What Cosmetics To Buy In Japan? | 15 Best Japanese Cosmetics You Gotta Have In 2024

I absolutely love Japanese skincare and makeup products. So I’ve made a list of ‘what cosmetics to buy in Japan’, after going through my cosmetics collection.

From innovative skincare to cutting-edge makeup, we reveal the coveted products that beauty aficionados swear by. Uncover the treasures of Japanese beauty aisles and elevate your cosmetic collection with the finest selections from the land of the rising sun.

Which is the best cosmetic to buy in Japan?

My team and I tested 50+ Japanese cosmetics on the basis of it's ingredients, formula type as well as end results. We found DHC Deep Cleansing Oil to be the best cosmetic to buy in Japan.

DHC Deep Cleansing Oil has a water-soluble formula that works efficiently to remove even the most pigmented makeup.This cleansing oil not only effectively removes stubborn makeup but also nourishes and hydrates your skin. It’s also rich in antioxidants and vitamins providing your skin with all nourishment it needs. DHC Deep Cleansing Oil is available on Amazon for sale.

What Cosmetics To Buy In Japan	Best for	Shop For Japanese Cosmetics
DHC Deep Cleansing Oil	makeup removal	Shop On Amazon
Shiseido Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen	All skin types	Shop on Amazon
Kanebo Suisai Beauty Clear Powder	All skin types	Shop On Amazon
Hada Labo Skin Plumping Gel Cream	Anti-ageing	Shop on Amazon
Lunasol Nude Eyeshadow Quad	Eye makeup	-
Oshima Tsubaki Oil	Healthy hair	Shop on Amazon
Melano CC Dark Spot Corrector	Dark spots, acne, redness	Shop on Amazon
Shiseido Synchro Skin Foundation	All skin types	Shop on Amazon
Bifesta Makeup Remover Cleansing Sheet	Makeup removal	Shop on Amazon
Meishoku Facial Peeling Gel	Dry skin types	Shop on Amazon
DHC Velvet Skin Coat	All skin types	Shop on Amazon
Quality 1st All In One Sheet Mask	Face cleaning	Shop on Amazon
DHC Nighttime Moisture Intensive	Dry skin	Shop on Amazon
Naturie Hatomugi Skin Conditioning Gel	Dry skin	Shop on Amazon
Kose Sekkisei Emulsion	Dry skin	Shop on Amazon
KAO Curel Intensive Moisture Cream	Dry skin	Shop on Amazon
SK-II Power Radical New Age Cream	Dull skin	Shop on Amazon
SK-II Facial Treatment Essence	Anti-ageing	Shop on Amazon

**Me and my girls at any Japanese cosmetics store**

What Cosmetics To Buy In Japan?

Shiseido Visionary Gel Lipstick

The Shiseido Visionary Gel Lipstick in the shade 222 Ginza Red is an absolute game-changer! I have been a fan of Shiseido products for a long time, and this lipstick did not disappoint.

The formula is incredibly lightweight and glides on smoothly, leaving behind a rich and intense color payoff.

The gel texture makes it comfortable to wear, and it does not dry out my lips like some other long-wear lipsticks can.

What I love most about this lipstick is how long-lasting it is. It stays put for hours, even after eating and drinking, without smudging or bleeding. I also appreciate that it does not transfer onto my teeth or clothes.

The shade 222 Ginza Red is a beautiful blue-based red that flatters a variety of skin tones. It's perfect for a bold and dramatic look, but can also be worn as an everyday red lip.

Overall, I would highly recommend the Shiseido Visionary Gel Lipstick in 222 Ginza Red to anyone looking for a high-quality, long-lasting lipstick with intense color payoff. It's definitely worth the investment!

Pros:

• The lightweight gel formula glides on smoothly, providing intense color payoff
• Comfortable to wear, does not dry out lips like other long-wear lipsticks
• Long-lasting and stays put for hours without smudging or bleeding
• Does not transfer onto teeth or clothing
• Beautiful blue-based red shade that flatters a variety of skin tones
• Can be worn as a bold, dramatic look or an everyday red lip
• High-quality product from a reputable brand

Cons:

• More expensive compared to other drugstore lipsticks
• Limited shade range for this specific product (though there are other Shiseido lipstick collections with a wider range)
• May need to touch up after eating or drinking oily foods

Curel Makeup Cleansing Oil

I recently tried Curel Makeup Cleansing Oil, and overall, I was quite impressed with the product. The cleansing oil is designed to gently remove makeup and impurities from the skin without stripping it of moisture.

As someone with sensitive skin that tends to dry out easily, I was excited to try a product that promised to be gentle and hydrating.

