by keeping the pores soft and their contents soft as well (as this makes for easier removal either at home or in a facial). So, without proper education, this product may put off some consumers with combination skin simply because it does a good job for OVERALL skin health and balance.

The Scent
– There’s something about the scent of each of the Pangea products I’ve tried that just doesn’t quite work for me. They all have a little olfactory twist to them that’s not unpleasant, just not my thing. I haven’t quite figured it out with specifics yet.

– This product specifically has a bit of an alcohol scent to it when I first apply it but in the grand scheme of things, that’s not a big deal. It’s not a lingering scent and they are very open about the alcohol they use in one of their FAQs, so I know it’s not drying my skin out (also, I don’t FEEL that it’s drying).

I can definitely see myself purchasing this product the next time I need a moisturizer. If you’re feeling inspired, they are having some sales right now, until July 31st, so check it out. I think they offer discounts regularly too, tho, I’m not affiliated with them at all nor am I on their mailing list.