Japanese Placenta Serums: Multi vs Pure Extract Comparison

Introduction

Living in Southeast Asia means dealing with intense UV exposure and high humidity that accelerate premature aging and loss of firmness. The temperature extremes between air-conditioned indoors and tropical outdoors, combined with air pollution stress—all these factors weaken skin’s regenerative capacity.

In this environment, the Japanese beauty industry has long focused on placenta extract. Derived from the placenta, this ingredient is rich in amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and growth factors—nutrients essential for skin regeneration.

While researching placenta products in Tokyo drugstores, I discovered something interesting: even though many products claim “placenta-containing,” their formulation philosophies vary dramatically. Some combine placenta with other ingredients for synergistic effects, while others focus solely on maximizing placenta’s individual power.

Today, I’m focusing on three products with distinctly different approaches: NILE’s multi-functional combination formula, Placewhiter’s 100% pure placenta with special capsule technology, and Japan Gals’ unprocessed pure extract. Each represents a unique way of delivering placenta’s beautifying benefits.

Understanding Placenta in Skincare

What is Placenta?

Placenta extract is derived from mammalian placenta. The placenta is an organ that supports fetal growth, containing diverse nutrients involved in cell proliferation and tissue repair.

Placenta used in cosmetics primarily includes:

• Horse Placenta: High amino acid content and high rarity
• Pork Placenta: Most common and easily accessible
• Plant Placenta: Not technically placenta but contains similar nutrients

Placenta’s Beauty Benefits

According to manufacturers, placenta offers these expected benefits:

• Cell Activation: Growth factors promote cellular metabolism
• Firmness & Elasticity: Supports collagen and elastin production
• Brightening Effects: Suppresses melanin production and improves dullness
• Moisture & Barrier Strengthening: Amino acids help skin retain moisture

In Southeast Asian environments where UV damage causes both pigmentation and loss of firmness simultaneously, placenta’s multiple benefits make it an ideal ingredient.

Understanding “Pure Extract” vs “Containing”

When choosing placenta products, the term “pure extract” can be confusing:

• 100% Placenta Extract: Contains only placenta extract (not diluted with water or other ingredients)
• Placenta-Containing Serum: Contains placenta but also includes other beauty ingredients
• Placenta X% Formulated: Indicates placenta concentration among total ingredients

“100% pure extract” isn’t necessarily superior—the optimal approach depends on formulation purpose.

Quick Comparison Table

Product	Placenta Role	Key Additional Ingredients	Texture	Application Timing
NILE Perfect Serum	Supporting ingredient (part of multi-functional formula)	Retinol, niacinamide, vitamin C, 17 plant extracts	Rich serum	After toner as serum
Placewhiter Placenta Essence	Star ingredient (100% pure)	Almost only placenta (nano-capsule technology)	Watery	Immediately after cleansing (booster serum)
Japan Gals Pure View Essence	Pure extract (100%)	None (placenta only)	Slightly viscous	After cleansing or before toner

Product Thoughts

1. NILE Perfect Serum

While NILE is known as a men’s grooming brand, this Perfect Serum is a multi-functional serum suitable for all genders. Placenta is one of several ingredients, positioned as “part of a comprehensive approach” rather than the star player.

The Multi-Ingredient Approach

According to the manufacturer, this serum was developed with a “concentrated in one drop” concept:

• Retinol: Firming and elasticity improvement
• Niacinamide: Brightening and barrier function enhancement
• Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate: Stable vitamin C derivative
• 3 Types of Ceramides: Barrier function repair
• 17 Plant-Derived Extracts: Moisturizing and soothing
• Placenta Extract: Overall skin activation

This formulation aims for synergistic effects of multiple active ingredients rather than placenta alone.

Texture and User Experience

It’s a rich serum type applied directly from a dropper onto skin. The signature “La France” fragrance creates a sophisticated, luxury-hotel-like atmosphere.

Reviews on @cosme note “rich texture with high moisturizing power” and “visible difference in firmness the next morning.” However, some mention “insufficient for anti-aging needs,” suggesting individual variation in perceived effectiveness.

Who It’s For

• Those wanting to try placenta alongside retinol and niacinamide
• Those seeking multi-functional serums for time-saving routines
• Those who enjoy rich textures and fragrances in skincare
• Those with multiple concerns like pore sagging and dullness

2. Placewhiter Placenta Essence

From Meishoku’s “Placewhiter” series, this is a placenta-focused booster serum. Claiming “100% pure extract,” it’s a popular product with over 8 million units sold in the series.

The Placenta-Focused Approach

According to the manufacturer, this product’s core strengths are:

• 100% Hokkaido Thoroughbred Placenta: High amino acid content and rare, premium horse placenta
• Penetrating Frozen Nano Capsules: Technology that encapsulates placenta extract in nano-sized capsules to reach deep into the stratum corneum
• Designed as Booster Serum: Used immediately after cleansing to enhance penetration of subsequent skincare

Looking at the ingredient list, water, BG, and placenta extract are the main components—a simple formulation that eliminates unnecessary elements. It’s dedicated to maximizing placenta’s power.

