Calming Moisture Repair Balm
Calming Moisture Repair Balm
Product Description
A concentrated repair balm formulated by a Korean Traditional Medicine clinic to calm, soothe, and deeply hydrate sensitive and irritated skin. Enriched with Centella Asiatica, 5 types of Hyaluronic Acid, Panthenol, and skin-strengthening peptides for lasting barrier repair.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Traditional Medicine Formula
Developed by Pyunkang Korean Medicine Hospital with 50+ years of expertise in treating atopic and sensitive skin conditions.
5x Hyaluronic Acid Complex
Five different molecular weights of hyaluronic acid provide multi-depth hydration from surface to deeper skin layers.
Dual Peptide Technology
Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 and Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5 strengthen skin barrier and provide anti-aging benefits.
Barrier Repair Focus
Squalane, Shea Butter, and Panthenol work together to repair damaged skin barrier and prevent moisture loss.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
Free from retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, and chemical sunscreens. All ingredients are pregnancy-compatible.
Contains fatty acids (oleic, stearic, myristic), sunflower oil, shea butter, and sorbitan olivate that may feed malassezia yeast.
Some ingredients like myristic acid (rating 3) and ethylhexyl palmitate (rating 2-4) may clog pores for acne-prone skin.
Zero irritation tested, fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and all ingredients are EWG green grade for safety.
Perfect for "rest days" when using actives, or as a soothing layer to minimize retinol irritation.
Rich balm texture is ideal for evening use. For daytime, use sparingly or on targeted dry areas only.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
πΏ Centella Asiatica Extract Proven
Also known as Cica or Tiger Grass, this traditional medicinal plant is renowned for its powerful soothing and wound-healing properties. Contains active compounds including madecassoside, asiaticoside, madecassic acid, and asiatic acid.
- Research: Studies show Centella stimulates collagen synthesis and promotes wound healing
- Benefit: Anti-inflammatory, reduces redness, strengthens skin barrier
- Safety: Well-tolerated by all skin types including sensitive
π§ 5x Hyaluronic Acid Complex Proven
A sophisticated blend of five different forms: Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate (Super HA), Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, and Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer.
- Mechanism: Different molecular weights penetrate to various skin depths
- Capacity: Can hold up to 1000x its weight in water
- Crosspolymer: Provides 5x more water-binding than regular HA
β¨ Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) High Proven
A powerful humectant and skin-healing ingredient that penetrates deep into skin layers. Converts to Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) when absorbed.
- Hydration: Attracts and binds moisture like hyaluronic acid
- Healing: Promotes fibroblast proliferation for wound repair
- Protection: Reduces irritation from other ingredients in formulas
𧬠Peptide Complex Promising
Contains two anti-aging peptides: Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 (Argireline) and Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5 (Syn-Coll) for skin strengthening benefits.
- Argireline: Studies show 17% wrinkle reduction in 15 days at 10% concentration
- Syn-Coll: Clinical studies show improved firmness and texture in 4 weeks
- Note: Present in smaller amounts than standalone peptide serums
π« Squalane 3rd Position Proven
A stable, saturated hydrocarbon that mimics the skin's natural sebum. Provides exceptional moisturization without heaviness or greasiness.
- Compatibility: Excellent for all skin types including acne-prone
- Function: Emollient that prevents transepidermal water loss (TEWL)
- Comedogenicity: Rating of 1 - very unlikely to clog pores
π Tea Tree Leaf Extract Promising
Known for antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Used here as an extract (gentler than essential oil) for soothing benefits without irritation.
- Properties: Antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, purifying
- Benefit: Helps control excess sebum and calm breakouts
49 ingredients
Water, Propanediol, Squalane, Cetearyl Alcohol, Glycerin, Panthenol, Betaine, Trehalose, Lonicera Japonica (Honeysuckle) Flower Extract, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Extract, Camellia Japonica Flower Extract, Salvia Officinalis (Sage) Leaf Extract, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Centella Asiatica Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5, Polyglyceryl-2 Stearate, Glyceryl Stearate, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Cetearyl Glucoside, Stearyl Alcohol, Sorbitan Olivate, Stearic Acid, Arachidic Acid, Myristic Acid, Oleic Acid, Palmitic Acid, Hydrogenated Polydecene, Sodium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Trideceth-10, Dipropylene Glycol, Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Ethylhexylglycerin, Tocopherol, Butylene Glycol, Caprylyl Glycol, Hydroxyacetophenone, Pentylene Glycol, Disodium EDTA, 1,2-Hexanediol
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Use as the final step to seal in all previous products, or as a substitute for your regular moisturizer. Best used at night for intensive repair.
π How to Use
Complete Your Routine
Apply after cleansing, toning, and any serums or essences. The balm works best as an occlusive final layer.
Scoop a Small Amount
Use a clean spatula or fingertip to take a pea-sized amount. A little goes a long way with this concentrated formula.
Warm Between Palms
Rub the balm between your palms to warm it up. This helps it melt and spread more easily across the skin.
Gently Press Into Skin
Press and pat the balm into your face rather than rubbing. This ensures better absorption and avoids tugging delicate skin.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- Your skin is sensitive, reactive, or easily irritated
- You have dry patches or dehydrated skin
- You're recovering from retinol use or chemical peels
- Your skin barrier is damaged or compromised
- You want a "rest day" moisturizer from active ingredients
- You need intensive overnight hydration
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need safe skincare
β Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- Your skin is very oily and congestion-prone
- You prefer lightweight, fast-absorbing textures
- You need a daytime moisturizer under makeup
- You're sensitive to fatty acids or plant oils
- You want a larger size for better value
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Rich, nourishing formula provides intensive hydration. Perfect for combating winter dryness and flaky patches.
