Last week, I told you about a lovely serum that makes my skin look well rested, as if I’d just had a full sleep quota instead of stealing some of that quota for my bedtime reading or TV hehe…
How apt therefore, that there should be a moisturiser that gives your skin a kickstart to the day with a shot of espresso no less! If you are anything like me, you’d be a bear in the mornings before your coffee. I walk into the office, and the first thing I do is pick up my mug and head to the coffee machine. Do not even attempt to talk to me before my first coffee because all you’d get is a snarl and a baring of teeth. I’m a bear. Once I’ve had that first sip of caffeinated goodness, black no sugar please, hackles are lowered, teeth are kept away and I’m human again.
So when I learned that it is this kickstart to the skin that Origins GinZing Energy-boosting Moisturizer offers our skin, I was most intrigued.
This little orange tub holds a number of surprises, to me at least. It contains caffeine extract from coffee beans (yay!) and Panax Ginseng to give your skin a boost of energy. Most of us would be familiar with the effects of caffeine on the body. Most of us won’t be able to function without LOL! As for ginseng, it has been used as a herbal tonic through the ages to heal, rejuvenate, boost energy in various herbal infusions.
So here comes the other surprise. With a name like GinZing, and knowing full well there is ginseng extract in there, I was fully expecting to be hit by a strong, musky herbal smell of the ginseng root. Anyone who has ever walked into a Chinese herb shop will know what I mean. Boom! Floors you with the heady smell of ginseng (which I happen to like, mind you!)
But it doesn’t smell anything like ginseng! Doesn’t smell like coffee either! What this moisturiser smells of is…. oranges. Oranges? Talk about a boost to the senses, first thing in the morning!
So, other than giving our tired skin that kick it needs to wake up in the morning, the Origins GinZing moisturiser wakes up our senses with that fresh zesty smell of freshly peeled oranges. Very refreshing. Although I think they could dial it down a little. I’m not your biggest fan of anything that smells of oranges so I shouldn’t judge.
The cream itself is a gel-cream texture which is very lightweight on skin and very comfortable. I was told that this is one of those moisturisers that suit people with oily skin who are leery of putting too much product on because they fear it making them even oilier. If you are one of those, then I will suggest you take a look at this one.
For those with combination-dry skin like me, I was told that we may not find this sufficient. There is truth in that statement. I find it insufficient if I were to use it in the evening, but in the day, I was pleasantly surprised that it was alright for me. I sometimes layer it over a hydrating serum in the day and my skin feels comfortable.
However, I have also found that I can’t wear this for too long at a stretch because then, the lack of moisture is a little more telling. So, I personally prefer using the Make A Difference Plus+ cream myself. I feel that the Make A Difference Plus+ makes my skin feel better and it looks better too. This GinZing cream is comfortable but only for a week or so at a stretch. The smell of oranges does set me back a little because as I said, I’m not the biggest fan of orange scented anything so this is to be borne in mind if you are in the market for a lightweight gel-cream moisturiser.
The other thing many might like is the pricetag – it’s not small but it isn’t too heavy either. The GinZing moisturiser comes in at RM100/50ml which puts it on par with other similar brands and products in the market.
I didn’t notice any wonderful glow to my skin or if it looked any more perky after using this. All it did was hydrate my skin and leave it feeling comfortable and that is pretty much what I look for in a day moisturiser. My personal preference still lies with Make A Difference Plus+ but I won’t diss this one either 🙂
In a nutshell
The Origins GinZing Energy-Boosting Moisturiser is a lightweight gel-cream moisturiser that may be more suitable for those with oily skin looking for a simply no-frills hydrating moisturiser, or someone who is in the market for a lightweight day moisturiser. It is comfortable and absorbs into skin well without leaving any tacky feeling on skin. My skin does feel hydrated although I can’t use this one for too long at a stretch as it isn’t quite sufficient for my combination-dry skin. So, I use it when I have a hydrating serum on underneath or when it is hot and I want something light on skin. The strong smell of fresh oranges doesn’t quite sit well on my nose but if it does for you then you will like this. I don’t know if my skin enjoyed that shot of espresso delivered to it, but it was comfortable.
Pros: Lightweight gel texture, Absorbs quickly and comfortably into skin, Skin feels hydrated, Not sticky or tacky, A little goes a long way
Cons: Orange scent is a bit strong for me but dissipates
Who will like this: Anyone with oily skin who needs a lightweight moisturiser, Anyone who is in the market for a light moisturiser for use in the day
Here is the ingredient list for anyone interested.
There is silicone in there, but no parabens, mineral oil, petroleum, synthetic fragrance and colour etc so I suppose it sort of balances each other out LOL! I will caution that there is citrus oil in this so if you are sensitive to citrus oils in products, please take note because some people can’t handle that.
