Hey there, fellow makeup enthusiast. Are you always buying makeup for yourself, wanting to experiment with different looks and styles?
You are in for a treat (which includes a whole lot of cosmetics)!
You can never own enough makeup. This guide is made for you to satisfy all your makeup requirements. Get introduced to a variety of cosmetics and some of the best Japanese makeup, in the market and relive the excitement of using new tints, highlighters, foundation, lipsticks and so much more.
Japanese Makeup Style
Just like in any other culture, Japanese makeup style has also evolved over the years. Today’s it is more about mixing and combining new, exciting, quirky looks, which results in something unique.
What made Japanese makeup styles hit the mainstream was their refreshing nature, which focuses on defining the features while keeping the overall look natural and youthful.
Usually, a matte base is preferred, which creates a natural canvas for other products to be applied on. Lots of blush under the eye, natural unkempt, arched brows, shimmer on the eyes, a little wing look with the eyeliner, finished with copious amounts of lip tint that makes a gradient, soft look, and there you have your perfect Japanese look ready.
14 of the Best Japanese Makeup Products
SKIN CONDITIONER
BJI Rating: 4.4/5
The Hyaluronic Lotion Moist by Hada Lobo must be added to your makeup essentials right away. It is applied after using a cleanser and before using a toner. The main benefit of this lotion is that it helps soften your skin.
The hydrating properties of this lotion keep your skin supple and give it a youthful glow. The moisture of the skin is balanced by providing ample hydration. Go for this if you have dry skin and get major breakouts now and then.
The consistency of the liquid is very thin, which makes it easy to apply. It is fragrant-free and can also be used as a lip scrub or exfoliator to remove dead skins.
WHAT WE LIKED:
- It is easy to apply and feels very gentle on the skin.
- Highly suitable for all skin types.
- Lightweight and is quickly absorbed by the skin.
- It does not feel sticky or uncomfortable.
- A little bit goes a long way.
WHAT WE DIDNT LIKE:
- Can cause breakouts on extremely sensitive skin.
FOUNDATION
BJI Rating: 4.6/5
One of my most favourite Japanese beauty products, the MAQuillAGE Dramatic Powdery UV Foundation by Shiseido is my go-to foundation on days when I want something light on my face, yet it provides excellent coverage.
The mousse component makes the foundation extremely lightweight and helps to even out skin, conceal marks, and enhance the complexion.
If you are struggling with open pores and are unable to find an inexpensive method to hide it, this foundation does the job pretty well.
WHAT WE LIKED:
- Has an SPF20 PA++. Wear it comfortably without the risk of sunburns.
- Apply it with a primer to make it last for hours without the need to reapply.
- The foundation is durable and easy to use. A great option for beginners.
WHAT WE DIDNT LIKE:
- Not available in many skin shades.
PRIMER
BJI Rating: 4.5/5
When I have a jam-packed day ahead but want to make my skin feel and look good, I cannot do without the Tatcha The Silk Canvas primer. This is an absolute game-changer in the makeup field.
Have clogged pores? Apply this primer. Having breakouts? Apply this primer. Makeup not sitting well on your face? Apply this primer. There is nothing this primer is incapable of doing when it comes to making your skin feel young and fresh.
WHAT WE LIKED:
- Can be used for the face, eyes, and the lips.
- Makes the skin feel nourished and hydrated.
- Has a very delightful smell.
- Easy to apply.
- Reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
- Cruelty-free, ideal for all skin types, parabens free, and dermatologically tested.
WHAT WE DIDNT LIKE:
- Might not sit well on dry skin.
CONCEALER
BJI Rating: 4.2/5
The Etvos mineral concealer palette features three colours in one- orange beige, natural beige, and ochre beige. If you want a silky finish on your skin with a product that glides on smoothly, this could be a worthwhile purchase.
You can either use each shade separately as per your skin tone, or a mix of all three to form the perfect combination. This product is free from mineral oil and talc and comes with a brush for application. Use this to remove acne and blemishes, and even your skin tone.
WHAT WE LIKED:
- Enjoy three shades in one at an amazing price point.
- The creamy texture feels incredibly comfortable.
- Doesn’t feel heavy on the skin.
- Paraben and silicone-free.
- The packaging is durable and easy to travel with.
WHAT WE DIDNT LIKE:
- Might not match all skin tones.
BJI Rating: 4.1/5
The Shiseido Spotscover foundation is a holy-grail product for makeup lovers like you and me. You can use this product as a foundation for your face. You can also use it to conceal certain parts of your face.
Hide your blemishes, visibly reduce pigmentation, and cover your acne with just a little amount of this foundation. The finish of this product is what makes it so popular. It not only gives a seamless look but you also don’t feel like you’ve put on any makeup, at all.
WHAT WE LIKED:
- Doesn’t give a cakey look and provides excellent coverage.
- Finish it off with a makeup powder to make it last all day.
- It is fairly priced.
- Easy application. Glides smoothly on the face.
WHAT WE DIDNT LIKE:
- Can pose problems while trying to cover under-eye dark circles.
CHEEKS
BJI Rating: 4.6/5
This CANMAKE cream cheek is a great investment if you are looking forward to creating the perfect Japanese makeup look. The gel-type texture of this cheek product feels soft on your finger and turns dry once applied on the cheeks.
A vibrant colour that matches multiple skin tones, this cheek tint can be built up according to your requirements. It can be used over powder foundations and liquid foundations without making the base move.
WHAT WE LIKED:
- Highly adhesive on the skin and lasts a long time.
- Does not cause any irritation.
