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How to Use ALBION Skincare: Balancing Milk 101
In Japanese beauty, skincare is a ritual that layers hydration, nourishment, and care. One of the most unique steps in this ritual? The balancing milk. Despite the recent rise of milky skincare in the U.S., balancing milk is still a bit of a secret outside of Japan and Asia. But it’s one worth discovering if you’re looking for the best skincare for aging skin, glowing hydration, and stronger skin barrier. In our latest article in the How to Use ALBION Skincare series, we explored the world of J-Beauty cleansers. Today, we’ll take a closer look at balancing milk: its origin story, what it is, benefits for your skin, and how to make it part of your skincare routine. Origins of Balancing Milk Balancing milk is a Japanese skincare innovation. It dates back to 1956 when ALBION introduced its first ever balancing milk. Through years of research, ALBION discovered that applying a skin-conditioning milk lotion immediately after cleansing helped skin maintain its ideal moisture balance. ALBION went beyond hydration and designed it to also work as a toner, removing any debris left after cleansing and gently exfoliating. The end product, balancing milk, supported the skin barrier, prevented moisture loss, and promoted what is now known as glass skin. Products like balancing milk inspired a milky skincare revolution. ALBION’s balancing milks feature in the signature second step in ALBION’s 4-Step Skincare Ritual, supporting skin’s health and helping maximize the benefits of the products that follow. Why Use Balancing Skincare? Healthy, radiant skin depends on maintaining the right balance of moisture—water but also skin-essential oils and natural moisturizing factors (NMF). When this balance is disrupted by cleansing, environmental stressors, or aging, skin can feel dry, tight, or irritated. Balancing skincare focuses on restoring skin to its optimal state of moisturization. Products such as ALBION’s balancing milk are specially formulated with an ideal ratio of oil, water, and NMF, helping to replenish hydration, support the skin barrier, and promote a soft, supple complexion. But balancing skincare goes beyond simple hydration. It helps address concerns such as dryness, enlarged pores, and overall skin comfort, especially when paired with a multi-layered hydration approach of the Japanese skincare. For example, ALBION’s balancing milks feature gentle, nourishing, botanical ingredients like Gotu Kola, Wakame seaweed, and Meadowfoam oil. Using balancing skincare consistently can help rebalance the skin by supporting its resilience, glow, and a healthy skin barrier over time. What Are Emulsions in J-Beauty Routines? Still not sure what balancing milk is? Balancing milks are also called facial emulsions. ALBION’s balancing milks perform the function of a hydrating emulsion and skin-balancing toner. It is a skincare step that helps hydrate the skin, minimize pores, and soothe any irritation or redness. Balancing milks are a part of the Japanese beauty philosophy where the focus is on building resilience and radiance through lightweight hydration rather than using heavy creams or aggressive treatments. Balancing milks are especially valued as part of an anti-aging skincare routine that emphasizes long-term barrier strength and luminosity. Key Benefits of Balancing Milk Why should you consider adding a balancing milk to your skincare ritual? Here are a few key benefits: Lifts away lingering traces of makeup, sunscreen, and excess oils after cleansing Tones and restores optimum moisture balance in the skin Hydrates and nourishes skin deeply and supports skin barrier Plumps, helps minimize the appearance of pores, and promotes bouncy texture Prepares skin to absorb serums and creams more effectively Lightweight, breathable, and perfect for layering If you’re noticing your skin is dry or tight after cleansing or whenever you feel it is in need of additional hydration, adding balancing milk to your skincare routine can make a big difference. Ingredients That Give ALBION Balancing Milk Its Benefits So what makes ALBION’s balancing milks so effective? Why is this product so popular after almost 70 years? It’s all about the ingredients that ALBION skincare is known for. ALBION’s balancing milks are formulated with a carefully curated blend of botanical oils, peptides, humectants (such as hyaluronic acid) and antioxidants, and advanced emulsion technology to hydrate, condition, and support the skin’s