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A Guide to the Best Japanese Skincare Products to Get in Japan

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Are you visiting Japan and looking to stock up on some of the best Japanese beauty products? 

As someone who recently discovered the amazing value and quality of Japanese skincare and makeup, I have done a lot of research on the must-have Japanese beauty products to shop for in Japan for my November Japan trip.

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 In this guide, I’ll share my recommendations on the absolute best skincare, makeup, haircare, suncare, body care, and more that Japan has to offer. I’ll share what I purchased and how I like the products in a later review.

Whether you’re looking for advanced anti-aging skincare, hydrating toners, and lotions, high-protection sunscreens, long-lasting makeup, luxurious cleansers and oils, or deeply nourishing hair products, Japan has it all. I’ve rounded up all of my tried-and-true favorites across categories to help you shop like a pro on your upcoming trip.

Few things to note: The products I’ve purchased myself to try are in italic so you know.

Here’s what we’ll cover in this comprehensive guide:

All the best Japanese skin care brands and best beauty products from japan 

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Summary of the Best Japanese Skincare and Beauty Brands

Japan is renowned globally for their advanced and innovative skincare and cosmetic formulations. When shopping for Japanese beauty products in Japan, keep an eye out for these popular and highly-effective skincare, suncare, makeup and haircare brands. The cult favorite Japanese skin care products and Japanese makeup are Italisized:

  • Hada Labo: Iconic for their deeply hydrating hyaluronic acid toners and lotions
  • SK-II: Pioneer of essence products and anti-aging skincare powered by Pitera
  • Shiseido: Prestigious skincare, suncare and color cosmetics brand known for luxury formulas
  • POLPA: Specialist in highly-concentrated, active ingredient-based skincare
  • Kanebo: Leader in cosmetic technology with ranges for all ages and concerns
  • DHC: Expert in gentle, olive oil-based cleansers and moisturizers
  • Rohto Mentholatum: Affordable skincare brand best known for their lip treatments
  • Kose: Leader in cleansing oils and home to the cult favorite Sekkisei line
  • Biore: King of sun protection with their advanced UV filters and lightweight formulas
  • Naturie: Specializes in simple, fermented skincare products for sensitive skin
  • Cezanne: Affordable skin conditioners containing ceramides and hyaluronic acid
  • Suqqu: Iconic prestige makeup brand offering exquisite textures and colors
  • Canmake: Trend-driven color cosmetics with teen appeal and high performance
  • Excel: Wide range of eyebrow and lash products loved by makeup artists
  • Kpalette: Innovators of 24-hour lasting eyeliners and brow products

Related: What To Buy In Japan: Best Things To Buy

Keep an eye out for these brands and products as you shop for the best skincare, makeup and haircare that Japan has to offer.

More Japan Articles

japan Travel Planning Articles:

A Guide to the Best Japanese Skincare Products to Get in Japan

Tips for Shopping for best Japanese Beauty Products in Japan

Shopping for beauty products in Japan can be thrilling, but also overwhelming with the enormous selection available. Here are my top tips for making the most of your Japanese beauty shopping experience:

Bring an empty suitcase. Japanese beauty products tend to come in larger sizes, sets, and value packs. Make sure you have extra room in your luggage! I recommend bringing a duffle bag with wheels that can be folded/rolled into another luggage.

Make a shopping list. It’s easy to get carried away, so keep yourself focused. List down specific products or brands you want to look for.

Download a translator app. While many Japanese brands offer English labeling, it’s still useful to have a quick translation tool on hand. These are other handy apps I recommend for Japan

Look up Japan-exclusive releases. Many Japanese beauty brands release special formulas or packaging only for their domestic market. Do your research beforehand!

Ask for samples. The Japanese culture of outstanding customer service means you can often get free samples when purchasing products.

Compare prices. Pricing can vary greatly between drugstores, department stores and online shops. Make sure you’re getting the best deals.

Shop early. Popular items sell out fast, so don’t leave your shopping to the last minute. The best products may be gone!

Consider duty-free. If you’re flying out of major airports like Narita or Haneda, their duty-free shops offer great beauty deals.

Check online stores. Websites like Dokodemo and Amazon Japan allow you to shop Japanese exclusives from overseas.

With the right prep and some savvy shopping skills, you’ll be able to stock up on all the Japanese beauty goodies your heart desires!

best beauty products in Japan

Now that you know which brands to look out for and how to shop smart, let’s get into the products!

