18 Months of Skincare Empties: What I Finished, What I Thought, and What I’m Using Now

Over the last year and a half, maybe closer to two years, I’ve been saving all my skincare empties. Some of these products have been with me since my previous apartment, others were bought after I moved into my current place. They’ve all now been used up, and instead of repurchasing, I’ve replaced every single one with something different.

This is part personal reflection, part product review, and part “what’s next.” If you have oily skin like me (especially in the T-zone) but still need hydration without heaviness, this might give you some inspiration.

Face Wash: Breaking Up with Gel Cleansers

Emptied: A Vitamin-C gel cleanser (forgot the brand name)

In Japan, gel cleansers seem to be everywhere. I’ve tried two different ones, and while they did clean my skin well—leaving it brightened and refreshed—I just never fell in love with them. The texture wasn’t satisfying, and I always felt like my oily T-zone needed something more.

I know gel cleansers can be gentle, and for some people, they’re perfect. But for me? I’m just not a gel cleanser person.

The replacement: Senka Perfect Whip Premium Clear Cleanser.

This is a foaming cleanser, and I’m already obsessed. My skin feels so fresh, tight, and clean afterward, without feeling stripped. Plus, I can’t deny it, the purple tube is gorgeous. While I know this cleanser is popular, I picked it based on my skin type and needs rather than following trends

Toner: Nice, but Not Transformative

Emptied: D Soothing Toner (by Don Qujote maybe?)

My finished toner was gentle, calming, and hydrating. It was nice for daily use, but I didn’t notice any improvements in my skin concerns. I tend to keep two toners on hand at all times: a “standard” one and a “trial” one I rotate in to try new things. Unless a toner blows me away, I move on quickly.

The replacement: Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant.

Interestingly, I bought it for my legs rather than my face. I have keratosis pilaris and wanted something to smooth the skin there. I’ve been using it sparingly on my face as well, and so far it’s been fine on both my oily face and my dry legs. No dramatic results yet, but since it can take 2–3 weeks to see changes, I’m giving it time.

Sunscreen: Lightweight Wins

Emptied: Skin Aqua UV Moisture Gel (White Bottle)

My old sunscreen bottle is long gone (decluttered during a recycling spree), but I enjoyed using it.

The Replacement: SUNCUT Tone UP UV Essence by Kose Cosmeport

That said, my new sunscreen is lighter and feels better on my oily skin. I apply sunscreen religiously—on my face, neck, arms, and even legs if they’re exposed. The one drawback: If I apply it unevenly, it can leave a white cast. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it means I have to take a little extra care when blending it in.

4. Double Cleansing: Balm, Oil, and Cream

Emptied: Olive and Argan Cleansing Oil by Deve

(熊野油脂 ディブ オリーブ&アルガンクレンジングオイル)

I’ve always believed in double cleansing, especially if I’ve been wearing makeup or sunscreen. For years, I preferred cleansing balms. I love the texture, but I hate scooping product out of a jar—it feels unhygienic and messy. Oils are easier to use, and the one I tried was lightweight, non-greasy, and even worked with water in the shower. Unfortunately, it wasn’t the best at removing stubborn makeup.

The replacement: Nameraka Honpo Makeup Remover Cream

I’m currently trying a cleansing cream, and I might have found my happy medium. It’s not as thick as a balm, not as runny as an oil, and it feels lovely on the skin. I’ve only used it a few times so far, but first impressions are promising. This one is from SA, a brand I already trust because I love their eye cream.

Eye Cream: A Pump Makes All the Difference

Emptied: Nameraka Honpo Sana Wrinkle Eye Cream

I used up my SANA eye cream and decided to explore something new— bit before we talk about my new eyecream, let me just say that I actually really like Sana. I generally prefer lightweight serum like creams. The reason I went with an alternative.

Replacement: Beauty of Joseon Revive Eye Serum: Ginseng + Retinal [BOJ] Ginseng Eye Cream

partly because I found one with a pump dispenser. I’ve never seen an eye cream packaged this way before, and it intrigued me. The product itself is lightweight, almost watery in texture, and absorbs beautifully. It’s also fragrance-free, which is a big plus for sensitive under-eye skin.

It happens to be K-beauty, which usually means skin-friendly formulas. I love how it feels, and unless I need something more targeted for dark circles or fine lines in the future, I’ll happily stick with this one.

Travel Sunscreen: Switching for Makeup Days

Emptied: It's a green tube called CICA Sunscreen from Daiso

For sunny days out, I used to carry a cooling-effect sunscreen in my bag for touch-ups. It was refreshing, but when I started wearing makeup again, it didn’t layer well over foundation.

The replacement: SCINIC ENJOY Super Active Airy Sun Stick

I’ve moved to a UV stick for on-the-go reapplication. I haven’t tested it over makeup outdoors yet, but on my hand it feels smooth and weightless. I’m optimistic it will work much better for my new routine.

What I Learned from This Round of Empties

Going through these products confirmed a few things about my preferences:

Texture matters. I’ll choose foam over gel cleansers every time. Function beats familiarity. I won’t repurchase a product unless it actually addresses my skin concerns for the now. Packaging can be a game-changer. A pump for eye cream and a stick for sunscreen both made application easier.

Skincare is so personal, and what works for me might not work for someone else—but experimenting keeps things fun. This was just the facial skincare portion of my empties collection. Next, I’ll be diving into haircare, and I have a lot to say there too.

Until then, here’s to finishing products, finding better fits, and enjoying the process along the way.