resilience. The unique formulas are backed by ALBION’s advanced research spanning decades. EXCIA Embeage Extra Milk offers a deeply nourishing blend designed especially for dehydrated, mature skin. It melts seamlessly into the skin, delivering intense moisture with a full-bodied, creamy texture. Its formula includes Gotu Kola, known to support collagen, and White Ginger Lily to soothe and soften. Antioxidant-rich Guava Leaf extract and Wakame seaweed, rich in minerals, help restore radiance and vitality. INFINESSE Pump Matrix Milk is suitable for all skin types and offers a lighter, yet highly hydrating experience. Its formula is packed with proprietary OSK9 peptides and features a rich botanical blend. Deeply moisturizing Meadowfoam oil helps maintain the skin’s natural barrier, Traveler’s Joy soothes and comforts, while Wheat Germ oil and Gromwell extract, used traditionally in Japanese skincare, provide antioxidant protection and help refine the skin’s tone and texture. How to Use Balancing Milk in ALBION’s 4-Step Skincare Ritual Apply ALBION’s balancing milk as the second step of your 4-Step ALBION Skincare Ritual. After cleansing, use a facial cotton pad to evenly distribute and gently exfoliate. Dispense three pumps of the balancing milk onto the pad, press it onto five points of your face, and lightly massage in circular motions to enhance absorption. ALBION’s balancing milks are designed to be used immediately after cleansing, when the skin is in its most delicate state. During cleansing, natural moisturizers are often washed away along with impurities, leaving the skin vulnerable and in need of replenishment. That’s where balancing milk comes in. Its unique blend of carefully selected oils, moisturizing agents, and advanced emulsification technology absorbs quickly, helping to restore the skin’s moisture balance, deliver deep hydration, and support the skin barrier. How to Incorporate Balancing Milk Into an Existing Skincare Routine It is easy to integrate ALBION’s balancing milks into any existing skincare routine. Here are some ideas: Add balancing milk after or in place of your face toner, before serum and moisturizer. Use it instead of a serum on low-maintenance days for a simpler routine. Layer it as your hydrating step before SPF in the morning. Think of balancing milk as a lightweight moisturizer. Once you experience the glow and comfort it provides, you’ll see why this is a beloved step in Japanese skincare routines. Balancing milks are a beautiful example of Japanese skincare’s dedication to gentle, effective layering. Whether you’re creating a J-Beauty skincare routine or simply want to add a touch of lightweight hydration to your day, this step brings softness, radiance, and resilience to your skin.
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How to Address Hyperpigmentation with Kojic Acid and ALBION
Discover how kojic acid, a J-Beauty brightening essential, helps fade dark spots and restore radiance. Now featured in ALBION’s new EXCIA BRIGHTENING Immaculate Serum Z.
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Father’s Day Skincare: ALBION Beauty Insiders Share What Men Really Want
With Father’s Day around the corner, whether you’re shopping for your dad, your partner, or yourself, skincare can be more than just a gift—it can be an invitation to a moment of self-care and daily well-being. To help you choose a thoughtful gift, we asked ALBION’s beauty insiders to share their insights on what men really want in a skincare routine, how the Japanese approach compares to the Western mindset, and which ALBION products they recommend gifting. Whether the dad in your life is new to J-Beauty or in need of a skincare refresh, these expert tips make it easy to find something he’ll love and actually use. What Do Men Want From Skincare? While everyone’s skin is unique, men often share a few common skincare concerns and needs— shaving irritation, dryness, oil control, and simplicity. Whether new to skincare or looking for a routine upgrade, many men prefer products that deliver results without fuss. We asked a few ALBION insiders what they’ve noticed when it comes to men’s skincare preferences. Here’s what they shared. “For many men, that fresh, invigorated feeling is key,” says Satoshi, CEO of Albion Cosmetics America. “They want something soothing after shaving—something that calms irritation while leaving skin clean, comfortable, and cool.” Katsunori, an ALBION Garden store manager, points out that hydration becomes more important with age. “As I get older, my