nmnl is a new subscription box by the brains behind Tokyo Treat and Yume Twins They promise to deliver a Japanese beauty experience curated by people familiar with the current trends in Japan. I love Tokyo Treat and Yume Twins so I am very excited to open their first box – let’s get started!
DEAL: Save $5 on your first box with code SAKURA!
What makes nmnl different from other Japanese beauty boxes (or Asian beauty boxes in general) is that I was able to find Japanese retail prices for almost everything in this box. I’ve said before in other reviews that it’s hard to get a solid idea on value due to exchange rates, resellers, etc. These prices are what Japanese beauty gurus would pay at their department stores, and gives a better idea of the value of the box overall.
The booklet is brief but contains all the information necessary.
All the products included are photographed and the variations are shown as well.
Sailor Moon Prism Lashes ($10.66) I am so excited about this – I have loved Sailor Moon for well over 20 years. These lashes are the second series done by SHO-BI and feature a two-toned nylon lash with the senshi’s signature color at the outer corner. It also includes a lash case you could also use to carry coins or pills. I only wear false lashes when I cosplay because I wear glasses daily and falsies are too long and hit my lenses!
KOJI Dolly Wink Eyelash Glue Hard Type ($8.63) I have always enjoyed the Dolly Wink line (their eyeliners rock!) but have never tried what they’re most famous for, their lashes. This glue is the “Hard Type” formulation which is sweatproof and waterproof. Since it didn’t arrive in its retail packaging I got in touch with nmnl to clarify – they bought it wholesale which is why the plastic packaging is not there. It is sealed with a sticker so I don’t question its integrity, just wanted to be certain for my review. It’s a great idea to include this item with the lashes, and the lashes don’t come with glue!
JAPANGALS Hello Kitty Moisturising Mask Set ($7.11) Hello Kitty sheet masks infused with cherry blossom extract to moisturize skin. This package is resealable and masks will stay moist for up to 60 days.
Cherry Blossom Soap I don’t normally use bar soap on my face, but this one can be. Sakura leaf helps with skin issues and is also very hydrating.
Santan Pucchi Animal Hand Lotion (~$5) Santan does a lot of character goods featuring popular characters like Hello Kitty, as well as the adorable bunny brand Le Sucre. I couldn’t find an exact price on this specific item but their products range from 500-1000 yen. The silicone handle can be removed for stashing in your purse.
Zawachin x Noyl Eyeshadow Palette ($3.54) Zawachin is a Japanese YouTuber whose makeup skills are so on point she can transform herself into looking like celebrities, such as Lady Gaga! She collaborated with Noyl to create this palette. Four variations were sent out. This palette was hyped as being only 399 yen, which is extremely cheap and no doubt attractive to people who are fans of Zawachin and makeup! The quality is by no means MAC quality and the colors are sheer – which is actually good for some of the brighter shades.
Swatches of the four purple shades. They are sheer but build up nicely.
The approximate value of the first nmnl box is around $35 – a bit more for the soap which I couldn’t find a price for. Given that shipping is included in the box, I think it’s a pretty good deal. I think by focusing on a smaller amount of items they have set themselves up for success rather than promising too much. They are also on-trend with items that are popular in the Japanese beauty and fashion scene and brands I actually know about, which is awesome.
What did you think of the first nmnl box?
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