50 Best Japanese Makeup You Can Buy Online
by Tabitha Wilders | LIFESTYLE
Japanese makeup is at the top of the shopping list for many visitors to Japan. From international brands like Shiseido and DHC, to popular local products that have not yet been discovered outside of the country, there’s an enormous variety to choose from here.
But you don’t have to be in Japan to experience the innovate products and quality ingredients of Japanese cosmetics. Here are our recommendations for the best Japanese makeup that you buy online right now!
You can also browse gorgeous silk brocade travel makeup bags handcrafted in Kyoto, to go with your Japanese makeup, from the Japan Objects Store. Free shipping available worldwide!
Our editors independently researched and recommend the best products. We may receive commissions on purchases made from our chosen links at no additional cost to you.
Lipstick & Blush
1. Crystal Duo Lipstick Sheer by Visée
What makes this lipstick so special is its two-layer structure, combining a layer of clear pearl and sheer color. With a single swipe on the lips, you can achieve a three-dimensional effect (thanks to the pearls) and see it glimmer in the light. If you’re concerned about using lipstick on dry lip, there’s no need to worry. This lipstick is formulated with serum ingredients meaning it will also act as a lip moisturizer!
Crystal Duo Lipstick Sheer – Available at Amazon
2. Rouge Rouge Lipstick by Shiseido
If a bold red lip is a part of your signature look, then you’ll love Shiseido Rouge Rouge Lipstick, a line of long-lasting, vibrant hues that glide on with a smooth, creamy consistency. Shiseido Rouge Rouge Lipstick uses Hyaluronic Acid Complex to nourish the lips while Hyaluronic Acid Complex while Vibrant Red Color Technology bonds color to the lips and keeps them hydrated.
Rouge Rouge Lipstick – Available at Amazon
3. Medicated Lip Cream by DHC
With more than 120 million units sold in a 10 year period, DHC Medicated Lip Cream is one of Japan’s best selling cosmetic products. DHC Medicated Lip Cream uses a blend of lanolin oil, olive oil, aloe essence, Vitamin E, and licorice serivitatives to nourish dry, chapped lips and give them a healthy shine.
Medicated Lip Cream – Available at Amazon
4. Coral Pink Lip Tint by Opera
The Grand Prize winner of @cosme’s 2018 Best Cosmetics Awards. Opera Lip Tint is a nourishing balm somewhere between a lipgloss and lipstick - minus the tacky residue. A personal favorite, just one application provides enough pigmentation and sheen to lips and is ideal for when you’re unable to reapply lipstick throughout the day.
Coral Pink Lip Tint – Available at Amazon
5. Cheek Smile Up Cheeks by Coffret D’or
You’ll immediately notice any Coffret D’or product thanks to its stylish nude pink and gold packaging, but its compact blush, Smile Up Cheeks, comes in a clear compact to highlight its multi-color floral design. Apply the center colors to your cheeks then buff with the perimeter colors for a long-lasting glowy finish minus the fallout and the mess of cream blush.
Cheek Smile Up Cheeks – Available at Amazon
6. Prior Beauty-up Cheek by Shiseido
Prior, Shiseido’s two-step blusher, comes in a compact case resembling a vintage set gem. The lighter shade “erases” shadows under the eyes and those caused by smile lines, while the pigmented hue adds a beautiful rosy flush to the cheeks without making the skin feel dry.
Prior Beauty-up Cheek – Available at Amazon
7. Luminizing Satin Face Color by Shiseido
For a warm flush that compliments nearly every skin tone with a smooth, satin finish, there’s Shiseido Luminizing Satin Face Color. It is a dermatologist-tested and highly pigmented formula that applies evenly with one application, or it can be layered for a sculpted coutured look.
Luminizing Satin Face Color – Available at Amazon
8. Color Sensor Lip Tint by Kate
You might be wondering how this is possible. It’s just like magic! This unique color-changing lip tint is made with a special formula that reacts to moisture and changes color on its own to suit your skintone. The nourishing lip tint containing almond oil and jojoba oil (to name a few), lasts for a few hours and can give you a shiny or a matte finish. Not to mention, it will make your lips look extremely irresistible.
