2. Product Categories

Cosmetics
Japan

This section provides the regulatory definition of the category in scope, or the appropriate category for the product in scope. Additionally, it provides the products that belong to this category along with the definition and specific information on each of these types of products.

2.1 Category Name & Definition

Category Name

Cosmetics

Definition

Cosmetics are defined as products that have mild action on the human body and are applied by rubbing, sprinkling, or other methods, which aim to clean, beautify, and increase attractiveness, alter the appearance, or keep the skin or hair in good condition.

Regulatory Framework

Japan's regulatory classifies beauty products broadly into two types: Cosmetics and Quasi-drugs.

The distinction between cosmetics and quasi-drugs is based on differences in the effects of the product, nature, the number of ingredients used, the application method, and the product's appearance.

The regulations governing each category differ slightly, and the requirements for quasi-drugs are more strict.

This guidebook only covers only general cosmetics regulation and not quasi-drug products.

Cosmetics Categories

In the Japanese market, cosmetics are further classified into 6 different categories

1. Hair care
2. Skin Care
3. Make-up Cosmetics 
4. Perfumes and Eau de Cologne
5. Special-purpose cosmetics
6. Cosmetic soaps: Soaps for cosmetics

2.2 Subcategories

1) Hair Care

1. Hair styling agent
2. Hair conditioner
3. Scalp treatment
4. Hair colorant
5. Hair cleanser
6. Hair rinse
   

2) Skin Care

1. Lotion 
2. Essence 
3. Cream
4. Milky lotion 
5. Suntan lotion 
6. Sunscreen
7. Cleanser 
8. Shaving lotion 
9. Facial rinse 
10. Pack
11. Cosmetic oil
12. Body rinse 
13. Massaging agent

3) Make-up Cosmetics

1. Foundations
2. Makeup bases 
3. Lipsticks
4. Eye makeup
5. Cheek makeup
6. Body makeup
   

4) Perfumes and Eau de Cologne

1. Perfumes
2. Eau de Cologne

5) Special-purpose Cosmetics

1. Sunscreen
2. Shaving cream
3. Others

6) Cosmetic Soaps

1. Bath cosmetics
2. Soaps cosmetics

2.3 References

1. Cosmetic Fair Trade Conference:

https://www.cftc.jp/kiyaku/kiyaku02-1.html