HANDS' original skincare brand "muqna" was relaunched! While maintaining its simplicity and ease of use, the moisturising power that forms the basis of skincare has been greatly improved.
In this topic, we talk to the buyers on the development team about "the points they were particular about", "the parts they haven't changed", "recommended uses" and "the opinions of staff who have tried the new products"!

Powering up 'no-fuss' skincare

- "muqna" was launched in 2018, wasn't it?

[Nakano] Thanks to your support, it has been about six years now. We are delighted to see that our customers seem to support our 'commitment to moisturising the skin by removing excesses and making it feel comfortable'.

- The simplicity and ease of use of "muqna" is top-ranked?

[Nakano] Skincare is all about continuing to use a product day after day. That's why "ease of use" is so important.

- But I understand that it has now been renewed. Was there a reason for this?

[Nakano] The first step is to review the "moisturising power". However, this does not mean that former products have failed.

- Rather, I have the impression that there were many compliments on the moisturising power of the product.

[Nakano] Yes, that's true. But it was the right time for a power-up. There are a lot of updates to beauty, especially skincare-related information. Trend words change rapidly. Even when it comes to moisturising power, the standards for what is 'good' are constantly rising. So there were calls within the company for "muqna" to keep this in mind as well.

- There are many innovative new products in the skincare section at HANDS, such as those containing 'something ingredients'.

[Nakano] While we are confident that we have created a well-stocked section, we also feel that many customers are confused as to which skincare item is right for them in the end. That's why we wanted muqna to be the easiest skincare brand to understand.

- It is a relief or a kind of trust. It is also easy to understand that the order of use is indicated on the packaging, such as (1) remove -> (2) wash.

[Nakano] Not all customers visiting HANDS are interested in skincare, and many say that "only need the minimum amount of care", or that "something they can share with their family". I'd like to propose muqna as a first step for these people as well.

- That could certainly be a way of choosing.

[Nakano] Whichever, it is not a good idea to put it off, saying 'I don't know which one to choose, I'll think about it another time' or 'I'm not satisfied with what I'm using now, but it's a hassle to choose'. No matter what changes are made to skincare, moisturising is still important.

- The words of Ms Nakano, who has glowing skin, are very convincing.

[Nakano] Yes, believe me! Because I have repeatedly experimented and observed on my own skin!

Where things have changed significantly! Summary of key points

- So tell us specifically what has changed?

[Nakano] There is a basic series and an ageing care (*1) series, both of which contain niacinamide (*2), which has excellent moisturising properties. It works well with ceramide (an ingredient said to maintain skin moisture), which is also included in the conventional products, to lead to more lustrous, healthy-looking skin.

\   Basic Series  /

- It's an ingredient that has been talked about quite a lot over the past few years. However, the image of something that is highly moisturising seems to be a bit sticky.

[Nakano] "muqna" focus on ease of use. It is not sticky like conventional products and maintains a light, fresh feel.

- That's great to hear! So who would you recommend the Basic Series to?

[Nakano] 'I just want simple care and a good skin base.' It has excellent moisturising properties and is gentle and comfortable to use. Sounds plain, but 'uncomplicated' is worth it. It's all about getting a high average of healthy skin.

- It's simple is the best. What about the Ageing Care (*1) range?

\  Aging Care (*1)  Series  /

[Nakano] Recommended for those who are bothered by, or are aware of, their own skin concerns, such as 'I'm concerned about my skin's cracking,' or 'My wrinkles and dullness may be becoming more noticeable.' It contains a high concentration (*3) of niacinamide (*2), making it a richer treatment than the Basic Series.

- High concentrations (*3) are welcome!

[Nakano] Moreover, the price is more affordable than previous products. I think this price for the amount of moisturising ingredients and formulation is hard to find. The product is now fragrance-free and the outer box has been removed, which I think makes it even easier to continue using.

- Simple but luxurious.

[Nakano] We want you to feel good about using it sparingly on your face and body. It is also free from parabens, synthetic perfumes, alcohol, synthetic colourants and mineral oil. Incidentally, the Basic Series lotion and milky lotion are available in a large 400 mL capacity. The pump type allows you to quickly and generously apply them to your body after taking shower.

[Key Points of Basic Series]

- As ever, "muqna" seems to work for all ages and genders. What do you recommend for men?

[Nakano] We recommend the basic series (Crisp). We have renewed the product to support the most common skin problems of male, so customers who used former series are encouraged to slide straight into the new series.

- What are the most common male skin problems to begin with?

[Nakano] Sebum is often mentioned. Compared to women's sebum, the amount secreted tends to be higher, so so-called 'shiny' is more noticeable. If excess sebum remains in the pores, the pores will open up and this can lead to acne and rough skin.

- Is it... So-called oily skin.

[Nakano] It is also called. So, here is the basic series face wash foam. please pay attention to this.

[Nakano] Moroccan lava clay (scrubbing agent) is contained in Face Wash Crisp type. Clay is mud, which has a very high adsorption power for old keratin and dirt deep inside pores, and it washes off excess sebum.

-Face wash of former series was not divided into 'Crisp' and 'Moist', so this is new.

[Nakano] Yes, it is. 'Face Wash Moist type' also removes dirt thoroughly, but it has a milder feel than 'Face Wash Crisp type'. It is recommended for those who are concerned about feeling tight or dry after washing their face.

[Key points of Ageing Care (*1) series]

- Incidentally, is there a guideline for the ageing care (*1) series, such as 'after what age is the time to start using it'?

[Nakano] The term 'ageing care' (*1) tends to evoke an image of an older age group, but... It doesn't really matter how old you are. It's just age-appropriate care. It is common to all ageing people, in other words.

