Your skincare regimen is incomplete without an effective serum. Check out these best Japanese serum from top Japanese skincare brands and choose the one that’s perfect for your skin type and concern!
The quest for flawless, youthful skin never ends! Unveiling the best Japanese serums of 2024, this guide explores targeted solutions for all skin concerns. From deep hydration to age-defying formulas, discover the potent elixirs that will elevate your skincare routine and leave you with a radiant complexion.
Which is the best Japanese serum?
We tested 20+ Japanese serum on the basis of it's texture, ingredients as well as efficacy, and rated them on a scale of 1 to 5. We found SK-II Facial Treatment Essence to be the best.
SK-II Facial Treatment Essence features SK-II's signature Pitera™, a fermented yeast extract rich in vitamins, amino acids, and minerals. This essence helps improve skin texture, radiance, and hydration, making it a cult favorite for many skincare enthusiasts.
Best Japanese Serum: Quick Summary
| Best Japanese Serum | Best For |
| Hada Labo Rohto Goku-jun New Hyaluronic Serum | Dry Skin |
| Shiseido HAKU Melano-Focus Whitening Beauty Serum | Dark Spots |
| Haba White Lady Vitamin C Serum | Best Anti-aging Japanese Serum |
| Shiseido Elixir Superieur Enrich Serum | Best for Mature Skin |
| Haba White Lady Vitamin C Serum | Anti-aging Serum |
| DHC Revitalizing Booster Serum | hyperpigmentation |
| HABA Lift-Up Serum | Suitable for sensitive skin |
| Pola Wrinkle Shot Medical Serum | Top Japanese Serum For anti aging |
| Albion Japan, Eclafutur Skincare Serum | Damaged Skin |
| Curel JAPAN Kao \Curel Face Care Serum | Oily Skin |
| OBAGI PROFESSIONAL-C SERUM 20% | Oily Skin |
| Japanese UNO Skin Serum Water For Men | Men |
| SK-II Genoptics Spot Essence | Dark Spots |
| Kikumasamune Sake Rich Moisture Lotion Toner | Dry Skin |
Best Serums In Japan
Hada Labo Rohto Goku-jun New Hyaluronic Serum
Best Japanese Serum For Dry Skin
This Japanese beauty serum is one of the best in the market and the Hada Labo is a popular skincare brand loved by many in Japan!
This particular serum is rich in Hyaluronic acid which is known to intensely nourish your skin and provide deep hydration by boosting skin’s hydration level. After application, you’ll notice that your skin will look and feel smoother and more luminous.
This serum is free of any fragrance, mineral oil, alcohol, and colorant which is why I really like this Japanese serum. The consistency is decent and the texture is also fine. What I really liked is that it's non-comedogenic which means it'll not clog my pores.
It's great for hydrating and moisturizing dry skin but it might not be great for oily skin as it'll make it look greasy.
Key Features:
- Contains a high concentration of Hyaluronic acid
- Provides intense hydration to the driest parts of your face and neck
- Skin appears smooth and glow-y after application
- No irritation
- Non-comedogenic
- Suitable for dry skin
Pros:
- Doesn’t clog pores
- Heals skin quickly
- No toxic ingredients
- Affordable
Cons:
- Not suitable for oily skin types
Ratings:
- Ingredients: 9/10
- Texture: 8.5/10
- Efficacy: 9/10
- Value for money: 7/10
- Related: Japanese Beauty Secrets
- Related: Best Japanese Anti Aging Products
- Related: Best Japanese Face Lotions
Shiseido Elixir Superieur Enrich Serum
The Shiseido Elixir Superieur Enrich Serum has a lightweight, gel-like texture that absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue. It has a subtle, pleasant aqua floral scent.
The Shiseido Elixir Superieur Enrich Serum is a decent anti-aging serum that delivers on its hydrating claims and may offer some improvement in fine lines and skin texture.
However, the price point might be a deterrent for some, and the effects on pigmentation may be less noticeable. If you're looking for a lightweight, hydrating serum with some anti-aging benefits, this could be a good option.
However, if you have significant concerns about wrinkles or pigmentation, you might want to consider a more potent formula from a dermatologist.
Pros:
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing gel texture
- Improves skin texture and firmness
- Hydrates and plumps the skin
- Reduces the appearance of fine lines
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Lacks strong focus on hyperpigmentation
- Might not be suitable for sensitive skin without a patch test
Shiseido HAKU Melano Focus Whitening Beauty Serum
Best Japanese Serum For Dark Spots
Shiseido is one of the top Japanese beauty brands and for a good reason. Their skincare range is absolutely amazing and totally worth it! This Haku melano focus whitening beauty serum by Shiseido is another one of the best serum in Japan available on Amazon!
The serum is targeted to reduce pigmentation and brighten your complexion. It has helped me get rid of my reduced dark spots and promoted a more even complexion for clear, dewy skin.
