2022’s Summer Most Popular Japanese Cosmetics
Hi, I’m Lizzie from London and I’ve lived in Japan for 9 years now. I’m a new mummy but not new to all of the wonderful beauty products Japan has to offer. I recently went to Zak Zakka’s partner chemist (a bit like Boots or Superdrug back home) to get the low down on the latest Japanese cosmetics from the expert beauty supervisor. Want to know what are the most popular cosmetics at the moment? Then take a gander!
Biore UV Aqua Rich Aqua Protect Lotion Water Layer Pack UV SPF50 + PA ++++ 70ml
Biore is on of the biggest names when it comes to cosmetics, and honestly one of the best! This is the newest sunscreen from Biore; a beautiful, smooth lotion that feels like you aren’t wearing anything with it’s water-like texture and boasts no stickiness. It’s SPF50+ and broad spectrum (PA++++) so it’s got you covered all summer, baby! Well… all year round actually as sun protection is vital… and at a reasonable price it’s easy to keep yourself safe from those pesky UV Rays, without breaking the bank. It’s super waterproof and filled with deliciously moisturizing ingredients to keep your skin glowing.
Skin Aqua Tone Up UV Essence SPF 50+ PA++++ - Mint Green - 80g
I’m obsessed with this sunscreen. Not only is it SPF50+ but it also leaves your skin gleaming! It has a green colour corrector so those with redness will appreciate this magic but it also has a pearl formula to give you that gorgeous glow. It works well as a primer, giving you that all important sun protection too. It’s mineral oil, paraben and alcohol free, so good for those with sensitive skin and gives you a moisture boost with hyaluronic acid and vitamin C!
Skin Aqua NEXTA Shield Seram UV Essence SPF50 + PA ++ + + - 70g
Trust Japan to come up with a sunscreen that offers full sun protection AND a luxurious serum that’s also amazingly waterproof. Although this one is a bit pricier compared to the other sunscreens I tried, I can see why! This sunscreen packs a potent punch of serum, SPF50+, brightening properties and blemish prevention. It gets rid of tired, dull looking skin with 8 different beauty components. Oh, and it’s environmentally friendly too! It doesn’t use oxybenzone which is the main culprit of coral bleaching.
Allie Beauty Gel UV EX SPF50 + PA ++ ++ - 90g
So the beauty supervisor was the most excited about this sunscreen as this was her favourite. She explained how it can be used as foundation even though it doesn’t have any colour. It applies like a moisturizing lotion and leaves your skin looking so clear and bright, I can see why it’s her favourite. Allie is very environmentally and beach friendly focused with its formulas and packaging. It’s water and friction proof, gives you a whopping SPF50+ AND it’s good bang for your buck.
KISS ME Mommy UV Mild Gel N - 100g
I wasn’t new to this bad boy! It’s the most popular sunscreen for toddlers and it’s so good, I even use it on my own little one. It’s a mild gel formula that rubs onto the skin so effortlessly… all you parents know the struggle with toddlers and sunscreen, so you need something that applies STAT. This is your saving grace. It’s hypoallergenic with a natural acidic formula, gentle on your precious one’s skin with no harsh ingredients; in fact, it’s made with 90% food ingredients.
Carte HD Highly Moisture Lotion - 150ml
Carte HD Highly Moisture Emulsion - 120ml
Both of these hypoallergenic lotion and emulsions are phenomenal at moisturizing your skin. Even those with dry skin problems will see results quickly as the active ingredient heparin works wonders for water retention within the skin, keeping it youthful and moisturized. This product is absolutely recommended for people with sensitive or rough skin.
Softymo Speedy Cleansing Oil 230ml
So I use the original Softymo Deep Cleansing Oil which never fails me… but the beauty supervisor said that this version was even more popular. Why? Because it works in double the time! It removes all of your makeup and dirt, even stubborn waterproof mascara and washes it all away, leaving you with bouncy-soft skin as it contains 5 decadent organic oils. It can be used with dry or wet hands, so can be used in the bath or shower! Talk about speedy cleansing.
Biore Facial Cleansing Gel For Dry Skin - 150g
Biore Facial Cleansing Gel For Oily Skin - 150g
This is another golden product by Biore! Apparently this face wash is just as popular as the infamous Senka Whip Cream. It gets right into the pores to remove all the nasties like keratin plugs and blackheads, leaving you with a fresh and clean complexion. It’s a “massage cleanser” so if you’re feeling a trip to the spa without actually going to the spa (and without the hefty spa price tags) then this is the one for you. It smells great, feels great and comes in two options: for oily skin types and for dry skin types.
I hope that gives a little insight into Japan’s latest and popular cosmetics. Happy shopping!