10 Best Gel Moisturizers in 2023 (Dermatologist-Reviewed)
Gel moisturizers are a particular favorite for people with oily and acne-prone skin because they're lightweight, non-greasy, and quick-absorbing. But they're also suitable for people with different skin types, too, be it dry, sensitive, or combination.
In this list, we've crafted the 10 best gel moisturizers that take into account a variety of skin types and needs. At the top of our list was Clinique's Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel for its suitability for most skin types, lack of irritating ingredients, and lightweight, non-greasy formula. To read more on how to buy the right gel moisturizer for your skin, feel free to browse our handy Buying Guide reviewed by a board certified dermatologist.
Dr. Levy is a board certified dermatologist practicing in NYC and Westport, Connecticut. She has expertise in treating inflammatory skin conditions like acne, rosacea, eczema, and psoriasis. She has an interest in skincare and takes a personalized approach to all of her patients.
mybest US' editing team consists of experienced members who have backgrounds in writing, editing, translation, and more. We are dedicated to researching what makes a product or service the best to users in the US in order to create top-quality articles. From skincare, to kitchen appliances, and to DIY supplies, our mission is to find the best ones for you.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
- Who Should Use a Gel Moisturizer?
- 10Best Gel Moisturizers Ranking
- No. 1: Clinique | Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel
- No. 2: Origins | Ginzing Energy-Boosting Gel Moisturizer
- No. 3: Aveeno | Morning Burst Hydrating Gel Moisturizer
- No. 4: Glow Recipe | Watermelon Glow Pink Juice Moisturizer
- No. 5: Neutrogena | Hydro Boost Water Gel
- 5 more products
- Dr. Levy's Recommended Gel Moisturizer
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What's the difference between gel moisturizers and creams?
- Is gel moisturizer good for oily skin?
- Looking for More Skincare Products?
- Amazon's Best Selling Face Moisturizers
- Buying Guide Reviewed by Board Certified Dermatologist Dr. Lauren Levy
Who Should Use a Gel Moisturizer?
Gel moisturizers have a water-based formula free from oils which makes them lightweight and non-greasy, as well as hydrating and quick absorbing. Their light and non-sticky texture are popular for a variety of reasons.
Gel moisturizers are sought out by those with oily or acne-prone skin as these moisturizers are devoid of pore-clogging ingredients. That being said, they're also great for those with normal, dry, or even sensitive skin, and they can also be used to soothe sunburns. Many like to switch to a gel moisturizer during the summer as they're lighter and can even provide a cooling effect.
Though a gel moisturizer may not always hydrate as well as a cream moisturizer, it provides enough hydration for most skin types. Researchers have found that after 12 weeks of using gel moisturizers, people with dry and dull skin saw an improvement in their skin, noting that their skin seemed more fresh, radiant, and dewy.
How to Choose Gel Moisturizers
Most gel moisturizers are tailored to help combination and oily skin, but a lot of them can suit other skin types, too. Here's how to choose the right gel moisturizer that matches your skin type.
① Look for Ingredients That Benefit Your Skin Type
Take a look at the most popular ingredients used in gel moisturizers and how they may help your particular skin type.
Extra Moisture for Dry Skin
Humectants are water-grabbing ingredients that can draw moisture from the environment or from your skin's lower layers to the top layers of your skin. They help increase your skin's moisture levels and keep it hydrated for a while.
Hyaluronic acid is one of the most popular humectants. It can retain water molecules to deliver long-lasting hydration directly to the skin. Glycerin is a good substitute for hyaluronic acid and can do everything that hyaluronic acid can do for the skin, including nourishing, maintaining water balance, and promoting younger-looking skin.
Aloe vera is another wonderful humectant. It's rich in vitamins A and C, enzymes, and antioxidants, and it's best known as a treatment for sunburn and skin irritation. It helps soothe your skin and reduce inflammation.
In addition, the enzymes in aloe vera help to remove bacteria from your skin. As a result, it helps to reduce redness as well as prevent acne breakouts. If you've got irritated, acne-prone, or sunburned skin, aloe vera is a great ingredient to have in your gel moisturizer.
Hyaluronic acid is a go-to ingredient for improving skin hydration. It can give the skin an immediate plumping effect. As a humectant, however, overuse of hyaluronic acid can result in drying of the skin in the long run since it sucks water out from the top layer of the skin. Therefore, using an occlusive product occasionally can prevent this paradoxical effect.
