Your Guide to Japanese Skin Care, and The Best Affordable Products You Can’t Miss!
If you have been on the hunt for that flawless, radiant glow, chances are you have stumbled upon the wonders of Japanese skin care.
A phenomenon that has taken the beauty world by storm, Japanese skin care is all about simplicity, quality, and achieving that perfect balance.
It is not just a trend, but an age-old tradition that has been passed down through generations. A holistic approach that considers skin care as an integral part of overall health and wellbeing.
Beyond the aesthetically pleasing minimalist packaging and the wholesome ingredients, what sets Japanese skincare apart is its philosophy.
And guess what? I am going to share with you some of the BEST Japanese skincare products that are so inexpensive that they won’t break the bank. Are you ready?
But first, let’s take a moment to understand this philosophy that’s at the heart of it all.
The Philosophy Behind Japanese Skincare
The philosophy behind Japanese skin care is as profound as it is simple. It is rooted in two fundamental principles : ‘Less is more’ and ‘Prevention is better than the cure’ (Korean skin care also follows these principles).
Instead of a reactive approach that addresses skin issues as they arise, Japanese skin care emphasizes a proactive approach that focuses on maintaining the health and beauty of the skin.
This philosophy reflects in the ingredients used in Japanese skincare brands. They are often natural, derived from plants, fruits, or seaweed, and are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and other beneficial compounds.
The use of such natural ingredients not only nourishes the skin, does the job gently and safely, but also helps to protect it from environmental stressors and skin reactions.
What is a Japanese Skincare Routine ?
A skin care routine is usually applied twice a day : One after you wake up in the morning, and one before bedtime (or after your last shower of the day).
Japanese skin care routine may seem time-consuming at first glance. But, don’t be daunted by the number of steps involved. Once you are used to the steps, the whole routine generally takes only 5-7 minutes total.
Each step serves a specific purpose and contributes to the overall health and beauty of your skin.
The routine typically starts with a facial wash, followed by a toner (also called lotion) to hydrate the skin. The next steps involve applying an eye cream (optional), then a moisturizer, and then finish with a sunscreen.
Explaining Japanese Skincare Routine Step-by-Step
The skincare routine that is often practiced in Japan place a significant emphasis on the importance of layering skincare products in a strategic manner, in order to achieve optimal result. This unique method involves the careful application of various skincare products in a very specific sequence.
Let’s unravel the steps involved in the Japanese skincare routine, which is as much a ritual as it is a routine.
So, what does each step in a Japanese skin care routine do? How does it help your skin?
Step 1 : Clean Your Face
This step helps loosen up and remove dirt, dead skin cells, and impurities accumulated on your face, keeping your skin clean and breathable.
It also helps prevent blemishes, and help skincare products absorb into your skin much better.
What to Do : Start by wetting your face with some water. Now, apply a cleanser (foam, cream, or gel form) on it. Rub it in circles, like you’re giving your face a mini massage.
Then rinse it off, and bam, you’ve got a clean face!
Step 2 : Apply Toner (also called Lotion)
After face is clean, the process begins with the application of the lightest products, such as toners (or lotion).
These products are typically water-based and are designed to remove the remaining impurities on your skin, and prepare the skin for the subsequent products by balancing the skin’s pH and hydrating the skin.
They are applied first because their lightweight nature allows them to be quickly and easily absorbed by the skin.
What to Do : Pour a bit of toner (lotion) on a cotton pad or on your hand. Apply it everywhere on your face gently.
Step 3 : Use Eye Cream around Eye Area (Optional)
For those in their early 20s : This eye care step is optional.
If your age is 30 or higher : Now is the time to invest in some eye cream!
The skin around your eyes is incredibly delicate and often shows the first signs of aging. Therefore, it’s essential to keep this area well-nourished and protected.
An eye cream can provide the hydration and nourishment this sensitive area needs, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and keeping your skin looking youthful and vibrant.
What to Do : Put a small amount of eye cream on your pinky or ring finger. Gently tap it on the area around your eyes. Make sure to cover the entire area, until the cream fully absorbs into the skin.
Step 4 : Moisturize Like You Mean It!
Following the application of the lighter products, heavier products like moisturizer creams or oils are applied.
These products are typically more dense, and are designed to provide a more intense level of hydration and nourishment to the skin.
They are applied last because their heavier nature allows them to seal in the benefits of earlier products, ensuring that each product is fully absorbed and can effectively work its magic on your skin.
What to Do : Take a pea-sized amount, rub it between your fingers, and spread it on your face.
