10 Japanese Makeup Trends You Need to Try Now

Unveiling the Beauty Secrets of Japan

From the subtle blush of a hangover cheek to the captivating allure of wide, doll-like eyes, Japanese makeup trends have taken the world by storm. These techniques blend ancient traditions with modern influences, creating a unique approach to highlighting natural beauty. Understanding the core principles behind these trends is key to unlocking their potential.

Whether you're aiming for the highly sought-after "mochi skin" or perfecting the art of "puppy dog eyes," the magic lies in meticulous application and a harmonious balance between color, texture, and technique. Japanese beauty ideals have long emphasized a youthful, ethereal aesthetic, often inspired by nature and cultural nuances.

This delicate interplay of tradition and innovation is what makes Japanese makeup trends so captivating and enduring. They offer a fresh perspective on beauty, emphasizing enhancement rather than transformation. It’s about celebrating individuality and embracing a natural, radiant look.

Exploring 10 Captivating Trends

In this article, we'll delve into ten captivating Japanese makeup trends that have captivated beauty enthusiasts worldwide. We’ll break down the techniques, explore the philosophy behind each look, and provide you with practical tips to incorporate these beauty secrets into your own makeup routine.

From the subtle art of igari makeup to the bold statement of shironuri, we’ll uncover the techniques that define these trends. Learn how to create the illusion of flushed cheeks using cream blushes or achieve the perfect gradient lip for a youthful pout. We'll also explore the emphasis on natural-looking eyebrows and the transformative power of double cleansing.

Elevate Your Beauty Game

Get ready to be inspired and discover new ways to enhance your natural beauty. Whether you’re a seasoned makeup artist or just starting your beauty journey, these Japanese makeup trends offer something for everyone. Prepare to unlock the secrets to achieving a flawless, radiant look that embodies the essence of Japanese beauty.

1. Igari/Hangover Blush

The Igari blush, also known as "hangover makeup" or "drunk blush," is a quintessential Japanese makeup trend. It's taken the beauty world by storm with its focus on creating a flushed, youthful look. Think of the rosy cheeks you get after a couple of drinks – that's the inspiration.

Unlike the sharp contours often seen in Western makeup, Igari blush emphasizes a natural, innocent flush. This embodies the Japanese aesthetic of kawaii (cute). It’s all about a soft, gentle glow.

Application and Popular Colors

This blush style differs significantly from traditional application. Instead of just the apples of the cheeks, Igari blush goes across the bridge of the nose and sometimes even lightly under the eyes. This creates a diffused, sun-kissed look, not sculpted cheekbones.

Popular shades include soft pinks, peaches, and reds. These colors enhance the youthful, almost childlike effect. Keeping other makeup minimal allows the blush to be the star, resulting in a fresh-faced, effortlessly charming appearance.

The Rise of Igari Blush

Makeup artist Igari Shinobu, whose name inspired the trend, helped popularize this unique look. Canmake, a Japanese beauty brand, made the look accessible with their affordable blush products. Features in Japanese beauty magazines like ViVi and Non-no further boosted the trend's popularity.

Igari blush eventually crossed borders, influencing Korean beauty trends and exploding onto the global stage via platforms like TikTok. Japanese actress Yamamoto Maika often sports this style, showcasing its versatility.

Pros and Cons of the Igari Blush

Pros:

• Creates a youthful, fresh-faced appearance
• Easy to achieve with minimal products, perfect for everyday makeup
• Complements the kawaii aesthetic

Cons:

• Can resemble a rash if applied too heavily; careful application is crucial
• May not suit all face shapes or skin tones; experimentation is encouraged
• Might not be appropriate for formal settings in some cultures

Tips for Achieving the Igari Blush Look

• Use cream or liquid blush: These blend seamlessly for a natural, dewy finish.
• Apply with fingertips or a beauty sponge: This diffuses the color, avoiding harsh lines.
• Layer gradually: Start with a small amount and build up the intensity.
• Keep eye makeup minimal: Let the blush be the focal point.

By following these tips and understanding the nuances of this trend, you can achieve the charming glow of the Igari blush, adding a touch of Japanese kawaii to your routine.

2. Mochi Skin

Forget thick, full-coverage foundations. Mochi skin, inspired by the soft texture of Japanese mochi (rice cake), prioritizes a translucent, hydrated complexion with a subtle dewiness. Unlike the high-shine "glass skin" trend, mochi skin focuses on a smooth, supple finish. This approach prioritizes skincare, letting your natural radiance shine through.

