Tokyo Tour: Cleanser, Toner...Placenta?!

A very popular ingredient in Japan (and Asia in general) is placenta. It's been used in beauty products (in the US and worldwide) since the 1940's, but to the non-initiated viewer (me) seeing the term used freely on shelves can be a little shocking--and the idea of spreading it on my face even more so. But the idea does make sense: Placenta is the nourishing lining of the womb, which is expelled after birth. It offers delivers nutrients and oxygen to the infant, and is very rich in nutrients and protein (in some cultures, it's normal for the mother to eat the placenta after birth). Skincare companies source their placenta from animals (mainly sheep) and humans (it's a lucrative business for hospitals to sell left over placenta to cosmetic companies. Waste not, want not, right?). Touted to help increase skin elasticity, cell growth and regeneration, skin lightening, and heal scars and injuries, sheep placenta can be found in a products by Natural Life and Amira Magic Products. EMK Placental uses human placenta, which is allegedly most effective since the skin is most compatible with human cells. While this all sounds very interesting, I'll stick to my normal prescription of Retinol and Vitamin C. No afterbirth for me, thanks.