1. Double Cleansing Method
Japanese women prioritize cleanliness, especially when it comes to evening skincare. They employ a double cleansing method, first using an oil-based cleanser or balm to dissolve makeup and grime, followed by a gentle hydrating cleanser to ensure a deeper clean. This thorough cleansing routine not only prevents pore congestion but also prepares the skin to better absorb subsequent skincare products, enhancing their nourishing effects.
Moisturizing is at the core of Japanese skincare routines. Immediately after cleansing, they apply toner to replenish moisture, followed by serum, lotion, and moisturizer to lock in hydration. Notably, they utilize a unique 7-step toner method. Specifically, after cleansing and patting the skin dry, they soak a cotton pad with 1-2 drops of toner and gently sweep it across their face. This primes the skin for subsequent steps.
For the remaining 6 steps, instead of using a cotton pad, they gently pat the toner onto their skin with their hands, using 2-3 drops each time, and waiting about 2-3 minutes between each application. After completing the 7 steps, they continue with additional skincare steps like BHA, serum, essence, and emulsion, finishing with a moisturizer to seal in moisture.
This method is believed to significantly enhance the skin’s moisture levels, keeping it hydrated and dewy for extended periods. Additionally, they frequently use moisturizing face masks to further boost hydration.
Japanese women understand the importance of caring for their skin from the inside out. Their dietary preferences include antioxidant- and collagen-rich foods like fish, tofu, seaweed, and green tea, which help maintain skin elasticity and radiance. Moreover, they prioritize adequate sleep and maintain a healthy lifestyle. They avoid staying up late and are disciplined about going to bed and waking up early to maintain their body’s internal balance.
4. Religious Sunscreen Application
Sun protection is a non-negotiable part of Japanese women’s daily routines. Regardless of the weather, they diligently apply sunscreen with a high SPF to shield their skin from harmful UV rays. Their sunscreen application is not limited to the face but also extends to exposed areas like the neck and arms. Additionally, they reapply sunscreen throughout the day to maintain its effectiveness, thereby preventing sun spots and premature aging.
5. Regular Beauty Treatments
In addition to their diligent at-home skincare routines, Japanese women prioritize professional beauty treatments. They regularly visit aesthetic salons for deep cleansing, hydration, whitening treatments, and more, while also seeking expert advice from professional beauticians. Japan is also known for its unique beauty rituals like hot towel wraps and honey masks, which offer varying levels of skin nourishment and protection.
Regular beauty treatments not only address skin concerns that daily maintenance may not fully resolve but also ensure that their skin remains in optimal condition.
“The Morning Skin Care Routine: When to Apply Sunscreen?”
Having healthy and glowing skin is about more than just cleansing and moisturizing. An often-overlooked yet crucial step in any skincare routine is the incorporation of sun protection. Sunscreen for the body and face plays a pivotal role in shielding our skin from the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays, which can cause premature aging, sunburn, and an increased risk of skin cancer.