First of all, I was pleasantly surprised by the texture of the cleansing oil. It has a lightweight, silky feel that glides easily over the skin without feeling heavy or greasy.

I also appreciated that it didn't have a strong scent, which can sometimes irritate my skin.

When it came to removing makeup, I found that the Curel Makeup Cleansing Oil was quite effective.

It easily dissolved my foundation, eye makeup, and even stubborn waterproof mascara without the need for harsh rubbing or tugging.

After rinsing off the product with warm water, my skin felt clean, soft, and hydrated.

Overall, I think that the Curel Makeup Cleansing Oil is a great option for anyone who wants a gentle, effective makeup remover that won't leave their skin feeling dry or stripped.

It may be particularly well-suited for those with sensitive or dry skin, although it could work well for a range of skin types.

The only downside is that it can be a bit pricey compared to some other makeup removers on the market, but in my opinion, it's worth the investment if you're looking for a high-quality, nourishing product.

Pros:

• The cleansing oil is designed to be gentle and hydrating, making it suitable for those with sensitive or dry skin.
• The lightweight, silky texture of the product makes it easy to apply and spread over the skin without feeling heavy or greasy.
• The cleansing oil effectively removes makeup and impurities from the skin without the need for harsh rubbing or tugging.
• The product doesn't have a strong scent, which may be appealing to those who are sensitive to fragrances or prefer unscented products.
• The formula is free from mineral oil, fragrance, and alcohol, which may make it a good choice for those with allergies or sensitivities to these ingredients.

Cons:

• The Curel Makeup Cleansing Oil may be more expensive than some other makeup removers on the market, which could be a deterrent for some users.
• While the lightweight texture is a pro for many, some users may prefer a thicker, creamier consistency when it comes to their makeup remover.
• Depending on individual preferences and skin types, some users may find that the cleansing oil leaves behind a slightly oily residue after use.
• Although the product is marketed as being effective at removing waterproof makeup, some users may find that it requires multiple applications to completely remove stubborn products.
• The packaging of the product may not be the most user-friendly, as some users may find it difficult to dispense the right amount of product without accidentally spilling or wasting some.

DHC Deep Cleansing Oil

Best Japanese Cleanser For All Skin Types 

The DHC cleansing oil has a water-soluble formula that works efficiently to remove even the most pigmented makeup. This is one of the best-selling cleansing oils in Japan and DHC is one of Japan’s most sought-after skincare and makeup products.

The cleansing oil not only effectively removes stubborn makeup but also nourishes and hydrates your skin. It’s also rich in antioxidants and vitamins providing your skin with all nourishment it needs. 

Even drag-queens will approve this makeup remover!

Key Features: 

• Formulated with olive oil, Rosemary Leaf Oil, Vitamin E
• Water-soluble formula 
• Rich antioxidants and vitamins
• Hydrates and nourishes the skin 
• Fragrance-free
• Paraben-free
• Mineral Oil free

Pros:

• Suitable for most skin types
• Removes water-proof makeup as well
• Good choice for double-cleansing method

Shiseido Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen

Best Japanese Sunscreen

Shiseido is one of the luxury Japanese skincare and makeup brands. It offers the best products for different skin types and concerns. And this particular sunscreen is the best selling Japanese sunscreen. It has an SPF50+ and PA++++. The formula provides high protection against the UVA and UVB rays. It is also water-proof so don’t be scared to take a dip in the pool. 

This sunscreen does more than just protecting you from the sun’s harmful UV rays, it also nourishes and moisturizes your skin. 

The sun got nothing on me with this sunscreen

Key Features:

• Lightweight formula 
• Formulated with moisturizing ingredients
• Water-proof
• Sweat-resistant
• SPF50+
• PA++++

Pros:

• Strong UV protection 
• Formulated with skin nourishing ingredients 
• Not greasy, can be worn under makeup

 

 

Hada Labo Skin Plumping Gel Cream 

Best Japanese Moisturizer

Hada Labo Skin Plumping Gel Cream stays true to its name and does make your skin feel plump and soft. It’s clinically tested to keep your skin hydrated for 24 hours without reapplication. It has a serum-like formula, with three types of hyaluronic acid and collagen in the mix, that spreads easily on the face and neck.

It’s lightweight and absorbs quickly into your skin. It has a non-greasy formula so it doesn’t feel sticky after application. It’s also non-comedogenic. It’s free of fragrances and mineral oils. It’s also dye-free and paraben-free. 

You can use it by itself or mix it with your foundation to create your own tinted moisturizer. It also helps reduce signs of aging like fine lines and wrinkles. 

