November is called "Shimotsuki" in the lunar calendar, and November 7th is "Ritto", literally the beginning of the frost season, and marks the beginning of winter. It is also an event month, with November 15th being Shichigosan and November 18th being the release date of Beaujolais Nouveau. Incidentally, Beaujolais Nouveau is airlifted from France to Japan in advance, making Japan the first country in the world to enjoy Beaujolais Nouveau, and making it a unique event. Apparently, one quarter of Beaujolais Nouveau shipped is destined for Japan.
The COVID-19 situation is showing signs of calming down, and requests for restaurants to refrain from serving alcohol and shortening business hours are gradually being lifted, giving the impression that we are slowly returning to our pre-COVID-19 daily lives. We want to continue taking preventative measures to avoid being hit by a sixth wave, while still enjoying the events in November.
Here are some beauty tips for November.
Skin condition in November as seen from the autumn leaves front
Last year in Tokyo, the leaves began to change color on November 28th. However, there was a period of warm weather just before that, so the leaves changed color a little late.
The time when the leaves change color is greatly influenced by the weather and climate. When temperatures are low, the leaves change color earlier, and when temperatures are high, the leaves change color later. The timing when the temperatures stay low and the leaves start to change color marks the beginning of "winter," so pay attention to when the leaves start to change color in your area. Be aware of the onset of winter as nature signals it in your area, and shift your skin care routine to winter-friendly conditions.
The key to winter skin care is "enhanced moisturization"
As temperatures drop and the air becomes drier, the amount of moisture evaporating from your skin increases in November. Before the leaves start to change color, start strengthening your moisturizing routine and start winter skin care.
1. Hydrating your skin <br data-mce-fragment="1">Moisture is an essential ingredient for producing collagen, which is the source of beautiful skin. It is important to choose cosmetics that focus on their hydrating power.
2. Maintaining NMF (Natural Moisturizing Factors) in the stratum corneum <br data-mce-fragment="1">During the skin's turnover process, NMF (Natural Moisturizing Factors) produced within the body are responsible for absorbing moisture from the air and retaining it within the body. With the start of the dry season, hydrating cosmetics can help NMF to properly absorb moisture.
3. Compensating for the decline in the function of the sebum film <br data-mce-fragment="1">The sebum film, which is the outermost layer of the epidermis, is a cream-like substance made from secreted sebum. It prevents the evaporation of moisture from within the stratum corneum and protects the skin from various external stressors. During this season, sebum secretion continues to decrease, so a moisturizing cream that compensates for the decline in the function of the sebum film is essential.
Expected effects of polyphenols
In honor of the release date of Beaujolais Nouveau on Thursday, November 18th, we will be sharing information about polyphenols, which are found in large amounts in red wine.
Polyphenols have long been used as flavorings and pigments in food and cosmetics. In the past few decades, research reports on the antioxidant effects of polyphenols have been published, and the concept of "polyphenols = antioxidants = anti-aging" has become established. There are also many research reports on their other effects, such as cancer prevention and arteriosclerosis inhibition.
Besides red wine, coffee is also rich in polyphenols, and according to the Standard Tables of Food Composition in Japan, it has been reported that coffee contains more polyphenols per cup than red wine. Using cosmetics containing ingredients containing polyphenols and getting into the habit of drinking red wine and coffee are also recommended for beauty. However, whether it's red wine or coffee, drinking too much of it can cause other adverse effects, so enjoy it in moderation!
We have given you some tips for your beauty routine in November. The next theme will be "Finish off with some pampering care."
