Tokyo-tested, honestly reviewed

Japanese beauty, explained for the rest of us.

We're a couple in Tokyo, and we actually use the stuff we write about. Nico used to work at a cosmetics company — a real beauty obsessive. Taro didn't touch skincare until Nico talked him into it, past 30. Just honest reviews and side-by-side comparisons, with links to buy on Amazon.

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Bottle of DHC Deep Cleansing Oil
Skincare

DHC Deep Cleansing Oil Review: The 30-Year Classic, and Why Japanese Men Are Reaching for It Too

A review of DHC's Deep Cleansing Oil, the long-running Japanese cleansing oil that's already well-known abroad, and why it's increasingly showing up in Japanese men's routines too.

By NicoRead more →
Roundup

What My Wife Actually Uses Every Morning: A Real Japanese Skincare Routine

Taro walks through Nico's actual morning-and-night skincare routine, step by step — not a curated 'best of' list, just what's genuinely sitting open on the sink.

By TaroRead more →
Bottle of UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence sunscreen, SPF 50+
Skincare

Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence Review: The Sunscreen That Doesn't Feel Like Sunscreen

A review of Biore's UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence, Japan's watery sunscreen with virtually no white cast, and why it's earned a following well beyond Japan already.

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Club Suppin Translucent Setting Powder, Pastel Rose
Skincare

Club Suppin Translucent Setting Powder Review: The Powder You're Supposed to Sleep In

A review of Club Suppin's translucent setting powder, a Japanese skincare powder you pat on before bed instead of washing off, and why we think this category deserves way more attention outside Japan.

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Kose Softymo Speedy Cleansing Oil pump and refill pack
Skincare

Kose Softymo Speedy Cleansing Oil Review: The One That Actually Removes Waterproof Sunscreen

A review of Kose Softymo's Speedy Cleansing Oil, the drugstore oil cleanser Japan reaches for to remove waterproof sunscreen and makeup, and why the whole double-cleanse habit is worth stealing.

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Plus eau Point Keep Hair Finishing Stick
Beauty Tool

Plus eau Point Keep Hair Finishing Stick Review: Japan's Fix for Flyaways

A review of Plus eau's Point Keep hair finishing stick, the mascara-wand touch-up tool Japan uses on flyaways and bangs, and why this whole product category deserves a following outside Japan.

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