Japan Ingredient Glossary

Japan Ingredient Glossary

English-language reference database of cosmetics, food, and supplement ingredients used in Japanese products. Every entry includes the Japanese name, INCI name where applicable, typical uses, and regulatory status.

This glossary uses general ingredient names (INCI or chemical names). Where relevant, we note which companies market specific preparations under registered trademarks.

Currently covering 102 ingredients (growing).

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Pick the lens that matches your sourcing question. OEM manufacturers most often start from product type, target function, or required regulatory framework.

By product application

Facial skincare, hair care, supplements, beverages, seasonings, and more.

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By function

Brightening, anti-aging, antioxidant, gut health, hair growth, and more.

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By regulatory framework

Quasi-drug actives, FFC-eligible, Tokuho, Kampo, food additive.

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By origin

Plant, marine, fermented, microbial, animal, mineral, synthetic.

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Browse by source category

Cosmetics71 entries

INCI-recognized cosmetic ingredients widely used in Japanese personal care, including plant extracts, fermented derivatives, and tree-derived components.

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Food17 entries

Ingredients used in Japanese food and beverage applications, including traditional foodstuffs, teas, and umami sources.

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Supplements8 entries

Functional ingredients used in Japanese supplements and functional foods notified under Japan's Foods with Function Claims system.

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Traditional6 entries

Ingredients associated with Japan's traditional production methods or heritage categories, including Kampo-adjacent botanicals.

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Recently published

The latest ingredient profiles added to the glossary.

See A–Z index

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