On December 18, actress Minami Hamabe graced the stage at the '2024 BITEKI Best Cosmetics Awards' held at a hotel in Tokyo. The annual award is presented to individuals voted as the 'most radiant person of the year' by readers of the popular beauty magazine BITEKI. This prestigious honor puts Hamabe among notable past winners like Satomi Ishihara, who has been inducted to the hall of fame, and fellow actresses Keiko Kitagawa and Haruka Ayase.
During the ceremony, Hamabe expressed her joy at winning the 2024 'BITEKI Best Beauty Woman' award. She reflected on the past year with friends, stating, 'Looking back, I felt sentimental contemplating what I have accomplished, but receiving this award made me feel extremely honored, enough to give myself 100 points for the year.' Her radiant smile lit up the room when she discussed her thoughts on beauty and well-being.
Hamabe elaborated on her beauty secrets, stating, 'I often meet with beauty professionals and constantly read magazines to update my beauty knowledge. I am also mindful of sun exposure and dryness, but this year, I surprisingly started exercising! By taking up walking, I feel like my skin and my health have significantly improved.' She revealed, 'I go for long walks, which I would describe more as leisurely strolls. I am aiming to make this a weekly habit, walking for about two hours at least once weekly. I've noticed I'm less prone to swelling and my skin issues have reduced.' Her lightheartedness about her workouts, coupled with her commitment to maintaining self-care, revealed her relatability and desire to inspire others.
The award ceremony also featured other honorees, including Haruka Sugino, who was recognized as 'BITEKI Best Beauty Man', and Yuki Uchida, who was celebrated as 'BITEKI GRAND Best Beauty Woman', indicating the event's broad acknowledgment of beauty across genders.
Hamabe described the award as both delightful and humbling, as she enjoys the support from various age groups who appreciate her versatility as both actress and beauty icon. This year’s awards were determined by more than 20,580 reader votes alongside evaluations from esteemed beauty experts. Hamabe’s growing list of fan accolades is no surprise as she continues to shine brightly, both on-screen and as a beauty role model.
Reported by the Shogakukan magazine, the expert panel selects winners based on extensive criteria including innovation in beauty products, excellence, and widespread appeal among consumers. Hamabe's success aligns with the magazine's efforts to create platforms where readers can influence beauty culture actively.
Looking forward, Hamabe has big plans for her career and personal life. She shared her aspiration for 2025, declaring, 'I want this year to be one of training and discipline. With multiple projects lined up, I will focus on self-improvement and how I can contribute to my work, aiming to do everything with my full heart and earnestness.' She humorously noted she recently purchased calligraphy supplies, intending to set her intentions for the year through writing. This notion of using the new year to refocus resonates with many, inviting them to pursue personal growth alongside her.
Hamabe wrapped up her remarks, noting her excitement for the February issue of BITEKI, which features her on the cover. The issue promises to reveal her beauty tips and moments from her career, solidifying her status as one of the industry’s most influential figures. Reflection on her career suggests continued momentum as viewers anticipate her upcoming ventures, including her lead role in the film 'Under Ninja' slated for release next month, and her participation in the period drama 'Toyotomi Brothers' set for 2026.
Hamabe's infectious energy and authenticity resonate deeply with her fans, proving yet again why she is considered one of the breakout stars of her generation. 'BITEKI' is sure to inspire readers with her insights on beauty and maintaining balance amid professional commitments.