WHAT’S A BLOTTING PAPER?
When I mention blotting papers I usually get one of two response: “Oh my gosh- I LOVE blotting papers!” OR “What the hec is a blotting paper?” Either way, most people I know who have tried them, end up being hooked, and for good reason.
Essentially, blotting papers are just what they sound like: little sheets of “paper” used to absorb excess oil on the face or set makeup in place. They usually come in a little pack of some sort. Simply press a sheet (gently) against your skin and the fibers of the paper absorb oil and moisture, eliminating shine but leaving your makeup intact. They’re especially fantastic for oily and combo-skin as they help eliminate the excess oil without having to re-apply powders throughout the day. For the drier skin types, they can help with sweat and humidity. Even guys can use these!
Seems pretty basic, right? So what’s the “eco catch”?. While blotting papers are traditionally a natural product made from some sort of absorbent material (rice paper, silk, linen, and hemp to name a few) and sometimes have additional ingredients (like silk powder or botanicals) on or in them, some companies have managed to complicated this simple concept. They may use other ingredients, including dyes and perfumes in or on the papers and the papers themselves may not even be natural (Shiseido Pureness Oil-Control papers are a great example of this).
For me, at least, the whole point of blotting papers is to help control oil without putting any chemicals or additional product on the skin. Additionally, as they are single-use and each sheet is thrown away after use, it’s ideal to find papers that are made from sustainable fibers and are also biodegradable
ENTER TATCHA: ABURATORIGAMI JAPANESE BLOTTING PAPERS
Tatcha’s blotting papers are generously sized- larger than many other blotting papers. They’re also strong and absorbent enough to use both sides- one sheet was plenty to de-shine my oily complexion. In barely seconds they whisk away oil and you can see it on the paper too so you really know it works! It doesn’t hurt that the packaging is beautiful, too. When asked in a recent interview for the blog Beautylish “These papers are that special?” Tatcha’s founder, Victoria Tsai, answered “Absolutely. It’s unusual to find something truly historical. The further we get along in the future, we must realize that there’s wisdom in the past to look for. I think it’s a beautiful concept to perpetuate old rituals and secrets, and if people in Japan still use it after 300 years, it’s working.” I agree!
The origin of these papers comes from the heart of imperial Japan. Abura-tori-gami actually means “oil blotting paper” in Japanese and refers specifically to the papers that result from the production of gold-leaf. For centuries gold craftsman used the abaca leaf to protect the gold as they hammered it into whisper-thin gold-leaf which was then used to enrobe the majestic pavilions. What was left was sheets of natural, absorbent abaca paper. Aburatorigami are considered to be the “gold standard” (no pun intended) in blotting papers. It remains a mystery exactly when, but somewhere along the line the geishas realized the benefit of using the discarded papers to keep their makeup flawless and their complexions oil-free. Aburatorigami have been a Japanese beauty staple ever since.
Because Tatcha papers are made from abaca leaf, not only are they strong, soft (no potentially irritating wood pulp) and absorbent, but they’re also environmentally friendly and sustainable. As blogger/professor/ scientist Alastair Iles puts it, “artisans hammer away on old leaf and use the abaca leaf to protect the gold. As such, it’s a by-product from a tradition craft process that’s deeply rooted in Japanese culture, thus using material that might otherwise be thrown away. After the paper is used, it can be composted, as it degrades naturally back into the earth. No oil-based chemicals are used; the energy comes from human, not from fossil fuels. As a result, aburatorigami has relatively low environmental impact.”
TATCHA’S PHILANTHROPY
When the recent natural disaster hit Japan, founder Victoria didn’t hesitate to jump in to find a way to help. Donating all the profits from their March special Kokoroyori Aburatorigami gift set, Tatcha was able to donate $10,000 for disaster relief. They’re also an active supporter of Save the Children, a humanitarian organization that has been active in Japan for over 25 years. In response to this act, Victoria said “In times like these, our friends are our greatest resources. Amidst the tragedy in Japan, there is also astounding beauty in the spirit of the Japanese people working collectively to support survivors. [It was] In appreciation of a culture that inspires us so.” And, as Victoria and Tatcha Aburatorigami were inspired by the traditions of Japan and its people, I’m inspired by Victoria and by a product that demonstrates how green and gorgeous beauty can be.
Originally Posted at Butterfly Effect’s Blog
