T-House

The best place to consider your skincare’s pH levels is at the outset of your skincare routine. This is why you should consider using a pH-balanced cleanser. “pH” is a fairly young beauty buzzword. (Or buzz “term”, as pH stands for “potential hydrogen” or “power of hydrogen.”) For about a century, physicians have studied how this property supports and facilitates the function of skin. There are many unknowns about the complex mechanisms that make up our cutaneous system, but unlocking pH has helped the field of dermatology deepen its understanding of skin.For example: Did you know that conditions caused by inflammation, from acne to eczema, are associated with a high pH level? In fact, once you understand how integral maintaining a balanced pH is for the skin, you may find yourself paying a lot more attention to the pH values of your skincare products, especially when it comes to your cleansers. Your skin’s pH level is influenced by a variety of factors, from genetics to skin type to sweat production, but according to dermatologists, it can also be affected by the use of alkaline soaps and other high pH products.If there’s one simple strategic skincare step that can keep your skin’s pH in check, it’s the first one in your routine. This is what a pH balancing cleanser can do for you.What is skin pH? Put simply, pH measures the concentration of hydrogen ions in a given substance. An acidic solution has a higher concentration of hydrogen ions and a lower pH, while a basic, or alkaline, solution has a smaller concentration and a higher pH. Pure water maintains an elegant balance of ions in equal concentration, and sits at the dead center of the scale, with a pH of 7.On average, the human body is 60% water, but our skin is a slightly higher percentage; it follows that our skin has a pH close to that of water. Some parts of our skin system are more basic than others, but the outermost layer of our skin has been observed to sit on the acidic side of the scale, with an average pH of 5.5, according to a dermatologist at the Cleveland Clinic.This thin layer responsible for separating the delicate, intricate epidermis from bacteria, environmental pollutants, microbes, ultraviolet light and more is referred to as the “acid mantle.” As such, it’s the first stop for all of our skincare efforts—and should be first in mind when thinking about the pH of our beauty products. Why does my skin’s pH matter? Your skin is used to operating within a certain pH range. But when that range is thrown out of balance, things can start to go awry on the surface. Studies have shown that higher-than-normal pH tends to be a commonality of skin disorders caused by inflammation, like acne and eczema.This very well may have to do with the fact that a balanced, slightly-acidic pH provides the conditions for many of the skin’s basic metabolic functions—shoring up its defenses with structural lipids, keeping hydration in and infection out.Meanwhile, we know that our skin’s pH is also affected by the liquids we wash, tone, exfoliate, and moisturize with. Many of our beloved face cleansers—the ones that leave us feeling squeaky clean, primed, and ready for the day or for bed—have a high pH level, and are generally considered not great for skin. Even a different country’s tap water, which may have a different pH than the one you’re used to, can affect skin’s pH. Which is not to suggest that you avoid washing your face with water, but merely that you take into consideration how all substances we apply to our skin interact with its basic properties.How do I balance my skin’s pH? Luckily for all of us, our skin has a built-in system for regulating its pH; these are referred to as buffer systems. These systems help keep our mantles on the acidic side of neutral, and they’re highly sophisticated; they’re also prone to wear and tear, just like all of the other systems that make up our skin.You can imagine a buffer system kicking into gear when the slightly acidic skin comes in contact with a more acidic or basic substance, and working to neutralize it. You can also imagine some of the following pH-balancing steps as opportunities to give these buffer systems a rest—or, at least, take most of the work out of balancing your skin’s pH.Don’t: Overdo the exfoliation. You probably heard of exfoliating acids before you thought about how acids and bases factor into skin. In fact, our skin loves these acids because of its own inherent acidity. But too much exfoliation can throw the switch in the wrong direction, which is why you should stick to the recommended schedule—and chat with your dermatologist, first.Do: Commit to moisturizing. When it comes to maintaining our skin barrier, there are a lot of things we can do, but none help quite like old-fashioned moisturization. (And when it comes to maintaining pH balance, according to some dermatologists, the more emollient, the better.)Don’t: Opt for harsh cleansers. This is one area where people regularly expose their skin to high-pH products. One dermatologist advised readers of Real Simple: “Stick to non-soap cleansers that are more pH-balanced” for our precious acid mantles.Do: Try pH balanced skincare. A substance that is pH balanced isn’t pH neutral—that would be water—but is instead within a range close to skin’s inherent, slightly-acidic pH. Over time it’s natural to adopt products that are more acidic for some uses and more basic for others, but to maintain balance, it’s a good idea to adopt skincare that is pH balanced. What is a good pH-balancing cleanser? Start your skincare routine off with the right step. A pH-balanced cleanser is a great option for any skin type, but especially those who deal with oily skin (and may be more prone to acne). The perfect formula will effectively cleanse without stripping skin of essential moisture and nourishment; it’ll also clock in at a pH between 4 and 6.Our skincare brand, founded on using ingredients that maintain the skin barrier’s integrity, has the perfect thing: The Rice Wash uses an amino acid-rich base flecked with rice powder for a skin-softening cleanse. (In a study, 96% of users said skin felt more balanced after rinsing.)* We’ve also recently unveiled The Matcha Cleanse, a gel-to-foam cleanser formulated for oily skin with antioxidant-rich Kyo-matcha and BHA alternatives. A priming effect also carries the benefit of rebalancing oil-production. Above all, it’s lightweight, refreshing, and a pleasure to use.

