Good Skin Day (Yoi Ohada no Hi)

What Is Good Skin Day?

Every year on April 18th, Japan observes "Good Skin Day" (Yoi Ohada no Hi), established by Meiji Co., Ltd., the maker of "Kajū Gummy" fruit-juice gummies, and registered with the Japan Anniversary Association. The date comes from the wordplay "yo (4) - i (1) - oha (8) - da," which sounds like "yoi ohada," meaning "good skin." The day reflects the company's hope that people will enjoy its collagen-containing gummies and have good skin, and promotional events are held at candy sections of stores around the country. April is also a time of new environments and strengthening sunlight, making it a good moment to review your diet and skincare.

How Skin Works

Skin is an important organ that protects the body from external irritation and dryness.

• Turnover: The cells of the epidermis, the outermost layer of skin, are gradually replaced by new ones. This renewal is called "turnover," and its cycle is said to vary with age and other factors.
• Barrier function: The stratum corneum on the skin's surface is only about 0.02mm thick, yet it helps block irritants and prevent moisture loss. Over-washing can strip away moisture-retaining components, so gentle cleansing and moisturizing are recommended.

Food and Skin

• Collagen and vitamin C: Collagen, which supports the skin's firmness, is a protein, and the body needs vitamin C to make it. A balanced diet with protein, vegetables, and fruit is the basis.
• Kajū Gummy and collagen: Meiji's Kajū Gummy has been a long seller since its launch in 1988. The gelatin that gives gummies their chewy texture is made from collagen.

Fascinating Facts About Skin

• Melanin: Melanin, which determines skin color, helps protect deeper layers of the skin from UV rays. Though often blamed for spots, it is a protective mechanism.
• Start UV protection in spring: UV rays begin to strengthen in spring and peak from early summer through summer. Even in cool April, sunscreen or a hat is a good idea on sunny days.
• Skin bacteria: Many resident bacteria live on the skin's surface; one of them, Staphylococcus epidermidis, is thought to help keep the skin slightly acidic.
• The largest organ: Skin, which covers the entire body, is said to be the largest organ of the human body.

Tips for Spending Good Skin Day

• Look closely at your skin in the mirror and check for dryness or sunburn
• Add vegetables and fruit such as tomatoes, strawberries, and broccoli to your meals
• Put on a fresh pillowcase and put your phone away early to get a good night's sleep
• Start the habit of applying sunscreen before going out

A Day to Care for the Skin That Protects You

April 18th is a day to care for your skin, which protects your body every day. In the busy new fiscal year, meals and sleep can easily be neglected — why not revisit the basics of balanced eating, enough sleep, and sun protection?