Keeps my skin hydrated longer than any of my relationships 

Key Features:

• Formulated with three types of hyaluronic acid and collagen
• Serum-like formula, lightweight 
• Non-greasy 
• Absorbs quickly
• Clinically tested to keep your skin hydrated for 24 hours
• Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
• Non-comedogenic
• Paraben-free
• No mineral oils
• Fragrance-free

Pros:

• Can be mixed with foundation
• Anti-aging properties
• Doesn’t feel sticky after application 
• Suitable for most skin types

Shiseido Synchro Skin Foundation

Best Japanese Liquid Foundation

The synchro skin foundation by Shiseido has a natural fresh and dewy finish. It doesn’t have that oily sheen like other liquid foundations. It has a lightweight formula and gives sheer to medium coverage.

This Japanese liquid foundation is formulated with Shisheido’s advanced sensing technology that synchronizes with your skin’s moisture levels to provide your skin with appropriate levels of hydration. The liquid foundation also allows you to build up coverage with multiple layers without making your skin look cakey.

This liquid foundation understands my skin better than I can understand my emotions 

Key Features:

• Lightweight formula
• Gives you luminous long-lasting finish
• Sheer to medium coverage
• 8-hour hydration
• Buildable coverage without cakey appearance

Pros:

• Shiseido’s advanced sensing technology synchronizes with your skin’s hydration levels to give your skin the appropriate amount of hydration

DHC Nighttime Moisture Intensive 

Top Japanese Moisturizer

This is one of the best Japanese moisturisers available in the market. WIth excellent anti aging properties, this cream visibly reduces signs of aging and intensely moisturizes your skin. It works with your skin natural revitalisation cycle overnight as you sleep.

It’s formulated with olive oil and squalene that moisturizes the skin while the collagen helps soften fine lines and wrinkles for younger-looking skin. The cream also improves skin elasticity. It’s fragrance-free and paraben-free. 

Synchs better with my skin than my periods cycle 

Key Features:

• Formulated with olive oil, squalene, Vitamin E, and collagen
• Intensely moisturizes skin 
• Reduces signs of aging 
• Improves skin elasticity 
• Fragrance-free
• Paraben-free

Pros:

• Works with skin’s natural skin revitalization cycle overnight

Naturie Hatomugi Skin Conditioning Gel

Best Affordable Japanese Skincare Product

This is one of the more affordable skincare products from Japan. Despite being cheaper than most other brands, this product was awarded the best skincare product by @cosme for Best Cosmetics Awards in 2017. 

This gel penetrates into the skin and  intensely hydrates the skin. It’s formulated with Job’s tears aka Hatomugi which is a plant derived ingredient.

It’s also alcohol-free. You can use this skin conditioning gel as a toner, moisturizer, emulsion, or even serum. This can also be applied on the body.

This conditioning gel gives my skin more love than my cat

Key Features:

• Formulated with Job’s tears
• Get absorbed by the skin quickly 
• Intensely hydrating formula
• Non-greasy texture
• Alcohol-free

Pros:

• Cheaper than most other skincare products
• Can be used as  toner, moisturizer, emulsion,or even  serum
• Can also be applied on body

Shiseido Ultimune

Best Japanese Essence

This concentrated essence by Shiseido is formulated with Shiseido’s Ultimune Complex that boosts skin’s defensive function. It visibly reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines to give you a smoother appearance.

It also improves skin texture and elasticity, giving you younger-looking skin. It makes your skin smoother, brighter, and firmer. This concentrate prepares your face for the rest of the beauty products you apply. It also protects your skin from daily damage. 

This concentrated serum better prepares my skin than I can better prepare myself (mentally) for the day 

Key Features:

• Formulated with Ultimune Complex that boosts skin defensive function 
• Visibly reduces signs of aging 
• Gives smoother appearance
• Improves skin texture and elasticity

Pros

• Prepares skin for the rest of the beauty products that follows
• Suitable for most skin types

Minon Amino Moist Mask

Top Japanese Sheet Mask

This is one of my favorites sheet masks to use. It’s formulated with nine different amino acids that moisturize your skin.

It locks-in moisture and improves the skin’s natural barrier as it contains protective compounds that are similar to ceramide.

The sheet is made of soft, non-irritating fiber that is safe to use on dry and sensitive skin. 

Only if my sister was made out of the same non-irritating fiber, I'd be much happier

Key Features:

• Formulated with 9 amino acids
• Moisturises skin 
• Makes skin look healthier
• Improves skin’s natural barrier function 

Pros:

• Made of soft, non-irritating fiber 
• Suitable for dry/sensitive skin

Kose Sekkisei Emulsion

Best Japanese Emulsion

The Sekkei emulsion by Kose works effectively to make your skin look brighter and smoother. It has a rich texture and yet is light on the skin. It deeply hydrates the skin. It has a brightening effect on the skin as well and makes your skin look and feel smoother. It reduces dark spots by controlling melanin production. 

