In early August, as the heat often reaches one of its most intense moments, the traditional Japanese calendar announces the arrival of autumn. It is 立秋, Risshū, literally “beginning of autumn.”

In 2026, Risshū falls on August 7th. The date varies slightly from year to year and marks a precise astronomical transition, linked to the apparent movement of the Sun. The landscape still shows all the signs of summer, but the light slowly begins to change, and the days start to get shorter.

Risshū invites us to perceive the new season even before the change becomes evident.

The twenty-four seasons of the Japanese calendar

Risshū is part of the 二十四節気, nijūshi sekki, the twenty-four seasonal terms of the traditional calendar. The year is divided into four seasons, and each is further divided into six periods, following the Sun's annual path.

This system originated in ancient China and was later adopted in Japan, where it became part of the culture and daily customs. Some terms, such as Risshū, Risshun, Shunbun, and Geshi, still indicate significant moments in the succession of seasons.

Around August 23rd comes 処暑, Shosho, the period when the heat is expected to begin to subside. A transitional phase thus opens between Risshū and Shosho: summer is still present, while the first signs of autumn begin to emerge.

Why does autumn begin when it's still hot?

The twenty-four seasonal terms were developed over two thousand years ago by observing the climate of mainland China. In Japan, surrounded by the sea, the land and atmosphere heat up and cool down more slowly. This is why the beginning of autumn according to the calendar can coincide with some of the hottest days of the year.

The meaning of Risshū lies precisely in this apparent contradiction. The season changes gradually and manifests through subtle signals: a different light at sunset, a lengthening shadow, the sound of insects in the evening hours, or a less hot breath of air can anticipate what is to come.

After Risshū, seasonal greetings in Japan traditionally shift from shochū mimai, greetings in the peak of heat, to zansho mimai, greetings during the lingering heat. The word 残暑, zansho, indeed expresses the summer heat that remains even when the calendar has already opened the door to autumn.

The marks left by summer on the skin

The skin also undergoes a gradual transition. After weeks of sun, heat, perspiration, and air conditioning, it may appear more irregular, sensitive, or dehydrated. Radiance may diminish, and hyperpigmentation may become more visible.

Exposure to ultraviolet rays affects skin balance and pigmentation processes. The end of summer is, therefore, a useful time to observe the face carefully and refocus on hydration, comfort, and daily sun protection.

Increased summer oiliness may also have concealed a lack of water. When humidity slowly begins to decrease, the skin may experience tightness or roughness. Recognizing the first signs allows for a gradual adaptation of the routine.

Keep what works, change what's needed

Risshū teaches that every transition can occur without abrupt interruptions. The same principle can be applied to skincare: the routine can evolve little by little, following the skin's actual needs.

Thorough cleansing remains essential to remove sunscreen, sebum, and impurities. In the evening, the warew double cleansing with Cleansing Oil and Washing Foam helps the skin achieve a feeling of cleanliness and freshness, while remaining gentle.

Sun protection continues to be important. The arrival of Risshū is part of the calendar and does not coincide with the end of UV ray intensity. Photoprotection should therefore be maintained throughout the seasonal transition.

From summer lightness to increased hydration

On still-warm days, Emulsion Aqua and Cream Aqua can continue to offer fresh and pleasant textures. If the skin begins to show sensitivity, tightness, or less comfort, Emulsion Moist can be gradually introduced, initially even only in the evening routine.

Daily observation is more helpful than a predetermined date. Combination skin may need more hydration on the cheeks and lighter textures in the central area of the face. Application can therefore be personalized, adjusting quantities and consistencies in different areas.

Adding thin layers allows for supporting the skin without weighing it down. Each product is applied calmly and allowed to absorb before the next step, following the Japanese principle of care built through precise and consistent gestures.

The beauty of transition

Risshū reminds us that the deepest changes often begin silently. When summer still seems still, nature has already begun its transition to a new season.

Skincare can also follow this sensitivity. Observing the skin, recognizing what summer has left behind, and gradually adjusting the ritual helps preserve its balance over time.

The warew philosophy arises from the encounter between nature, Japanese tradition, and cosmetic research. In this vision, care follows the seasons and pays attention to their first signs, preparing the skin to welcome what is to come.

Risshū thus becomes an invitation to slow down our gaze. The light is still summery, the heat is still intense, yet something is already changing. Caring for the skin also means learning to listen to this transition.