Or you could dab a small amount of the moisturizer on multiple area of your face (avoid the eye area), then use your fingers to spread them around your entire face.
Think of it as giving your skin a cozy, comfy blanket – because happy skin is hydrated skin!
Step 5 : Shield Your Face with Sunscreen (Daytime only)
This step is only required in the morning, before you leave the house for school or work. This way, when you are out and about, sunscreen will protect your (face) skin from the sun’s harmful rays.
At night time, when you are home for the rest of the day or about to go to bed, you can skip this step.
What to Do : Start by dabbing small amount of sunscreen on your face, and use your fingers to spread it to the rest of your face.
Give it about 20 minutes to absorb and fully protect your skin before going out into the sun.
And there you have it! Now you are ready to look at some skincare products which are suitable for your skin needs, and apply them into your daily skin care routine.
Helpful Tips and More
- It is always best to build a simple daily routine for yourself. As you get more comfortable with the routine, you can add more products to target specific skin concerns.
- Consider incorporating a serum that specifically addresses your unique skin issues. Whether you’re dealing with redness, dryness, or acne, there’s a product out there designed to target your specific concerns.
- A serum, if you choose to add it to your routine, is to be applied after Step 3 (eye cream) above, and before Step 4 (moisturizer).
- You could also include a weekly exfoliation or face masks (usually goes in between Step 1 & Step 2 above). It could be a hydrating mask for those times when your skin is feeling particularly dry and in need of some deep hydration. If your skin is feeling dull, an exfoliating mask could be just what you need to remove dead skin cells and reveal a brighter, more radiant complexion.
- If you skin leans toward the more sensitive and reactive side, don’t do too many things too quickly to it. Stick to a basic and simple routine, as in the process outlined above. Less is always more!
- In addition to the importance of layering products, it’s also crucial to remember that consistency is a key factor in a skin care routine. It’s not uncommon for it to take a few weeks before you start seeing noticeable results from your skincare routine. However, it’s important to remain patient and consistent.
The long-term benefits of maintaining a consistent skincare routine, such as improved skin health and appearance, are well worth the wait.
Where to Buy Japanese Skincare Products
Now that you have a fair idea of the Japanese skincare routine, you are probably quite excited and burning with one question : “Now where do I get some Japanese skincare products?”
The answer is : “EVERYWHERE.” That, my friend, is the beauty of Japan. The availability, convenience, and accessibility of things.
Japanese skincare products are renowned for their quality and effectiveness, and are thus sought after by consumers worldwide. Finding these products is easier than ever.
- If you are currently visiting Japan or about to go on a trip : You can easily get your hands on so many good and affordable skincare products of various brands by visiting any drugstore, discount retail store, department store, large electronic store (which has its own floor for skin care and cosmetics), specialty skincare shops, and even convenience store across Japan.
- For those who are not living in Japan and want to get Japanese skincare products : You can buy them online from various platforms that offer international shipping.
- Some of the best Japanese skin care brands also have their own websites, in your own country and language, where you can easily and conveniently shop their products, and not have to pay for international shipping. Unbeatable!
- Physical beauty and cosmetics stores, and even Japanese supermarkets and grocery stores located in a multitude of different countries across the globe, are known to stock skincare products that originate from Japan.
6 Amazing and Affordable Japanese Skincare Products You Must Try
Now that you have a fair idea of the Japanese skincare routine, let’s move on to the exciting part : The 6 Japanese skincare products you can’t miss if you are interested in trying some effective and the best-bang-for-your-buck Japanese skincare products.
These fits in different steps of your Japanese skincare routine. (Convenient, right? You can just incorporate them straight into your routine)
Each product has different functions (Pick those that are suitable for your skin care needs!), and above all, blow the Western product alternatives out of the water.
1 . DHC Deep Cleansing Oil
This is hands-down DHC’s best-selling product and a holy-grail original Japanese oil cleanser that has its very own cult following in and outside of Japan.
A must-try for its ability to effectively and gently remove sebum, impurities, and makeup (even waterproof mascara, you bet!).
What sets it apart is that it accomplishes this without stripping the skin of its natural oils, maintaining the skin’s natural moisture balance.
Made with 100% organic virgin olive oil, and is fragrance-free and colorant-free, this oil cleanser cleans the skin gently, leaves no oil residue after, while softening and protecting the skin, making this a dream-come-true for those with sensitive skin or using make-up frequently.
How Much Does It Cost? 800 yen (about $5.43 USD)
Where Does This Fit into My Daily Skincare Routine ? This is Step 1 (see guide above)
Want More Info?
