A few looks from the Emmys made the most headlines this week — amongst those Emilia Clarke, the Mother of Dragons, who wowed in an ink blue Valentino dress and Jimmy Choo pumps. But who was in charge of her glowing skin and mauve lips? It was celebrity makeup artist Jillian Dempsey who is also known for her eponymous line of balmy cheek and lid tints.
Fun fact: Dempsey is a self-proclaimed Japan fanatic, and jets off to the country of the rising sun every time she needs a haircut. She loves Japan so much that she made it her mission to bring back the Japanese Gold Sculpting Bar device. She discovered it in one of her beauty travels, and then gained distribution rights to sell it in the U.S. and debuted last year. It is made with 24K gold, with a T-shape point that pulses and helps tone and depuffs the face. Even her husband, Patrick Dempsey, is a fan of it.
So who better to talk J-Beauty with than Dempsey? Here we caught up with her to find out all she knows about Japanese beauty secrets, her must-see places in Japan and how she implements these philosophies into her approach to beauty. So if you are planning to visit Japan for the 2020 Olympics, don’t forget this guide with her best beauty spots.
On Japan Being a Special Place For Beauty
“It is all about the details and the high standard for beauty items. It gets me every time I visit Japan. Even in a small convenience store, you will find products where the quality is unsurpassed.”
On the Japanese Beauty Philosophy
“There is a lot of care and respect within the culture. I relate to the appreciation of even the smallest of things. I love the respect for nature and the care that goes into it. That kind of environment is lovely to be in.”
On Japanese Beauty Making Its Way to the U.S.A.
“The art of acupressure and facial massage in your daily routine. I think my gold bar is the perfect example of how to start your day off right by giving your facial muscles a moment to get energized for the day.”
On Her Skincare Routine
“I like to wash my face using different brands to always be in the know. The most important thing is I always start my day by using a variety of face creams and my Japanese Gold Sculpting Bar for eight to 10 minutes. I always use SPF before running out the door. I have a very minimal routine and keep my makeup light.”
On Her Must-See Beauty Spots
“I would suggest visiting the Sincere Garden [a spa, shop and cafe]. The best natural, clean beauty and you can grab a foot massage and even a vegan lunch while there. Beauty Library is also an amazing place to shop for natural beauty, too! Never forget to go to Isetan lower floor where there is an amazing selection of natural beauty brands, too.”
On the Best Hair Stylist in Japan
“Haruka Hatakeyama who owns WARSAW salon. He is really into more of a punk atmosphere and not for everyone. Does color and cut. THE BEST!
On the Best Makeup Artist in Japan
“Kazuko Hayasaka is my friend and one of the best makeup artists in Japan! She has a beautiful line of organic products sold at the Sincere Garden.”
On the Best Hotel in Japan
“The Trunk Hotel [in Shibuya City, Tokyo] is my fav place to stay. Best food, service and hospitality. I love the location as well.”
On Her Top Skincare Tip
“One thing that has helped my skin would be: less is more. Using facial massage and oils is something I believe is beneficial to the skin.”
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