In this era of beauty minimalism, the importance of developing a proper skincare routine has become the focal point of the way through which we can achieve what we deem “beautiful.” In contrast to the maximalism of the 2010s, where it was all the rage to cover your face with layers of makeup, the rise of the “clean girl” aesthetic promotes the use of as few cosmetic products as possible in putting together a look that makes one feel most confident. This is where skincare becomes of the essence, as the clean look is meant to merely emphasize the radiance that is already there, or one’s natural glow.

Achieving this “Mochi Mochi Glow,” as dubbed by Japanese skincare brand Hada Labo, must first come from understanding your skin — from its texture, to how it reacts to external factors, to what it needs. This is exactly why the brand held a luncheon last Nov.7 at 1120 House Makati in commemoration of their newly released Premium Whitening Moisturizers, introduced by Hada Labo brand manager, Jenny Arcellana. Guests were invited to enjoy a hearty meal while being given the opportunity to explore these new products, as well as be educated on the science behind their carefully crafted formulas.

Board-certified dermatologist, Dra. Beatrice Maxine Chan, explained that the key ingredient used was hyaluronic acid, which is a natural lubricating substance often found in the joints and other connective tissues. Due to its organic nature, it allows the moisturizing product to be safe for all skin types.

Dra. Chan proceeded to highlight the three brightening active ingredients that aid in achieving that Mochi Mochi Glow, which are niacinamide, alpha-arbutin, and vitamin C. “Niacinamide enhances skin tone and barrier, alpha-arbutin brightens and reduces discoloration, and finally, vitamin C can illuminate dark spots by inhibiting tyrosinase, an enzyme responsible for skin discoloration,” she elaborated.

The Premium Whitening Moisturizers, which served as the main focus of the event, showcased two products, namely the Water Cream and the Water Gel. The Water Cream, the heavier, more potent one of the two, is said to be best for dry, sensitive, and aging skin. On the other hand, the Water Gel caters more to oily, acne prone skin.

I personally have really dry skin, which is why I tend to hoard moisturizers and lotions. With that being said, I, of course, had to test these ones out for myself. So I approached the Hada Labo beauty advisors who measured the hydration levels on both my hands, then proceeded to apply some products to see how my skin would react instantly. On my left hand, the level turned from 21 to 60 percent after applying just one layer of the Premium Whitening Water Gel. On my right, it turned from 10 to 40 percent after using the Premium Whitening Water Cream.

Hada Labo’s Premium Whitening collection also features their popular face lotion together with their face wash. With the use of these products, it only takes three steps to achieve that Mochi Mochi Glow. For best results, it is advised to follow the “cleanse, hydrate, and moisturize” routine when using Hada Labo’s products.

Stay updated on what Hada Labo has in store for us by following @hadalaboph on Facebook and Instagram.