I’ll be sharing all of my holy grail Japanese skincare items across every category – cleansers, toners, serums, moisturizers, masks, eye creams and more. Get your shopping list ready!

Best Japanese Face Products: best beauty products in japan

Starting off your routine with the right cleanser makes all the difference for healthy, glowing skin. Here are the best Japanese cleansers worth loading up on:

Cleansers – best beauty products in japan

Kose Softymo Speedy Cleansing Oil

  • Deeply dissolves makeup, sunscreen and impurities without irritation
  • Rinses clean without leaving behind a greasy residue
  • Affordable price point makes it easy to stock up
  • Comes in a generously sized 230ml pump bottle

Tip: Purchase in the larger refill packs. It’s easier to stow in your luggage and you get more for the money. Just fill it in a container when you get home.

makeup to buy in japan

DHC Deep Cleansing Oil

  • Cult classic cleanser gentle enough for sensitive skin
  • Olive oil base nourishes skin as it lifts away makeup and dirt
  • Effortlessly emulsifies with water and transforms to a lightweight milk
  • Sold in a large 200ml bottle featuring a handy pump dispenser

Shiseido Perfect Cleansing Oil

  • Luxurious silky oil formula packed with botanical oils
  • Transforms into a creamy emulsion for a luxe cleansing experience
  • Removes waterproof makeup and mascara with ease
  • 180ml bottle featuring a convenient push-top dispenser

Hada Labo Gokujyun Hyaluronic Acid Cleansing Foam

  • Rich hydrating foam ideal for dry, dehydrated complexions
  • Contains skin-plumping hyaluronic acid and soothing botanicals
  • Cleanses thoroughly without stripping or drying the skin
  • Comes in a huge 200ml pump bottle that lasts for months

Suqqu Eye & Lip Makeup Remover

  • Prestige electric blue liquid gently whisks away even waterproof makeup
  • Specially tailored to dissolve long-wearing eye and lip cosmetics without irritation
  • Skin feels clean yet comfortable, never dry or tight
  • Chic minimalist bottle looks beautiful on your vanity

With formulas ranging from affordable drugstore gems to high end luxury buys, you’re guaranteed to find your perfect Japanese cleanser match. Time to dethrone your current Western cleanser!

Best Japanese skincare: Toners, Lotions and Mists

One of the key secrets of Korean and Japanese beauty routines is always following cleanser with a hydrating, pH-balancing toner or lotion. They provide an essential base layer of moisture and prep skin for optimal absorption of subsequent skincare products.

Best Japanese Beauty Products

During your Japan trip, be sure to stock up on these refreshing, essence-like toners and lotions. The Items that I purchased and will later review is italized.

Hada Labo Gokujyun Premium Hyaluronic Acid Lotion

  • Mega-hydrating toner contains 5 sizes of hyaluronic acid
  • Significantly plumps fine lines and gives skin a dewy glow
  • Lightweight formula quickly absorbs without stickiness
  • Available in generously sized 170ml and 520ml bottles

Tip: You can purchase it in these larger refill packets instead of the bottle. I find it to be easier to pack and you get more product!

makeup to buy in japan

BIORÉ®  Watery Essensnce UVA UVB SPF 50 Lotion

  • Spf 50
  • Very light weight and doesn’t make your skin feel greasy or oily
  • very affordable
  • dries quickly and is hydrating

Tip: They have a large line of the same product but in different formulas. I purchased all of them as I REALLY love the quality of them. The Aqua rich in the white bottle and upright bottle is more for winter when your skin is dryer. The other is great for summer

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Kikumasamune High Moist Lotion

  • Watery pink toner meets anti-aging serum
  • Fermented sake-based formula repairs skin while locking in moisture
  • Layer for extreme hydration without heaviness or greasiness
  • Comes in a jumbo 500ml bottle – extreme value for money!

