Japanese makeup products and tools are renowned for how easy they are to use, as well as their high quality. They are beloved by those in the know, from the top global makeup brands to some of the best makeup artists out there. So, here are some Japanese makeup products and tools that we strongly recommend, chosen by locals that regularly use these high-quality items. They have been scored based on factors such as price and quality.
The History of Japanese Makeup
Makeup has been a thing in Japan since before the Common Era (i.e. the “BC” years in the Gregorian calendar). At the time, the Japanese used red paint on their eyes, lips, and bodies to protect themselves from evil spirits and disasters.
It wasn’t until the Nara Period (710-794) when makeup began to be used for beautification. During this period, items like face whitening powder and brushes for putting this powder on were created. Ever since then, Japanese makeup products and tools have continued to evolve while utilizing past knowledge and crafting techniques, and today, they are highly regarded worldwide.
1. JAPAN YOJIYA Oil Blotting Paper 10 Pairs
Score: ★★★★★
These top-quality oil blotting sheets, sold in packs of 10, come from YOJIYA, a well-established Kyoto makeup brand that has been in business for over 100 years. They are so famous that even geisha love them, thanks to how fantastically they do their job without removing any makeup. They’re also quite compact, so you can easily bring and use them wherever you go.
Package Dimensions: 3.7” x 3.7” x 0.5” (9.4 cm x 9.4 cm x 1.3 cm)
Brand: yojiya
2.Shiseido Make Sponge Puff Circle - 104
Score: ★★★★☆
This sponge puff made by famous Japanese makeup brand Shiseido is meant for face powders. It’s quite flexible and beautifully helps cover any pores and other imperfections. To clean it, all you have to do is gently wash it in some warm soapy water, and then you can easily reuse it again and again!
Package Dimensions: 5.51” x 3.23” x 2.44” (13.9 cm x 8.2 cm x 6.2 cm); 1.15 lbs (0.5 kg)
Brand: Shiseido
3. Long Eye Shadow Brush (Maruhira) 16 mm Pine Squirrel | Makeup Brush
Score: ★★★★★
The bristles on this eyeshadow brush come from pine squirrel tail and Kolinsky hair. They are left uncut, meaning that they feel soft and pleasant on the skin. Furthermore, as each brush is made by hand by skilled artisans, this eyeshadow brush is extremely high quality and will last for a very long time.
Size: L7.32" * W2.04" * H1.1" (L18.6 cm * W5.2 cm * H2.8 cm)
Material: Pine squirrel tail hair/Kolinsky
Brand: UYEDA BISYODO (Makeup Brush)
4. Long 5-Piece Set With Pouch | Makeup Brush
Score: ★★★★☆
This is a five-brush set with all the basic makeup brushes you’ll need, including eyeshadow and blush brushes. All the brushes use top-quality hair, such as pine squirrel tail, Kolinsky, goat, and even weasel. Every single aspect of these brushes has been crafted thoughtfully, from the way the bristles feel to how easy they are to grip in the hand. Putting on makeup is sure to become an even more fun experience with these brushes in your arsenal!
Material: Goat (Supreme class), Pine squirrel tail hair, Kolinsky, Weasel, Water badger
Brand: UYEDA BISYODO (Makeup Brush)
Related articles:
▶ 7 Japanese Accessories for Any Outfit and Occasion
▶ 5 Japanese Towels and Tenugui for Any Situation
▶ The Complete Guide to Traditional Japanese Crafts
If you want to give feedback on any of our articles, you have an idea that you'd really like to see come to life, or you just have a question on Japan, hit us up on our Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram!
*These products may not be able to be shipped to certain countries. Please see the retailer's website for more information.
The information in this article is accurate at the time of publication.