This trend emphasizes skin texture and health. It favors a dewy—but not overly shiny—finish. Instead of masking imperfections with layers of makeup, mochi skin embraces a translucent, natural look. This means minimal powder, allowing the skin's natural luminosity to be the star.

This also makes it more comfortable, especially in humid climates. It requires far less maintenance compared to matte foundation looks. This makes it a popular choice for those seeking a more natural, everyday makeup style.

The rise of mochi skin reflects a shift towards natural, healthy beauty. Brands like Shiseido, Suqqu, and Three Cosmetics champion this aesthetic. They often feature models with this dewy finish in their campaigns. Beauty magazines like MAQUIA and VOCE also showcase mochi skin, solidifying its status as a desirable look. Makeup artist Sada Ito is also credited with popularizing the trend, advocating for dedicated skincare as the foundation for flawless makeup.

While flattering, achieving mochi skin requires a good underlying skin condition. It may not provide enough coverage for those with significant skin concerns. Also, without the right products, this dewy finish can appear oily throughout the day.

Pros and Cons of Mochi Skin

Pros:

• Creates a natural, youthful appearance
• Focuses on skin health
• Comfortable in humid climates
• Low maintenance

Cons:

• Requires good skin condition
• May not provide full coverage
• Can appear oily without proper products

Tips for Achieving Mochi Skin

• Hydration is Key: Start with a robust hydrating skincare routine.
• Lightweight Base: Use lightweight, water-based foundations or tinted moisturizers.
• Conceal Strategically: Use concealer only where needed.
• Powder Sparingly: Set with minimal translucent powder, focusing on the T-zone.
• Refresh Throughout the Day: Use a facial mist to maintain hydration and dewiness.

You might be interested in: Our guide on all BuyMeJapan collections for more Japanese beauty products.

3. Byojaku Makeup (Sickly-Cute)

Byojaku, meaning "sickly-cute," is a unique Japanese makeup trend. It centers around a delicate, fragile aesthetic, creating the impression of vulnerability. While unconventional to Western eyes, Byojaku's ethereal beauty has captured a significant following, particularly within Japanese pop culture and online spaces.

Byojaku makeup features pale, almost translucent skin. A reddish tint around the eyes mimics allergies or fatigue, combined with downturned or "sad" eye makeup. Lips are muted, and contouring or bronzer is avoided entirely. This creates a fragile, doll-like look, resonating with aspects of kawaii (cute) culture.

Byojaku's origins trace back to Japanese street fashion subcultures, notably in Harajuku. The ethereal and romantic styles of Mori girl and Dolly-kei fashion embraced this look. Ettusais, a makeup brand, along with popular Japanese beauty YouTubers like Akihabara Princess helped propel the trend. Japanese model Aiba Runa often sports the aesthetic, and it’s frequently featured in Japanese fashion magazines like KERA and LARME.

Advantages of Byojaku Makeup

• Distinctive Style: It creates a unique look, diverging from typical makeup styles.
• Cultural Significance: Embodies the Japanese aesthetic of fragile beauty, a valued concept in Japanese culture.
• Simplicity: Often requires fewer products than other trends, making it accessible and easy to achieve.
• Anime & Manga Connection: Popular within anime and manga-inspired fashion, further cementing its place in Japanese pop culture.

You might be interested in learning more about Japanese fashion trends: Our blog articles

Drawbacks of Byojaku Makeup

• Misinterpretation: Can be mistaken for genuine illness by those unfamiliar with the trend.
• Professional Appropriateness: Generally not suited for professional environments.
• Potential Concerns: May reinforce potentially harmful beauty standards relating to thinness and fragility.

Tips for Achieving the Byojaku Look:

• Eyeshadow: Cool-toned pinks and reds around the eyes create the illusion of redness and puffiness.
• Foundation: A very light foundation, sometimes a shade lighter than your natural skin tone, creates a pale, translucent base.
• Contouring/Highlighting: Avoid these products entirely for a softer look.
• Blush: Minimal blush in cool pink tones, applied high on the cheekbones, provides a subtle flush.
• Lips: Use a tinted balm or sheer lipstick in muted shades.