DHC has their own websites in multiple languages for many different countries in the world, such as the United States, Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, many in Europe, and more. Check out your own country’s DHC store website here, and explore their range of products offered in your country, and more.
2 . Shiseido Senka Perfect Whip Cleansing Foam
This affordable cleanser creates a rich lather that penetrates deep into the pores and effectively clean the skin of oil, dirt and impurities.
It manages to do this without causing dryness, maintaining the skin’s natural hydration levels while removing dirt and impurities.
Even people with dry sensitive skin loves this cleanser, and stock up on it when in Japan.
This cleanser is quite popular, and can be purchased everywhere, including online platforms as well as in Japanese convenience stores, drugstores, department stores, and so on, across Japan.
How Much Does It Cost? 600 yen (around $4.07 USD)
Where Does This Fit into My Daily Skincare Routine ? This is Step 1 (see guide above)
3 . Hada Labo Gokujyun Hyaluronic Acid Lotion
This hydrating lotion (or toner) is known as the “simple yet perfect lotion”, and garnered a cult-like following due to its exceptional ability to deeply moisturize the skin.
It achieves this through the use of 4 distinct types of hyaluronic acid, each contributing to the overall hydration and plumpness of the skin and improvement of skin barrier functions.
This lotion is clear, has a very light and watery texture, going on the skin smoothly and easily, and has no smell or fragrance.
It can be used for all skin types, and is especially a godsend for those with sensitive skin.
How Much Does It Cost? 800 yen (around $5.43 USD)
Where Does This Fit into My Daily Skincare Routine ? This is Step 2 (see guide above)
4 . Rohto Melano CC Intensive Anti-Spot Essence
This vitamin C serum is known for its ability to fade acne scars and hyperpigmentation. It’s a targeted solution for those looking to even out their skin tone and reduce the appearance of blemishes.
Which is pretty handy. Because who wouldn’t have hyperpigmentation or acnes at times, or many times per year? And those spots are irritating to look at, for sure.
It seems every person I know bought this product and excitedly stocking up on it after every Japan trip. Others swear by it, and couldn’t have enough.
Don’t forget to apply sunscreen when using any vitamin C serums, in order to protect your skin from the sun.
How Much Does It Cost? 1,600 yen (around $10.86 USD)
Where Does This Fit into My Daily Skincare Routine ? This is after Step 2, and before Step 3 (see guide above)
5 . Hada Labo Gokujyun UV White Gel
This is an all-in-one product combining lotion, moisturizer, sun screen, and makeup base into one amazing multi-functional skincare product.
When looking at the content inside the container, it looks like a white cream, not a gel like in the product name.
However, when applied on your face, it has the texture of a light-weight whip cream, spreads so softly, smoothly and easily on your skin, and absorbs quickly and beautifully into the skin surface.
And it leaves ZERO white cast, and NO heavy oily-looking skin afterwards, like some other sunscreens you have used in the past.
I am not kidding you when I said this is my FAVORITE, and saved me so much time in my skincare routine, especially on those busy mornings when I had to rush out the door.
So basically, you clean your face in the morning, then put on this gel, and BAMMM, you’re done with your skincare routine and ready for the day.
How simple and easy is that!
How Much Does It Cost? 1,410 yen (around $9.57 USD)
Where Does This Fit into My Daily Skincare Routine ? This replaces Step 4 and Step 5 together (see guide above)
6 . Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence SPF 50+ PA++++
This particular sunscreen needs no introduction. If you ever looked into a widely popular Asian sunscreen to use, chances are you have heard of this one.
Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence SPF 50+ PA++++ is highly favored for its lightweight and non-greasy formula. Its watery and light-weight texture makes it glide easily and smoothly on your skin.
It offers broad-spectrum protection, shielding the skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays, all without leaving a white cast that is common with many other sunscreens.
Containing powerful ceramides in its formula, this sunscreen also helps strengthen and protect your skin barrier, while retaining skin moisture.
Did I say it is also a nice make-up base? Because it is.
How Much Does It Cost? 828 yen (around $5.62 USD)
Where Does This Fit into My Daily Skincare Routine ? This is Step 5 (see guide above)
And there you have it. Are you impressed these high-quality products are also unbelievably affordable? Time to make a shopping list, and go buy some awesome Japanese skincare products for yourself!
I hope this has given you some inspiration to start your skin care journey, and feel great doing it, with these amazing products I have shared. Happy skincaring!
If you have any questions or just want to share your own travel or skin care stories, I’d love to hear from you! Please feel free to reach out to me at evelyn@japanoncloudnine.com, and let’s chat. Thank you for taking the time to read my blog post, and happy travels!
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