The Japanese have long been admired for their smooth and youthful-looking skin. Their secret lies not only in luxurious beauty products but also in incorporating familiar and accessible ingredients into their daily diet. Among these, matcha and natto are the two “secret weapons” that help Japanese women maintain their radiant and dewy complexion without the need for heavy makeup.
Natto – A Natural Source of Collagen for Firm Skin
Natto, a famous Japanese fermented soybean dish, is not only beneficial for health but also a powerful ally for the skin. Its sticky texture and distinctive flavor may be off-putting to some, but this food is rich in the enzyme nattokinase, which improves blood circulation and lends a natural rosy glow to the skin.
Japanese people typically consume 50-100 grams of natto for breakfast, pairing it with soy sauce, mustard, or scallions to enhance its flavor. The high content of vitamin K2 and isoflavones in natto stimulates collagen production, maintaining skin elasticity and vitality while preventing sagging. Additionally, this dish aids in detoxification, promoting healthy skin from within.
Matcha – A Natural Shield Against Aging
Alongside natto, matcha is another indispensable “treasure” in the Japanese beauty regimen. Finely ground from young tea leaves, matcha is unique compared to regular tea as it retains all its nutrients. The Japanese typically mix 2-4 grams of matcha powder with 60-80ml of hot water at 80°C, then use a bamboo whisk to create a smooth foam.
The high catechin content in matcha provides powerful antioxidants that protect the skin from the damaging effects of UV rays and pollution – the primary causes of premature aging. Moreover, the L-theanine compound in the tea helps reduce stress and prevents stress-induced wrinkles. Regular consumption of matcha not only results in even and bright skin but also promotes overall relaxation.
Beauty in Simplicity
Japanese women have proven that a scientific diet is sufficient to maintain youthful skin. The combination of matcha and natto exemplifies a minimalistic yet effective lifestyle. While one protects the skin from external harm, the other nourishes and regenerates from within, resulting in mochi-like skin without relying on expensive cosmetics. This is not just a skincare secret but also an elegant philosophy worth emulating.
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