Have you ever heard of yuzu? It is a type of Japanese citrus fruit. Yuzu is not really an ingredient known well outside of Japan. It was brought over to Japan from China during the Nara Period (710-794). Yuzu are rarely eaten as a fruit, but it’s juice and zest are often used in Japanese cuisine. It’s flavour is both both tart and very fragrant.
But, yuzu has more uses beyond culinary! In the past the seeds were also used for medicinal purposes to treat skin irritations. Now, the seeds are sometimes used for exfoliation. Yuzu are also used in a special hot bath in winter as yuzu are fully ripened during November and December.
Yuzu baths are traditionally taken on Toji (冬至) which is the Japanese word for winter solstice- the shortest day of the year. The tradition of yuzu baths derive from the belief that taking it wards off colds and it soothes chapped winter skin. The essential oil component in yuzu- nomilin helps aid in relaxation making yuzu a perfect pair with a soothing, warm bath on a cold, winter's day. Also the organic acids in yuzu are believed to help muscle aches.
But that’s not all of yuzu’s goodness. It’s full of antioxidants which is great for cell rejuvenation. Yuzu is also rich in vitamin C. In fact, it has 3 times more vitamin C than lemons! Vitamin C helps limit the damage of UV rays as well as aiding the body’s production of collagen which is required for supple skin. Making yuzu an amazing ingredient in skincare. Yuzu extract is in both our Repair Serum and Revitaliisng Moisturiser. Try now and get the benefits of yuzu for yourself now!
]]>Here at Gensen we decided what better way to share the love this Valentine’s day than to share the story of the day of love itself. Sure, we are all happily familiar with the general concept of love but, how are we supposed to celebrate something of which we have no understanding? Not very well, if you ask me.
So, I am going to tell you a story. And, while I do, think to yourself, what am I doing this Valentine’s day to keep the love wheels turning in my relationships?
Yes, here at Gensen, we certainly agree that giving a gift of luxury, like our one of a kind Gensen products, is a good way to start. But while doing so, perhaps this year you can share this special story of love and find your way to continue your romance year-round in true Valentine spirit. Here we go.
Once upon a time an emperor by the name of Claudius II Gothicus, ruled the Roman Empire. Consumed with bloodlust and the promise of glory by warfare, his passion was for death and destruction.
Never satisfied by the numbers of enlisted soldiers, in a fit of impulsive rage, the emperor now coined Claudius the Cruel, cancelled all marriages and engagements in Rome. As many sought the company of love, a feat which a man with no heart could not understand, Claudius was under the belief that love was the reason men did not leave their homes to fight.
Disgusted by Claudius’s tirade, a Christian priest by the name of Valentine began to secretly marry those who still sought the warmth of love and matrimony.Don’t forget to spread the love, and adore your radiant other half with all the capacity of your heart. After all, it’s all our love that’s gone into the products we bring to you so, where is yours going?
Find our products at https://www.gensenjapan.com/collections/all
]]>
Have you taken enough time off and showed your body enough care and love over the busy holiday season?
A natural way of rejuvenating skincare rituals by compacting Japanese Hot spring waters along with carefully handpicked natural ingredients
]]>The second month into 2018 already! Time flies....
February is the month of love, and what could be more important than treating yourself and your body with a bit more care this month. Here at Gensen we believe it is the perfect month for you to focus on yourself, preparing yourself for the busy year ahead.
We believe that time is precious and living in such a fast-paced world, we try our best to combine and regenerate skincare rituals that are suitable for our current lifestyle. For many years traditional Japanese skincare rituals have been passed down and modified to achieve the ultimate result of naturally glowing skin without dedicating hours on top of our current schedules.
For many centuries, Japanese hot springs have been known for having relaxing and curative properties of mineral-rich waters. Gensen Japan wishes to share these natural ways of rejuvenating skincare rituals by compacting Japanese Hot spring waters along with carefully handpicked natural ingredients like Yuzu and Soybean for individuals like you to ultimately experience the same benefits as those in Japan.
To make it even better, our products contain a UV scattering agent that reflects both UVA and UVB rays which is water soluble. This allows our products to be lightweight and watery, making Gensen one of the only brands that provide sun protection without leaving that greasy white residue on your skin.
It comes as no surprise that with a change of season and change of year, stress has begun to rise and the ever-increasing mountain of problems have begun to threaten us with problem skin. But what is a Gensen girl to do?!
At the risk of a cliché’, for us at Gensen it is all about balance this 2018. With plans to maintain proper nutrition, downtime, sleep and skincare, making little changes in routine will help us navigate safely through the challenging waters of a new year.
Reduction in time does not mean reduction of self-maintenance. If short on time, one must remember peak performance comes from peak competence. Efforts to include just ten minutes a day to meditate or read, listen to music or simply sit at one’s desk can provide the re-energisation you need to complete the last paper you did not think you could get done by a day’s end. Remember to invest in yourself ladies. Try incorporating a short morning exercise, a new way to eat a proper, healthy breakfast while on the move, one day a week you would go to bed earlier than usual… there is no saying how many amazing things we busy women can achieve when feeling good about ourselves.
While all this is important and stress, sleep and nutrition do have a direct link to the health of our skin, it is crucial to remember to wrap up the day with a skincare routine. Wherever you go, there is no more direct way to create healthy, glowing skin.
It does not have to be complicated, it does not have to be long, just a quick cleanse and re-hydration of the skin with a product can be the one difference to maintaining that healthier complexion each beautiful woman deserves. Only made of a two-step process, at Gensen, this is what our handy, travel sized serum and moisturiser can do for you.
It is time to shine Gensen girl.
