Hada Labo Tokyo Replenishing Hydrator Review
As a lover of Hada Labo Super Hyaluronic Acid I was quite excited when Hada Labo Tokyo Replenishing Hydrator ($17.99) popped into my skincare universe.
Recently Hada Labo Tokyo released a few products that are available exclusively at Ulta and Ulta.com but even better news the original Hada Labo Collection as well as the “new” Tokyo Collection is available at drugstore.com.
I’ve been using Hada Labo Super Hyaluronic Acid for a while now, it’s a staple part of my skincare regime so I love the idea I can now get it locally…but how does the US version compare to the Japanese one? You’ll be happy to learn both are Muse Approved!
It’s actually the same formula almost….although the name is now Replenishing Hydrator versus Super Hyaluronic Acid. It does come in a different packaging, it does have a different name, and it does have a little bit of a different texture but the formulas for the most part consist of the same or similar ingredients.
Japanese version:
Water, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, PPG-10 Methyl Glucose Ether, Disodium Succinate, Methlyparaben, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Succinic Acid, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate
US version:
The new version comes in a 1.7oz bottle versus the Japanese version that comes in a 5.7 oz bottle. The new version actually has a nice pump that I find less messy than the original pour bottle although it does dispense a little too much product so just be sure to pump slowly. I typically apply a quarter size amount although some suggest a dime’s worth but I figure it can’t do my already dry skin any harm. The consistency in the US version is very watery where as the Japanese version is also runny it has more of a gel-like feel to it. Both are clear and watery, I just feel like the Japanese version is a touch thicker.
Now Hada Labo Tokyo doesn’t quite explain the technique used for application. You actually have to apply the product into the palms of your hands and press your palms to your face. You’ll notice the product getting stickier and stickier during this method of application and it’ll feel like the skin of your face is sticking to your hands as you work. This is normal. I find this version is even stickier than the Japanese version. If you can get past the unusual consistency of the product as you apply the dry down leaves skin feeling plump, soft, and supple. I think some might get confused that never used the product before and perhaps attempt swiping it on using a cotton pad. I don’t recommend this application because you won’t benefit from the product doing this.
Hada Labo advertises the product as one drop locks up an ocean and this is true. With daily use you’ll notice your skin will retain moisture so it’s not only hydrated but it keeps moisture sealed into your skin and allows it to produce more moisture so skin is left, smoother, softer, and more hydrated as time passes.
I suffer from duller skin with dryness and application of this daily improves the overall glow of my skin and makes it look less fatigued and allows it to regain it’s luster courtesy the moisture this provides. It won’t prevent aging by any means but it will provide moisture so skin looks more youthful and glow-y!
Most skin types in Japan and Asia use this as a daily staple in their skincare regime so any skin type can use it but I think drier skin will love it even more for it’s ability to provide and retain moisture.
This is a great product and translates well to this new US version.
And if the US version isn’t your deal…no worries, as the original blue and white label is available as well within the US now. I love this is so easy to get my hands on now! Granted Sasa.com has always carried the line but it is so much easier to place an order at Drugstore.com or just to grab a bottle from Ulta!
You can learn more at hadalabotokyo.com and purchase the new Hada Labo Collection and the old at Ulta, Ulta.com, or Drugstore.com.
Disclaimer: The original Hada Labo Collection pictured above are from my own collection, purchased by me and the Hada Labo Tokyo Replenishing Hydrator was provided as a press sample for review.