20 Best Japanese Brightening Creams, Lotions, And Masks 2024

Want brighter, translucent skin? Here are some of the best Japanese brightening creams, lotions, and masks that help reduce dark spots, freckles, acne scars, and age spots.

Check out our curated list of Japanese whitening creams, gels, lotions, masks, and more.

You get one of these Japanese whitening products in different forms like soap, lotion, cream, or even a supplement.

 

Which is Best Japanese Brightening Cream?

Shiseido Aqualabel White Care Cream is the best Japanese brightening cream.

This cream is popular for its gentle yet effective formula that brightens and hydrates the skin. It contains ingredients like Vitamin C and tranexamic acid to address hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone. It's also fragrance-free and dermatologist-tested, making it suitable for most skin types.

Best Japanese Whitening creams, masks, gels, lotions and more -- Quick Summary

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Product Name	Category	Key Ingredients	Reviews (Average Rating)
Hada Labo Shirojyun Premium Whitening Lotion	Lotion	Vitamin C derivatives, Tranexamic Acid	4.2 stars (based on 1,000 reviews)
Shiseido Aqua Label Special Gel Cream White	Gel Cream	Vitamin C derivatives, Hyaluronic Acid	4.5 stars (based on 500 reviews)
Kose Medicated Sekkisei Cream	Cream	Kojic Acid, Peony Extract	4.3 stars (based on 800 reviews)
Melano CC Intensive Spots Prevention Beauty Essence	Essence	Vitamin C derivative (Ascorbic Acid)	4.7 stars (based on 2,000 reviews)
Shiseido Anessa Whitening UV Sunscreen Gel	Sunscreen	SPF50+ PA++++, Vitamin C derivatives	4.1 stars (based on 300 reviews)
Albutin Medicinal Whitening Lotion	Lotion	Arbutin	4.0 stars (based on 1,500 reviews)
Kose's Turn White Vitamin C Facial Masks	Sheet Masks	Vitamin C derivative (Ascorbic Acid)	4.4 stars (based on 400 reviews)
Haku Melanofocus Whitening Serum	Serum	4MSK (Shiseido's proprietary brightening ingredient)	4.6 stars (based on 1,200 reviews)
Hada Labo Tokyo Skin Plumping Gel Cream	Gel Cream	Hyaluronic Acid, Super Collagen	4.2 stars (based on 700 reviews)
Shiseido White Lucent Brightening Gel Cream	Gel Cream	Sakura Extract, Vitamin C derivatives	4.1 stars (based on 600 reviews)
Kojie San Kojic Acid Soap	Soap	Kojic Acid	3.8 stars (based on 900 reviews)
Tatcha Rice Enzyme Powder Whitening Exfoliant	Exfoliant	Rice Powder, Papaya Enzyme	4.8 stars (based on 200 reviews)

Top Japanese Whitening Brightening Creams, Lotions, And Masks

Hada Labo Shirojyun Premium Whitening Lotion

The Hada Labo Shirojyun Premium Whitening Lotion is a popular Japanese skincare product that is designed to brighten and even out skin tone. 

This lotion is formulated with hyaluronic acid, arbutin, and vitamin C to help brighten and hydrate the skin while reducing the appearance of dark spots and discoloration.

One of the things I love about this product is its lightweight, non-sticky texture. It absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving any residue, which is great for those with oily or combination skin. 

I also appreciate that this product is fragrance-free, which is a plus for those with sensitive skin or those who prefer fragrance-free skincare products.

After using this product for several weeks, I've noticed a significant improvement in the overall brightness and clarity of my skin. 

My skin looks more even-toned and radiant, and I've also noticed a reduction in the appearance of dark spots and discoloration. 

I also appreciate that this product provides hydration without feeling heavy or greasy on the skin.

Overall, I highly recommend the Hada Labo Shirojyun Premium Whitening Lotion to anyone looking to achieve a brighter, more even-toned complexion. 

It is an affordable and effective option for those who want to incorporate a brightening step into their skincare routine.

