When I first saw this makeup remover (200 ml/S$17.90), I was quite taken by its soothing ocean blue hue. Part of the Hada Labo Super Hyaluronic Acid (SHA) hydrating range, this makeup remover includes AHA and BHA to gently exfoliate even as it hydrates.
The Pros
- It has a pretty colour
I know this is a little shallow but it’s nice to have something soothing and pretty to look at (the blue comes from the bottle, not the product). ;)
- It is adequate for removing light to medium makeup
It easily dissolves everything and doesn’t leave a gunky feel or traces of residue.
- It is hydrating
True to its famous SHA formula, my skin doesn’t feel tight after washing the cleanser away with water. Instead, it feels clean and smooth.
- It does not contain colourants, fragrance, alcohol or mineral oil
Although it has a slick texture similar to that of an oil cleanser, it is basically clear and almost akin to water. Like the latter, this cleaner is also scent-free.
- It is easy to use
The pump bottle effortlessly dispenses the product. I also appreciate that there is no leakage or under/over dispensing of the cleanser.
- A little goes a long way
One pump is often enough to clean my entire face because the liquid is rather emollient.
The Cons
- It stings the eyes
On no account should this be used on or near the eyes. Although this product claims to be pH-balanced, the AHA/BHA contents are probably the culprits that so strongly irritate the eyes.
- It isn’t a multi-purpose cleanser
I know this is probably a minor quibble for many who use a separate cleanser for the eyes/lips but I’m so used to my cleansers effectively removing everything that I find its inability to remove eye makeup a shortcoming and a hassle.
- It doesn’t remove heavy or waterproof makeup
Ditto the above. It is quite deceiving – it is as emollient as an oil cleanser and seems to take away makeup effortlessly but once it comes to waterproof mascara (ouch! and useless) or more tenacious products, it becomes quite ineffective.
That said, this is an easy product to use and will last quite a while. I suppose it will extend the lifespan of my oil cleansers and help me save a little money along the way as many oil makeup removers cost more than this!
Image source: Rohto Japan
This review also appears on Emakemeup
Have you tried Aqualabel Cleansing Oil? How does it compare to this?
Hey Farah,
The Aqualabel can clean off Majolica Majorca mascara! I think that says it all? ;)
This is sold in S’pore but not M’sia? Oo..
Hi Cynthia,
This product isn’t on the MY and SG Hada Labo websites either. You can find it at the Watsons stores in SG though! :)
Got it picked up for me in SG but haven’t tried hehe… It’ll be coming to Msia later this year – I checked ;) Thanks for the review
Hi PB,
You’re welcome! Hope it works for you. :)
Have also tried Aquamoist cleansing oil? :)
Hi Farah,
I haven’t tried it. I do have a few other products from the range though. :)
I do like their products. Been using the moisturizing range(not all, some lah, actually almost all LOL) for a while.
Hi Farah,
It’s a good (and affordable!) range. I like that it’s fuss-free. :)
So, how does this compare to Mandom Cleansing Express? This is more like an oil cleanser (the sales lady at Watsons said so when I picked this up and rejected her cleansing oil).?
Hi Psawyer,
This is thicker and more emollient (the Mandom cleanser feels like water). It’s not exactly an oil cleanser but it feels somewhat like one. It cleans relatively well but I prefer an oil cleanser for heavier makeup. Here’s my review of the Mandom Cleansing Express Moist: http://www.makeupstash.com/2010/06/review-mandom-cleansing-express-moist.html
Argh! I wish I read this blog before I used this product – because I put some around my eyes to remove make-up and it stung like a mother!! LOL
Hi Ling,
It can be quite painful. But it does the trick for most non-eye makeup. :)
hi,
1. is it suitable for removing liquid foudation and concealer?
2. is it suitable for oily skin? or all skin type?
Hi Louise,
1. Yes. However, it should not be used on the eye area.
2. I think it’s suitable for all skin types.
Hello,
Is it suitable for removing sunscreen?
Many thanks :)
Hi MrsRance,
It removes sunscreen for me. :)