Japanese haircare has been everywhere, and after seeing clip after clip of shiny, silky hair, I finally gave in.

I tested these viral products myself to see whether they actually deliver or are just internet-famous. Here’s my real, no-filter take.

1. Tsubaki Premium Hair Mask

This mask genuinely feels like luxury in a tub. From the first use, my hair felt noticeably softer, smoother, and way easier to manage. The shine is instant, and detangling becomes effortless—especially helpful for damaged or dry hair days. Another standout? The scent. It’s rich and elegant and lingers beautifully in the hair long after rinsing. This one feels like a salon treatment you do at home without the salon price stress. Easily my favourite out of the three.

2. Momori Peach Hair Cream

The peach scent is adorable at first… but sadly, it doesn’t stick around. Once applied, the fragrance fades quickly, which was a little disappointing. Texture-wise, this product can be tricky. Using even slightly too much makes the hair look heavy and product-y, so a tiny amount is key.

3. &honey Ex Damage Repair Hair Oil

This hair oil is a quiet overachiever. Half a pump is more than enough to make my hair feel softer and look healthier. The texture is lightweight and absorbs well without leaving behind greasiness, which I really appreciate. The scent is sweet and delicious but not overpowering—it stays subtly in the hair and feels comforting. Bonus points for how well it tames frizz without weighing strands down.

Not everything that goes viral will work for everyone, but a few gems really do deserve the hype. The Tsubaki hair mask was a clear standout, while the &honey hair oil earned a permanent spot in my routine. The Momori cream wasn’t a fail, just not a wow—for my hair, at least!