Takanori Iwata's Beauty & Wellness Routine | Skincare, Sleep & Diet

Takanori Iwata is known for his captivating performances as a member of Sandaime J SOUL BROTHERS, as well as his work as an actor and solo artist. His warm smile, fresh-looking complexion and sophisticated fashion sense have made him a familiar face across music, film, television and fashion.

Born on March 6, 1989, in Aichi Prefecture, Japan, Iwata graduated from Keio University and debuted with Sandaime J SOUL BROTHERS in 2010. He joined EXILE in 2014 and began his solo music career in 2021.

His acting credits include the films Evergreen Love (Shokubutsu Zukan: Unmei no Koi, Hiroimashita), Perfect World and Kinpatsu (Blonde Hair), as well as the television dramas Sherlock, Anata ga Shite Kurenakute mo, Tora ni Tsubasa, Anti-Hero, Forest and DOCTOR PRICE. His roles range from charming romantic leads to characters dealing with complicated emotions and circumstances.

Behind his glamorous career lies a collection of surprisingly specific beauty and wellness habits.

In 2022, Iwata revealed that his skincare routine included cleansing, toner, emulsion and sheet masks on almost every night. He named a face mask from Korean skincare brand Mediheal among his favourites. In 2025, he also explained that he often chooses skincare products designed for dry skin.

In the morning, he enjoys black coffee that he prepares himself. In the evening, he likes adding bath products to his bathwater. He is also particular about the height and firmness of his pillow, sometimes taking his own pillow on tour.

During his school years, he became a candidate for Japan's under-19 national lacrosse team and later devoted long days to dance practice at university. Today, he also enjoys painting, travelling overseas and spending time with friends he has known for decades.

During a trip to New Zealand, he explored Auckland and Waiheke Island, experienced the country's scenery and food culture, and purchased mānuka honey sweets similar to those he enjoys as part of his everyday throat-care routine.

Drawing on interviews and published sources, this article explores Takanori Iwata's skincare routine, face masks, haircare, fitness background, diet, sleep habits, bathing rituals, hobbies, family, views on marriage and connections with New Zealand.

1. Takanori Iwata's Skincare Routine: Dry Skin, Face Masks and Haircare

Cleansing, Toner, Emulsion and Sheet Masks Almost Every Night

One of the most revealing accounts of Takanori Iwata's skincare habits appeared in an October 2022 interview with Japanese beauty publication VOCE.

Iwata, then 33, explained that he had become more interested in beauty than he was in his early twenties. He had also begun paying more attention to the skincare routines of people around him.

He described using cleansing products, toner and emulsion as part of his regular skincare routine. He also said that he incorporated sheet masks almost every night.

One of his favourites was the blue N.M.F Aquaring Ampoule Mask EX from Korean skincare brand Mediheal.

After trying various sheet masks, he particularly liked the hydrating feel of this one.

For Iwata, who has spoken about the importance of how skin feels, sheet masks were a familiar part of his skincare routine at the time.

He also laughed about occasionally skipping a sheet mask after an evening out drinking.

His comments offered a relaxed picture of someone who takes an interest in skincare while adapting his routine to everyday life.

The 2022 interview provides a particularly useful snapshot of the products he chose at that time. Later interviews reveal how his approach to skincare continued to evolve.

Dry Skin and How His Beauty Priorities Changed Over Time

In August 2023, Iwata spoke about his skin during an event announcing his appointment as an ambassador for skincare brand FFAS.

He described his skin as being on the dry side.

When asked what kind of skin he found appealing, he mentioned skin that feels moisturised and full of hydration.

He was also drawn to the soft, plump texture associated with a baby's skin.

After trying FFAS products, Iwata shared positive impressions of their rich texture, how they felt when applied and the sensation they left on his skin.

He also appreciated the convenience of all-in-one skincare products, particularly their ability to simplify a busy morning or evening routine.

In November 2025, Iwata discussed further changes in his attitude towards beauty at an event announcing his ambassadorship for men's skincare brand DISM.

He recalled a period in his early twenties when he visited tanning salons and enjoyed having tanned skin.

