8 Best Japanese Foundations Of 2024, According To A Certified Makeup Expert
Give your skin that much-deserved luminous finish and gorgeously even tone.
Cha Cha WoskaCertified Makeup Artist 
Cha Cha is a certified professional makeup artist, airbrush makeup artist, and beauty educator with over 20 years in the beauty industry. She is also the owner of Cha Cha Beauty Bar and has done extensive work in the bridal and special even... more
srijani roy chowdhuryMA (Journalism & Mass Communication), Certified Style & Image Consultant Experience: 3 yearsSrijani is an associate commerce editor with a master's degree in journalism and mass communication from the University of Calcutta, West Bengal. She is certified in makeup techniques and is also a ce... more
srijita deMA (English & Literature), Certified Style & Image Consultant Experience: 2 yearsSrijita De is a makeup and fashion enthusiast with a passion for empowering readers through practical tips and tricks to present their best selves with confidence. Armed with a postgraduate degree in ... more
krati darakMBA, Certified Skin Care Coach Experience: 3 yearsKrati is an associate commerce editor, a certified skin care coach, and a beauty enthusiast. She has a master’s degree in advertising and publishing relations from DAVV University and three years of ... more
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The best Japanese foundations come in a variety of finishes and textures. Why Japanese cosmetics, you ask? Well, Japan has a wide range of climatic conditions, and its brands are made to cater to the needs of various skin types. So, if you want a good change of brands for your cosmetic products, we suggest you try Asian brands that have mastered the balance of combining skin care with makeup, delivering exceptional results for your skin.
A good-quality foundation has become a staple in most makeup lovers’ vanity kits. Foundations ensure you have a consistent skin tone that is important for makeup application. But finding the perfect shade of foundation for your skin can get tricky. In this article, we have listed the best Japanese foundations for all skin types and tones after going through several reviews from users online. Go on and check them out.
In This Article
Top 8 Best Japanese Makeup Foundations That You Can Buy In 2024
1. Best Sun Protection:Shiseido Synchro Skin Glow Luminizing Fluid Foundation – No.3 Golden
The Shiseido Synchro Skin Glow Luminizing Fluid Foundation is the ultimate Japanese foundation that delivers a long-lasting and luminous finish. The foundation is lightweight and has a serum-like smooth texture, which will make you feel like you are wearing no foundation at all. If you are looking for a high-quality foundation that can give you a brilliant glow throughout the day that looks natural, this popular Japanese foundation is your answer. The result you achieve is a dewy glow without an oily sheen. It has mild anti-aging effects, such as reducing the appearance of pores and visible fine lines, keeping the skin feel fresh and breathable. The lightweight foundation is suitable for all skin types and is dermatologically tested. Learn more about the popular product in this video.
Pros
- Includes SPF 20
- Glossy finish
- Non-comedogenic
- Buildable coverage
- Provides hydration for 8 hours
- Includes wild thyme extract that provides the skin with antioxidant benefits.
- Infused with the goodness of argan oil, cranberry seed oil, and yuzu seed extract so that skin retains moisture with youthful suppleness.
Cons
- In sunnier locales, you may have to wear sunscreen underneath the foundation.
Pro TipUse a makeup brush or a damp beauty sponge to blend the foundation. If you use a brush, blend in circular buffing motions and if you use a sponge, dab it on your skin to blend well.
2. Best Buildable Coverage:Koh Gen Do Maifanshi Aqua Foundation
The Koh Gen Do Maifanshi Aqua Foundation offers a glowing post-facial look. Even celebrities like Jessica Alba and professional makeup artists love using this foundation. The oil-resistant formula is breathable, has pore-minimizing effects, and protects the skin from sun, sweat, and pollution. This celebrity-favorite foundation contains light-diffusing minerals extracted from Bretagne, France and it is wonderful for brightening your skin. The signature oil blend contains jojoba oil, olive, squalane, and shea butter to moisturize the skin and offer a beautiful skin. This skin-friendly, makeup artist-approved foundation keeps the skin hydrated for long hours and creates a sheer to medium coverage with a flawless and natural finish.