Oily skin is often maligned, but there are a handful of benefits with additional oil production. The trick to managing oiliness is utilizing a skincare routine specifically optimized for oily skin. This guide explores the most effective oily skincare routine for more balanced skin. Oily skin is one of the most common skin types, yet the emotional and social impact of having oil-prone skin can be debilitating. One study found that participants with oily skin reported feelings of “unattractiveness, self-consciousness, embarrassment, irritation, and frustration.” Additional research has shown that those with oily skin can feel “uncomfortable or unkempt and annoyed” by the skin type. As devastating as that is, having oily skin is perfectly normal and perhaps even beneficial—some experts believe the excess oil and sebum lubricate the skin, allowing the face to age with less visible fine lines and wrinkles (although more research needs to be completed to solidify this belief). That said, oily skin unmanaged with an effective regime can exacerbate excess oil, potentially leading to clogged pores. Looking for tips to curb the skin’s natural oil production? When we support the skin’s natural processes through cleansing, exfoliation, and hydration, a reduction in congestion, breakouts, and hyperpigmentation can naturally occur. Keep reading to understand more about excessive oil consumption and the most effective skincare routine for oily skin.Oily Skin ExplainedAccording to the American Academy of Dermatology, oily skin is one of the five skin types (with the others being sensitive, normal, dry, and combination skin). What causes oily skin in the first place? It’s often due to genetics, so you can thank your parents for your naturally supple skin. It can also be caused by heightened hormone levels. What’s happening under the skin is sebaceous glands are secreting sebum, which naturally lubricates the skin, protecting it from drying out. But sometimes sebaceous glands can produce excess sebum, causing the skin to look excessively shiny or pores to become clogged.Skincare Routine For Oily SkinIf you have oily skin or an oily T-zone area, your skin produces extra sebum that can lead to clogged pores and potentially breakouts. Utilizing the following oily skincare routine helps bring harmony back to the skin with just a few simple steps.Step One: CleanseThe first, and perhaps most important, step in your ritual is to purify your complexion with a facial cleanser. From starting the morning fresh to unburdening the skin at the end of the day, cleansing helps wash away impurities, dirt, and other buildup accumulated throughout the day and night. Whether it's indulging in a double cleanse or an exfoliating cleanser, the right face wash can minimize excess oil, unclog and minimize the appearance of pores, and leave skin soft and ready for the next steps in your oily skincare routine.Step Two: ExfoliateAfter cleansing, oily skin will love exfoliation. Why? Exfoliating can make pores less noticeable, says the AAD. This is because when pores are clogged, they look more noticeable, and effective exfoliation basically ‘cleans out’ pores, helping to eliminate excess oil, sebum, and dead skin cells while visibly tightening the appearance of pores. This can be accomplished with physical exfoliation (scrubs or washcloths) or liquid exfoliating treatments (formulas with AHAs and/or BHAs). Check the product’s packaging to get the recommended usage tips, as some exfoliants are designed to be used nightly or twice a day (or only a few times a week).Step Three: TreatSerums are a great follow-up step after exfoliation, as they’ll be able to absorb beautifully. Serums are highly potent skincare solutions that work to increase the overall effectiveness of a skincare ritual. They tend to zero in on one focus, like brightening, hydrating, or clarifying pores. Some serums can even multitask, targeting multiple concerns at once, like brightening and exfoliating. Consider what you’d like a serum to help you accomplish and seek out one with proven ingredients and clinical results.Step Four: MoisturizeYou might be tempted to forgo a moisturizer completely due to excessive oiliness, but skipping a face lotion can backfire, causing the skin to produce even more sebum to make up for the dryness—after all, even oily skin can quickly become dehydrated. That said, an effective moisturizer is one of the most difficult products to discover for oily skin. A moisturizer is not a one-size-fits-all product, notes the AAD. They note that a moisturizer can come in several different formats, including lotions, gels, thick creams, or ointments. For oily skin, consider a lightweight, clarifying moisturizer for morning and night usage, right after a serum (or cleansing, if you’re skipping a serum).Step Five: ProtectSunscreen often has the reputation of thick, pore-clogging formulas, so much so that you might be tempted to skip SPF altogether to spare your oily skin–but don’t. Modern sunscreen iterations are brilliantly lightweight and soothing. Some can even include pore-refining ingredients, like niacinamide, that have the ability to minimize the size of pores, reduce redness, and even skin tone. Ensure that you follow the FDA guidelines on how to apply sunscreen and what to look for in SPF packaging.For a deep dive into the best products for oily skin, we’ve compiled an extensive guide here, analyzing every product that can help oily skin become more balanced and soothed. As always, if you’d like help customizing your daily ritual for your specific skin, consult our Ritual Finder.

