Somewhere around the middle of 2017, as I looked at my dull and dry skin, I realised that although I am only 30 years old, my face looks like that of a 40-year-old. 

I made a promise to myself: I am going to take better care of my skin. 

There is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to skincare, it is a matter of trial-and-error. Still, it gets really confusing when there are too many choices. 

I turned for guidance from celebrities and fashion bloggers, because they are supposed to be the experts, right? I tried the highly-acclaimed SK-II Facial Gentle Cleanser, SK-II Facial Clear Lotion and SK-II Facial Treatment Essence, but it is too damn expensive for long-term use for salaried workers like me. 

I remember I really liked the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Mousse Cleanser when I used it a few years back, so I decided to try out the whole works. I got the whole works: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Mousse Cleanser, Neurogena Hydro Boost Clear Lotion, Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel,   Neutrogena Hydro Boost 3D Sleeping Mask and Neutrogena Hydro Boost Mask.

Let me go through them one by one and give you my two-cents’ worth.

Step 1: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Mousse Cleanser

The cleanser comes out in foam form which means that I don’t have to lather up anymore. My face feel hydrated and clean after washing without that overstretched feeling that some cleansers gives me.  This is still one of my favorite cleansers. 

Step 2: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Clear Lotion

I like that this toner does not contain alcohol, so it does not dry out my skin. It does give me the occasional tingling sensation when I apply it on my skin, but that only happens when my skin is dry.

Step 3: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Treatment Lotion Pre-Essence

This is the toner and it is alcohol-free so it does not dry up my skin. Infused with hyaluronic acid, this toner hydrates my skin while cleansing off the impurities on my face, leaving my skin refreshed and supple. 

Step 4: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel

This is the daytime moisturizer. It contains an innovative progressive release system, which draws moisture from the air and release it into the air over time to combat dryness. It also contains hyaluronic acid for extra hydration and moisture retention. It claims to be able to moisturize the skin for up to 12 hours, but I personally find that it is good for about 4-6 hours in air-conditioned places. It does not clog the pores and a little bit goes a long way. Just a ten-cent amount is enough to cover the whole face. 

Step 5: Neutrogena Hydro Boost 3D Sleeping Mask

This is the nighttime moisturing gel. It contains Neutrogena’s Moisture Sensor Complex and hyaluronic acid which replenishes moisture when you need it and repairs skin barrier to lock the moisture in. It also contains antioxidant

lemon peel formula helps to repair the skin’s barrier against harsh environment aggressors. I don’t like that it contains fragrance and that it is too thick, but it does leave my skin supple and hydrated in the morning. A little bit goes a long way. Just a ten-cent amount is enough for the whole face.