Cezanne Skin Conditioner High Moist

  • Alcohol-free skin softening toner
  • Boosts ceramides and hydration to reinforce skin’s moisture barrier
  • Calms irritation and sensitivity due to simple, minimal ingredients
  • Affordably priced even for the huge 500ml volume

Minon Amino Moist Moist Charge Lotion

  • Lightweight amino acid-enriched watery lotion
  • Pump bottle dispenses a weightless, refreshing liquid
  • Hydrates while keeping oiliness at bay, great for combination skin
  • Available in 30ml trial sizes all the way up to a 440ml bottle

Shiseido Treatment Softener

  • Luxurious silky infusing lotion with a refined hanbang scent
  • Effectively preps and softens skin to maximize absorption of skincare routines
  • Anti-aging formula improves texture, dryness and dullness over time
  • Chic minimalist bottle looks pretty situated on your shelf

Serums and Ampoules

While nourishing toners set the base, specialized treatment serums and ampoules target specific skin concerns like aging, acne, spots and dullness. They deliver highly concentrated doses of active ingredients directly where your skin needs them most.

I always make space in my suitcase for these hardworking Japanese beauty treatment serums:

SK-II Facial Treatment Essence

  • The iconic skin transformer clarifies, hydrates and adds glow
  • Uses 90%+ Pitera – a bioactive yeast derived from sake
  • Proven to improve multiple signs of aging with continued use
  • Available in limited edition holiday sets in Japan

Melano CC Intensive Anti-Spot Essence

  • Cult favorite vitamin C essence fades acne scars and sun spots
  • Packed with highly stable L-ascorbic acid plus soothing botanicals
  • Continued use prevents future pigmentation from forming
  • Affordable 20ml tubes are easy to haul home in numbers

Tip: this is a cult favorite and now I understand why. It’s gentle on sensitive skin and works well to fade acne spots and age spots. I have been using it daily for two weeks and my skin already feels more even and my acne spots are fading.

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Senka White Beauty Serum

  • Hardworking corrector serum for uneven skintone and sallowness
  • Potent infusion of arbutin, vitamin C and tranexamic acid
  • Lightweight watery texture blends easily into skin without stickiness
  • Typically sold in sets with toner, lotion and night gelly for extra value

_ POLPA Potight Firming Serum_

  • Luxury tightening serum instantly lifts and sculpts slackened skin
  • Powerhouse natural ingredients include edelweiss extract and collagen
  • Rich formula suits drier, mature complexions
  • Sleek silver and black bottle adds a fancy touch to your lineup

Sofina Ip Base Care Serum

  • a highly concentrated mouse that is moisturizing
  • formulated with a special patent micro bubble foam formula
  • clinically proven to penetrate deep into the skin layers

Tip: I tried this in the store and I had to get it! The texture is so unique and it left my skin baby soft almost immediately after. So now I alternate using this and the other serums.

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Kanebo Bioactive Repair Serum

  • Multitasking serum addresses loss of firmness, resilience and moisture
  • Advanced bioactive epidermal growth factors and soy peptides
  • Clinical levels of Madecassoside soothe sensitivity and irritation
  • High tech angular frosted glass bottle reflects prestigious brand image

With transformative formulas straight from Japan’s leading laboratories, you can target nearly any skin concern imaginable. Mix and match to build your perfect serum routine!

Best Japanese skincare Brand Moisturizers

In Japanese beauty routines, toners and treatments provide hydration while moisturizers focus more on nourishment, protection and anti-aging benefits.

I always dedicate suitcase space to these ultra-rich Japanese moisturizers:

Biore sun protection

Nivea Sun Protect Plus UV Milky Gel SPF50+ PA++++

  • Lightweight SPF moisturizer provides powerful UVA/UVB protection
  • Watery gel texture quickly absorbs without greasiness or white cast
  • Boosts moisture all day to prevent dryness and flaking
  • Large 80ml pump bottle offers great value for money

BIORÉ®  Watery Essensnce UVA UVB SPF 50 Lotion

  • Spf 50
  • Very light weight and doesn’t make your skin feel greasy or oily
  • very affordable
  • dries quickly and is hydrating
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Shiseido Benefiance NutriPerfect Night Cream

  • Luxe nourishing night treatment focuses on anti-aging
  • ABA and vitamin E support natural collagen and elastin production
  • Intensely hydrated, smooth skin by morning
  • High end lacquered jar looks so chic on your nightstand

Kanebo Freeplus Smooth Care Cream

  • Daily facial cream for very dry, sensitive complexions
  • With ceramides, squalane and shea butter to reinforce moisture barrier
  • Fragrance free formula calms easily irritated or allergy-prone skin
  • Simple squeezable tube is mess-free and travel safe

Curél Intensive Moisture Facial Cream

  • Rich daily moisturizer provides soothing all-day relief
  • Includes pseudoceramides, ceramides and squalane to hydrate intensively
  • Fragrance, colorant and mineral oil free for sensitive skin
  • Basic but functional squeeze tube dispenses just the right amount

Rohto Mentholatum Melty Cream Lip

  • Must-try ultra-hydrating lip balm with SPF25 protection
  • Uses exclusive Moist Bank technology for long lasting moisture
  • Soft shimmery tint options include juicy berry shades
  • Adorable pastel packaging makes this a perfect Japan souvenir

With cushy textures ranging from gels to butters to oils, you’ll enjoy smoothing on these nourishing, protective creams.

