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 that is the Japanese market.

14 Best Japanese Beauty Products (Cosmetics)

That said, here’s a list of 14 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 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 product and its usage, make sure to check out this review on YouTube. 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!

2. Best For Exfoliation: Sumi Haigou Settuken Charcoal Bar Soap

The Sumi Haigou Settuken Charcoal Bar Soap is, as the name suggests, a special charcoal formulation. Being an adsorbent, charcoal is known for its efficiency at extracting impurities from the skin. Works especially well on all skin types. Exfoliates and moisturizes the body too. Pros

No dryness, or flaking Gently cleanses and exfoliates Good quantity product, lasts long (approx 1-2 months)

Cons

Mild but peculiar waxy fragrance Washes off gray

Sumi Haigou Settuken Charcoal Bar Soap Review

Charcoal seems to be the buzzword in skin care these days—activated charcoal soaps, bamboo charcoal soaps, handcrafted charcoal soaps—charcoal and its products are everywhere. I for one am not complaining though. My tryst with Sumi Haigou Settuken’s Charcoal Bar Soaps has been nothing short of a success. I have dry skin and dry hair because of which most drugstore soaps are a strict no-no for me, especially on the face. Sumi Haigou Settuken’s Charcoal Bar Soaps solve that problem though. Upon use, I found that the soaps don’t strip the body of any essential oils, leaving it moisturized at all times, including the face (woohoo!). An added benefit is that these soaps function as both cleansers and exfoliators, as they do a fine job of removing dirt and grease. During summers, I tend to have small breakouts on my face due to the heat (sweat, dust and pollution make for a bad combination). I’m happy to report that The Sumi Haigou Settuken’s Charcoal Bar Soaps helped deal with that problem to a great extent too. A Win for life!

3. Best Fast-Absorbing: SK-II Facial Treatment Essence

Pros

All in one solution for five skin problems—spots, wrinkles, rough and dry skin, sagging and dullness. > 90% Pitera Exfoliates 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. [ Read – SK-II Facial Treatment Essence Ingredients ]

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 is infused with a special plant-derived complex oil, L22, that manages sebum overproduction and restores its balance. 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 rice koji extract infused in the mask exfoliates your skin 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. 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 and firming. The mask 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. Locks in moisture, restores shine, and prevents 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 hair. 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 also reduces frizz for a smoother and sleek look. However, use a little bit and apply away from the scalp as too much product can weigh down your hair.

6. 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. 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 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

7. Best Organic Formula: Keana Nadeshiko Rice Mask

The Keana Nadeshiko Rice Mask is formulated with 100% Japanese rice extract to treat dry and rough skin. These thick sheets 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. 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 the skin and prevents 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.

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. Oil, fragrance, colorant, and alcohol-free, it is a lightweight solution 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. 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. 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, 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 keeps your skin smooth and fresh.

11. 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. 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. Oshima Tsubaki Oil

With 100% of camellia japonica seed oil, Oshima’s Tsubaki Oil is a natural way to restore the moisture and shine to your damaged locks. Packed with the goodness of oleic acids, the oil helps nourish dry hair, treat split ends and liven up dull strands. Can be used to moisturize the skin and face too. Pros

High concentration of Japanese Camellia seed oil Loaded with oleic acids Repairs split ends and dull strands, nourishes dry hair Can be used as a multi-purpose oil

Cons

Thick, viscous oil that could be inconvenient to apply Too much of it can weigh hair down

Oshima Tsubaki Oil Review

Tsubaki is an ancient Japanese beauty secret that has been used by successive generations of families in Japan. Almost everyone I know, comes back with a container of this from their trip to Japan. In fact, I too got my bottle from a relative who’d visited the place recently. I have shoulder length curly hair that easily gets weighed down by heavy products. Which happened to be my exact problem with this oil (people with thick hair might not have this problem). Even the three drops recommended for use before styling, as stated on the bottle, felt a bit much for me, because of which I stopped using it on my hair. However, I found that the oil is great for use on the skin, especially during the winters. It’s nourishing, soft, and a little goes a long way.

13. 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!

14. Kracie Simpro Hair Mascara

The Kracie Simpro Hair Mascara has been designed to save you from the hassle of constant dying. Touch up the roots with the easy to use comb applicator that finishes dye application in just 5 minutes. The natural collagen formula helps in maintaining healthy hair. Pros

Comb applicator enables easy usage Contains collagen Application completed in 5 minutes

Cons

Instructions in Japanese only Might contain allergy-causing ingredients. Patch test recommended

Kracie Simpro Hair Mascara Review

The unbelievable happened a few months ago—I spotted my first gray. It wasn’t quite the earth-shattering event I expected it to be, and thankfully the grays haven’t multiplied, but since I don’t yet qualify for a full-blown dye job, Kracie’s Hair Mascara was definitely a winner. The comb-like applicator is a huge plus over the brush kind. It does a fine job of concealing the grays and stays on for a decent amount of time too. As of now, my mother’s been using it more, to touch up her roots, and she loves it. Saves the need of having to dye them hair every month just coz a tiny patch shows up gray. Definitely a keeper product. *Subject to Availability Final Word….

Why Trust StyleCraze?

The author of this article, Jyotsana Rao, is a makeup fanatic. With her deep research on different 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. 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 beauty secrets to flawless Japanese 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, and minerals. What is the secret of Japanese skin? Japanese skin care routine involves double cleansing, sun protection, 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 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.

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