Kao Launches New and Improved "Relief Just Like Underwear" Adult Diaper, Featuring an Ultra-Thin 1mm* Design to Reduce Resistance

Kao Corporation's excretion care brand "Relief" will release a new and improved version of its adult diaper "Relief Just Like Underwear" on May 23, 2026. Since its launch in 2009, "Relief Just Like Underwear" has been well-received by many customers as an ultra-thin paper pant that supports a comfortable daily life with its underwear-like feel. The improved product achieves a new thinness of 1mm*. It does not show through clothing, providing a natural rear view and alleviating appearance-related anxieties. It helps reduce the "resistance to adult diapers" often faced during initial adoption, supporting a comfortable life for both the individual and their caregiving family. *When the seat part is stretched (equivalent to when worn) From left, "Relief Just Like Underwear" White M~L 18-pack / Sakura Pink M~L 16-pack. Background of the Launch In recent years, the number of people newly certified for nursing care has exceeded one million annually. Accordingly, the number of working carers who provide care for their families while working is also increasing, making the balance between work and care a major issue. According to a Kao survey (2025), about 40% of families in the "mild care level," which is the entry point for adult diapers, have faced "rejection of diapers by the individual." Negative images associated with wearing adult diapers, such as "it's embarrassing if people find out" and "it's bulky and unpleasant," also become factors that hinder going out to day services and impede independence. Therefore, we have improved "Relief Just Like Underwear" to achieve an "ultra-thin 1mm*" design that individuals can wear without resistance. By reducing the psychological resistance to diapers, it alleviates hesitation to go out or use day services, supporting a secure daily life for both the individual and their family. *When the seat part is stretched (equivalent to when worn) Product Name / Content / Price *Manufacturer's suggested retail price is not set. *Can be used by both men and women. Launch Date / Region May 23, 2026 / Nationwide ●Slim rear view that doesn't show through clothes! There is no characteristic diaper bulkiness, so others won't notice you are wearing them*. *When the seat part is stretched (equivalent to when worn) *Appearance may vary depending on usage conditions. Product Features Reason for thinness ① "Just Like Underwear" uses an ultra-thin 1mm* material. It's as thin as regular underwear. Reason for thinness ② Employs Kao's proprietary stretch fabric (patented technology). The fabric surface is flat, so the characteristic diaper bulkiness is not a concern. ●Quickly absorbs instantly! Prevents shifting and leaks even when moving around. Quickly absorbs urine equivalent to two voids. You can feel secure even during long outings. ●Prevents stuffiness and odor. The "fully breathable" material prevents moisture buildup. Uses deodorant polymers for powerful ammonia odor elimination. You won't have to worry about distance from others. ●Available in two color options! Eligible for medical expense deductions. Future Initiatives For working carers in their 50s and 60s who are struggling with their family's adoption of diapers, we will launch new TV commercials, as well as implement newspaper advertising and sampling. Additionally, to allow customers to try the product easily, we will also run a full money-back guarantee campaign for eligible "Relief" products starting in May 2026. ■Relief Brand Site https://www.kao.co.jp/relief/ ■Relief Just Like Underwear Product Page https://www.kao.co.jp/relief/lineup/marushita/ Kao Relief & Deodorant Strong PR Office TEL: 03-6280-2888 MAIL: info@ap-anchor.jp