- I see. However, there may still be some people who feel a little bit hesitated to use.

The muqna ageing care (*1) series is designed to meet the needs of people who want to add extra care to their existing skincare regime, regardless of their age. The anti-ageing care (*1) serum is a perfect example of this.

- Serum. The most inaccessible of all common skincare... How should I use them?

[Nakano] You can start by applying it to the points that have been bothering you recently, such as your cheeks, the wrinkles at the corners of your eyes, the area around your nose, or your laugh lines.

- Oh, if using for poinyts, it is likely to be taken up easily.

[Nakano] We want you to feel free to take it in, but the content of this serum is fairly amazing. It contains four times (*4) the amount of ceramide and niacinamide (*2) than the former series. This is the first in the history of "muqna". It also contains retinol (vitamin A: retinol palmitate (skin-conditioning ingredient)), which can be used during the day.
We hope you will choose "muqna", even if you are wondering if the term 'anti-ageing care' (*1) is getting to you or if it is too early for me!

Can the series be combined?

- Can Basic and Ageing Care (*1) series be used in combination?

[Nakano] Of course!

[Nakano] If you want to keep the base skincare simple and concentrate on the points of concern, we recommend using "Cleansing" → "Face Wash" → "Toner" and "Milky Lotion" from the basic series, plus "Serum","Moisturising Cream" and "Eye Cream" from the Ageing Care (*1) series.

- You can combine them in any way you like!

[Nakano] It is important to complete the process of 'remove' → 'wash' → 'hydrate/protect', to moisturise the skin and to match your own skin type and skin concerns. It is not necessary to use a series of products from the same line.

- Is it an option to 'use it with other brands of skincare'?

[Nakano] Yes. You can also use muqna in specific areas, for example, 'I'll use muqna cleansing and facial cleansing foam to prepare the base' or 'I'll use muqna eye cream in areas where dryness is a concern'. Please complete your own skin-first skincare recipe!

How do Hands staff use it? Real use comments; 

- For reference, what is Nakano's recommendation on how to use?

[Nakano] I have combination skin rather than dry skin, so I want plenty of moisture for my face and body.

Example of purpose & usage
A = When dryness is a problem
B = When you want quick moisturising care
C = When you want a rich, creamy treatment

[Nakano] So, after applying the Basic Series' 'Toner (Moist)' evenly, add the 'All-inOne Gel Cream'. It is a toner, milky lotion and cream all in one, with a light texture but still moisturises well. If you are still concerned about dryness, add a basic series 'Milky Lotion' or 'Moisturising Cream' as a point of reference.
*Please use cleansing foam before toner, or if you wear make-up, use cleansing foam before fece wash.

- Oh, there is also care that can be skipped. 'All-in-one gel-like cream' is all you need, or rather, you don't need to use it.

[Nakano] Right. As long as the skin is well moisturised, there is no need to apply more and more. The condition of your skin also depends on your physical condition, and it is just a matter of taking it easy. The image is that you choose what you need and keep doing it.

- You need to consult with your own skin. Since we're here, let's see what HANDS staff say about the renewed "muqna" and how they use it.

As We asked 20-50s...

'It contains new beauty ingredients, but keeps its simplicity, affordability and dependable moisturising power. The result does not betray the long-standing repeat customers' (40s).

'When you hear about Ageing Care (*1) series, you might get the impression that it is too moisturising or that it makes your skin feel heavy, but the light and fresh texture makes it stress-free to use' (20s).

I use the Basic Series Toner Crisp type to care for my skin after shaving. It is refreshing yet moisturising and helps prevent dryness' (30s).

The 'Ageing Care (*1) UV Make-up Base' covers dullness while providing moisture, and leads to a one tone brighter skin impression (*5). It is ideal not only for skincare, but also for make-up' (50s).

*Comments are personal impressions. There are individual differences in the way they feel.

- It seems to be multi-purpose. It's simple, but it's not just a simple thing, it's something to suit your needs. Maybe that's what 'ease of use' means.

[Nakano] Since I started working in the field of skincare at HANDS, I have come to think that 'comfort of use' is really important. Whether it's cleansing, toner or cream, the feeling of 'Oh, I like this' the moment you put it on your skin is a good indication of whether it suits your skin or not.

- Since"muqna" is the ultimate in simplicity, it is likely that many people feel that it fits.

[Nakano] Right. The effects of skincare are not something that can be felt dramatically over the course of a day... but the base of future skin is certainly the skin of today. I think the renewed and more powerful muqna can create that healthy base. I'm sure you will also feel the 'ease of continued use' that will help you achieve this.
We will continue to listen to our customers' opinions and create a skincare brand that will be loved for a long time to come. So we would be very happy if you would post your reviews!

In Conclusion

The new 'muqna' has a much higher moisturising power while maintaining its simplicity and ease of use. It seems to be even more indispensable for healthy skin. Whether you have used muqna before or not, please take this opportunity to try it for yourself!

*1 Age-appropriate care
*2 Skin-conditioning ingredient
*3 Compared with niacinamide (skin-conditioning ingredient) in the Hands product Mucuna Basic Series.
*4 Glucosylceramide, ceramides EOP, NP, AP, AG, NG (all moisturising ingredients), niacinamide (skin conditioning ingredient) Compared with ceramides EOP, NP, AP (all moisturising ingredients) and niacinamide (skin conditioning ingredient) in the Hands Mucuna Basic Series
*5 Due to make-up effec

*The delay in the date of arrival and changes in product specifications may occur due to factory production delays.
*Some shops may not carry the products listed. Please contact the respective shop for handling conditions.
*Pictures shown include some production supplies and images and may not be available in shops.