Best Japanese Skincare Products
Living in Japan last summer taught me such incredible life lessons and was just such an unforgettable experience overall. I mean, the scenery was amazing, the culture was amazing, the food was amazing. Everything was just amazing. Alongside with these amazing things though, was my opportunity to try authentic Japanese skincare. After almost a year since having lived there, I’ve curated a short list of Japanese skincare products that I now swear by!:
Hada Labo Rohto Goku-jun Hyaluronic Serum (new formulation)
Definitely a staple in my spring and summer skincare routine! The Hada Labo Rohto Goku-jun Hyaluronic Serum is an incredibly lightweight product that goes suchhh a long way! It takes a bit more time to absorb into the skin that other serums I’m used to, however, once it absorbs into the skin, it provides a slightly tacky texture to prep for your face cream. Whatever face cream you use on top of this stuff will get amplified fivefold, and your skin will feel soft and supple once everything gets absorbed! For a Japanese product it’s also relatively easy to get in the states, so check out the hyperlink above for the exact formulation I have!
Lululun Face Mask (Pink)
I love these face sheet masks for daily use! Now, let me clarify, I don’t use face masks daily every month. I’ll have one week where I use the Lululun’s for about a week, then I’ll switch back to a night skincare routine without them. However, when I do use these, I love how they do a great job hydrating the skin and allowing whatever serum you put on top of it to absorb faster and more effectively. I picked these up at an @cosme store in Tokyo, however you can still access these fairly easily in the states.
naturie Hatomugi Skin Conditioner
When I lived in Japan last summer, I saw this stuff everywhere. From grocery stores to Don Quijotes to pretty much anywhere that sold face products in general. So obviously, I had to try it, and I gotta say I can see why people love it. Not only is it affordable, but its super versatile too! You can use it as a pre-serum or you can make your own DIY sheet mask with it! There’s also no fragrance in it, so it’s great for sensitive skin!
Honorable Mention: Skinfood Steam Milk Topping Mask
I didn’t include this product on the main list for two reasons: 1. Skinfood is actually a Korean brand despite it being widely popular in Japan and it being a Japan exclusive 2. This stuff is SOOO hard to find! So I purchased several bottles of this in a retail shop in Tokyo, however, when I searched online for, I couldn’t find anyone who sold it. I’m still mentioning it though, because if for some miraculous reason you do find it, please, snag one (or a few!) if you can!!! This topping mask is meant to go on after your night cream and to leave on overnight. In my experience, this mask gave tons of extra hydration to the skin and every morning after my skin would feel super supple and moisturized. It’s become one of those products that I’m not using anymore because I’m on my last bottle and I have no idea where to restock (Haha! We’re all guilty of doing this at least with one product). Again, if you’re able to get your hands on it, don’t miss out on the opportunity!