Color Sensor Lip Tint – Available at Amazon
9. Pearl Glow Highlight by Cezanne
Ranked highly by Cosme Japan, the most trusted beauty blog in Japan, this highlighter certainly doesn’t disappoint. Blends well into the skin, this highlighter will brighten up skin dullness and can help you achieve a three-dimensional look. It should definitely be one of your everyday items as it is able to provide a natural, pretty shimmer to the face with a single stroke to the upper cheeks.
Eyes
10. Eye Shadow Skin Modeling Eyes by Lunasol
The majority of Japanese women favor natural brown and beige eyeshadows to enhance their eyes. That’s why owning an eyeshadow palette like the one by Lunasol is a must. It’s even suitable for those with very oily skin as you can trust that the eyeshadow won’t fade or come off easily. This four-color eyeshadow set adds dimension and a subtle sparkle to your eyelids. Perfect if you really want to make your eyes stand out!
Eye Shadow Skin Modeling Eyes – Available at Amazon
11. Kiss Me Heroine Make Long & Curl Mascara and Speedy Mascara Remover by Isehan
It’s hard to believe that you’ve never heard of this mascara. Described by both Japanese and international fans as a holy grail product, this mascara elongates lashes and provides a beautiful lasting curl. Both waterproof and smudge-proof, this mascara definitely lives up to its claims. The only downside is that it takes time to take off. But with the help of the speedy remover, this will melt away the mascara while also nourishing the lashes.
Long & Curl Mascara and Speedy Mascara Remover – Available at Amazon
12. Designing Color Eyes by Suqqu
A premium Japanese make up brand attracting high-end clientele like Margot Robbie and Victoria Beckham, Suqqu approaches skincare and makeup as a means to enhance one’s natural beauty. The highly pigmented colors of this pearlescent eyeshadow quad offer buildable coverage and celebrate the beauty of Dianthus superbus, the nadeshiko flower that has long been synonymous with feminine ideals in Japan.
Designing Color Eyes – Available at Amazon
13. Beauty Aura Eyes by Coffret D’or
A unique eyeshadow quad that’s almost too pretty to use, Coffret D’or Beauty Aura Eyes blends satiny pink and brown shades that beautifully compliments a wide range of skin tones. Its nourishing formula uses collagen, royal jelly extract, hyaluronic acid, squalane, and jojoba seed oil for a glossy finish with staying power.
Beauty Aura Eyes – Available at Amazon
14. Creamy Touch Liner by Canmake
Sometimes it can be hard to find the perfect eyeliner. Either it doesn’t last all day, isn’t pigmented enough, doesn’t have the right tip to draw that ultra-fine line and flick, or just not easy to use. But the creamy touch liner by canmake? Boxes are ticked, ticked, ticked. Highly recommended especially if you’re new to eyeliner as this gel-type, creamy eyeliner with its super-slim tip glides nicely onto your eyelids with just one application.
Creamy Touch Liner – Available at Amazon
15. Mascara Perfect Pro Double Protection by DHC
Since its founding in the 1970s, DHC has become a best-selling skincare and makeup brand in Japan, and the brand has also reached international audiences thanks to its specially formulated products. DHC Mascara Perfect Pro Double Protection is one such product. It uses polymer fibers to amplify eyelash length for a fuller, more dramatic appearance. No wonder it’s a hit in Hollywood!
Mascara Perfect Pro Double Protection – Available at Amazon
16. Eyelash Serum by Scalp D
With over 2 million units sold here, this award-winning eyelash serum is a top tip if you’re looking for the best Japanese makeup! Scalp D Eyelash Serum is the result of a 14 year long study of hair growth. Use the soft-tipped wand to apply the mild formula to the root of the eyelashes. The serum is allergy tested, and can be applied over eyelash extensions as well.
Eyelash Serum – Available at Amazon
17. Powder & Pencil Eyebrow by Excel
A slim and compact 3-in-1 tool that comes with a pencil, powder and spoolie, Excel Powder & Pencil Eyebrow EX makes it easy to define the face with natural looking brows. Available in 8 different colors, from honey brown to ash gray.
Powder & Pencil Eyebrow – Check Price Here
18. Lash Knockout Black Mascara by Dejavu Fiberwig
Looking for a lightweight and volumizing mascara that won’t clump, smear, or cause unsightly panda eyes? Lash Knockout from the leading Japanese mascara brand Fiberwig, covers lashes with a film-like coat that’s actually a layer of fiber. The result is gorgeous lashes, thanks to the the specially designed volume styling brush, which lifts and separates. What’s more, Lash Knockout long-lasting formula does not budge, yet it can be removed effortlessly with just warm water.