skin gets drier, so moisturizing becomes the focus,” he says. “Acne and rough skin also become a priority.” At ALBION Face Spa, manager Chieko sees a common theme: “Men want skincare that is easy, fast, and not sticky. Many want help with dryness or shaving.” Beauty Advisor Manager Marii agrees, adding that men tend to reach for straightforward, no-fuss formulas. “They prefer skincare that’s simple, effective, and easy to incorporate into daily life. I often hear they want hydration, oil control, and a smoother texture, but without a complicated routine.” Or as ALBION Face Spa esthetician Megan puts it: “Men want simple steps to get clean, clear, and smooth skin.” How Japanese Men Approach Skincare When it comes to skincare, Japan takes a different approach to what’s typically seen in the U.S. “In Japan, more and more men, especially younger ones, are making skincare a regular part of their routine,” says Katsunori. “It’s not unusual to see men using sunscreen daily and following simple but consistent steps to care for their skin.” Satoshi draws a clear distinction between the two regions. “In the U.S., men’s skincare often centers around solving a specific problem, like acne, signs of aging, or oiliness,” he explains. “In Japan, the focus is on daily self-care. It’s less about fixing issues and more about maintaining hydration and balance to prevent problems before they start.” The Japanese philosophy is about long-term skin health. The routines tend to be minimal but consistent, focusing on hydration, comfort, and prevention. There’s an emphasis on gentle and consistent care with no harsh chemicals or overcomplicated steps. This mindset is starting to resonate with more men in the U.S. As awareness grows, so does the shift toward skincare that supports skin health over time. ALBION Favorites: What Our Team Would Gift a Dad Whether you're shopping for Father’s Day or want to introduce the dad in your life to great skincare, the ALBION team has product recommendations that combine ease, high performance, and a touch of luxury. Whether it’s a single multitasking product or a tailored skincare routine, these insider picks are a great way to help any dad look and feel his best. One product that comes up again and again: ALBION Skin Conditioner Essential. “It suits a variety of skin types and is especially effective at calming the skin and improving texture,” says Satoshi. “For dads who might not have a skincare routine, this product can be a game-changer—it’s easy to apply after shaving or cleansing, and it instantly refreshes and hydrates without any greasiness.” Katsunori agrees. “It has that refreshing feel that men like, and it’s also effective for common concerns like acne and rough skin.” Beauty Advisors and Face Spa estheticians echo this choice, with Chieko adding, “It’s super refreshing and helps calm the skin, especially after shaving.” Marii highlights the power of Skin Conditioner’s key ingredient: Organic Job’s Tears (hatomugi). “It helps regulate the skin’s natural metabolism, promoting a healthier and more balanced complexion. It’s soothing, refreshing, and effective in calming redness and heat after sun exposure, great for active dads.” For those ready to take skincare one step further, the INFINESSE collection offers smart upgrades. Katsunori recommends INFINESSE Pump Matrix Milk: “It makes the skin feel supple and soft.” Marii adds that it’s lightweight, deeply moisturizing, and designed to help maintain firmness and elasticity “without heaviness,” ideal for men who prefer a minimal routine with visible results. Another great product suggested by Face Spa esthetician Megan is INFINESSE Pump Innovation Serum for dads who want moisture without feeling like they’re wearing too much product. “It has a lotion texture, hydrates and softens, but still feels light and breathable on the skin.” And for those who aren’t sure where to start, Beauty Advisor Nataly recommends thinking in steps rather than individual products. “For example, Step 1 is all about cleansing, and Step 2 focuses on moisture and targeted benefits,” she explains. “You can easily customize these steps based on skin type and lifestyle.” Skincare Gifting Tips: Where to Start Gifting skincare to the men new to J-Beauty, or skincare, is a gift of self-care. Opt for products that feel good and work well without overwhelming. Megan suggests beginning with the basics. “Start with a cleanser,” she says. “Men like to see quick results. Once they notice the difference that comes from thorough cleansing, they