I have been asked how this compares to Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Oil Free gel cream and Clinique Moisture Surge Gel Cream and my answer is that I put them in the same category. They serve the market of people who are looking for lightweight moisturisers that deliver moisture to the skin and keep it hydrated and comfortable. Origins GinZing has the added benefits of “waking up tired skin” in addition to hydration but texture-wise I find them all similar and they are also roughly similarly priced. Go for whichever one you feel most comfortable using 🙂
Have you tried this one? Do you like orange scented products?
I believe there’s been a GinZing eye cream out in the market for a while already but I haven’t tried that, if you are waiting to ask LOL! I like citrus scents and I enjoy eating oranges but I find orange scented products a bit too strong and sweet somehow. Nice to smell but not quite me. This might also be why I prefer the Make A Difference Plus+ which I’m on my way to using up. It better not all run out on me at the same time! 😛 I know I’m a billion years late with this one after everyone in the local blog scene has gone through it but, no apologies 🙂 Consider this one a refresher – as fresh as the scent of GinZing haha! <- cheesy 😀
Paris B
Origins GinZing Energy-Boosting Moisturizer Price: RM100/50ml Availability: Origins stores and counters
Have it, tried it but not impressed with it. It is reasonably priced though. However, it is not hydrating enough especially when I stay in air conditioned room for many hours. I have better options when it comes to hydrating moisturizer. I use this moisturizer as a mask now. Better than throwing it away.
I found it was better over a hydrating serum, but on its own, I couldn’t use it for longer than a few days at a stretch. Nice, I think in its category but more targeted at people with oily skins 🙂
I think most people are attracted to it because of its reasonable price. I was too, but too bad it didn’t fare well for my skin. Meh. Hehe
I tried the Ginzing eye cream and thought it was kinda meh. I do like Origins cleansers, the few that I’ve tried anyway, but I have yet to try their moisturizers. The Make A Difference Plus+ sounds good… and oh, I got the ANR2 serum for my birthday! So happy now 🙂
I haven’t tried their cleaners haha! So we’re even 😉 Happy to know you got the ANR2 and hope it gives you that Wow effect too. Make A Difference Plus+ is good stuff! I like it anyway. Really rejuvenates my skin so it’s my to-go day moisturiser for now 🙂
Orange-scented products? Ahem. ME! ME! 😛
I love this the GinZing. When I first saw it and for a while, I didn’t bother to try it out because I thought it would smell of ginseng (a scent which I absolutely cannot stand). Then I saw reviews on Youtube about how delicious it smelled of oranges and I knew I had to at least take a whiff. Snapped it up immediately. It’s a decent moisturiser during the day but I wouldn’t say it’s the best there is out there. You know me, I’m just in it for the smell 😉
Haha oh ya I remember you liked this! Unlike you, I do like the smell of ginseng so I did hope it smelled of that, but orange is ok too. Good for perking up the senses in the morning 😉
Have not tried this although I do have a sample of the eye cream. The only other Origins product I am using is the Active Charcoal Mask and it has worked well so far.
I’ve heard that’s supposed to be quite good!
Origins has just landed in Mexico, so this looks promising. Do you think it’s enough hydration for a dehydrated combination skin?
I have something with smell in creams, they can be perfect or make me use it for obligation.
Hmm… I don’t think it’d be enough for dehydrated skin to be honest. Do see if you can get a sample before you buy. For dehydrated skin (like mine) I think the Make A Difference Plus+ works better to keep things balanced and to keep skin looking better 🙂
I’ve been curious about this but after your review, not so much. I like their Drink Up Intensive Overnight Mask. Makes my skin look fab in the morning!
Ooh I was told that one is fab! I haven’t tried it though and an Overnight Mask sounds like a good idea – treat skin while it sleeps!
Oily skin check. Orange scent check. Price tag check. Currently looking for another moisturizer check. I think I have a sample sachet for this too. The caffeine boost sounds intriguing. I’ll give it a try. Thank you for this review and the more alluring Nespresso coffee machine! Can’t take eyes off it.
Hahaha unintentionally distracting with the Nespresso machine 😀 Best purchase i’ve made in 2013! 😀
I’ve been looking for a lightweight moisturizer for hot weather use (let’s face it, in SE Asia, hot weather is like 80% of the time). Maybe this one would work better than Clinique’s (which causes my foundation to pill up on me).
Mmm yes it is hot here 80% of the time. Or maybe even 90% *fans self* Thank God for air-conditioning! If you find the Clinique one a little sticky (some people do) then this might fit your skin better. Best to see if you can snag a sample, really 😉
Heyy! I see Nespresso pods there haha! You got one-yay! I love mine. 🙂
You’re getting me curious about Origins lady! The only stuff I’ve tried and do like is the Dr. Weil Mushroom products, especially the redness relief mask. So many skincare products, so little time!
Yes! I finally caved and got a Nespresso machine and I love it! Can’t imagine what drinking coffee was like before it haha! Unlike you, I haven’t tried the Dr. Weil mushroom products! I know they are really popular though. But you’re right. So many products, just one face! Gah!