Antioxidants for Dull or Mature Skin
When exposed to environmental aggressors such as pollution, heat, and UV rays, our skin tends to develop blemishes such as age spots, wrinkles, and fine lines. Those factors can also facilitate the breakdown of the skin's collagen, causing your skin to become saggy.
Look for moisturizers infused with antioxidants to neutralize the effects of those environmental aggressors as well as natural aging. Green tea extract, moringa seed extract, and aloe vera are some antioxidant-rich ingredients that can restore the radiance and elasticity of your skin.
Niacinamide and vitamins C and E are also great antioxidants that can rejuvenate your skin's condition. They not only brighten up your complexion but also contribute to blurring skin blemishes.
If you have rosacea, look for a moisturizer with niacinamide in it. Niacinamide is a great antioxidant that can help with skin redness and inflammation. Use a moisturizer with vitamin C in it to help with hyperpigmentation, sun damage, and fine lines and wrinkles.
Soothing Ingredients for Sensitive or Inflamed Skin
For those with inflamed skin, you'll need ingredients with strong anti-inflammatory properties such as niacinamides, aloe vera and chamomile extract. Specifically, niacinamide can help reduce acne, calm redness, and prevent water loss in the skin. Moreover, it also helps to improve skin texture and minimize pores!
Aloe vera, as mentioned above, can provide your skin with much-needed moisture. At the same time, it's effective in treating skin irritation and rashes. Chamomile extract also has strong calming properties and is used to reduce pain and redness from sunburn.
Sometimes gel moisturizers can be drying or irritating for those with inflamed skin. I recommend more of a rich creamy moisturizer for those with eczema or inflamed skin. Once this condition settles, a gel moisturizer can be used.
Non-Comedogenic Ingredients for Oily or Acne-Prone Skin
The term non-comedogenic isn't FDA-regulated, meaning that there's no one definition for what it means. However, non-comedogenic ingredients are generally accepted to be ones that are less likely to block pores and cause acne.
If you have oily or acne-prone skin, looking out for this term on products will help ensure that the ingredients in your gel moisturizer are not causing further oiliness and acne breakouts. But, note that even if your moisturizer doesn't have the term non-comedogenic on it, it doesn't mean that it's necessarily going to block your pores!
Since it's up to the manufacturers to label their products as non-comedogenic or not, it's helpful to keep in mind some common non-comedogenic and comedogenic ingredients, so you can look out for them yourself.
Some popular non-comedogenic ingredients are glycerin, which is a common and effective hydrating agent; aloe vera, which has wonderful skin-soothing and antibacterial properties; and vitamin C, which is a great anti-irritation humectant.
Contrastively, some comedogenic ingredients to avoid are cocoa butter, coconut oil, linseed oil, and lanolin. Comedogenic ingredients are sometimes ranked into different levels from one to four to indicate how comedogenic they are, with four being the most harmful and one being the least. There are various online sources that provide lists you can check.
② Check for Ingredients That May Cause Irritation
Alcohol, fragrances, mineral oils, parabens, phthalates, and sulfates can cause irritation. In general, these ingredients don't irritate most people, but they can affect those with sensitive and dry skin or those who have had issues with the ingredients in the past.
Some research shows that in the short term, sulfates and mineral oils may cause irritation or cystic acne. In the long term, mineral oils can enlarge pores, and fragrances and alcohol can promote excess sebum production.
Though we don't have conclusive evidence about phthalates and parabens having negative effects on the skin, you may deem it to be better safe than sorry. If you’re not sure what you’ll react to, we recommend doing a patch test first since everyone's skin is different.
If you have rosacea or eczema, some botanical ingredients can cause skin redness or irritation. Essential oils and fragrances can also exacerbate these conditions, so look for products free of these. For sensitive skin, products that have few ingredients are usually best.
③ Choose a Jar or Pump Based on Application Preference
Those who are very hygiene-conscious may prefer to use pumps or tubes as they don't require that you dip your finger into the moisturizer every time. A pump is also easy to use with only one hand, and can be less messy with more liquid-like gels.
On the other hand, those who want to apply a lot of moisturizer at a time may benefit from using jars, as they can easily scoop out the amount they need. Some jar moisturizers will come with their own applicator sticks to prevent bacteria from your fingers from contaminating the product.
