Japanese culture is admired worldwide, and the beauty of Japanese women has long been a standard for glass-like skin. Their age-defying skin is not just a genetic gift but the result of their dedicated skincare regimen, which we will all agree to. This has led to a global fascination with Japanese skincare routines, as many strive to match their level of beauty.
Japanese skincare is more than just a routine; it's a philosophy rooted in consistency, simplicity, and the use of natural ingredients. The core principles of the J-Beauty skincare regimen revolve around maintaining healthy skin through regular, gentle care. This means less is more, focusing on quality over quantity. They emphasize maintaining skin health rather than covering up their flaws, which results in naturally glowing and healthy skin over time.
Common Ingredients in a Japanese Beauty Routine
One of the standout features of perfect Japanese skincare is its reliance on natural ingredients. They are renowned for incorporating ingredients that are gentle, making them suitable for all skin types. Commonly used Japanese skincare ingredients are:
- Sake: The people in Japan don't just drink wine but also use it in their skincare routine. Pronounced as SAH-KAY, it is a Japanese national beverage. Commonly known as rice wine, it is a fermented rice beverage that also acts as a natural skincare enhancer, exfoliates skin, lightens, and evens out skin complexion
- Koji Rice: Koji rice is another powerhouse ingredient in Japanese skincare and is actually a byproduct of the sake brewing process. It contains kojic acid, which brightens your skin and reduces dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Koji rice also helps to improve the overall texture of your skin, making it smooth
- Japanese Sakura: Also known as cherry blossom, Japanese Sakura is renowned for its beauty and for its skincare benefits too. The extract from these blossoms promotes collagen production, improves skin elasticity, and provides a youthful glow
- Matcha: This finely ground powder of Japan's specially grown and processed green tea leaves is rich in antioxidants. It helps to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals and UV rays
A step-by-step Japanese skincare routine for glowing, glass- like skin
It is hard to believe, but the Japanese skincare mantra is minimal products and long-lasting results. Let's delve into the time-tested Japanese skincare regimen and see how we can adopt their mantra
Step 1: Cleansing
Cleansing is the primary step in Japanese skincare. The thing that makes their skincare routine standout is the double cleansing method, which includes using an oil-based cleanser first to remove dirt and impurities and following up with a gentle water-based cleanser to clean the skin.
Opt for a cleanser tailored to your skin type, whether it's oily, dry, or combination. Massage the cleanser onto damp skin, ensuring to remove impurities. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water to get fresh, rejuvenated skin.
Step 2: Exfoliating
Exfoliation is one of the most essential parts of Japanese skincare steps, and they emphasize doing it at least 2 to 3 times a week. Opt for a non-abrasive exfoliant with natural ingredients to gently slough away dead skin.
To enhance the benefits of this step, use this Matcha Konjac Sponge. Made with the roots of a konjac plant, it effectively exfoliates your skin, removing dirt and dead skin, leaving it smooth and glowing.
Step 3: Essence
Japanese skincare includes the use of water-based essences or serums. They are known for their concentrated formulas that target specific skin concerns.
Apply a few drops of the Japanese formula, Glass Glow Essence with CICA & Licorice, a 3-in-1 product that can be used as a serum, primer, or toner, and gently dab it into your skin. This ultra-lightweight essence deeply hydrates and also provides an instant, luminous glow to your skin.
Step 4: Hydrate or Moisturize.
Complete your Japanese skincare ritual by quenching your skin's thirst with a lightweight yet hydrating moisturiser. Opt for a formula enriched with humectants to replenish moisture levels and fortify your skin's barrier.
Take an almond-sized portion of Tsubaki + Matcha moisturizer and apply it to your face. This lightweight, non-greasy moisturiser provides 24-hour hydration, regulates sebum production, and also maintains your skin's elasticity like a pro.
By adopting a consistent, gentle approach, which is a cornerstone of Japanese skincare routines, you can achieve healthy, youthful, and glowing skin.
Ready to transform your skincare routine? Try incorporating Japanese skincare practices into your daily regimen and witness the difference for yourself.