Texture and User Experience

Despite being called “pure extract,” the actual texture is watery rather than thick. Use 2-3 pumps across the entire face.

Reviews on @cosme frequently praise “fast absorption, easy to combine with other products,” “skin becomes plump with firmness,” and “surprised to try placenta pure extract at this price.”

Who It’s For

• Those wanting to purely experience placenta’s effects
• Those seeking a booster serum to enhance subsequent skincare penetration
• Those looking for watery textures suitable for morning use
• Cost-conscious users wanting to try placenta pure extract

3. Japan Gals Pure View Essence (PL)

From Japan Gals SC’s “Pure View Essence” series offering various pure extract serums, this PL (Placenta) is the simplest 100% pure placenta product.

The Pure Extract Approach

According to the product description, it’s a “premium luxury serum using 100% cosmetic raw material without processing.”

While Placewhiter adds nano-capsule technology, this one provides placenta pure extract truly “as is.” It’s a philosophy of no technological processing, trusting placenta’s inherent power.

Texture and User Experience

It has a slightly viscous texture, richer than Placewhiter. The 25ml small-capacity packaging is designed for using fresh product.

Reviews on @cosme are mixed—highly praising “completely different firmness the next morning” and “effective for preventing pore sagging,” while some mention “couldn’t handle the smell.” The pure extract’s characteristic scent divides opinions.

Who It’s For

• Those wanting to try placenta in its simplest form
• Those who trust raw extract power over technological processing
• Those preferring small capacity to maintain freshness
• Those who find reassurance in long-established standard products
• Those focusing intensively on pore sagging
• Those who prefer moderately viscous textures

Real User Comments

Age 38, Combination Skin (NILE Perfect Serum)
“I had neglected skincare during my student years, and sagging pores became terrible. After starting this, my skin texture clearly changed. Sagging pores are becoming less noticeable.”

Age 26, Combination Skin (NILE Perfect Serum)
“Affordable price, so this is my third repurchase. Rich texture, and I use extra on areas where pores concern me. Individual results may vary, but it suits me.”

Age 40, Oily Skin (Placewhiter)
“Got it from Amazon. I was struggling with lack of firmness and radiance, so using it for anti-aging. Surprised a pure extract serum is available in this price range.”

Age 44, Combination Skin (Placewhiter)
“Meishoku’s products are affordable yet quality—always amazed by the cost-performance. Watery texture like water, fast absorption, easy to combine with other products.”

Age 38, Oily Skin (Japan Gals)
“Placenta pure extract—without this, my cheek pores sag. Been using it for years, and maintaining tight pores is thanks to placenta. No disadvantages despite the low price.”

Age 30, Normal Skin (Japan Gals)
“Bought without expectations but was shocked by results. Next morning’s skin firmness was totally different. Became one tone brighter, skin plumped up, eye wrinkles less noticeable.”

Three Selection Criteria

1. Choose by Formulation Philosophy

Multi-Ingredient Serum Suits You: NILE Perfect Serum

Ideal for those wanting not just placenta but retinol, niacinamide, and vitamin C all at once. An all-in-one approach for “I want to try everything” needs.

Placenta-Focused Suits You: Placewhiter

For those wanting to purely feel placenta’s effects without interference from other ingredients. Nano-capsule technology also enhances absorption efficiency.

Simple Pure Extract Suits You: Japan Gals

For those who trust placenta pure extract’s inherent power without technological processing. Experience placenta in its most basic form.

2. Choose by Texture

Rich & Luxurious Preference: NILE Perfect Serum (rich serum)

For those wanting luxurious feel as evening special care. Fragrance enjoyment makes skincare time pleasant.

Watery & Light Preference: Placewhiter (watery)

Easy to use before morning makeup, doesn’t interfere with subsequent toner or serum. Comfortable without stickiness even in Southeast Asia’s humid environment.

Moderately Viscous Preference: Japan Gals (slightly viscous pure extract)

Not too watery, not too rich—just right viscosity. Adhesive sensation to skin provides real “using serum” feeling.

3. Choose by Application Timing

As Booster Serum: Placewhiter, Japan Gals

Use immediately after cleansing, before toner. Expected to soften skin and enhance subsequent skincare penetration. Placewhiter is specifically designed as a “booster serum.”

As Serum After Toner: NILE Perfect Serum

Use as finishing serum after toner. Multi-functional ingredients provide comprehensive approach—can complete skincare with this alone.

As Intensive Care: All applicable

Layer on areas of concern (eyes, smile lines, cheeks) for intensive anti-aging care. Japan Gals’ small capacity particularly suits pinpoint application.

Best Choice by Skin Concern

Sagging Pores

Recommended: NILE Perfect Serum or Japan Gals

Reviews frequently mention “effective for sagging pores” for these two. NILE offers retinol-placenta synergy, while Japan Gals tightens pores with pure placenta power.