10
Best Gel Moisturizers Ranking
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel | | Best Oil-Free, Skin-Strengthening Gel Moisturizer | |
2 | Origins Ginzing Energy-Boosting Gel Moisturizer | | Best Anti-Aging Moisturizer That Reduces Puffiness | |
3 | Aveeno Morning Burst Hydrating Gel Moisturizer | | Best Hypoallergenic Moisturizer to Soothe Sensitive Skin | |
4 | Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Pink Juice Moisturizer | | Best Antioxidant-Dense Moisturizer for Most Skin Types | |
5 | Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel | | Best Non-Comedogenic Gel for Oily Skin | |
6 | Murad Nutrient-Charged Water Gel | | Best Nutrient-Dense Gel to Fortify Your Skin Barrier | |
7 | Hada Labo Tokyo Skin Plumping Gel Cream | | Best Collagen-Based Gel for Deep Hydration | |
8 | Clarins Hydra-Essentiel | | Best Mattifying and Cooling Gel Moisturizer | |
9 | Paula's Choice Invisible Finish Moisture Gel | | Best Pore-Minimizing and Lightweight Gel | |
10 | L'Occitane en Provence Aqua Réotier Ultra Thirst-Quenching Gel | | Best Hydrating Gel Moisturizer That Can Double as Makeup Primer |
CliniqueDramatically Different Moisturizing Gel
Best Oil-Free, Skin-Strengthening Gel Moisturizer
Pros:
- Versatile and suitable for most skin types
- Oil-, fragrance-, phthalates-, parabens-free
- Non-greasy and non-sticky
- Can be used year-round as a lightweight moisturizer
- Comes in travel size tube and larger 6.7-ounce bottle
Cons:
- May not be hydrating enough for those with dry skin
This gel moisturizer from Clinique has a smooth texture that's easy to apply and absorbs quickly. Besides moisturizing ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin, it's also packed with antioxidant ingredients like sunflower seeds, barley extract, and cucumber, to enhance your skin's barrier.
Some people claimed that this product doesn't suit dry, sensitive skin because it doesn't provide enough moisture. However, most people with other skin types loved that the lightweight formula left their skin moisturized without feeling greasy and thought it was perfect for everyday use year-round.
OriginsGinzing Energy-Boosting Gel Moisturizer
Best Anti-Aging Moisturizer That Reduces Puffiness
Pros:
- Great for a variety of skin types
- Anti-aging and anti-inflammation properties
- Great variety of humectants and emollients
- Naturally scented with essential oils
- Comes in a jar for easy scooping of every last drop
Cons:
- Some reviewers reported that the product can pill upon application
Key ingredients in this product are caffeine and ginseng, which increase the skin's elasticity, help prevent aging, and reduce puffiness and dull skin. This product also includes a variety of moisturizers, including jojoba, glycerin, squalane, niacinamide, shea butter and more. It's naturally scented from a blend of essential oils from spearmint, lemon, and grapefruit.
Some reviewers warned that the product peeled or pilled up. However, most customers loved how quickly this lightweight formula absorbed into their skin. They also added that this product can also be used as an effective way to get rid of puffiness around the eyes.
AveenoMorning Burst Hydrating Gel Moisturizer
Best Hypoallergenic Moisturizer to Soothe Sensitive Skin
Pros:
- Oats and feverfew for soothing and calming sensitive and dry skin
- Non-comedogenic and hypoallergenic
- Free of parabens, alcohol, dyes, fragrance, and other potentially irritating ingredients
- Comes in two different sizes
Cons:
- May not be as suitable for those with oily skin
This hypoallergenic gel moisturizer includes prebiotic oat to help calm sensitive skin. It also has feverfew to help soothe dryness and cultivate a strong and hydrated skin barrier. Also non-comedogenic and free of irritating ingredients like fragrance, parabens, and dyes, this product caters to the most sensitive skin types.
Some who had acne-prone, oily, or extra sensitive skin noted that this product caused some irritation and red patches. As always, we recommend doing a patch test. However, the majority of users raved about how calming and gentle this product was, even for those with red patches, rosacea, and painful acne.
Glow RecipeWatermelon Glow Pink Juice Moisturizer
Best Antioxidant-Dense Moisturizer for Most Skin Types
Pros:
- Antioxidants and watermelon extract for hydration and elasticity
- Pump applicator suitable for hygiene-conscious
- Hyaluronic acid and glycerin for moisturizing without oiliness
Cons:
- Includes fragrance, which may be irritating to some
This gel moisturizer is made with 90 percent extract of watermelon, which is rich in vitamins and amino acids, to help neutralize free radical damage and keep your skin hydrated. Hyaluronic acid, jasmine extract, and peony extract further help improve your skin's elasticity and brighten it.
