[2026] A Collection of Iconic J-POP Songs About Makeup [Japanese Music]

Makeup doesn’t suit me.Iwasaki Yoshimi

Makeup doesn't suit me.

This is a song by Yoshimi Iwasaki filled with a warm message that affirms an unpretentious relationship—something you’d never guess from the title.

The song expresses the protagonist’s feelings as they tell their lover, “You’re beautiful just the way you are.” Iwasaki’s clear, translucent vocals blend comfortably with the light, urban sound crafted by Ami Ozaki.

Released in October 1982 as her 11th single, it features sophisticated sound design by leading creators of city pop, a charm that remains undiminished today.

Listening to it while facing your bare self before putting on makeup might help you learn to love yourself as you are.

It also makes a perfect BGM for an unadorned day spent with someone special.

MAKE UP!!Yoyogi Joshi Ongakuin

MAKE UP!! / Yoyogi Girls Music Academy [MV Full ver.]

An irresistibly cute dance number that heightens the feeling of being in love! It’s the eighth single from Yoyogi Joshi Ongakuin, released in March 2023.

The track is also known for being featured as the ending theme of TV Asahi’s “Choco Planner.” It portrays a down-to-earth mindset of working hard on makeup to become your cutest self for the person you like, and the dual theme of not only refining your appearance but also “makeup for the heart” is wonderfully stylish.

The lyrics about keeping your best smile even when your makeup smudges are truly encouraging for listeners.

It’s the perfect song not only for mustering up courage before a confession, but also for boosting your mood during your morning makeup routine.

lipstickSakurada Junko

lipstick

It’s a song that really strikes a chord, capturing the bittersweet resolve of a woman who puts on lipstick to show her most beautiful self at the very moment of parting.

You can almost see the cityscape blurred by rain, as if you’re watching a scene from a movie.

Released in June 1978 as Junko Sakurada’s 23rd single, it’s well known for having lyrics by Takashi Matsumoto and music by Kyohei Tsutsumi.

The song was hugely popular at the time, even making the Top 10 on TBS’s “The Best Ten” for six consecutive weeks.

The upbeat, disco-tinged sound contrasts with the heartrending lyrics, expressing the protagonist’s bravado in a way that really hits home.

It’s the perfect track to listen to while doing your makeup when you want to reset your feelings and move forward.

on the brinkNagae Rina

on the brink

Before the mirror, she applies her rouge as if steeling herself.

This song, which conjures such a tense scene, is included on singer Rina Nagae’s major-label debut single.

You can feel the heroine’s urgent resolve as she faces her “last love” with her back against the wall, carried by a voice that carefully weaves each and every word.

Released in January 2025, the track also drew attention for its unique collaboration with Choshi Electric Railway, which led to the line’s nickname “Inubō Cliff-Edge Line.” When you need to fire yourself up before an important challenge, listening while you do your makeup might give you courage.

It’s a song that turns everyday makeup time into a special ritual.

Royal Straight FlushMinase Iori (Kugimiya Rie)

Royal Straight Flush

Like casting a spell in front of the mirror, I want to make my day the very best.

That wish is sung over a pop sound in a track performed by Iori Minase, a popular character voiced by Rie Kugimiya.

The song playfully captures the thrill of transforming with cosmetics in hand, likening it to the strongest hand in poker—an irresistible touch.

The confident vocals perfectly align with her persona as an elegant, high-born idol.

This piece was included on the CD “PETIT IDOLM@STER Twelve Seasons! Vol.9 Iori Minase & Io,” released in March 2013, and also served as an image song for “Puchimas! -Petit Idolmaster-.” It was performed live in January 2018 as well.

Listen while you do your makeup, and it’ll lift your spirits until you feel, “I’m unstoppable today!” It’s a special pep song for the morning of a special day.

mirrorFRUITS ZIPPER

[MV] FRUITS ZIPPER “Kagami”

An adorable song packed with FRUITS ZIPPER’s charm that turns the time you spend in front of the mirror every morning into a magical moment.

It carries a positive message about looking at yourself through the mirror and becoming a cuter, more radiant you.

Blending enigmatic incantations with a magical-girl aesthetic, it creates a fantastical atmosphere.

Chosen as the web commercial song for Haruyama’s “Homerare Suit,” which has been available since January 2025, it’s drawing attention alongside a video featuring the members.

This release is the first installment of FRUITS ZIPPER’s three-month consecutive release project, with the music video scheduled to premiere on January 31, 2025.

It’s the perfect track for anyone who wants to start their morning routine or a new chapter in life with a positive mindset.

Offering a chance to reflect on yourself amid glamorous production, the song has also become a hot topic on social media.

YOKUBARINishino Kana

YOKUBARI

An upbeat EDM-style track crammed to the brim with makeup terms every girl knows.

People say what’s inside matters more than appearances, but I want it all—makeup, fashion, everything—to become the best version of myself! That honest feeling is portrayed straight and true.