13 Best Japanese Beauty Products, Makeup Artist-Approved (2024)
Achieve flawless skin and healthy hair with these beauty products from Japan.
Cha Cha is a certified professional makeup artist, airbrush makeup artist, and beauty educator with over 20 years in the beauty industry. She is also the owner of Cha Cha Beauty Bar and has done extensive work in the bridal and special event categories.
Read full bio of Cha Cha Woska
Experience: 4 yearsJyotsana Rao is an engineering graduate from NIT, Nagpur, who discovered her love for writing during her undergraduate days. She is passionate about writing about everything related to beauty - makeup, fashion, hairstyles, skin care, or hair care and has 4 years of experience on writing in these genres.
Read full bio of Jyotsana Rao
Experience: 3 yearsSrijani is an associate commerce editor with a master's degree in journalism and mass communication from the University of Calcutta, West Bengal. She is certified in makeup techniques and is also a certified style and image consultant.
Read full bio of Srijani Roy Chowdhury
Experience: 2.5 yearsShatabdi is an associate editor and an alumnus of Lady Brabourne College, Kolkata, where she honed her skills and developed a deep understanding of the world of literature and expression. She has worked with various organizations and websites operating in different industries, ranging from education to lifestyle, showing her adaptability and drive to learn.
Read full bio of Shatabdi Bhattacharya
Image: StyleCraze Design Team
The best Japanese cosmetics and beauty products can make fifty-year-old models seem like they’re in their twenties. Japan’s cosmetic industry is a Disneyland of its own. With faces that never seem to age, hair that stays in place for days, and skin that does not have a single blemish, Japanese women use beautiful products to keep them looking flawless and youthful. If you love all things beauty, it is safe to say that you will never again need to look beyond the vast aisles of Japan’s beauty stores. From skincare essentials like the Deep Cleansing Oil to downright eccentric ones like the Placenta Eye Cream (no, we are not kidding), they have it all. If you want to start taking care of your skin, hair, and makeup seriously, you ought to take a peek into the treasure trove of these excellent Japanese beauty products.
In This Article
13 Best Japanese Beauty Products (Cosmetics)
That said, here’s a list of 13 freakishly awesome Japanese beauty products you absolutely must get your hands on!
1. Best Water-Soluble Formula:DHC Deep Cleansing Oil
The DHC Deep Cleansing Oil is a unique water-soluble formula that provides a thorough cleanse. Amongst the world’s leading cleansers and exfoliators in removing makeup, it also nourishes and hydrates the skin thanks to its fullness of vitamins and antioxidants, leaving your skin looking young and refreshed. If you want to find out more about this beauty skin care exfoliator and its usage, make sure to check out this review on YouTube to learn more about oil cleansing and the tester’s experience.
Pros
- Water soluble formulation
- Rich in vitamins and antioxidants
- Works on waterproof cosmetics too
Cons
- Some users have had issues with the oily composition of the product (verdict varies)
DHC Deep Cleansing Oil Review
As per reports, 92% of participants in a certain study agreed that the DHC Deep Cleansing Oil worked better than a leading cleansing product at removing makeup. Apparently, one bottle is sold every 10 seconds worldwide.
That alone should tell you what a punch this one product packs. DHC’s Deep Cleansing Oil is a runaway success with most people that use it, including yours truly. What I particularly like about this product is how easy it is to use. Come back home from a tiring day, get some of the oil in your hands, rub it on your dry face, and voila!, you’re done. I cannot remember the last time it was so easy to get makeup off my face, especially foundation. DHC’s Deep Cleanse Oil makes the process a breeze. It’s worked well on removing my waterproof mascara and eyeliner too. Some users have had issues with using oil on their faces as a cleanse, but I feel that’s a matter of personal choice. I find that getting the oil off the face is just as easy as applying it, as a few splashes of water helps get rid of ALL OF IT. No stickiness, no greasiness, just petal soft skin and a constant need to touch it!
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 5,397 reviews, this product has become a fan favorite among users.
Important Note: Certain users on Amazon have complained about getting the wrong product, or a rip-off. While we can’t be certain whether the fault lies with Amazon, the supplier, or the manufacturer, it would probably be a good idea for you to double check if the product you’ve received is the right one. It definitely is worth it.