]]>
Whilst the New Year can be thought of as a turning point for some or a starting point to a life-long aspiration it can become a bit daunting for others. In addition to the post-holiday slump and the extended 'resting' period from all the parties and end of year projects, it may increase our anxiety when we find ourselves struggling to keep our resolutions by February or March or even late January. And more often than not we find ourselves frustrated at the failed resolutions which can make your following months feel even more hopeless.
However, may reading this serve as a constant reminder to you that the New Year isn't meant to serve as a catalyst for any momentous character changes, what it should be is a time for people to reflect on the past year and plan to make small positive lifestyle changes.
As a wise woman once said "Setting small, attainable goals throughout the year, instead of a singular, overwhelming goal on January 1 can help you reach whatever it is you strive for," (Psychologist Lynn Bufka). What's most important is not the extent or greatness of the resolution but making it realistic so that you have greater chances of keeping it throughout the year, and once you recognise it as a lifestyle change that is important, you can work towards it one step at a time.
These tips are only some guidelines to help you make more effective changes for the new year. But whatever happens, the most important tip to follow is to never give up on yourself because progress can only happen with change, even if it is just a change in mindset.
In the West, Christmas is usually spent with family and New Years with friends. However, in Japan it is often the reverse. During the time leading up to New Years, many return to their hometown.
Before New Year’s Day
One New Year custom in Japan is Osoji (大掃除), literally meaning big cleaning, where the whole family comes together to clean the entire house. It is usually done sometime in late December to New Years.
It derived from the custom of Susuharai (煤払い) during the Edo Era (1603 - 1863). Susuharai translates to cleaning of the soot, a practice done on 13th December whereby people would perform purification rituals to ward off any evil or disaster to welcome Toshigami (年神) or New Year Deities.
Together, the family will make osechi ryori (御節料理) which refers to the selection of Japanese New Year foods, often served in a 3 or four layer bento box for the family to share. Each ingredient is carefully prepared and often are processed in a way so that they don’t need to be refrigerated. This is because the tradition of osechi ryoru dates back to the Heian Era (794 – 1185). Each food item represents a particular wish for the new year, though the foods vary vastly region to region.
Kadomatsu (門松) are decorations made out of pine, bamboo and plum tress. They are put up after Christmas until 7th January and are believed to provide temporary housing for deities to ensure a prosperous year ahead. Pine, bamboo and plum symbolise longevity, prosperity and sturdiness.
New Year’s Eve
In Australia, we have fireworks at midnight to celebrate New Years. In Japan, there is Joya no Kane (除夜の鐘) which is the ringing of the Buddhist temple bells. The bells are struck exactly 108 times, as Buddhism believes there are 108 earthly desires and thus each strike will remove one from you.
Toshikoshi soba (年越し蕎麦) is the Japanese custom of eating soba (buckwheat noodles) on Christmas Eve which became common practice in the Edo Period (1603 – 1868). There are many theories as to why soba exactly for example one is the long, thin shape of the noodles represents a long and healthy life. Or that, because soba has a firm texture that can be bitten off easily, it symbolises the cutting away of the past years misfortunes. Therefore, some believe that its bad luck to eat toshikoshi soba at midnight, as you can’t break off the past year misfortunes properly as the old year turns into the new.
Welcoming the New Year
Similar to sending Christmas cards, in Japan they send postcards called nengajo (年賀状). They generally arrive on 1st January and are sent to friends and family friends. They often feature designs of the upcoming zodiac year. This year is the year of the Dog.
Hatsumode (初詣) is the first visit to a shrine or temple during the first couple days of January to pray for a fortunate year ahead. There is actually a set conduct- first, throw some coins into the offering box, ring the bell using the ropes hanging down, bow twice, clap hands in front of the chest and bow one last time.
]]>This may surprise you but Christmas Day isn’t actually a public holiday in Japan. Christmas Eve is actually more widely celebrated than Christmas Day. It is often thought of as a couple’s holiday much like Valentine’s Day. It is especially popular with young couples to go to a romantic restaurant, exchange gifts and go on a night-time stroll. Christmas lights are big part of Japan’s festive season and many public parks and landmarks put up elaborate illuminations.
As such, Christmas presents tend to only be exchanged between couples and very close friends. This is because Japan already have their own year-end gift-giving custom called oseibo (お歳暮). They are given as thanks to people that have done you kindness during the year including colleagues, bosses, teachers and family friends.
In the West, most variations of Christmas cake are usually ones with baked with an array of dried fruit. However, in Japan Christmas cake refers to strawberry shortcakes (though they are also popular as birthday cakes). A strawberry shortcake is a layered cake with rum-soaked genoise sponge filled with fresh strawberries and chantilly cream.
]]>We’re all after the never-ending quest for “good skin”. This means something different for everyone, some want clearer skin, some more luminous, some want to decrease visible signs of aging or a combination of thereof. However, there is one common thread in achieving those goals. That is- water- the real secret to great skin.
>Why you should care about water
Water keeps the skin supple, smooth and facilitates detoxification. Drinking enough water daily is important for overall health. But what about the health of your skin?
Drinking water gives you a radiant, healthy, younger- looking complexion. Skin is an organ, and just like any other part of the body your skin is made up of cells which are made up of water. Without water, the organs will not function properly or at their best. So if your skin is dehydrated, it shows- by turning your skin dry, tight and flaky. Dry skin is less resilient and is more prone to wrinkles.
As water is lost in large quantities every day, you need to replace it somehow. The unfortunate truth about drinking water and skin is that water will reach all the other organs before it reaches the skin. So, it’s important to topically apply water to our skin and lock in the hydration. This will not only show a visible difference in skin texture, but it can prevent wrinkles as well.
3 tips for the most effective hydration (that’s also oil-free!)
1) Apply a product containing hyaluronic acid prior to your moisturizer
Hyaluronic acid holds 1,000 times its own weight in water, thus attracting water to the skin and holding it
there. Gensen products have hyaluronic acid in them, eliminating the extra step!
