Translation guide
The professional study and application of beauty treatments, including skincare, makeup, and hair care. In Japanese, this field is often referred to by specific terms depending on the context, such as beauty school, cosmetics science, or aesthetic medicine.
Referring to the study or profession of beauty treatments in a broad sense, such as in education or career contexts.
The most common term for beauty or cosmetology in a general sense. It covers skincare, makeup, hair, and overall beauty enhancement. Often used in compound words like 美容師 (beautician) or 美容院 (beauty salon).
彼女は美容の専門学校に通っています。
She attends a vocational school for cosmetology.
Literally 'beauty techniques', this term emphasizes the practical skills and artistry of cosmetology. It can sound slightly more formal or technical.
美容術を学ぶために留学しました。
I studied abroad to learn cosmetology.
A direct loanword from English, used mainly in academic or international contexts. Not widely recognized in everyday Japanese.
コスメトロジーの学位を取得しました。
I earned a degree in cosmetology.
Referring to the scientific study of cosmetics, their ingredients, and development.
Literally 'cosmetics science', this is the precise term for the scientific discipline behind cosmetic products.
化粧品科学を専攻しています。
I'm majoring in cosmetic science.
Loanword used in some academic programs or industry contexts.
コスメティックサイエンスの研究をしています。
I'm doing research in cosmetic science.
Referring to clinical or medical beauty treatments, such as laser therapy, injectables, or dermatological aesthetics.
Means 'aesthetic medicine' or 'cosmetic medicine'. Covers procedures performed by doctors, such as Botox, fillers, and laser treatments.
美容医療のクリニックで働いています。
I work at an aesthetic medicine clinic.
Short for 'medical esthetic', this refers to beauty treatments performed under medical supervision, often in a spa-like setting.
メディカルエステで肌の治療を受けました。
I received skin treatment at a medical esthetic salon.
美容 (biyou) is the broadest term for beauty and cosmetology. 美容術 (biyoujutsu) emphasizes the techniques and artistry, often used in vocational contexts. 美容医療 (biyou iryou) specifically refers to medical or clinical aesthetic treatments.
The English word 'cosmetology' is not commonly used in Japanese. Instead, use context-specific terms like 美容 (general beauty), 化粧品科学 (cosmetic science), or 美容医療 (aesthetic medicine). The loanword コスメトロジー is rarely understood.