Which cosmetics is better: Korean or Japanese?

In addition, against the backdrop of the departure of foreign brands, Russian interest in beauty products from Asia is growing exponentially. But what is the fundamental difference between the two titans of the beauty industry? How can a consumer find their line?

The uniqueness of Japanese cosmetics

Japan is considered to be the birthplace of Asian skincare principles. This is a whole Eastern philosophy. For a long time, Japanese cosmetics manufacturers worked for the domestic market.

The Japanese are attentive to the composition of beauty products, rely on centuries-old traditions, but at the same time regularly update the formulas of popular products. The basis of any cosmetics is natural ingredients, but at the same time, the inhabitants of the Land of the Rising Sun confidently use innovative technologies. It was Japan that discovered hyaluronic acid, coenzymes Q10 and hydrolyzed collagen to the world. And only in Japanese cosmetics there is vitamin C, which scientists have learned to preserve with the help of innovative approaches.

In Japan, care products are often equated with pharmaceutical products - the quality is subject to strict state control. The use of silicones, emulsifiers, synthetic fragrances and dyes is not allowed, so cosmetics from Japan will always have a natural color and aroma.

Features of Korean cosmetics

If Japanese manufacturers did not want to enter the world market, then the Koreans simply did not succeed. The rise in demand for beauty products from Korea has stimulated the creative approach of brands. Korean cosmetics are always something unusual: creams and lotions in fancy-design packages, panda and cat masks.

The Korean beauty industry is fiercely competitive. New brands are born every day, but not everyone can quickly go to the masses. Companies deliberately lower prices and compete in creativity, sometimes forgetting about the lineups. Consumers are worried about frequent rebranding of favorite products and unexpected innovations, but in these conditions diversity is born.

Koreans, like the Japanese, use a lot of natural ingredients. Some are exotic in nature, for example:

- snake venom and its analogues,

- bee venom

- snail mucin,
- swallow's nest extract.

It is important to clarify that at the same time, the use of certain substances banned in Europe is allowed in Korea. There are more than a dozen such controversial ingredients in total. These are carcinogens or esters of phthalic acid - phthalates, which give an instant effect, but are unsafe in large dosages. However, big brands are still striving for sustainability. Most products are free of at least five harmful additives: parabens, artificial colors, GMOs, alcohol and sulfates.

Significant differences in Asian cosmetics

If we make a more direct comparison between Japanese and Korean cosmetics, then the difference will affect the appearance of the products, the principles of work and compositions.

Water in the composition

In Japan, they take only sea or thermal water, and in Korea - distilled. But gradually, Korean manufacturers are moving away from the old norms.

Orientation

The Japanese care system is tied to ancient rituals, while the Korean one is more adapted to the modern rhythm of life. The Japanese are very good at creating anti-aging products, and the Koreans work more for young people without serious skin problems.

Testing

Japanese cosmetics, according to cosmetologists, are considered less allergenic. This has been proven by numerous tests conducted at the global and domestic levels. Koreans, in turn, are proud of the fact that they have massively abandoned animal testing.

Balance of active ingredients

Koreans often underestimate the concentration of active substances in their products in order to reduce the cost of production, which is already complicated by competition. This does not spoil the product, but increases its consumption and reduces efficiency. Japanese brands often release highly concentrated professional formulations for home use.

Appearance

As we have already said, Japanese products will be more concise and restrained in design. Although there are also luxurious gift beauty series. Koreans never limit their imagination.

What cosmetics do you need?

The choice of the party always remains with the consumer. Those who want to save money and get an instant effect will be closer to Korean cosmetics. Fans of natural and safe formulations, proven by time and generations, are more suitable for funds from Japan. But in the end, everything is learned in comparison and through the prism of one's own experience - both countries have been and remain gurus in the Asian market for skin care and color cosmetics.