Good news for Singapore skincare obsessives - the market just got a whole lot more interesting with the arrival of Orbis on grooming aisles.
We were acquainted with the brand when we purchased a bottle of their best-selling Cleansing Liquid during a backpacking trip in Kyoto last year, and it's one of the loveliest, lightest cleansers we've tried.
Based on the 25 year-old brand's disavowal of occlusive oils in their products, this "Oil Cut" liquid is gentle on our face - the watery-type texture is non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog pores, as well as allergy-tested for compatibility with all skin types - but tough on grime and warpaint.
The proof is in the toning pad test we always conduct after cleansing: there was no discernible makeup residue on our cotton wads after using this facial wash.
Formulated to emulsify common water-resistant ingredients in colour cosmetics, Orbis says its cleanser also contains a cocktail of hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and amino acids.
Other skin goodies include Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, a botanical conditioning active derived from the licorice plant, which is said to have anti-flaking and anti-inflammatory properties.
To use, massage gently onto damp skin in the shower, then follow up with your regular cleanser as part of a double cleansing routine.
Orbis Cleansing Liquid, 150ml, $20.50, will be exclusively available at Orbis counters at Robinsons Orchard, 260 Orchard Road, and Junction 8, #01-46 from October 2013. For more information, visit www.orbis.co.jp/en.