Is this a ‘lotion’ like a creamy moisturiser, or is it a ‘toner’? This is a key point in Japanese skincare. In the J-beauty vocabulary, a ‘lotion’ (kesho-sui) is what is commonly known as a hydrating or treatment toner in Western beauty. It is a watery liquid designed to be the first step after cleansing to flood the skin with hydration and active ingredients. It is not a thick, creamy moisturiser.
Why should I use this over a regular hydrating toner? While a regular toner focuses on hydration, this Transino Clear Lotion EX is a certified ‘quasi-drug’ treatment product. Its primary purpose is to deliver the powerful brightening ingredient, Tranexamic Acid, deep into the skin to actively target the root causes of hyperpigmentation like sun spots and melasma. It provides excellent hydration and a potent treatment in one step.
Do I still need to use a moisturiser after applying this lotion? Yes, absolutely. This lotion provides deep hydration (water-based). To have a healthy skin barrier, you also need moisture (oil-based). Following up with an emulsion (like the Transino Clear Milk EX) or a cream is essential to seal in the lotion’s powerful hydrating and brightening benefits, preventing them from evaporating, which is especially important in a dry climate.
What does the ‘EX’ in the product name signify? The ‘EX’ indicates that this is the ‘Extra’ or ‘Evolved’ new formula from Transino. It has been upgraded to not only include Tranexamic Acid but also Transino’s latest proprietary complexes, such as their “Stratum Corneum Refinement Ingredient EX,” which is designed to further improve skin smoothness and translucency for an even clearer, more luminous complexion.
How does this product help with sun damage? The intense Australian sun is a primary cause of dark spots. This lotion helps to combat the effects of sun damage by using Tranexamc Acid to interrupt the melanin production process that is triggered by UV exposure. However, it is a treatment, not a replacement for sunscreen. For a complete defence, you must use this lotion as part of a routine that includes a high-SPF, broad-spectrum sunscreen every single day.