The Untold Story Behind the Development of Natural Clay Cosmetics

In the spring of 1983, I encountered this mysterious mineral called clay. The introduction came through a friend who worked at a major pharmaceutical company and introduced me to Professor Tezuka, a scientist who had been researching clay for many years. At that time, Professor Tezuka was deeply involved in the development of skincare products with clay as the main ingredient, under the aegis of a major company's new business project.

I still vividly remember the sparkle in the professor's eyes as he took his time explaining the various benefits of clay.

"The reason why clay is suitable for making skincare products is that it not only cleanses makeup residue and other surface impurities from the skin but also absorbs waste, sebum, and acne bacteria trapped in pores. However, clay has another interesting function. It has a unique 'ion exchange' property. When turned into a cream, it releases the beneficial ingredients such as moisturizers and anti-inflammatory agents, and in exchange, absorbs unnecessary waste and sebum."

"The clay that has absorbed the impurities seeks oxygen and leaves the pores on its own. It's the best material for facial cleansing. Unlike cleansers that use surfactants, it doesn't harm or dry out the skin."

While clay is a wonderful ingredient for skincare products, Professor Tezuka confessed his concerns about how to market the product, as using clay in this project was an entirely new endeavor without any past references.

Listening to his story, I was completely captivated by this enigmatic mineral. At the time, I was in the women's clothing business and wondered, "Could I possibly sell these clay products through my distribution channels?" and even more so, "Isn't there a way to promote it more broadly?" I decided to help Professor Tezuka in promoting his clay products to the world. This was the beginning of my lifelong journey with natural clay.

However, a year later, in 1984, the new business project was abruptly terminated. It was one of those mergers and shutdowns common in large corporations. Despite the company's decision, Professor Tezuka was deeply disappointed as years of research seemed to have gone to waste. It was a shocking event for me too, which I still remember clearly.

Unable to give up on the allure of clay, I began supporting Professor Tezuka's research personally. I became engrossed in product development and marketing, often sidelining my primary business.

Around that time, issues like children's allergies and atopic dermatitis were on the rise, becoming significant societal concerns. With my background in pharmacology, I actively exchanged opinions and information with dermatologists to promote the benefits of clay.

One day, through a small newspaper article found by my wife, I learned about Dr. Wang Ruiyun, a renowned physician for treating allergic dermatitis. This encounter became a turning point in the productization of natural clay.

Dr. Wang understood my vision and the potential of clay and played a significant role in popularizing clay skincare products. He treated patients from all over Japan, young and old, with severe symptoms and concerns. Hearing from him about the various cases where clay showed remarkable results solidified my belief in the miraculous power of clay. I felt genuinely gratified to have developed the product. (Currently, Dr. Wang Ruiyun is actively working as an academic committee member of the Japan Comprehensive Medical Association.)

In May 2004, I received an international call from Mr. Eguchi, the vice-president of Beverly Glen Laboratories, a cosmetics development company in California.

He passionately conveyed the need for a clay FACE WASH that doesn't use surfactants and is gentle on the skin, and a hydrating clay TONER for their new brand.

Back when Mr. Eguchi was still working as a salaried employee in Japan, I had thoroughly introduced him to the capabilities and allure of clay, which he remembered. Impressed by b.glen's skincare philosophy and passion for new products, I happily accepted his request.

Thus, my clay products started being sold not only in Japan but also across the Pacific in the USA. Moving forward, I remain committed to delivering genuine skincare to people worldwide, rooted in "the power of clay = the limitless power of Earth", and will continue to dedicate myself to developing products using natural clay.

Narration by Harumi Manchou, Natural Clay Developer.