Level up your skincare and hair routine with these affordable products from Japan: cleansers, moisturisers, makeup removers and more
In Japan, you’ll find plenty of quality beauty and skincare products that won't break the bank. Even better, most are widely available at any local Japanese drugstore, so you don’t have to hunt through a fancy department store for a product that works. The only hard part about beauty shopping in Japan is figuring out what to buy – products here often have creative names, even for beauty brands, which can be confusing sometimes.
From foamy face wash and makeup remover to moisturising hair treatments and sunscreen that’s kinder to your skin, these are some of the best and most affordable Japanese skincare and hair products you need to try out. The prices we've listed here are from online stores, but most Japanese chemists and drugstores carry them, too – just be aware that prices may vary depending on the shop.
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Ihada is a readily available line of skincare products by Shiseido that you can find at almost every drugstore in Japan. The brand’s intensive nighttime care balm is perfect for dry and sensitive skin, as it has no fragrance and seals in moisture all night without leaving your face feeling sticky or heavy. The pack can be used two to three times a week, but it's gentle enough to use every night if needed. ¥1,980
If you hate doing a multi-step skincare routine, this nourishing gel cream is for you. The product acts as a lotion, body milk, beauty solution, face cream, moisturiser and makeup base all in one. Plus, the light gel won't feel like it’s weighing down your skin. It's also part of the Sana soy milk line – a set of skincare products that use soybeans, which are believed to be beneficial to your skin. ¥1,100
For the odd pimple every now and then, this is what you need. Pair Acne Cream is designed to tackle adult acne and has gone viral on social media for its effective results. Suitable for all skin types, the cream offers anti-inflammatory and antibacterial benefits thanks to the addition of ibuprofen. You can apply it morning and night after cleansing your face. ¥1,045
These disposable beauty face masks come in a handy tissue-like pack which makes them portable and hassle-free, so they’re easy to add to your everyday skincare routine. The brand says the masks are designed to combine face wash, skin care and moisturiser into one easy step, so the best time to use the masks is first thing in the morning. Simply let the mask sit on your face for 60 seconds before using it to wipe off any excess dirt on your skin. ¥1,540
If you want that beautiful, natural-looking pout, this lip essence can be used as a moisturising balm or gloss. Its unique formula not only offers a tingly plumping effect but also helps reduce the appearance of fine lines. So you’ll achieve more youthful, voluptuous-looking lips. ¥1,320
This simple face wash uses the power of baking soda to help melt away blackheads and any dead skin cells clogging your pores. To use, simply squeeze a moderate amount into your hands, foam it up and massage it into your skin. After washing it all off, splash some cold water onto your face to help tighten up your pores. ¥1,100
This multi-purpose oil can be used on your face, body and hair. Made from 100 percent natural oil from tsubaki (camellia) flower seeds, the fragrance-free oil is a great way to add a bit of hydration into your daily skincare routine. Camellia oil is especially beneficial for hair, as it helps moisturise the scalp and bring out your hair's natural lustre. ¥1,210
Japanese peeling gels are all the rage with anyone looking for gentle exfoliation. The Cure Natural Aqua Gel helps exfoliate and remove dirt from the skin without the use of harsh chemicals or any abrasive additives. This cult-favourite includes ingredients such as activated hydrogen water with antioxidant properties, aloe leaf extract for moisture, ginkgo biloba leaf for blemishes, and rosemary leaf extract for its antibacterial properties. ¥2,750
If you are aiming for a face wash that will help unclog your pores, try Suisai’s unique powder washes. The powder face wash comes in tiny little capsules, making it ideal for travelling, and you just need to lather it in your hands with lukewarm water before applying it on your face. It comes in three variants including this gold version, which aids in moisturising skin with the addition of golden sunflower and avocado oils. ¥1,100
The problem with most sunscreens is that they can often feel very heavy and sticky on your skin. Thankfully, the Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence sunscreen does just the opposite. The sunscreen sinks into the skin immediately, leaving no residue or white streaks. The texture is similar to that of a serum rather than a sunscreen and it’s also water resistant for up to 80 minutes – ideal if you’re an outdoorsy type or just stepping out on a sweaty summer day. ¥968
This Japanese hair treatment is another product that's been flying off the shelves, as it's been shown to help repair damaged hair and give your locks that beautiful glossy finish. With ingredients like royal jelly PCA and Lipidure, the mask helps nourish hair that has been damaged by harsh weather, UV rays and treatments like perms and dye. To use, just massage a small amount directly into your hair after shampooing. Leave it in for about five to ten minutes and then rinse it out. ¥968
This additive-free makeup remover is free of artificial fragrances, colours and parabens, making it a perfect choice for those with sensitive skin. It can be used to gently remove lipstick, foundation and stubborn makeup like waterproof mascara without causing any irritation or dryness. The brand also offers a milky version of the makeup remover which is more moisturising and even better for those with naturally dry skin. ¥968
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