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Oil-control formula
- Ideal for combination and oily skin types
- Brightens complexion
- Breathable coverage
- Long wear
- Lightweight
Cons
- None
"This foundation offers good coverage and a natural, skin-like finish that withstands heat and humidity. Its seamless blend and durability make it a staple in my kit. The glowy finish is a consistent bonus. It stands out among various brands for its lightweight feel and compatibility with other makeup products. A worthy investment for those seeking a lasting, natural glow."
3. Best Long-Lasting Formula:RMK Liquid Foundation
Gentle on the skin, the RMK Liquid Foundation is one of the best luminizing foundations for your statement-making outings. The RMK brand is all about natural-looking skin and this liquid foundation ensures a natural finish. Enjoy the illusion of bare skin as the light fluid texture makes your skin feel fresh and spread very easily on the skin. If you prefer transparent or translucent base makeup so that your beauty spots are slightly see-through, this foundation is perfect for you. A seamless and perfect balance of translucency and coverage is created so that it looks just like bare skin rather than making your skin look like it is plastered with thick makeup. The skin-refining formula is water-proof, so you are protected against perspiration, and water in general, which in turn ensures that the foundation lasts a long time, even in humid conditions.
Pros
- Long-lasting formula
- Light to medium coverage
- Water-resistant
- Can be worn casually to work, and can be worn for formal events too.
Cons
- You may need to wear concealer under this foundation to hide dark circles.
"I like how this foundation has a lightweight texture and a soft matte finish, imparting a hint of radiance to my complexion. Its lasting power seems promising. It also offers good coverage to mask the little imperfections on the skin"
Quick TipFor a dewy appearance and light coverage, combine a few drops of this foundation with a moisturizer or serum.
Shiseido Synchro Skin Glow Luminizing Fluid Foundation - No.3 Golden Best Sun Protection | Koh Gen Do Maifanshi Aqua Foundation Best Buildable Coverage | RMK Liquid Foundation Best Long-Lasting Formula | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Type | All | SensitiveColor | AllColor |
| Dimensions | 0.63 x 0.63 x 3.5 inches | - | - |
| Weight | 0.18 Ounces | - | - |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 302 | - | 10 |
| Price | $39.99 | $96 | $62.99 |
4. Best Moisturizing:Paul & Joe Moisturizing Foundation Primer
The Paul & Joe Moisturizing Foundation Primer is your solution to get moisturized, radiant skin. It exhibits deep hydrating properties and contains hyaluronic acid and jojoba oil. Orange flower water and white lily extract protect the skin from irritation, keeping it refreshed. This foundation contains botanical extracts that maintain skin health and make it soft and supple. The lightweight formula provides sheer natural coverage and a high moisturizing effect to all skin types, especially dry skin. This skin-perfecting foundation primer contains champagne pearls that create a shimmering effect on the skin. Reviewers noted that they love using this multi-purpose product on an everyday basis for a subtle look.
Pros
- Can be used as a tinted moisturizer
- Offers a radiant finish
- Sheer coverage
- Buildable formula
- Lightweight
Cons
- May be watery
"I've found this primer to be a good fit for those looking for a hydrating product that doesn't feel tacky. It offers a natural glow and good lasting power. It is ideal for a lighter, more natural makeup look."
5. Best Lightweight Texture:Shu Uemura The Lightbulb Fluid Foundation
The Shu Uemura The Lightbulb Fluid Foundation is a revolutionary Japanese foundation in fluid form. If you are looking to find the perfect fit for your skin tone, try this Japanese foundation makeup that offers an exquisite fit. The finish of this foundation is porcelain-like and your skin glows naturally without looking like a fake illusion. The moisture lasts all day so your skin won’t feel patchy or dry, and the foundation will not break into cracks and lines. Enjoy the smooth and flawless finish on your skin and even skin tone that will keep you photo-ready every minute of the day. This video gives you more information about the product and a tester’s experience of using it.