2) Apply a hydrating moisturizer within 2 minutes of leaving the bath or shower
The skin is still porous from the heat and thus allows better absorption of products. Our signature water-based formula has a specially formulated 2-step system where the serum will be absorbed quickly to treat the skin and the moisturiser will hydrate and seal in the moisture.
3) Drink more water
Drinking at least 8 glasses a day will help rid the body and skin of toxins. It doesn’t necessarily hydrate the skin per se, but by clearing the body of toxins leading to more radiant skin- and that is always a bonus.
]]>Soybeans are rather unassuming and bland, however they contain a myriad of health benefit for both the skin and body!
The power of the soybean in 5 parts!
Soybeans are full of protein which boosts your metabolism and overall systems as protein is the building blocks of your body. So they are great for weight management.
Soybeans are high in vitamins and minerals like calcium, magnesium, copper and zinc which are important players in the recovery and growth of bones. This is extremely important, as our bones deteriorate and become more brittle as we age,
Copper and iron are essential in forming red blood cells. When we have enough red blood cells, that is when blood circulation can function at its optimum level.
Adequate fiber is the key for digestive health and is the most common element lacking in people’s diet nowadays.
Soybeans are full of anti oxidants which is why soybean extract is a key ingredient in Gensen products. For more information about anti oxidants and why they so good for you check out our in-depth posts HERE
Soybeans - the building blocks of the Japanese Diet
The Japanese Diet has long been known as one of the healthiest in the world as it is heavily focused on fresh seasonal produce and is mostly made up of vegetables and seafood.
But did you know? Soybeans are actually in pretty much every Japanese meal in some form.
The most well known soy product is tofu, but there are actually many other soy products that form the basis of Japanese cuisine.
First off, both soy sauce and miso are made from soybeans. They are key flavourings in Japanese cooking and are pretty much ‘pantry staples’. Natto are fermented soybeans that are famous for their less than appetising smell. They are very divisive, with both Japanese and non-Japanese people. However, they are extremely nutritious. Something less well known is kinako which is a flour made up of ground, dried soybeans. They are very fragrant and are used in various traditional Japanese confectionary (wagashi) like warabi mochi.
]]>It’s easy to buy more (especially when retail therapy is so effective!). But it can get to the point where you own so much that it starts to stress you out. And that can occur without you even realising it. That’s why regularly getting rid of things you aren’t using can be beneficial for mental health.
Why is it called spring cleaning?
In the past in Northern America and Europe, a major cleaning was done in spring because it was warm enough to open windows (but not so warm that insects would be a problem). Also there was enough wind to blow away the dust.
In Japan, they have Osoji (大掃除), literally meaning big cleaning which is usually done sometime in late December to New Years. It derived from the custom of Susuharai (煤払い) during the Edo Era (1603 - 1863). Susuharai translates to cleaning of the soot, a practice done on 13th December whereby people would perform purification rituals to ward off any evil or disaster to welcome Toshigami (年神) or New Year Deities.
Beauty products expires and ingredients can become unstable and irritate the skin. Therefore, regularly throwing out or sanitising products is so important. People are always being told they need to add something extra to their skincare routine, and it can become overwhelming and confusing. In actuality, it’s not the number of steps, it’s just about using well-formulated products and regularly taking time to care for the skin, This just means, cleansing, using UV protection and effective skincare everyday. That’s why Gensen has an easy no-fuss 2-step system that is as simple as it is effective. The serum is a fast-acting treatment to repair the skin and the moisturiser hydrates and seals in all the goodness.
Spring is one of the best times to enjoy the outdoors. However, you may find that being in the sun, any skin pigmentation (whether it be age, spots, freckles or acne scars) flare up becoming darker. However, there is something you can do about it without staying locked indoors all the time!
5 ways to decreasing skin pigmentation
>use UV protection (always!)
I’m sure you know much of skin pigmentation is caused by the sun- more specifically they are caused by UVA rays. But did you know UVA remains constant all year round? That’s why daily UV protection is so important (even if it’s cloudy). By protecting your skin from UV rays, it stops age spots from becoming darker and prevents new ones from forming.
>use products with skin nourishing ingredients to increase cell renewal
By increasing your cell renewal system, it’s effectively improving your skin’s natural healing ability. This works to increase the rate at which skin cells are shed and then replaced to diminish pigmentation and other other signs of skin aging like fine lines and a dull complexion.
>use AHA’s
This type of exfoliation works on the surface layer of skin to refine the skin's texture and appearance. For an information on AHA’s, we have an in-depth post about all the different types exfoliation HERE
>salon treatments
If you want something more potent many salons offer pigmentation solutions including laser treatments, microdermabrasion and chemical peels.
Many salon treatments leave the skin sensitive afterwards, so make sure to use UV protection daily, otherwise you risk having the pigmentation made worse. Gensen has a gentle water-based formula, so it is perfect after any sort of treatment that leaves the skin sensitive. Iodine has antibacterial and anti inflammatory properties, which will also soothe the skin. Iodine also has amazing healing properties which can also diminish skin pigmentation. That’s the onsen water we use is so amazing!
]]>There are now so many types of exfoliating products out, it’s easy to get confused- especially with all the technical jargon being thrown about. In true Gensen style, we want to make it simple for you!
Physical exfoliants
Physical exfoliators are the ones with a grainy texture that relies on the motion of rubbing the product to exfoliate the skin Generally, the larger the exfoliating particles, the harsher the exfoliation. Therefore, be careful not to rub too hard.
We would not recommend physical exfoliators to those with sensitive or mature skin, as they would be too harsh.
