Recognition Inhibition

While not a universal concept among magical girls and boys, recognition inhibition is quite common. It is similar to the mysterious force that somehow prevents even intelligent people from recognizing that Superman is Clark Kent, even though the only real difference is the costume he is wearing and whether he has glasses on. Some magical folk do indeed still wear masks and other disguises on top of this function, either symbolically or functionally, but recognition inhibition does not require a physical concealment to work its wonders. This ability is especially useful to those that need to maintain their magical identity separately for some reason.

Recognition inhibition is typically engaged or disengaged as part of the henshin process, though some possess the supernatural ability to disengage it at will. Whether those that possess magical powers are able to see through the disguises that mundane people cannot varies from culture to culture. Additionally, recognition inhibition usually cannot keep people from piecing together obvious clues, nor will it make people forget slips of the tongue, so caution must still be exercised when dealing with those the so-disguised interacts with on a daily basis.

This power is frequently used by both those with good intentions and those with a less pure-hearted agenda. For malevolent forces, it can often be a boon to their work as they can keep a more ephemeral presence in human society, changing identities and roles as required. However, the recognition inhibition of their enemies is likewise problematic, and it is a side objective of many dealing with the nuisance of disguised heroes to uncover their true selves.