3B, which stands for Beauty Beyond Borders, is an Asian cosmetics subscription. For just $12 per month, you’ll receive a collection of 4-5 deluxe samples that are new or popular in Asia but hard to get your hands on. Sample products that range from go-to brands such as Lioele, Etude House, and Skinfood to high-end premium brands like SK-II, Kanebo, and Sulwhasoo. Between the 8th and 10th of each month, you’ll receive notification that your box has shipped. Also, find tips and more information on key ingredients through 3b’s social pages.
In case you didn’t notice, 3b now has a branded box! All products (that fit) are packed inside a mesh bag. Anything too big for the bag sits in the box.
The information card contains a brief description of the products and directions for use. This is helpful if you are not fluent in the product’s native language. The prices noted below are from 3b, unless noted otherwise.
It’s Skin Todak Todak Pore Care Pack ($3.00): I received this mask pack before in another subscription. It is a clay mask and contains egg whites for oil absorption and apples to tighten pores and smooth skin. It is rich in nutrients to soften brittle and rough skin. There is enough in the container for 2-3 uses. I felt a combination of cooling effects and tingling while this was on. The mask does not completely dry during the 10-15 minutes that you’re wearing it.
Neogence Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Lotion ($3.33): This is not a lotion. It is actually a toner. From Taiwanese favorite Neogence, this toner helps with flaky, irritated, sensitive, and acne-prone skin. I feel that this will be good to use during my monthly breakouts.
The manufacturing and expiration dates for the hydrating lotion.
La’dor Damage Protector Acid Shampoo ($10.00): Most shampoos are on the acidic side because the acid helps scales on the hair follicle lie flat. This is a gentle formula that contains argan oil to moisturize. I’ve used La’dor conditioners before and been happy with the results, so I can’t wait to try this shampoo out.
When 10:00PM Sheet Mask ($7.00): This is a bio-cellulose sheet mask packed with watermelon extracts (antioxidants and Vitamin C), collagen (hydration and elasticity), and ginseng (energize and brighten) to make you look as if you’ve gotten a full night’s rest. I can’t say that my face looked a lot more awake after using this mask, but my skin felt great. This brand can also be found at Sephora.
Etude House Moistfull Collagen Deep Cream ($3.00): This cream contains 49% super collagen for a smooth and youthful skin. It is a very rich formula and provides a lot of hydration. I was surprised by how easily it absorbed into my skin. This will be great during the drier and colder months ahead.
The October 3B Box has an approximate value of $26. While there wasn’t an announced theme, the box seemed to be curated around winter rescue. I was happy to get the Todak Todak mask pack again – I love clay masks. The Neogence toner is another happy discovery that I am anxious to try.
Have you tried 3b yet? What are your favorite K-beauty products? Share a comment below with your thoughts.
On a side note: Before trying any Asian cosmetics subscription, expect that most information on the package will be in the native language. That said, more and more brands are including directions/ingredients in English, and information can also be found in English on the majority of brands’ websites (you may have to choose a brand’s global or US site). Secondly, a large number of products focus on brightening or whitening the skin. As a person of color, I have not seen my skin color change. Instead, I’ve experienced that my skin tone gets evened out after prolonged use. However, your results may be different. And lastly, many products contain ingredients which are animal-derived, so these may not be an option if you are vegan. You can also check out cosDNA.com to see if the ingredients for the product are listed there.
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