Lash Knockout Black Mascara – Check Price Here
19. One-Day Tattoo Real Lasting Eyeliner by K-Palette
K-Palette One-Day Tattoo Real Lasting Eyeliner is Japan’s best-selling eyeliner, and has made its way to English-language beauty forums due to its deep black color and hyper-lasting formula. It’s resistant to water, sweat, tears, smearing, and rubbing, yet can be easily removed with warm water. The fine tipped brush gives the right amount of precision when lining eyes for a dramatic effect or for daily wear.
Primer & Concealer
20. UV Primer Makeup Base by &be
Winning first place as the best primer on Cosme Japan in 2022, this versatile primer produced by Yusuke Kawakita is perfect for those with dry skin. It serves three main functions: makeup base, sunscreen, and moisturizing beauty essence. Protecting your skin with a high SPF50+ and PA ++++, you’ll love the light texture and natural finish it leaves on the skin.
UV Primer Makeup Base – Available at Amazon
21. Dramatic Skin Sensor Base EX, Purple UV+ by Maquillage
What makes this primer unique is the lavender purple base. It helps remove darkness and redness, evens out skin tone, and protects the skin from UV light. A lightweight makeup primer that can keep your foundation looking fresh and helps it stay in place for up to 13 hours!
Dramatic Skin Sensor Base EX – Available at Amazon
22. Blooming Glow Primer by Suqqu
Suqqu Blooming Glow Primer is a pink-hued product with sakura, peony and rose extracts to tackle skin concerns related to aging, such as uneven tone, dullness, and yellowness. Its “Veil Net” technology prevents foundation from building up in pores by casting a “net” over the surface of the skin. Suqqu Blooming Glow Primer is also SPF 10 for added sun protection.
Blooming Glow Primer – Available at Amazon
23. Velvet Skin Coat by DHC
A favorite among professional makeup artists worldwide, DHC Velvet Skin Coat evens out pores and fine lines and gives skin a smooth and flawless matte finish. Use under foundation for additional coverage, or use alone with setting powder for a more natural complexion while reducing oiliness.
Velvet Skin Coat – Available at Amazon
24. Perfecting Stick Concealer by Shiseido
For perfect coverage with the finish of a natural complexion, try Shiseido Perfecting Stick Concealer. This concealer uses “Bind & Fit Wax” technology for a hydrating product that melts into the skin without creasing or appearing cakey. The shape of this concealer stick makes contouring a breeze, too!
Perfecting Stick Concealer – Available at Amazon
25. Moist BB Cream by Naturaglace
Naturaglace is a natural makeup brand from Japan that only uses plant extracts and plant oils, and it sources its pigmentation from minerals. Its “blemish balm,” or BB Cream, has a texture that falls somewhere between a moisturizer and foundation to give the skin a fresh glow, all while providing protection from the skin’s rays.
Moist BB Cream – Available at Amazon
26. Primavista Ange Long Keep Base UV by Sofina
Formulated with hyaluronic acid, Sofina Primavista Ange Long Keep Base is a long-lasting, sweat-resistant makeup base that offers up to 8 hours of coverage and sun protection. Sofina Primavista Ange Long Keep Base brightens skin tone and controls excessive sebum on oily skin for a shine-free appearance.
Primavista Ange Long Keep Base UV – Available at Amazon
27. Spot Cover Foundation by Shiseido
Time-tested Japanese makeup loved by consumers here for more than 40 years, Shiseido Spots Cover Foundation is a full coverage cream that effectively tackles blemishes, bruises, freckles, melasma and acne scars. Apply gradually for desired coverage then finish with foundation or powder.
Spot Cover Foundation – Available at Amazon
28. Allerbarrier Essence by Shiseido
D Program Allerbarrier Essence is a milky sunscreen essence formulated with sensitive skin in mind. Not only does this SPF 40 PA+++ Shisedo sunscreen formula block harmful UV rays, it also forms a barrier against fine particles such as dirt, dust, and pollen. Mix with foundation or use as a primer. Allerbarrier Essence is also gentle enough to protect the delicate skin of babies and young children.
