When learning Japanese, it’s fascinating to explore how the language encapsulates aspects of beauty and cosmetics. Whether you’re shopping in Tokyo’s trendy districts or simply looking to expand your vocabulary, these terms will enhance your linguistic and cultural understanding.
美容 (びよう, biyou) – This refers to “beauty” in the sense of physical appearance and grooming.
彼女は美容にとても興味があります。
(She is very interested in beauty.)
化粧品 (けしょうひん, keshouhin) – This word means “cosmetics” or “makeup products.”
彼女は新しい化粧品を買いました。
(She bought new cosmetics.)
スキンケア (sukinkeaa) – Skincare, an essential part of daily beauty routines.
彼はスキンケアに時間をかけることにしています。
(He decided to spend time on skincare.)
メイクアップ (meikuappu) – This is the Japanese adaptation of the English phrase “makeup.”
彼女はパーティーのために特別なメイクアップをしました。
(She did special makeup for the party.)
クレンジング (kurenjingu) – Refers to “cleansing,” particularly in the context of removing makeup.
クレンジングをすることは、肌を健康に保つのに重要です。
(Cleansing is important for keeping the skin healthy.)
化粧水 (けしょうすい, keshousui) – Toner, a lotion used in skincare to cleanse and hydrate the skin.
彼女は化粧水を毎晩使います。
(She uses toner every night.)
乳液 (にゅうえき, nyuueki) – This word means “emulsion” or “moisturizer.”
乾燥肌のために、高保湿の乳液を選びました。
(For dry skin, she chose a highly moisturizing emulsion.)
美容液 (びようえき, biyoueki) – Known as “serum” or “essence,” these are concentrated formulas designed to target specific skin concerns.
この美容液は肌のハリを改善します。
(This serum improves skin elasticity.)
ファンデーション (fandeeshon) – The word for “foundation,” a skin-colored makeup applied to the face.
彼女は自然な仕上がりのファンデーションを探しています。
(She is looking for a foundation with a natural finish.)
マスカラ (masukara) – Mascara, used to enhance the eyelashes.
彼女は防水マスカラを使用しています。
(She uses waterproof mascara.)
アイシャドウ (aishadou) – Eyeshadow, used to make the wearer’s eyes stand out.
彼女は青いアイシャドウを選びました。
(She chose blue eyeshadow.)
リップスティック (rippusutikku) – Lipstick, a cosmetic product containing pigments for applying color and texture to the lips.
赤いリップスティックをつけると、顔色が明るく見えます。
(Wearing red lipstick makes her complexion look brighter.)
ネイル (neiru) – Refers generally to nails but commonly used in the context of “nail polish” or “nail art.”
彼女はネイルアートに夢中です。
(She is obsessed with nail art.)
美容院 (びよういん, biyouin) – Beauty salon, a place for professional beauty treatments.
彼女は美容院で髪を染めました。
(She dyed her hair at the beauty salon.)
美容師 (びようし, biyoushi) – Beautician or beauty therapist.
美容師は顧客の要望に応じてヘアスタイルを提案します。
(The beautician suggests hairstyles according to the customer’s request.)
整形外科 (せいけいげか, seikeigeka) – Plastic surgery, for those interested in more permanent changes.
彼は整形外科で相談した後、手術を決めました。
(He decided on surgery after consulting with the plastic surgeon.)
Understanding these terms will not only help you navigate the beauty and cosmetics landscape in Japan but also provide a deeper insight into the cultural priorities and aesthetic preferences that are prevalent in Japanese society. Whether discussing skincare routines, exploring beauty products, or visiting salons, these words will undoubtedly enrich your conversations and experiences in Japan.
