If you’re on the never-ending quest for smooth, supple, “glass-like” skin, then it’s time to get acquainted with Japanese beauty.
While it has a similar ethos to the innovations coming out of South Korea—so, a focus on gentle, hydrating and barrier-building ingredients—there are key differences. While K-beauty is focused on trends and rapid production, J-beauty formulas are often decades in the making, and centred around specific ingredients, like ferments, green tea, rice and seaweed, as well as precise application techniques.
In fact, it has been a favourite amongst industry insiders for decades, well before it became easily accessible in the UK. So, without further ado, the very best of the sector across make-up, skincare, haircare and fragrance, as selected by those in the know.
Article continues below
Best J-Beauty Products to Shop Now
Curél
Deep Moisture Spray
A cult favourite for a reason, I always have at least one supersize can of Curél’s Deep Moisture Spray at home, whatever the season. Enriched with ceramides and eucalyptus extract, the concentrated formula nourishes while soothing stressed or compromised skin. Plus, it has a super fine mist.
Biore
UV Aqua Rich Water Essence Sunscreen Spf 50
This is one of the more affordable Japanese sunscreens, though you’d be forgiven for thinking it costs far more. The weightless formula is infused with hyaluronic acid and micro defence technology, but it’s a real standout for combination or acne-prone skin: it’s oil-free, absorbs quickly, and won’t clog pores. And its cast-free finish makes it suitable for all skin tones.
Tatcha
The Milky Sunscreen Spf 50+
Though Tatcha’s latest sunscreen sits at the pricier end of the spectrum, it’s quickly become a team favourite for its ultra-lightweight, milky texture, which absorbs on contact. It leaves a glowy finish that looks beautiful under make-up.
Keana
Rice Face Mask for Dry Skin
One of Japan’s most popular sheet masks, Keana’s Rice Face Mask targets dryness and enlarged pores with a serum derived from 100 per cent Japanese rice. Gentle enough for sensitive skin and daily use, it leaves skin smoother, plumper and brighter in just five minutes.
& Honey
Deep Moist Treatment 2.0
Countless Beauty Editors have raved about & Honey Deep Moist Treatment 2.0, and after finally trying it myself, I understand the hype. It’s one of the most deeply nourishing masks I’ve used, and should be a go-to for anyone with very dry, damaged or processed hair. Standout ingredients include non-heat-processed honey from Japan, alongside Manuka and acacia honey, as well as royal jelly and propolis.
Shiseido
Ultimune Power Infusing Concentrate
Shiseido is the largest cosmetics brand in Asia, and its Ultimune Power Infusing Concentrate is an enduring icon. Backed by 30 years of research into skin ageing, this powerhouse serum is designed to soften visible signs of ageing in just one week. This is thanks to its patented Power Fermented Camellia extract, which was derived through a bio-fermentation process to strengthen the moisture barrier.
Curél
Intensive Moisture Facial Cream
Beauty editors have long loved Curél’s Intensive Moisture Facial Cream for flare-ups of perioral dermatitis. You literally can’t go wrong with it; the lightweight, gel-cream texture immediately soothes, leaving skin hydrated, plumped and calm.
Suisai Kanebo
Beauty Clear Powder – 32 Pieces
This super innovative cleanser is unlike anything I have ever used before—and I won’t be travelling without it going forward. Coming in single-use pods, it’s a two-phase enzymatic (protease and lipase) facial cleanser, which works hard to remove dead skin, blackheads and impurities, without stripping the skin.
KIDA KYO
Dulcet – No. 06 Parfum
J-fragrance is not talked about enough, especially KIDA KYO, which is beloved by perfume aficionados across the globe. I really love their Dulcet – No. 06. It’s a smooth, sensual and enveloping blend of milk bubble tea, yuzu, brown sugar and custard mochi.
Space NK
Tatcha the Kissu Lip Mask
There’s no dearth of overnight lip masks, and Tatcha’s version is one I’ve come back to time and time again. You only need the smallest amount for a heft kick of moisture, and the cute little tub lasts for months.
Hadalabo
Gokujyun Hyaluronic Moisture Lotion
The thin, watery consistency of this cult lotion absorbs instantly, featuring multiple types of hyaluronic acid that work across different layers of the skin to deliver long-lasting hydration. You can use it as a moisturiser, or layer it for a more intense dose of moisture.
Hada Labo Tokyo
Skin Plumping Gel
Featuring a blend of three types of hyaluronic acid, this hydrating and lightweight moisturiser acts as a great prep step before make-up application—no pilling in sight. Plus, it has a great price point.
Sensai
Sensai Comforting Barrier Essence
Beloved by top facialists, this super gentle, barrier-optimising essence was designed to address temporary signs of skin fragility, including dryness, redness and roughness, all while reinforcing its moisture-retention capability.