
Let’s face it, Milky toners are having a moment.
While they may be a buzzword in the western skincare market right now, partly thanks to Miss Hailey Bieber, the silky, hydrating cousin of watery toners have been a much loved skincare staple in Asian markets for many years.
Not to be confused with regular toners, which have a thinner, more water-like consistency and generally work to restore the skins pH levels, milky toners are packed with moisturising and soothing ingredients with a focus on hydration, barrier health and restoration.
If you’ve followed me for a while now you’d know I have a deep affinity towards hydrating toners and essences. Bar sunscreen, they’re my desert island product.
I’ve been using the TBH Rebound Skin Milk Cica Activated Toner since it launched, and it has quickly made its way up the hierarchy to be crowned as one of my most reached for products - ever.
Naturally, whenever anything new launches these days, the internet is quick to identify a dupe when they see it. ‘They copied Hailey Bieber’ a collective side of the internet screamed.
But did they?!
A dupe by definition is a duplicate or copy.
These products may look similar at first glance, but this is anything but a dupe.
So my fellow skincare enthusiasts, let’s grab our magnifying glasses and dive deep into the delightful world of milky toners to see just how similar these two are.
Starting with the basics, both products have one thing in common that we can all appreciate: water! Yep, they both kick off their ingredient lists with aqua, the ultimate skincare solvent. It’s like the friendly neighborhood bouncer that lets all the good stuff in. And guess what? They both also sprinkle in some glycerin, the magical humectant that’s basically your skin's equivalent of a hydration party crasher - drawing moisture in and keeping the good times flowing!
As if that weren't enough, they get a bonus point for including ceramides—those nifty little molecules that repair your skin barrier and retain moisture, making your skin feel like a soft pillow. There’s also the addition of Tocopheryl Acetate, aka Vitamin E, which swoops in like a superhero, protecting your skin from the villainous effects of environmental damage.
Can I get a round of applause for teamwork?
Same same so far, right? But not all is as it seems!
So what exactly sets these two highly loved products apart?
Rhode Glazing Milk is the hydration aficionado of the duo. It’s all about that moisture, baby! With a medley of hyaluronic acids and skin-conditioning champions like Beta-Glucan and Copper Gluconate, it’s basically the skincare equivalent of a refreshing splash of water on a scorching hot day. Your skin will practically throw a parade in its honor!
Meanwhile, TBH Rebound Skin Milk is the herbal tea-drinking, zen-master cousin who shows up with soothing botanical extracts. With ingredients like Centella Asiatica and Licorice Root, it’s here to not only hydrate, but also calm your skin.
(Hello, rosacea sufferers!)
Madecassoside, derived from Centella, goes into the ring, fighting for skin repair while throwing a chill party for irritated skin. It’s like a spa day in a bottle, perfect for those times when your skin needs a hug!
When it comes to emollients, Rhode is full of Coconut Alkanes and a range of fatty acids that turn your skin into a silky dream. TBH, on the other hand, comes equipped with Behenic Acid and other structural ingredients that keep your skin conditioned and smooth, focusing on serious business like skin integrity.
So yes, they may be similar, in a similar category, but your personal skincare concerns are going to be what guides you on which to choose.
Rhode Glazing Milk is your skin's hydration hero! If you're feeling parched, this product is like a refreshing dip in a cool pool on a hot summer day. It’s packed with skin-loving ingredients that will quench your skin’s thirst, leaving it plump, radiant. Perfect for anyone battling dryness or looking to add a splash of moisture to their routine!
In contrast, TBH Rebound Skin Milk is the zen master of skincare. If you’re someone that suffers from rosacea, eczema, or inflammation, It's your go-to for those moments when your skin's throwing a tantrum. This calming concoction, infused with soothing botanical extracts is the herbal tea your stressed-out skin has been longing for. Think of it as a warm hug for your complexion, perfect for restoring balance and integrity.
Phew! That was a lot to take in!
But I hope this has been helpful for you to navigate.
There is a place for both in the skincare world! And let’s be honest, TBH is significantly easier to get your hands on. (And did I mention much more bank account friendly?!)
Now let’s all hold hands and collectively say together ‘not everything is a dupe’.
Often times products will appear similar, but are often unique in their formulations and mode of actions!
Cheers to hydrated, happy skin! 🥳
Victoria x