Boosting radiance is one of the most sought-after benefits in skincare. Most people already know that bright, unblemished skin is key to making a good first impression, but it’s always satisfying when science proves a generations-old belief.
Shiseido teamed with the National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT) in Japan to prove that radiance is the Holy Grail of complexion perfection.
Defining radiance as “a face with gloss both of specular reflection and diffuse reflection”, the study found that a radiant complexion is more attractive than a matte or oily one.
Female participants aged from 30 to the late 40s were shown a photo of one woman and asked to rate their impressions according to 10 evaluation criteria, including attractiveness, likeability, healthiness and tiredness. The study also confirmed that radiant skin creates a younger look by an average of three years.
Interestingly, a mattified complexion was rated below oily skin, so it’s best to steer clear of too-powdery a look.
Shiseido will use the study results to develop skincare and makeup that helps to create more radiant skin in its quest to provide consumers with products that “have a high emotional value”.
Why the study now? Because more people worldwide are worried that their skin doesn’t look in peak condition in selfies and on Zoom linkups.