Finally Arrived: A Full-Scale Launch at the Perfect Moment

──This is a new product two years after the launch of "uka Nail Oil," isn't it?

Actually, when we created the nail oil, we already had discussions about making hand care items too. However, there are already many excellent hand creams on the market, so if we were to make one, it had to be something that would truly satisfy everyone. Therefore, we decided not to rush and to take our time to create something truly good. It did take time. I believed that "texture" was crucial for hand cream, but I couldn't find the ideal texture. My sole focus was on creating something with a superior texture that would delight our customers.

──So, when did you actually start working on it?

We had dinner together after a long time, and while we were chatting about everyday life and catching up, I had that "Aha!" moment (laughs). CHICO had recently opened a new lab in Paris, France. She mentioned that she would be handling manufacturing from now on, so I asked if she could make uka products too. I already had a clear vision in my mind of the finished products – a hand soap like this, a hand cream like that – and as soon as I explained it, CHICO enthusiastically agreed, saying, "That sounds great!" From there, things moved quickly. We immediately began meetings and started prototyping. Timing really is important. I've realized anew that when various elements align, great power is generated.

──Soap, lotion, cream. Did you have these three items in mind from the beginning?

The containers are pump bottles, and the lotion has a light texture so it can be applied multiple times a day. We focused on ease of use, wanting something that looked cute lined up in the washbasin and was simple to apply. I personally found the process of screwing and unscrewing caps on typical creams to be bothersome (laughs), so we settled on this form that can be used with one hand.

Kiho Watanabe on "uka Hand Treatment Spices"

The Making of "Spices" to Brighten Your Everyday (2)

Focus on the Salt in the Soap and the Texture of the Lotion

──How did the product development proceed?

The lotion's purpose was clearly "hydration," and the cream's was "repair." For the lotion, we wanted something light, non-sticky, and highly absorbent. Regarding the cream's repair capabilities, CHICO is an expert in essential oils, so we requested something that could improve chapped hands using the power of plants.

Initially, for the soap, the concept was a clear bottle with a single piece of rock salt inside, which would dissolve as you used it. However, that proved to be quite difficult. We spent months on prototypes, but it just didn't work. The salt wouldn't dissolve cleanly. They eventually told me to give up (laughs).

──I see (laughs).

We also struggled with the lotion's texture. It would feel refreshing and absorb quickly, but achieving that smooth, non-sticky finish took many attempts. It would become smooth, but then start to pill after a while, and it was hard to stabilize. In the end, the lotion took the longest to complete. An unexpected, delightful outcome was the cream's "warming effect." By formulating it to boost metabolism for repair, it improved blood circulation, leading to a warming sensation after application.

The Naming of "Pepper" Lotion Came First

──What about the packaging?

People around me said, "You've made this unisex," but honestly, rather than the design itself, we prioritized where and how it would be placed, and the design is a result of that. Regarding the color, since it's a pump bottle, it would likely be placed next to the washbasin. We hoped it could also be displayed in restaurants, so I imagined it in the restrooms of places I visit, wondering what color would fit (laughs).

Restroom tiles are often white, or wood-toned. To match those, a deep brown seemed appropriate. I think it would blend well not only in the washbasin area but in any room. Hand lotion, used multiple times a day, won't disrupt the interior decor.

──The naming is also unique.

Salt was fine. Butter was good too, but what about Pepper? So, I consulted with CHICO, and she suggested, "How about adding black pepper essential oil?" We had her make a sample, and it had a pleasantly spicy, wonderful aroma. It was decided on the spot.

Wash by gently massaging, and moisturize thoroughly from the back of your hands to your fingertips.

──Could you tell us about any key points for effective use?

Since we were so particular about the textures, I'd first like you to experience them.

The soap, "Salt," dispenses with a slightly jelly-like consistency, but it doesn't immediately create a rich lather. Instead, a fine lather gradually builds up, so rather than washing quickly, massage your hands as you cleanse. After rinsing, your skin will feel slightly tacky, as if you've just emerged from the sea, but it will quickly dry and become smooth. This transformation is the most distinctive feature of Salt.

It becomes so smooth that men who use it say, "I want to wash my face with this too" (laughs). Well, setting aside the face, it's perfectly fine for the body, so if you feel unrefreshed, use it to cleanse yourself (laughs). It also contains sage water, which, like salt, is sometimes used to ward off evil spirits. Hands touch and absorb so many things, so it's important to keep them clean at all times.

For the hand lotion and cream, the application method is key. I've noticed many people first put it in their palm, rub their hands together, and then apply it to the back of their hands. This results in too much product on the palms, making them just sticky. So, first, place it on the back of one hand, then rub the backs of both hands together, and finally, spread any remaining cream from the backs of your hands onto your palms. This way, it's evenly distributed without feeling sticky.

Especially with "Pepper" lotion, which contains natural hyaluronic acid, apply it generously so that the back of your hands become plump and feminine. The black pepper also improves blood circulation, and it contains essential oils beneficial for menopausal symptoms, so extend it all the way to your wrists and arms, and use it as a body lotion.

I really want you to use "Pepper" multiple times after every hand wash. On the other hand, the "Butter" cream is ideal when your hands are particularly chapped or when you want to focus on deep moisturization. Based on argan oil, it contains "Imperatoria," a plant from the Alps known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It provides a rich, buttery moisturizing feel, and applying it generously before bed, as if wearing gloves, is highly effective! It also functions as a nail cream, so be sure to apply it thoroughly to your fingertips.

To Maintain Soft Hands, Daily Care is Essential

──Finally, could you speak about the importance of hand care?

Many people view their hands as mere tools and seem to have resigned themselves to them becoming rough because they use them so much. I was like that myself until recently. But looking back, as a nailist at the salon, I used to apply hand cream to clients, so my hands were always moisturized without me even thinking about it. When I was seeing many clients daily, my hands were always soft. Lately, with more work outside the salon and fewer opportunities to touch clients' hands, my skin has become a bit dry. The difference is immediate. I've realized anew the importance of care, seeing how much it matters.

From touching so many clients' hands, I've noticed that people with soft hands have warm hands. Hands are such a sensitive area where warmth is conveyed, so I believe we should maintain a touch that is comfortable for both others and ourselves. Hands cannot be surgically altered, and they are areas that easily show age, so I truly feel they deserve more care.

Born from that desire, the "uka Hand Treatment Spices" are all easy-to-use items. They might not be necessary for those who consider applying hand cream a given, but they will surely be useful for those who know they should but are too busy or find it a hassle. Please try them.

And for men too! I especially recommend "Pepper" because it's so refreshing. Please consider getting a set for your household.

<uka Hand Treatment Spices>
uka Soap SaltPrice | ¥3,150 (180mL)
A hand & body soap that washes with a refreshing feel, thanks to the gomage effect of sea salt and its fine lather.

uka Lotion PepperPrice | ¥3,990 (180mL)
A milk-type hand & body lotion that leaves skin moist and smooth with its excellent moisturizing effect.

uka Butter Hand & Nail CreamPrice | ¥4,725 (50mL)
A hand & nail cream characterized by a rich, buttery moisturizing feel and a warming sensation.

uka Hand Treatment Spices To GoPrice | ¥5,040 (3-piece set)
A set of mini sizes convenient for carrying.
uka Soap Salt, uka Lotion Pepper (30mL each), uka Butter Hand & Nail Cream (20mL)

uka Tokyo Office
Tel. 03-5775-7828
http://www.uka.co.jp