New Research Report Launched on 50 Years of 'Cosmetic Culture'

The Pola Culture Research Institute, based in Minami-Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo, announced on May 15 (Friday) the launch of its research journal, 'Cosmetic Culture Research Report,' on its website, which explores questions surrounding 'cosmetics' and 'beauty' from a contemporary perspective.

The theme of the inaugural issue is 'Cosmetic Culture x Well-being,' presenting early findings from their research. The journal aims to contribute to the understanding, popularization, and development of cosmetic culture research by sharing new insights and reporting on activities at the Cosmetic Culture Gallery in Minami-Aoyama.

[Essays] In today's diversifying society, the issue explores 'Well-being from the Perspective of Cosmetic Culture' to re-examine 'beauty.' Starting from the roots of health and longevity in the Edo period to the formation of natural-oriented makeup styles in the Showa era, the research explores the concept of well-being through the lens of cosmetic culture.

[Research Notes] The issue covers recent research outcomes, including 'Cosmetic Culture Deciphered through Female Portraits,' which was presented at the Cosmetic Culture Gallery's opening event, as well as 'History of Men's Makeup' and 'The Wartime History of Permanent Waves.'

[Material Introductions] It introduces the latest research on the comprehensive beauty manual from the Edo period, 'Miyako Fuzoku Kesho Den' (Collection of City Customs and Makeup), held by the Pola Culture Research Institute, and features portable makeup tool sets from the late Meiji to Taisho era.

[Activity Reports] The journal highlights free, reservation-only programs such as gallery talks and workshops at the 'Cosmetic Culture Gallery,' which offers an approachable entry point to cosmetic culture.

Digital Museum New Exhibition The Pola Culture Research Institute has also opened a digital museum that reconstructs exhibitions online. The exhibition 'Modern Beauty: Modern Cosmetic Culture,' currently being held at the Pola Museum Annex (Ginza, Tokyo) until May 31, is now available in the digital museum.