2. Best Fragrance-Free:Tatcha The Serum Stick
The solid Serum Stick from Tatcha smooths away fine lines and addresses crepiness by locking in moisture. This weightless preparation is fortified with natural ingredients that combine to keep the skin looking fresh and feeling hydrated all day long. Japanese lemon balm helps to improve the skin from UV damage that causes signs of aging, while Tatcha’s signature trio of pure Japanese antioxidant-rich superfoods – Uji green tea, Okinawa red algae, and Akita rice – reveal soft, healthy-looking skin. Natural squalane works instantly to improve the skin’s barrier function and richly moisturizes it to minimize dryness, especially in winters. It creates a smooth base for makeup by melting into the skin seamlessly and offering glossy skin. Several reviewers highly recommend this product for preventing makeup from settling into lines. Wear it alone or under makeup for naturally glowing skin.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Locks in moisture
- Glides on easily
- Suitable for all skin types
- Non-comedogenic
- Non-irritating
- Non-sensitizing
- Fragrance-free
- Dermatologist tested
- Cruelty-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Synthetic fragrances-free
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
Cons
None
3. Best Fast-Absorbing:SK-II Facial Treatment Essence
The description for the product on Amazon reads ‘pure, lightweight miracle’, and rightly so. SK-II is a Facial Treatment Essence that absorbs quickly into the skin (read 15 seconds). Containing an anti-aging ingredient called Pitera created by the fermentation of rice. SK-II gently exfoliates and helps moderate the skin’s surface renewal cycle leaving your skin with a soft, gentle glow. In fact, the SK-II Facial Treatment Essence is a powerful product that works on all five dimensions of beautiful clear skin— dark spot corrector, reduction in the appearance of wrinkles, refined skin texture, improved firmness, and radiance. If you need further convincing on this Japanese dermatologist-tested anti-aging product, check out this YouTuber’s review to know more about the tester’s experience.
Pros
- All in one solution for five skin problems—spots, wrinkles, rough and dry skin, sagging and dullness.
- > 90% Pitera
- Removes dead skin cells
- Moisturizes the body
- Induces facial glow
Cons
- High-end product, price might be an issue
- Usage and instructions unavailable
- For visible difference, recommended to start early
SK-II Facial Treatment Essence Review
SK-II’s Facial Treatment Essence is a mixed bag, rather a bottle, of emotions for me. I’ve used it once or twice, and while it sure did seem refreshing, I didn’t notice any extraordinary change. While this could be because I’m still on the younger side of my twenties, and don’t have any skin issues as such, most friends and colleagues who’ve used this had a similar verdict. Mixed.
However, for those who it has worked, SK-II’s Facial Treatment Essence is a game changer, so much so that, price notwithstanding, they’ve stocked up on bottles of what they call ‘the miracle water’. An interesting observation I’ve made with people who it works for is that they started early, and by early I mean, late teens/early twenties. Such friends of mine have reported the appearance of less to no laugh lines or wrinkles, a cause for much envy amongst onlookers, and the reason why SK-II’s Facial Treatment Essence makes it to this list.
Pro Tip| DHC Deep Cleansing Oil Best Water-Soluble Formula | Tatcha The Serum Stick Best Fragrance-Free | SK-II Facial Treatment Essence Best Fast-Absorbing | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Type | All | All, Dry | - |
| Dimensions | 2.2 x 2 x 7.6 inches | - | 1.9 x 6.6 x 0.2 inches |
| Weight | 8 Ounces | - | 2.08 Ounces |
| Package Dimensions | - | 4.37 x 2.28 x 1.38 inches; 0.28 Ounces | - |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 5,397 | - | 124 |
| Price | $16 | $49 | $149.7 |
4. Best Collagen-Infused Formula:Lululun Precious Facial Mask
Make your skin softer and younger with the Lululun Precious Facial Mask. It provides luxurious daily treatment and targets aging signs. This facial mask for mature skin types is infused with a high concentration of collagen and a special plant-derived complex oil, L22, that manages sebum overproduction and restores its balance in oily to combination skin types. The product is efficacy tested to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles caused by dryness. It hydrates your dull, dry skin with a freshwater algae extract that has a much more intense moisture retention quality than hyaluronic acid. Additionally, the white Japanese rice extract infused in the mask exfoliates your skin, removes dark spots, and makes it smoother and shinier. It has three layers, with top and bottom layers distributing the essence in the skin, and the middle layer holding the beauty essence for efficient results. This one’s surely great for use on the skin!