Pros
- High coverage
- Weightless texture
- Long-lasting formula
Cons
- The liquid foundation in the bottle may start separating in a few months.
"I've tried the foundation and really like its blendability and coverage. It leaves an appealing, natural-looking sheen even under powder, enhancing a healthy skin glow without the heavy feeling. The included sponge functionality is also good."
6. Best For Uneven Skin Tone:Shiseido MAQuillAGE Dramatic Powdery UV Foundation
The Shiseido MAQuillAGE Dramatic Powdery UV Foundation is a newly released foundation powder that offers high-performance airbrushed looks with its 2-way cake construction. This lightweight Japanese foundation makeup has the ability to protect skin from UV rays and fuse very quickly with your skin so that proper coverage is provided on your face along with a natural glow and appearance. The foundation is created with the help of a unique “mousse press process” in which fluffy and soft mousse is made with second skin powder and beauty essence water as a result of which this Japanese powder foundation is able to blend naturally without standing out or looking like a layer of makeup has been applied. It is completely blendable with your skin. The “barely there” look is ideal for simple day wear and events where you don’t want to look too dressed up for yet wish to sport flawless and supple skin.
Pros
- Contains SPF20 PA++
- Includes a free sponge puff.
- Hides visible pores and evens skin tone.
Cons
- The foundation may not be suitable for long-wear.
7. Best For Casual Wear:Hourglass Vanish Seamless Finish Foundation Stick
Image: Hourglass The Hourglass Vanish Seamless Finish Foundation Stick is a high-performance formula that provides the skin with a seamless finish, while it enjoys a coverage that is natural. It basically gives a transparent look to the skin. The foundation is formulated with a blend of innovative ingredients and a dense pigment formula that provide full coverage with just one swipe. The multipurpose foundation stick is designed to provide a weightless, long-wearing, and comfortable feel on the skin, making it an ideal choice for all-day wear. The cream foundation stick is also infused with light-reflecting particles that help in blurring the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and other imperfections, leaving the skin with a smooth, flawless finish. The mattifying foundation can also be used as a concealer or contour. It is also formulated with nourishing ingredients, such as Vitamin E, which helps hydrate and protect the skin from environmental stressors.
Pros
- Anti-blemish
- Excellent coverage
- Smoothing effect
- Paraben-free
- Fragrance-free
- Gluten-free
- Sulfate-free
- GMO-free
- Synthetic dye-free
Cons
- None
"This foundation offers a good level of coverage that feels fresh with a satin finish. It is buildable and works well with other products and endures various climates. A decent choice for a convenient on-the-go foundation with a creamy, matte finish."
8. Best Non-Cakey Finish:KATE Secret Skin Maker
The Kate Secret Skin Maker is a Japanese liquid foundation that offers perfect coverage without a cakey finish. It contains SPF 18+ that makes your skin luminous by covering the acne scars, pores, and any dullness on the skin. Reviewers mentioned that this foundation blends easily on your skin, helps even out your skin tone, and minimizes imperfections.
Pros
- Does not look cakey
- Contains SPF 18+
- Anti-dullness
- Long-lasting finish
- Covers irregularities on your skin
Cons
- None
"I've repeatedly purchased this product for its coverage. It manages to conceal most blemishes and freckles without creating a heavy makeup look. It blends easily with just a swipe and sticks well to the skin. It is ideal for a natural finish, and it generally holds up well."
Still, finding it hard to choose the right Japanese Foundation that is most loved by Japanese women? Here is a buying guide that will give you a little more clarity on the best foundation for you!
Buying Guide
Just because a foundation matches your skin tone does not mean that is where your search ends. There are a lot more features, and sometimes with greater demand for the importance that needs to be considered before buying a Japanese foundation.