Allerbarrier Essence – Available at Amazon
29. Sunscreen Beauty Light Lotion by Orbis
Orbis Sunscreen On Face Beauty Light Lotion is a SPF34 PA+++ sweat-resistant and tinted sunscreen that doubles a makeup primer. Suitable for combination and oily skin, it contains rosemary and raw sugar extract to hydrate skin throughout the day while its Ultra-White Lighting Powder creates a smooth and natural finish.
Foundation & Setting Powder
30. Synchro Skin Glow Luminizing Fluid Foundation by Shiseido
Suitable for all skin types, if you’re after a foundation that’s buildable but also offers full coverage, this foundation is the one for you. Shiseido’s foundations, in general, never fail to deliver a healthy, flawless complexion. Particularly with this one, it’s the mandarin peel extract, the key ingredient, which will give you that radiant finish.
Synchro Skin Glow Luminizing Fluid Foundation – Available at Amazon
31. Élégance La Poudre Haute Nuance Luxueuse by Albion
Albion is one of Japan’s most prestigious makeup and skincare brands, born in Ginza, Tokyo’s upscale district. Albion Élégance La Poudre Haute Nuance Luxueuse is a pressed powder that covers the skin in a silken, translucent veil.
Élégance La Poudre Haute Nuance Luxueuse – Available at Amazon
32. KATE Secret Skin Maker Zero Compact Refill by Kanebo
KATE Secret Skin Maker Zero powder is a wet and dry compact powder that offers a matte, even finish and SPF coverage for those with darker complexions. Pair with KATE Secret Skin Maker Zero liquid foundation for full coverage or use with a damp sponge for a soft and smooth look.
Secret Skin Maker Zero Compact Refill – Available at Amazon
33. UV Face Powder by Privacy
Touch up your makeup on the go and keep the sun’s harmful rays at bay with Privacy UV Face Powder, a SPF 50+ PA++++ powder that stays put all day. For best results, use a brush instead of a puff, and don’t forget to apply to your neck and chest as well!
UV Face Powder – Available at Amazon
34. Secret Skin Maker Zero by Kanebo
KATE Secret Skin Maker Zero Liquid Foundation, from renowned Japanese makeup brand Shiseido, provides full coverage and creates flawless skin that looks fresh and natural. Ideal for concealing pores, and uneven skin, this lightweight foundation also contains color correcting pigments that brighten up sallow, yellowish skin tones.
Secret Skin Maker Zero – Available at Amazon
35. Finishing Powder by Chacott
Japan’s best-selling loose powder comes from an unlikely contender: Chacott For Professionals Finishing Powder. It’s a brand that specializes in makeup that can withstand harsh stage and set lighting as well as the regime movements of artists, musicians, and dancers. Pair with foundation to control oil and for long-lasting makeup.
Finishing Powder – Available at Amazon
36. Synchro Skin Self-Refreshing Powder Foundation by Shiseido
If you prefer a powder foundation over liquid and want a natural, smooth finish, you’ll absolutely love this one. With a sheer to medium coverage, although it’ll feel like you’re not wearing anything, you will instantly see how magically flawless your skin looks as soon as you apply it.
Synchro Skin Self-Refreshing Powder Foundation – Available at Amazon
37. Suppin Face Powder by Club
This top Japanese ultra-fine face powder forms a thin layer on the skin, giving you a beautiful, translucent finish. As it gently covers uneven skin tone and pores, you can achieve that perfect no-make up look, making this powder, not surprisingly, a favorite among many. No need to worry about vigorously removing it either. All you need is a simple face wash and you can jump straight into bed after a long, exhausting day!
Suppin Face Powder – Available at Amazon
38. Radiant Cream Foundation by Clé de Peau Beauté
If you’re after something a little more luxurious and willing to splurge, then this skincare-based cream foundation is certainly worth it. It’s moisturizing with a medium-to-full coverage that perfects the skin and leaves a slightly dewy finish. Use it religiously to notice how it improves your skin’s smoothness and diminishes signs of aging.
Radiant Cream Foundation – Available at Amazon
39. Transparent Setting Powder by Cosme Decorte
Particularly suitable for acne-prone and sensitive skin, this super lightweight setting powder by Cosme Decorte gives a matte yet slightly shimmery finish. Use it sparingly but still see how it covers every tiny blemish. It even helps skin stay moisturized due to the silky texture.
Transparent Setting Powder – Available at Amazon
40. Maquillage Compact Case by Shiseido
Japanese makeup brand MAQUiLLAGE frequently releases limited-edition versions of its makeup cases (like their 2017 release celebrating the 25th anniversary of Sailor Moon). But, if you can’t get your hands on the latest, you certainly can’t go wrong this eyecatching bronze mosaic compact case!