Some buyers didn't like the consistency of this moisturizer, noting it was sticky. On the other hand, many reported that it was refreshing, gentle on the skin, and didn't cause breakouts. People also loved the light watermelon scent and how this product made their skin glow.
NeutrogenaHydro Boost Water Gel
Best Non-Comedogenic Gel for Oily Skin
Pros:
- Non-comedogenic and oil-free
- Quick-absorbing
- Great for those with dry skin too
Cons:
- Includes fragrance, which could be irritating for some
This gel moisturizer is great for those with oily skin, as its water-gel formula includes two non-comedogenic, ultra-hydrating ingredients, hyaluronic acid and glycerin. Thanks to the lightweight consistency, you can either wear it alone or use it as a face primer to create a dewy makeup look.
Some reviewers mentioned that it has a heavy scent. However, most people were impressed with the moisturizing and quick-absorbing properties. They also appreciated that a little went a long way with this product.
MuradNutrient-Charged Water Gel
Best Nutrient-Dense Gel to Fortify Your Skin Barrier
Pros:
- Contains vitamins B3, B5, B6, B9, and E for anti-wrinkle benefits
- Silicon, iron, zinc, copper and magnesium improve tone and smooth skin
- Five peptides strengthen the skin's barrier
- Oil-free
Cons:
- Strong fragrance could cause irritation for some
- Not as moisturizing for those with dry skin
This nutrient-dense gel moisturizer contains five vitamins, five minerals, and five peptides to stimulate collagen production, lock in moisture, and protect the skin's barrier. Moisturizers include niacinamide, glycerin, and ceramides, and urea helps smooth the skin and bring in moisture.
Some buyers said it wasn't moisturizing enough for their skin. On the other hand, many others loved the fast-absorbing and non-greasy formula. They also noted that they saw a quick improvement in their skin condition after repeated use, seeing that their skin looked smooth, healthy, and hydrated.
Hada Labo TokyoSkin Plumping Gel Cream
Best Collagen-Based Gel for Deep Hydration
Pros:
- Skin plumping and hydrating formula
- Non-comedogenic
- Glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and squalane for moisturizing
- Urea helps with dry and rough skin
Cons:
- Formula may differ from original Japanese product
- Reviewers note it could be unsuitable for those with sensitive skin
This gel moisturizer comes with three main ingredients: hydrolyzed marine collagen, arginine, and ceramide. Collagen helps prevent signs of aging, arginine helps retain moisture, and ceramide protects your skin from pollution and irritants.
Some customers noted that it can cause itchiness and other allergic reactions. But others said they saw an improvement in their skin using this product, with healthier and plumper-looking skin.
ClarinsHydra-Essentiel
Best Mattifying and Cooling Gel Moisturizer
Pros:
- Cooling effect perfect for hot summers
- Suitable for normal, combination, or oily skin
- Includes a succulent plant extract to help retain skin's moisture
Cons:
- Includes fragrance and alcohol, which could irritate some
- Could be too harsh for those with sensitive and acne-prone skin
This matte cooling moisturizer is perfect for summer and best for those with normal to combination skin. Plant extracts and algae are included for their ability to retain moisture. As a result, this product can reduce redness, tighten skin, and improve complexions.
A few reviewers claimed that this caused breakouts and advised those who have acne-prone skin to avoid this product. However, most mentioned that it was gentle and felt comfortable on the skin. They further added that the product toned their skin and left it feeling soft, smooth, and radiant.
Paula's ChoiceInvisible Finish Moisture Gel
Best Pore-Minimizing and Lightweight Gel
Pros:
- Includes pore-reducing niacinamide
- Tube packaging suitable for on the go
- Green tea, vitamins E and C, and grapeseed for antioxidants
- Various moisturizers like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, wheat germ oil and seaweed
Cons:
- May be too harsh for those with sensitive skin
This ultra-lightweight formula comes with niacinamide and hyaluronic acid to provide good hydration, minimize pores, and protect your skin against sun and pollution. Green tea extract also helps to reduce sebum production, which is the cause of acne, and oat extract helps to absorb excess oil from your skin's surface.