Fragrance-free, zero irritation tested formula. Cica and panthenol actively soothe reactive skin.
Best used at night or on dry areas only. May be too rich for T-zone during daytime use.
Rich texture may feel heavy. Use sparingly as night treatment only, or on targeted dry areas.
Contains some comedogenic ingredients. Patch test first. Not recommended for fungal acne sufferers.
Peptides support collagen, while rich texture combats age-related dryness. Great overnight treatment.
π Results Timeline
Instant Comfort & Softness
Skin feels immediately soothed, soft, and protected with a dewy, healthy glow. Dry patches appear visibly reduced.
95% noticedReduced Redness & Irritation
Calming ingredients begin working to reduce visible redness and calm reactive skin. Morning skin feels plumper.
85% noticedBarrier Repair & Hydration Boost
Damaged skin barrier shows improvement. Dry patches and flakiness significantly reduced. Skin retains moisture better.
80% noticedHealthier, More Resilient Skin
Skin appears healthier and more resilient overall. Less reactive to environmental stressors. Improved texture and tone.
75% noticedβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Exceptionally soothing for irritated, reactive skin
- Fragrance-free and gentle for sensitive skin
- Rich texture that melts into skin nicely
- Effective at sealing in moisture overnight
- Great "rest day" cream during retinol use
- Quality ingredients backed by traditional medicine
- Little product needed per application
- Zero irritation tested and EWG green rated
β Criticized
- Small 30ml jar doesn't last long
- Too heavy/rich for oily skin types
- Not suitable for fungal acne sufferers
- Jar packaging less hygienic than pump
- Takes time to fully absorb
- May be too rich for summer or daytime use
- Some users report breakouts (comedogenic ingredients)
- Plastic jar feels less premium
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
K-beauty alternative with 10% Panthenol and Centella. Lighter texture, more affordable per ml (50ml). Also fragrance-free and great for sensitive skin.
100ml for less than this 30ml balm. High Centella concentration. Lighter gel-cream texture better suited for oily skin. Fragrance-free.
Spot treatment focus with 70% Centella water. Lighter texture, smaller 30ml size. Better for targeting specific irritated areas rather than all-over use.
French pharmacy favorite. 40ml tube. Contains 5% Panthenol and Madecassoside. Thicker, more occlusive texture. Contains dimethicone (silicone).
π Comparison with Competitors
Pyunkang Yul Calming Moisture Repair Balm
~$18La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5+
~$15PURITO B5 Panthenol Re-Barrier Cream
~$16Avène Cicalfate+ Restorative Cream
~$30π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening. Use clean hands or spatula to prevent contamination.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration required.
Clear plastic jar with screw-top lid. Use a clean spatula for hygienic dispensing.
Yes - 30ml is under 100ml TSA liquid limit. Compact size fits easily in travel bags.
β Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! This balm is safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. All ingredients are gentle and EWG green-rated. The formula focuses on soothing botanical extracts and hydrating ingredients that are considered safe for expectant and nursing mothers.
No, this product is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients that can feed malassezia yeast, including: oleic acid, stearic acid, myristic acid, arachidic acid, sunflower seed oil, shea butter, and sorbitan olivate. If you have fungal acne, look for alternatives like Pyunkang Yul's Calming Deep Moisture Toner which is fungal acne safe.
Yes! This balm is actually ideal for use alongside actives. Many users apply it on "rest days" when not using retinol or acids to help skin recover. It can also be used as a buffer over retinol to minimize irritation, or as a soothing step after acid exfoliation. The calming ingredients help counteract potential irritation from active ingredients.
This balm is best suited for dry, sensitive, and mature skin types. It's excellent for anyone with a damaged skin barrier, post-procedure skin, or those experiencing irritation from actives. Combination skin can use it at night only. Oily and acne-prone skin types may find it too heavy and should consider lighter alternatives.
Immediate results include softness and comfort. Within 1-3 days, you should notice reduced redness and irritation. After 1-2 weeks of consistent use, expect improved barrier function and better moisture retention. Full barrier repair benefits typically show after 4+ weeks of regular use.
Apply as the last step of your skincare routine, after all water-based and oil-based products. It works as an occlusive layer to seal everything in. Order: Cleanser β Toner β Essence β Serum β Moisturizer β This Balm. You can also use it as a substitute for your regular moisturizer.
This balm has a moderate comedogenic rating of 2-3/5. It contains some potentially pore-clogging ingredients like myristic acid (rating 3), ethylhexyl palmitate (rating 2-4), and stearic acid (rating 2-3). If you're acne-prone, patch test first and consider using only at night or on targeted dry areas rather than all-over application.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Despite the small 30ml size, the concentrated formula means you need very little per application β most users report the jar lasting 2-3 months with daily use. Store in a cool, dry place and use clean hands or a spatula to extend shelf life.
Verdict: The Pyunkang Yul Calming Moisture Repair Balm is an excellent choice for anyone with dry, sensitive, or irritated skin seeking intensive overnight repair. Backed by 50 years of Traditional Korean Medicine expertise, its thoughtful formula combines proven soothing ingredients like Centella Asiatica and Panthenol with advanced hydrators and peptides. While the small jar size and moderate comedogenic potential are drawbacks, the fragrance-free, zero-irritation tested formula delivers real results for barrier repair. Not suitable for fungal acne or very oily skin, but a standout option for those who need serious soothing and hydration.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skinβs own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging Β«promisesΒ» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 5 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 6 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Squalane
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Hair Conditioning, Refatting
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Cetearyl Alcohol
Emulsion Stabilising, Opacifying, Foam Boosting, Viscosity Increasingagent - Aqueous, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emollient, Emulsifying, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 1 |
Panthenol
Skin Conditioning, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
|