Masks

Masks make skincare so much more fun! Japanese sheet masks, rinse off packs and sleeping masks deliver supercharged results. Must-buy favorites include:

SK-II Facial Treatment Mask

  • Luxe bio-cellulose sheet mask soaked in Pitera goodness
  • Dramatically improves radiance, spotting and texture
  • Easy 15-20 self spa ritual leaves skin remarkably transformed
  • Sheet material gently adheres like a second skin

Hada Labo Shirojyun Brightening Mask

  • Rich Japanese-style rinse off facial pack
  • Transforms lackluster skin with vitamin C antioxidants
  • Contains skin-brightening ingredients like arbutin and tranexamic acid
  • Budget-friendly squeeze tube packaging is convenient for travel

Lululun Precious Red Face Masks

  • Japan’s best-selling mask for dry and dull skin
  • Infused with hydrating hyaluronic acid, honey and royal jelly extracts
  • Comes in value sets of 32 daily sheet masks – extremely cost effective!
  • Seven different variants to target multiple skin concerns

No. 7 For Men Revival Mask

  • Biocellulose mask specially designed for men’s thicker skin
  • Contains charcoal powder to deeply cleanse and purify
  • Plumps and restores for well-rested, crisp skin
  • Handy 5-pack set great for travel or gym bags

Innisfree Cica Sleeping Mask

  • Soothing leave-on rescue mask repairs sensitive or irritated skin while you sleep
  • Formulated with centella asiatica andMadecassoside to calm inflammation
  • Protects and hydrates skin to promote healing
  • Sold in sets with cica balm and serum

Masking is serious business in Japan. With so many technically advanced formulas and formulations to choose from, be sure to grab a variety!

Eye Creams

The delicate eye area deserves special TLC. Give your eyes the nourishment they crave with these ultra-rich Japanese eye creams. Say goodbye to fine lines and say hello to youthful, lifted skin!

Shiseido Benefiance NutriPerfect Eye Serum

  • Silky serum treatment targets wrinkles and loss of firmness
  • With Carnosine DP for antioxidant protection
  • Reduces under eye circles and puffiness
  • Sleek pump bottle provides precise dosage

Pola Wrinkle Shot Medical Serum

  • Hardworking anti-aging eye serum noticeably firms and plumps
  • Key ingredients include collagen, hyaluronic acid and EGF
  • Addresses multiple signs of aging from wrinkles to dullness to dryness
  • Clinical white and gold tube reflects prestigious lab brand origins

DHC Concentrated Eye Cream

  • Retinol and peptides help minimize crow’s feet and under eye wrinkles
  • Olive oil formula hydrates without heaviness
  • Also available in a stick for easy application
  • Chic simple packaging reflects brand’s apothecary roots

Lip Treatments

Just like the eyes, lips require targeted solutions that provide moisturizing and repair for delicate lip skin. You can never have too many of these rejuvenating Japanese lip treatments!

DHC Lip Cream

  • Intensive nourishing balm heals chronically dry, chapped lips
  • With smoothing botanical oils and antioxidants
  • Non-sticky gel-cream formula
  • Comes in a twist up lipstick-style tube for easy application

Nivea Fruity Lip Care

  • Juicy tinted lip balms with SPF20 protection
  • Infused with hydrating hyaluronic acid and fruit extracts like peach, cherry and grape
  • Beautiful translucent coat of color
  • Sold in value packs in Japan

Kanebo Freeplus Lip Treatment

  • Fragrance-free lip balm for sensitive skin
  • With skin conditioners ceramide NP and sphingolipids
  • Reinforces lipid barrier function to prevent dryness and irritation
  • Plain squeeze tube reflects simple effective formula

Tools and Accessories

Don’t miss out on Japan’s innovative beauty tools

Here are some must-have Japanese beauty tools and accessories:

Shiseido Facial Cotton

  • Ultra-soft 100% cotton pads for gentle cleansing and exfoliating
  • Durable yet silky texture prevents tugging or irritation
  • Sold in bags of 165 pads – extremely cost effective!
  • Makes an affordable yet indulgent self-care gift back home

Muji Clear Skincare Case

  • Sleek minimalist travel case by Muji lifestyle brand
  • Holds multiple skincare products neatly organized with movable dividers
  • Clear acrylic lets you easily view contents
  • Water-resistant design

ReFa Clear Bottle

  • Sleek mirrored stainless steel electronic bottle
  • Dispenses foaming cleansers and serums with a cool push button operation
  • Auto-cleaning UV sterilization function
  • Refill packs available

Yojiya Eyebrow Coat

  • Colorless eyebrow gel shapes and tames unruly brows
  • Strong hold yet completely clear, waterproof finish
  • Layer under brow pencils and powders to boost longevity
  • Comes with a mascara wand applicator for easy use

Shiseido & Shuumera Eyelash Curler

  • Creates perfectly lifted, fanned out lashes
  • Designed to fit Asian eye shapes with curved comb for hard-to-reach corners
  • Gentle on eyelids without pinching or crimping
  • Sold individually or in holiday sets

With handy beauty tools you won’t find back home, Japan truly elevates the everyday routine. Add to cart!

Now that you know the absolute best skincare buys across every category, let’s move onto brilliant Japanese makeup products, haircare, suncare, body care and more must-have goodies!

The Best Makeup Products to Buy in Japan

Beyond skincare, Japan churns out ultra long-lasting, vivid makeup beloved by makeup artists and beauty lovers globally.

I always squeeze in space for these beauty makeup products whenever I visit Japan:

Japanese Foundation Makeup

For flawless smooth base makeup that stays put all day, turn to these Japanese makeup icons:

Tir Tir Cushion Foundation Make up

  • transfer proof 
  • currently viral and all over IG and Tik tok
  • Full coverage foundation 
  • spft 40-50
  • matches light to medium skin tone well
  • feels soft and dewy on all skin types

Tip: Comes in only 3 shades. Sand is what I chose. They have other formulas and sizes like this handy mini size perfect for your purse.

You can purchase it here on Amazon : Tir Air Cushion Foundation.

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Shiseido Synchro Skin Self Refreshing Foundation SPF30 PA++

  • Medium coverage foundation with a silky, dewy finish
  • Creates an airbrushed yet natural look
  • Sweat and transfer resistant formula
  • Available in 30 shades to match a wide range of skintones

Canmake Marshmallow Finish Powder

  • Fluffy superfine powder leaves skin smoothly matte, not flat
  • Sets makeup for extreme long wear while controlling shine
  • Sheer finish never looks cakey or thick
  • Compact packaging – great for on the go touch ups!

RMK Liquid Foundation

  • Light-as-air serum foundation imparts a lit-from within radiance
  • Buildable sheer to medium coverage
  • With long-lasting polymers derived from flower essences
  • Chic minimalist gold-accented bottle so luxe to display

Suqqu Frame Fix Liquid Foundation SPF30 PA++

  • High coverage foundation offering both perfecting and skincare benefits
  • Mineral-based formula helps correct irregular skin texture
  • Buffs and blends out seamlessly with included kabuki brush
  • Sleek futuristic lacquered bottle screams luxury prestige makeup

Excel Double Lasting Pressed Powder

  • Color correcting yellow-based powder for setting and finishing
  • Controls oil and shine for an immaculate, just applied makeup look that lasts
  • Blurs the look of pores without enhancing texture or dryness
  • Functional plastic compact and sponge applicator – also sold in cute collaboration editions!

With cutting edge ingredient technology and formulations, these bases truly enable you to “look good, move more, worry less”.

Japanaese Beauty Cosmetics

For eye, lip and cheek color that transcends trends, turn to Japan’s cosmetic powerhouses:

Suqqu Liquid Eyeliner Pen

  • Inky smudge and budge-proof liquid liner
  • Superfine tapered felt tip creates precise liner looks from kitten flicks to graphic shapes
  • Microshimmer finish adds subtle luminosity that photographs beautifully
  • Chic lacquered case and rose gold accents reflect brand prestige

Canmake Cream Cheek Blush

  • Lightweight gel-cream cheek color blends out into a natural, healthy blush look
  • Buildable formula from sheer to bold payoff
  • Available in 20 shades from soft pinks to vibrant corals
  • Adorable round compact fits nicely in your makeup bag or clutch

Kate Super Sharp Liner

  • Carbon black liquid liner powered by diamond powder
  • Allows you to create crisp wings and precise lines in just one stroke
  • Smudge and transfer proof once dried down
  • Sleek lacquer click pen packaging at drugstore price point!