Some reviewers noted that it can cause irritation and breakouts for people with sensitive skin, so they recommended doing a patch test beforehand. However, the majority of customers liked that it was silky upon application and free from fragrance. They further added that it's very hydrating and doesn't feel greasy.
L'Occitane en ProvenceAqua Réotier Ultra Thirst-Quenching Gel
Best Hydrating Gel Moisturizer That Can Double as Makeup Primer
Pros:
- Includes calcium-rich Réotier spring water from France
- Can act as a lightweight primer and base for make up
- Hydration from hyaluronic acid and glycerin
Cons:
- Strongly fragranced
- Some found it sticky
One of the key ingredients included in this product is natural Réotier spring water from the Provence mountains, which is rich in minerals like calcium to help to keep your skin hydrated and improve skin barrier functions. As a result, your skin will look healthy and radiant.
Some buyers mentioned that the product felt a bit too sticky and contained a strong fragrance. Still, most reviewers highly recommended this product for its lightweight and very moisturizing properties. Buyers also loved how it went on smoothly and quickly absorbed into the skin, adding that it's a great starting base for makeup application.
Dr. Levy's Recommended Gel Moisturizer
My patients with oily skin love the Tatcha Water Cream. It is lightweight, highly moisturizing, and effective at helping control oil on the skin. It also has soothing ingredients to help with facial redness and irritation.
Frequently Asked Questions
In addition to reviewing and commenting on our buying guide, Dr. Levy also took the time to answer some commonly asked questions about gel moisturizers.
What's the difference between gel moisturizers and creams?
"Gel moisturizers are less greasy and less occlusive on the skin," Dr. Levy explains. "They are fast-drying and do not leave a residue on the skin.
They also blend with the skin easily, so makeup can be applied over the gel base without any white residue that a cream moisturizer can sometimes leave. Both gel and cream moisturizers provide effective hydration to the skin, so it mostly comes down to preference."
Is gel moisturizer good for oily skin?
Dr. Levy says, "Gel moisturizers are great for oily skin since they tend to be more drying then cream based moisturizers. They can seep up oil in the skin and leave it feeling matte as opposed to oily. Gel moisturizers are also safe to use for acne-prone skin and can be used in combination with your acne products if you have oily skin."
Looking for More Skincare Products?
Outside of moisturizers, other types of skincare products can also help protect your skin against the environment while improving your skin texture and complexion. Check out our suggestions for these skincare products.
Amazon's Best Selling Face Moisturizers
If you still feel a bit lost, feel free to browse Amazon's Best Selling Face Moisturizers. You'll see an array of moisturizers here, from lotions and serums to face creams and gel moisturizers.
Buying Guide Reviewed by Board Certified Dermatologist Dr. Lauren Levy
This expert reviewed the contents of the buying guide for accuracy and provided factual corrections when necessary, as well as extra tips and advice. They did not participate in the product selection process, nor are they affiliated with any of our choices unless explicitly stated so.
Top 5 Gel Moisturizers
When you purchase products mentioned in the article, part of the sales may be returned to mybest.
The descriptions of each product is referenced from the content available from the manufacturer, e-commerce sites etc.
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- 10 Best Tried and True Japanese Facial Serums in 2023 (Beauty Expert-Reviewed)Japanese Facial SerumsHave you always been concerned with dryness, or felt like you want to hydrate your skin a bit more? Want to keep your skin looking youthful and healthy? Japanese facial serums can help hydrate your skin, as well as provide other benefits! These products are incredibly moisturizing and are a great addition to your skincare regimen. However, with a wide range of products, including those sold at drug stores, to expensive brands at high-end department stores, sold by brands and manufacturers like ETVOS, Matsuyama Yushi, and Kosé, to name a few, it can be difficult to choose the best one.In order to figure this out, we gathered the 87 most popular moisturizing Japanese facial serums available online from e-commerce sites popular in Japan like Amazon, Rakuten, Yahoo! Shopping, and @cosme Shopping, and tested them all.We tested each product for the following:Moisturizing abilityIngredientsFeelWe then ranked the 10 best Japanese facial serums based on the results of our tests. In addition to how to choose a highly moisturizing facial serum, we'll also explain what the benefits of a moisturizing serum are and provide tips on how to correctly use one.※Some products are described as serums or essences, but they're essentially the same product, just with different concentration levels of active ingredients.
