20 Popular Japanese Beauty Products You Must Buy at Drugstores (Updated!)

*Before purchasing or using any of the products below, please carefully review the ingredients and safety precautions on both the product packaging and official website. 

*All prices mentioned in this article include consumption tax.

*This article was sponsored by ROHTO Pharmaceutical.

Sunscreen

1. Skin Aqua Tone-Up UV Essence (5 Colors)

This sunscreen offers sun protection while simultaneously enhancing the skin's natural tone and radiance. You can use it on your body as well as under makeup. There are five colors depending on how you want your skin to look: Lavender makes your skin look flush and bright, Blue neutralizes any redness and creates a naturally clear and fair complexion, Rose adds a pop of color to the skin and reduces dullness, Mint Green reduces redness while keeping acne scars on the downlow, and White - newly introduced for Spring/Summer 2026 - naturally brightens and tones up all skin undertones without leaving a white cast. If you use it before makeup, it'll make your skin look even more radiant. Not only is it really easy to apply thanks to its smooth, watery texture, but it also comes off easily with soap.

2. SKIN AQUA Serum UV

Sunscreen is essential for protecting your skin from the intense summer sun, but don’t you find that a lot of them feel sticky in the hot and humid weather?

Skin Aqua Serum UV is a revolutionary product that redefines traditional sunscreen with its lightweight, non-sticky formula. It absorbs instantly into your skin, and it’s alcohol-free and fragrance-free. Plus, it doesn't sting your eyes, so you can use it on your face without any hesitation! You won't even notice you're wearing it!

With powerful SPF50+ and PA++++ UV protection and a generous concentration of hyaluronic acid, it helps keep your skin moisturized whether you're dealing with air-conditioning-induced dryness in summer or the dry conditions of winter. Skin Aqua Serum UV transforms sunscreen from a tedious extra step into an integral part of your skincare routine!

Brightening Skin Care Products

3. Hada Labo Gokujyun Whitening Perfect Gel

Does layering multiple skincare products to combat dark spots on bright and sunny days leave you feeling frustrated with that sticky, heavy feeling on your skin?

If so, Hada Labo Gokujyun Whitening Perfect Gel is the product for you!

This all-in-one gel combines five functions in a single step: toner, emulsion, serum, cream, and mask. Despite its richness, it melts seamlessly into the skin the moment you apply it.

With a five-additive-free formula made for sensitive skin - including being alcohol-free - it delivers a plump, luminous complexion, much like the feeling you get after a luxurious facial mask treatment.

Generously packed with two active ingredients including tranexamic acid, which suppresses melanin production to help prevent dark spots, along with three types of hyaluronic acid, it deeply replenishes moisture all the way into skin dried out by UV rays, keeping it hydrated for hours.

What used to feel like a chore will become a special, indulgent moment to care for your skin!

4. Hadalabo Shirojyun Series

This comprehensive skincare series combines powerful brightening ingredients to prevent dark spots while treating acne, skin irritation, and dehydration. The formulas help refine skin texture for a brighter, more translucent complexion. All the products in this lineup are thoughtfully formulated without fragrances, artificial colors, alcohol, parabens, or mineral oils, making them gentle enough for sensitive skin. They are also non-comedogenic, meaning they won't clog pores or trigger breakouts. The large pump bottle type is perfect for liberal application not just on your face, but also on the elbows, knees, feet, back, and wherever else on your body.

5. Melano CC+ AZmask

Does your skin struggle with enlarged pores, blackheads, and rough texture caused by sweat and excess sebum? Are you tired of sighing every time you look in the mirror, or exhausted from trying product after product with little results?

Meet your new solution for pore concerns: Melano CC+ AZmask!

This intensive pore-targeting mask features a powerful dual combination of pure vitamin C and pure azelaic acid. Azelaic acid has been generating a lot of buzz lately, as it amplifies the effects of vitamin C while helping to control excess sebum.

The mask is saturated with a generous amount of essence and adheres closely to the skin for maximum absorption. Once you remove the mask and gently wipe it off, you'll be left with smooth, supple skin with visibly minimized pores - all while locking in deep hydration! Your daily pore care will transform into a quick, enjoyable ritual you actually look forward to.

Please note that the yellow color of the sheet comes naturally from vitamin C; no artificial colorants are used.

