Do you know the story behind Tatcha? The beloved beauty brand was created in 2009 after a chance encounter with a geisha on a trip to Japan. Founder Victoria Tsai had been suffering for years with acute dermatitis and was looking for a purer, simpler answer to skin care. She was fascinated by the way geishas ritualistically took care of their skin, even after covering it in layers of makeup — and especially how maintained flawless complexions as a result.
The brand's signature is its inclusion of the ingredient trio known as, Hasadei-3: aka, algae, green tea and rice. Tatcha works with geishas, as well as labs in the US and Japan to create its premium line of skin care and cosmetics. The products are presented in the most beautiful bottles and jars, reminiscent of polished jewels and infinitely worthy of a spot on your vanity table. Even better, the brand is marked "clean at Sephora," so you know the products are free from parabens, sulfates, SLS, SLES, phthalates, mineral oils, formaldehyde and other things we don't want in our skin care.
Tatcha's first offering was the Original Aburatorigami Japanese Blotting Papers — perfectly portable blotting sheets that instantly sop up oil, without harming your makeup. Since then, the line has beefed up with various cult favorite face creams, mists, cleansers and color cosmetics. Tatcha also partners with global charities that support young women's education — a percentage of every purchase made goes straight to these wonderful causes. Ahead, we reveal 12 of our favorite Tatcha beauty products. If you're looking for a little luxury in your life that is uber-gentle yet effective, definitely give these products a try!
Image via @tatcha
When it comes to luxury, this lip balm really takes the cake: It's made of a blend of Japanese camellia oil and squalane, studded with gorgeous, gleaming 23 karat gold flake. The texture is richly hydrating (but never sticky) and it imparts a pretty, faintly gold glimmer. You can wear it anytime, but we especially love applying at bedtime (so we can awaken to soft smooth, plump lips).
The start to a truly flawless (protected) face starts with Tatcha's iconic sunscreen. Apply it in place of primer for a dose of SPF 35. It contains silk extract and a bevy of other botanicals to soften, smooth and give you a matte, filter-like finish. Your face remains protected from harsh UV rays and your makeup stays exactly where it was intended.
This oil-free gel cream is a dream come true. The unique texture makes this a godsend for oily or combination skin. It's light, refreshing, and imparts just the right amount of weightless hydration. Packed with antioxidant-rich Japanese botanicals, it minimizes pores, smooths the complexion and balances excess oil production. Try popping it into the fridge for a cool, comfy treat that will help de-puff your complexion (and make the application process feel extra decadent).
Part eye treatment, part makeup, The Pearl is a shimmering undereye cream that hydrates, boosts collagen and helps to brighten and firm the delicate undereye area. It's offered in three light-diffusing shades that fit a range of skin tones. Simply dab it on the orbital bones prior to makeup application and watch your eyes light up. It's one of the fastest ways to help fake the recommended eight hours of sleep.