- 10 Best Tried and True Japanese Cleansing Milks in 2023 (Beauty Expert-Reviewed)Japanese Cleansing MilksCleansing milks are great gentle cleansers, even for delicate and sensitive skin. What makes cleansing milks great is that they moisturize the skin while removing makeup, dirt, and grime from your face, similar to cleansing oil, but don't leave an oily residue, making them better for those who have acne-prone skin. Additionally, since they don't leave your face feeling greasy, you can get away with just a single wash, unlike when using cleansing oils, making them a great time-saver. However, with so many manufacturers and brands, such as Kosé, Kao, and Muji, to name a few, choosing which cleansing milk is best for you can be difficult.To figure out the best Japanese cleansing milk, we gathered the 31 best-selling products from e-commerce sites popular in Japan, such as @cosme, Amazon, and Rakuten, and tested them all.Then, based on our tests, we ranked the 10 best Japanee cleansing milks in 2022. We also talked to a specialist who used to work in cosmetics R&D about options for sensitive and dry skin and looked for products that worked on waterproof makeup. We then put together a buying guide to help you choose the right facial cleansing milk for your particular needs. Keep reading to find out more!
- 10 Best Tried and True Japanese CC Creams in 2023 (Makeup Artist-Reviewed)Japanese CC CreamsCC cream can complete your base makeup all by itself. It's popular among all generations because it covers multiple functions, such as primer, color correction, and skincare. However, with many brands like Kosé, Rohto, MAQuillAge, Kate, and SK-II, all offering different features and finishes, it can leave us wondering which one to buy.To figure out which were the best Japanese CC creams, we ordered the best-selling products from Japan's e-commerce giants (such as Amazon, Rakuten, and Yahoo! Shopping, and @cosme SHOPPING ) and tested them all with help from a professional makeup artist.We tested each product for each of the following:FinishDurabilityResistance to drynessFeelWhich CC creams were our top picks? Keep reading to find out more! We'll also explain how to choose the right CC cream in our buying guide as well.
- 10 Best Tried and True Japanese Tube Mascaras in 2023 (Hair and Makeup Artist-Reviewed)Japanese Tube MascarasMascara opens up and brings out the eyes and irises, but it sometimes also likes to claim a few lashes as a sacrifice when you take it off at night. Japanese mascara is packed with features that make them great to use, such as waterproof or smudge-proof mascara, as well as mascara that can be removed with warm water. However, with many popular brands like clue, D-Up, Carome, and ACRO, it can be hard to choose the right one for you.That’s why we ordered the 44 most popular tubing mascaras from Japan’s e-commerce giants (such as @cosme, Amazon, and Rakuten) and tested them all.We tested each product for the following:Ease of RemovalCurl Staying PowerFinishEase of UseSmudge ResistanceWe then rated and ranked each product and compiled a list of the 10 best Japanese mascaras available online. Keep on reading to find out more about the best Japanese tube mascaras!
- 10 Best Tried and True Japanese Shampoos in 2023 (Hair Stylist-Reviewed)Japanese ShampoosShampoos are essential for good hygiene and keeping the hair and scalp healthy. There is a massive lineup of Japanese shampoos, like Angfa, Mash Beauty Lab, and Diane, all offering various benefits, such as hydration, cleansing ability, and damage care. Japanese shampoos are often formulated with natural ingredients, such as camellia oil, for extra moisturization. with some swearing by Japanese shampoos, claiming that it works wonders for their hair. However, with all these options and brands, it can be overwhelming to figure out which one is the right choice for your specific needs.That's why we gathered the 28 best-selling products on e-commerce sites popular in Japan, like Amazon, Rakuten, Yahoo! Shopping, and @cosme Shopping, and tested them all.We tested each product for the following:Cleansing AbilityFeelWe then ranked the 10 best Japanese shampoos based on our test results. We also asked hair stylist, Kazuki Okumura, for tips on how to choose the right Japanese shampoo for you, so keep on reading to learn more.
