Discover COSMETEC JAPAN: Unmatched ODM/OEM Support for Health and Beauty Entrepreneurs

COSMETEC JAPAN stands out as a pioneering ODM/OEM company, offering comprehensive 360-degree support for aspiring health and beauty entrepreneurs. Our services span across planning, development, manufacturing, sales, and regulatory compliance, ensuring a seamless entry into the market. To better understand our competitive edge, it is essential to delve into the roots of our parent company, Momotani Juntenkan, a legacy that has evolved over centuries and continues to shape our identity.

While our founding date is noted as 1885, our origins trace back to the Edo period, approximately 400 years ago, during the era of the Tokugawa shogunate in Japan. This historical backdrop showcases our longstanding commitment to quality. For about three centuries, we served the Tokugawa family as trusted pharmacists. Fast forward to the Meiji era, a transformative time marked by the revival of the imperial system under Emperor Meiji, reshaping Japan’s governance and society. Born in 1863, our founder, Masajiro Momotani, embraced this period of change and opportunity, entering the elite “Mouzan School” at just 15 years old. This institution, supported by renowned diplomat Mutsu Munemitsu, was pivotal in nurturing future leaders.

In 1879, Masajiro continued his education at ‘Haruta Juku’ in Osaka, immersing himself in classical Confucianism, and then at ‘Hakuen Shoin’, the top private school in the region. His academic journey culminated in 1880 when he enrolled at the Wakayama Prefectural Pharmaceutical School, where he studied various branches of chemistry and pharmacology. By 1881, his dedication paid off as he became the first licensed pharmacist in Wakayama Prefecture, a milestone that laid the foundation for our future innovations in the beauty industry.

Under the mentorship of Dr. Ikujiro Sakurai, a distinguished professor at Tokyo Imperial University, Masajiro honed his expertise in drug discovery and pharmaceuticals. In 1885, he launched “BIGANSUI Acne Lotion,” a groundbreaking product based on salicylic acid, designed initially for his wife. The name “BIGANSUI” reflects its purpose—combining the characters for beauty, face, and water to signify easy application and effective results. It later gained recognition as the first lotion in Japan certified as a chemical heritage, marking a significant achievement in our company’s history.

The remarkable transformation in his wife’s skin after using “BIGANSUI” sparked widespread interest among locals, leading to its popularity spreading throughout Japan and beyond. This success marked the inception of Momotani Juntenkan’s journey as a cosmetics manufacturer. The term “Junten” in our name embodies a unique philosophy: to align with the universe’s will while serving humanity. Additionally, it symbolizes June 10, 1885, our company’s anniversary, reflecting the founder’s intent to carry this philosophy into the future.

Masajiro’s innovative use of English—a rarity a century ago—demonstrates his forward-thinking vision and dedication to the company’s ethos. Over the years, we have expanded our product offerings significantly, establishing a research institute in 1913 dedicated to pioneering cosmetic development. This initiative positioned us ahead of industry trends, particularly in Western medicine research. A highlight of our history occurred when Masajiro’s son, Kanjiro Momotani, received accolades from the emperor as a chief researcher at Tokyo Imperial University, further solidifying our reputation.

In 1927, Kanjiro was honored with the Legion of Honour by the French government for his contributions to cultural exchange between Japan and France. The following year, Masajiro received commendations from Emperor Showa for his societal contributions. By 1932, our company welcomed Masayoshi Ohira, who would later become Prime Minister, and continued to innovate with products like “MEISHOKU Cleansing Cream” and “MEISHOKU Color Astringent,” which became some of Japan’s best-selling cosmetics.

The year 1993 marked a pivotal transition as we restructured into three distinct companies: “Momotani Juntenkan,” focusing on group management strategies; “Meishoku Cosmetic,” targeting trend-responsive products for the general market; and “Cosmetec Japan,” specializing in the OEM/ODM sector. Presently, our core mission revolves around providing exceptional support to the health and beauty industry, distinguishing ourselves as a forward-thinking OEM company.