6. The LYPO Vitamin C Deep Capsules

The LYPO is currently one of Japan's most popular beauty supplements, featuring innovative liposomal vitamin C technology! The formula combines two types of vitamin C with hyaluronic acid. It's perfect for those seeking that coveted glass skin effect through vitamin C supplementation. What makes The LYPO special is its use of liposome technology: the ingredients are put into capsules formulated to be identical to cell membranes, allowing for slow release of active ingredients in the body which ensures longer-lasting effectiveness. Available in two convenient forms: tasteless capsules or refreshing lemon-lime flavored powder that can be taken without water.

Skin Care Products for Pores and Rough Skin

7. Melano CC Deep Clear Enzyme Face Wash

Part of the renowned Melano CC series known for melanin suppression and prevention of acne, dark spots, and freckles, this innovative enzyme cleanser offers advanced pore care. The formula works through a dual-action approach: active enzymes break down protein-based impurities in pores, while purifying clay absorbs and removes any other debris. Pure Vitamin C then conditions and hydrates the skin. Typically, enzyme cleansers come in powder form since enzymes lose effectiveness when exposed to water. However, through proprietary technology, Melano CC has achieved a breakthrough by creating a tube-type face cleanser that maintains active enzyme stability!

8. Mentholatum Acnes 25

Acnes 25 is specially formulated to address stubborn adult acne that's prone to scarring. This powerful formula contains three kinds of active ingredients: anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and tissue-repairing compounds that penetrate deep into the skin to treat acne at its source. It's particularly effective for adult acne that repeatedly appears in the same areas, such as the cheeks, around the mouth, and the chin. The formula becomes transparent upon application, making it perfect for use under makeup. Choose between the Mentholatum Acnes 25 Medical Cream EXa for red, inflamed acne, and Mentholatum Acnes 25 Medical Mist b, which you spray on. The mist type can even be used upside down, so you can also use it to treat back acne.

Mentholatum Acnes 25 Medical Cream EXa

Mentholatum Acnes 25 Medical Mist b

9. softymo Speedy Cleansing Oil

Perfect for those seeking quick and efficient makeup removal. This innovative cleanser can be used with wet hands and requires no follow-up face wash, making it ideal for use even in the shower or bath. The formula combines 5 certified organic botanical oils and 3 botanical seed oils for superior moisturizing benefits. While many cleansing oils can weaken eyelash extension adhesives, this gentle formula is safe for use with lash extensions.

10. Claamee Make Keep Square Pack (50 Pieces)

This morning face mask is ideal for anyone struggling with excess facial oil. It’s so popular that it even went out of stock in Japan at one point! It not only absorbs and controls excess sebum, but also delivers deep hydration with 6 carefully selected moisturizing ingredients. Use it in the morning and it will help shield your skin from daytime stressors and keep your makeup intact, helping maintain smooth, shine-free skin throughout the day.

Moisturizing Skin Care Products

11. CareCera High Moisture Advanced Barrier Emulsion

The CareCera Advance Barrier Emulsion is perfect for those with dry, sensitive skin that feels irritated even after applying toner! While emulsions are typically used after cleansing and toner, this innovative "pre-emulsion" is designed to be applied immediately after cleansing. The formula contains 8 types of natural ceramides to replenish moisture in the skin. Using this emulsion first helps prepare and calm the skin, making subsequent skincare products easier to apply and absorb without irritation.

12. yuskin Aa

Four active ingredients in this cream work together to heal chapped skin, cracked skin, and chilblains, while two moisturizing ingredients provide deep hydration to the skin. The cream's distinctive yellow color comes from vitamin B2, a water-soluble vitamin, and its refreshing scent is derived from the active ingredient dl-camphor. While commonly used for the hands, this versatile cream can be applied anywhere on the body. Massage thoroughly into the skin after washing dishes, bathing, or before bedtime until the texture transforms from creamy to silky smooth.

13. Hada Labo Gokujyun Premium Hyaluronic Acid Lotion

If you hear the words “Japan’s best-selling toner,” no doubt the Hado Labo series will come to mind! This time, we're introducing the premium moisturizing version: Gokujyun Premium.

Do you find yourself struggling with flakiness and dryness, feeling like no matter how much you moisturize, it's never quite enough? If your usual skincare routine just isn't cutting it anymore, it's time to try the Hada Labo Gokujyun Premium Hyaluronic Acid Lotion!

Designed to deliver serum-level hydration, this toner is luxuriously packed with an impressive eight types of hyaluronic acid. While it feels wonderfully thick and rich in your hands, it glides onto the skin with surprising smoothness, absorbing effortlessly for an instantly comfortable feel.