Pros
- Lightweight
- Fast absorbing
- Effective
- Reduces wrinkles
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Sulfate-free
Cons
- May not be ideal for sensitive skin
Lululun Precious Facial Mask Review
This facial mask is available in three variants: green for skin maintenance, red for intensive hydration, and white for skin brightening, whitening, and firming. The natural collagen formula offers a mess-free application and leaves the skin hydrated. Though, it does not deserve the hype that has been created around it. Also the tissue-box style of packaging results in the sheets being drier overtime. But, give them a shot if you want to, as they refresh you.
5. Best Anti-Aging Benefits:Shiseido Fino Premium Touch Hair Mask
The Shiseido Fino Premium Touch Hair Mask is specially formulated for dull and damaged hair. It penetrates deep into your hair fiber for maintaining healthy hair. It restores, moisturizes, and adds shine to damaged locks to prevent further damage to the hair. The hair mask is formulated with the extracts of royal jelly, lipidure, along with squalene, glutamine, dimethicone, etc., to strengthen and nourish your dry hair. Reviewers highly recommend this mask to nourish processed hair and add instant shine to your tresses.
Pros
- Travel-friendly pack
- Anti-leakage lid
- Pleasant smell
- Smooth texture
- Pleasant scent
Cons
- None
Shiseido Fino Premium Touch Hair Mask Review
This hair mask has a heavy texture but is absorbed easily. It is efficient in detangling your hair, making it soft and smooth. You need to use it once or twice a week for clear visible results. The mask treats split ends, livens up dull strands, and also reduces frizz for a smoother and sleek look. However, use a little bit and apply away from the scalp to avoid them getting weighed down by heavy products.
Pro Tip6. Best Travel-Friendly Packaging:ONSEN Cuticle Conditioner Serum
The ONSEN Cuticle Conditioner Serum features the trademark Onsen Mineral Infusion for healthy and strong nails. The stain-free formula replenishes lost minerals, and keeps your nails soft and hydrated for a longer time. It is further fortified with shea butter, vitamin E, aloe vera extract, and Japanese wakame seaweed. This Japanese organic product provides luxurious and effective solutions for maintaining soft and supple cuticles.
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
- Fragrance-free
- Certified organic
- Safe for sensitive skin
Cons
- None
ONSEN Cuticle Conditioner Serum Review
Keep your nail bed and cuticle healthy with the daily use of this serum. It comes with a precision nozzle applicator for mess-free direct application. This serum is transparent and glides smoothly to treat the cuticles. It penetrates deeply without leaving behind any residue. The blend of powerful ingredients promotes healthy nail growth and also protects from bacterial growth
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 5,449 Amazon users have vouched for this amazing product.
7. Best Organic Formula:Keana Nadeshiko Rice Mask
The Keana Nadeshiko Rice Mask is formulated with 100% Japanese rice (bran rice) extract to treat dry and rough skin. These thick sheet masks are made to retain the skin’s moisture level and make your skin appear supple, firm, and smooth. It also reduces pore size to give you an even and nourished skin tone. Its refreshing feel and intense hydration have made it a favorite among many reviewers.
Pros
- Pleasant scent
- Thick
- Suitable for all skin types
- Value for money
Cons
- Mask size might be an issue for some
Keana Nadeshiko Rice Mask Review
This rice mask hydrates and moisturizes the skin and face to prevent the overproduction of sebum. It offers a refreshing feel and keeps your skin firm without losing elasticity. If you have large open pores, this mask works effectively by keeping the pores under control. However, you need to use it twice a week for better results.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has more than 970 reviews claiming its efficacy.
8. Best For Dry Skin:Hada Labo Super Hyaluronic Acid Lotion
The Hada Labo Super Hyaluronic Acid Lotion is a facial toner specially designed for dry skin that contains super hyaluronic acid—known to provide lasting and deep nourishment to the skin. It also doesn’t strip the body of essential oils. Oil, fragrance, colorant, and alcohol-free, it has a lightweight texture that is perfect for reducing fine lines and sensitivity and firming saggy skin. The premium version comes with five different kinds of vegan hyaluronic acid. Reviewers with sensitive skin rave about this product’s ability to provide instant hydration and even out the skin tone.