may be more open to adding other steps.” Marii recommends starting with a hero product that’s simple and iconic. “ALBION Skin Conditioner is gentle, effective, and represents the best of Japanese skincare,” she says. “It has a fresh, herbaceous scent and a cooling texture that feels great on the skin. It’s perfect for post-shave care, calming irritation, and keeping the skin clear and hydrated.” Nataly encourages thinking about the recipient’s specific skin needs. “Is his skin dry? Prone to congestion? Showing signs of aging?” she asks. “Once you understand his concerns, we can help match the right ALBION products to support his skin and lifestyle.” If you need help finding the right products, feel free to reach out through our contact form. Father’s Day Promotion One for Dad, one for you! From June 9 to 16, 2025, spend $50 or more and receive a complimentary 55ml bottle of Skin Conditioner Essential N (a $17.50 value). That’s double the refreshment, just in time for summer. Happy Father’s Day From All of Us at ALBION! 💙
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The Modern Dad’s Gift Guide: Japanese Skincare for Fresh, Balanced Skin
Father’s Day is fast approaching, and you might be wondering what to give a special person in your life—or even yourself. Gone are the days when men’s skincare meant a bar of soap, some shaving cream, generic deodorant, and a razor. Fortunately for men’s skin, times have changed. Today’s modern man values looking and feeling his best. More men are embracing skincare routines that deliver visible results and support long-term skin health. Whether he’s a first-time skincare user, a curious experimenter, or a lover of all things elevated, these made-in-Japan skincare gifts from ALBION are sure to surprise and delight. Why Japanese Skincare Works for Men We’ve previously shared how men’s skin is different from women’s and why it needs special care. To recap, men’s skin is typically thicker, oilier, and more prone to acne and enlarged pores. Shaving can also leave the skin vulnerable to irritation and dryness. What men want from skincare is simple: products that are effective, easy to use, and deliver visible results. That’s exactly where Japanese skincare, especially ALBION, shines. Minimalist, gentle, and built around hydration, it’s designed for high performance with minimal steps. Ingredients are often natural, antioxidant-rich, and skin-soothing, making it perfect for sensitive, irritated, or post-shaving skin. A Truly Luxurious Cleanse: EXCIA EMBEAGE Cleansing Cream Clean skin is the foundation of healthy skin. Go beyond the basics and give them a high-performance cleanser that elevates the daily cleanse into a moment of indulgence, with a luxurious texture and scent. EXCIA EMBEAGE Cleansing Cream is far from your average face wash. This ultra-luxe cleanser does more than just remove oil and impurities—it doubles as a facial massage emulsion, transforming a daily chore into a ritual of self-care and relaxation. Infused with gold leaf and rejuvenating alkaline hot spring water, along with a potent blend of antioxidants and botanicals, this rich cream purifies, hydrates, and revitalizes the skin. It leaves the skin feeling clean, soft, and nourished. The scent is a fresh floral blend of jasmine, lily of the valley, magnolia, and tuberose—subtle, elegant, and evocative of a spring garden in bloom. How to use it: Scoop a cherry-sized amount with the provided spatula and apply to the face. Massage gently in circular motions, then rinse gently with lukewarm water. Note: Those with metal sensitivities should be aware of the gold leaf content. Fresh, Balanced Skin Made Simple: ALBION Skin Conditioner Essential N They use conditioner for their hair but have they ever tried one for their skin? ALBION’s Skin Conditioner Essential N, affectionately called “SkiCon” in Japan, is a multipurpose essence that hydrates, soothes, and refreshes the skin in one easy step. It’s especially ideal after cleansing, shaving, or on hot summer days when skin needs a quick refresh. Powered by Kita no Hato (Job’s Tears), a Japanese cosmetic superfood grown organically in Hokkaido, this iconic formula helps control excess oil, calm irritation, and visibly improve skin clarity. It’s lightweight, non-sticky, and absorbs in seconds, leaving skin fresh, balanced, and comfortable—without stickiness. What ALBION customers say: “Great Product. I've been using Albion Skin Conditioner for over 5 years and I think it is absolutely the best for everyday face care. I'm a 58-year old