【Part 2】Reader giveaway included! If the raw ingredient contains alcohol, it's not alcohol-free. We are committed to ingredient labeling that thoroughly investigates origins.
BEAUTY / FEATURES
March 9, 2022

【Part 2】Reader giveaway included! If the raw ingredient contains alcohol, it's not alcohol-free. We are committed to ingredient labeling that thoroughly investigates origins.

 
We don't just believe in sustainability; we believe in a 'future' revealed by returning to the source. Continuing from our last discussion, we share the philosophy of Premier Anti-Aging and the development story behind 'immuno,' based on the idea that seeing tomorrow's Earth leads to user satisfaction.
While we use naturally derived ingredients with organic certifications like ECOCERT and COSMOS (natural & organic cosmetic standards), 'immuno' delves even deeper into ingredient selection. For example, we believe it's meaningless to claim a product is paraben-free or alcohol-free if the raw materials themselves were made using parabens or alcohol. However, the more selective we are, the fewer options we have.
"We believe that the effects and efficacy on the skin are only fully realized when we pay attention to every ingredient, including carry-over components*. That's why we meticulously verify origins. For instance, we once discovered that squalane, a solvent used to extract oil-soluble plant extracts, was derived from sharks, and we changed the ingredient accordingly. Many manufacturers claim a component is not included (e.g., displaying 'alcohol-free' if they don't formulate with alcohol itself), even if it's present as a carry-over ingredient from another raw material. We, however, never neglect verification."
* Carry-over refers to 'remaining,' 'lingering,' or 'trace effects.' In this context, it means tracing back to the origin of the raw material's components.
Thorough environmental consideration extends not only to the ingredients but also to the manufacturing of the containers.
 
"We make every effort to use recycled materials and biomass-based resources for our packaging. We select containers while considering the minimization and weight reduction of the materials themselves. For products with small volumes or luxury cosmetics, containers often feature two-part designs or thick walls for decorative purposes. By reducing this ornamentation, we can decrease the amount of plastic used in the packaging. Instead of using a virgin seal on the cosmetic box, we've devised a clever insertion method that eliminates the need for an OPP seal. Even our brand books are made as thin as possible, while maintaining the minimum brand image, such as preventing ink bleed-through. We also limit the use of acrylic panels for in-store displays and use minimally thick, cleverly shaped cosmetic boxes for mail orders to ensure durability."
 
This demonstrates a commitment to environmental consideration not just in the cosmetics themselves, but in everything surrounding them. It seems there are many unique challenges when it comes to cosmetic packaging.
 
"When we propose using recycled materials for container production, manufacturers often state that collecting the raw materials themselves is difficult. Furthermore, creating containers with such materials requires designing new molds, which significantly increases costs and ultimately makes commercialization challenging. We also need to produce mini bottles for samples, so the problems are numerous. There's also the issue of compatibility with the product's ingredients. Since organic, naturally derived ingredients can easily degrade, we conduct basic tests for scent changes under demanding conditions."
This behind-the-scenes development work, carried out day and night, finally brings products to market, reminding us anew of the difficulties in product development. 'immuno,' with over 90% of its ingredients being naturally derived, also has its own development story.
 
"We must approach not only the ingredients but also their effects and efficacy scientifically. While lavender extract and jojoba oil have antioxidant properties for the skin, they might not be organic for concept appeal, or they might contain ingredients we aim to exclude. Conversely, even if a raw material has organic certification, if our tests show it doesn't provide the desired level of hydration or anti-inflammatory effects, we cannot approve it as an ingredient for 'immuno' products. We believe that adhering to these minimum standards is the 'immuno' philosophy."
Simply calling a cosmetic 'sustainable' isn't enough to satisfy users. It must also be functional. To achieve this, ingredient selection is crucial, as Ms. Miyashita explains.
"For example, the efficacy of chamomile varies depending on its origin. That's why we read various research papers. By formulating with meticulous attention to even the unseen components, we prioritize the evidence of functionality, even if it increases the cost price. Cosmetics evolve as we observe a wide range of improvements, such as increased moisture levels based on skin data."
This interview offered a glimpse into the world of cosmetic development. Ms. Miyashita's final words left a lasting impression: 'As you continue to use cosmetics, they eventually become a part of your body, becoming your skin.' Her dedication to the product's contents stems from a deep consideration for the human body. She emphasized her strong desire to enhance the user experience, resolve concerns, and encourage repeat use.
 
For this giveaway from Premier Anti-Aging's 'immuno,' we are offering the 'Immuno Advanced Essence Oil AG (pre-serum oil).' This oil is applied immediately after cleansing and can be used by both men and women. By using oil first, it enhances skin penetration as a 'water-retaining oil.' It forms a protective layer on the skin, improving it from the foundation.
30mL ¥6,500 (excluding tax)
ByRetweet & Follow the relevant tweet from Equally Beautifulwe are giving it away to 5 lucky winners!
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