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Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Moisture Airyfit Daily Sunscreen 1.69fl.oz (Pack of 2)
SPF 50+ PA+++
Kiss Me Japan Sunkiller Perfect Water Essence Sunscreen Gel SPF50+ PA++++
SPF 50+ PA++++
Hey y'all, it's SheRea! What's up? I'm back with another blog post, and today we're diving headfirst into my recent skincare haul. Prepare yourselves, because it's a mountain of goodies! Sunscreens dominate the scene, because, let's be honest, my stash was getting dangerously low. And as any skincare enthusiast knows, sunscreen is the holy grail, the foundation, the absolute non-negotiable of any effective skincare routine.
Even though the weather is transitioning to those crisp fall/winter vibes, sunscreen remains a daily essential. Reapplying throughout the day is key! Those sneaky sun rays can penetrate your windows even indoors, causing damage and accelerating the aging process. Don't let them win the battle against youthful, healthy skin!
Most of these treasures are PR samples, but I did splurge on a few myself from Stylevana. So, let's get right into it!
A few days ago, I shared my initial impressions of 14 new and trending skincare products – a concise yet comprehensive review of each. If you haven't caught that post yet, definitely give it a read! Once I've had ample time to thoroughly test these products and form a well-informed opinion, you can expect a more in-depth review post in approximately six months. I believe in taking my time with reviews, ensuring they're as comprehensive as possible and based on genuine, long-term experience.
Alright, let's unpack this haul!
First up is a sunscreen from one of my all-time favorite brands: Haru Haru Wonder. I'm absolutely obsessed with their toner and cleansing oil, so naturally, I had to try their sunscreen. This is the Black Rice Moisture Airy Fit Daily Sunscreen, boasting SPF 50+ and PA+++ for comprehensive broad-spectrum protection. The black rice extract promises antioxidant benefits and a boost of hydration. I'm eager to see how this performs under makeup and throughout the day. A major sunscreen roundup post is in the works, so stay tuned! I admit, I haven't been as diligent with my sunscreen application lately due to a persistent on-and-off illness. But I'm determined to get back on track, so expect a surge of sunscreen content soon. Sunscreen reviews are consistently among my most popular posts, so you know I'm committed to delivering the goods.
SPF 50+ PA+++
Broad-spectrum protection with antioxidant benefits.
Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Moisture Airyfit Daily Sunscreen 1.69fl.oz (Pack of 2)
SPF 50+ PA+++
tl;dr
Broad-spectrum protection with antioxidant benefits.
Pros
Cons
Next, we have my holy grail, my absolute ride-or-die: the HYGGEE Vegan Sun Cream. This is undoubtedly securing a spot on my top sunscreens of 2023 list (yes, a dedicated post is coming!). I might even create a separate post specifically highlighting the best sunscreens for Black skin – gotta cater to all my beautiful melanin-rich folks! I've sung the praises of this sunscreen before, likely in a favorites post or a previous haul. I've already emptied a whole tube! My only qualm? The 50ml size. While that's standard for many sunscreens, I blaze through it so quickly that I wish it came in a larger format. But other than that minor inconvenience, it's perfection. Zero pilling, seamless application… I'm utterly smitten. Clearly, as evidenced by the repurchase you see here. I'll continue repurchasing this until my last breath (or until they dare to alter the formula – please, don't!).
SPF 50+ PA++++
A favorite for seamless application and zero pilling.
HYGGEE - Vegan Sun Cream | YesStyle
SPF 50+ PA++++
tl;dr
A favorite for seamless application and zero pilling.
Pros
Cons
I've heard endless rave reviews about this next sunscreen, and I'm practically bursting with excitement to try it: the Tocobo Bio Watery Sun Cream with Hyaluronic Acid and Vigna Radiata Seed Extract (honestly, I have no clue what that is, but it sounds fancy!). It offers SPF 50 and PA+++ protection. Not only is it a social media darling, but one of you lovely readers specifically requested that I give it a whirl! So, here we are. I sincerely hope it lives up to the hype! If you're reading this, my dear reader who recommended it, I'm crossing my fingers that I adore it as much as you do! I rarely encounter an Asian sunscreen I dislike; it usually boils down to whether it irritates my sensitive eyes. Fingers crossed this one passes the test!
SPF 50 PA+++
Social media favorite with gentle formulation.
TOCOBO Bio Watery Sun Cream
SPF 50 PA+++
tl;dr
Social media favorite with gentle formulation.
Pros
Cons
Another beloved sunscreen that I've previously raved about and completely used up: the Isshihon Perfect Water Essence, alcohol-free. This gem strongly reminds me of the Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence, which I've probably discussed in a past sunscreen post (alongside the HYGGEE, most likely). It's remarkably similar to the Biore, but without the alcohol and that distinctive Biore scent. If you're a Biore devotee, chances are you'll fall head over heels for this. They're practically twins, even down to the packaging. This one never stings my sensitive eyes, which is a major win in my book. Love it! Clearly, a repurchase was inevitable.