Dullness & Lack of Transparency

Recommended: Placewhiter

Focuses on placenta’s brightening effects, with notable reviews saying “became one tone brighter.” Using as booster serum also enhances subsequent brightening care effects.

Loss of Firmness & Fine Lines

Recommended: Japan Gals or NILE Perfect Serum

Placenta’s cell-activating action directly addresses firmness loss. Japan Gals offers high concentration at 100% pure, while NILE promotes collagen production through retinol combination.

Sensitive Skin & Simple Formulation Preference

Recommended: Placewhiter or Japan Gals

Simple ingredients mean less skin irritation. Placewhiter particularly advertises 8-free formulation (paraben, mineral oil, synthetic colorants, etc.), accommodating sensitive skin.

Time-Saving & Multi-Functional Needs

Recommended: NILE Perfect Serum

One bottle provides retinol, niacinamide, vitamin C, placenta, and more. Ideal for busy morning or tired evening skincare.

FAQ

Q1: Placenta is animal-derived—is it safe?

A: Placenta used in cosmetics is extracted and refined under strict quality control. Japanese placenta products especially clear domestic safety standards with long usage history. All products introduced here are Japanese-made with proven track records. However, patch testing is recommended for first-time use.

Q2: Which is more effective—”100% pure extract” or “containing” formulas?

A: Neither is definitively superior. “100% pure extract” makes placenta’s pure effects easier to feel, but offers no synergistic effects with other ingredients. “Containing” types allow more multifaceted approaches through combinations with other ingredients. Choose based on skin concern priorities.

Q3: What’s the best timing for placenta serums?

A: Recommended timing varies by product:

• Booster serum type (Placewhiter, Japan Gals): Immediately after cleansing, before toner
• Serum type (NILE): After toner

Using as booster serum softens skin and enhances subsequent product penetration. Using as serum seals in beauty ingredients as finishing step.

Q4: How long before seeing results?

A: Based on user reviews:

• Immediate (1-3 days): Plump skin feel, firmness awareness (especially Japan Gals)
• Short-term (1-2 weeks): Improved transparency, fine line reduction
• Long-term (1-3 months): Sagging pore improvement, dullness reduction

Placenta works at cellular level, so continuous use is important. At least one month of use is recommended.

Q5: Can I combine all three products?

A: Theoretically possible but not particularly recommended. Placenta already contains diverse nutrients, so little need to layer multiple placenta products. Rather, choose one placenta serum and combine with other ingredient serums (vitamin C derivatives, peptides, etc.) for better effectiveness.

Q6: Suitable for Southeast Asian climate?

A: All three are usable, but climate-appropriate usage recommended:

• After high humidity outdoors: Quick moisturizing with watery Placewhiter
• Air-conditioned dryness: Thorough moisturizing with rich NILE
• Before morning makeup: Prep base with Placewhiter
• Evening intensive care: Firmness care with Japan Gals or NILE

Final Selection Guide

Choose NILE Perfect Serum if you:

• Want to try placenta + retinol + niacinamide + vitamin C all at once
• Enjoy rich textures and luxury fragrances
• Seek multi-functional serums for time-saving routines
• Have multiple concerns like pores, dullness, and firmness loss
• Want to enhance evening special care

Choose Placewhiter Placenta Essence if you:

• Want to purely feel placenta’s effects
• Seek booster serum to enhance subsequent skincare penetration
• Prefer watery textures suitable for morning use
• Are cost-conscious but want to try placenta pure extract
• Value Hokkaido thoroughbred premium quality
• Have sensitive skin seeking simple formulations

Choose Japan Gals Pure View Essence (PL) if you:

• Want to try placenta pure extract in simplest form
• Trust raw extract power over technological processing
• Prefer small capacity to maintain freshness
• Find reassurance in long-established standard products
• Want intensive focus on sagging pores
• Prefer moderately viscous textures

Final Thoughts

Placenta serums divide into three major types by formulation approach. Multi-ingredient serums (NILE) pursue multifunctionality, placenta-focused (Placewhiter) pursues purity and technological innovation, and pure extracts (Japan Gals) pursue simplicity and tradition.

Researching placenta products in Tokyo drugstores, I’m struck by Japanese beauty industry diversity and consumer consideration. That such different approaches exist under the same “placenta-containing” label reflects diverse consumer needs.

What matters isn’t “which is best” but “what suits your skin and desired effects.” Using formulation philosophy, texture, and application timing as criteria, please find your optimal choice.

May you discover the product that most effectively harnesses placenta’s cellular-level skin-activating properties.

About This Review

About the Author: MIYABI, GlowCache Editor
Tokyo-based beauty enthusiast interested in Japanese skincare innovations. All opinions are personal and based on product research and available user feedback.

Reference Sources:

• Official manufacturer websites (NILE, Meishoku, Japan Gals SC)
• Japanese beauty review platforms
• Product ingredient and benefit information

Last Updated: September 2025 | Product information based on manufacturer descriptions and user reviews.