Japanese skincare has long fascinated the fashion and modeling world, and for good reason. From top models to beauty influencers, the meticulous routines of Japanese women inspire anyone in the modeling industry who values radiant, healthy skin. THE CARE, a digital concept store founded by Franco-Japanese talent scout Yume Hadida, brings these rituals to Europe. Drawing from her experience in talent scouting for models and model agencies, Yume emphasizes that well-being begins with the pleasure of the senses. Her philosophy resonates not only with everyday skincare enthusiasts but also with professionals in modeling who understand that skin is part of a model’s canvas.

1. Oil-based makeup removal

Japanese women have long favored oil-based makeup removal, a habit many French women are only now discovering. For models, whose faces must remain flawless under studio lights and camera flashes, gentle oil cleansing preserves the skin’s natural balance. Unlike harsh micellar waters, oil removes impurities without clogging pores, making it ideal for sensitive, oily, or combination skin. Model agencies often encourage new models to adopt these habits early, as consistency in cleansing can significantly affect skin health and appearance on shoots.

2. Daily facial massage

Facial massage is a cornerstone of Japanese beauty routines. Observing her mother, a model herself, Yume recalls nightly massages that kept the skin supple and the face naturally lifted. Daily massage improves circulation, stimulates muscles, and slows visible signs of aging. Many models now include Kobido massage in their routine, a precise Japanese technique taught in certified institutes. For model agencies, promoting such self-care routines among models enhances long-term skin resilience, ensuring they look radiant both on and off the runway.

3. The use of lotion

Lotion or toner is a key step in Japanese skincare, often overlooked in the West. Applied after cleansing, it balances the skin’s pH and primes it for other treatments. Models who spend long hours under makeup or in changing climates can benefit from this step, which helps maintain hydration and skin texture. Model agencies advising their talents on skincare increasingly recommend incorporating toners to optimize skin health and longevity in the industry.

4. Using a serum

Serums are a Japanese skincare essential, with formulas tailored to specific skin concerns. From anti-aging collagen serums to salicylic acid treatments for blemishes, Japanese women invest in high-performance serums rather than relying solely on moisturizers. In modeling, where skin imperfections are magnified on camera, targeted serum use can make a dramatic difference. Agencies often encourage models to explore serums to maintain a polished, camera-ready complexion.

5. Matcha: a natural superfood

More than a beverage, matcha is a traditional Japanese superfood with antioxidant properties that support overall skin health. Models and those in the modeling industry have embraced matcha not only for its internal benefits but also as a topical ingredient in masks and creams. By helping eliminate toxins and support cellular health, matcha contributes to a natural, youthful glow that models need for demanding photoshoots. Model agencies increasingly recognize the value of nutrition alongside skincare, advising talents to adopt holistic habits for optimal skin performance.

Adopting these five Japanese beauty reflexes can transform a model’s skin, giving them the radiance and vitality that agencies and photographers seek. For anyone in modeling, from aspiring models to seasoned professionals, these routines combine tradition, science, and sensorial pleasure—proving that true beauty lies in both consistency and care.