Have you ever wondered why you see so many pictures of Japanese women with flawless skin? Spoiler alert: it’s not all photoshop. Japanese beauty products have gained popularity in Western cultures for a reason, and their appeal is only growing.

What does that mean for Westerners buying these products from Japan? Are Japanese beauty products worth it? We’ll tell you what makes Japanese skin look gorgeous and why you might want to add these products to your daily beauty routine. 

What Do Japanese Beauty Routines Look Like?

Japanese self-care routines look different from those you see in the West, and not just in terms of makeup and hair products. While you’ll typically see a three-step skincare routine—cleanser, toner, and moisturizer—in Western beauty routines, J-beauty takes it to the next level.

Many Japanese people incorporate up to eight steps in their skincare routines. In a single morning skincare routine, you might see:
• Facial wash
• Facial cleanser
• Facial lotion
• Essence
• Toner
• Serum
• Emulsion
• Brightening Serum
• Facial cream

Not everyone in Japan uses all of these steps, but if you follow the Japanese beauty industry, you probably know that you don’t see as many Westerners going to such lengths for their routines. That doesn’t mean that using some of these products wouldn’t benefit your skin. 

How Are Japanese Beauty Products Different?

While the differing routines play a role in beautiful skin in Japan, they’re not the only factor. You may have heard the saying, “it’s what’s on the inside that counts.” That sentiment holds true for Japanese beauty products, too.

Japanese skin and hair care products use different ingredients than Western products, and many of them offer more benefits than what you see in areas like the US and UK. Japanese skincare products use green tea, rice extracts, and algae for antioxidants and ceramides, which create a barrier on your skin to keep moisture in and bacteria out. Vitamin C also helps increase collagen production and make your skin look brighter.

It’s not just skincare that departs from Western norms. Japanese hair care generally has more steps than Western routines, too. Japanese people wash their hair every day, and they brush it multiple times a day to distribute its natural oils.

Japanese hair care products contain natural ingredients, just like those you’ll find in Japanese lotions, serums, and creams. Camellia oil, persimmon, algae, and other natural ingredients lock in moisture, and you can find green tea in Japanese hair masks. 

Why Should You Add Japanese Beauty Products to Your Routine?

Because Japanese beauty products use more natural ingredients, you see a lower risk of side effects like irritation, breakouts, dryness, and other issues that come with artificial ingredients. That doesn’t make them nonexistent—if you have sensitive skin or an allergy to certain ingredients, beauty products from Japan won’t fix them. However, natural ingredients often work better on sensitive skin, so Japanese beauty products may work better for you.

Remember, it’s not just about the products. Japanese people know the value of being gentle with your skin. That means not scrubbing away your eye makeup or rushing through your routine, even with a busy schedule.

If you want to make your Japanese beauty products worth it, you have to use them properly. If you do, you’re more likely to see a difference in your skin and hair over time.