Have you heard of the mochi skin trend? Apparently, this skincare trend that I discovered when I visited Japan is already a thing in the Philippines! Unlike the glass skin trend that goes for a wet-like glossy appearance, mochi skin favors a soft and bouncy texture similar to an actual mochi dessert. How can one achieve it? Based on experience, Japanese skin care brand Hada Labo (which literally translates to “Skin Lab”) can help a lot!

Even before Hada Labo sent over Shirojyun Premium Whitening Lotion samples, I’ve been a fan of their Goku Jyun Hydrating Lotion which I bought from a local Watsons store. I got used to the slightly sticky finish from the hydrating lotion, so I was pleasantly surprised when I tried the new Premium Whitening Lotion.

TEXTURE / FEEL

Even though it’s called a “Premium Whitening Lotion”, this product isn’t the cream-type of lotion so don’t be surprised. The texture is similar to the Hada Labo Hydrating Lotion which feels more like a toner. However, I personally prefer the Whitening Lotion as it’s less sticky and lighter on the skin. It dries easily so it’s easy to top it off with makeup while leaving skin feeling bouncy smooth (or in my friends’ words “like a baby’s butt”).

INGREDIENTS

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While it’s labeled as “whitening”, this product is also hydrating as it has Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin C, and Vitamin E. It promises to address common skin concerns like freckles and skin pigmentation, rebalance skin tone, and restore skin radiance to bring out a brighter, youthful glow. 

Let’s go through the benefits one by one:

• There are two types of Hyaluronic Acid in this product: These form a layer of barrier on the skin’s surface to prevent moisture loss and enhance the absorption of other skincare ingredients, all while penetrating deeply into the skin to provide moisture into the inner skin layers. 
• Vitamin C: A well-known brightening ingredient that can help reduce dark spots, redness and dullness, and even out the skin tone.
• Vitamin E: Like ingestible capsules, Vitamin E in topical products like this can help protect skin from discoloration. It’s also linked to minimizing the appearance of scars, fine lines, and wrinkles. 

HOW TO USE

As per its label, Hada Labo recommends their Premium Whitening Lotion to be used twice a day after cleansing. I apply it directly on my palms and just pat away!

For better results, Hada Labo suggests to use their Shirojyun Premium Whitening line which includes the Shirojyun Premium Whitening Face Wash and Shirojyun Premium Whitening Water Cream. I have yet to try the other two but so far, I’m pretty much satisfied with the Premium Whitening Lotion. It’s been over two months if I’m not mistaken, but I only got the chance to write this now after finishing two bottles (your Manila Millennial has been pretty busy, so sorry).

Full disclosure: I also visit a skin clinic every month and try on different skincare products but when it comes to maintenance, Hada Labo is part of the routine I go back to.

WHERE TO BUY

The Shirojyun Premium Whitening products from Hada Labo are available at Watsons, Zalora, and Mentholatum store on Lazada and Shopee. Price starts at Php 195 for the 30ml bottle, but it’s also available in bigger sizes.

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