- 10 Best Tried and True Japanese Makeup Removers in 2023 (Beauty Expert-Reviewed)Japanese Makeup RemoversCleansing waters, also known as micellar water, water cleanser, cleansing lotion, or just makeup remover, are water-based makeup removers that allow you to remove makeup just by wiping it off, as well as add a bit of moisture to the skin. Oil-free makeup removers can even be used on eyelash extensions as well as be used as a face wash! But with so many brands, such as Clue, Shiseido's Clé de Peau Beauté, Kosé, and the fact that they're sold at varying price points can make it difficult to choose the best Japanese makeup remover. Our editors searched popular e-commerce sites in Japan, such as Amazon, Rakuten, Yahoo! Shopping, and @cosme SHOPPING, and chose the most popular products and tested them all.We tested each product for the following:Cleansing PowerHow moisturizing the ingredients areHow gentle its ingredients are on the skinWe then ranked the 10 best Japanese cleansing waters based on the results of our tests. Keep on reading to find out more about the best Japanese cleansing waters!
- 10 Best Tried and True Japanese Face Washes for Acne in 2023 (Beauty Expert-Reviewed)Japanese Face Washes For AcneFor those in their teens going through puberty, or even those in who are dealing with acne-prone skin in their day-to-day lives, choosing a proper facial wash is extremely important in preventing breakouts. However, with so many brands, like FANCL, Kao, Kosé, and Rosette, as well as there being so many types of facial washes such as non-comedogenic products, scrub cleansers and there are even some recommended just for men - no wonder it's so hard to choose one!To solve this dilemma, our editors searched e-commerce sites popular in Japan such as Amazon, Rakuten, and Yahoo! Shopping and gathered the most popular products and tested them all to see which ones were the best for acne-prone skin.We tested each product for the following:Cleansing powerMoisture retentionIngredientsFeelKeep on reading to find out more about the best Japanese face wash for acne-prone skin!
- 10 Best Tried and True Japanese Hair Bleach in 2023 (Hair and Makeup Artist-Reviewed)Japanese Hair BleachDark Asian hair needs to be bleached to dye it any other color other than brown. And when it comes to Asian hair, you can’t beat Asian products, which is why Japanese bleaches are particularly effective, especially since Asian hair is thicker than other ethnicities. While formulated primarily for Japanese users, they place minimal stress on hair and can also be used with other hair types, and often come packaged with hair care products to treat your hair after bleaching.However, there are a lot of choices out there, and they all work to varying degrees. That's why we ordered the 11 most popular boxes of hair bleach from Japan’s e-commerce giants (Amazon, Rakuten, and @cosme) and tested them all.We tested each product for the following:Power (How Much Color It Removed)Gentleness (How Little It Damaged Hair)Then, based on our tests, we ranked the 10 best Japanese hair bleaches in 2022. We also put together a buying guide to help you choose the best Japanese hair bleach for you. Keep on reading to find out more!
- 10 Best Tried and True Japanese Waterproof Eyeliners in 2023 (Hair and Makeup Artist-Reviewed)Japanese Waterproof EyelinerJapanese waterproof eyeliners are a must-have in during the summer, or when you're at the beach or swimming pools. However, cosmetics companies and brands like Cezanne, Kanebo, Shiseido, and Imju, to name a few, have come out with tons of waterproof eyeliners. There are also a variety of types of waterproof eyeliners: liquid, pencil, gel and more, making it feel like it's nearly impossible to decide between them all!So to figure out the best Japanese waterproof eyeliners, we gathered the 38 best-selling waterproof eyeliners from Japan’s e-commerce giants like Amazon, Rakuten, Yahoo! Shopping and @cosme Shopping and tested them all.We tested each product for the following:Smudge Resistance Finish Removal FeelWe then scored each product based on how they performed in our tests, and compiled a ranking of the 10 best Japanese waterproof eyeliners. We also enlisted the help of makeup artist Atsushi Takatori, who assisted us in evaluating the finish of the products and gave us some helpful insight on how to choose a Japanese waterproof eyeliner.
- 10 Best Tried and True Japanese Lip Balms in 2023 (Hair and Makeup Artist-Reviewed)Japanese Lip BalmsYour lips are worth taking good care of, especially because they’re tender and prone to aging, just like the rest of your skin. And in Japan, as in America, lip balm is cheap and plentiful, so you have plenty of choices–choices between brands like Kao, DHC, Rohto, and KOSÉ, as well as between medicated, tinted, or organic balms. Moreover, Japanese lip balms are also popular for their high moisturizing abilities as well as their subtle scents.Which Japanese lip balms can give you plump, supple, and moist lips? To answer that question, we ordered the 10 most popular lip balms from e-commerce sites popular in Japan (such as @cosme, Amazon, and Rakuten) and tested for the following:Moisturizing abilityFeelKeep on reading to find out which are the best Japanese lip balms!
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