And it only takes her five minutes every day
For those who are new to skincare or in the midst of switching up their routine, it is easy to feel overwhelmed and lost while figuring out the best steps to follow. The quest for brighter, radiant skin is one that is shared by many—not just skincare aficionados. The internet offers a myriad of skincare advice from all over the world, including multi-step routines that involve everything from cleansing to masking. But sometimes, simplifying your routine is the way to go.
Vicky Tsai, the Taiwanese-American founder of Japanese skincare brand Tatcha, is a firm believer in quick and simple steps in her daily skincare regime. In 2008, Tsai encountered classical beauty rituals in Kyoto that forever altered her life. The pure, natural formulas and philosophy of harmony in Japanese skincare healed her acute dermatitis and helped her regain balance inside and out. The following year, Tatcha was born. As part of building her brand, Tsai convened leading skincare scientists and cultural researchers from Japan to create the Tatcha Institute in Tokyo—the company’s R&D heart.
She shares more about her current skincare rituals below.
Read more: Japanese Dermatologist Dr Mihoko Yokoyama on Why Proper Skincare Should Begin At 3 Years Old
How long do you typically spend on your skincare routine?
Vicky Tsai (VT): Contrary to popular belief, not all Japanese skincare rituals are 10+ steps. Mine takes just five minutes but that time is so precious. Whether I’m starting my day or winding down for the night, that’s my time to reconnect with myself and feel present.
What is your skincare routine like for the day?
VT: I generally follow our Classic Ritual, which was informed by the classical Japanese beauty secrets I was introduced to on one of my first visits to Japan.
- Purify with The Camellia Cleansing Oil: I close my eyes to think of anything in the day that stuck to me, and just let it go with my makeup and the physical residue of the day
- Polish with the Rice Polish: Classic: As I exfoliate, I think about anything during the day that I didn’t hit the mark on and remind myself that I can always begin again. With our skin, as with ourselves, we can always shed the old and start anew.
- Plump with The Essence: As I press the formula in and replenish my skin, I think about replenishing my energy. As women, we spend so much of our time taking care of others that we can deplete ourselves. It’s a reminder to give back to yourself as much as you give to others.
- Nourish with The Silk Cream: As I seal in moisture for my last step, I envision also sealing myself into a cocoon of care that’s given to me by the people in my life. This reminds me that for all I give throughout the day, there are always people who are caring for me in return.
What is your skincare routine for the night?
VT: Same as above.