In many of our minds, good things are expensive and expensive things are good. However, in this day and age, that might no longer be true. There are many cosmetics that are budget friendly, so here are 3 Japanese brands you can check out:
# Kate Tokyo
One of the most popular cosmetic brands in Japan turned out that way because of their cheap and beautiful products. They have been on the podium for the best-selling cosmetics in Japan for quite some time. Here are some must-buys:
1. Designing Eyebrow 3D (RM44.80)
Kate is well known for their tricolor eye powder. It has received praised from countless beauty bloggers and have always been the jewel of their store!
The powder is thin and gentle to the skin. It is easy to apply and is even sweat and water resistant so it doesn't not run easily. Besides drawing your brows, it can be used to contour, brighten lying silkworms and be used as an eyeshadow. It's like the swiss knife of cosmetics!
2. Fit Rare Gel Pencil (RM45.80) & Super Sharp Liner (RM46)
Besides their eye powder, Kate's gel and liquid eyeliners are also crowd favorites! The gel eyeliner is only 1.5mm so a detailed line is more than possible. It does not run easily even when encountering sweat, tears or some rubbing, and is perfect for those with oily skin too!
The Super Sharp Liner also live up to its name by being very thin. A quick swipe and you can easily put it on!
3. Secret Skin Maker Zero Liquid Foundation (RM76.50) & Powdery Skin Maker Liquid Foundation (RM76.50)
Now, we know its not fair because we've broken the RM50 budget, but this is too good not to be shared! Kate's Secret Skin Maker Zero Liquid Foundation took the runner up spot for COSME's 2018 Best Foundations, and has been crowned the budget-friendlier version of DIOR.
The texture for this foundation is quite thin and gives a clear matte feeling when applied. Even for oily skin, the results won't be overdone but would feel more creamy and shiny than just oily. However, it is rather dry and should be avoided by those with dry skin.
The Powdery Skin Maker Liquid Foundation has been recommended before by China's well-renowned "Mr. Lipstick" - Austin Li! It is in liquid powder form, which means it changes from a liquid to powder texture when applied. It can last for 8-12 hours and is suitable for oily or combination skin.
# Cezanne
The next brand we're recommending is Cezanne. Another cosmetics brand that is a bang for the buck. It is loved by beauty bloggers all around and gets praised regularly by COSME. The must-buys include:
1. Pearl Glow Highlight (RM39.90)
First and foremost is Cezanne's Pearl Glow Highlight. The powder is fine and the highlights are just right. A light dab and brush is enough to create a glossy look so they are very much preferred by Japanese girls. There are 2 color tones to choose from: [01 Pearl White] and [02 Rose Beige], suitable for girls with a huge range of skin tones.
2. Mix Color Cheek (RM49.90)
With four different blushers in one palette, the most popular palette is the No. 05 series. It is a palette that contains a variety of colors, from pearls to mattes to allow you to blend a layered blush.
3. Lasting Lip Color (RM36.90)
Want to have a brighter complexion quick? A lipstick is the way to go! A great lipstick can make you look more energetic. This one from Cezanne is a moisturizing lipstick so those with drier lips do not have to worry about any trouble applying. Our recommendation? 504 Terracotta Orange.
#Canmake
Since we're on the topic of cheap but quality cosmetics, we cannot not mention Canmake! Their product quality is definitely guaranteed, especially their star products such as the Fleur Cheek. Here's what to get:
1. Glow Fleur Cheek (RM44.90) & Cream Cheek (RM39.90)
As we've mentioned, Glow Fleur Cheek is their star product. The blusher has 5 colors in one palette from the lightest to the rosiest pink. You can use them one at a time or altogether. Nevertheless, it's definitely worth the money! Recommended series are 04, 09, 11 and 12.
The other cream cheek is a cream blush. Just dab a little onto the cheeks and they will be quite visible and slightly glossy. Recommended colors are 05 and 16.
2. Stay On Balm Rouge (RM42.92)
The next products we're recommending are their lip balms. Canmake lip balms are very moisturizing and have a slight gloss when applied.
3. Perfect Stylist Eye (RM49.90)
If you want to make your eyes more vibrant, nice eye shadows are a must! For makeup novices, Canmake's Perfect Stylist Eye eyeshadow is pretty good. A natural earthy tone from lighter to darker shades allows you to easily complete a natural and beautiful makeup.
If you have the time, take a quick peek at Watsons and Guardian stores, you're bound to find something good to take home!
