Chiharu Nagatomi | SAKURA × Chiharu Nagatomi Dialogue (Part 2): The Must-Watch Super Serum
We welcome model and beauty journalist SAKURA.
SAKURA × Chiharu Nagatomi Dialogue (Part 2): "Must-See Super Serums"
This installment of "Chiharu Nagatomi's Beauty Close-Up," our new series that began last time, features model and beauty journalist SAKURA. In this second part of "An Introduction to Style," we delve into her "hints for beauty." Today, we focus on "currently trending skincare items."
Text by OPENERS
Photos by Emiko Hara
Skincare to Upgrade Your Skin?
NagatomiNow, regarding cosmetics, which is your specialty, SAKURA, are there any categories or trends you're particularly noticing in the first half of the year?
SAKURAThe organic market is really gaining momentum, and it's becoming easier to find these products in department stores and fashion select shops. I still think there's a strong trend of people starting with bath and hair care items or candles because of their lovely scents and textures. When it comes to results-driven anti-aging care, the most exciting category right now is "super serums." These are products you can add to your existing skincare routine to boost the effectiveness of the products you apply afterward. They make your daily routine feel much more engaging. They offer both immediate and lasting effects, and simply put, they're "skincare that upgrades your skin." This is a new trend, and I find it a very interesting direction. The formulations are truly evolving.
SAKURA
NagatomiYou've arranged a few here, but the packaging itself has a strong, unique character we haven't seen before, doesn't it?
SAKURAIt really does. For example, Helena Rubinstein's "Prodigy P.C. Serum," released in April, has a green bottle, unlike the rest of the line. The combination of deep green and gold is also fresh, and I instinctively thought, "Wow, I want to try this!" You can tell the manufacturer is putting a lot of effort into promoting it, and since consistency is key for skincare results, there's something here that makes you want to use it (laughs). It's truly a trend-setting skincare item for today.
NagatomiAs we get older, our skin isn't always in perfect condition every single day, so I feel that incorporating these super serums not only boosts our skin but also brings a sense of stability. I imagine you use a variety of items, SAKURA, but after trying Helena Rubinstein, how do you think it's best used?
SAKURAI think it's especially good for those who want to actively address wrinkles and dullness. It has a light texture and absorbs wonderfully.
NagatomiYou seem to get younger every time I see you, SAKURA, so your recommendation carries a lot of weight! Your skin looks so firm today! Helena Rubinstein is definitely one to watch. Speaking of which, wasn't it Lancôme's "Génifique," released last summer, that really kicked off the popularity of these booster-effect super serums? The commercials were quite impactful, so I'm sure it's fresh in everyone's memory...
SAKURAIt was a hot topic in the beauty industry, wasn't it? Many of my friends and acquaintances asked me, "What do you think of Génifique?"
NagatomiMe too! It might have been the product I received the most inquiries about recently.
SAKURAThe next one to appear was Christian Dior's "Capture Totale One Essential." It was released on January 1st. They were very particular about the "One" in the product name, releasing it on New Year's Day. "One" is also highly praised for nurturing the skin's inner strength. I also liked its straightforwardness – the claim that it works effectively even when used with items from other brands. Cosme Decorte's "Cyclic Key" was just released in May.
NagatomiIt comes with a specific application method, massaging it in, but its immediate effect of creating a radiant complexion might be what sets it apart from other super serums.
SAKURAAnd the bottle fits so nicely in the palm of your hand, which makes it feel approachable and lovable!
SAKURA × Chiharu Nagatomi Dialogue (Part 2-2): "Must-See Super Serums"
It penetrates deeply, and you can feel your skin plump up right away!
NagatomiActually, I've secretly been thinking that people are moving away from serums lately. With the increasing availability of gel-type multi-creams and sheet masks, I wonder if the concept of serum as the main player in anti-aging is fading. So, I did an experiment the other day.
SAKURAWhat kind of experiment?
NagatomiI wondered how women in the past managed to get clean with just one bar of soap when they went to hot springs, so I actually tried it. I thought it might be reckless (laughs), but I also wanted to reconfirm the power of serums (laughs).
SAKURAAnd how was it?
NagatomiIn the end, I used a serum after bathing, and I was reminded of how amazing current serums are. The plumping effect on the skin is incredible, and I was surprised again by its functionality – the ability to make you feel beautiful from within, something you can't achieve with just lotion.
SAKURAThat's right. These super serums are simple yet upgraded. They each incorporate unique ideas for use, making them quite individual.
NagatomiA few years ago, high-performance, high-priced creams were a big topic, and this seems like it could be the next boom.
SAKURAI'm usually a cream person for my daily routine, but lately, I've been enjoying incorporating serums!
NagatomiThey do feel special, don't they? That's why you can cherish every single drop.
SAKURAThe visuals are also appealing, making you want to use them. You look at them and know they'll sell (laughs). The overall balance is good – the size is compact, the price is reasonable, and they're the ultimate anti-aging serums.
NagatomiI think women today who are pursuing beauty should try them at least once.
SAKURAI agree. I recommend getting advice at the counter about when and how to use them.
NagatomiWithin a skincare routine starting with cleansing, "internal care" is actually something men are also interested in. Don't you think these super serums, when you look closely, also convey a sense of masculine strength?
SAKURAIndeed, they have a grounded feel (laughs). The image of a strong, dignified woman is popular right now, and these serums feel very luxurious, suggesting a way to "take yourself one step up from last year."
NagatomiOur supportive favorite products (laughs).
SAKURAExactly, they're our daily support.
NagatomiThank you very much, SAKURA!