Chemical exfoliants
Chemical exfoliators are just applied on the skin and require no extra work on your part (minus washing them off if needed). There are a couple of types:
>AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid)
There are two main types- Glycolic and Lactic Acid. They both work on the skin in similar ways. AHAs work on the surface of the skin, improving skin texture, reducing fine lines and hyperpigmentation. They are often watery, toner-like solutions that do not need to be washed off.
They are suitable for all skin types though, they are very formula dependant (as the percentage of Glycolic and Lacitic Acid can differ).
>BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acid)
Aka Salicylic Aid, which can actually penetrate the skin to clear out pores. So they tend to be stronger than AHAs and usually do need to be washed off.
BHAs are amazing for acne prone and congested skin. If you have sensitive or mature skin, we recommend doing a patch test and maybe leaving it on for a shorter period of time.
>Enzyme
Often with fruit enzymes, they are gentle water-activated exfoliators. As such, they are best for sensitive or mature skin.
>Retinol
An amazing skin exfoliant and anti-aging ingredient- they have been a key feature ingredient in many products. Obviously, best for mature skin, regular use of retinol products have shown to improve signs of photoaging and regular aging over time.
]]>Ever wondered how Gensen feels so lightweight, so silky and so easily absorbed with no oily residue?
The secret is - Plat Ceria! A new generation ingredient!
So what exactly is Plat Ceria?
Plat Ceria actually refers to the rare earth mineral Cerium Oxide that is coated with Platinum. The platinum is there to prevent oxidisation. Think of an apple, after it’s been cut it goes brown- a sign of oxidisation.
Cerium Oxide is a UV scattering ingredient that protects the skin against both UVA and UVB rays. It’s also the only natural UV protecting ingredient that is water soluble! So unlike many other natural UV protection that are oil-based, Gensen’s products are oil-free!
Because Gensen is water-based (actually onsen water-based), daily UV protection has never been easier! Especially formulated for those with sensitive skin or acne-prone skin that doesn’t react well with traditional UV protection. Gensen is natural, effective and full of skin-restoring ingredients to simplify your skincare routine!
]]>You hear us going on about onsen all the time, but what exactly are they? Onsen (温泉) are natural hot springs. Because Japan is a volcanic island, it has numerous onsen which each have their own unique properties and benefits. Many Japanese people will travel great distances to experience different onsen. The onsen water we use is from Miyazaki, which has iodine. You may know iodine as the brownish sticky substance used on cuts and scrapes. It has anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties so it is great for treating blemishes. But it also soothes and heals dry, irritated skin too!
A ryokan (旅館) is a traditional Japanese inn. They are often built near onsen, so people stay the night when going to the onsen. They are a chance to experience traditional Japanese lifestyle and local specialties.
Traditional Japanese rooms are floored with tatami (畳) mats which are thick, woven straw.
As such, indoor slippers are worn to prevent damage them as they were very expensive in the past- a luxury only the wealthy could afford. Tatami are also used as a form of measurement for the size a room
Another distinctive feature of traditional Japanese rooms are paper sliding doors called shoji (障子). Because, traditionally, the Japanese use low tables, people sit on the floor on cushions called zabuton (座布団).
Dinner served at ryokan are usually a kaiseki (懐石) which is a traditional multi-course Japanese meal. It showcases a range of skills and techniques making it similar to haute cuisine in the West. There’s a strong focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients, and at ryokan they often feature local specialties.
In Japan, people to onsen as a form of "maintenance" for overall health. The restorative water has a myriad of benefits healing both the inside and outside. These benefits have been previously limited to Japan. Until now! Make onsen part of your skincare ritual with Gensen.
]]>>Why Your Skin Gets Dry
Essentially, dry skin is the sign of the skin’s surface becoming disrupted and steadily dismantled. Genetics, environmental damage, sun damage from accumulated unprotected sun exposure, climate influences, your health, or a combination of those factors. The type of skincare products you use can also be a cause if they contain harsh or drying ingredients that disturb skin’s surface.
Regardless, the result is that your skin can’t maintain its normal moisture level.
Your course of action?
To re-establish skin’s surface so it can stay perfectly hydrated. When you start providing your skin what it needs to remain intact and smooth, it will better be able to stay hydrated.
>How to Restore Hydration to Skin
Since the core issue of dry skin is a broken surface, the goal is to put it back together again and stop doing things that tear it apart. Drenching skin in replenishing and skin-restoring ingredients is the key to hydrating the building blocks of skin. These blocks hold skin together just like mortar holds bricks, keeping precious moisture where it’s supposed to be so skin visibly improves.
How to break the cycle of dry skin!
1) Hydrate with Water
You’re often told to use oil-based products on dry skin. However, oil only hydrates the top layer of the skin. Water is more dense, so it hydrates your skin at a deeper level to provide longer-lasting hydration. Look for products with hyaluronic acid for that extra boost in moisture as it attracts and holds on to water to keep your skin free of dryness. Gensen doesn’t use any old water, we use onsen water from Japan! It’s full of minerals and iodine to heal and hydrate dry, irritated skin.
2) UV protection, ALWAYS
It only takes one minute of unprotected sun exposure to start chipping away at your skin’s surface stability. When skin is compromised from repeated, unprotected sun exposure, it slowly but surely negatively affects its ability to hold moisture, feel smooth, not to mention the wrinkles and changes to skin tone that develop.
3) Nourish the skin
Antioxidants, skin- replenishing and restoring ingredients are all the crucial elements skin needs to reconstruct itself, hold on to water, and feel supremely smooth and radiant. More information about antioxidants and how they benefit the skin.
4) Exfoliate
By removing the top layer of dead skin cells, the skin can better concentrate on hydrating the newer skin cells. This also allows your skincare products to be better absorbed and thus more work more effectively.
6) Be aware of your environment
Constant exposure to dry environments, cold weather, or low-humidity air from heaters or air conditioners can also be problematic because they damage the skin’s protective surface. Using a humidifier at home can make a world of difference. Gensen’s moisturiser has squalene which shields your skin from such harsh conditions to lock in the moisture.