As he grew older, his interest in skincare changed. He explained that, because his skin tends to be dry, he often chooses products intended for dry skin.

At the DISM event, he also tried the brand's Creamy Foam Wash. He was surprised by the springy texture of the foam and commented that it seemed convenient for busy mornings.

These product impressions were shared in the context of brand ambassador activities, rather than as a record of products he had used privately for many years. They nevertheless show his interest in texture and ease of use.

Considered together, the interviews tell an interesting story: sheet masks in 2022, a focus on moisturised skin in 2023, and skincare tailored to dryness in 2025. Iwata's beauty routine has developed alongside his understanding of his own skin.

Purple Shampoo for His Light-Coloured Hair

Iwata's attention to beauty also extends to his hair.

In the 2022 VOCE interview, he explained that he had returned to a lighter hair colour for the filming of a music video connected to his solo album.

One reason for the change was his desire to show fans something fresh and different.

He had originally intended to return to his previous hair colour after a short period. However, the new look received such a positive response that he decided to keep it for longer.

To look after his light-coloured hair, he said he used purple shampoo several times a week.

He also mentioned occasionally leaving the shampoo in his hair for approximately five minutes.

Purple shampoo is commonly used as part of haircare routines for bleached or light-coloured hair, particularly when maintaining the desired tone.

Iwata's experience shows the attention that can go into maintaining a new look. After changing his hair colour to surprise fans, he also took an active interest in caring for it.

This haircare routine relates specifically to his light-coloured hairstyle in 2022.

2. Black Coffee and Bath Time: His Morning and Evening Rituals

Enjoying the Sound of Coffee Beans Being Ground

One of Takanori Iwata's most distinctive morning habits is his love of black coffee.

In a February 2024 interview with Oggi, he was asked about his morning routine and revealed that he drinks black coffee.

What makes the habit particularly interesting is that he enjoys preparing it himself.

He even mentioned liking the sound of the coffee machine grinding the beans.

Although fans are accustomed to seeing Iwata perform in front of enormous audiences, his mornings also include quieter moments spent listening to coffee beans being ground.

His enjoyment goes beyond the taste of the drink itself. The aroma, sound and preparation process all form part of the experience.

Anyone who enjoys taking time over a freshly prepared coffee or a pot of tea may recognise the appeal of such a simple daily ritual.

Bath Additives and the Scent of Freshly Washed Towels

Iwata has also spoken about his evening bathing routine, explaining that he likes adding bath products to his bathwater.

When discussing fragrances, he mentioned enjoying clean, refreshing scents reminiscent of freshly washed towels, soap and shampoo.

These comments appeared around his involvement in a commercial for fabric-softener brand FADRIC HOTEL, in which he appeared alongside Hokuto Yoshino of THE RAMPAGE.

Iwata represented a fragrance associated with the freshness of morning, contributing to the commercial's clean and sophisticated atmosphere.

His preference for fresh scents complements his thoughtful approach to grooming and personal style.

Between the aroma of freshly prepared coffee in the morning and bath time in the evening, his daily habits show an appreciation for small sensory pleasures.

3. Sleep, Pillows and Sleepwear: How Iwata Approaches Rest

A Favourite Pillow He Even Takes on Tour

One of the more unexpected details about Takanori Iwata's lifestyle is how particular he is about pillows.

In his 2024 Oggi interview, he was asked about his favourite item at home. He explained that the height and firmness of his pillow matter a great deal to him.

He has continued using the same pillow even after moving house.

He also revealed that he sometimes takes his favourite pillow with him while travelling for concert tours.

Concert rehearsals, live performances and acting projects can involve frequent travel and nights spent away from home.

Amid such a varied schedule, keeping a familiar pillow close is one of Iwata's distinctive personal preferences.

His affection for an everyday item gives fans a particularly relatable glimpse into life outside the spotlight.

ReFa Sleepwear and What He Wears at Home

In 2025, Iwata became an image character for ReFa VITALWEAR, the clothing line from Japanese beauty brand ReFa.

In a December 2025 interview with SPUR, he introduced the ReFa Vitaltech Moist Smooth Stand Collar Sleepwear as an item he wore himself.