I have personally used this serum for testing purposes and my skin really brightened in about 2 weeks of time. I was impressed that it doesn't even contain any toxic ingredients. It's one of the top serums in Japan.
Key Features:
- Serum targeted to reduce pigmentation
- Works by suppressing melanin production to target dark spots
- Promotes clear, dewy skin
Pros:
- Promotes skin brightening
- Visible changes in less time
- No toxic ingredients
Cons:
- No value for money
Ratings:
- Ingredients: 9/10
- Texture: 9/10
- Efficacy: 9/10
- Value for money: 5/10
Haba White Lady Vitamin C Serum
Best Japanese Anti-aging Serum
The Haba White Lady Vitamin C Serum is targeted to reduce the signs of aging. It contains bamboo water and Hyaluronate that locks in moisture in your skin.
The Vitamin C content in the serum reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines and work towards making your skin appear healthier and younger. It's easily the best vitamin C serum in Japan.
This serum is great even for the most sensitive skin types as it doesn't contain colours, fragrances etc. I love how soothing it makes my skin and after application it takes away all the skin's dryness.
The serum is free of irritants like parabens, mineral oils, colorings, petrochemical surfactants. The ingredients present in the serum doesn’t not irritate the skin. But rather make your skin look and feel smooth and bright.
The only thing I dislike is the fact that it's pretty expensive for its quantity.
Key Features
- Contains bamboo water
- Contains moisturising ingredients
- Contains Hyaluronate
- Contains 6% Vitamin C
- Intensely hydrates the skin
- Reduces the appearance anti-aging signs
- Non-irritating formula
- Paraben-free
- Colorant-free
- Fragrance-free
- No mineral oils present
Pros:
- Doesn’t lead to dryness
- Suits sensitive skin
- No toxic ingredients
Cons:
- Small quantity
Ratings:
- Ingredients: 10/10
- Texture: 9/10
- Efficacy: 8.5/10
- Value for money: 7/10
DHC Revitalizing Booster Serum
DHC Revitalizing Booster serum has a lightweight texture and absorbs quickly. This serum might be suitable for those seeking a lightweight, hydrating option to integrate into their existing routine.
However, individuals with significant concerns like deep wrinkles or hyperpigmentation might need a more targeted product.
Pros:
- Lightweight, hydrating texture
- Improves skin texture and hydration (for some users)
- Affordable compared to some serums
Cons:
- Mixed user experiences on effectiveness
- Might not be suitable for sensitive skin
- "Nano-Cube® technology" claim lacks independent verification
HABA Lift-Up Serum
HABA Lift-Up serum has a lightweight, slightly viscous texture that absorbs quickly. It has a faint, natural scent.
This fragrance and preservative-free serum is a good option for those with sensitive skin seeking to address concerns like wrinkles and loss of elasticity. However, the price point might be a consideration, and individual results may vary.
Remember, consistent skincare with proper sun protection is crucial for achieving and maintaining youthful-looking skin.
Pros:
- Lightweight, fragrance-free, and paraben-free
- May improve skin firmness and reduce fine lines (for some users)
- Suitable for sensitive skin
Cons:
- Mixed user experiences on effectiveness
- Higher price point
- "Immediate" lifting effect likely temporary
Pola Wrinkle Shot Medical Serum
Top Japanese Serum For Anti aging Skin
Pola wrinkle shot medical serum has won several best beauty awards from top beauty magazines, women’s magazines and @cosme in Japan. This is one of the first clinically formulated serum that works as an anti-aging solution in Japan!
This serum has visibly reduced my fine lines and wrinkles in just 4-12 weeks of use. It's the best retinol Japanese serum.
The serum is formulated with NEI-L1 - this ingredient was formulated by the company after 15 years of research on reducing signs of aging. The clinically-tested anti-aging serum is fragrance-free and colorant-free.
Key Features:
- Clinically-formulated serum containing NEI-L1
- Visibly reduces signs of aging with 4-12 weeks of use
- Fragrance-free
- Colorant-free
- Allergy-tested
- Recommended for its anti aging benefits
Pros:
- Promotes skin brightening
- Visible changes in less time
- No toxic ingredients
Cons:
- No value for money
Ratings:
- Ingredients: 9/10
- Texture: 8.5/10
- Efficacy: 8/10
- Value for money: 6/10
Albion Japan, Eclafutur Skincare Serum
Best Japanese Serum For Damaged Skin
This serum repairs skin cells to their optimum condition - thanks to Albion’s proprietary ingredient Nanocesta BL that has effective cell-repairing properties. This serum healed my skin in just about 10 days and made it glow. I'd really like to call this as one of the best serums in Japan.