SPF 50+ PA++++
Alcohol-free alternative to Biore with similar benefits.
Kiss Me Japan Sunkiller Perfect Water Essence Sunscreen Gel SPF50+ PA++++
SPF 50+ PA++++
tl;dr
Alcohol-free alternative to Biore with similar benefits.
Pros
Cons
Next up is the Nivea UV Deep Protect and Care. Cece from The Insider Tea recommended this one, and she swears by it. Time will tell what I think! It appears to be slightly larger than the standard 50ml, which is a plus. The packaging is in Japanese, but I'm sure the exact size is listed somewhere on the back. I'm always eager to try reader recommendations, so I'm genuinely excited about this one. I've previously praised another Nivea sunscreen on my blog, so hopefully, this one proves to be just as good, if not better!
I was practically jumping for joy when I snagged this one due to its incredible affordability: the Hatomugi UV Care and Moisturizing UV Milky Gel. I believe it's around $8 for a whopping 8.5 fluid ounces (250ml)! That's an abundance of sunscreen for the price. This can be used on both face and body, which technically applies to the other sunscreens as well, but their smaller size makes that impractical. This one comes in a convenient pump bottle, so there's no guilt involved in slathering it liberally all over. I've tried this in the distant past, but it was so long ago that my memory is hazy. I've had these products stashed away for a while, waiting for this haul post. Since it's already open, I'll incorporate it into my routine ASAP. Fingers crossed it's a winner!
6 Ounce
Affordable and suitable for face and body.
[Deal] KUMANO COSME - Reihaku Hatomugi UV Care & Moisturizing The UV Milky Gel SPF50+ PA++++ - 250ml
6 Ounce
tl;dr
Affordable and suitable for face and body.
Pros
Cons
I also grabbed the new Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence. They seem to tweak the formula every couple of years, but thankfully, it consistently delivers. I've heard positive buzz about this latest iteration. I believe I fell in love with the 2019 version, and I think this is the 2021 version… I'll include links below and clarify which is which. The packaging appears more modern, so I'm fairly certain this is the newer one. Regardless, we'll put both to the test and see how they perform!
Another Skin Aqua product! I've reviewed a different version on my blog before, specifically the Super Moisture Milk (the white bottle), but I was curious to explore another option. I'm a sunscreen junkie, what can I say! This is the UV Super Moisture Gel Gold. The white version blended in clear, despite its appearance in the bottle. This packaging reminds me of the COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream, which I adore, but it's slightly larger and a different shape. If you've tried any of these sunscreens, I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments! And if there are any sunscreens you'd like me to try, definitely let me know! I'm always open to recommendations.
4.0 oz (110 g) SPF50+ PA++++
Moisturizing with high SPF and clear blend.
Skin Aqua Super Moisture UV Gel 4.0 oz (110 g) SPF50+ PA++++ Imported from Japan
4.0 oz (110 g) SPF50+ PA++++
tl;dr
Moisturizing with high SPF and clear blend.
Pros
Cons
Just a couple more sunscreens to go! We have the Bellflower Watermelon Fresh Sunscreen. I snagged this one because it was incredibly budget-friendly (around $6 or $7). I'm perpetually on the hunt for a high-quality, affordable sunscreen. I can't detect any scent through the packaging, so I'm unsure if it actually smells like watermelon. Perhaps it simply contains watermelon extract. We'll uncover the truth in the review!
SPF 50+ PA++++
Budget-friendly with potential watermelon extract.
Bellflower - Watermelon Fresh Sunscreen | YesStyle
SPF 50+ PA++++
tl;dr
Budget-friendly with potential watermelon extract.
Pros
Cons
And the final sunscreen is actually a mist: the Pripa Privacy UV Mist. I stumbled upon this randomly on Salvana. I haven't heard anyone discuss it, but I've heard whispers that the Biore UV mist can be quite oily, so I wanted to explore an alternative. Hopefully, this one delivers! Remember, with sunscreen sprays, it's crucial to apply generously to achieve adequate protection. This one is tiny, a mere 40ml, so it might not last long. I'll report back on whether it leaves an oily residue.
SPF 50+ PA++++
Sunscreen mist alternative to Biore UV.
Kokuryudo - Privacy UV Mist SPF 50+ PA++++ | YesStyle
SPF 50+ PA++++
tl;dr
Sunscreen mist alternative to Biore UV.
Pros
Cons
Now, let's shift gears to the PR samples! I recently attended an influencer event (check out the blog post about it!) and received a plethora of goodies, including a gift card to iHerb. Naturally, I stocked up on skincare. Skin is always in!
