Aliza asks (via Facebook)…Could you analyze the “hope in a jar” moisturizer line from Philosophy, and compare it to drugstore brands? I want to know if i’ll really be getting my moneys worth before i decide to buy it.
The Left Brain responds:
There is nothing in the “Hope in a Jar” moisturizer that would warrant spending $28-$38 for a 2oz jar. With one notable exception it uses standard moisturizing ingredients.
Hope In A Jar Ingredients
Water, Lauryl Lactate, Behenic Acid, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Glycerin, Glyceryl Stearate SE, Behenyl Alcohol, Cyclomethicone, Pentaerythritol Tetra Caprate/Caprylate, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Benzyl Alcohol, Retinyl Acetate (Vitamin A), Stearic Acid, Panthenol, Beta Glucan (Oat Flour), Arginine HCl, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil (lavandula angustifolia), Xanthan Gum.
The second ingredient, Lauryl Lactate, helps form the emulsion and, at the right pH, can act as a mild alpha hydroxy acid. So, theoretically, not only do you get moisturization but you can also get some exfoliation. This ingredient is not typically used in high concentrations in most drug store brands which means that this Philosophy formula is different. However, as the Cosmetic Cop points out, the pH of this product is too high for the lauryl lactate to function as an exfolliant.
The Beauty Brains bottom line
If you’re just looking for moisturization, Better would be to try out something from Olay or Jergens or Neutrogena. They’ll work just as well and cost a lot less. If you want to exfoliate there are cheaper products that will do a better job. Having said that, if cost and effectiveness are not your primary concern you may find it an enjoyable experience to use Hope in a Jar. Just don’t expect any miracles.
Popularity: unranked [?]
{ 9 comments… read them below or add one }
I haven’t tried Hope In A Jar in like 10 years but I remember it had the worst scent ever and I had to give up on it. I wonder if it smells the same…
It really pays to read the ingredients list. Often times, you’ll find a product with similar ingredients for a cheaper price.
I have it (came with my clarisonic) and I think it’s alright. But, it smells AWFUL. Almost rancid. I wonder what ingredient causes this smell.. Anyone know?
You have shown again that it pays to be a smart consumer, and not just be tricked by miraculous labels! Check out the DIY section of our site http://www.fitandfabliving.com/index.php/do-it-yourself.html for more great tips about finding and making affordable products!
I do not recall Hope in a Jar having a bad smell. It was just a really gentle moisturizer.
When I use it, it is purely just cause of the smell.
Love that (weird) smell.
Hope in a Jar?
Maybe they should rename it to “Hype in a Jar”
Har.
I have tried all the “drug store” brands and finally years later found Hope in a Jar and I love it! I have sensitive skin that is easily irritated as well prone to break outs. I love Hope in a Jar and highly suggest it! It lasts for months, as you only need a tiny dap to cover your entire face and neck. I live in a humid climate, yet experience bouts of dry skin, and this works wonders without leaving my skin feeling greasy! And I have never noticed a odd scent. Its important to note that Hope in a Jar comes in a couple different formulas (dry skin, combo and all skin types). New users, see if yo ucan get a sample at the store, then order online or through QVC, as it costs less. Thank you
Hope in a Jar did nothing for me at all, except make me normally perfectly clear skin bumpy and prone to breakouts. I think it’s one of those products that, when it works for you, by all means stick with it, but it’s not even close to be a universally useable formula.