A Day & Night Guide to Skincare

Posted on 11/16/2021 Last updated on 01/06/2022

Skincare is an important aspect that most of us overlook when moving to a new country. Between finding an apartment, adjusting to a new job and worrying about the language barrier, skincare tends to be one of the things we think about the least.

Why? Because it usually tends to get buried under all the anxiousness and excitement we feel when working or living abroad for the first time. It may not be true to all, but most of us are guilty of this. Especially these days when maskne can be a real problem, taking care of our skin is more important than ever.

So here is perhaps one of the best guides you’ll need around Japanese skin care for both day and night. You’ve seen our summertime guide for mens’ products; this one covers products sold to women, although some can also be used be all.

2 years! That’s how much times I spent in building, understanding and trying different skincare routines using only Japanese products before I finally found the best ones that works for my non-Japanese skin. One of the most difficult parts for me was looking for a toner. I have a skin type that can be both oily and sensitive. Putting on even one wrong product tends to create havoc for my skin and causing a breakout.

Now, after using tons of both popular and lesser-known brands, here’s my ideal Japanese skincare routine. It does wonders for my skin, and will hopefully do the same for yours.

Perfect Whip and All Clear Oil (Day and Night)

Double cleansing has never been this easy with the combination of an oil-based cleanser and a foamy cleanser, both by Senka. First, remove all of your cosmetics by using All Clear Oil. It’s a lightweight, deep cleansing oil that helps rid you of all dirt and tough-to-remove cosmetics such as eyeliner. Its formula includes naturally-derived silk cocoon essence, hyaluronic acid and rice bran oil, which is famous for clearing the pores.

Next, use Perfect Whip for further deep cleansing. Perfect Whip itself has consistently been dubbed as one of the best foam cleansers in Japan. Its formula leaves your skin fresh without drying, which is perfect for Japan’s temperamental weather. No wonder it has a big cult following here! I personally only use Perfect Whip in the morning and night since I wear make-up whenever I go to work.

Kikimasamume Japanese Sake Lotion (Day)

This Sake-based toner/lotion is suitable for all skin types, is alcohol-free and has a slightly acidic formula that helps the skin retain its moisture. It helps to hydrate, brighten and most especially it’s a lightweight formula doesn’t leave your face with a heavy or sticky feel.

What I love most about this is it can be used both by men and women. Aside from being a toner, this can also be used all over your body, especially during winter when the weather may make your skin dry.

Shiseido Anissa Perfect UV Sunscreen (Day and Night)

This is my holy grail when it comes to sunscreens. It has the perfect coverage against both UVB and UVA and boasts of an SPF50+. It contains silicones and antioxidants such as Vitamin E & Camellia Sinensis.

Although I have oily skin, this sunscreen is quickly absorbed and doesn’t leave any white casts, unlike the other brands I’ve tried before. It also works well with the other cosmetics I use on my skin afterwards.

It is also a combination of both physical and chemical sunscreens, which works better for my skin. I have tried chemical-based sunscreens before, but they were too strong. This one hits that “just right” spot!

Labo-Labo Super Keana Lotion (Night)

After deep-cleansing at night, I usually change my toner to this one: Labo Labo Super Keana Lotion. It’s a spectacular product if you are a beginner in using AHA-based toners, and it’s very gentle for everyday use. AHA helps you get a faster skin turn-over and pore minimization.

I was introduced to this product by one of my favorite Asian beauty Japanese YouTubers. After using it once, I never went back.

VITACOS 20 Power C Serum

When it comes to Vitamin C Serums, VITACOS20 is what I use and recommend the most. It contains moisturizers and high-penetrating Vitamin C. This helps your skin retain its moisture, especially during winter.

As with Vitamin C serums, this also helps prevent wrinkles. It’s great for areas where hyperpigmentation occurs. Personally, I don’t use it often during summer due to its thick feeling. What I like most about it is that is cruelty-free (not tested on animals; always a good point to consider when choosing beauty products.)

Note that all the products listed above are only ‘personal’ recommendations. Each product may react differently due to different skin types or skin combinations. It is still recommended to test a product first before continued use, and to immediately stop from using it when it causes adverse effect on your skin. Good luck, be daring, and hopefully you’ll look and feel your best!

Photo Credits:

Top photo: Engin_Akyurt on Pixabay (follow them on Instagram!)

All additional images for this article were provided by Zygel Doll Jamelano.