Coming in Hot and Selling Out in Japan? Exploring the Kanebo Skin Harmonizer and Rouge Star Vibrant Lipsticks
Skincare and makeup are among my two favorite things, and I've recently stumbled upon new treasures in both categories. The chic and exclusive event that unveiled Kanebo's latest offerings took place at Prologue D’fined inside Mitsukoshi BGC, which also houses the brand’s flagship store. They've been building anticipation with teasers on social media, so I was thrilled to finally witness firsthand how this esteemed brand has harnessed its research to craft their newest beauty innovations.
Kanebo's latest innovation, the Kanebo Skin Harmonizer (180ml), is a direct response to the discovery of how unsaturated fatty acids (UFAs) in sebum contribute to skin dryness and roughness. Retailing at an introductory price of P2,000 (P2,500 regular price via Lazada), this product employs Targeted Sebum Trapping Technology to capture these UFAs, simultaneously enriching the skin with moisture through a Keratin Moisture Complex. Moreover, it boasts a blend of botanical extracts including Thujopsis Dolabrata Branch, Roman Chamomile Flower, and Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf, which further aid in skin conditioning.
The Kanebo Skin Harmonizer is an innovative dual-phase lotion with a 98:2 water to oil ratio, necessitating a good shake before each use to mix properly. This formulation strikes a balance on your skin, with the dominant water phase acting as a conditioning essence—moisturizing and rejuvenating the skin—while the 2% oil phase serves as a protective veil. It's recommended to apply 1.5ml to the face and an additional 1.5ml to particularly dry areas, using either a cotton pad or directly with your hands. This product’s versatility extends to a DIY lotion mask for an extra hydration boost.
What really piqued my interest in the Skin Harmonizer is its suitability for dry skin types, especially if you, like me, notice your skin becoming dehydrated throughout the day, leading to an oily T-zone. This product may help balance this by hydrating the skin effectively. For best results, use it after the Kanebo Skin Refiner and before applying the Cream in Day (or Cream in Night), as part of your essence/lotion step in your skincare routine.
Now on to the lipsticks! New technology is always being developed to make lip products last longer, to have more vibrant colors, and to be more comfortable on the lips. The Kanebo Rouge Star Vibrant Lipstick (P1,680 sale, P2,100 reg via Lazada) encapsulates all these advancements. Its Vibrancy Lasting Technology ensures that the lips remain plump, vibrant, and glossy for an extended duration. This is achieved through the innovative use of the 5R Vibrant Base and Color Lasting Pigment, which provide bright, enduring color, complemented by the Dewy Gloss Fix Gel that offers a finish resistant to creasing, removal, and smearing.
I've been trying out the V01 Cupid Stone shade, described as "a soft pink with a golden glow." It starts off sheer but is quite buildable. V01 is on the lighter spectrum, delivering a subtle color that's ideal for work meetings and everyday wear.
For a comfortable wear, Kanebo included the Intelligent Moist Compound, an oil base to moisturize the lips while wearing the lipstick. I have been bringing this around and I can attest to using this lipstick without the need for lip balm. There are 12 colors currently available here in the Philippines with two of them being limited edition shades. Check out the swatches below and take your pick. Mine would be V01, V03, and V05 for pinks while V02 and V04 look good for the reds.
(From Top) V01 Cupid Stone, V02 Classical Red, V04 Core Red, V07 Inmost Desire, V08 Peach Blossom
(From Top) V03 Rapture Rose, V05 Vivid Passion, V06 Heat Red, V09 Innocent Mood, V10 Golden Amber, EX1 Delight Orange, EX2 Sweet Up
Kanebo products are available online at Lazada, Zalora, and Rustan’s. If you want to test the products in person, especially the lipsticks, you can visit their flagship boutique at Mitsukoshi, BGC.
