Kao’s KANEBO Launches New Dual-Purpose Skincare Inspired by Vernix Caseosa, Ushering in a New Era of High-Performance Beauty

Kao Corporation has officially announced the global launch of two new strategic products under its premium skincare brand KANEBO: KANEBO CREAM IN DAY II and KANEBO CREAM IN NIGHT II, which will be available worldwide starting September 5, 2025. These products draw inspiration from vernix caseosa—the natural protective layer found on newborns’ skin—representing a groundbreaking fusion of biomimetic science and advanced dermatological research.

Vernix caseosa, a creamy, lipid-rich substance, functions as the body’s first protective skin barrier at birth, offering exceptional moisturizing and shielding capabilities. Drawing from this biological blueprint, KANEBO’s R&D team has developed TAISHI™ Complex, a proprietary biomimetic ingredient designed to replicate the moisture-retaining and barrier-strengthening functions of vernix. This innovative complex forms the cornerstone of both CREAM IN DAY II and CREAM IN NIGHT II, delivering targeted skincare solutions aligned with the skin’s natural circadian rhythms.

KANEBO CREAM IN DAY II is formulated for daytime use, offering comprehensive protection against environmental aggressors such as UV rays and pollution. Enriched with niacinamide and licorice derivatives, it works to refine skin texture, even skin tone, and reduce redness and roughness. A lightweight yet resilient moisture veil forms on the skin’s surface, locking in hydration, preventing dryness, and ensuring long-lasting makeup adherence even in challenging conditions. The skin is left soft, luminous, and visibly lifted throughout the day.

Meanwhile, KANEBO CREAM IN NIGHT II is designed to deliver intensive overnight repair. Featuring niacinamide for deep dermal and epidermal penetration, this night cream addresses fine lines and helps inhibit excess melanin production, effectively preventing dark spots. With TAISHI™ Complex at its core, it delivers concentrated hydration during the skin’s most vulnerable, moisture-depleting hours. A unique nighttime shield helps retain moisture and supports overnight regeneration, revealing plump, radiant skin by morning.

This launch represents a significant evolution in KANEBO’s product portfolio and underscores Kao’s commitment to its “Top Global” initiative. As one of the six key brands driving the expansion of Kao’s global cosmetics business, KANEBO will continue to receive focused strategic investment, particularly in high-growth Asian markets.

Thailand plays a pivotal role in the brand’s regional expansion strategy. KANEBO plans to appoint a well-known Thai celebrity as brand ambassador and host a large-scale, immersive launch event at PARC PARAGON, a central landmark in Bangkok. Influential figures from Hong Kong, Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Myanmar—markets where KANEBO has a strong presence—will attend the event to amplify its regional visibility and reach via multi-platform and social media channels, aiming to redefine consumer perceptions of premium skincare across Asia.

Looking ahead, KANEBO will continue to deepen its commitment to the brand philosophy of “Delivering hope, not just beauty”, harnessing cutting-edge technology to bridge the wisdom of nature and the needs of modern skin, reinforcing its position as a global premium beauty brand with sustainable influence.