Before you learn about the benefits of a pH balancing cleanser, it’s crucial to understand the importance of skin pH—and what happens when imbalances occur. It’s as if the world runs on an endless series of balancing acts. The expansive universe, of which we are just a microscopic particle of a particle, expands and contracts constantly, maintaining its density while growing infinitely. Inside of our bodies, a complex array of systems run to keep us in homeostasis, our lives dependent on their balance.Indeed, balance might be at the heart of everything we do. Shintoism, Japan’s national religion, emphasizes the quality of balance through its rituals and teachings. Harmony staves off chaos. You can see reverberations of this philosophy through many facets of Japanese culture, from ritual acts of bathing to mindful skincare practices.When it comes to washing one’s face, balance takes on a special meaning. Not only do we want to keep oil and water in check, or cleanse and moisturize at the same time, but we also want to keep our skin’s pH balanced. Some ingredients are better at balancing skin than others. Read on to find out about the best pH balancing cleanser for your skin—but first, in an effort to achieve some balance in your own understanding, we’ll provide a little background on what pH is, and how it affects the ecosystem of our skin. The meaning of skin pHFor centuries, scientists have known about the chemical composition of liquids, and that hydrogen in particular plays an important role in understanding the properties of those liquids. But it wasn’t until the beginning of the 20th century that a Danish scientist condensed this understanding into a simple scale, in which each liquid can be categorized with a pH—or potential hydrogen—value. The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, with water representing the dead center of the scale, at 7. Any value lower is considered acidic, and anything higher is considered basic, or alkaline.pH is important because it helps us to understand how a liquid behaves, and how it may interact with other liquids or substances. The United States Geological Survey takes a measurement of pH any time water is studied. If you work in a chemistry lab, you probably hear the term pH uttered multiple times daily. Otherwise, it’s possible that the last time you heard the term was in high school science class. But knowing that our bodies are made up mostly of water, it should come as no surprise that pH levels exist throughout the systems of our body—including in our skin. (After all, our skin is mostly water—about 64%.)Skin’s average pH is between 4 and 6, on the acidic side of things. It can be slightly higher in different areas of the body, such as in the groin and armpit, where microbial activity is distinct from, say, the skin on the chest or back of the calves. The average pH of the skin on the face is 5.5, according to The Cleveland Clinic. But it’s important to note how these values can fluctuate from person to person due to genetics, environmental factors, and even the skincare we apply to our faces. Your skin’s pH is not fixed. This is where the quality of balance enters the picture. The purpose of pH balancing skincareWhat happens when our skin’s pH goes out of whack?Think of the world’s ecosystems, from arid deserts to drenched rainforests. All have unique flora and fauna that depend on the climate of the region to allow them to live. Change in those weather systems can cause life to die out and the ecosystem to change. In a way, this is how pH functions in the body: By providing location-specific conditions for a particular system to work. You can see how balance is critical to maintaining these systems.Our skin’s pH can and will change depending on what we apply to it. Even washing one’s face with alkaline tap water is shown to increase pH up to six hours after application before things start returning to normal. Balance means staying acidic—but not too acidic. As Dr. Oz explained to Good Housekeeping, "the skin’s pH maintains the balance of acidity and alkalinity that protects us from germs, the elements, and toxic substances while keeping us hydrated and storing nutrients and minerals." When pH goes too acidic or too alkaline, you can see it in your skin via dryness, or roughness, or the surfacing of inflammatory skin issues like eczema.The skin barrier, often the target of our skincare attention, is sometimes called the acid mantle, reflecting its acidic nature. Keeping it in this balanced zone is critical for maintaining skin health. But it’s easier said than done—unless you know about pH balancing skincare. The difference between pH balanced and pH neutral While the terms pH balanced vs. pH neutral sound similar, they are critically different. The latter term, pH neutral, refers specifically to water, which has a pH of 7—the midpoint of the pH scale. Washing your face with pure water is beauty advice as old as time. But keep in mind that water is more basic than your skin. The term pH balanced, when applied in a skincare context, usually means keeping skin’s pH near its slightly acidic baseline.Our skin remains balanced thanks to the work of buffers, which are found throughout the body and help keep pH at the right functional level. Generally, being gentle with your skin, avoiding over-washing or extra exfoliation, is good for maintaining pH balance. But a good skincare formula can also help keep things under control—especially when it comes to cleansing your face. The best pH balancing cleanserAll of this is why Tatcha formulated the Matcha Cleanse—the newest addition to its bestselling face wash lineup. Soaps and harsh detergents can be disruptive to your pH level, which is why dermatologists and other experts alike recommend gentle formulas that cleanse skin without stripping. Products that work with skin, not against it, is the philosophy behind all of Tatcha’s products, and is achieved using a combination of centuries-old Japanese botanicals and contemporary skincare technology. Enter the Matcha Cleanse, a soft gel cleanser that lathers into a cloud of foam—made with a combination of BHA alternatives, as well as kyo-matcha and Japanese mugwort—time-tested ingredients that have been used to balance body and mind, inside and out.The Matcha Cleanse is particularly good for oily skin types. Maybe they’ve overwashed their skin and dried it out, leading to bouts of over-oiliness. But in essence, they’re looking for balance in their daily skincare routines. Regular use of the Matcha Cleanse, along with proper exfoliation and moisturization, can help achieve the skin balance you seek. With both a balanced complexion and mind, it’s hard not to feel peace radiate from within.

