For the J-beauty fans out there, Toronto has a few Japanese beauty stores that showcase some of the most sought-after skincare, cosmetics and haircare on offer in Japan thanks to their innovative formulations that are tried-and-true effective. With an approach to beauty that prioritizes simplicity, hydration, and gentle care, Japanese brands have the rare gift of appealing to every skin type — and the stores came at a time when the melting pot nature of the city’s population could benefit from some authentic product lines.
Japanese beauty lovers can be found all over, at MUJI in several areas from Dundas Square to Yorkdale Shopping Centre. MUJI is more so a minimalist lifestyle purveyor but it does have some essential skincare offerings such as cleansing oil, toner and moisturizer. For a more budget-friendly moisturizer that focuses on hydration, their 200ml Sensitive Skin Moisturizing Milk ($~16) is one of the most popular products.
Miniso has multiple locations in Toronto, and they offer inexpensive Japanese-esque beauty products. They feature sheet masks, cushion foundations and thin serums for below $10. While technically not Japan-owned, Miniso does have many beauty products that use Japanese formulations and are marketed to the focused consumer on a budget looking for affordable beauty.
At T&T Supermarket, there's a whole line of Japanese beauty products, including top-rated Hada Labo and Shiseido. The cult-favorite Gokujyun Hydrating Lotion by Hada Labo is highly moisturizing (due to its hyaluronic acid content), and costs almost $20. One of the reasons shoppers love T&T is its wide selection and convenient locations across Toronto.
What is it that specialty stores offer to elevate the J-beauty experience, in Toronto? Closer to home, mini stores such as SUKIYA Japan Store in Kensington Market for imported Japanese beauty luxury cosmetics, skin care and hair care. They often carry high-end fragrances, cosmetics and skincare not found in larger retail chains — treasure troves for J-beauty aficionados. DHC’s Deep Cleansing Oil is a highly-rated product for removing makeup and nourishing the skin found within the store's hand-picked collection.
As for the Japanese drugstore chains like Matsumoto Kiyoshi that have yet to hatch in Toronto, they can barely fill their absence online. Online platforms such as japanese beauty store toronto provide true Japanese goods right to the customer, ensuring convenience in addition to a large selection of products. Take Oceanbuy, for example:over 500 J-beauty products, from Kanebo’s skincare range to Kate Tokyo’s cosmetics. Even if you don’t live in Tokyo (or Paris), Toronto residents can now have a taste of the latest Japanese trends without boarding an airplane.
This reminds me of a quote by Haruki Murakami: Where you stand depends on where you see and hear which makes sense in regards to J-beauty being appreciated more in Toronto. This quality is not just reflected in the products themselves, but also in the true Japanese philosophy of skincare which makes it easy for consumers to associate beauty with healthy skin first within these stores.
For a one-stop shop of sorts, you can check out japanese beauty store toronto for all things Japanese.
