When it comes to J Beauty, large conglomerates such as P&G and Unilever often market the idea of mystical elixirs rooted in ancient rituals. While yes, J Beauty is born of tradition,  the truth is — J-beauty uses ingredients that are rooted in science and empirical data as well. Mystifying certain cultures can lead to the commodification of entire customs, lifestyles, and philosophies. 

For instance,  “Japan boasts the world's leading health indicators in terms of life expectancy and overall health.” But, making it seem like this is the result of something mystic or archaic, can take away from all of the innovation and ingenuity that the culture has to offer. It also maintains the dominance of a Western lens. Thus, it’s better to appreciate and acknowledge the scientific contributions of a culture than to mystify it.

While it’s true that things like sake (Japanese rice alcohol) by-products, mushrooms, and Tsubaki oil are easy to find in J-Beauty products, it’s important to understand and respect J-beauty for its real and effective formulations. We should not just venerate the ingredients that seem exotic. J-Beauty is distinguished by its timelessness, originality, and ability to remain consistent and high-quality throughout an ever-changing market. 

How do K-beauty and J-beauty compare? 

While K-beauty might be more responsive to the market and push forward trends like the 11-step beauty routines and glass skin, Japanese beauty emphasizes minimalism, gentle, and timeless components. With J-beauty, you might find fermented ingredients that balance the microbiome but also lab-synthesized ingredients that hydrate the skin and complement the formula’s botanical extracts. 

In contrast to Western beauty, which primarily focuses on treatment, both K-beauty and J-beauty are known for protecting the skin and preventing conditions and damage. Both include simple formulations, but many K-beauty products are optimized when paired with other products such as toners and essences. 

So, you may find more stand-alone products within J-beauty or products meant for a simple 3-step routine. Furthermore, many have anecdotally said that J-beauty can be more gentle on the skin due to a lack of “parabens.” Take the Japanese paraben-free brand, Fancl, for instance. Although data does not necessarily show the benefits of "paraben-free" products, many claim their effectiveness.

Fancl Aging Care Washing Cream - $19 

Fancl Mild Cleansing Oil - $19.94

So, while people often look to K-beauty as a gentle way to prevent skin conditions such as acne and chronic dryness, many prefer J-beauty as a more transparent and straightforward option with similar results.

What makes J-beauty different?

Japan is known for more heavily regulating its cosmetics and manufacturing processes or “monozukuri.”Monozukuri  is a Japanese word used to describe technology, processes of development, production, and procurement, It also includes intangible qualities such as craftsmanship and dedication to continuous improvement. The word hones in on beauty, integrity, creativity, and quality as well. 

For example, to sell cosmetics in Japan, “firms need to overcome several, rigorous requirements to secure an approval from the Pharmaceutical and Medical Devices Agency within the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare (MHLW). This is the regulatory agency that reviews the quality, safety, and efficacy of medical products, including cosmetics, to be marketed in Japan.”

Monozukuri (Japanese manufacturing) has a very strong reputation, and when it comes to skincare, yes, this could definitely give J-beauty the edge. However, different things will resonate with different people, and that’s why  it’s important to find what works for you 

As for K-beauty, Cassandra has covered it extensively, and she’s even collaborated with Isntree to create The Purple Protector Sunscreen. And ultimately, both K-beauty and J-beauty have promising options for sensitive skin.

Isntree Purple Protector Onion Newpair Sunscreen - $15.64