From ‘skinimalism’ and skincare-infused makeup to products with innovative ingredients (like upcycling), here are the top beauty trends for 2024. Healthy-looking, nourished, and radiant skin never goes out of style. But there are beauty trends, specifically centered around skin, that are worth having fun with and learning about. From ‘skinimalism’ to innovative ingredients, here are the top beauty trends for 2024.Barefaced—Skincare as Makeup‘No-makeup makeup’ has been a trending topic for years. The focus is on natural makeup that allows dewy, fresh-looking skin to be the star of the show. 2024 is no exception and the year will perhaps take the trend even further. That means leaning deeper into fresh-faced skin and simply enhancing skin with the lightest touch of makeup where desired. Makeup—But Actually SkincareIn the same vein as the skin-first trend, makeup is becoming more like skincare in 2024. That means makeup products, like concealer, foundation, and blush, now have skincare ingredients (like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide) infused into the formula. These skincare-makeup hybrids are not only more comfortable to wear, but also better for the health of the skin.Skin Barrier Focus2024 beauty trends will continue to focus on the health of the skin barrier. The topic has rapidly risen in popularity in the last few years and this year will further its stance as one of the most important new beauty trends. The skin barrier is your outer layer of skin, made of cells, lipids, proteins, and fats that help protect your skin from the environment. Think of it like armor, protecting the skin just beneath the surface, says the Cleveland Clinic. The integrity of the skin barrier is vital for healthy skin and when it’s damaged (oftentimes from aggressive products), the protective shield can’t thoroughly do its job, allowing extreme dryness, breakouts, and inflammation to take over. #SkinBarrier content has been watched 3.7 billion times on TikTok, as people will continue to learn how to nourish and focus on the health of their skin barrier in 2024.The microbiome—another big trend for 2024—goes hand-in-hand with the skin barrier, too. The skin’s microbiome is a collection of healthy bacteria that is a crucial aspect of our skin barrier. The Google search for “what is skin microbiome” has increased by 70% in the last year, with people wanting to learn more about how to best support their skin health. Consider Tatcha’s Indigo Overnight Repair, a serum-in-a-cream treatment that strengthens the skin barrier, hydrates, and balances the microbiome. 100 percent of users in a clinical study showed improvement in their skin barrier strength after just four weeks of use. Innovative IngredientsAs skincare becomes more high-tech, the demand for innovative ingredients will continue to rise. In 2024, you’ll see more of a celebration of inventive products and ingredients. Like Tatcha’s new Silk Serum, which contains the highly effective duo of plant-based retinol alternatives: upcycled cranberry extract and sea fennel. The innovative pair acts on the same factors as retinol to support natural skin turnover and give the look of collagen-rich skin.This also includes a focus on more sustainable ingredients in 2024, like upcycled ingredients (which are also featured in The Silk Serum) and sourcing transparency. Skinimalism or Skin MinimalismOnce upon a time, skincare regimens were 10+ steps long. While nourishing the skin is a positive thing, the multiple products that solely did one task was time-consuming and unnecessary. In 2024, you’ll continue to see a rise in products that can do multiple things in one step, helping to simplify your routine and keep your skin looking and feeling healthy.Take Tatcha’s Hinoki Body Wash, which cleanses skin while also thoroughly exfoliating in one single step. It doesn’t just focus on the skin though, the Forest Awakening Essential Oil Blend, which includes cedar, hiba, and hinoki oils, in the Hinoki Body Wash is proven to reduce stress, lift mood, and help improve well-being. (And the formula includes innovative ingredients, like cellulose as the physical exfoliant for an eco-friendly alternative to standard microplastic beads.) Sunscreen as a Permanent StaplePerhaps the most interesting and important trend for 2024 is sunscreen. This rising beauty movement, much to the delight of every dermatologist, is moving away from a ‘trend’ and into a ‘standard necessity’ category. According to a recent Instagram report, two out of three Gen-Z surveyed said they plan to buy skincare or beauty products that protect against the sun and extreme weather. This change is potentially made possible by the rise of innovative sunscreens. Many modern-day SPFs are lightweight, better at protecting from UV rays, and include skincare ingredients, like Tatcha’s new Silk Sunscreen. The silky, lightweight, and invisible sunscreen with 50+ mineral coverage contains 10 percent zinc oxide for a mineral, reef-safe filter. The formula features silk proteins, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid for an SPF experience that makes your skin feel healthier, while also providing incredible sun protection. Afterall, the ultimate and timeless trend is always a great SPF.

