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When I first began spending time with geisha, my visits were often sandwiched between dance and instrument classes, rehearsals, performances, and social appointments. These ladies were seriously busy—I learned that they often worked late into the night and early in the morning, taking only two days off a month.

Their skin-care routines reflected this on-the-go lifestyle. The geisha love products that multitask, hence Camellia Cleansing Oil (a three-in-one makeup remover, cleanser, and skin conditioner) and Rice Enzyme Powder (a three-in-one cleanser, exfoliator, and toner). They also shared with me their favorite tips and tricks for these two items, as well as some fun facts you may not have known about the geisha's favorite purifying duo.

Camellia Cleansing Oil

The oil will melt away SPF and even waterproof makeup, but its gentle enough for the most sensitive skin.

This will remove even waterproof eye makeup. Once, when my daughter came home with marker on her face, I was relieved to find the cleansing oil worked on her, too!

It makes for a lovely cleanser for your makeup brushes. Simply pump some into your palm, swirl the dry bristles until coated, then rinse under running water and squeeze dry.

Rice Enzyme Powder

The multitasking powder comes in three strengths, one for each skin type.

Daily, nonabrasive exfoliation has been shown to help leave skin baby soft and glowing.

This can (and should!) be used on your neck, décolletage, and body.

Sprinkle some powder into warm water and soak your fingertips to soften cuticles for an at-home manicure.

Once your makeup has been removed, you can mix your powder with cleansing oil to create a gommage, enjoying the cleansing and exfoliating benefits of both while conditioning your skin.

Have you found any unexpected uses for your purifying duo? I would love to hear your tips and tricks in the comments below.

—Vicky Tsai