Level up your skincare 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 cream and sunscreen that’s kinder to your skin, these are some of the best and most affordable Japanese skincare 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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Who says your skincare routine can’t be fun? This beauty soap comes in a playful dispenser that pops out a beautiful foam rose, petals and all, when you push its button. Sold as an anti-aging product, the soap contains ingredients intended to nourish your skin, such as collagen and hyaluronic acid, which make skin feel softer. Plus, not only does it look like a rose, but it also smells like a freshly picked bouquet, too. ¥1,293
This three-in-one lip ‘fondue’ works as an overnight lip mask, essence and lip balm, replenishing moisture in your lips with the help of royal jelly extract, honey and olive oil. It also comes in a pretty 3D pearl finish, which makes it a great substitute for lip gloss. There’s an entire range of Lip Fondues in different fragrances and colourful tints, so you can easily pick out one that suits your mood best. ¥438
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. ¥1,078
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. ¥1,430
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
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. ¥2,650
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. ¥1,051
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. ¥731
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