All liquids have a “potential hydrogen” value, and since humans are mostly water, it follows that pH plays a role in many of our biological systems—including, if not especially, our skincare. At the beginning of the 20th century, a Danish scientist coined the term pH, meaning “potential hydrogen”, to express the acidity of a liquid. A substance’s pH reflects many of its chemical traits, and the discovery gave scientists a way to represent this value using a simple and streamlined scale.Before this, human skin was observed to have totally acidic layers and totally basic ones. Two decades after the establishment of the pH scale, a team of dermatologists found the average pH level of the skin to be about 5.5, which would put it on the slightly more acidic side of pH balance. Over time, studies have been done on pH levels local to different parts of the body, and found slight variation in places like the hands, those frequent targets of soaps and detergents.For some of us, the letters pH evoke distant memories of chemistry class, and conjure the imagery of beakers and test tubes, not creams and lotions. But pH level is an important trait of your skin, and should be an important consideration in your skincare. Skin is, after all, mostly water; here’s how to care for it with pH in mind. Your skin’s pHPut basically, pH measures the concentration of hydrogen ions in a particular substance. (Another term you’ll hear for pH is “power of hydrogen.”) Pure water has a neutral pH of 7.0. An acidic solution has a larger concentration of hydrogen ions than water, while a basic, or alkaline, solution has a smaller one.Throughout the human body, pH level varies—between 1 and 8, in human organs. In the skin, the range seems to be between 5.0 and 5.5, on the acidic side of things. This is why the outermost layer of skin is referred to as the “acid mantle.” Specific skin pH will vary between individuals (and is also likely to vary on different parts of the body) but typically stays within an acidic range. Physicians have known about the acid mantle for a long time, but have only recently begun to study how pH level affects—and facilitates—skin order and disorder.A fun fact: Our skin’s pH is close to that of a medium-strong cup of black coffee. Why it mattersWe know two very important things about our skin’s pH. The first is that pH has an effect on all sorts of skin mechanisms, like the creation of lipids, and the regulation of barrier function. You can almost think of it like a temperature setting; there’s an optimal range for skin’s metabolism to function at its best, but outside of that range, disruptions can occur. A report published by the Japanese Dermatological Association correlated a high pH and disrupted barrier function in skin affected by an inflammatory disorder like eczema.The other important thing to keep in mind is that skin’s pH is not fixed, and can change when it comes into contact with other substances. According to a 2006 article in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science, “not only prior use of cosmetic products, especially soaps, have profound influence on skin surface pH, but the use of plain tap water, in Europe with a pH value generally around 8.0, will increase skin pH up to 6 [hours] after application before returning to its 'natural' value.” Genetics, as well as environmental factors, can also have an impact on skin’s baseline pH. Balancing skin pH levelWhat we don’t want to do is alkalize our skin. Raising skin’s pH inhibits its ability to do things like create structural proteins. Maintaining skin’s acid balance is the role of buffers, which operate throughout the body’s various systems. But when those buffers need help—in aging skin, or during an inflammatory response—you can assist with a few pH balancing skincare tips.Never over-exfoliate. All beauty lovers have been tempted by the promises of acids. But even though our skin is slightly acidic, using too many acids at once can not only cause a reaction, but can also throw off your skin’s pH balance. An exfoliating mask once in a while is always a good idea, but not at the expense of your acid mantle.Always moisturize. Physicians have observed that emollient products, like skin-mimicking squalane, can help maintain skin’s healthy acidity; another reason never to skip on your moisturizer.Try a pH-balanced cleanser. Because soaps and face washes are typically more basic, it’s important to keep their pH figure in mind when choosing your face cleanser. A substance that is pH balanced isn’t pH neutral—that would be water—but is instead within a range close to skin’s inherent, slightly-acidic pH. The best skincare for skin pH balanceThe best skincare for maintaining the pH balance of your skin sits, unsurprisingly, toward the acidic side of the pH spectrum. One Allure report spoke to dermatologists and composed an effective skincare spectrum of between a pH of 4 (acidic) and 7 (neutral).The best place to manage your skincare’s pH balance is in the cleanser category. Nowadays, as our understanding of how pH affects our skin has increased, so has the number of formulations designed to work with our acid mantles. Tatcha’s brand-new Matcha Cleanse is one such formula. The gel rubs into a lightweight foam that comfortably cleanses skin, keeping skin pH (and sebum) balanced in the process. The Matcha Cleanse is formulated in particular to honor oily skin, with Kyo-matcha and BHA alternatives. (It also leaves a priming effect in its wake.) The Rice Wash, a creamy cleanser, which imbues a pH-neutral amino acid base with a finely milled Japanese rice powder. Unlike other pH-neutral cleansers, it foams into a lather, leaving skin silky, smooth, well-moisturized, and—most importantly—properly pH-balanced. Tatcha also offers The Rice Wash, a creamy cleanser, which imbues a pH-neutral amino acid base with a finely milled Japanese rice powder. Unlike other pH-neutral cleansers, it foams into a lather, leaving skin silky, smooth, well-moisturized, and—most importantly—properly pH-balanced.

