Universal Core Technology (All Variants)
This powder family achieves "soft focus" through a triple-axis system:
- Oil Control Matrix: *Talc + Silica + Nylon-12* work synergistically to absorb sebum without overdrying, creating a velvet-matte base.
- Light Manipulators: Boron Nitride (in 01/03/04) and Synthetic Fluorphlogopite (01/04) or Pearl Powder (02) scatter light to blur pores/texture while emitting a soft glow.
- Waterproof Lock: Silicone polymers (Trimethylsiloxysilicate in 01/04, Diphenyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer in 03, Cetyl Dimethicone in 02) form flexible, sweat-resistant films that bind powder to skin.
Variant-Specific Genius
Variant 01 & 04 → Calming Oil Control
- Key Players: Zinc Oxide + Hydroxyapatite
- Zinc Oxide: Soothes inflammation while adding subtle UV protection.
- Hydroxyapatite (bone mineral): Mimics skin's natural minerals to reinforce barrier function under makeup.
- Texture: Lean toward oil-absorbing matte finish. Ideal for acne-prone/reactive skin.
Variant 02 → Luminous Hydration
- Key Players: Pearl Powder + Lavender Flower Water + Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
- Pearl Powder: Reflects light in multi-directional rays for "lit-from-within" radiance.
- Lavender Flower Water: Delivers anti-stress aromatherapy during application.
- Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride: Lightweight emollient preventing powder from clinging to dry patches.
- Texture: Radiant satin finish. Best for normal/dry or dull skin.
Variant 03 → Extreme Humidity Defense
- Key Players: Acrylates Copolymer + Diphenyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer
- Forms a breathable yet impenetrable shield against sweat/humidity.
- Resists "foundation meltdown" in tropical climates.
- Texture: True matte with maximum blurring power. Built for oily/combo skin in hot environments
Bio-Active Backbone (All Variants)
- Bifida Ferment Filtrate: Fortifies skin's microbiome barrier during wear → Prevents "powder fatigue" (tightness/dryness).
- Limnanthes Alba (Meadowfoam) Seed Oil: Mimics skin's ceramides → Enhances powder adhesion while nourishing.
- Antioxidant Trio (Magnolia/Pomegranate/Mangosteen Extracts): Neutralizes urban pollution/blue light → Prevents makeup oxidation (gray cast).
- Tocopheryl Nicotinate: Time-released Vitamin E → Protects both skin and formula integrity.
The "Soft Focus" Mechanism Simplified
When applied, the powder particles:
- Absorb excess oil (via Talc/Silica) → Eliminates shine.
- Scatter incoming light (via Boron Nitride/Mica/Pearl) → Blurs pores/texture optically.
- Reflect focused light rays upward → Creates soft-focus glow.
- Lock to skin via silicone nets → Maintains effect for 8+ hours.
Critical Considerations
- Fragrance Sensitivity: Jasmine/Rose/Osmanthus oils in all variants — avoid if easily irritated.
- Talc Concerns: Cosmetic-grade but present; those avoiding talc should skip.
- Variant 04: Contains nano Zinc Oxide (coated with Aluminum Hydroxide) — non-irritating but noted for transparency.
Why This System Works
- KATO-KATO didn’t create one powder — they engineered four skin-adaptive solutions under one "soft focus" umbrella:
- 01/04 = Soothes & mattifies
- 02 = Nourishes & illuminates
- 03 = Armors against sweat/humidity
Choose based on your primary skin behavior — not just shade. This is pressed powder reimagined as skin-tech.