Top reasons why Filipinos should give J-beauty a try
Geeking out on skincare as I turned 40 has become a source of joy. Discovering effective finds, whether online or in-store, gives a sense of fulfillment. That is why attending the recent Japanese skincare forum hosted by the new Filipino-owned brand, My Saiko Skin, did not feel like work at all.
Held at Okada Manila, the event gathered beauty enthusiasts and industry experts, all drawn by a shared love for beauty. The event served as a launchpad for the brand and an opportunity to dive into the world of J-beauty, or Japanese beauty, revealing quite compelling reasons Filipinos should embrace this skincare approach.
At the heart of My Saiko Skin is a philosophy that combines simplicity, effectiveness, and the discipline inherent in Japanese beauty practices. With over 15 years of industry experience, founder and CEO Anna Perez carefully crafted a product line that reflects her passion for precision and purity.
Anna’s commitment to J-beauty is a standard built on trust and quality. As Benson Liao, the Japan-based partner manufacturer, put it, “Our formulas go through very long and meticulous development cycles.” He highlighted that this dedication ensures that every product is not only effective but also safe for everyday use.
For Filipinos with a busy lifestyle, simplicity in skincare is key. The J-beauty regimen emphasizes a streamlined approach, which aligns beautifully with the needs of modern consumers.
Dr. Jaja Ang, a dermatologist, highlighted this during the forum, stating, “Actually, basic skincare, you need just three to four steps. That will be face wash, sunscreen in the morning, and at night, face wash and moisturizer, especially with the changes in our temperature and the humidity. Then it will depend on your skincare concern; you will tweak it a bit to address that.”
This call for a minimalist routine is relatable, especially when many are overwhelmed by the numerous products competing for attention on store shelves.
So, what are the advantages of embracing J-beauty? These are what I gathered:
Tailored for local climate. The formulations are designed considering the Philippines’ unique humid environment, ensuring compatibility with local skin types. Liao emphasized this point, noting the differences in climate. He said, “Japan and the Philippines have very different climates. We need different vehicles to create the best textures and mediums that work for the Philippines. We have the same goals, but we have different ways to get there.”
Stringent quality standards. The extensive development cycle allows for rigorous testing of each product, ensuring stability and consistency. Liao elaborated, “It’s been a long process, and we would make sure all the samples are applicable for human topical use. So everything is safe.”
Simplified skincare routines. As Dr. Ang pointed out, an effective routine consists of just a few steps, promoting an effortless approach to skincare. She said that it is more than sufficient for maintaining healthy skin.
Personalized solutions. J-beauty products, like My Saiko Skin, target individual skin concerns such as dark spots and sensitivity, allowing for customized skincare that meets specific needs.
Effective active ingredients. High-quality and stable ingredients, like vitamin C, are incorporated to enhance skin health. Perez shared, “Vitamin C is a non-negotiable for me.” She highlighted its important role in her formulation.
Gentle on sensitive skin. Recognizing that Filipino skin can be more delicate, the products are designed to be gentle while still delivering visible results.
Inclusivity in skincare. J-beauty encourages the idea that skincare is for everyone, aiming to inspire all individuals, regardless of age or skin tone.
Holistic approach to beauty. J-beauty advocates for a long-term view of skin health, focusing on wellness rather than just immediate aesthetic improvements.
In an age calling for authenticity, particularly among the Gen Z market, the J-beauty trend is gaining traction. Today’s consumers desire realistic depictions of beauty—just fresh, glowing skin rather than heavily filtered images. “We are entering a new era where everyone gravitates toward skin that looks fresh, healthy, beautiful, and glowing,” Perez noted.
Given its introduction to the country today and the availability of products that went through rigorous standards, the J-beauty trend may be worth a try. It just might give us the skin we can say, “Arigato gozaimasu! [Thank you!]” for.
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