Byojaku makeup earns its spot on this list as a significant and unique trend in Japanese beauty culture. It offers a compelling look into evolving beauty ideals and the cultural influences shaping our perceptions of attractiveness. While not for everyone, Byojaku presents a distinct and intriguing alternative to mainstream makeup trends.

4. Puppy Dog Eyes

Puppy Dog Eyes have become a staple in modern Japanese makeup, offering a sweet and youthful look compared to the sharp lines of a Western cat-eye. This trend emphasizes a rounded, downturned eye shape for an innocent, endearing appearance that perfectly embodies the kawaii (cute) aesthetic so popular in Japanese culture. It’s a distinct shift from Western makeup, which often favors a lifted, elongated eye, making this trend a truly unique addition to our list.

This technique creates the illusion of bigger, rounder eyes. Instead of an upward flick of eyeliner, the Puppy Dog Eyes technique extends the liner downwards at the outer corners, gently following the eye's natural curve. This, along with emphasizing the lower lash line and using techniques to round the eye's appearance, creates the signature "puppy dog" look. Circle lenses or other eye-enlarging makeup techniques enhance this wide-eyed effect.

Why the Puppy Dog Eyes Trend Is So Popular

Several factors contribute to this trend's widespread appeal. The look is softer and more approachable than a dramatic cat-eye, making it suitable for everyday wear. It’s especially flattering for people with naturally downturned or round eyes, accentuating their features. Moreover, it complements the overall Japanese aesthetic of kawaii, which values cuteness, youth, and innocence.

Brands like Dolly Wink and Koji have helped popularize this look, along with influencers like Pony Syndrome and the Gyaru subculture. Japanese actress Hashimoto Kanna, known for her youthful charm, often sports this look, further solidifying its place in pop culture. Similarly, many K-pop idols have embraced the trend, spreading its influence across East Asia and beyond.

Pros and Cons of the Puppy Dog Eyes Look

Pros:

• Creates a youthful, innocent, and kawaii look.
• More wearable and understated than a dramatic cat-eye.
• Flattering for those with downturned or round eyes.

Cons:

• Might make eyes appear sad or tired if not applied carefully.
• May not suit all eye shapes.
• Not ideal for a mature or sophisticated style.

Tips for Achieving Puppy Dog Eyes

• Soften the Liner: Use brown eyeliner instead of black for a softer look.
• Follow Your Natural Curve: Extend your liner slightly downwards, following your eye's natural curve.
• Focus on Center Lashes: Apply mascara or false lashes primarily to the center lashes for added roundness.
• Create Roundness With Eyeshadow: Apply a light eyeshadow to the center of your eyelid to create dimension and roundness.
• Open Up the Eyes: Use highlighter in the inner corners to brighten your eyes.

By mastering these simple tips, you can easily incorporate the charm of Puppy Dog Eyes into your makeup routine and embrace this quintessential element of Japanese makeup.

5. Gradient Lips

The gradient lip, also known as "popsicle lips" or "blotted lips," holds a special place in Japanese makeup trends. It perfectly captures the popular "effortless beauty" look. This technique creates a soft, diffused color concentrated in the inner lips, gradually fading outwards.

The result resembles naturally stained lips, as if you've just bitten into a ripe berry or enjoyed a popsicle. This style emphasizes youthfulness and a natural, almost innocent beauty, aligning with East Asian beauty ideals.

The gradient lip has a few key characteristics: concentrated color in the center, softly blurred edges without sharp lines, and a preference for sheer reds, pinks, and corals in a matte or semi-matte finish. This differs greatly from the bold, defined lips often seen in Western makeup.

Why the Gradient Lip Is So Popular

Several factors contribute to the gradient lip's widespread popularity:

• Youthful and Natural Appearance: The look creates the illusion of naturally flushed lips, giving a youthful, innocent vibe.

• Subtle Enhancement: It subtly enhances lips without being overpowering, creating a balanced look. It can also make lips appear smaller, often seen as desirable in East Asian beauty standards.

• Long-Lasting Color: Mimicking a stain, gradient lips tend to last and don't need frequent touch-ups, perfect for busy days.

Drawbacks of the Gradient Lip

While popular, the gradient lip technique also has some downsides:

• Tricky Application: Achieving the perfect gradient can be challenging. It takes practice to blend seamlessly without harsh lines.