He particularly liked the soft, smooth feel of the fabric and how comfortable it felt when moving.

He also spoke positively about its clean, stand-collar design.

Although the interview was connected to his promotional work with the brand, he discussed actually wearing the item and explained the qualities he personally appreciated.

Iwata also described what happens when he returns home.

He likes changing into comfortable clothing straight away.

He prefers relaxed clothes and, apart from colder periods, sometimes enjoys spending time at home without socks.

His professional life may involve carefully styled outfits and glamorous appearances, but comfort plays an important role in the clothes he chooses for his private time.

Putting His Phone into Sleep Mode Before Bed

Iwata has also explained how he creates a distinction between work and personal time.

According to his 2025 SPUR interview, he puts his smartphone into sleep or Do Not Disturb mode after returning home and tries to avoid looking at the screen before going to bed.

He values opportunities to turn his attention away from work, particularly during meals and before sleeping.

When acting in a television drama or film, he may continue reading scripts or thinking about his character after returning home.

His working life also includes solo music production, group activities and overseas travel.

In interviews from 2025, Iwata spoke about paying closer attention to his physical and emotional state and making time to rest before becoming completely exhausted.

From the pillow he chooses and the clothes he wears to the way he handles his smartphone at night, these practical habits reveal how his attitude towards rest has developed in his thirties.

4. From Lacrosse to Dance: His Athletic Background and Love of Movement

Karate, Basketball and Lacrosse During His School Years

To understand Takanori Iwata's work as a dancer, it helps to look at his sporting background.

During his school years, he participated in karate and basketball before dedicating himself to lacrosse in high school.

Lacrosse is a fast-paced team sport played with a stick used to carry, pass and shoot a ball. It combines running, changes of direction, decision-making and teamwork.

Iwata trained seriously enough to become a candidate for Japan's under-19 national lacrosse team.

During a television appearance in 2025, he also recalled playing against university students while he was still in high school.

Before becoming widely recognised as a professional dancer, he had already spent years developing his skills and competing as an athlete.

Those experiences form an important part of the story behind his later career as a performer.

How the Film RIZE Inspired His Passion for Krump

A major turning point came during the winter of Iwata's final year of high school.

He went to the cinema with a friend from his lacrosse team and watched RIZE, a documentary about dance culture in the United States.

The film introduced him to krump, an expressive and powerful dance style associated with Los Angeles.

Krump uses vigorous movements of the arms, chest and entire body to communicate emotion through dance.

Captivated by what he saw, Iwata began learning the style independently.

After years of dedicating himself to sport, a single film inspired him to explore an entirely new form of expression.

When he entered Keio University, he became deeply involved in a university dance club.

He later recalled periods when he practised from 9 a.m. until 9 p.m., using the glass surfaces around the university campus to watch and improve his movements.

He was so enthusiastic that almost any suitable reflective surface could become part of his practice space.

Iwata also served as leader of his dance club, gaining experience in organising activities and working with other members.

His university years allowed him to develop both his dancing and his ability to collaborate with others in pursuit of a shared creative goal.

Professional Dance and His Interest in Combat Sports

Iwata debuted with Sandaime J SOUL BROTHERS in 2010 and went on to perform at numerous concerts and live events.

He joined EXILE in 2014, expanding his experience as a professional performer.

The passion he discovered during his student years had become his career.

His interest in sport has also continued beyond his own athletic activities.

In a 2025 interview connected to the drama DOCTOR PRICE, Iwata said he loves watching combat sports.

He particularly enjoys boxing, mixed martial arts and kickboxing, and follows competitions held overseas.

He also mentioned enjoying the idea of watching matches and getting excited with friends he has known since his school years.

From high-school lacrosse and university krump to live performances and following combat sports, movement and athletic competition have remained recurring interests throughout his life.

5. Food and Diet: Sushi, Honey, Barbecue and Meals with Friends

Sushi Is One of His Favourite Foods

One of the most appealing details about Takanori Iwata's food preferences is his love of sushi.

In a February 2024 interview with Oggi, he explained that he loves sushi and often goes out to eat it as a reward after working hard or as an enjoyable change of pace.

Enjoying a delicious meal and eating to his satisfaction is something he particularly looks forward to.