There are many ways to wash your face and just as many cleansers. But not all cleansers are created equally. Here’s how to choose a facial cleanser. Facial cleansers are undisputedly important. Cleansing removes dirt, oil, makeup, sweat, debris, and dead skin cells from the face and helps to maintain the overall health and appearance of skin. However, there are numerous methods to cleanse the face and countless cleansers to do so. We break down the best cleanser for you, helping to understand how to choose a face cleanser.What Is A Cleanser?As we dove into in The Best Japanese Facial Cleansers and Exfoliators, facial cleansers come in many different textures, from balms and creams to oils and lightweight foams. They work—quite literally—at the molecular level, encasing dirt, debris, and other build-up and allowing them to be washed off the skin’s surface. They are the first step in any skincare routine and arguably the most important, too.Cleansing in JapanWhile America might not prioritize cleansing, choosing to focus on complicated serums and moisturizers instead, it’s emphasized as the key to healthy skin in Japan. “Cleansing is key to a clear, radiant complexion,” noted Tatcha’s founder Vicky Tsai in her book Pure Skin. The right cleanser can not only clean the skin but prepare it for the next steps in your skincare routine, making it one of the most vital products you can use. How To Choose A CleanserWithout consistent cleansing, skin can get a buildup of debris that can clog pores, leading to potential acne, irritation, dryness, and dullness. But how do you know how to choose a facial cleanser that’s right for you? Consider your skin type, which will help you discover your ideal face wash. (If you’re not quite sure about your skin type, consult this article, which will help you narrow it down.)Best Cleanser for Dry SkinWhile it might seem tempting to limit the amount of cleansing performed on dry skin, that can only exacerbate dryness further. Instead, reach for a gentle cleanser, which can softly cleanse while also nourishing skin and helping to prep for the following skincare steps. If an oil cleanser is preferred, reach for The Camellia Cleansing Oil, which is particularly wonderful for dry skin. It gently melts away impurities, while also leaving behind pure, silky-soft skin. This versatile cleansing oil is ideal for mature and sensitive skin, as well. For more of a foaming experience, consider The Rice Wash, which has a creamy texture that gently smooths and washes away buildup without stripping skin for a soft, luminous complexion. Combination skin that errs on the side of dryness will love this creamy foam cleanser, too. These two products can be used in tandem, helping to remove stubborn makeup and debris, in a two-step process called double cleansing or the Kyoto Cleanse.Best Cleanser for Sensitive SkinA calming, nourishing cleanser (that still effectively cleanses) is necessary for sensitive skin. We know harsh formulas can strip the barrier’s natural oils, leading to more damage and dryness, so a gentle cleanser is a crucial first step in your skin-healing regime. Consider one of Tatcha’s newest innovations: The Indigo Cleansing Balm. This skin-strengthening formula instantly calms visible irritation, while also supporting and transforming the barrier. The dermatologist-tested and fragrance-free formula was crafted with weakened, sensitized skin in mind, knowing traditional cleansing can be painful and damaging. The formula includes Japanese indigo to calm visibly irritated skin; lipids and ceramides to replenish the barrier; Japanese lotus root to soothe; and mondo grass root to balance the microbiome. In clinical studies, 100 percent of participants demonstrated an improvement in barrier function after just one week of use.* But unlike harsh cleansers, the Indigo Cleansing Balm also soothes visible irritation and replenishes moisture—strengthening the skin barrier for smooth, visibly calm, and radiant-looking skin.*Based on bio-instrumentation (TEWL) clinical study on 40 panelists.Best Cleanser for Oily SkinOily skin naturally produces more sebum than other skin types and might enjoy a daily (gentle!) exfoliating cleanser, which helps promote cell turnover and prevent buildup in pores. Consider The Deep Cleanse, whose gel formula both cleanses and exfoliates, carefully lifting dirt and oil to leave skin soft and balanced. The cleanser includes luffa fruit (a natural physical exfoliant beloved by Japanese skincare aficionados for centuries) to help turn over dead skin cells, wild rose (to visibly reduce pores and minimize excess oil), and leopard lily (to soothe skin). Best Cleanser for Oily and Combination SkinThose with oily and combination skin often believe they need to over-wash their faces to rid themselves of excessive oil and prevent breakouts—but this skin-stripping step can actually do the opposite, causing the skin to produce even more oil and potentially lead to more breakouts. This is where The Matcha Cleanse steps in to save the day. The daily clarifying gel cleanser decongests pores without stripping skin, while also rebalancing skin’s natural oil production for smoother skin and reduced makeup slip-off. The refreshing watery-foam balances skin pH and addresses the skin’s texture for better makeup wear. The formula includes premium Kyo-matcha (sourced directly from the famed Uji region in Kyoto), powerhouse coix seed (used in herbal medicines for centuries to purify pores), and Japanese mugwort (to support barrier function).

