The new range, comprising a face mist and balm, will be released on February 12, 2025, to help consumers overcome the peak season for hay fever “with comfort and ease”.
In spring, the skin’s barrier function tends to weaken, affecting its ability to retain moisture and raising its susceptibility to skin problems, as pollen and air pollutants are able to penetrate more easily.
According to a survey conducted by OSAJI in October this year, among 1,000 female respondents in their 20s to 50s, more than half (61%) had suffered from hay fever, with conditions ranging from mild to severe.
For those who experienced “rough or unstable skin”, they are most concerned about symptoms such as itching, redness, dryness, and increased sensitivity. The most common areas where these issues occurred were around the eyes and nose.
The Defence series claims to simultaneously hydrate and protect the skin.
“The pullulan contained in the mist creates a thin veil on the skin, preventing pollen and air pollutants from adhering to its surface.
“The formulation also includes adsorptive hyaluronic acid (hydroxypropyltrimonium hyaluronate) which forms a protective film, and penetrating hyaluronic acid (hydrolysed hyaluronic acid), which moisturises the stratum corneum and supports the skin’s natural barrier function,” the brand said.
This double effect of maintaining moisture and defending against pollutants is further strengthened by two skin conditioning ingredients, namely Garden Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) flower or leaf extract and butterfly bush (Buddleia sargassum) leaf extract.
The container is designed for gentle spraying of the mist so that it is suitable for use even over makeup. A pink-coloured version reminiscent of the spring season will be available in limited quantities.
The product comes with a citrusy herbal scent blended from a combination of lemon, orange, sage, and black pepper.
It is recommended to first use the mist, followed by applying the Defence Balm, and ending the routine with another spray of the mist. This “sandwich method” is said to provide thorough protection while caring for specific areas on the face.
The balm contains myristoyl pullulan, which forges a film on the skin that blocks external stimuli like pollen, yellow sand, and fine particulate matter (PM2.5) from penetrating.
It has a semi-matte texture, and can be used before makeup to protect areas prone to damage as well as over makeup via light tapping.
“The Defence Balm’s slim stick-type packaging allows for easy application around the delicate eye and nose areas without touching them directly with your hands. This results in less friction [that could cause irritation]. Furthermore, it is portable to carry around, making it ideal for daytime care and touch-ups.”
Eyeing bigger footprint in SEA
The doctors who served daimyos (feudal lords) and shoguns (military general and de facto leaders of the country) during the Edo period (1600 to 1868) were referred to as “osaji” for using a saji (spoon) to prepare medicines.
Founded in 2017, OSAJI strives to become the modern-day equivalent of osaji, supporting the health and beauty of consumers by complementing and enhancing each user’s individuality.
The brand recognises that the role of skin care goes beyond beauty, and develops products with plant-derived ingredients and based on dermatology research to minimise allergic risk.
Its portfolio spans skin care, body care, hair care, makeup, and fragrances.
In November 2023, Japanese conglomerate Marubeni invested into OSAJI as part of its strategy to promote business development across sectors, including social infrastructure, healthcare, and wellness.
In the wellness field, the company is focusing on beauty and targeting next-generation Asian consumers who aim to realise a lifestyle aligned to their unique characteristics as well as socially responsible consumption.
Marubeni jointly operates Ainz & Tulpe drugstores in Malaysia with Japanese pharmacy giant Ain Holdings.
The infusion of capital into OSAJI is expected to aid the brand’s overseas expansion, particularly in broadening its sales channels in South East Asia.