• Not for Volumizing: This trend isn't ideal for those wanting fuller-looking lips, as it tends to minimize their appearance.

• Potential for Dryness: The matte finish can sometimes be drying, especially without proper lip prep.

The Rise of the Gradient Lip

Several factors contributed to the rise of the gradient lip. Japanese cosmetics brands like Opera with their sheer lip tints and Canmake with their affordable lip products played a key role. The influence of Korean beauty trends, particularly gradient lip tints from brands like Etude House, also helped. Beauty YouTubers like Kawaii Pateen fueled the trend with tutorials and application techniques. Japanese fashion magazines like JJ and CanCam featuring models with this lip style further solidified its mainstream status. Japanese actress Hashimoto Ai, often seen sporting the gradient lip, also influenced its popularity.

Mastering the Gradient Lip

Here's how to achieve the perfect gradient lip:

1. Prep your lips: Apply lip balm for hydration and a smooth base.

2. Apply color to the center: Dab your lip product (tint or lipstick) onto the center of your lips.

3. Blend outwards: Gently blend the color outwards using your finger, a lip brush, or a sponge.

4. Concealer for a sharper gradient (optional): Use a little concealer around the lip line for a cleaner fade.

5. Set with powder (optional): Dust translucent powder over your lips for longer wear.

6. Dedicated gradient lip products: Consider trying products with two shades designed for this technique.

With practice and these tips, you can master the gradient lip and achieve the effortlessly chic, natural look that's a hallmark of Japanese makeup.

6. Harajuku Decora Makeup

Harajuku Decora makeup is a vibrant and unique trend in Japanese makeup. Unlike styles that emphasize natural beauty or subtle enhancements, Decora makeup is all about maximalism and playful artistry. Inspired by the energetic street style of Tokyo's Harajuku district, this trend focuses on self-expression, incorporating elements of fantasy, anime, kawaii culture, and lots of color.

Decora's key features include bright, contrasting eyeshadows; decorative elements like face stickers, gems, and even small toys; a generous amount of glitter and metallics; and unconventional color combinations. Imagine vibrant pinks with electric blues or neon greens accented with sparkling gold. Dramatic false eyelashes, sometimes in bright colors or adorned with decorations, complete the look.

This playful trend provides an outlet for personal artistic expression, allowing individuals to create distinctive and eye-catching looks. It's no surprise that Decora makeup has gained popularity in fashion photography and artistic contexts, appealing to fans of anime, manga, and Japanese pop culture.

Decora's Influence on Pop Culture and Fashion

Performers like Kyary Pamyu Pamyu have helped solidify Decora's place in mainstream Japanese pop culture, showcasing its bold aesthetic in music videos and live performances. Brands like 6%DOKIDOKI and WEGO cater to this trend, offering a wide array of clothing and accessories. Even high fashion, as seen in experimental looks at Tokyo Fashion Week, occasionally draws inspiration from Decora's energy.

However, Decora's exuberance isn't suitable for everyday wear in most situations. The application and removal process can be time-consuming, and the heavy use of products might be uncomfortable for long periods. Finding the specialized products needed can also be challenging and expensive.

Pros and Cons of Decora Makeup

Pros	Cons
Allows for personal artistic expression	Not practical for everyday wear
Creates a distinctive, eye-catching look	Time-consuming application and removal
Popular in creative fields	Can be uncomfortable for extended wear
Appeals to fans of Japanese pop culture	Requires specialized products that can be expensive

Tips for Achieving the Decora Look

• Prime your eyelids: A good eye primer will make bright colors pop and prevent creasing.
• Invest in skin-safe adhesives: Use adhesives designed for the face when applying gems or stickers.
• Consider water-activated face paints: These offer vibrant, opaque color for bold designs.
• Layer lashes: Multiple pairs of false lashes, in varying colors or styles, contribute to the dramatic aesthetic.
• Practice removal techniques: Develop a gentle routine to avoid skin irritation.

Harajuku Decora makeup represents a unique aspect of Japanese beauty culture—one that prioritizes self-expression and artistic exploration. It demonstrates makeup's power as a medium for creativity and individuality. For more information on where to find Japanese beauty products, you might be interested in this guide. The evolution of Decora, from Harajuku street style to influencing mainstream fashion and pop culture, showcases its lasting impact. Makeup artist Tadashi Harada is also a key figure known for his Decora-inspired looks.