male, and after I've washed my face and shaved, I use this product and it makes my face feel fresh, tight and healthy.” — Tolerant Elder, Verified ALBION Customer How to use it: After cleansing or shaving, saturate a cotton pad with Skin Conditioner and gently press it onto the skin. No need to rub, just let it sink in. A Spa Experience at Home: Skin Conditioner Essential N Paper Mask At ALBION, we believe that skincare is self-care, and this mask is a perfect example of this philosophy. Skin Conditioner Essential N Paper Mask brings the benefits of the essence into a deeply hydrating sheet mask format, perfect for a post-shave cooldown or an end-of-week reset. Each mask is soaked in Skin Conditioner’s antioxidant-rich formula featuring Kita no Hato, which is known for its calming, conditioning, and clarifying properties. Think of it as a 10-minute vacation for your face. How to use it: Carefully unfold the mask and align it to your face, avoiding the eye area. Smooth gently from top to bottom for a snug fit, then press lightly to secure. Relax for 5–10 minutes, remove, and gently pat in the remaining essence. Masks on! Why not turn it into a bonding moment and enjoy some quality time together with a little DIY pampering? Masks on, stress off! Learn From a Pro: Watanabe Shota x ALBION Wondering how to use Skin Conditioner like a pro? An iconic product meets an iconic ambassador. Watch Japanese idol, singer, and ALBION ambassador Watanabe Shota demonstrate the Skin Conditioner routine and mask on ALBION Japan’s Skin Conditioner page. It’s a masterclass in glow-worthy simplicity, and a reminder that good skin really is for everyone. Why ALBION Skincare Gifts Are Perfect for Father’s Day Choosing skincare for Father’s Day is more than just buying another grooming product—it’s an invitation for him to care for himself in a deeper, more thoughtful way. Japanese skincare emphasizes balance, hydration, and long-term skin health. These gifts don’t just look great on a bathroom shelf, they feel great to use and deliver visible results. Whether you're shopping for your dad, partner, brother, or yourself (because hey, we all deserve to have good-looking skin), these products combine function with indulgence. Father’s Day Promotion One for Dad, one for you! From June 9 to 16, 2025, spend $50 or more and receive a complimentary Skin Conditioner Essential N (55ml, a $17.50 value). That’s double the refreshment, just in time for summer. Happy Father’s Day From All of Us at ALBION! Here’s to healthy, refreshed skin, and the men who inspire us every day 💙
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How to Choose the Right J-Beauty Cleanser with ALBION
As we plan our summer adventures, we also step up our sun protection routines. And more SPF means cleansing matters even more. Properly removing sunscreen, makeup, and the day’s debris is essential for healthy, radiant skin. In Japan, cleansing is treated as a true ritual. J-Beauty introduced us to the practice of double cleanse—using an oil-based cleanser first, followed by a lighter, water-based cleanser. Japanese take their time massaging cleansers into the skin for up to four minutes, allowing the ingredients to work their magic. With a growing number of cleansers available from ALBION, and now Anna Sui and Paul & Joe, it’s easy to wonder which cleanser is right for you? Let’s find out. Why Cleansing Is the First Step to Beautiful Skin Cleansing done properly lays the foundation for your entire skincare routine. Throughout the day, our skin is exposed to a buildup of impurities: sweat, sebum (oil), pollution, makeup, and sunscreen. Even if we can’t see them, these layers can clog pores and prevent our serums and moisturizers from working their best. Cleansing in the evening is essential. It clears away buildup and allows skin to reset and recover overnight. If not removed properly, debris and dead skin cells can lead to visible dullness, clogged pores, tiny white bumps (milia), or even breakouts. If your skin is sensitive, aging, or acne-prone, finding the right cleanser is even more important. You want one that purifies deeply without drying or irritating your skin. What Is a Cleanser, and How Does It Work? A cleanser is a skincare product designed to remove impurities from the skin’s surface. There are several types of cleansers, each formulated for specific skin types and concerns: Cleansing oils and balms break down oil-based impurities and are ideal for makeup and sunscreen removal. Cleansing milks are creamy, often more hydrating, and