During the same interview, he was invited to express a favourite food through a drawing.

Iwata chose tuna sushi as his subject.

He laughed about the slightly unusual shape of his illustration, adding a light-hearted moment to the conversation.

In another interview from 2024, he mentioned both meat and sushi as foods he would choose for a special treat.

He explained that a favourite sushi restaurant was so popular that it could be difficult to secure a reservation when a day off appeared unexpectedly in his schedule.

On those occasions, a meat restaurant was sometimes a more convenient choice.

Because his work commitments can change, Iwata often makes spontaneous plans to enjoy meals when free time becomes available.

Barbecue and Meals with Longtime Friends

Alongside sushi, Iwata has frequently spoken about enjoying yakiniku, the Japanese style of grilling meat at the table.

At an FFAS ambassador event in 2023, he recalled visiting a yakiniku restaurant with friends after finishing a period of television drama filming.

The restaurant served an exceptionally large cut of meat, which he and his friends managed to finish.

Iwata laughed while remembering just how much food they had eaten.

During an interview related to ReFa GINZA in 2025, he shared another story about meeting a friend for lunch and enjoying yakiniku during the day before beginning work that evening.

In a 2025 BAILA interview, he also revealed that when he learns he has the following day off, he sometimes gets together with friends he has known for around twenty years.

These are people who knew him before his entertainment career and who are familiar with his everyday personality.

In another interview towards the end of 2025, he described enjoying meals with close friends as an important way to relax.

Although his career includes concerts, filming and travel, Iwata continues to value the simple pleasure of sharing good food with people he trusts.

His Habit of Eating Honey

Another interesting part of Iwata's everyday diet is his habit of eating honey.

During a 2025 interview related to DOCTOR PRICE, he was asked about his approach to looking after himself.

He explained that eating plenty and getting enough sleep are important to him.

He also revealed that, because his work involves using his voice, he regularly eats honey on its own as part of his personal throat-care routine.

He described doing this almost every day.

As a singer, actor and performer who frequently participates in interviews and public events, Iwata has many occasions to use his voice.

Honey is one of the familiar foods he personally chooses as part of his routine.

A later travel feature also revealed that he enjoys mānuka honey sweets in everyday life.

These two habits—eating honey directly and choosing honey sweets—offer a distinctive glimpse into the foods Iwata keeps close to his daily life.

Alongside his skincare, sleep habits and favourite meals, these details help paint a fuller picture of his approach to everyday wellbeing.

6. Painting, Saunas and Days Off: The Things He Loves Doing

Painting for Up to Six Hours at Home

One of Takanori Iwata's most fascinating personal interests is painting.

He had enjoyed drawing and design since childhood and returned to painting during a period when entertainment activities were restricted.

He set up an easel at home and began creating works using canvases and various art materials.

At first, his subjects included scenes he had seen overseas and memorable moments from films. Over time, he also began experimenting with more abstract forms of expression.

In a 2025 interview, Iwata explained that he works with acrylic paint and other materials and can become so absorbed in painting that six hours pass before he realises it.

When working on an acting project, he may continue reading scripts and thinking about his character after returning home.

Painting gives him another creative activity on which he can focus his attention.

His artwork has also appeared on the cover of one of his solo music releases.

What began as a personal hobby has therefore become connected with another important part of his artistic career.

In 2025, he also participated in a live-painting project at an exhibition celebrating Sandaime J SOUL BROTHERS.

He described enjoying the process of adding to the artwork over successive visits and watching the piece gradually change.

From quiet creative sessions at home to sharing the development of an artwork with fans, painting has become another important outlet for his imagination.

Private Saunas, Games and Spending Time in Nature

Iwata also has a variety of interests that help him enjoy his days away from work.

In his 2022 VOCE interview, he said he had become enthusiastic about visiting saunas by himself.

He was particularly interested in private saunas, where he could spend time at his own pace.

At home, he also enjoys watching videos and playing games.

These relaxed pastimes sit alongside the long hours he sometimes devotes to painting and other creative activities.

In a 2022 interview, he also spoke about wanting to visit places surrounded by nature after a busy summer of work.