Kpalette 1 Day Tattoo Real Lasting Eyebrow Tint Gel

  • Long lasting tinted brow gel produces natural, fluffy looking brows
  • Sweat proof waterproof formula provides extreme staying power
  • Six shades from ash tones to warm caramels flatter most hair colors
  • Functional squeeze tube packaging – also sold in sets!

For eye, lip and cheek color that outlasts even the longest days, choose Japan!

The Best Haircare Products to Buy in Japan

Japan boasts some of the healthiest, shiniest and most manageable hair in the world. Bring those hair goals home through these nourishing Japanese haircare buys. Say sayonara to bad hair days!

Ichikami Smooth & Sleek Argan Oil Shampoo/Conditioner

  • Nourishing and protecting shampoo and conditioner duo
  • Key ingredients like argan oil, honey and rice bran oil deeply hydrate hair
  • Leaves strands soft, smooth and frizz-free
  • Also available in versions for damaged and colored hair

Sebastian Professional Penetraitt Shampoo/Treatment

  • Salon beloved shampoo and conditioning mask
  • Penetrates deep to repair dryness and damage from coloring
  • Transforms overworked tresses leaving them touchably soft and strong
  • Set includes travel sizes – perfect for carry-on!

Kanebo Blanchir Superior Hair Water Treatment

  • Daily leave-in hair treatment for damage prevention
  • Pro-Vitamin B5 strengthens hair and prevents split ends and breakage
  • Light serum texture won’t weigh fine hair down
  • Functional plastic bottle for mess-free application

Shiseido Super Mild Hair Wash Peeling Pack

  • Unique pre-shampoo scalp exfoliating treatment
  • Gently lifts away pore-clogging sebum and product buildup
  • Leaves hair and scalp squeaky clean and primed
  • Refreshing cooling mint scent

For simple yet highly effective hair rescue minus the harsh detergents, lather up with Japan’s repairing formulas. Say goodbye to straw-like hair!

The Best Body Care Products to Buy in Japan

Extend your Japanese beauty immersion down to your body care. With uniquely lightweight textures and gorgeous scents, you’ll look and feel amazing from head to toe!

Body Cleansers

Indulge in an ultra-luxe showering experience with these body cleansers:

Shiseido Benefiance Bath & Shower Gel

  • Luxurious sulphate-free shower gel bursting with moisture
  • Rice force complex leaves skin exceptionally soft, smooth and firm
  • Light hanbang ginseng scent calms the senses
  • Pretty pastel bottle instantly elevates your existing shower gel lineup

Curél Moisture Body Shampoo

  • Sulphate-free creamy body wash for very dry skin
  • Boosts ceramide levels to repair skin’s protective barrier
  • Leaves skin soft and comfortable after cleansing
  • Clean, fuss-free bottle well suited for both showering and bathtub soaking

DHC Face Wash Powder

  • Unique powder-to-foam body and facial cleanser
  • Olive oil base gently yet effectively cleanses without stripping
  • Leaves just a touch of natural, healthy radiance
  • Compact tube handily tucks into gym bags and airplane carryons

Body Moisturizers

Lock in soft, supple skin with these iconic Japanese body lotions and milks:

Curél Intensive Moisture Body Milk

  • Light yet intensely hydrating body moisturizer
  • Boosts ceramide production and retention in the skin by 230%!
  • Proven to provide all-day moisturization even for severely dry skin
  • Large 400ml pump bottle offers great value for money

Nivea Sun Protect Plus UV Milky Gel SPF50+ PA++++

  • Lightweight body milk provides powerful sun protection
  • Sweat and water resistant dry touch formula
  • Prevents dark spots, freckles and tanning
  • White bottle aesthetically pleasing in your beach bag!

Kose’s High Moist Lotion

  • Watery body lotion bursting with skin conditioners
  • Iconic Japanese lotion texture quickly absorbs without greasiness
  • Leaves skin touchably plump and smooth
  • Jumbo 450ml bottle offers extreme value

Pamper your body with an extra level of moisture care just like the Japanese do. Daily body lotion application truly makes a difference!