It intensely moisturizes your skin leaving it smooth and firm after application. Eclafutur serum prepares your skin for the rest of the skincare products to ensure that your skin is ready to absorb all the goodness of your moisturizer and other products.
Key Features:
- Contains a proprietary ingredient by Albion called Nanocesta BL
- Cell-repairing formula
- Moisturizes skin
- Prepares skin for other skincare products that follow for maximum absorption
Pros:
- Good for ageing and damaged skin
- Deep penetration in skin
- Great packaging
Cons:
- No value for money
Ratings:
- Ingredients: 9/10
- Texture: 8.5/10
- Efficacy: 8/10
- Value for money: 6/10
Kao Curel Japan Face Care Serum
Best Japanese Serum For Oily Skin
This Curel face serum uses Ceramide Care Technology and eucalyptus extract. These ingredients help the serum penetrate deep into the skin. The serum deeply hydrates your skin and boosts the moisture concentration in your skin.
It also works around the contour of your skin as it’s effective on areas with thinner skin as well. After application, your skin will become visibly softer and moisturized. I loved using this serum as it's non-sticky and keeps my skin hydrated for long hours.
It contains a moisturizing ingredient that is derived from plants and it’s milky gel texture spreads easily on the skin. It's the best Japanese retinol serum as it has antiaging properties.
Key Features:
- Milky Gel Texture spreads evenly
- Uses Ceramide Care Technology
- Contains Eucalyptus extracts
- Contains moisturizing agent derived from plants
- Penetrates deep into the skin
- Skin appears supple
- Deeply moisturizes the skin
Pros:
- Ideal for oily skin
- Great consistency
- Long lasting effect
Cons:
- Small quantity
Ratings:
- Ingredients: 10/10
- Texture: 9.5/10
- Efficacy: 8/10
- Value for money: 7/10
OBAGI PROFESSIONAL-C SERUM 20%
Top Japanese Serum for Oily Skin
This serum contains the purest form of Vitamin C - L-ascarbic acid. It’s known to strengthen your skin defenses against anti-oxidants and fights oxidative stressors. It also has anti-aging properties that help your skin look younger, and brighter. Definitely, the best vitamin C Japanese serum.
After regular use, your skin will appear brighter with improved skin texture. Your skin will visibly look and feel smoother. Since it has anti aging properties it also reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Key Features:
- Contains L-ascarbic acid, purest form of Vitamin C
- Strengthens skin anti-oxidant defenses
- Fights against oxidative stressors
- Has anti-aging properties
- Reduces fine line and wrinkles in 2-3 weeks of use
- Skin looks visibly smooth and clear after consistent use
Pros:
- Good for elderly crowd
- Quick results
- No toxic ingredients
Ratings:
- Ingredients: 9.5/10
- Texture: 7/10
- Efficacy: 8/10
- Value for money: 7/10
How To Choose A Japanese Serum For Your Skin Type?
- Skin type: The first thing you should consider when choosing a serum is knowing what your skin type is. If you choose a serum that doesn’t suit your skin type then it might lead to worse effects. Check the product label and see if it's suitable for your skin type and only then consider buying the serum.
- Ingredients: Ingredients form the base of any serum, hence looking for the right ingredients is as important. Look for natural and plant based ingredients like vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, retinol, rosehip oil, etc. Don’t opt for anything that has ingredients that can harm your skin like alcohol, parabens, phthalates, mineral oil etc.
- Skin condition: If you have any skin condition like eczema, psoriasis, wrinkles etc, make sure that the serum benefits and heals the condition rather than worsening it. Also, consult your doctor before using any serum on your skin with condition.
- Reviews: Consider reading reviews of the products from the buyers before actually buying the product to know how the product actually is.
How to apply Japanese serum?
Before you apply a serum you first have to cleanse your face. Use your regular cleanser or face wash to get rid of impurities on your face. To apply the serum, put a drop of the serum in each section of your face, that is, cheeks, forehead, chin, and nose, and rub it in.
After you’ve applied the serum, tap your skin in small circular motions for 30-60 seconds. After this, wait for about 60 seconds before you apply your moisturizer. The moisturizer will lock in the serum and its nourishing properties.
But if you’re using a thicker serum then drop a few drops of the dense serum on your palm and rub it in between your palms to warm it up. Then with gentle pressing motion rub your cheeks, forehead, nose, and chin area.
Make sure that you don’t put too much serum as all the extra serum that skin can’t absorb will simply stay on the top layer of your skin and eventually clog your pores leading to breakouts.
When to use a Japanese face serum?
Use a face serum twice a day after using face wash and before moisturizer for best results. You can also apply SPF before applying face serum if you’re going outdoors.
Do you use Japanese serum or moisturizer first?
Use serum first that delivers your skin with essential ingredients and deeper level absorption of activated ingredients that benefit the skin. After serum, use a moisturizer that locks in moisture.
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