]]>Dry skin brushing is exactly what it sounds- brushing your body with a dry brush, like the one above. The brush is run towards the heart. Use a long handled brush with natural bristles (as synthetic ones are too harsh on the skin).
But why should you do it?
> Exfoliation
This will be the first difference you feel when dry brushing. Your skin will immediately feel smoother and softer. Skin is the largest organ in the human body and is just like your kidney, liver and colon which are the body’s way of eliminating waste. Approximately one third of the body’s daily impurities are removed through the skin. By removing dead skin cells and clearing pores, dry brushing aids this cleansing process, which brings us to the next point.
> Lymphatic support
The lymphatic system is responsible for removing cellular waste and thus plays a huge part of our immune system as the buildup of toxins causes various ailments. The lymph system isn’t like the blood system which has the heart pumping it throughout the body; it purely relies on the muscles. Dry brushing can help lymph flow and thus is a great way of detoxing the body.
>Improved blood circulation
Dry brushing helps stimulate and improve blood circulation, so it is great for relieving muscle tension. This is because, by getting the blood to the fatigued muscles, helps repair and restore them.
> Cellulite is smoothed over
The movement of dry brushing can soften the hardened fat deposits under the skin which improves the appearance of cellulite. The increase in blood circulation also helps in treating cellulite.
]]>Part 1 covered why you may still be getting acne as an adult. What next?
>Don’t pop them (seriously)
You hear it all the time, and you know it, but sometimes the temptation is too great to resist. But, it increases the likelihood of scarring and spreads the infection
>Don’t use alcohol based/drying products
Many products for oily and acne prone skin have alcohol and other drying products in them. They may feel nice, but they actually irritate the skin and make the problem worse.
>Exfoliate with care
Exfoliation is great for the skin, but when you have acne or breakouts, be careful as you don’t want to pop any pimples. This is more of a concern for those who use scrub based exfoliators as opposed to AHA/BHA exfoliants.
>Don’t stress
Excessive stress can cause hormonal imbalances which can cause acne and breakouts. Don’t worry, Gensen is here. How does Gensen’s products help treat acne? The onsen (natural hot springs) water we use is from Miyazaki, Southern Japan. What’s special about this particular water has iodine which has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties to help soothe and heal acne as well as discourage the formation of future breakouts.
By hydrating with water, your skin will be hydrated without feeling oily which will help balance your skin over time. This means, there’s less oil to clog pores and form pimples. The antioxidants in the soybean and yuzu extract in our serum and moisturiser will accelerate cell renewal which will help fade any acne scars faster!
Now's the time! Sample Gensen now and experience the skin-restoring powers of onsen water!
]]>Acne as a teenager is very common and many of us are relieved once that turbulent time is over and leave behind days of stressful pimple popping and overuse blackhead removing strips (DON’T use these, they are so bad for the skin and often worsen the issue).
So it is extremely annoying when faced with acne as an adult. There’s no assurance that it will go away with time (as it usually does with teens), making it even more stressful.
Top reasons for acne and breakouts as an adult
>Pore-clogging products
They trap the oil underneath the skin which results in breakouts. The most common ingredient to look out for is mineral oil. Look for products that are marked as non-comedogenic which means that there are no pore-clogging ingredients inside.
>Diet
This varies for everyone- some people might find that diet plays a huge role in maintaining good skin, while some not at all. Unfortunately, it can be hard to tell the exact diet factors that show visible results in the skin except tracking what you eat, when acne or breakouts flare up or trying to decrease certain foods or food groups and see the effect on the skin. However, everyone will benefit from minimising the amount of processed food eaten and including more whole foods.
>Other lifestyle factors
Namely, stress, sleep and hormonal imbalance. They are often interrelated and have a huge impact on the skin beyond acne and breakouts. It affects skin luminosity, dryness and redness just to name a few. Try and take at least 10 minutes out of your day to relax and have time for yourself. Sometimes you feel that you are so busy you don’t have time to take a break and that is many of us. However, often taking that break will refresh your mind and increase productivity.
>Dirty makeup brushes
Make sure to regularly clean your makeup brushes and sponges. Otherwise, bacteria accumulates which lead to breakouts and other skin irritations when used.
>Makeup
Certain ingredients in makeup such as silicone result in breakouts for some people. If you have acne-prone skin, try and stick with mineral makeup. It is also important to keep your makeup clean, otherwise, like with makeup brushes, the bacteria can lead to acne. Make sure all compacts are closed properly if not being used, throw them away if there are any odd changes in smell and/or texture and disinfect all your makeup regularly.
Part 2 will be about treating acne and breakouts!
]]>If you missed our first post about understanding oily skin click HERE. While there is no miracle overnight ‘cure’ for oily skin, there are things that you can do to discourage oil production.
>Caring for Oily Skin
Using products with drying or harsh ingredients may make your skin feel fresh, and less oily, however they often make things worse in the long run.
3 things to kick out of your skincare routine:
They actually trigger more oil! SD alcohol and denatured alcohol are common culprits, and you can find out which other ingredients everyone should avoid here.
Tingling is just one way your skin is telling you it is hurting, and that cumulative damage will end up causing more problems.
They can exacerbate oiliness. Look for products marked as non-comodogenic. As a general rule, ingredients that keep bar products in solid form (such as bar soaps or stick foundations), or in emollient lotions and creams are likely to clog pores and look greasy on the skin. Instead stick to water based products.
The ACTUAL way to treat oily skin
Moisturising is very important even with oily skin. Hydration is the key to balancing oily skin! Because oil is less dense than oil it just sits on top of water. This means water hydrates the skin at a deeper level than oil which often just sits on the skin’s surface or is only absorbed by the outer layers of skin.
