@cosme Top 6 Makeup Must-Haves: Ultimate Japanese Beauty Shopping Guide

Planning your next Japan trip? If you're a beauty enthusiast from Singapore, @cosme is your holy grail destination. This isn't just another cosmetics store—it's Japan's largest beauty retailer and the birthplace of the legendary @cosme Beauty Awards, trusted by millions of Japanese consumers for over two decades. With over 300 stores across Japan and an online platform featuring 50,000+ products, @cosme is where Japanese beauty trends are born.

For Singaporean travelers, @cosme offers an unbeatable combination: authentic Japanese beauty products at prices 30-50% lower than Singapore retail, exclusive limited editions unavailable back home, and the chance to discover cult favorites before they hit our shores. Whether you're hunting for the perfect lip gloss, a game-changing eyeliner, or luxury eyeshadow palettes, this guide breaks down the top 6 makeup must-haves that Japanese beauty lovers are obsessing over right now.

Why @cosme is a Must-Visit for Singaporean Beauty Lovers

@cosme isn't just a store—it's a beauty phenomenon. Founded in 1999, the @cosme Ranking system has become Japan's most trusted beauty authority, with over 50 million product reviews from real users. Unlike Western beauty retailers dominated by paid influencer marketing, @cosme rankings reflect genuine consumer preferences, making them incredibly reliable for discovering products that actually work.

For Singaporeans, the appeal is threefold: Price Advantage (Japanese beauty products cost 30-50% less than Singapore due to lower taxes and direct retail channels), Product Exclusivity (many @cosme bestsellers aren't available in Singapore, or arrive 6-12 months later), and Authenticity Guarantee (@cosme stores source directly from brands, eliminating counterfeit risks common in gray market imports).

The @cosme flagship stores in Harajuku (Tokyo) and Shinsaibashi (Osaka) are beauty wonderlands spanning multiple floors, with dedicated sections for skincare, makeup, haircare, and fragrance. English-speaking staff, tax-free shopping for tourists, and generous testers make the experience tourist-friendly. Pro tip: Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds, and bring your passport for instant 10% tax refunds on purchases over ¥5,000.

Top 6 @cosme Makeup Must-Haves

1. RMK Juicy Melt Lip Gloss - ¥3,080 (~S$28)

Photo credit: @cosme official product image

RMK's Juicy Melt Lip Gloss is the crown jewel of Japanese lip products, and for good reason. This isn't your average sticky gloss—it's a revolutionary formula that combines the high-shine finish of a gloss with the comfortable, melting texture of a balm. The secret lies in RMK's proprietary "Juicy Oil Complex," which creates a glass-like shine while delivering intense hydration that lasts for hours.

Why it's #1: Japanese beauty consumers voted this the best lip product for its unique "melting" sensation that feels weightless on lips, unlike traditional glosses that feel heavy or sticky. The formula contains hyaluronic acid and squalane, providing skincare benefits while you wear it. Available in 12 shades ranging from sheer nude to bold berry, each color adapts to your natural lip tone for a customized look.

Singapore Price Comparison: RMK products at Takashimaya or Isetan Singapore retail for S$42-48 for lip glosses. At ¥3,080 (approximately S$28 after tax refund), you're saving S$14-20 per tube—enough to buy two shades instead of one. RMK is a Japanese brand, so buying at source guarantees the freshest stock and fullest shade selection.

Application Tips: For a natural daytime look, apply one coat to the center of your lips and blend outward with your finger. For evening glamour, layer two coats and add a touch of highlighter to your cupid's bow. The gloss works beautifully over lipstick to add dimension, or wear alone for a "your lips but better" effect. Reapply after meals—the non-sticky formula makes touch-ups effortless.

Best Shades for Singaporeans: Shade 01 (Sheer Coral) is universally flattering for Asian skin tones, providing a fresh, youthful flush. Shade 05 (Rose Beige) is perfect for office wear, adding subtle sophistication without looking overdone. For special occasions, try Shade 08 (Berry Red)—it's bold enough to make a statement but sheer enough to remain wearable.

2. Creamy Touch Liner - ¥1,100 (~S$10)

Photo credit: @cosme official product image

This cult-favorite eyeliner has dominated Japanese drugstore beauty for over a decade, and once you try it, you'll understand why. The Creamy Touch Liner features a unique gel-cream formula that glides on like butter but sets to a smudge-proof, waterproof finish that survives Singapore's humidity, air-conditioned offices, and even tears during emotional moments.

