10 Lightweight Japanese Base Products That Act Like Second Skin

Breathable formulas your skin will love

Some days call for lightweight base products. Whether the weather is extra hot and you just want a more breathable option or you’re running late and don’t have the time to prep and blend, these alternatives to a full-coverage foundation come in handy. It also doesn’t hurt that these formulas are less likely to clog pores or leave unsightly foundation imprints than their creamier counterparts. And when it comes to lightweight base products, the Japanese beauty industry has some top-notch offerings that deliver great results. Curious? Here are the best Japanese BB Creams, CC Creams and tinted moisturisers that you can buy in Singapore.

Za Total Hydration BB Cream UV SPF43 PA+++

Pink BB Cream bottle

(Photo from: watsons.com.sg)

Za Total Hydration BB Cream (SGD15.90) is the perfect budget-friendly pick for those with oily skin. It controls shine with its serum-absorbing powdery formula, while colour-correcting pigments brighten up dull complexion. This lightweight base from the Shiseido Group is also infused with skin-caring ingredients such as vitamin B and SPF to protect the skin from environmental stressors. Shop here.

KATE TOKYO Whipped Matte BB

Japanese base in black packaging

(Photo from: watsons.com.sg)

True to its name, the KATE TOKYO Whipped Matte BB (SGD20.50) features a lightweight, airy texture that resembles whipped cream. This particular formula is developed for Southeast Asian countries and is compatible with our hot and humid climate. It has good coverage and an oil control feature that makes skin appear smooth and even without the heaviness. Shop here.

Meishoku Moist-Labo Clear BB Clear Cream SPF 50 PA ++++

White BB Cream packaging

(Photo from: fairprice.com.sg)

Fan of the no-makeup makeup look? You’ll love the Meishoku Moist-Labo Clear BB Clear Cream SPF 50 PA ++++ (SGD20.61). It gives a nice natural finish that’s not cakey and lasts all day. Hyaluronic acid, collagen, ceramide, Centella Asiatica extract and tea tree oil are also added to the formula and work together to make sure that the skin stays plump and healthy. Shop here.

Senka White Beauty CC Serum

Pink CC Cream bottle

(Photo from: watsons.com.sg)

Senka White Beauty CC Serum (SGD21.90) is great for days when you want to skip coverage and prefer just a little tone-up. This non-heavy pink gel CC cream brightens and smoothes skin instantly. It also helps reduce dark spots in the long run using Shiseido's m-tranexamic acid formula. Senka’s signature ingredients such as white cocoon essence, rice bran oil and Japanese mugwort are also present to hydrate and moisturise the skin. Shop here.

Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen Skincare BB Foundation

Beige BB Cream packaging

(Photo from: watsons.com.sg)

Going for a swim and want to put on base makeup for coverage, go for the Perfect UV Sunscreen Skincare BB Foundation (SGD23.92). It’s tested and proven to be sweat- and waterproof, and the formula’s UV protection becomes even stronger once it comes in contact with water. This lightweight Japanese base also contains Kyoto Uji green leaf extract to prevent dryness and has time control powder that works to control sebum for an extended time so you can enjoy a matte finish all day. Shop here.

CUREL BB Cream

Pink BB Cream packaging from Japan

(Photo from: watsons.com.sg)

The CUREL BB Cream (SGD24.80) is a triple threat. It acts as a primer, foundation and moisturiser. On top of that, this Japanese BB Cream also has SPF 28 PA++ to complement your sunscreen and further boost UV protection. This non-sticky formula will glide smoothly on the skin and dries to a velvety finish. Shop here.

KOSE Sekkisei White BB Cream Moist

Blue BB Cream packaging

(Photo from: ishopchangi.com)

Dubbed as an “all-in-one magical wand”, KOSE Sekkisei White BB Cream Moist (SGD25.80) provides a natural almost-undetectable coverage that’s still able to address dark spots and dull areas. Aside from that, it’s also made to work as a skincare serum and is infused with a blend of oriental herbal extracts. The result is clear, moisturised skin. Shop here.

D PROGRAM Allerdefense Essence BB

BB Cream bottle

(Photo from: watsons.com.sg)

Considered to be a makeup and skincare in one, the D PROGRAM Allerdefense Essence BB (SGD38.90) camouflages redness and dullness while protecting sensitive skin from the detrimental effects of pollution. Once applied, it creates a film that blocks and neutralises fine allergens such as dust. Furthering this BB Cream’s skin-nourishing capabilities is the hamamelis Virginia leaf extract which has a potent antioxidant effect. Shop here.

Shu Uemura Stage Performer Invisible Powder

Colourless powder on compact

(Photo from: sephora.sg)

Prefer a powder formula? Check out the Shu Uemura Stage Performer Invisible Powder (SGD60). Great for everyday use, this colourless powder reduces shine with its water-absorbing properties without clogging pores or creasing on the skin. You can also use this as a setting powder on top of foundation. Shop here.

Shiseido Synchro Skin Self-Refreshing Tint SPF 20

Japanese tinted moisturiser in black packaging

(Photo from: sephora.sg)

Say goodbye to frequent touch-ups with the Shiseido Synchro Skin Self-Refreshing Tint SPF 20 (SGD65). This waterproof, transfer-resistant tinted moisturiser promises 12 hours free of unsightly crease and shine. It has Activeforce™ Technology which allows the skin to be resilient against humidity and oil so you can enjoy a long-lasting smooth second-skin finish. A good choice for workout sessions, events and days when you need an extra hard-working yet lightweight base that won’t let you down. Shop here.

(Cover photo from: Karolina Grabowska via Pexels)

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