Pros
- Popular as a toner
- Oil, fragrance, colorant, and alcohol-free
- Lightweight
- Reduces fine lines, sensitivity, and lifts sagging skin
- Premium version is vegan
Cons
- More efficient with lotion masks than as a standalone product
Hada Labo Super Hyaluronic Acid Lotion Review
I came across the Hada Labo Super Hyaluronic Acid Lotion while reading up on Chizu Saeki’s Facial Lotion Mask technique. The fact that Japanese folk has amazing skin even in their mid-forties and fifties is a well-known fact, and thanks to Chizu Saeki for sharing their secrets to that.
The Hada Labo Super Hyaluronic Acid Lotion is a facial toner that when used according to the Facial Lotion Mask technique presents astonishing results. To start with, all I did was to wash my face with my regular cleanser. Now, instead of getting the toner on my hands and applying it directly to my face like I usually would, I used it on small cotton squares soaked in water (making sure to remove excess water) that I then applied to my face for three minutes, and done! The difference in efficiency from using it like a regular toner versus, with the facial mask lotion technique, was mind-boggling. My skin immediately felt lighter and refreshed. When used at night, it was nice to see that the puffiness reduced a hell of a lot too, AND carried over to the next day. Say whaaat! I love this thing and can honestly not get enough of it. You should definitely get it.
9. Best Lightweight Formula:Miccosmo White Label Premium Placenta Eye Cream
Miccosmo White Label is an entire range of products containing ‘carefully selected, Japanese made, placenta extract’ (yes, there is more to where this came from). The range has been designed to give the user soft and clear skin similar to that of a newborn baby’s. However, remember to conduct a patch test before application to check for skin sensitivity.
Pros
- Placenta extract
- Cost efficient
Cons
- Acceptability issues
Miccosmo White Label Premium Placenta Eye Cream Review
Don’t get so grossed out now, you guys, placenta in skin care might be quirky, but it’s a thing. Seeing how this product is specially formulated for dark circles, under eye puffiness, crows feet and fine lines around the eyes, I must say it did a fair job of solving not just one, but all those issues. I used it for puffiness while my mother tried it for fine lines and crows feet, and it actually worked! I’d certainly recommend it to you too, provided you’re ready to take the leap of faith with this one. Peace out.
10. Best Vibrant Shade:SANA Hadanomy Collagen Mist
SANA Hadanomy Collagen Mist is collagen, formulated ideally for dry and dull skin. It keeps the skin moisturized at all times, aids in retaining the moisture, and provides a dewy complexion.
Pros
- Easy-to-use
- Smooth texture
- Non-sticky
- Travel-friendly
Cons
- None
SANA Hadanomy Collagen Mist Review
The mist comes in an easy-to-use spray bottle, has a good fragrance, but is not beneficial for oily skin. It works well for blending foundation and concealer. It provides long-lasting moisture. The non-greasiness of the moisture helps for fresh and smooth skin.
11.Best Gentle Exfoliant:Suisai Cleansing Pods
A cult hit in Japan, Suisai’s cleansing pods are an enzymatic formulation contained within individual pods of cleansing powder that work as a gentle exfoliant. Rich in ingredients like royal jelly and tofu extract, they help brighten and tighten the skin. These cleansing pods work well against sweat, and small breakouts due to heat, dust, and pollution. Several reviewers love its deep cleansing action and have noticed clear pores and reduced blackheads.
Pros
- Enzyme rich, gentle exfoliant
- Help brighten and tighten skin
- Ease of application
Cons
- Not very travel-friendly as packaging is flimsy
Suisai Cleansing Pods Review
Suisai’s beauty cleanse powder comes in easy-carry cleansing pods that make it possible to clean up on the go. All you need is to get some powder on the hands, add water and massage onto the face to create a gentle foam. Back when I received my sample batch of them, I’d carry a couple of pods with me wherever I went as I loved how clean and light my skin would feel after use. It isn’t too harsh on the skin and doesn’t cause any breakouts. My only issue with them was that they needed to be carried separately in a Ziploc bag as the packaging is flimsy and tends to tear.
12.Best For Fresh Look:Naive Kracie Peach Leaf Face Wash
The 100% plant-based Kracie Face Wash from Naive is infused with peach leaf extract for extracting impurities from the skin and pores and sloughing away dirt. Several reviews highly praise this gently fragranced peach cleanser that washes away all dirt, grime, and build-up to leave the skin squeaky clean and fresh. It lathers into a thick emulsion and is enriched with squalene to strengthen the skin barrier and help the skin maintain its moisture level.