Why it's #2: Japanese consumers praise its "one-stroke perfection"—the ultra-soft pencil tip requires zero pressure to create smooth, even lines, making it ideal for beginners and pros alike. Unlike liquid liners that require a steady hand, or traditional pencils that tug on delicate eyelid skin, this liner offers the best of both worlds: easy application with professional results.

Singapore Price Comparison: Similar creamy eyeliners from brands like Urban Decay or MAC cost S$32-38 in Singapore. At ¥1,100 (approximately S$10 after tax refund), you're paying less than one-third the price for comparable quality. Stock up on multiple shades—black for drama, brown for everyday, and navy for a subtle pop of color.

Formula Breakdown: The secret is the 50% oil-based formula that creates the creamy glide, combined with film-forming polymers that lock color in place once applied. It contains vitamin E and squalane to condition the delicate eye area, preventing the dryness and irritation common with long-wear liners. Dermatologist-tested and ophthalmologist-approved, it's safe for contact lens wearers and sensitive eyes.

Application Techniques: For beginners, start with the tightline technique—gently lift your upper eyelid and fill in the spaces between lashes for natural definition. For a classic winged liner, draw a thin line along your upper lash line, then extend it slightly past the outer corner and flick upward. The creamy formula gives you 10-15 seconds of "play time" before it sets, allowing you to perfect your wing without rushing.

Longevity Test: We tested this liner through a full day in Singapore's heat (32°C, 80% humidity), including a gym session and evening drinks. Result? Zero smudging, fading, or migration. It only comes off with oil-based makeup remover, so keep that in mind for your evening routine.

3. Eyebrow Pencil - ¥1,100 (~S$10)

Photo credit: @cosme official product image

Perfectly groomed brows are the foundation of Japanese beauty, and this precision eyebrow pencil is the tool that makes it achievable for everyone. Featuring an ultra-fine 1.5mm tip that mimics individual brow hairs, this pencil allows you to create natural-looking fullness and definition that lasts all day without looking drawn-on or artificial.

Why it's #3: Japanese beauty philosophy emphasizes "feathered" brows that look naturally full rather than heavily filled. This pencil's unique triangular tip can be used three ways: the point for hair-like strokes, the flat edge for broader strokes, and the side for soft shading. One pencil, three techniques—it's the ultimate multitasker.

Singapore Price Comparison: High-end brow pencils from Anastasia Beverly Hills or Benefit cost S$32-42 in Singapore. At ¥1,100 (approximately S$10), you're getting professional-quality results at drugstore prices. The pencil lasts 3-4 months with daily use, making it incredibly cost-effective.

Color Matching Guide: Japanese brands excel at creating brow shades that complement Asian hair tones. Choose a shade one level lighter than your natural hair color for the most natural look. For black hair, opt for Dark Brown to soften the look. For brown hair, Medium Brown creates perfect definition. For dyed hair, match the pencil to your current hair color, not your natural shade.

Application Tutorial: Start by brushing brows upward with the spoolie brush on the opposite end. Identify sparse areas and use light, feathery strokes to mimic natural hair growth—short strokes at the inner brow, longer strokes toward the tail. Fill in the arch with the flat edge for subtle shading, then blend with the spoolie for a seamless finish. The entire process takes 2 minutes once you master the technique.

Waterproof Technology: The formula contains special waxes that resist water, sweat, and sebum—crucial for Singapore's climate. It won't budge during your morning commute, lunch hour, or evening events. Yet it removes easily with regular cleanser, no special remover needed.

4. Romand Pro Cara Mascara - ¥1,210 (~S$11)

Photo credit: @cosme official product image

K-beauty meets J-beauty in this cult-favorite mascara from Korean brand Romand, which has taken Japan by storm. The Pro Cara delivers the impossible: dramatic volume and length without clumping, flaking, or that dreaded "spider leg" effect. It's the mascara that makes people ask, "Are those your real lashes?"

Why it's #4: The secret lies in the innovative brush design—a tapered wand with densely packed short bristles that grab every lash, from tiny inner-corner hairs to long outer lashes. The formula is buildable, meaning you can create natural daytime lashes with one coat or full-on drama with three coats, all without clumping.

Singapore Price Comparison: Romand products at Sephora Singapore cost S$24-28 for mascaras. At ¥1,210 (approximately S$11), you're paying less than half the Singapore retail price. Romand is a Korean brand, but Japan offers better prices and fuller stock than Singapore, making it worth buying during your trip.

Formula Innovation: This is a "tubing" mascara, meaning it wraps each lash in tiny water-resistant tubes rather than coating them with traditional pigment. The result? Zero smudging, zero flaking, and zero raccoon eyes, even in Singapore's humidity. Yet it removes effortlessly with warm water—no harsh rubbing or makeup remover required.

