Shu Uemura Skin Purifier Cleansing Oil Review

Spring has officially begun but as I write this, snow is fluttering down outside my window. Winter weather and harsh climates can cause skin to become dehydrated, tight and uncomfortable so I’ve been using the Shu Uemura Beauty Oils instead of face wash. These luxurious Japanese cleansers have been around for 50 years and they were initially created to remove heavy Hollywood stage makeup without damaging an actor’s skin. Since then the brand has gained overwhelming popularity worldwide, spreading the message that “beautiful makeup starts with beautiful skin.”

It takes about 3-4 pumps for a thorough coating and the oil works best if your hands and face are dry to begin with. Rubbing the liquid between your palms can waste product because it does not lather or foam. Simply massage the cleanser onto the skin and then add water to emulsify into a milky solution. It does feel like you are washing your face with a glossy oil, but it rinses clean with a supple, hydrating finish and no greasiness. My face feels soft, clean and refreshed with no uncomfortable dryness and it effectively removes makeup and impurities. 

I haven’t really tested the oils on heavy makeup yet but they are formulated to work on waterproof formulas. When dealing with sensitivity and irritation, the lightweight cleansers gently unclog pores to prevent blemishes while antioxidants and plant extracts sooth, purify, balance and nourish. 

In the green bottle you have the Anti-Oxi + Pollutant & Dullness Clarifying Oil ($46.00). This enhanced blend removes micro-impurities deep within the skin to help battle city smog and environmental aggressors. It isn’t my favorite scent but the Green Tea and Moringa extracts help restore dull, yellow skin while gently exfoliating and boosting radiance.

The Nutri Nectar Gentle Oil ($46.00) comforts, heals, strengthens and conditions delicate skin with Acai, Magnoila and Reishi Mushroom which gives the cleanser an earthy fragrance.  

The Ultime8 ($46.00) replenishes and hydrates for a soft, silky complexion and improved makeup application. The botanicals are derived from Chinese medicinal ingredients that detoxify and prevent blemishes.

The Porefinist2 Sakura Refreshing Oil ($46.00) is ideal for oily and acne prone skin. The formula washes away excess sebum and blackheads to refine and smooth.

Shu Uemura is available at Sephora, Hudson’s Bay and online at shuuemura.ca

Washbeautyco Konjac Sponge Review

If you don’t know much about the konjac craze that has been taking the beauty industry by storm and becoming increasingly popular among skincare aficionados then you are in for a treat! I can tell you first-hand that these jelly-like sponges are great little exfoliators and they kick butt when it comes to battling harsh environmental aggressors.

Konjac is derived from a nutritive root vegetable that is indigenous to parts of Asia including Japan, China and Korea. This earthy plant has been used for more than 100 years in traditional cooking and its impressive water binding properties make it a great moisturizer and cleanser for people of all ages.

Konjac is rich in vitamins, high in antioxidants, eco friendly, organic and safe for all skin types including sensitive, dry and acne prone. Not only are the sponges easy to incorporate into your daily skincare routine they are also odorless and very effective for deep cleansing and removing dead cells to balance your skin.

When you first open the packaging the sponge is very hard and dry but as water soaks through the material it becomes super soft, absorbent and plush. I like to move the sponge in circular motions, rubbing it gently over my entire face, neck and décolletage. After use I recommend hanging it up in a cool area free of condensation, water or steam to keep it dry and clean.

The Konjac sponges by Washbeautyco are handcrafted responsibly in South Korea without the use of harsh additives and chemicals. They are a great size for the face and efficiently suck up dirt, excess oil, blackheads and whiteheads without stripping the skin of moisture.

I usually use my sponge in the shower after makeup removal which keeps it free of build-up and I don’t recommend using it with face cleanser as soaps tend to alter the fibrous consistency. I love the sponge’s porous material and it's ability to absorb and retain impressive amounts of water which naturally hydrates and softens.

After use I notice a smooth veil of moisture on the surface of my skin without a sticky unpleasant residue and my face feels fresh, supple and clean. I have the original konjac which is white in color and the charcoal infused konjac which is grey. Both work well but the charcoal sponge is better suited at removing impurities, bacteria and absorbing oil.

I also like to use the sponges after shaving for smoother, softer legs and having one sponge for the face and one for the body is a great way to pamper yourself from head to toe! The konjac sponge can last up to 2 months each and I often use it 3-4 times per week. They feel amazing after long workouts, during travel and following long sleepless nights that can tire the complexion. They help recuperate and revive the skin and all you need is water!

The Washbeautyco Back to Basics Konjac Sponges retail for $14.00 each and you can find them on their website by clicking- HERE.

*Press samples featured