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Makeup is one of the most important factors that could make or break a cosplay outfit. Cosplayers sometimes spend hours exposed to sunlight or strong lighting in a photoshoot or at conventions, and it means a great deal to them to have makeup that lasts and delivers the photogenic results that they want.

Want your skin to look effortlessly flawless in photos? The good news is, the cosplay-loving Japanese have just released a lineup of base makeup items designed specifically to cater to the needs of cosplayers! The greater news is, these products are not going to burn a hole in your wallet, and non-cosplayers can use them for regular makeup too!

I believe that most makeup users, cosplayer or not, would probably agree that base makeup is the most crucial factor that could greatly affect the finish of the look. Some products may look lovely to the naked eye, but when applied, may end up looking chalky or blotchy and unflattering in photos.

The new line of base makeup products for cosplayers, CosCos produced by Liberta, claims to be able to achieve the perfect finish that looks flattering on camera, so perfect that you won’t have to rely on photo editing software to retouch your skin. Sounds like a hardcore cementing job is in place, but the products are apparently formulated with a bunch of skin care ingredients such as collagen, hyaluronic acid, squalane and honey to moisturize and nourish your skin while it creates its impeccable finish.

Here’s what they have in the lineup:
(All prices stated exclude taxes)

▼ Perfect HD Foundation 30g – 1,600 yen (US$13.60)
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Available in two variations – F Natural 01 (recommended for female characters) and M Natural 01 (recommended for male characters)
An all-in-one foundation that can be used without a primer; brightens and evens out your skin tone
Soft focus finish enhances photogenic quality
Formulated with trans-color powder to create a three-dimensional finish
Long-lasting formula with long-lasting moisturizing effects as well (contains collagen, hyaluronic acid and squalane)

▼ Clear Rank Up Powder 11g – 1,500 yen ($12.70)
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Boosts the lasting power of your makeup
A fine powder with a smooth and velvety touch
Coated particles achieve a naturally lustrous and clear finish
Soft focus finish enhances photogenic quality
Formulated with trans-color powder to create a three-dimensional finish
Long-lasting formula with long-lasting moisturizing effects as well (contains collagen, hyaluronic acid and squalane)

▼ Perfect Lip Concealer 10g – 1,000 yen ($8.50)
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A lip cream base that doesn’t dry out your lips
Comes in an easy-to-apply tube
Provides sufficient coverage with just one application
Packed with moisturizing ingredients (collagen, hyaluronic acid, ceramide, squalane, argan oil and honey)
Long-lasting even during photoshoots that involve eating or drinking

▼ Moist Cleansing Water 100ml – 900 yen ($7.65)
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Cleanse and put on your next look immediately without having to wash your face
Comes in a travel-friendly 100ml bottle
Gently cares for your skin with long-lasting moisturizing properties (contains botanical ingredients, double hyaluronic acid and collagen)
Soak a Q-tip (or cotton bud) in it and use it for pinpoint makeup removal
Effectively removes false eyelash glue as well

The makers have mentioned that the products were developed and improved based on feedback from actual cosplayers. Sounds good so far, the only downside being the limited color palette because not all characters have the same skin tone. That, and the fact that there are probably tonnes of drugstore products you can find out there that come with a cheaper price tag and similar advertised effects. I guess it boils down to whether it really is capable of producing the “perfect finish” that promises “no retouches.”

I’m slightly skeptical, but since they’re priced at fairly affordable prices, I’d take my chances with them. If they really are as magical as advertised, imagine all the time and effort that could be saved from photo editing!

CosCos is available for purchase at their official online store and Rakuten (domestic orders only it seems, sorry!).

Source/Images: CosCos via Netorabo