Sensai is a Japanese luxury skincare and cosmetics brand owned by the large chemical and cosmetics corporation Kao Corporation, and operated under its subsidiary, Kanebo Cosmetics.

Company Ownership and Structure

Parent Company:
Kao Corporation, a major public Japanese corporation founded in 1887. Kao Corporation has positioned Sensai as one of its six core, global growth brands.

Operating Subsidiary:
Kanebo Cosmetics Ltd., which was founded in 1887 as a cotton trader before expanding into silk and then cosmetics in 1937. Kanebo is responsible for the research, development, and distribution of the Sensai brand.

Global Presence:
Sensai was initially launched in Europe (London) in 1983 and gained significant popularity there before being introduced to Asian markets, including Japan and China, in recent years. The brand is now available in over 40 countries and has a strong focus on global expansion.

Brand Philosophy and Core Ingredient

Sensai’s philosophy is rooted in Japanese aesthetics, the mindful routine of the tea ceremony (called “Saho”), and scientific innovation.

“Saho” Ritual:
The brand advocates a precise, multi-step skincare ritual, including “double cleansing” and “double moisturizing,” to achieve optimal results.

Koishimaru Silk:
The signature and core ingredient across all Sensai products is Koishimaru Silk, a rare and precious fiber once reserved exclusively for the Japanese imperial family.

Researchers at Kanebo discovered that the hands of silk artisans remained remarkably beautiful and youthful.
Scientific research revealed that the silk extract actively promotes the skin’s own synthesis of hyaluronic acid, a powerful moisturizing substance.
This ingredient is key to achieving the brand’s ideal of “Silk Skin”—skin that is deeply hydrated, luminous, and supple.