By hydrating the skin at a deeper level, the skin doesn’t feel as much of a need to produce so much oil leading to more balanced skin!
]]>
Oily skin is hard to control because it’s something we’re born with, usually kicking in sometime in our teen years or randomly as we age. Having oily skin is the same as being born with the predisposition for having thick hair or how tall you will be; you can’t stop those things any more than you can stop oily skin.
- it relieves dryness
- maintains a healthy skin surface
- keeps skin pliable
One myth to bust: Oily skin does not age less than dry skin. Oily skin may look less wrinkled because it is often less dry, but the cause of wrinkles is not something oily skin can stop or change.
Because oil is the way the skin hydrates itself, products created for oily skin that leave a refreshing feeling are counter-productive. Those products often have alcohol which strips the skin of the oil. The skin then produces MORE oil to cover the dryness caused by the alcohol. This cycle goes around and around making the skin oilier over time.
Next post will be PART 2 - caring for oily skin.
Earlier, we talked about the importance of skincare in achieving the perfect base for makeup.
If you missed that post click HERE
This is even more important in winter, as the skin is more prone to dryness.
Keep it light
To avoid the cakey look, use a sheer foundation or tinted moisturiser. An] alternative is to use a wet brush or sponge with a fuller coverage foundation to sheer it out or mix it with a moisturiser. Most people don’t need full coverage on their entire face for every-day [makeup for events and photography is an entirely different matter]. In fact, full coverage all-over often knocks the dimension from you face leaving it looking flat.
Conceal where needed
Once, you have evened out your skin tone with a layer of foundation you can see the where you need concealer. Common areas are the under the eyes, the chin and around the nose and anywhere you may have a stray spot or two.
Keep the layers thin
This is the most important thing to consider when aiming for a natural, flawless look. Therefore, be sparing with the amount of product you use and only use what is needed. One area to be especially careful with is the under eye. Too much product means it is more likely to sink into fine lines leading to a dull, tired appearance- the opposite of what you are trying to achieve. If your regular concealer isn’t doing the trick, try a peach toned concealer which will counterbalance the blue in under-eye circles.
Makeup can be tricky for mature skin. But, don’t despair, there is solution. A solid skincare routine is the base for great makeup. It not only makes applying makeup easier to apply, but also you’ll see the difference in the end result.
4 tips for amazing makeup
>Exfoliate
You’ll see the difference instantly! Exfoliating gets rid of dead skin cells that sometimes causes ‘bunching up’ of foundation. Done on a regular basis, fine lines are smoothed out. Also, other products are more easily absorbed, which brings us to the next point!
>Hydrate
A good moisturiser plumps the skin and gets rid of dry patches that appear as we get older (as skin ages, its ability to hold water decreases) which can cause the foundation to look uneven. Regularly moisturising is so important to smoothe the overall appearance and for the prevention of wrinkles. A good ingredient to look for is hyaluronic acid (which is in Gensen), which is great as it not only hydrates but improves the skin’s ability to hold water over time.
>Wait
Make sure your moisturiser fully absorbed first. Otherwise, the foundation may slip around leaving streaks on your face, because that isn’t a good look. Because Gensen’s main ingredient is onsen (natural hot springs) water from Japan, it absorbs quickly and leaves no residue.
>Use
A more emollient formulation of foundation is more suitable for mature skin as it glides over the skin, making it easier to apply. Also, be careful of matte finishes as it can dry out the skin and gives that mask-like look.
NOTE: If you are taking photos with flash, be careful of foundations with SPF as they will reflect the like making your face lighter than the rest of your body. That isn’t a problem with Gensen, as it has Plat Ceria, a natural UV protecting ingredient that doesn’t leave you with “ghost-face”.
In just 2 steps, Gensen hydrates and protects the skin so it is perfect for the busy mum.
For centuries, the Japanese have made going to the ONSEN (natural hot springs) part of their routines to maintain their vibrant and youthful skin. Gensen’s brings the benefit of mineral-rich onsen water in a convenient moisturiser and serum form. The particular onsen water we use is also full of iodine. So not only is it hydrating, but it also soothes and heals any dry, flaky patches that are prone to appear as the weather is getting colder.
Life can quickly become hectic once kids enter the picture- whether it be being kept up all night or ushering children from one place to another- there’s always something going on. Well-hydrated skin is the best way to hide your exhaustion (the next best solution to actually getting enough sleep, which let’s face it is something not always under our control). Gensen believes in getting maximum results with minimum effort so to give your skin that added boost, Gensen has hyaluronic acid which gives your skin that plump and ‘juicy’ appearance by improving the skin’s ability to hold water to give you. The moisturiser has squalene to shield the skin from any harsh winds which can further dry out the skin.
UVA rays remain constant all year round and are the primary reason for skin aging. But many don’t have time for that extra step of wearing sunscreen especially if they are not going to get burnt (UVB which causes sunburn isn’t as harsh in Winter).
But Gensen makes daily UV protection easy and effortless. With a new generation ingredient called Plat Ceria, Gensen has natural UV protectant that is equivalent to SPF30 and is also safe to sleep in (and is also safe for babies/children). So there is no need to wash it off! You can go straight to bed after a long day (after removing your makeup of course!)
Plat Ceria is the only UV protecting ingredient that is water soluble so Gensen products are comfortable to wear all day. it has a lightweight, luxurious texture that leaves no residue, making it a perfect treat for Mother's Day!
We aim to simplify your skincare routine, so here’s a quick overview.
>Clay Masks
Clay masks are great for overall clarifying and clearing out those pores! By getting rid of the gunk in your pores, they look a lot smaller. This gives your skin a smoother, more refined texture. Some have a more gritty texture boost exfoliation. If your skin is more sensitive, those may not be suitable for you. Also, clay masks are great for congested skin, which leaves you with a healthy glow.