Pros
- Plant-based ingredients
- Rich lather
- Moisturizing
- Allergy-tested
- Paraben-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Alcohol-free
- Color-free
Cons
None
13.Best Long Lasting:Isehan Kiss Me Heroine Mascara Long and Curl
Isehan Kiss Me Heroine Mascara Long and Curl promises eyelashes that last for days. With an intense black formulation that provides great volume and curl, the Isehan mascara is a pocket-friendly product that is also waterproof.
Pros
- Intense black
- Voluminizing and curling
- Waterproof
- Pocket friendly
Isehan Kiss Me Heroine Mascara Long and Curl Review
Isehan, where have you been all my life?
If you had to pick just one product from a bunch of Japanese beauty products thrown at you, this ought to be your pick. No mascara has ever seemed to work for me as I’m dark and have moderately generous lashes. Isehan’s Kiss Me Heroine Mascara Long and Curl turned out to be a game changer for me though. Right from the first stroke, it voluminized and curled my lashes to the point that I look like I’m wearing falsies (that’s when you know it works!). I haven’t had a chance to test out its ‘super waterproofness’ yet, but by all accounts, that’s a win too. I don’t think I’m ever going to get myself any other mascara, I’m sold for life. You would be too, try it!
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With 5,480 positive reviews on Amazon, this product has become a bestseller.
*Subject to Availability
Final Word….
The Bottom Line
Ancient beauty traditions combined with modern science have ensured that there’s something for everyone in Japan’s beauty world. So whether you are looking for night creams to target wrinkles and have a younger-looking complexion or looking for makeup products to enhance your features, it is time for you to try out some Japanese beauty secrets from the wide range of products. For thorough washing and makeup removal, choose the DHC Deep washing Oil. The Shiseido Fino Premium Touch Hair Mask provides maximum moisture, nourishment, and restoration for hair. With the advantages of rice essence, the Keana Nadeshiko Rice Mask is a top choice for moisturizing skin. They all have skin care essentials, from deep cleansing oil to the placenta eye creams. Japanese beauty products offer exceptional results and will be your best investment if you want to take your makeup and skin care game up a notch!
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Japan have good skin care products?
Yes. Japanese skin care products are famous globally for their potency and effectiveness. Also, many praise Japanese skin care brands for their innovative skin technologies.
What is Japan’s number one skin care line?
Hada Labo Tokyo is Japan’s best-selling skin care brand.
How do the Japanese get flawless skin?
The seven ancient Japanese beauty secrets to flawless skin are:
• Exfoliating the skin with azuki bean paste.
• Applying rice, milk, and honey paste to the face.
• Adding green tea to almost all beauty routines.
• Taking a steam bath quite often.
• Incorporating Tsubaki oil into skin care and hair care essentials.
• Using vitamin C-rich products and adding the same nutrient to the diet.
• Eating a traditional balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, iodine, keratin, proteins, vitamins, dietary products, and minerals.
What is the secret of Japanese skin?
Japanese skin care routine involves double cleansing, skin exfoliator, sunscreen, and intense moisturization. Also, massaging the skin is an integral part of Japanese skin care.
Is Japanese skin care expensive?
Yes. Japanese skin care products are made of high-quality ingredients and innovative technologies. Therefore, they are highly effective and expensive. However, certain popular Japanese brands are pocket-friendly.
Is SK-II a Japanese brand?
Yes. SK-II is a multinational cosmetic brand from Japan.
Why do the Japanese look younger?
Japanese people maintain healthy eating habits. They consume less processed foods and avoid sugar-rich supplements. Also, they are very particular about skin care. Exfoliation, moisturization, and sun protection are integral to their skin care regime, contributing to their younger-looking skin.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author of this article, Jyotsana Rao, is a makeup fanatic. With her deep research on different Japanese makeup products, she always comes up with the best. She has curated the best Japanese beauty products list after extensive research and reading many online reviews from different forums. She says that these beauty products are a must-have to take excellent care of your hair and maintain a youthful look.
Read full bio of Cha Cha Woska
Read full bio of Jyotsana Rao
Read full bio of Srijani Roy Chowdhury
Read full bio of Shatabdi Bhattacharya
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