Skip to content

Bag

Your bag is empty

Continue shopping

Enjoy up to 15% off 4 full sizes of your choice with our set curator

Get Started

Select Gifts

10 Things I Learned From a Geisha

10 Things I Learned From a Geisha

The geisha have shared many secrets with me over the years, but the ones I treasure most are not the beauty tips—although I love each and every one of those too!—but the things they have mentioned in passing or taught me through elegant example. Whenever I am feeling tired or in need of a boost, I find myself returning to these truths and find myself feeling better before long.

1. A large part of the allure of the geisha stems from the fact that they’re a little bit unknowable. I’m no longer single, but if I were I would definitely take some learnings from that. It's a good thing to be a little bit mysterious.

2. Red lipstick looks good on everyone.

3. True beauty begins in the heart and mind.

4. There are many attractive women out there, but it is hard to not be attracted to someone who is confident, courageous and has a point of view.

5. When it comes to showing some skin—less is more. When in formal kimono almost every inch of their body is covered. The only areas exposed are the hands and the nape of the neck, tantalizing the imagination.

6. Although the West has largely misappropriated the geisha as concubines, they are in fact highly trained professional dancers and musicians, very well educated and very good at what they do. Being excellent at what you do is undeniably appealing.

7. There’s a lot to be said for dressing up. Especially in this land of hoodies and jeans, putting on a dress or something special not only feels good, it celebrates your feminine side.

8. Wash your face every night. Because purification is at the heart of the geisha beauty ritual, taking the time to properly cleanse my face every evening makes me feel like I am getting a truly fresh start.

9. Stay out of the sun! I will walk across the street to stay in the shade and always wear sunscreen. Long before science proved how damaging UV rays are for the skin, the geisha knew that staying out of the sun kept their skin looking healthy. Using a deeply hydrating moisturizer, like the GOLD Camellia Beauty Oil, is one of my favorite ways to end the day.

10. Some of the most attractive, mesmerizing geisha I have known are the ones who were in their 70s and beyond, because they have honed the art of being an interesting person over all those decades. In the West, we are obsessed with youth and beauty, but these women have taught me that beauty is something to be gained over time, not something that is lost over time.

Recent Posts

View all
What is Fukubiki?
Heritage & CultureJul 24, 2026
What is Fukubiki?

The Japanese game of fukubiki is a centuries-old tradition still practiced today at seasonal festivals and even retailers. Learn about the custom and how you can win up to 4 complimentary minis for a limited time. What’s your favorite summer activity? If you have the chance to visit Japan, you’ll likely get to experience one of its famous summer festivals, or natsu matsuri. Though each has its own meaning and purpose, at their root most seasonal festivals are held to honor nature’s gifts, reconnect with the community, and pray for good fortune. These vibrant and colorful celebrations are often a showcase of the neighborhood with local craft vendors, dancing, fireworks, carnival games, and even a lottery known as fukubiki.  The traditional game is said to have originated in 702 when Emperor Shomu held a New Year’s party where strips of paper were drawn for prizes like a beautiful cloth. Modern versions are sure-win raffles that can be held anytime of year where paper fukubiki are drawn from a wooden box. Fukubiki are said to reveal one’s fortune, and in more recent years, earn you a prize at your favorite retailer from mystery bags to discounts.  To bring the spirit of good fortune to you, we’ve started our own fukubiki-inspired tradition. From July 31st to August 9th, everyone will be a winner with a choice of up to four complimentary minis with a $100+ order. You may even win the chance to choose a full-size prize! Ready to try your luck? Get started now.

Dewy Skin Routine
Caring for SkinJun 25, 2026
Dewy Skin Routine

Dewy skin is synonymous with healthy-looking skin. While many products can fake a radiant glow, Tatcha is dedicated to getting your skin naturally dewy. This natural radiance is possible, in part, thanks to Tatcha’s proprietary complex Hadasei-3. Hadasei-3 resurfaces, hydrates, and protects, and is comprised of a special blend of fermented rice, green tea, and algae. Our dewy skin routine is powered by Hadasei-3, the backbone to some of our most glow-enhancing essences, serums, and moisturizers.

Japanese Matcha Benefits for Skin
CalmingJun 11, 2026
Japanese Matcha Benefits for Skin

Matcha is finely powdered green tea that is known for its bright green hue, distinct cultivation, ceremonial preparation process, and transformative health benefits. There are different grades of matcha, with ceremonial being the most prized. Ceremonial-grade matcha comes from younger tea leaves that are more prized for their delicate flavor and potent health benefits. Matcha is also found in many skincare formulas, which might sound strange at first, but the green tea’s powerful antioxidants also work wonders on the skin, helping to soothe, calm, and balance. 

View all

Subscribe to our newsletter

By signing up, you agree with our privacy policy.