With a five-additive-free formula - including not containing alcohol or oils - to prioritize those with sensitive skin, it gently cocoons even the most delicate skin, locking in moisture throughout the day.

Every time you use it, you'll find yourself looking forward to discovering your healthiest, most supple skin yet!

Hair Care Products

14. Gyutto Corset Hair Mask

Gyutto Corset Hair Mask features proprietary hair repair technology that penetrates deep into the hair shaft for the best hair restoration results. On top of taming frizz and dryness caused by rainy season humidity and summer UV exposure, this product also reduces the dryness and tangles often experienced by those who have colored or permed their hair. It promises silky smooth, easy-to-manage hair, as well as a soothing hair care experience with its calming green tea and yuzu fragrance.

For around 1,500 yen, this hair mask delivers salon-quality results. It became so popular upon release that it quickly sold out, so grab it without hesitation when you spot it in stores! For enhanced hair elasticity and shine, apply heat with a blow dryer after using the hair mask.

15. TSUBAKI Premium Moist & Repair Shampoo

Features a powerful blend of camellia seed oil, squalane, plant-derived cholesterol-like compounds, and ceramide-mimicking ingredients that work together to repair hair both on the surface level and deep within. The formula intelligently targets damaged areas, concentrating its reparative effects on areas that need it the most. It transforms dry, frizzy, and unmanageable hair into smooth, moisturized locks with beautiful shine from the roots to the tips. Enhanced with an enchanting floral camellia fragrance. Complete your care routine with TSUBAKI Premium Moist & Repair Conditioner and Treatment, sold separately.

16. Fino Premium Touch Concentrated Beauty Essence Hair Mask

An intensive repair hair mask that targets even minor damage, creating smooth hair from root to tip. Use after shampooing during your bath routine. The formula combines six powerful ingredients that penetrate deeply to address various hair concerns, including royal jelly for deep moisturization, trehalose and sorbitol for lasting manageability, and glutamic acid to help preserve hair color. The mask's unique damage-seeking technology helps create a perfectly smooth hair surface by filling in rough, uneven areas.

17. Mentholatum Mediquick H Gold

Dealing with an itchy scalp? Eczema and rashes can occur on the scalp or along the hairline, sometimes hidden by hair. Metholatum Mediquick H Gold is specially designed to target these areas. It features a direct nozzle that allows you to apply the product straight to the affected skin - no need to part your hair! Simply press the nozzle against the itchy spot for precise, mess-free application. It imparts a refreshing, cooling sensation that provides instant relief from irritating itchiness.

Eye Care Products

18. Lycée Glow

A revolutionary product specially designed for those who worry about ruining their eye makeup when applying eye drops. The precision nozzle delivers an ultra-small drop, making it perfect for use at your desk without disturbing your eye makeup. The formula includes corneal treatment and metabolism-enhancing ingredients to refresh and relieve tired, dry eyes. Safe for use with both soft and hard contact lenses. The bottle features an attractive pink marble cap design and a slim profile that fits easily in any purse or pocket.

19. V Rohto Premium

Do you ever feel like you've hit your limit after staring at computer and smartphone screens all day long - eyes so tired they can barely stay open, or a heavy, dull ache deep behind them?

V Rohto Premium is here to rescue the eyes of hardworking people everywhere! These premium eye drops are packed with a remarkable 12 active ingredients - the most of any eye drop product available in Japan.

From ingredients that support focusing function to those that promote cell turnover, the formula takes a multi-faceted approach to tackling the root causes of serious eye strain. On top of that, cornea-protecting ingredients help lock in moisture, gently wrapping your overworked eyes in soothing relief. The refreshing, invigorating sensation the moment you apply them is the ultimate pick-me-up for a long, busy day.

And as a bonus, they can be used while wearing hard contact lenses!

20. KOSE Cosmeport Clear Turn Sorry Bare Skin Repair Eye Cream

An intensive eye cream formulated to address dark circles, fine lines caused by dryness, and dullness around the eye area. This rich cream provides comprehensive care for various eye area concerns. Versatile enough to use at night, before makeup, or even over makeup during the day when you need extra hydration. Contains light-reflecting pearls that naturally brighten the eye area, creating a plump, luminous effect around the eyes and tear trough area.

Did any products catch your interest? Since all these items are reasonably priced, why not try them during your stay in Japan and stock up on the ones you love! They also make perfect gifts - your friends and family are sure to be delighted with them.