Though it launched in the U.S., Boscia was originally established by a Japanese cosmetics company. The brand focuses on natural botanical ingredients and currently offers a fun, fresh lineup of products.

Must-have products: For a fairly uniquely Japanese experience, you can't go wrong with the Boscia Exfoliating Peel Gel, $34, which offers one of the more satisfying modes of exfoliation. We also recommend the recently-launched Boscia Cactus Water Gel Moisturizer, $38 — it's got a pleasing jelly-like texture that's perfect for summer.

Image via @boscia

Koh Gen Do gained cult fame around 10 years ago as a makeup artist staple, particularly for film and TV (it was used on shows like "Glee" and "Mad Men").

Must-have products: Koh Gen Do Maifanshi Aqua Foundation, $70, remains a popular pick amongst makeup artists, since it has a gorgeously glowy finish and coverage that somehow manages to be at once flawless and natural. Koh Gen Do Cleansing Spa Water, $46, is another great option as a top-of-the-line, nourishing cleansing water.

Image via @kohgendo_official

You used to be able to find Shu Uemura at department stores like Bloomingdale's, though nowadays you'll have to get it online. The brand encompasses hair care, skin care and makeup, all with equal panache (also, it has especially good limited-edition capsule collections).

Must-have products: We'd be remiss if we didn't mention the iconic Shu Uemura Eyelash Curler, $22, or Shu Uemura High Performance Balancing Cleansing Oil Advanced Formula, $69. You'd also do well to check out Shu Uemura Hard Formula, $25, an eyebrow pencil that happens to be very popular on Reddit.

Image via @shuuemura

SK-II has long enjoyed cult acclaim, especially for its SK-II Facial Treatment Essence, $179. Recently, the brand made waves with its #BareSkinProject campaign, featuring Chloe Moretz, Tang Wei and more.

Must-have products: Of course, there's the aforementioned essence — and Ms. Moretz counts herself a fan of the SK-II Facial Treatment Mask, $17 (especially for air travel).

Image via @skii

Though Tatcha was technically founded by Victoria Tsai, a Chinese American woman, it's heavily influenced by Japanese beauty (specifically, by geishas) and incorporates a whole host of traditional Japanese techniques and ingredients.

Must-have products: The popular Tatcha The Rice Polish Foaming Enzyme Powder, $65 got an upgrade — now it comes in four different varieties (Deep, Gentle and Calming, in addition to Original). We're also quite excited for Tatcha The Indigo Cream Soothing Skin Protectant, $85, a new moisturizer specially formulated for sensitive skin (it was even accepted by the National Eczema Association).

Image via @tatcha