Application Technique: Start at the lash roots and wiggle the wand side to side as you sweep upward—this deposits maximum product at the base for lift and volume. For lower lashes, hold the wand vertically and use the tip to coat each lash individually. Wait 30 seconds between coats to prevent clumping. For extra drama, curl lashes before applying, then apply mascara while lashes are still warm from the curler.

Shade Selection: While black is the classic choice, don't overlook the Brown shade—it's perfect for daytime wear, creating definition without the harshness of black. The burgundy shade is a hidden gem for adding subtle warmth to your look without going full-on colored mascara.

5. Lip Monster Long-Lasting Lip Color - ¥1,540 (~S$14)

Photo credit: @cosme official product image

Lip Monster is the holy grail of long-wearing lip color in Japan, beloved for its ability to survive meals, drinks, and hours of wear without fading, feathering, or drying out your lips. Unlike Western liquid lipsticks that can feel like cement, Lip Monster's unique "moisture veil" technology keeps lips comfortable and hydrated throughout the day.

Why it's #5: This is the lip product Japanese women reach for on busy days when they don't have time for touch-ups. The formula creates a flexible color film that moves with your lips rather than cracking or peeling. It's transfer-resistant (won't stain your coffee cup or mask) but not completely transfer-proof, striking the perfect balance between longevity and comfort.

Singapore Price Comparison: Long-wearing lip colors from brands like Maybelline SuperStay or Revlon ColorStay cost S$18-24 in Singapore. At ¥1,540 (approximately S$14), Lip Monster offers superior comfort and a wider shade range at a competitive price. The formula is gentler on lips than most Western long-wear options, making it ideal for Singapore's air-conditioned environments that can dry out lips.

Shade Guide for Asian Skin Tones: The collection features 14 shades designed specifically for Asian complexions. Shade 01 (Eerie Red) is the signature shade—a true red that flatters all skin tones and works for any occasion. Shade 05 (Dark Fig) is perfect for creating a sophisticated, muted look that's office-appropriate. For a trendy K-beauty inspired look, try Shade 07 (Brick Brown)—it's the perfect MLBB (My Lips But Better) shade for medium to tan skin tones.

Application for Maximum Longevity: Exfoliate lips with a lip scrub or soft toothbrush before applying—smooth lips hold color better. Apply one thin layer and let it dry for 60 seconds (this is crucial). Apply a second thin layer for opacity and longevity. Avoid applying lip balm underneath, as it creates a slippery base that prevents proper adhesion. If lips feel dry, apply balm only to the center of your lips, leaving the edges bare for color to grip.

Removal Tips: While the formula is long-wearing, it removes easily with oil-based makeup remover. Soak a cotton pad with remover, press it against your lips for 10 seconds to break down the color film, then gently wipe away. Follow with lip balm to restore moisture.

6. SUQQU Signature Color Eyes - ¥7,700 (~S$70)

Photo credit: @cosme official product image

SUQQU is the crown jewel of Japanese luxury beauty, and the Signature Color Eyes palette is the brand's most iconic product. This isn't just an eyeshadow palette—it's a masterclass in Japanese color theory, featuring four carefully curated shades that create sophisticated, dimensional eye looks with minimal effort. Each palette is designed to work harmoniously together, eliminating the guesswork from eyeshadow application.

Why it's #6: SUQQU's philosophy is "effortless elegance," and this palette embodies that perfectly. The four-shade layout follows Japanese makeup principles: a base shade to even out the lid, a medium shade for depth, a highlight shade for dimension, and a liner shade for definition. Follow the numbered application order (printed inside the palette), and you'll achieve a polished look in under 5 minutes.

Singapore Price Comparison: SUQQU eyeshadow palettes at Takashimaya Singapore retail for S$98-108. At ¥7,700 (approximately S$70 after tax refund), you're saving S$28-38—enough to buy a matching SUQQU lipstick. SUQQU is a Japanese brand available in Singapore, but buying at source guarantees access to limited edition shades and seasonal collections that never make it to our shores.

Formula Excellence: The powder texture is incredibly silky—it's been milled multiple times to create an ultra-fine consistency that blends effortlessly and doesn't emphasize lid texture. The color payoff is buildable, allowing you to create everything from sheer washes of color for daytime to intense, saturated looks for evening. The formula contains moisturizing ingredients like squalane and hyaluronic acid, preventing the creasing and fading common with other powder shadows.

