Kazumi Toyama, a Japanese skincare expert, recently highlighted key differences between Western and Eastern beauty routines, unveiling two surprisingly easy habits that help Japanese women keep their skin glowing.
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No rubbing—especially around the eyes.
Japanese women avoid rubbing the delicate eye area, which is sensitive and lacks strong muscle support. In contrast, many Western makeup removal methods involve wiping or tugging, leading to tiny skin tears, wrinkles, and irritation over time. Instead, Japanese women soak cotton pads in micellar water and gently press them onto their skin to dissolve makeup. Although this takes longer—usually five to seven minutes—the gentle tapping helps protect the skin and promotes better health. Western skincare enthusiasts could definitely benefit from this patient, gentle technique. -
Skipping toners in favor of nourishing essences.
While many Western routines include toners that can dry out the skin, Japanese women typically skip them altogether. They opt for hydrating essences rich in oils, plant extracts, and mild active ingredients. These essences deeply nourish the skin, balance oil production, and help prevent issues like blackheads, acne, and enlarged pores.
The genius of Japanese skincare isn’t in complex gadgets or harsh treatments—it’s in a simple, mindful approach that preserves the skin’s natural health from the very beginning. Simple? Yes. Brilliant? Absolutely.