Mountains, beaches, islands and rivers were among the environments that interested him.

His enjoyment of travel continued in later years, including his 2025 visit to New Zealand, where he experienced both lively city neighbourhoods and beautiful island scenery.

A Changing Attitude Towards Work in His Late Thirties

Towards the end of 2025, Iwata reflected on his approach to work and spoke about wanting to make more time for himself.

Throughout his younger years, he had thrown himself into new projects, developing his career across group performances, acting and solo music.

Overseas experiences also exposed him to different cultures and ways of thinking, inspiring him to explore new possibilities in life.

He has expressed an interest in studying languages, learning more about different cultures and spending time on his own creative interests.

Rather than focusing exclusively on his work schedule, he is increasingly interested in building a life that also makes room for learning and personal enjoyment.

This changing perspective offers an interesting view of Iwata as an artist approaching new stages in his career and personal life.

7. Family, Marriage Views and Career: From Keio University to Entertainment

His Family's Concerns About Entering Show Business

An important part of Takanori Iwata's background is his family's connection to Madras, a longstanding Japanese leather-shoe company based in Aichi Prefecture.

Iwata grew up in a family whose father and older brother were involved in the family business.

After preparing for competitive entrance examinations, he entered Keio's junior high school and continued through Keio Senior High School to Keio University.

During university, he participated in conventional job-hunting activities and received an offer of employment from a company.

However, his enthusiasm for dance led him to make a different decision: he wanted to enter the entertainment industry.

In a 2022 interview with Fujinkoron, Iwata recalled that his parents strongly opposed the decision when he first told them about it.

His mother was moved to tears.

After years of education and expectations surrounding a conventional career path, his decision to enter show business represented a major change for the family.

Nevertheless, Iwata chose to follow something that truly excited him.

His connection with Naoki Kobayashi, established through dance during his university years, was also part of the path that eventually led him into professional entertainment.

Iwata debuted with Sandaime J SOUL BROTHERS in 2010, joined EXILE in 2014 and gradually expanded into acting and solo music.

Growing as an Actor and Solo Artist

As an actor, Iwata has built a career playing characters with a wide range of personalities and emotional experiences.

In Evergreen Love, he portrayed the leading man in a romantic story, while Perfect World offered an opportunity to portray more delicate emotional relationships.

In the television drama Anata ga Shite Kurenakute mo, he played a man struggling with marital issues. He also appeared as Satoru Hanaoka in the NHK morning drama Tora ni Tsubasa.

His appearances in Anti-Hero, Forest and DOCTOR PRICE expanded his range into characters facing difficult circumstances and personal conflicts.

In 2025, he took a leading role in the film Kinpatsu (Blonde Hair).

Iwata began his solo music activities in 2021 and continued releasing music, including the song "Phone Number" in 2025.

He also developed a distinct musical identity through projects associated with SPACE COWBOY.

In 2026, he pursued further music activities under the name GAN.

His fashion career has included serving as a Louis Vuitton ambassador and attending fashion shows in Paris.

He has also spoken about being inspired by opportunities to meet international artists and experience creative work overseas.

Dance, acting, music, painting and fashion have all become different ways for Iwata to express himself.

Working with His Family and His Views on Marriage in 2025

Over time, Iwata's relationship with his family and its business also developed.

As he gained experience in entertainment, he began discussing the family business more often with his father and older brother.

He became interested in using his professional experience to share the appeal of Japanese shoemaking with a wider audience.

In 2021, he became creative director of NERD MIND, a Japanese leather-shoe brand.

He visited a factory in Aichi Prefecture and learned more about the craftsmanship, technical skills and dedication involved in making leather shoes.

Through the brand, he has shown an interest in introducing Japanese craftsmanship to younger audiences and people overseas.

One meaningful moment came when his parents, who had once worried about his decision to pursue entertainment, expressed appreciation for his involvement in the business.

His experience in music, fashion and entertainment had opened a new way for him to contribute to something important to his family.

Iwata has also spoken openly about marriage and the possibility of having a family of his own.

In his 2022 Fujinkoron interview, he explained that, at the time, he was not yet at a stage where he could imagine starting his own family in concrete terms.