There are many benefits to having oily skin—but applying makeup on this complexion takes a greater level of care and planning. We uncover the most important tips and tricks, plus the best makeup products for oily skin. Oily skin is common and has many benefits, says the American Academy of Dermatology, which includes fewer wrinkles over time. But oily skin can also lead to clogged pores and an increase in acne. The key is to strike a balance between having too much oil and maintaining your skin’s natural moisture, says the AAD. Part of that balancing act includes makeup products, which can potentially worsen breakouts if formulas are irritating or pore-clogging. Below we uncover the most important terms to look out for, tips to apply makeup without triggering irritation, and the best makeup for oily skin.Oily Skin-Approved Makeup TermsWhile these terms aren't regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), it’s helpful to be on the lookout for a handful of phrases. These can help you avoid pore-clogging ingredients and won't leave you looking excessively shiny.Non-ComedogenicNon-comedogenic means it won't clog pores, reducing your risk of triggering breakouts. This classification, which can be found on skincare and makeup labels, is beneficial for those with oily, combination, and acne-prone skin. The AAD advises looking for makeup that includes one of the following terms on its label: "Oil-free," "won't clog pores," or "non-comedogenic", as these are less likely to trigger oil production or cause breakouts. Hypoallergenic You’ll see the word “hypoallergenic” frequently on makeup, as it’s geared toward sensitive skin. However, the AAD notes that acne is a form of sensitivity, so taking steps to avoid further irritants is always helpful if blemishes are a common occurrence for your oily skin. It’s not a guarantee that the formula is safe for acne-prone or sensitive skin, but it likely doesn’t include common irritants, like fragrances, dyes, or alcohol. Many traditional formulas are packed with these irritating ingredients that can cause painful flare-ups or unpleasant sensations or reactiveness, like redness, itching, discomfort, burning, and swelling for sensitive skin.Dermatologist Tested Another term to seek out on makeup packaging is dermatologist tested, which (just like hypoallergenic) is not a regulated term, but means it’s been tested by a dermatologist for tolerance and possible irritation.Fragrance-FreeFragrance-free is another tag that’s helpful for all skin types. Fragrances are one of the most common irritants so a product that proudly states it’s free from fragrances is a great starting point.Oily Skin Makeup TipsThe key to discovering the best makeup for oily skin is choosing products that are specifically formulated with non-comedogenic ingredients. But there are a few other things to keep in mind when preparing oily skin for makeup. Skincare as MakeupOne of the best tips for successfully using makeup for oily skin is investing in a skincare routine. Prepping the skin with a nourishing cleanser, exfoliant, and moisturizer is the best way to ensure skin remains balanced all day long. Yes, a moisturizer is vital for an oily complexion, notes the AAD. To begin your ritual, consider utilizing an effective cleanser that can remove debris, dirt, and excessive sebum, like The Deep Cleanse. Then, follow up with an exfoliant, which is especially helpful for oily skin. Try a liquid exfoliant, like The Texture Tonic (designed to clarify skin daily), or a water-activated exfoliant, like The Rice Polish: Deep, which instantly reveals smoother skin—perfect before makeup. Follow up with a lightweight, clarifying moisturizer, like The Water Cream, which helps control excess oil and smoothes skin. Additionally, makeup is ideally applied over broad-spectrum sunscreen, which should be used every day. Consider the Silken Sunscreen SPF 35, which acts like a primer and blurs the look of pores for matte, silky-smooth skin. Start Clean It’s always a good idea to start with clean skin, clean hands, and clean makeup brushes. The AAD says dirty makeup brushes are a breeding ground for bacteria, which cause acne, rashes, and even fungal infections in