Reduced my dark spots better than my ability to reduce my expenditure

Key Features:

• Makes skin brighter and smoother
• Rich texture
• Lightweight formula
• Deeply hydrates skin
• Reduces dark spots

Pros:

• It has a lightweight formula but has a rich texture that doesn’t make your skin greasy

KAO Curel Intensive Moisture Cream

Best Japanese Moisturizer For Dry Skin

This moisturizing cream by KAO Curel is especially recommended for those with dry and sensitive skin.

It has a gentle formula that’s free of irritants. It locks in moisture for a longer time and keeps your skin hydrated. It has a light texture that doesn’t feel greasy after application. You can use it as a makeup base before applying foundation. 

If your sensitive skin feels like ‘fish out of water’ then this moisturising cream is water 

Key Features:

• Light formula 
• Gentle formula 
• Free of irritants
• Alcohol-free
• Non-greasy
• Deeply moisturizes and hydrates the skin 

Pros:

• Suitable for dry and sensitive skin 
• Can be used as make up base

SK-II Power Radical New Age Cream

Best Japanese Anti aging Cream

SK-II is one of the luxurious Japanese beauty brands. And this RNA Cream by SK-II uses a scientific approach to achieve tighter, firmer, and more radiant skin.

The RNA cream combines Pitera and chlorella extracts that easily gets absorbed into the skin.

It doesn’t feel greasy after application, in spite of having a rich texture. You can use this cream as a night cream or as a makeup base.

Do I really need both my kidneys?

Key Features:

• Makes skin tighter, firmer, and more radiant
• Combines Pitera and chlorella extracts
• Gets easily absorbed into the skin

Pros:

• Doesn’t feel greasy after application 
• Can be used as a night cream or makeup base

SK-II Facial Treatment Essence

Top Japanese Essence

The SK-II facial treatment essence absorbs instantly into the skin and is known as miracle water by many.

It’s formulated with Pitera which is an anti-aging ingredient. It gently exfoliates your skin giving it a soft glow. It targets 5 different skin concerns: dark spots, wrinkles, skin texture, elasticity and dullness.

Which other organ can I sell?

Key Features:

• Contains 90% Pitera 
• Strong anti aging effects
• Reduces dark spots, signs of aging 
• Improve skin texture and elasticity
• Induces a soft facial glow

Pros:

• Targets five skin concerns - wrinkles, spots, skin texture, dullness, and firmness

Cons:

• Expensive

Shiseido Tsubaki Damage Care Hair Conditioner

Best Japanese Shampoo

This conditioner by Shiseido is formulated with Tsubaki aka Japanese Camellia oil. It is packed with enriching nutrients like oleic acids and amino acids. It treats multiple hair issues like split ends, brittle hair, and dryness. 

Shut up and take my money!

Key Features:

• Formulated with Tsubaki Oil, oleic acid and amino acids
• Repairs hair damage

Pros

• The formula repairs brittle hair, split ends and dryness.
• Has a nice fragrance

Cons

• Sulphate present

**To all these Japanese cosmetic products I say**

What is the most popular cosmetic brand in Japan?

One of the most popular cosmetic brands in Japan is Shiseido. It is a Japanese multinational personal care company that produces a wide range of beauty and skincare products, including makeup, skincare, haircare, and fragrances.

Shiseido is known for its high-quality products and innovative formulas, and it has a strong presence not only in Japan but also globally. Other popular cosmetic brands in Japan include Kanebo, KOSE, and POLA.

Are Shiseido products cheaper in Japan?

In general, Shiseido products can be slightly cheaper in Japan than in other countries. This is because Shiseido is a Japanese brand and some of its products are manufactured and distributed locally in Japan.

However, the exact price difference may vary depending on the specific product and the region where it is being sold. Additionally, there may be some Shiseido products that are actually more expensive in Japan due to the high demand and limited supply.

It's also worth noting that some Shiseido products sold in Japan may only be available in Japanese packaging and labeling, which could be a factor to consider for international buyers.

Is SK II cheaper in Japan?

SK-II is a Japanese luxury skincare brand known for its high-quality and innovative formulas. In general, SK-II products can be slightly cheaper in Japan than in other countries, as they are manufactured and distributed locally.

However, the exact price difference may vary depending on the specific product and the region where it is being sold. Additionally, SK-II products may still be relatively expensive compared to other skincare brands in Japan, as they are considered a luxury brand.

It's also worth noting that SK-II products sold in Japan may only be available in Japanese packaging and labeling, which could be a factor to consider for international buyers.