Japanese cosmetics go that one step further....I mean they go deep! After being totally baffled walking around in circles in the makeup shops trying to find an equivalent for my Western face wash, I have been forced to step outside my safe zone and try all kinds. Now I have figured out that Japanese skin care regime includes many more steps than what I have previously been used to.
For a start there are two steps to cleansing. Not 1 but 2! They take skin cleaning to a whole new level but since living here this does not surprise me as the word 'spotless' takes on a whole new meaning in Japan.
1. First there is a makeup removal cleanse, often with an oil based remover. (More on this part at a later date - this list is pretty lengthy so gotta get on with it)!
2. Then comes a Foaming Cleanser, specifically designed to foam while in your hands before it touches the face. (I have heard that the Perfect Whip is a must have for this step - definitely down on my ever growing list of products to try).
3. Next it's time for the Lotion which is recommended to be soaked onto cotton pads or dry sheet masks to be placed on the skin in a mask-like way. (I'm definitely wondering how much time this will all take so far). Lotions have a watery consistency which hydrate the clean skin.
4. Followed by Essence, to encourage clearer brighter skin. (I am very keen to re-explore SK-II Facial Treatment Essence - it was amazing 20 years ago when I first tried it and now I have much more need for brighter skin).
5. Then the Serum loaded with active ingredients gets applied.
Wait.....it hasn't stopped yet.....
6. Next is the Eye Cream, specifically for the sensitive eye contour area.
7. Then comes the cream or 'Emulsion' which is the moisturising step.
8. Finally followed by the ever important UV cream and Primer which I have tried skipping but I have noticed a small patch of sun damage from a few weeks unprotected last summer (the sun here is serious)!
All to say, that if I ever get the kids to school on time as well as apply all this load to my face, then I am on super mum roll!