At Rei Cosmetics, we’ve been talking about Monozukuri since the very beginning, because it’s one of the biggest reasons why Japanese cosmetics are both superior in quality and surprisingly affordable.
Monozukuri comes from two Japanese words: mono (things) and zukuri (to make). But it’s much more than just “making things.” It’s a philosophy rooted in craftsmanship, care, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. This dedication to detail is woven into Japanese culture and manufacturing across industries, and cosmetics are no exception.
On a recent trip to Japan, we had the rare opportunity to visit some of the makers behind our favorite products. We filmed their process, listened to their stories, and saw firsthand how Monozukuri shapes beauty. One product we were especially excited to learn about was 3650 (San Roku Go Zero) liquid eyeliners.
We captured this journey of craftsmanship in a short video, now up on our YouTube channel. If you’re curious about the why behind the products you use, we invite you to watch and experience the heart of Monozukuri.
The Brush: Nara’s Temomi Tradition
We began by meeting the brush maker, an artisan who uses a traditional hand-rolling technique called temomi to combine different types of brush hairs. Unlike machine-made brushes, temomi ensures precision, softness, and durability - qualities rooted in the centuries-old brush-making traditions of Nara. He also shared his personal journey of why he chose this craft, continuing a lineage of artistry that gives every eyeliner its flawless finish.
The Formula: Skincare Meets Makeup
Next, we spoke with the product designer and manufacturer behind 3650’s liquid formula. Beyond delivering a sharp, long-lasting line, this eyeliner is infused with four skin-loving ingredients that nourish eyelashes and care for the delicate skin around the eyes. It’s makeup that doesn’t just look good; it feels good too.
The Design: Beauty in Function
Even the product design embodies Monozukuri. The eyeliner’s octagonal body was carefully chosen for a stable grip, and its balanced weight helps guide the hand. For someone like me, who’s usually clumsy with a liquid liner, this thoughtful design makes the perfect cat eye actually achievable.
At Rei Cosmetics, we believe beauty is more meaningful when you understand its roots. This is just the beginning. We look forward to sharing more stories of craftsmanship with you in the future.