- It is highly pigmented.
- Easy to apply and does not look cakey or dry.
- Can be applied directly with the tip of the fingers.
WHAT WE DIDNT LIKE:
- The packaging could be improved.
BJI Rating: 4.2/5
How well you apply your cheek product can make or break the whole Japanese makeup style you’d be aiming for. The Sugao Souffle Feeling Cheek & Lips is a multifunctional product.
Use this product for bright cheeks or to create a soft, subtly-tinted lip makeup look, chiefly what Japanese makeup looks are known for. Just a small amount of the product is required to complete the whole look.
WHAT WE LIKED:
- A great product to make your face look lively and give your skin a bit of colour.
- It can be used over sensitive skin as well.
- Easy to build up according to your requirement.
WHAT WE DIDNT LIKE:
- Does not come with an applicator.
MASCARA
BJI Rating: 4.0/5
One of the most popular Japanese cosmetics, this long and curl mascara by Kiss Me Heroine Make is a long-lasting, black coloured mascara, made to curl your eyelashes to perfection.
The velvety consistency of this mascara not only makes it easy to apply but is also super-light. The applicator makes it easy to spread the product all over the lashes without creating lumps.
WHAT WE LIKED:
- The formula is thin, light, and smooth.
- It is made with camomile extracts that keep the eyelashes nourished and smooth.
- The product is easy to take off.
- It is waterproof, sweatproof, greaseproof, and tearproof.
WHAT WE DIDNT LIKE:
- If you have an oily under the eye, the mascara might smudge due to its flaky nature.
BJI Rating: 4.1/5
A newly improved formula by Dejav, this Fiberwig Ultra Long Mascara is a pure black mascara that can be used to lengthen your eyelashes. It coats individual eyelashes without creating a coagulated effect.
The ultra-long applicator makes the process easy and helps to reach the roots of the lashes. The formula of this mascara is free from any harmful substances that may irritate your eyes.
WHAT WE LIKED:
- A clump-free formula that is best suited to intensify the length of your eyelashes.
- Easy to remove with lukewarm water.
- Very minimal flaking.
WHAT WE DIDNT LIKE:
- During the initial stages of application, the product might seem a little watery.
EYELASH CURLER
BJI Rating: 4.5/5
When you want to create the illusion of bigger and brighter eyes, use the Shu Uemura Eyelash Curler. It helps to lengthen your eyelashes without applying mascara or any other eyelash product.
It helps you define the shape of your eye and make it wide open when it looks drowsy. The curler is sizable and can be carried around easily. It is a must-have product for your makeup pouch.
WHAT WE LIKED:
- It comes with a free silicone refill.
- Easy to use without injuring your eyes.
- It doesn’t pinch your eyes or makes you tear up.
WHAT WE DIDNT LIKE:
- The replacements pads are a little difficult to put.
EYESHADOW
BJI Rating: 4.6/5
The KOSE VISEE Glossy Rich Eyeshadow is a rich-coloured eyeshadow with 4 beautiful colours in one. The glossy base of each shade gives a long-lasting finish and adds glow and dimension to your eyes.
The small size of this palette is one of the best parts about it. I find it easy to travel with, and reach out to it when I need a quick-fix for my eyes.
WHAT WE LIKED:
- Highly pigmented shades.
- The beautiful pink/wine colour hues are easy to build new looks with.
- The colours stay on for a long time.
WHAT WE DIDNT LIKE:
- Does not come with an applicator, unlike many other eyeshadow palettes.
EYELINER
BJI Rating: 4.1/5
The Isehan Kiss Me eyeliner is a high-quality jet black eyeliner. For the price it comes at, it is easy to use and can be used to create beautiful wings and cat-eye looks.
The formula is smooth and feels and looks luxurious. The applicator makes it easy to pull off even the most difficult of eyeliner looks. The product glides on smoothly and dries completely matte.
WHAT WE LIKED:
- It is waterproof.
- The eyeliner doesn't smudge and stays on for long.
- The fine tip of the brush allows for a smooth application.
- Can be used over sweaty and oily skin without getting smeared.
WHAT WE DIDNT LIKE:
- A double application might cause the product to wipe off.
BJI Rating: 4.1/5
The Flowfushi UZU Eye-Opening Liner Liquid Eyeliner is a film type eyeliner that is waterproof, which makes it long-lasting. The pen is easy to hold and glides smoothly on every skin type.
It helps in providing all-day coverage so you are saved from re-applying the product, every few hours. The formula is rich and free from any parabens or ingredients that may cause skin irritation.
WHAT WE LIKED:
- It is easy to remove.
- Doesn’t cause a smudge.
WHAT WE DIDNT LIKE:
- A little on the expensive side.
Lips
BJI Rating: 4.1/5
It will be unfair to talk about Japanese makeup brands without the mention of Oil Rouge Lip Tint by Opera. It leaves a semi-metta shine on the lips and has a long staying power.
The colour of the tint helps to bring out the tone of your skin in a beautiful manner. If you have just started applying makeup or are looking for a gift for young makeup lovers in your circle, this tint can be a great option.
The consistency of the tint is thick, however, very light. A small bottle goes a long way without having to re-purchase.
WHAT WE LIKED:
- Stays on for prolonged hours. Leaves a light tint on the lips even after eating or drinking.
- Easy to remove with the help of a cleanser.
- Doesn’t sit heavy on the lips.
- Keeps the lips moisturised.
WHAT WE DIDNT LIKE:
- None
Ready to ditch your signature makeup look for something new? Stock up on these amazing Japanese cosmetics, today!