For years we’ve admired and loved what the Koreans have given us. Whether it’s the multiple-step routine, fermented ingredients, or skincare trends like glass skin, K-beauty will always have a special place in everyone’s heart. Moving further east, we now find ourselves learning to appreciate Japanese beauty aka J-beauty. While it’s still gaining popularity as compared with its Korean counterpart, J-beauty hosts a plethora of benefits, secrets, and techniques that are rather good for your skin.
“Japanese beauty emphasises a minimalistic approach, focusing on simplicity, efficacy, and traditional ingredients. The philosophy is about nurturing and achieving a natural, radiant complexion through time-tested ingredients and routines,” explains Dr Batul Patel, medical director, The Bombay Skin Clinic. So how is it different from Korean beauty? According to the expert, K-beauty is known for its innovative formulations, extensive skincare routines (like the 10-step routine), and trending ingredients. K-beauty focuses on achieving a youthful, dewy complexion and often introduces novel concepts and products. Read on, as Dr Patel decodes all things J-beauty–from how it works, to whether it works for Indian skin.
The Fundamentals Of J-Beauty
1. Simplicity: J-beauty often emphasises fewer steps and using products that serve multiple purposes.
2. Traditional Ingredients: Ingredients like green tea, rice bran, and seaweed, which have been used in Japan for centuries, are fundamental to J beauty.
3. Layering: The focus is on lightweight layers that deeply hydrate and nourish the skin.
4. Natural Radiance: Achieving 'mochi skin' or a plump, smooth complexion similar to the texture of mochi is a goal.
J-Beauty Vs Indian Skin
According to the expert, every skin type and ethnic background has unique requirements. Since Indian skin, however, tends to be rather melanin-rich, it can be prone to a lot more issues. These include hyperpigmentation, uneven skin tone, and scarring. “J-beauty's emphasis on deep hydration, brightening, and nurturing can be beneficial. But it's essential to note that results can vary, and not every J-beauty product will be suitable for every individual,” she states.
Dr Patel, however, believes that it is also important to remember that Indian skin is rich in sebaceous glands and owing to the humid environment that we live in. Therefore the layering of the products can sometimes lead to clogging of the pores and lead to acne breakouts.
The Key J-Beauty Ingredients Perfect For Indian Skin
#1: Green Tea: Packed with antioxidants, it can help soothe the skin and combat hyperpigmentation.
#2: Rice Bran: It hydrates the skin and can assist in brightening and evening out skin tone.
#3: Fermented Ingredients: Such as sake, these ingredients are rich in enzymes and amino acids which can help in skin renewal and hydration.
#4: Licorice Root Extract: Can help in reducing inflammation and evening out the skin tone.
#5: Hyaluronic Acid: Provides deep hydration, which can be beneficial for all skin types.
The J-Beauty Way: A Simple Skincare Routine To Follow
Step #1: Cleanse - Start with a gentle oil cleanser to remove makeup and sunscreen, followed by a foaming cleanser to remove any residual impurities.
Step #2: Soften - Use a softener (sometimes called a 'lotion' but is liquid) to hydrate and prepare the skin for the next steps.
Step #3: Serum/Essence - Apply a nourishing serum or essence targeting specific skin concerns.
Step #4: Moisturise - Use a lightweight moisturizer to lock in hydration.
Step #5: SPF - During the day, always end with a broad-spectrum sunscreen.
*Expert’s Disclaimer: While the J-beauty approach can be an excellent way to simplify and get back to basics with skincare, it's essential to remember that everyone's skin is different. Consulting a dermatologist or skincare professional can help tailor a routine specifically for your skin's needs and concerns.