Our approach to cosmetics transcends traditional OEM business models, encompassing branding, naming, and innovative sales strategies. We pride ourselves on offering comprehensive support, akin to a consulting firm dedicated to fostering business growth. Our diverse clientele spans various sectors; however, we avoid partnerships with companies solely focused on cost-cutting, as our aim is to deliver high-quality products infused with added value. At COSMETEC JAPAN, our guiding principle is “ZERO to ONE,” signifying our commitment to creating novel market opportunities and unique value propositions.

Research and development, the cornerstone of our organization, is meticulously divided into five specialized departments. The first is our “R&D department,” dedicated to formulating innovative products while ensuring safety and stability. Next, the “Frontier Research Laboratories” focus on efficacy testing and exploring new domains. Our “Global R&D laboratory” analyzes international trends and regulatory standards, recognizing the necessity for adaptability in a constantly evolving market. The Manufacturing Technology laboratory is tasked with scaling production processes of laboratory formulas while providing technical support for manufacturing challenges. Lastly, the Next Research and Innovation Labo emphasizes collaborative development with universities and partner firms, streamlining our R&D efforts by addressing specific challenges within each division.

Recognizing the rapid growth of the dermatology sector, we established a dedicated clinic to address the intersection of cosmetics and healthcare. With an increasing number of products bridging these fields, we are committed to providing extensive support in both beauty and health arenas.

Eco-Friendly Practices: Our Commitment to Reducing Environmental Impact and Achieving Carbon Neutrality

Situated in Okayama Prefecture, a region rich in natural resources, our manufacturing facility is dedicated to environmentally responsible practices. We actively engage in the 3R initiatives—reduce, reuse, and recycle—to minimize our ecological footprint. Our factory has achieved zero emissions concerning industrial waste, and we collaborate with partner companies to recycle materials, compost, and cultivate plants on-site. Notably, 50% of our plant’s energy is sourced from non-fossil fuel electricity, a significant milestone in our quest for zero emissions, integrating solar and wind power to protect our planet.

In 2020, we launched a line of eco-friendly skincare products designed specifically for Muslim women, achieving halal certification. This initiative not only appeals to environmentally conscious consumers in Southeast Asia but also aligns with our mission of promoting sustainable beauty. Our Happiness Beaute skincare series embodies the principle of “SUSTAINABLE BEAUTY for me, for all,” aiming to enhance skin health while safeguarding the global environment.

Furthermore, we champion gender equality, with women occupying 43% of management roles. This statistic starkly contrasts the 11% average across Japanese companies as of 2019, showcasing our commitment to advancing female leadership within our organization.

Diverse Product Range: Meeting the Unique Needs of Different Skin Types

In response to varying skincare needs, we have developed a diverse array of over 60,000 formulations, continually innovating to serve our customers better. With more than 100 active clients, each managing an extensive range of products—exceeding 400 annually—we are also venturing into the health food market, which presents exciting opportunities for growth.

Our reach spans 24 countries, each with distinct skin type variations. Collaborating closely with our clients, we ensure that we meet their specific requirements by providing prototype formulations that we refine based on feedback. Our flexibility allows us to cater to a wide spectrum of client needs.

Our commitment extends beyond product prescriptions; we offer end-to-end support, encompassing formula design, branding, naming, and marketing strategies. This comprehensive approach has garnered us high praise from our global clientele. Our dedication to quality and service was recognized when we received the “Alibaba Supplier Award Winner” accolade from Alibaba, and we were featured in Forbes Asia magazine. Just before the pandemic in early 2020, we were set to showcase our unique offerings under the theme “J-Beauty,” highlighting products that incorporate traditional Japanese beauty ingredients and cutting-edge technology. Additionally, our makeup products received acclaim from a renowned makeup artist during Paris Fashion Week 2020-2021, further elevating our international profile.