7. Aegyo-sal (Charming Eye Fat)

Aegyo-sal, meaning "charming eye fat," is a Korean-born makeup trend that's taken Japan by storm. This technique accentuates the subtle puff of fat under the lower eyelid, a feature that naturally becomes more visible when smiling. Unlike Western makeup, which often conceals this area, aegyo-sal embraces and enhances it, creating the illusion of larger, brighter, more youthful eyes. This emphasis on a perpetually cheerful look has made aegyo-sal a cornerstone of Japanese makeup.

Aegyo-sal involves highlighting the under-eye puff and applying a subtle shadow just above it. This creates dimension and emphasizes the desired fullness. It often complements the "puppy dog eye" makeup look, further contributing to a sweet, doe-eyed appearance. The goal is to achieve a “smiling eyes” effect, even with a neutral expression.

Why Aegyo-sal Is Trending

This trend perfectly embodies the Japanese aesthetic of "kawaii" (cute) and youthful beauty. Its popularity reflects a cultural appreciation for wide, innocent eyes, often seen in anime and manga. The technique’s versatility, from subtle enhancements for everyday wear to bolder looks for special occasions, adds to its widespread appeal.

Pros:

• Larger, More Youthful Eyes: Aegyo-sal creates the illusion of bigger, brighter eyes, contributing to a younger look.
• Cheerful Vibe: The “smiling eyes” effect projects a friendly and welcoming aura.
• Versatile Application: The intensity can be adjusted to suit any occasion or preference.
• Complements Japanese Aesthetics: It perfectly aligns with the "kawaii" and youthful beauty trends.

Cons:

• Emphasis on Eye Bags: Incorrect application can accidentally highlight existing eye bags or create unwanted puffiness.
• Unnatural Appearance: On those without naturally prominent under-eye fat, aegyo-sal can look forced if not applied carefully.
• Confusion with Dark Circles: Poor execution of the shadowing technique can be mistaken for dark circles.

Examples and Popularity

Aegyo-sal's prevalence in Japanese pop culture is undeniable, seen in its adoption by idols, such as members of AKB48, and its regular features in beauty magazines like ViVi. Japanese makeup brand Cezanne offers products specifically designed for this look. Beauty influencers like Keikochu further contribute to its popularity through tutorials and endorsements. Its inclusion in anime and manga character designs has solidified its place in Japanese beauty culture.

Tips for Achieving Aegyo-sal

• Highlight: Apply a shimmery cream or powder highlighter directly to the puffy area under your lower eyelid.
• Shadow: Use a matte brown eyeshadow to create a soft shadow just above the highlighted area for depth and definition.
• Placement: If you don't have natural aegyo-sal, gently puff out your lower lids while applying highlighter to find the right spot.
• Concealer: Use minimal undereye concealer to avoid hiding the highlighted area. Focus on concealing discoloration, not covering the entire under-eye.
• Blending: Blend the highlighter and shadow seamlessly with your fingertips for a natural finish.

By understanding the nuances of aegyo-sal and using these tips, you can incorporate this charming trend into your makeup routine and embrace a youthful, bright-eyed aesthetic.

8. Minimal Eyebrow Makeup (Straight Brows)

Straight, softly defined eyebrows have become a key feature of Japanese makeup trends. This look offers a distinct contrast to the bold, arched brows often seen in Western makeup. The effect is a youthful, innocent look that gives an impression of gentle approachability. This minimalist approach to eyebrow styling complements the Japanese emphasis on natural beauty.

Instead of dramatically reshaping or heavily filling in the brows, the Japanese straight brow focuses on a horizontal shape. There is little to no arch, sometimes even a slightly downturned tail. The edges are soft and diffused, not sharp or heavily defined. The brows themselves are often slightly shorter than the natural brow line. The color palette favors soft browns for subtle definition, avoiding harsh, dark blacks.

Why Straight Brows Are Trending

This trend represents a significant shift from Western brow ideals. It truly captures the core of Japanese makeup aesthetics. The focus is on enhancing natural features, not drastically changing them. This contributes to a harmonious and balanced overall appearance.

Features and Benefits of Straight Brows

• Horizontal Shape: Creates a youthful and innocent impression.
• Soft Edges: Gives a natural, gentle look.
• Shorter Length: Further emphasizes the youthful appearance.
• Soft Brown Shades: Complements natural hair and skin tones for subtle definition.