How To Choose Best Japanese Foundation- A Guide
The best Japanese foundation must be judged on and finally selected for the following reasons:
- Coverage
Coverage provided by a foundation is of course very important. The foundation you choose must be able to match your skin tone and have additional coverage to hide your blemishes, dark spots, freckles, uneven pigmentation, and fine lines without looking too made up.
- Finish
The finish of the foundation that you finally choose should be based on what type of texture post makeup you prefer and if your skin is compatible with it. If you like a dewy makeup finish but your skin constantly produces excess sebum it will not make sense for you.
- Ease of Application
The ease of application of a foundation is important because we often tend to find ourselves in situations where make up may have to be applied at the last minute or in a rush. Make sure to check reviews online to know people’s experience of using the product. The easier it is to apply it in a fuss-free manner the better it is for you to choose that foundation.
Infographic: Best Way To Apply Japanese Foundation For A Flawless Finish
Japanese foundations are best for those who prefer minimal makeup and want to keep it natural. The application process is also somewhat different from Western and Korean makeup techniques. The focus is on light coverage, without accentuating the features. If you are smitten with the mochi skin (the Japanese version of the Korean glass skin) and want to achieve that look with makeup, we have shared a simple foundation application guide in the infographic below. Scroll down to learn how to get the best out of your Japanese foundation.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
The best Japanese foundations are available in various textures, finishes, and they stay put irrespective of weather conditions. Japanese foundations are a perfect combination of skin care and makeup. The products reviewed in the curated list have a non-comedogenic formula, offer SPF protection and buildable coverage, and are enriched with natural ingredients. Consider the coverage, finish, and ease of application while choosing the best Japanese foundations. When it comes to coverage, the celebrity-favorite Koh Gen Do Maifanshi Aqua Foundation offers sheer, buildable coverage, while the Hourglass Vanish Seamless Finish Foundation Stick has the coverage of a concealer. If you need a formulation that offers a natural, skin-like coverage, the RMK Liquid Foundation is a great choice. We also recommend you use a setting powder after applying the foundation if you want your base to be smooth and last longer. You will achieve a flawless base finish based on your skin tone and skin needs with these expertly crafted Japanese foundations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Japanese foundations good?
Most of the Japanese foundations offer perfect coverage, from full to medium, and also include SPF in them. To say they are good is an understatement.
Why are Japanese foundations better?
Japanese foundations are lightweight, provide UV protection by blocking the rays, moisturize your skin and offer buildable coverage which is hard to find together in a single foundation elsewhere.
Do the Japanese wear foundation?
Yes, a foundation has a central role in the Japanese makeup routine. Liquid and powder foundations are the most preferred formulas.
Do the Japanese use moisturizers?
Most Japanese people prefer hydrating products over moisturizing ones. In Japanese makeup culture, lotions and face oils are more common than moisturizers.
What happens if we directly apply a Japanese foundation on the face?
Most Japanese foundations are lightweight and hydrating. They offer natural coverage, but using them directly on the face without a primer may accentuate the fine lines, creases, and wrinkles on mature skin.
How many hours do the Japanese foundations last?
Most Japanese foundations last for eight hours and more.
How do you pick a foundation color?
Here are some quick tips to choose the right foundation shade and color.
• Pick two-three foundations close to your complexion.
• Choose the shade closest to your complexion and apply a bit of the product on the center of your face and blend out towards the jawline and hairline.
• If your neck and face are of different shades, pick the lighter shade.
• Do not forget to consider the undertone of your skin. Pick a foundation with yellow undertones if you have warm skin tones and one with pink undertones if you have cool skin tones.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Chaitra Krishnan, the author, is a makeup enthusiast with a deep interest in the latest beauty trends. She understands the craze around the Japanese foundations, which are known for their hydrating formulations and give a dewy finish. She exhaustively researched Japanese foundations, shortlisted the most highly rated ones, and reviewed them for our readers in this article. The products listed here have been formulated to combine skin care with makeup and suit every skin type.