Innovative Research: Pioneering Unique Materials for the Cosmetics Industry

Our research institute, established in 1913, is Japan’s oldest dedicated to cosmetics, enabling us to develop a variety of innovative products, including warming gels, carbonated packs, and thixotropic gels. Currently, one of our focus areas is fungal research, examining the significant impact of various bacteria on skin health and aging.

We have conducted extensive studies on the bacteria residing on human skin, recognizing the importance of managing these microorganisms. Our patented “Flora Controller FC161” is designed to enhance beneficial skin bacteria while reducing harmful varieties, promoting healthier skin as we age. While we strive to promote this revolutionary ingredient, we face challenges due to outdated cosmetic regulations in Japan.

Interestingly, this ingredient can also be utilized in textiles, leading to the creation of “Moist Fiber.” In response to the COVID pandemic, we developed a mask made from “Moist Fiber” to combat skin roughness associated with prolonged mask-wearing. This innovation enhances the presence of skin-beneficial bacteria, ensuring that skin remains moisturized and healthy. The positive reception of this product highlights its potential, with possibilities for broader applications on the horizon.

Strategic Partnerships: The Cornerstone of Our Business Model

We view all aspects of our business as collaborative efforts. Our relationships with clients are built on mutual goals, working together to develop tailored solutions that address their unique needs. This partnership-centric approach is fundamental to our success.

Exploring Overseas Production: Our Focus on Domestic Quality

Currently, we do not pursue overseas production, as our commitment remains to Japanese manufacturing. Although we serve many international clients—accounting for 20-30% of our sales—our clients appreciate the premium quality associated with Japanese products. While our production costs may be higher, our dedication to quality ensures ongoing demand from our clientele. We remain open to collaborations that foster innovation, particularly in technology, and actively seek partnerships with like-minded organizations.

Assessing the Japanese Chemical Industry: Strengths and Challenges in Cosmetics

The skincare market in Japan exhibits a remarkable focus on quality, with a composition ratio of 53%, significantly higher than the global average of 36% and the U.S. rate of 30%. This heightened interest demonstrates that Japanese women prioritize skincare, leading to a demand for high-quality products. Companies like ours must consistently meet these expectations to thrive in this competitive landscape.

While the domestic market is limited and challenges arise in competing on price with local competitors, our clients recognize the value of quality, allowing us to maintain a strong business relationship despite higher costs. This commitment to excellence is what sets us apart in the cosmetics industry.

Navigating Post-Pandemic Opportunities: Our Strategic Vision for Market Growth

Despite the global challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, we are witnessing a steady recovery, projecting sales growth of 110% in 2021, with an additional 5% increase anticipated this year. As a company focused on creating rather than merely controlling markets, we prioritize developing new opportunities through collaborative partnerships.

While the Japanese market faces constraints due to an aging population, we see potential in emerging sectors, notably men’s cosmetics. The increasing engagement of Gen Z men with skincare and cosmetic products presents a promising frontier for growth. Additionally, the surge of information sharing on social media among younger generations is reshaping consumer behavior, creating new market dynamics.

Moreover, the challenges associated with wearing surgical masks during the pandemic have heightened demand for skincare solutions that address skin irritation. As consumers place more emphasis on their eyes and hair care, we recognize the opportunity to innovate and meet these evolving needs. The cosmetics industry is rife with potential, and our focus remains on identifying trends and swiftly adapting to them.

Vision for the Future: COSMETEC JAPAN’s Goals and Aspirations

Our primary commitment extends beyond mere sales; we aspire to bring happiness to our customers. Our mission is to ensure that our products and services leave customers satisfied and fulfilled. We aim to attract talented individuals who share this vision and are passionate about making a positive impact.

As I approach my 60th birthday, I reflect on our achievements and recognize the importance of succession planning. Ensuring the company’s continued success and creating a legacy for future generations is a priority for me.