Best for: oily, dull and acne prone skin
>Fruit Enzyme Masks
These masks use the enzymes in fruit to gently exfoliate the skin. By getting rid of that top layer of dead skin cells, your skin is left brighter and it smoothes out the appearance of fine lines. These types of masks are also quite gentle compared to other exfoliators so they are suitable for those with sensitive skin (if you have sensitive skin you can leave it on for a shorter period of time).
Best for: dull, mature and sensitive skin
>Peel-off Masks
The formulations of peel-off masks have much improved from the good old nose strips. They are now more gentle, so they don’t leave your skin feeling raw, while still clearing out the pores.
Best for: dull, congested skin
>Hydrating Masks
These are straightforward.But they are great for an added boost. When you’re tired or after going on a plane, hydrating masks instantly rejuvenates the skin making you look more awake. Masks with hyaluronic acid are especially effecting since they improve the skin’s ability to hold water (Gensen also has hyaluronic acid).
Best for: dry, dehydrated, sensitive and mature skin
>Tightening Masks
These are obviously aimed at more mature skin. While they’re not a miracle solution, a good tightening mask hydrates and can make your skin feel firmer and plumper. Look for masks with skin-restorative ingredients as they will accelerate the cell renewal process which slows down as we age. Accelerating the cell renewal process basically means dead skin will be shed faster revealing the newer, fresher skin. Skin-restorative ingredients include collagen and antioxidants; both which are included in Gensen’s serum and moisturiser.
Best for: mature skin
There really is a mask for everyone. As with all skincare, it depends on individual products and your skin. Always conduct a patch test first (try a bit of the product on your hand and leave it for the specified period of time to see whether you have a reaction to any of the ingredients).
Masks are a great way to relax and you can really notice the difference in your skin by regularly using a face mask. We hope this short guide was helpful to you!
When you take the time to de-stress, it will show on the outside!
For centuries, the Japanese have relaxed in mineral-rich onsen (natural hot springs) which are renowned for their skin restoring capabilities. These benefits were previously limited to Japan. Until now!
GENSEN’s core ingredient is onsen water from Miyazaki in Southern Japan. What is special about this particular onsen water is that it’s rich in iodine which has healing properties. It can soothe irritated skin, smooth fine lines and enhance skin regeneration. Now that your skin is taken care of by GENSEN’s repair serum and revitalising moisturiser, let’s get to the relaxing part!
#1 Light some candles
Getting the right atmosphere is the first step. A softly lit room will give your eyes some rest from staring at bright screens all day.
#2 Take a bath
The heat will relieve tension in tired muscles. Try adding a handful of epsom salts, half a cup of baking soda and some lavender oil (how much comes down to personal preference). This combination will draw out toxins, lower stress-related hormones and re-balance your PH levels.
#3 Pamper yourself
Use those luxurious lotions that you have been saving. Maybe try a face and/or hair mask. Or take the time to give yourself a mani/pedi.
#4 Drink green tea
Green tea contains theanine- an amino acid that promote relaxation. Green tea is full of antioxidants which protect your cells from damage from free radicals (which plays a major role in aging). It also improves blood circulation and lowers cholesterol.
#5 And finally take a moment and appreciate the simple things in your life and your what you have achieved thus far. Because you are strong and beautiful, both inside and out!
]]>80% of skin aging is caused by UV rays but what about the other 20%? A large portion of that is from excessive free radicals. What exactly does that mean? Free radicals are caused by the natural process of living. However, things like pollution, alcohol and stress cause excessive free radical damage which then ages the skin.
Don’t fear, antioxidants are here!
There is something you can do! Antioxidants completely get rid of excessive free radical damage. For the best results, nourish your skin from the inside and out!
For the inside
Antioxidants are mostly found in bright coloured fruits and vegetables. People say it again and again, make your plates look like rainbows. You may be tired of hearing/reading it, but it’s not without reason, they are great for you.
Other sources of antioxidants (because sometimes healthy eating is hard):
-Green tea: it’s loaded with antioxidants and one of the healthiest drinks for you (apart from water). It does have caffeine so it makes a great alternative to coffee as a pick-me-up. However, you would need about 3 cups of green tea to get the same amount of caffeine as a cup of coffee, so if you’re sensitive to caffeine, give green tea a go!
-Dark chocolate: Easter is coming as is the abundance of chocolate. Don’t restrict yourself, you’re allowed that small indulgence. Just stick to dark chocolate. It not only has less sugar than regular milk chocolate, but it’s full of antioxidants and other minerals like iron, magnesium, copper and manganese.
Applied topically
Gensen uses yuzu and soybean extract to nourish your skin with antioxidants to banish those free radicals that age the skin. Yuzu also gives Gensen’s signature refreshing fragrance which means there are no artificial fragrances in Gensen’s products. The Revitalising Moisturiser also has squalene to protect your skin from pollution, smoke and other environmental factors that cause free radical damage.
]]>
Exfoliation is a great way to even out your skin tone and have a smooth base for makeup so you can be your photogenic best.
Did you know? Exfoliation not only reveals a glowing complexion, but also improves circulation.
Here’s 3 other reasons to start exfoliate regularly.
1. It helps counteract signs of aging
Because older skin cells tend to exaggerate the appearance of lines and wrinkles, exfoliating gets rid of those to give you a more youthful look. Though our skin naturally sheds those cells, its ability to do so slows down as we age. So by exfoliating, you help the process along and remove some of the evidence of aging.
2. It can prevent breakouts
Exfoliation unclogs your pores, which in turn can prevent you from getting pimples since the oil is no longer trapped under the skin’s surface. That said, be careful exfoliating over acne as irritating the breakouts can worsen the situation.
