Over 100 Years Behind Our Brand
1919
The Start of Our Legacy
Our founder, Kunishiro Kawabata, began working in Japan’s cosmetics industry over a century ago. We started in the Japanese beauty market with talcum powders and cosmetic creams and have continued improving our formulas ever since.
1921
Expanding Internationally
Just two years later, we were ready to enter international trade and began shipping products to customers worldwide.
1934-1945
KITAO + Overseas
A decade after opening our doors, we officially established Kitao Cosmetics Co. and opened our first cosmetics factory overseas. However, World War II devastated many businesses, and KITAO was no exception.
1950
Hero Brand “Robin”
After losing everything, including our overseas factories, we had to start from scratch. We then created a new brand, “Robin,” under the Kitao Cosmetics name. Robin was a trendy, fashion-forward brand, and KITAO also began manufacturing products for other companies through OEM partnerships to support their growth.
1960
Launching ‘Swan’
We pioneered the distribution of beauty products through supermarkets and beauty salons, including the high-end Saint Laurent brand, alongside our own Swan Skincare brand. We successfully exported Swan Skincare to the Middle East, where it became so popular that it was frequently imitated.
1988
Award-Winning
In the 1980s, we appointed Kiyoshi Kawabata, our former CEO, to lead the Kitao team. For more than three decades, he helped propel the company forward in the cosmetics industry. As he said, “We never stop pursuing innovation and strive to create new products.”
2019
100th Anniversary
We celebrated our 100th anniversary in the best way we know—by bringing more products we love to the customers who have supported us throughout our journey. In 2019, we launched KITAO MATCHA at Ulta Beauty and expanded the Kitao family even further.
A Message from Our CEO
At Kitao Cosmetics Co., Ltd., we have proudly dedicated ourselves to the cosmetics industry for over 100 years, beginning in 1919. From our roots in developing, manufacturing, and selling our own branded products, we expanded into OEM partnerships and the import and export of high-quality cosmetics.
Creating Kitao Matcha has been a journey of passion and purpose. For years, our team worked to blend American enthusiasm for matcha with the time-honoured traditions of J-Beauty. After years of development and experimentation, we launched Kitao Matcha in the U.S. in celebration of our 100th anniversary—a milestone that marked not only a new product but also a new chapter in our legacy.
At Kitao, we are committed to innovation and creativity, constantly pursuing new ways to enhance our products and make a meaningful impact. We promise to continue delivering our best for customers and contributing positively to society.
Damage-Free. Every Time.
Our patented peel-off formula lets you change your manicure without harsh removal. When you are ready, the gel peels away cleanly to help keep natural nails looking healthy.