Pros of Straight Brows

• Youthful Appearance: Softens facial features for a more approachable look.
• Low Maintenance: Easier to maintain than heavily styled, arched brows.
• Complements Round Faces: Works well with common East Asian facial features.
• Easy to Achieve: Minimal products and skills are required.

Cons of Straight Brows

• Reshaping May Be Necessary: Those with naturally arched brows might need to reshape their brow hair.
• Less Face-Lifting Effect: Arched brows are often seen as creating a more lifted appearance.
• Potential for Sternness: Depending on face shape, straight brows might appear unintentionally stern.

Straight Brows in Popular Culture

The straight brow look has been embraced by influential figures like actress Ishihara Satomi, whose brows are a perfect example of this trend. Popular Japanese fashion magazines like MAQUIA often feature this look. Brands like Kate, known for its accessible brow products, and Shu Uemura, with its specialized brow techniques, have helped to popularize the trend. Beauty influencers, such as RinRin, and even character designs in anime and manga further solidify the straight brow's place in Japanese beauty culture.

Tips for Achieving Straight Brows

• Brow Mascara: Use a brow mascara in a shade slightly lighter than your hair color for a soft look.
• Pencil Technique: Fill in sparse areas with light, feathery strokes using a hard formula brow pencil. Avoid heavy pomades or waxes.
• Trimming: If your brows have a pronounced arch, you might consider trimming the tail slightly.
• Setting Gel: Set your brows with a clear brow gel, brushing the hairs downwards at the outer ends to create the straight shape.

By following these tips and understanding the principles of this trend, you can easily incorporate this effortlessly chic Japanese brow style into your makeup routine.

9. Doll-Like Eye Makeup

Doll-like eye makeup, a key element of several Japanese beauty trends, earns its place on this list due to its unique aesthetic and cultural significance. Unlike Western makeup, which often emphasizes contour and depth, this look prioritizes a wide-eyed, innocent appearance reminiscent of dolls or anime characters. Specific techniques involving highlights, shadows, and false lashes are used to create the illusion of larger, rounder eyes.

A defining feature of doll-like eye makeup is the use of light, often white or pearly, eyeshadow applied to the center of the eyelid and under the brow bone. Darker shadows are used strategically, not for contouring, but to enhance the appearance of roundness. False eyelashes are essential, with the longest lashes placed in the center of the eye, rather than the outer corners, to further amplify this effect.

Emphasis on the lower lashes, achieved by drawing them in with eyeliner or applying individual false lashes, also contributes to the doll-like appearance. Circle lenses, which enlarge the iris, are frequently used to complete the look.

Cultural Influences and Popular Figures

This trend's popularity stems from various aspects of Japanese pop culture. The Gyaru subculture, known for its youthful and playful aesthetics, played a significant role in its emergence. Makeup artist and model Kimura U, along with the iconic brand Dollywink by Tsubasa Masuwaka, further propelled the style into the mainstream.

Manga and anime, with their characteristic large-eyed characters, also provide ongoing inspiration, solidifying doll-like eye makeup as a distinctly Japanese beauty trend. Examples of this trend frequently appear in magazines like Popteen, showcasing the latest techniques often promoted by artists like IKUMI, renowned for her signature doll-eye looks. Japanese Lolita fashion, with its focus on doll-like features and clothing, often incorporates this makeup style.

Pros and Cons of Doll-Like Eye Makeup

Pros:

• Distinctive Aesthetic: Creates a recognizable and unique look.
• Larger Eyes: Gives the illusion of significantly larger eyes.
• Creative Versatility: A popular choice for cosplay, themed events, and artistic makeup.
• Fashionable Pairing: Complements Japanese fashion subcultures, especially Lolita.

Cons:

• Context Dependent: May appear out of place or costume-like in some settings.
• Circle Lens Care: Requires diligent hygiene and care if using circle lenses.
• Time Commitment: Achieving a polished doll-eye look can be time-consuming.
• Suitability: May not suit all eye shapes.

Tips for Achieving Doll-Like Eye Makeup

• Apply white or pearl eyeshadow to the center of the lid and under the brow bone.
• Use false lashes that are longest in the middle, gradually shortening towards the outer corners.
• Draw lower lashes with a thin eyeliner or use individual false lashes.
• Consider circle lenses for special occasions, but prioritize proper care and hygiene.
• Apply white or flesh-toned eyeliner to the waterline to further enhance the illusion of larger eyes.