Best Palettes for Singaporean Skin Tones: Palette 01 (Yuukarin) is the bestselling shade, featuring warm browns and coppers that flatter medium to tan skin tones—it's the perfect everyday palette. Palette 02 (Yougure Orange) offers peachy-orange tones that create a fresh, youthful look ideal for Singapore's tropical climate. For cooler-toned skin, Palette 05 (Akairozora) features rose and mauve shades that add subtle sophistication without looking muddy.

Application Tutorial: SUQQU includes a detailed application guide with each palette, but here's the quick version: Apply Shade 1 (lightest) all over the lid as a base. Apply Shade 2 (medium) to the outer half of the lid and blend into the crease. Apply Shade 3 (shimmer) to the center of the lid and inner corner for brightness. Apply Shade 4 (darkest) along the upper and lower lash lines for definition. The entire process takes 3-5 minutes and creates a polished, professional look.

Investment Value: At S$70, this is the most expensive item on our list, but it's worth every cent. The palette contains 5.6g of product (compared to 3-4g in most Western palettes), and the high pigmentation means you use very little product per application. With daily use, a SUQQU palette lasts 12-18 months, making the cost-per-wear incredibly low. Plus, the sleek black compact with gold SUQQU logo is so beautiful you'll want to display it on your vanity.

Shopping Tips for @cosme in Japan

Best Locations: The @cosme flagship store in Harajuku (Tokyo) is the ultimate beauty destination, spanning three floors with over 10,000 products. The Shinsaibashi store in Osaka is equally impressive and less crowded. Both offer English-speaking staff and tax-free shopping. For a more local experience, visit @cosme stores in department stores like Lumine or Marui—they're smaller but carry the bestsellers.

Tax-Free Shopping: Bring your passport and spend over ¥5,000 (approximately S$45) to qualify for immediate 10% tax refunds. The process is simple: shop normally, bring your items to the tax-free counter, show your passport, and receive an instant refund. The savings add up quickly when buying multiple items.

Timing Your Visit: Weekday mornings (10 AM - 12 PM) are the quietest times to shop. Avoid weekends and holidays when stores are packed with local shoppers. If you're visiting during sale seasons (January and July), arrive right when stores open to snag the best deals before items sell out.

Language Tips: While staff at flagship stores speak English, smaller locations may not. Download the Google Translate app and use the camera function to translate product labels and ingredient lists. Most @cosme products have English descriptions on the back, but having a translation app provides peace of mind.

Shipping Options: Bought too much? @cosme flagship stores offer international shipping via EMS or surface mail. Shipping to Singapore typically costs ¥2,000-3,000 (S$18-27) for a 2kg package and takes 5-7 days. Alternatively, use Japan Post's international shipping service from any post office—rates are competitive and service is reliable.

What Makes These Products Special?

Japanese beauty products excel in three areas: Texture Innovation (Japanese brands invest heavily in creating unique textures that feel luxurious and comfortable), Longevity Without Compromise (long-wearing formulas that don't sacrifice comfort or skin health), and Shade Development (colors specifically designed to flatter Asian skin tones, unlike Western brands that often create shades as afterthoughts).

The @cosme ranking system ensures that only products with genuine consumer approval reach the top. Unlike Western beauty awards that can be influenced by advertising budgets, @cosme rankings are based purely on user reviews and purchases. When a product ranks in the top 10, it means thousands of Japanese consumers have tested it, loved it, and repurchased it—the ultimate seal of approval.

Final Thoughts: Building Your @cosme Shopping List

For first-time visitors with a limited budget, prioritize the Creamy Touch Liner (¥1,100) and Eyebrow Pencil (¥1,100)—these are affordable, universally useful, and offer the biggest savings compared to Singapore prices. If you have more to spend, add the RMK Juicy Melt Lip Gloss (¥3,080) for a touch of luxury that you'll use daily.

For makeup enthusiasts willing to invest, the SUQQU Signature Color Eyes (¥7,700) is worth every yen. It's a palette you'll treasure for years, and the quality is unmatched by anything available in Singapore at this price point. Pair it with the Romand Pro Cara Mascara (¥1,210) for a complete eye look.

For those who want maximum longevity and value, the Lip Monster (¥1,540) is your hero product. It's the one lip color you can apply in the morning and forget about until evening, making it perfect for busy days of sightseeing in Japan or long workdays back in Singapore.

Remember: @cosme products are designed for Asian skin tones and beauty preferences, making them ideal for Singaporean shoppers. The savings compared to Singapore retail prices are substantial, and the quality is exceptional. Whether you're a beauty novice or a makeup pro, these six products will elevate your makeup routine and give you a taste of Japanese beauty excellence.

Happy shopping, and may your @cosme haul be Instagram-worthy! 🛍️✨