December is when illuminations shine in the city, snow starts falling all over Japan, and it's getting really cold. It's Shiwasu. The origin of the word "Shiwasu" has been passed down since the Heian period as a busy time when monks are running around for Buddhist ceremonies, but the exact origin is unknown. Also, in mid-December, there is the winter solstice on the 22nd (Thursday), the shortest day and longest night of the year. Since that day, the days get longer and longer, so it is also a turning point where the transition to spring, the bright season, progresses steadily. Why not take the winter solstice as a positive one, not as a time of harsh cold, but as a time to welcome the warm spring?
December is a time when there are more opportunities to eat and drink, such as year-end parties and Christmas. The spread of COVID-19 is also on the rise again, so we must not let our guard down. In 2023, let's continue to deal with COVID-19, but let's start afresh with renewed spirits!
A look back at world news in 2022
February
・Shogi player Fujii Sota becomes the first teenager to win five titles ・Russia invades Ukraine ・Beijing Olympics held ・6th wave of COVID-19 hits
April
・Tourist boat sinks off the coast of Shiretoko ・Professional baseball player Roki Sasaki pitches perfect game for Lotte
July
・Former Prime Minister Abe shot to death ・Figure skater Yuzuru Hanyu retires and turns professional ・Seventh wave of COVID-19 hits
September
Queen Elizabeth dies
October
・Chinese President Xi Jinping to a third term
November
・Is this the eighth wave of COVID-19?
・Japan defeats Germany in group stage of FIFA World Cup
December
・Is this the eighth wave of COVID-19?
・Japan defeats powerful Spain in the group stage of the FIFA World Cup, becoming the first Asian country to reach the quarterfinals in two consecutive tournaments
There have been many news stories this year that have shaken the world, but many people have been inspired by the achievements of athletes in the sports world, such as the Beijing Olympics and the FIFA World Cup. Why not take a look back at the news of 2022 and think back to yourself at that time to organize the past year?
There's not much time left in 2022. We're looking forward to seeing what additional news we can expect, and hope for some positive news that will make us feel optimistic for 2023.
Get to know your skin!
How was your skin condition? Determine your skin condition and see what changes have occurred over the past year. Check below!
● My skin was in good condition throughout the year. ● There was a time when my skin was rough. ● There was a time when I was troubled by acne and pimples. ● I have developed or have more spots. ● I am starting to notice fine lines or feel like they have increased. ● I feel like my skin has become less elastic and soft.
If your skin was in good condition throughout the year, continue your current skin care routine into 2023. If several of these apply to you, take a good look at your skin and find a skin care routine that suits it.
Basics of skin type
There are four well-known skin types: normal skin, oily skin, dry skin, and combination skin.
①Normal skin
It has little sebum and a lot of moisture. It has fine texture and shine, and the keratin metabolism is healthy. It refers to a healthy skin condition where the barrier function is working normally and skin troubles are unlikely to occur. However, carelessness is the enemy. Skin tends to become dry in winter and oily in summer, so skin care according to the season is required.
②Oily skin
There is a lot of sebum compared to water, and pores are easily noticeable. Since your skin is prone to acne and breakouts, you need to be careful to thoroughly wash away makeup and sebum dirt from deep within your pores with a cleansing product or face wash. You also need to review your diet, such as avoiding oily foods.
3) Dry skin
This refers to skin with little sebum and moisture, which makes it dry and rough. Furthermore, the barrier function is not fully maintained, making the skin prone to skin problems. Incorporate not only moisturizing products, but also skin care products with moisturizing and water-retaining functions into your daily skin care routine.
4. Combination skin (dry and oily combination)
This type of skin has different skin conditions, with some areas of the face producing more sebum and others less. In many cases, the center of the face is oily and the outside is dry, so be careful when cleansing and washing your face. In addition, use plenty of lotion that has both moisturizing and hydrating properties to improve the moisture content of your skin.
Skin types fluctuate, change, and blend together, so make it a habit to determine your current skin type!
Skin quality fluctuates and changes with seasonal changes, disruptions to daily life rhythms, and various environmental changes. By closely understanding the changes in your skin and adapting your skincare routine to your skin's condition, you can enhance and maintain the true power of your skin.
What did you think about "Looking back on 2022 and reexamining the condition of your skin"?
By assessing your skin condition at the end of the year, you may be able to have better skin in 2023. May the new year be a good one for you and bring you good skin.
The next topic will be our annual "Skin Care Calendar."