In a 2025 BAILA interview, he spoke about enjoying time with longtime friends and humorously mentioned that he had no plans to marry at that point.

These comments represent his views at the times of the interviews rather than a statement about his current relationship or marital status.

His comments offer a picture of someone who values his work, friendships and family relationships while continuing to consider how he wants to live his life.

8. Takanori Iwata in New Zealand: Nature, Food and Mānuka Honey

Exploring Auckland and Taking on an Adventure at Eden Park

Takanori Iwata has a particularly interesting personal connection with New Zealand through his travels.

As an overseas travel ambassador for the Japan Association of Travel Agents (JATA), he visited New Zealand in 2025.

His journey was featured in the February 2026 issue of otona MUSE and in an accompanying online travel feature.

The trip focused on Auckland, New Zealand's largest city, and nearby Waiheke Island.

In Auckland, Iwata explored Ponsonby, a lively neighbourhood known for its cafés, restaurants, boutiques and distinctive local atmosphere.

He visited BURGER BURGER, where he enjoyed a generously sized hamburger and experienced the city's casual dining culture.

Iwata compared Auckland's stylish urban atmosphere to New York and spoke positively about the city's character.

He also visited Eden Park, the famous stadium closely associated with New Zealand rugby.

There, he took part in an activity that involved wearing a safety harness and walking along the stadium roof.

The experience offered impressive elevated views across Auckland.

Having enjoyed lacrosse during his school years and continued working as a professional dancer, Iwata appeared enthusiastic about taking on another active experience while travelling.

Throughout the trip, he appreciated the balance between Auckland's city life and the beautiful natural surroundings nearby.

Waiheke Island, VINO VINO and Creative Gelato at GIAPO

On the second day of his trip, Iwata headed to Waiheke Island, a popular destination in the Hauraki Gulf near Auckland.

The island is known for its coastline, vineyards, wineries and scenic restaurants.

For the outward journey, Iwata travelled by helicopter.

Flying above the blue water and islands provided an unusual perspective on the landscapes around Auckland.

On Waiheke, he visited VINO VINO, a restaurant with views over the sea, and enjoyed food prepared with local ingredients.

The island offered a different atmosphere from the busy streets of Auckland, with its coastal views and relaxed dining experiences.

For the return journey, Iwata travelled by ferry, giving him another opportunity to enjoy views of the city and surrounding water.

Travelling to the island by air and returning by sea made the journey itself part of the experience.

Back in Auckland, he also visited GIAPO, a gelato destination known for imaginative designs and unusual presentations.

Its creations include striking shapes and playful ideas inspired by objects and animals, using ingredients such as New Zealand milk and cream.

Iwata enjoyed both the distinctive appearance and the taste of the gelato.

For someone who also enjoys painting and design, experiencing food presented in such a creative way made for another memorable moment on his travels.

Buying Mānuka Honey Sweets at OK GIFT SHOP

One of the most interesting parts of Iwata's New Zealand journey connects directly with his everyday habits.

While exploring Auckland, he visited OK GIFT SHOP, a souvenir business originally established by the late Japanese entertainer and television personality Kyosen Ohashi.

The shop offers a range of New Zealand foods, gifts and souvenirs.

During his visit, Iwata purchased mānuka honey sweets.

The otona MUSE travel feature explained that he was already fond of mānuka honey sweets and regularly enjoyed them as part of his personal throat-care routine.

For Iwata, purchasing the sweets in New Zealand was an opportunity to pick up something familiar in a country closely associated with the ingredient.

Later in Auckland, he also experienced the waterfront dining scene, including SOUL BAR & BISTRO.

He enjoyed seafood and dishes featuring local ingredients, rounding out a journey full of different food experiences.

For his journey between Japan and Auckland, he travelled with Air New Zealand and also enjoyed the long-haul flight experience.

His New Zealand travels were featured in a collaborative travel video titled Takanori Iwata's Carefree World Trip in New Zealand (岩田剛典の気ままに世界旅 in New Zealand).

From coastal scenery and island dining to unique activities, gelato and honey sweets, the trip revealed Iwata's curiosity and enjoyment of discovering new places.