Makeup Tools
41. Katana Fude Eye Lining Brush by Shiseido
A carefully designed eyeliner brush to help you draw very precise lines using any cream, gel, liquid, and powder formulas. The handle of the brush is crafted to fit comfortably in the hand for stable and controlled application. Not to mention, the bristles which are soft and flexible, makes it easy for blending and provides a streak-free finish.
Katana Fude Eye Lining Brush – Available at Amazon
42. Double-Ended Eyebrow Brush by Rosie Rosa
Sometimes, it’s easy to overlook the importance and need for good make-up brushes. But once you get yourself the Rosie Rosa double-ended eyebrow brush, you’ll realize how wrong you were! Highly recommended for those with thick eyebrows, the special brush shape will help you draw and achieve perfect brows. If you want natural-looking eyebrows, use the smudge side of the brush as it’s very good for blurring and blending.
Double-Ended Eyebrow Brush – Available at Amazon
43. Silcot Uruuru Sponge Facial Cotton by Unicharm
This is no ordinary facial cotton. Ranked No. 1 in the best cosmetics hall of fame category on Cosme Japan, this moisturizing facial cotton does what it promises. A whole better than using a wad of cotton balls or a handful of cheap cotton pads, you’ll notice how you’ll use far less product than usual as the cotton absorbs the product (eg toner) very well. Thick and durable, but still easy to tear if you want to use a smaller piece.
Silcot Uruuru Sponge Facial Cotton – Available at Amazon
44. Make Up Brush and Sponge Cleaner
Daiso, Japan’s largest chain of ¥100 stores, has produced several of Japan’s hit beauty products, including this miracle makeup brush and sponge cleaner. It effectively removes even the most stubborn cream products and leaves your tools looking brand new, all without leaving behind any trace of fragrance.
Make Up Brush and Sponge Cleaner – Available at Amazon
45. Seki Tweezers
Seki, a town located in central Japan is the home of modern Japanese kitchen cutlery and has international recognition for its cutlery, knives, and blades. These Seki tweezers are of the highest quality on the market and are precise enough to tackle ingrown hairs with ease.
Seki Tweezers – Available at Amazon
46. Hanatsubaki Brush by Shiseido
Shiseido’s uniquely-designed four petal Hanatsubaki face brush is modeled on the camellia flower, cultivated for centuries in Asia for its beauty and cosmetic properties. This brush uses high-performance synthetic fibers and Shiseido’s Hidden Core Technology for a masterful blend of strength and softness to give your skin a smooth and polished finish.
Hanatsubaki Brush – Available at Amazon
47. Portable Eyelash Curler by Muji
The cosmetics section at Muji, Japan’s no-frill lifestyle retailer, is a favorite in Japan due to its functionality, packaging, and affordability. Muji’s portable eyelash curler will quickly become your favorite beauty tool as it fits snuggly in the palm of your hand unlike conventional curlers. This portable eyelash curler is also ideal for monolids and those with shorter lashes as its thick rubber pad protects the eyelid from accidental pinching.
Portable Eyelash Curler – Available at Amazon
48. Electric Eyelash Curler by Panasonic
While nights out on the town may be few and far in-between, this electric eyelash curler from Panasonic will help you put your best face forward when it comes to online meetings! This no-fuss device is battery-operated and heats in 5 minutes. Simply apply your favorite volumizing and lengthening mascara and hold the eyelash curler against your lashes for approximately 30 seconds for eyes that wow.
Electric Eyelash Curler – Available at Amazon
49. Facial Razor by Shiseido
If you feel conscious about peach fuzz and are looking for a way to achieve a smoother application of makeup, I present this tri-pack of Shiseido facial razors. These facial razors are also suitable if you wish to try your hand at dermalain, a facial technique that uses a blade to exfoliate dead skin cells and remove fine hairs.
Facial Razor – Available at Amazon
50. Seki Eyebrow Comb Scissors
Tame, groom, and cut unruly eyebrows with one hand by using these ergonomic eyebrow comb scissors made in Seki. The stainless steel blades are engraved with “Made in Japan” and provide for a precision cut that will surely make these scissors one of your to-go beauty tools.
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LIFESTYLE | July 28, 2023