Hand Creams

Replenish moisture to overwashed hands and repair previously neglected skin on your palms, wrists, elbows and knees with these indulgent Japanese hand creams. Consider picking one up for every bag!

Yojiya Hand Cream

  • Repairs dry cracked hands while providing aromatherapeutic benefits
  • Over 20 unique scent variants like ginseng milk, rose water and precious jasmine
  • Whips to a silky moisture veil without greasiness
  • Chic minimal squeeze tube packaging in pastel colors

Curél Hand Cream

  • Fragrance free hand cream for sensitive skin
  • Ceramide formula intensively restores damaged skin barrier
  • Provides all-day relief from irritation and flaking
  • Basic but functional pump bottle in 3 sizes

Saborino Morning Mask Hand Cream

  • Unique hand cream packaged like a single sheet mask
  • Biodegradable soak-in formula treats hands to an instant boost of moisture
  • Features skin-conditioning royal jelly extract and job’s tears
  • Portable packets perfect for travel or on the go touch ups

For petite-sized care that transforms even the roughest, driest hands overnight, treat yourself to Japan’s hand creams. They truly work hand magic!

The Best Suncare Products to Buy in Japan

Of course, no Japanese skincare routine is complete without diligent daily sun protection. With cutting edge formulas utilizing the most advanced UV filters on the planet, you’d be crazy not miss out on Japan’s suncare innovations:

Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen Skincare Milk SPF50+ PA++++

  • Silky smooth white sunscreen milk with skin benefits
  • Boosts moisture retention while defending against UV damage
  • Water/sweat/sebum resistant lasting protection
  • Gorgeously gold accented sleek royal blue bottle

Allie Extra UV Gel N SPF50+ PA++++

  • Weightless clear gel sunscreen with a powdery aftertouch
  • Features exclusive technology to prevent white cast on darker skin tones
  • Filters both UVA and UVB rays for broad spectrum protection
  • Instagrammable pastel pink and white bottle – also available in limited edition Disney princess collabs!

Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence SPF50+ PA++++

  • Bestselling watery sunscreen quickly absorbs without stickiness
  • Featherlight formula wears beautifully under makeup
  • Leaves a silky smooth base for foundation
  • Functional travel-friendly squeeze bottle with hygienic nozzle tip

Nivea Sun Protect Water Gel SPF50 PA+++A

  • Refreshing sunscreen gel that feels like splashing skin with water
  • Ultra lightweight, fast absorbing texture great for outdoor activity
  • Sweat and water resistant for up to 80 minutes
  • Classic Nivea royal blue packaging now with convenient pump

Regular daily UV protection is non-negotiable for youthful, healthy skin in Japan. Treat your future self by loading up on plenty of PA++++ Japanese sunscreen now!

Other Must-Have Japanese Beauty Products

Beyond skincare and makeup, Japan offers unique beauty inventions you won’t find anywhere else. Pop these in your basket for a fun surprise!

Kao Megurhythm Steam Eye Mask

  • Novel heated eye mask that delivers a soothing steam facial
  • Plumps and hydrates delicate under eye area
  • Reduces fatigue and energizes the eyes
  • Single use packet ideal for travel

Kanebo Kate Lash Maximizer

  • Multi-action lash enhancer serum to achieve your dream lashes
  • Stimulates growth with horse placenta botanical stem cells
  • Protects with Damage Care factor to prevent fall out
  • Clinical white bottle gives a prestige lab feel

Dhc Lip Cream Makeup Remover

  • Unique solid lipstick balm effortlessly whisks away lip tints
  • With antioxidant olive oil, meadowfoam oil and vitamin E
  • Transforms from solid to silky oil upon application
  • Chic slim twist-up lipstick style packaging

Kiss Me Heroine Mascara Remover

  • Dissolves even the most stubborn waterproof mascaras
  • Features ceramide and hyaluronic acid for conditioning
  • Won’t irritate eyes or sting sensitive skin
  • Has a handy wand applicator for precision

Think outside the box and embrace Japan’s unique ideas. You’re guaranteed to discover new unexpected favorites!

Recommended Places to Shop for Japanese Beauty Products in Japan

Now for the fun part – where to actually shop! I’ll be sharing my favorite places to shop for Japanese beauty products while visiting Japan.