3. It helps absorption of skincare
Without the extra barrier of dead skin cells, your skin care products penetrate more deeply and work better. Make the most of your serums and moisturizer.
We all want that fresh and glowy look right after exfoliation everyday. Don’t fall into the trap of over-exfoliating! Generally, exfoliate no more than 2 times per week in summer, and once a week in winter (of course it depends on the product and your skin type). The body is not as sensitive as the face and can be exfoliated more often.
Because the skin after exfoliation is essentially 'newer' it is more sensitive so be sure toalways protect it from the sun.
GENSEN's serum and moisturiser contain a new generation ingredient- Plat Ceria for natural UVA and UVB protection.
]]>
The seasons are changing and the weather is cooling. With Autumn, comes cool, crisp air and cloudy skies. Ever looked outside on a cold day, saw the thick clouds and neglected to put on sunscreen? Yes, we have all been there, but our skin is going to pay the price for our laziness.
Understanding UV rays
Many people know that there are 2 types of UV rays-UVA & UVB, but what does that actually mean? Basically, UVB is what caused sunburn, but UVA has longer rays penetrating deeper into the skin damaging everything that gives the skin a youthful appearance (collagen and elastin for example). So it’s very important to protect your skin from both.
Busting myths
UV rays can’t be seen! So factors like temperature and visible light have nothing to do with UV. Even on cold, overcast days, UV rays damage the skin. In fact, some studies show that UV rays increase in intensity on partly cloudy days, through the exact reason why is unclear.
Too much sun protection causing vitamin D deficiency is untrue! Especially in the colder months. In the cooler months UVB rays which is the source of vitamin D is less intense, and gets blocked by clouds and windows. UVA rays remain constant all year round and is the main cause of skin aging. Vitamin D is in food like eggs, fatty fish (such as salmon, tuna and mackerel) and fortified milk and juice.
GENSEN’s Sun Control range protects against both UVA and UVB with the natural new generation ingredient Plat Ceria. The lightweight texture of both serum and moisturiser mean that there is no greasiness nor oily residue! The core ingredient is onsen water from Miyazaki in Southern Japan which is rich in minerals and iodine to deeply hydrate your skin. It also has an emollient called squalane which will protect your skin from harsh winds and prevent moisture loss so you will have smooth, supple skin
]]>
Skincare isn't the most popular subject for most men around the world, but that’s starting to change. A growing number of men are becoming interested in taking care of their skin, especially for special occasion such as the important date! A man’s skin deserves daily care; doing so will make his skin feel and look healthier and for certain more attractive as the years go by. Of course, women absolutely notice when a man has a nice skin!
Skincare after shaving
No discussion of men’s skincare would be complete without some advice on how to get the best shave. Has shaving ever left your face dry and irritated? GENSEN’s core ingredient- onsen water will both hydrate and sooth the skin. That’s because our water is from a special onsen in Miyazaki which means it’s full of minerals and iodine.
Sun protection
For those who don't like to apply sunscreen because of the greasy feel, we recommend that you to use our lightweight GENSEN products. They absorb easily and quickly, leaving no oily residue. Daily use of a sun protection is the game-changing step to reduce the risk of early signs of skin aging and other visible changes many men commonly associate with "just getting older". We won’t even get into the issues of reducing the risk of skin cancer! Guys, you don’t have to see those changes, and daily use of a sun protection can help ensure that doesn’t happen! GENSEN’s Sun Age Control range helps reverse the damaging effects of the sun and to protect the skin against further sun damage.
Why Men Need a Daily Skincare Routine
Keeping skin healthy-looking and smooth means you will look handsome and suave in both the short and long term! Research has shown how you look can be important for your career and dating opportunities. All of those benefits plus smoother and younger-looking skin are possible from using a simple, well formulated skincare routine. It doesn’t have to be complicated, just 2 steps- serum and moisturiser and your skin is hydrated and protected.
Skincare matters to all women and with summer in full swing sun protection are of utmost importance. Ever hear her complaining about the sticky, greasy texture of sunscreen? Well, we have the perfect solution to that!
A moisturiser and serum full of natural ingredients that also provides broad spectrum (UVA and UVB) protection that is quick dry with absolutely no greasy residue and also has the refreshing citrus smell. The best part? It will arrive perfectly wrapped for you!
Get the Valentine's Day Special 20% OFF + FREE Shipping + Free Gift Wrapping
Get EXTRA $10 Off with code love2017
On Valentine’s day, if you want your evening to be extra romantic, lighting up candles is the way to go! Candles create a beautiful and cosy atmosphere, especially if you choose the right scent that you and your partner love! Hart:Ldn has a wide range of beautiful and unique scented candles which will make your valentine’s day even more memorable. Why not buy one for your loved one to make this day extra special?
Check out their range - Free shipping + 10% off first order over $80 with code tenloveharts
http://www.hartldn.com/product-category/candles-lanterns-holders/
It’s not too late to late to buy a valentine’s day present! Empty Bags is Australian made brand bags for beach, travel or casual. Empty bags are ethically made with thoughtful design, the uniqueness of the patterns ranging from daring denim to sassy stripe will make empty bags a perfect gift for him or her for this Valentine’s day.
Shop now at Empty Bags
Okay, so this requires quite a bit more planning on your end, but who doesn’t want to escape the stress and bustle of everyday life occasionally?
Even a short drive to a nearby cabin can be romantic. It does not have to be too expensive nor elaborate. Just tailor it to her preferences and she will appreciate your effort! How about Bowral for a short trip?
https://www.timeout.com/sydney/travel/a-weekend-in-bowral
We hope we have given you some useful ideas on what to get for your special someone. Our main advice would be to not leave it to the last minute. That will only incur unnecessary stress. Buying a gift for loved ones should be an enjoyable process.
We hope the two of you have a lovely Valentine’s Day and wish you many more happy years together!
]]>