By understanding the techniques and cultural influences behind doll-like eye makeup, you can appreciate its artistry and impact on Japanese beauty trends.

10. Fox Eye Glitter

Fox Eye Glitter is a captivating example of how Japanese makeup trends blend tradition with modern aesthetics. Inspired by the mystique of the kitsune (fox) from Japanese folklore, known for their cunning and magic, this look incorporates the contemporary fascination with glitter and sparkle, a key element of Japanese kawaii culture. The result? An enchanting and trendy style.

The defining feature of Fox Eye Glitter is the elongated eyeshadow shape, extending outwards and upwards towards the temples. This mimics the sharp, elegant lines often associated with fox eyes in art. Glitter or shimmer accentuates this elongated shape, typically applied with a graduated intensity. The sparkle is concentrated at the outer corner of the eye and fades inwards, creating a mesmerizing gradient. Gold, copper, and red tones, echoing the hues of a fox's fur, are popular choices, adding to the mystical aura. A sharp wing or flick at the outer corner completes the look, drawing the eye outwards and upwards, while minimal makeup on the lower lid keeps the focus on the dazzling upper lid.

The Rise of Fox Eye Glitter

This trend's rise can be attributed to both high-fashion influence and social media. Japanese fashion editorials, notably in publications like VOGUE Japan, showcased the look in stylized shoots, while runway makeup at Tokyo Fashion Week cemented its presence. Influential figures like Kimura Yui and RinRin Doll, known for their creative makeup, embraced and adapted the trend, sharing it with a wider audience through tutorials and social media posts. Street style photographers in Tokyo, always at the forefront of emerging trends, captured the Fox Eye Glitter look on fashionable individuals, further fueling its organic growth and popularity. Brands like ADDICTION Tokyo and Shiseido, known for their innovative runway makeup, played a significant role in its mainstream adoption.

Pros and Cons of Fox Eye Glitter

Pros:

• Mystical and Unique: Fox Eye Glitter creates a striking and memorable aesthetic.
• Balanced Creativity: It offers a balance between bold creativity and everyday wearability, unlike some more dramatic Harajuku styles.
• Perfect for Special Occasions: The sparkle and drama are ideal for parties and nighttime events.
• Traditional Influence: The look incorporates elements of classic Japanese aesthetics in a modern way.

Cons:

• Precise Application: Achieving the perfect elongated shape and glitter gradient requires skill and practice.
• Glitter Removal and Irritation: Glitter can be difficult to remove and may cause irritation for some. Using proper removal techniques and skin-safe glitter is essential.
• Dramatic for Everyday Wear: The intensity may not be suitable for all occasions.
• Glitter Fallout: Some glitter products can have fallout issues. Choosing high-quality glitter and using a glitter glue can help minimize this.

Tips for Achieving the Fox Eye Glitter Look

• Glitter Glue: Use a glitter glue or sticky primer to maximize adherence and minimize fallout.
• Press, Don't Sweep: Press glitter onto the lid with a flat synthetic brush for a more concentrated and even application. Avoid sweeping motions.
• Gradient Application: Concentrate glitter at the outer corner and fade the intensity inwards for a dimensional effect.
• Safe Glitter: Use skin-safe, biodegradable glitter.
• Clean Lines: Consider using tape to create a clean edge for the fox-eye shape, especially for the winged liner.

Fox Eye Glitter is a beautiful blend of traditional inspiration and contemporary style. With the right techniques and products, you can create a mesmerizing look that embodies the magic of kitsune mythology and the sparkle of modern Japanese beauty.

