Conversation With: Kanebo Sensai Artist Hisano Komine
Kanebo developed its Sensai line around the technique of kasane (layering) that is used when wearing a Japanese kimono. The line consists of high-quality skin care and makeup products made using only the finest ingredients, such as koishimaru silk and seaweed extracts. Different products and colors are layered on top of one another to create a look that is both natural and sophisticated.
World-renowned Japanese makeup artist Hisano Komine has worked on runway shows, advertisements and editorials for some of the biggest names in the industry, including Chanel, Fendi, Givenchy, Alexander McQueen, Balenciaga, Jean-Paul Gaultier, Giorgio Armani and Yohji Yamamoto. She also consults with Kanebo on the Sensai line, making sure the products both feel and look great.
Hisano Komine
Komine shared with us her insights and tips for making the best use of the products.
NM: What is your philosophy about makeup?
HK: I never think of a woman’s face as merely a canvas – makeup is a very personal thing, and should reflect the personality, soul and mood of the woman who wears it.
NM: What’s special about the Sensai line?
HK: Women have many different situations, and they need a different look for each one, so I wanted to make that easy. For example, there are a range of colors, such as neutral browns, feminine pinks and cool silvers. Also, the products are like treatments. They’re extremely light and comfortable, but at the same time they have great moisturizing properties due to koishimaru silk extract and a high concentration of natural spring water from near Mt. Fuji.
Kanebo Sensai Collection Eyelash Base
NM: What are some of your favorite products in the line?
HK: The Kanebo Sensai Collection Concealer is great – the built-in brush makes it really easy to apply and it goes on smoothly. And I always use the Kanebo Sensai Collection Eyelash Base, which conditions lashes before applying mascara. It also makes the mascara work better, so you get more length and volume and a deeper color.
Kanebo Sensai Collection Concealer
NM: Who are some of Sensai’s famous fans?
HK: Charlize Theron and Maria Sharapova are customers, and Scarlett Johansson says she doesn’t go anywhere without it.
The Kanebo Sensai Collection is available at Neiman Marcus stores and on NeimanMarcus.com.
The Beauty Event is September 8-18! There are gifts with purchase throughout the beauty department.