Drugstores

For one stop shop access to all the hits across skincare, haircare, body care and everyday makeup, head to Japan’s famous drugstores like Matsumoto Kiyoshi, Tomod’s, Welcia and CosmeKit.

Some locations even have tax-free floors catering to tourists! Stock up on daily essentials and souvenirs here.

Must-Buy

  • Biore sunscreens
  • Hada Labo lotions
  • Kose cleansing oils
  • Saborino masks
  • Nivea sun gel
  • Ichikami shampoos
  • Melano CC serum
  • Kate eyeliners

Department Stores

For luxe beauty buys, visit the basement floors of elegant Japanese department stores like Isetan, Takashimaya, Mitsukoshi and Tokyu Hands.

Discover niche brands and limited edition exclusives you won’t find anywhere else!

Department stores also house beauty boutiques for luxury international brands like Sisley, Cle de Peau and La Mer. Take advantage of attentive sales service and generous sampling.

Must-Buy

  • Shiseido Benefiance
  • Pola Wrinkle Shot
  • SKII Facial Treatment Mask
  • Shu Uemura cleansing oil
  • Suqqu cosmetics
  • Clé de Peau foundation

Drugstore Chains

For beauty deals, LOFT and Plaza style stores like Matsumoto Kiyoshi, Tomod’s and CosmeKit carry value sets at discounted prices along special sale floors.

Smart shoppers can easily score major savings on hit products bundled together. Holiday limited edition seasonal makeup offerings are also abundant.

Must-Buy

  • Melano CC serum sets
  • Hada Labo lotion sets
  • Biore UV perfect sunscreen packs
  • Kate mascara festival kits
  • Shiseido foundation and powder duos

Duty Free Stores

Travel sized sets and value gift packs are plentiful at airport drugstores and duty free shops like DFS.

Keep an eye out for Japan exclusive releases only available at travel retail. Stock up before flying home!

Must-Buy

  • Shiseido serum program sets
  • SKII Traveling Repair Kit
  • Pola trial kits
  • Jurlique Rose Hand Cream trios
  • Japanese whisky

Online Stores

Websites like Dokodemo, Amazon YesStyle, Jpmbeauty, Japan Trend Shop and Amazon Japan ship authentic Japanese beauty products worldwide.

Ideal for future replenishing of favorites or products not sold overseas.

Must-Buy

  • Cezanne skin conditioner
  • Naturie hatoumugi toner
  • Kikumasamune emulsion
  • Fancl cleansing oil
  • Pure Smile sheet masks

From drugstores to department stores, airport shops to online stores – shop for Japanese beauty treasures wherever your Japan travels take you!

In summary

I hope this guide has helped map out the ultimate Japanese beauty shopping guide for your November 2023 Japan trip!

To quickly recap, the best japanese beauty products to buy include:

Skincare

  • SKII Pitera Treatment Essence
  • Hada Labo Hyaluronic Acid Lotions
  • Melano CC Vitamin C Essence
  • Lululun Sheet Masks

Color Cosmetics

  • Excel Lasting Pressed Powder
  • Canmake Cheek and Eye Blushes
  • Heroine Make Mascaras
  • Kate Designing Eyebrow Palettes

Haircare

  • Ichikami Argan Oil Shampoo & Conditioner
  • Shiseido Super Mild Shampoo
  • Kanebo Blanchir Hair Water

Body Care

  • Curél Moisture Body Shampoo
  • Nivea UV Body Milk Gel
  • Yojiya Hand Creams

Suncare

  • Skin Aqua UV Super Moisture Milk
  • Nivea Sun Protect Water Gel

Make space in your luggage and budget for must-have Japanese beauty products like:

Tools

  • Shiseido Facial Cotton
  • Yojiya Clear Brow Coat
  • ReFa Sonic Cleansing Brush
  • Shiseido Eyelash Curler

Other Beauty Innovations

  • Kao Steam Eye Mask
  • Kanebo Lash Serum
  • Kiss Me Heroine Mascara Remover
  • Yojiya Cooling Mist Spray

Shop all the hits from cleansing oils and cushy moisturizers to long-lasting makeup and effective hair treatments. Treasure the superior textures, effects, packaging and pricing only found in Japan.

Refer to this guide for my top recommended cult favorite Japanese beauty buys worth grabbing on your trip this November 2023! Let me know if you have any other questions.

Ultimate japan travel planning Guide

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Kyoto City Guide

Takayama City Guide

Kanazawa City Guide

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