From iHerb, I picked up the Aveeno Calm & Restore Nourishing Oat Cleanser. I have a multitude of cleansers open at the moment, so this won't be in immediate rotation. However, I've heard glowing reviews about its gentle, morning-cleanse capabilities. I tried the moisturizer from this line a while back, and it was just okay, but that was quite some time ago. Hopefully, the cleanser proves to be more impressive!
Gentle morning cleanser with soothing properties.
Aveeno Calm + Restore Facial Cleanser for Sensitive Skin, Hydrating Gentle Milky Face Cleanser with Nourishing Oat and Feverfew, Hypoallergenic Formula, Fragrance Free, 7.8 FL OZ
tl;dr
Gentle morning cleanser with soothing properties.
Pros
Cons
Next, the Beauty of Joseon Green Plum Refreshing Cleanser. Beauty of Joseon is one of my favorite Korean brands. I adore their Ginseng + Snail Mucin Essence and Glow Serum, and I have their Radiance Cleansing Balm waiting in the wings for 2024. Their Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics SPF 50+ PA++++ is also quite good (not my preferred format, but a solid option nonetheless). It was a collaboration with another YouTuber, Glow by Ramon – he's fantastic! Cleansers are probably the skincare product I deplete the fastest, so I'm sure I'll get to this one soon.
Refreshing and gentle Korean cleanser.
Beauty of Joseon, Green Plum Refreshing Cleanser, 3.38 fl oz (100 ml)
tl;dr
Refreshing and gentle Korean cleanser.
Pros
Cons
Also from iHerb: the CosRX The Vitamin C 23 Serum. It's relatively new, having launched in 2022, I believe. I strive to incorporate Vitamin C into my routine daily to shield my skin from sun damage. It's a potent antioxidant! I've been eager to try this for a while, so I'm thrilled to finally have it in my possession.
With Vitamin E & Hyaluronic Acid
Potent antioxidant serum for brightening and hydration.
COSRX - The Vitamin C 23 Serum - 20ml
With Vitamin E & Hyaluronic Acid
tl;dr
Potent antioxidant serum for brightening and hydration.
Pros
Cons
A few more items: Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patches (Invisible and Original). Thankfully, I haven't needed pimple patches lately, likely thanks to the clinical-strength azelaic acid I'm currently using. My skin is relatively clear at the moment, so my primary focus is fading hyperpigmentation from old acne marks.
Invisible and Original
Effective and invisible pimple patches.
Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch™ Original Patch - Hydrocolloid Acne Pimple Patch for Covering Zits and Blemishes, Spot Stickers for Face and Skin (72 Count)
Invisible and Original
tl;dr
Effective and invisible pimple patches.
Pros
Cons
The Peach and Lily Copper Peptide Pro Firming Serum. I've used this a couple of times, but I haven't formed a definitive opinion yet. I want to use nearly the entire bottle before rendering judgment. It's similar to The Ordinary's "Buffet" + Copper Peptides 1% serum, but I found that The Ordinary version pilled on my skin and didn't yield noticeable results. The Ordinary products aren't always the most elegant in terms of formulation. I'm hoping this offering from Peach and Lily delivers! Alison Rabbit Hole (one of my favorite skincare influencers) prefers this one over The Ordinary, so my expectations are high.
From Cocokind, we have the Rosewater Facial Toner. I appreciate a good toner, but I have discerning taste thanks to my early immersion in the world of K-beauty. Hopefully, this one isn't just glorified water.
Simple rosewater toner with hydrating potential.
Rosewater Facial Toner by Cocokind, Multipurpose Spray to Set Makeup, Double Cleanse, and Balance Skins pH, Made with Rose Hydrosol, 4 Fl Oz
tl;dr
Simple rosewater toner with hydrating potential.
Pros
Cons
I also received the Cocokind Ceramide Barrier Serum. I'm constantly striving to fortify my moisture barrier, especially since I frequently use active ingredients. I'm adding this to my routine immediately! It doesn't feel like much on my hands upon initial application, so we'll see how it performs on my face.
Fortifies moisture barrier for active ingredient users.
cocokind Ceramide Barrier Serum - 1 fl oz
tl;dr
Fortifies moisture barrier for active ingredient users.
Pros
Cons
Last but not least, the Goodlight We Come In Peace Probiotic Serum. This is also geared towards moisture barrier support. I'll likely incorporate this into my routine in 2024 – I prefer not to have too many products open simultaneously.
That concludes this skincare haul, y'all! Let me know in the comments which product you'd like to see reviewed first. I have a substantial list to work through, but I'll prioritize based on your requests. I'm out! Talk to y'all later, stay well, and take care. Peace, bye y'all!
Face Serum
Supports microbiome and moisture barrier.
We Come In Peace Microbiome Serum - good light | Ulta Beauty
Face Serum
tl;dr
Supports microbiome and moisture barrier.
Pros
Cons