Hi Paris, I need your advice, do u use Make A Difference Plus as moisturiser at night time as well? Or wat would u recommend for night? Thanks!
Hey Junni, I was using it day and night for a while. I was having very dry and dehydrated skin and it helped rebalance my skin and made it look so much better! I now only use it in the day because I’m using a heavier moisturiser at night. But if you don’t have very dehydrated skin, then you can use it day and night. In the day, I use a little less than I would at night (especially if you sleep in an air-conditioned room) Hope this helps!
Hi Paris!
I was searching thru your blog for your take on Estée Lauder ANS and Kiehl’s MRC. Both seems to address my skin but since I only have budget for 1 , I wanted to check in if you could advise me which works better for my skin? I have combi skin, oily tzone n dry cheeks. Recently, i had some hormonal chin breakup. Coupled with lack of sleep and travelling and haze made my skin flare up, my chin will show signs of drying up and cracking thru makeup! It’s getting under control now, and I’m thinking of adding a serum to my usually sensitive and dehydrated skin which is most of time clear but occadionally will flare up (red spots) when irritated. Look forward to hearing your thoughts! 🙂
Hi ST, I think both are awesome products and work well. They even work marvellously together! If you just have the budget for one, I might say MRC because it goes further. However, based on what you have described, I’m going to suggest that you try the new ANR instead. I believe you can get samples of them, and this new formula is quite impressive. My skin looks and feels better and some readers even mentioned that it helped their skin heal more quickly. It sounds like it might help you especially since you mentioned having lack of sleep, which this new ANR can help address 😉 See if you can get a sample of either or both, and see which you like better 🙂
Thanks PB for your take! Do I spread this ANR on my palm too ( same method as kiehl’s)? When you say MRC goes further, do you mean the consumption of bottle or the effects last longer? BTW, how long would a bottle of ANR last you if you use nightly?
Yes I just pump a dropper into my palm then Spread on my face. The MRC lasts longer because you use less. Usually 2-3 drops because it’s an oil so a bottle can last close to 9 months even. As for ANR a 50ml bottle can last me about 3 months plus. However I am quite generous with my use as I use a full dropper. Some people use half.
Thanks PB, I managed to get satchels of ANS, am using now nightly. I am getting the MRC in states in 2 days time and will use the combi you recommended! Lets see if I should get ANS too if it works for me, hopefully they have it at DFS in San Fran by end of my week trip. I so hate it when my skin acts up during travelling 🙁
I’m sure it’s available in DFS, I saw the new version at the airport just last week so I’m sure it’s a worldwide thing 😀
This review couldn’t have arrived at a better time. As you might already know, I’m currently on a skincare-routine overhaul. Yeah…the skin is acting up again. Everything I throw on it is making it either oily or breaking out. I suspect it’s my moisturizers. So this might be a good candidate. Though I’m not particularly fond of skincare products in jar packaging. I’m difficult that way. But! I’d make an exception if that product is really, really good and is working for me (eg. Estee ANR Eye). 😉
I’ve tried the GinZing eye cream before, and find it kind of meh… Did nothing for me.
Hmm… maybe it’s the weather where you are too! Transitioning from winter to summer can wreak havoc on the skin 🙂 This sounds like it might fit your bill but see if you can grab a sample somewhere before you actually get a bottle. It’s funny about GinZing eye cream. I remember it was very popular but everyone here has said it’s meh!
Eh! I didn’t know it has caffeine too! I thought also that it contains citrus family, because of the orange tub and the -Zing. Jamie Oliver loves to use this word when he uses lime or lemon to “make things zingy”.
On a rather different topic, is Nespresso available in Malaysia? It’s hard to find here. Even if it’s available, the merciless sellers raise the price up way up high. 🙁
See, you’re smarter than I am re: zing! LOL! All I thought was ginseng! Nespresso is available here but there’s no store. I saw them selling the machines in Ben’s at Publika but it’s really pricey. I got mine from Singapore at a really good sale price with vouchers to buy pods or accessories and discounts etc. Too good to pass up! But we can order the pods online here so that’s a good thing 🙂
Oh my boss also told me to get from Singapore (at ion??)!! Will have to search if they have online store. Thanks for the info! 🙂
Yup, there’s a store at Ion and at Ngee Ann City I think. I went to the Ion one. Also Harvey Norman in Singapore does it. I got mine there on sale with very good vouchers etc 😀
I have combination skin that’s very acne phone. Got fed up with acne moisturizers. Only thing that worked was Tretenoin A but I could not deal with the inflamed face when I used it. Finally swapped everything out for a simple moisturizer. Someone recommended GinZing. Smells amazing. And after several months I noticed a huge difference in my skin. I honestly just wanted something that would hydrate and not cause problems. But it actually improved my skin. Maybe because I stopped other stuff but at the end of the day it does the job. Works great as a primer for days I wear foundation and I don’t have break outs from foundation. Buying an actual primer never made sense to me and just made my skin itchy. Overall great every day product 🙂