suitable for dry or sensitive skin. Foaming cleansers are popular for combination or oily skin and help remove excess sebum and surface dirt. Gel or cream cleansers offer a balanced cleanse and work well for those seeking mild exfoliation or added hydration. Micellar water is great for a quick refresh or gentle morning cleansing. When choosing a cleanser, consider: Your skin type (dry, oily, combination, sensitive, etc.) Your makeup/SPF usage (light, heavy, regular, occasional, etc.) Whether a one-step cleanse or a double-cleansing ritual work best for your skin Your skin goals (clarity, hydration, comfort, support, glow) How to Choose a J-Beauty Cleanser At ALBION, we believe cleansing should be a gentle ritual that leaves skin clean, hydrated, and refreshed, not stripped. It should support your skin’s barrier while lifting away the day’s buildup. Our cleansers are made in Japan with high-quality ingredients and a focus on texture, sensorial pleasure, and skin compatibility. Below are four of our most loved cleansers—each designed for a different skin type and skincare need. Still unsure? Try our online skincare quiz, or connect with an ALBION beauty advisor for personalized guidance. For Stubborn Makeup: Try Anna Sui Clearing Oil Removes makeup, dirt, and sebum buildup Helps clarify and decongest pores Leaves skin feeling clean, not tight Suitable for blemish-prone and oily skin Designed for all skin types and specifically makeup wearers, this lightweight oil-based cleanser melts away waterproof makeup, mineral SPF, and excess sebum fast. Powered by tea plant seed oil (Camellia Sinensis), it clarifies without stripping, rinses clean with water, and leaves skin feeling soft and balanced. Perfect as your first cleanse or used solo on lighter days. For Gentle, Everyday Cleansing: Try Paul & Joe Cleansing Gel N Refreshes and softens Gently removes dirt and light makeup Non-stripping, easy-rinse formula Ideal for those new to cleansing or seeking simplicity Designed for first-time skincare users and skincare minimalists, Paul & Joe’s Cleansing Gel N is perfect for a gentle, low-maintenance skincare routine. This refreshing cleansing gel glides onto the skin, sweeping away daily grime and light makeup without disturbing the skin’s moisture balance. Infused with vitamin and antioxidant-rich olive oil from ancient Mediterranean trees, this cleanser hydrates and purifies, leaving your skin feeling refreshed and comfortable. Use alone or as your second cleanse—a daily go-to for clean, comfortable skin. For a Hydrating Yet Deep Clean: Try INFINESSE Deep Suction Cleansing Milk Gently removes makeup and impurities Leaves skin feeling bouncy, supple, and smooth Supports firmness and tone with botanical extracts Hydrates while cleansing—no tightness afterward This silky milk offers the perfect balance of comfort and performance. Designed for skin showing early signs of aging, this milk cleanser removes makeup, sunscreen, and impurities while supporting skin’s bounce, clarity, and firmness. Formulated with proprietary peptides—OSK9 and Acetyl tetrapeptide-2—it offers targeted care, while a blend of botanical extracts—Ashitaba for revitalization, Kiwi for visible firmness, and Japanese Hawthorn for tone—work together to nourish as you cleanse. Use alone or as your first cleanse to prep the skin for ALBION Balancing Milk or ALBION essences. For a Luxury Clean: Try EXCIA EMBEAGE Cleansing Cream Rich, creamy texture comforts and hydrates skin Gently lifts away makeup and impurities Leaves skin feeling plump, nourished, and soft Offers a sensorial, spa-like cleansing ritual Designed for mature, dry, or dehydrated skin, this indulgent cleanser melts away the day with a velvety cream texture that comforts and hydrates. Infused with gold leaf for radiance and alkaline hot spring water for hydration, rare botanicals from Madagascar, and ergothioneine, a powerful antioxidant, it’s more than a cleanser—it’s a ritual and a moment of self-care. Great for an evening ritual, this cream cleanser nourishes the skin while setting the tone for the rest of your skincare routine. Memorial Day Promotion From May 21 to May 28, 2025, spend $50 or more and receive a complimentary Outdoor Skincare Set, featuring: 🌿 6x SKIN CONDITIONER ESSENTIAL N (3 ml) – Refresh and condition post-sun skin with our best-selling essence 🌿 6x ECLAFUTUR T (6 ml) – Nourish and protect your skin against environmental stress with our silky serum featuring Yumesaika peony Treat yourself, or someone you love, to a fresh skincare ritual.
