The Best DHC Skin Care Products

I am sure many of you have heard about DHC, and some of you may be avid fans. DHC is an olive oil based skin care line from Japan. Ever since I've jumped onto the DHC bandwagon, I have been a pious follower. You see, I grew up in Japan and remember seeing DHC products being promoted everywhere and thought nothing of it until I went to the States and heard people raving about it. That certainly aroused my curiosity. When I went back to Japan, I was once again surrounded by DHC advertisements and decided to try the products out.

Before I begin, I must state that the available range of products in the States differ than those offered in Japan. DHC Japan offers everything from supplements to lingerie to cosmetics to its well-known skincare line. The products sold in the U.S. are limited to skin care and cosmetics. Yet this does not hinder its popularity amongst Americans.

Since I have started using the products, I have noticed a huge difference in the appearance and texture of my skin. My pores are smaller, my skin has a definite glow to it, and believe it or not, the use of olive oil (used sparingly, of course) has rid my skin of blemishes. If you do decide to use the products, make sure to follow a three-step regimen catered to your skin type that consists of cleansing, toning and moisturizing. You can also use a treatment (such as a mask) 2 to 3 times a week.

Here I write about the most popular products, some of which are indeed the best of the DHC line, and I also include other lesser-known products that I find to be of exceptional quality.

1. The most popular DHC skin care product is by far the Deep Cleansing Oil. It is made of olive oil and rosemary leaf oil, and you massage it into your face to remove all traces of foundation, lipstick, eyeliner and even waterproof mascara! What's great is that it is moisturizing enough so that you don't strip your skin of valuable moisture. It is also water-soluble, meaning that rinsing with water will take every trace off so that it doesn't leave your skin feeling like an oil slick. It is great for all skin types and even if you have oily or acne-prone skin, don't be afraid to try it because of the word "oil" in the product name. It is a gentle and effective cleanser, and you'll be surprised by its ability to even dislodge blackheads. When I used it, I felt as if I was really massaging the gunk out of every pore and when I washed it off, my skin looked incredibly clean.

2. Another popular product is the Mild Soap. It is olive oil and honey based, and it is gentle enough for even the most sensitive of complexions. I used it and my skin did look clean and not dry at all, so for a simple little soap, it does what it claims. I could live without it, however.

3. The Olive Virgin Oil is a great moisturizer if you make sure to use no more than a drop. Warm it between your palms and pat your face (make sure youfve already cleansed and have used toner). At first your face will look oily, but as your skin begins to absorb the moisture, youfll find that your skin will look luminous. It is really expensive when you buy it in the U.S. as it retails for $38 for 1 oz (I got mine in Japan for 1200 yen, which is approximately 11 dollars). If you have the money, then I would recommend you splurge and get it.

4. The Washing Powder is fabulous. It is easy to carry around for travel as it comes in a flip-top bottle. You dump a bit into your hands, add water and work it into a foamy, milky lather. I like that the papain (papaya enzyme) allows for mild exfoliation and I find that whenever I use this product, my skin is smoother and clearer. It is also one of the less expensive products that DHC offers.

5. I love the Acerola products that DHC carries. Acerola is a tropical berry that is abounding with Vitamin C. There is the Acerola 100 serum, the Acerola Lotion (DHC uses the word "lotion" interchangeably with "toner") and the Acerola Gel. While the Acerola Lotion was good, the other two are phenomenal. The Acerola 100 serum is loaded with antioxidants (such as Vitamin C) that brighten the skin. After I used it for a week, I noticed that my acne scars were lightened and my general skin tone had improved significantly. The Acerola Gel is a great non-oily gel moisturizer (perfect for acne-prone and oily skin). I love to apply it before I put on cosmetics, as it really helps my foundation glide on over my skin. Its versatility as a moisturizer and a primer makes it one of my favorite products, and it doesn't hurt that with extended use, my skin ton has become clearer and less ruddy.

6. Mineral Mask. What can I say? I love it but simply cannot afford it. I received it as a gift once, and for the time that it lasted, my skin was in heaven. I used it two to three times a week, and each time after I used it, my skin felt clear, purged and rejuvenated. Often masks can make your skin feel tight, but this one is gentle enough to keep skin from becoming irritated, but is also effective enough to justify its $34 price tag.

7. On a last note, the DHC Lash Tonic is my absolute favorite. When I had initially purchased it, I doubted that it would work or live up to its promise. However, I noticed dramatic results after a week. My eyelashes were thicker and longer and after using it on my eyebrows, my sparse brows had definitely filled in. Beware as the wand is a bit prickly, so careful application is necessary to avoid eye injuries. Other than that, though, I love how it has allowed me to opt out of my usual mascara, which I have been wanting to do, as I am coming to believe that mascara does nothing but contribute to brittle and easily broken lashes.

If you feel that your skin is lackluster, or if you are dissatisfied with your current skin care regimen, then I would highly recommend that you try this line. Start out with a few basics and I am sure you will soon be branching out and testing the multifarious products that DHC carries.