Top 10 Japanese Makeup Trends: Side-by-Side Comparison

Trend	🔄 Implementation Complexity	⚡ Resource Requirements	📊 Expected Outcomes	💡 Ideal Use Cases	⭐ Key Advantages
Igari/Hangover Blush	Low–Medium; requires careful blush placement	Low; minimal products like cream/liquid blush	Youthful, naturally flushed look	Daily, casual wear embracing kawaii aesthetics	Effortless, fresh-faced style
Mochi Skin	Medium; demands solid skincare prep	Moderate; relies on hydration and lightweight foundations	Translucent, dewy, and youthful skin	Everyday wear in humid climates emphasizing skin health	Enhances natural texture and skin health
Byojaku Makeup (Sickly-Cute)	Medium; technique-sensitive for subtle cues	Low; uses fewer products	Delicate, vulnerable, slightly sickly-cute appearance	Artistic, anime-inspired scenarios; not for formal settings	Distinctive, uniquely edgy aesthetic
Puppy Dog Eyes	Low; simple eyeliner and mascara technique	Low; basic makeup tools suffice	Soft, rounded, and inviting eye appearance	Daily makeup for a sweet, youthful look	Enhances eye shape with a naturally innocent vibe
Gradient Lips	Medium; blending technique can be challenging	Low–Medium; requires lip tints and blending tools	Natural, youthful stained-lip effect	Casual looks with long-wear finish and minimal touch-ups	Subtle, effortless gradient effect
Harajuku Decora Makeup	High; layered, playful, and creative application	High; uses a variety of decorative, specialized products	Vibrant, artistic, and over-the-top makeup look	Fashion events, photoshoots, and bold artistic expression	Highly expressive and attention-grabbing
Aegyo-sal (Charming Eye Fat)	Medium; requires precise highlighting and shadowing	Low; limited product use with highlighters and shadows	Enlarged, cheerful eyes with added dimension	Everyday wear and photo shoots focusing on cute, youthful looks	Instantly enhances a friendly and youthful appearance
Minimal Eyebrow Makeup (Straight Brows)	Low; minimal shaping and filling required	Low; uses simple brow mascara or pencil	Soft, natural, and understated brow definition	Daily subtle makeup styles	Easy maintenance with a naturally youthful finish
Doll-Like Eye Makeup	High; demands detailed highlighting and shadow placement	Medium; involves specialized falsies and optional circle lenses	Dramatically enlarged, doll-like eyes with a wide-eyed look	Cosplay, artistic photo shoots, and special event makeup	Striking, anime-inspired, and distinctive visual effect
Fox Eye Glitter	High; precision needed for gradient glitter application	High; uses specialized glitter products and applicators	Mystical, elongated eyes with sparkling, enchanting accents	Special occasions, nighttime events, and avant-garde makeup looks	Unique fusion of traditional motifs with a modern, dazzling twist

Embrace Your Inner Artist With Japanese Makeup Trends

From the soft, diffused glow of Igari blush to the playful exuberance of Harajuku Decora, Japanese makeup trends offer a wide array of styles to explore and personalize. We’ve journeyed through ten distinct looks, from the naturally flawless Mochi skin to the captivating allure of Doll-like eyes, each emphasizing unique facets of beauty. By understanding the core principles behind these trends – such as enhancing natural features, the use of gradient techniques, and creating specific moods – you can start incorporating these elements into your own makeup routine.

Applying these concepts involves careful observation and experimentation. Start by trying one trend at a time, concentrating on mastering the techniques involved. Watch tutorials on YouTube, practice application, and notice how different products and colors interact with your skin tone and features.

Don't hesitate to adapt and modify these trends to suit your personal style. Japanese makeup is all about self-expression, so have fun playing with different looks and create your own unique interpretations.

The world of Japanese makeup is constantly evolving, with new trends and techniques always emerging. Staying current with these developments can be as easy as following Japanese beauty influencers on Instagram, reading Japanese beauty blogs, and keeping an eye out for new product releases. By remaining curious and open to experimentation, you can continue to refine your makeup skills and discover new ways to express your creativity.

Key Takeaways

• Focus on Natural Features: Japanese makeup often focuses on enhancing natural beauty rather than covering it up.
• Embrace Subtlety: Many Japanese makeup trends prioritize a soft, diffused look, even when using bolder colors.
• Experiment with Gradients: Techniques like gradient lips and Igari blush create a natural, blended look.
• Express Your Individuality: Japanese makeup trends offer a diverse range of styles to suit different personalities and preferences.

Ready to explore the captivating world of Japanese beauty and curate your perfect collection of J-Beauty must-haves? Discover an exceptional range of authentic Japanese cosmetics and skincare at Buy Me Japan. We offer everything you need to recreate these stunning looks, from the latest trending palettes to cult-favorite skincare essentials. Enjoy 10% off your first order, free shipping, and regular promotional deals. Start your J-Beauty journey today and unlock a world of beauty innovation!