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"The Magic of Fermentation Inside and Out”: A Conversation With Omiso’s Ai Fujimoto
Ai Fujimoto is the founder and owner of Omiso, a Los Angeles–based artisanal miso company bringing traditional Japanese fermentation techniques to a modern audience. Born and raised in Japan, Ai relocated to LA in 2011 and began experimenting with miso and soy sauce production in her apartment. Inspired by Japan’s oldest miso breweries and committed to using organic rice koji and premium soybeans, she laid the foundation for what would become Omiso. Omiso produces small-batch miso fermented for periods ranging from three months to over two years, capturing the unique flavors of various Japanese regions. The company's offerings include traditional miso pastes, innovative instant miso soup balls, and vegan, gluten-free miso cookies—a blend of time-honored craftsmanship and contemporary tastes. We recently welcomed Omiso to our ALBION Garden store in Venice and had the pleasure of sitting down with Ai to talk about her journey, fermentation, and of course, miso. Tell us about Omiso. What inspired you to create it? Omiso is a small-batch miso brewery in Los Angeles. We make artisanal miso paste, condiments, and soup balls to help people enjoy miso in everyday life. The idea started when I was working as a translator in Torrance and noticed the rise of craft beer breweries. I loved the atmosphere and thought, “I want to brew something too”—but something rooted in my Japanese heritage. That led me to discover the world of fermentation and start experimenting with miso at home. Things picked up in 2018 when we joined the Hollywood Farmers Market and were featured in the LA Times. When COVID hit, we lost our main sales channel overnight and quickly pivoted to curbside pickup and local retail. Today, we're back at farmers markets and in about 10 stores across LA, working to grow even further. How is Omiso different from other miso brands? Our artisanal miso is handmade and naturally fermented, just like how grandmothers in Japan used to make it at home. We don’t rush the process. Our miso soup balls are hand-rolled and beautifully decorated with toppings—convenient and gift-worthy. We also make unique miso condiments that bring Japanese flavor easily to everyday cooking. Why is miso so special to you? Miso has deep roots in Japanese culture and is known for its health benefits. There’s a saying, “Miso kills doctors,” which is like saying “An apple a day keeps the doctor away.” What makes it special is koji, a fungus used for miso fermentation that supports gut health. I grew up eating miso every day and now feel called to share its tradition and benefits here in the U.S. What’s the secret to high-quality miso? It’s all about the quality of the ingredients, their ratio, and the fermentation process. We use organic soybeans, premium rice koji, and sea salt. The balance of those ingredients depends on the local climate—fermentation is very sensitive to its environment. That’s why I adjust the recipe to suit Los Angeles, just like different regions in Japan have their own miso styles. And above all, love and passion for fermentation are the most important ingredients. Fermented foods are part of daily life in Japan. Is this one of J-Beauty’s secrets? Yes! I believe fermented foods like miso are one of Japan’s beauty secrets. They support gut health, which in turn has a positive impact on skin and overall well-being. I also hear there’s growing research linking gut health not only to skin condition but also to mental health. When your gut is happy, you tend to feel better physically and emotionally. That balance is a big part of Japanese beauty—from the inside out. ALBION uses white koji in Flora Drip essence. Tell us more about koji’s role in miso. Koji is essential to the miso fermentation process. It breaks down proteins in soybeans and transforms them into amino acids, which create the rich umami flavor miso is known for. It also helps support digestion and improve nutrient absorption. That’s why Albion’s Flora Drip is such an interesting product to me—as a Japanese fermentation specialist, I love seeing koji used not only in food but also in skincare. It shows how versatile and powerful this ingredient really is. Can you share your personal skincare routine? My skincare routine is actually very simple—just washing my face and moisturizing every day. I’ve been using ALBION’s INFINESSE collection for many years. After washing my face, I apply the balancing milk first and then the lotion. That’s Albion’s unique skincare ritual, and I love how it feels. It’s become a comforting ritual. I also believe skincare starts from within. I eat miso every single day, which means I’m consistently getting the probiotics from koji fermentation into my gut. It’s not something that works with just the occasional miso soup—you really have to nourish your body consistently to see the difference, even in your skin. You called it “the magic of fermentation inside and out.” Any final thoughts to share? Omiso is a miso-making company, but our mission goes beyond just selling products. We want to help make the American food scene healthier through Japanese fermentation. I truly believe koji fermentation is something special, and it deserves more recognition in the U.S. Through our products and workshops, we show how easy and beneficial it is to include miso and other fermented foods in daily life. At the heart of it, Omiso is here to share not just flavor, but wellness—supporting gut health, overall well-being, and even skin health through natural fermentation. That’s the contribution I hope we can make, one bowl of miso at a time. Thank you, Ai!! At ALBION, we also believe skincare is self-care, and wellness is a key pillar of our philosophy. We’re off to enjoy some miso now!
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