extreme cases. They recommend washing brushes every week. Also, ensure makeup products are not expired. Additionally, make sure you're the only one who uses your makeup brushes—sharing is not caring when it comes to makeup tools. “While acne isn’t contagious, acne-causing bacteria, dead skin cells, and oil from other people’s skin can stick to your makeup, makeup brushes, and applicators,” says the AAD.Apply with CareApply makeup gently, says the AAD. Your touch should be feather light—at Tatcha we like to envision caring for skin as if it’s a delicate piece of silk—approach it with loving care and a gentle touch. Utilizing makeup brushes gently can help you avoid irritation.Remove DailyMakeup should always be washed off at the end of the day, suggests the AAD—and this daily ritual is absolutely vital for oily and acne-prone skin. Look for makeup removers that are formulated with gentle ingredients so they don’t irritate the skin. Or opt for an oil cleanser, which can be a more gentle process, as part of a double cleanse. The AAD recommends washing your face with a gentle cleanser after makeup removal, so a double cleanse is not only effective but also dermatologist-approved.Best Makeup for Sensitive SkinHere are a few makeup essentials that leave skin smooth and balanced.Best Makeup Primer for Oily Skin Liquid Silk Canvas A makeup primer can be endlessly beneficial for oily skin, while also helping to shield skin from pollutants and allowing makeup to apply better and last longer. The Liquid Silk Canvas is a weightless liquid primer with a soft, silky feel, providing a poreless appearance and minimizing excess shine with a soft focus finish.Best Setting Powder for Oily Skin The Silk Powder This talc-free, protective setting powder helps makeup last longer, blurs pores, cocoons skin against blue light and pollution, and provides a translucent, soft-radiant finish. The powder has been clinically shown to help makeup last eight hours, while also helping to instantly improve the appearance of pores, fine lines, and texture. It also provides instant and all day shine control.**Based on a clinical study of 41 subjects, using The Silk Powder on bare skin.Best Oil-Absorbing Tool for Oily SkinAburatorigami Japanese Blotting Papers The AAD recommends using blotting papers throughout the day. “Gently press the paper against your face and leave it on for a few seconds to absorb the oil,” they note. “Don’t rub the paper on your face, as this will spread the oil to other areas.” Our abaca leaf fiber blotting papers absorb excess oil without disturbing makeup or stripping skin of essential moisture.Best Makeup Tool for Oily Skin The Powder Brush A soft, carefully crafted makeup brush might feel like a luxury (and it is!) but it’s also a necessity for oily skin. As stated above, a makeup brush is ideal for applying makeup, notes the AAD, and especially one with gentle bristles that won’t irritate the skin. This animal-free synthetic brush seamlessly hugs the skin for a flawless appearance. Crafted by the famed Kashoen artisans in Kumano, Japan, the luxurious brushes have been handmade utilizing techniques established since 1883.

Dear Friend, Every January at Tatcha, we begin the new year with two traditions: self-reflection by way of a gorgeous photo of the year's first sunrise, and participating in the time-honored Japanese practice of Fukubukuro. But what is Fukubukuro, exactly? We can trace this concept back to Japan’s Edo period, during which the nation enjoyed massive economic growth and a veritable commercial renaissance. As popular demand for shoppable goods increased, specialized retailers blossomed throughout highly populated Japanese cities like Kyoto and Osaka, with merchants experiencing booming business selling their wares. These newly prosperous merchants and retailers launched an annual event to honor one of Japan’s Shichi Fukujin (Seven Lucky Gods).Inspired by Daikoku, the God of Good Fortune, the new Fukubukuro event served as the first sale of the new year, offering customers a chance to enjoy good fortune for themselves. It’s this same tradition that we honor today.During Fukubukuro, stores offer “lucky bags” to clients. These mystery bags are a stupendous deal for customers, typically containing surprise goods worth significantly more than the bag’s sticker price. As a symbol of good fortune, Fukubukuro sets the tone for the rest of the year; by beginning the year with luck and prosperity, shoppers hope to enjoy similar fortune all year long.Tatcha participates in Fukubukuro at the start of each new year as a gesture of our wishes for you, our client friends. We deeply hope that you will enjoy luck, joy, and prosperity in the months ahead, ushered in by the beauty and skincare treasures we’re so honored to share with you.Wishing you good fortune this year and in all of those to come,The Tatcha Familyand