Inspired by Japanese Geishas who start their makeup routine with a thin layer of wax (yes, wax) to create a flawless base, this primer straddles the line between skin care and makeup. True to its name, thin layers of silk hold in moisture, while silk powder creates a subtle blurring effect to camouflage pores, wrinkles and anything else you don't want showing. As if that weren't enough, there are also three unique Japanese ingredients, a super pure form of green tea, Japanese sea algae, and a nourishing rice, to further up the complexion perfection factor.
Way back before any type of Asian beauty was even a thing in the U.S., this cleansing oil from Japanese brand DHC was killing the game. The cult-classic (one bottle is sold every 10 seconds worldwide!) is olive oil-based to quickly and easily remove even waterproof makeup, yet it's so hydrating and soothing that you'll want to use it even when you're bare-faced.
Gel moisturizers are another J-beauty mainstay, packing heavy hydration into a lightweight texture that never feels greasy or heavy. This formula does just that, thanks to a blend of three different types of hyaluronic acid that deliver long-lasting moisture throughout all the different levels of your skin. Oh, and did we mention that you can also get it Target? Cause you can. For less than $18.
Talk about an oldie but goodie, this beloved formula hasn't changed in over 35 years. There's a good reason why: It's made with 90 percent Pitera, a liquid loaded with vitamins, minerals, amino acids and acids...aka it moisturizes, soothes and protects your skin. (Fun fact: The ingredient was created when scientists discovered that the hands of Japanese sake brewers were incredibly smooth and youthful, thanks to a single kind of yeast.) Swipe it on post-cleansing, pre-moisturizer once or twice a day. It's a splurge for sure, but the multiple skin benefits are well worth it.