My mother is Japanese, so we usually try to make a trip there at least once every other year to visit family. I absolutely love Japan, and feel so privileged that I get to experience the culture and be bilingual. My family lives in the country side of Japan, but we always make sure to spend a few days in Tokyo first. Whenever we go, the first stop we always make is to a drug store to stock up on some Japanese beauty products. In Japan they’re HUGE on skin care, so it’s easy to walk into any drug store or convenient store and find some amazing products. I’m always impressed by their cute packaging and innovative ideas, like that soap that went viral for dispensing in the shape of a flower.
I love trying new products, but also know which tried and true products I purchase over and over again. Below are my holy grail Japanese skin care products that I am never without.
- Shisedo Perfect cleansing oil
There are many cleaning oils out there, but this one is my personal favorite. It takes off even the most stubborn waterproof mascara, but doesn’t leave an oily residue on your skin like some oil cleansers do. First use it with dry hands and gently rub it into your dry skin. Once your make up starts to break down, add a little water to your hands, and gently run again. This will get all your make up off every time! I only use 2 pumps for my entire face, so it will last you a long time.
- SK-II Facial treatment essence
This is by far the most expensive skin care product I own, but it’s worth every pretty. You only need a few drops, and gently press it into your skin after cleansing. It makes your skin glow like no other product, and light yet hydrating. I always wait and get mine in a value set (it usually comes with a mini cleanser and mini lotion) so you get more for your money. It is also slightly cheaper in Japan, but you can get it during a Sephora sale!
- Biore oil free cotton make up removing sheets
These are by far the best make up removing wipes I have ever tried. Yes, they sell Biore make up wipes in the US but they are NOT the same thing. They are super soft and are oil free, and are great for lazy days when you just want to get your make up off fast. It removes everything from foundation to water proof mascara with ease. They are also great for people with eyelash extensions since they’re oil free and gentle! They come in a plastic packaging that seals nicely, and the best part is you can by refills to insert inside! I stock up on these every time I’m in Japan since I never know when I’ll be back.
- Kao Megurism heating eye mask
I grabbed these when I was in Japan at a convenient store, and was so impressed I went back and got a few more the next day. Each eye mask is individually wrapped, so it’s easy to travel with. After you put it on it slowly starts to heat up and help you relax. They come in relaxing scents like lavender, rose, chamomile, or just unscented. It’s great for unwinding after a stressful day, or helping you fall asleep while jet lagged, or when insomnia hits.
- Lululun sheet masks
There is a reason these sheet masks are one of the best sellers in Japan. They’re hydrating, additive and chemical fragrance free, and gentle enough for every day use. The sheet masks come in larger packs (I got a pack of 36), so it’s a great value for the price!
I got most of my products from Japan when I go, but you can find them on Amazon, yesstyle.com, or even sometime your local Japanese grocery store. I have been able to find the Shisedo oil at TJ Maxx, Sephora also carries Shisedo and SKII.
Shades and Stripes 
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