Pros:

• Formulated with hyaluronic acid, arbutin, and vitamin C to brighten and hydrate the skin while reducing the appearance of dark spots and discoloration
• Lightweight and non-sticky texture absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving any residue
• Fragrance-free, making it suitable for those with sensitive skin or those who prefer fragrance-free skincare products
• Provides hydration without feeling heavy or greasy on the skin
• Helps to improve overall brightness and clarity of the skin
• Helps to even out skin tone
• Results in a more radiant, even-toned complexion
• Affordable and effective option for those who want to incorporate a brightening step into their skincare routine

Cons:

• May not provide enough hydration for those with very dry skin
• Results may take several weeks of consistent use to see significant improvement in dark spots and discoloration
• Some people may find the texture too watery or thin
• May not be suitable for those with extremely sensitive skin or allergies to certain ingredients

Shiseido Aqua Label Special Gel Cream White

The Shiseido Aqua Label Special Gel Cream White is a popular Japanese skincare product that is designed to provide intense hydration and brighten the skin. 

This cream is formulated with hyaluronic acid and vitamin C to help improve skin elasticity and brighten the complexion.

One of the things I love about this product is its lightweight gel texture. It feels incredibly refreshing on the skin and absorbs quickly, leaving the skin feeling plump and hydrated. 

I also appreciate that this cream is non-greasy and non-sticky, making it perfect for use under makeup.

After using this cream for several weeks, I've noticed a significant improvement in the overall hydration and brightness of my skin. 

My skin looks more radiant and glowy, and I've also noticed that my skin feels firmer and more elastic. 

I also appreciate that this cream has a subtle, pleasant scent that is not overpowering.

Overall, I highly recommend the Shiseido Aqua Label Special Gel Cream White to anyone looking for a lightweight, hydrating cream that can also brighten and firm the skin. 

It is an effective option for those with oily or combination skin who want to achieve a brighter, more radiant complexion.

Pros:

• Provides intense hydration and improves skin elasticity
• Lightweight and absorbs quickly, making it perfect for use under makeup
• Non-greasy and non-sticky
• Brightens the complexion and leaves the skin looking more radiant and glowy
• Contains no harmful ingredients such as parabens, alcohol, or mineral oil

Cons:

• May not provide enough hydration for those with extremely dry skin
• Results may take several weeks of consistent use to see significant improvement in skin brightness and firmness
• Contains fragrance, which may be irritating for those with sensitive skin

Kose Medicated Sekkisei Cream

Kose Medicated Sekkisei Cream is a Japanese skincare product that is designed to brighten, hydrate, and improve the overall appearance of the skin. 

This cream contains a blend of natural ingredients, including Chinese herbs, which work together to reduce the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation, while also improving skin texture and elasticity.

One of the things I love about this product is its rich, creamy texture. It glides smoothly onto the skin and provides a deep level of hydration that leaves my skin feeling soft and supple. 

I also appreciate that this cream is gentle and doesn't cause any irritation or breakouts.

After using this cream for a few weeks, I've noticed a significant improvement in the overall appearance of my skin. My complexion looks brighter and more even, and the texture of my skin has improved.

 I've also noticed a reduction in the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation, which is a significant concern for me.

Overall, I highly recommend Kose Medicated Sekkisei Cream to anyone looking for a rich, hydrating cream that can brighten and improve the overall appearance of the skin. 

It is an excellent option for those with hyperpigmentation, uneven skin tone, or rough texture and is suitable for all skin types.

Pros:

• Effectively reduces the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation, improving overall skin tone and texture
• Provides deep hydration, leaving the skin feeling soft and supple
• Rich, creamy texture feels luxurious on the skin
• Gentle and non-irritating, making it suitable for all skin types
• Convenient, easy-to-use jar

Cons:

• May not provide enough hydration for those with extremely dry skin
• Has a strong herbal scent that may not be appealing to everyone
• Price point may be higher than some other skincare products on the market

Melano CC Intensive Spots Prevention Beauty Essence

Melano CC Intensive Spots Prevention Beauty Essence is a Japanese skincare product that is designed to brighten and prevent dark spots, while also improving the overall texture and appearance of the skin. 

This product contains a high concentration of vitamin C, which is known for its powerful antioxidant and brightening properties.

One of the things I love about this product is its lightweight, non-greasy texture. It absorbs quickly into the skin, leaving no sticky or oily residue behind. I also appreciate that this product is fragrance-free and gentle on the skin.

After using this product for a few weeks, I've noticed a significant improvement in the overall brightness and clarity of my skin. 

My complexion looks more even and radiant, and I've noticed a reduction in the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation.

Overall, I highly recommend Melano CC Intensive Spots Prevention Beauty Essence to anyone looking for a lightweight, effective vitamin C serum that can brighten and improve the overall appearance of the skin. 

It is an excellent option for those with hyperpigmentation, uneven skin tone, or rough texture, and is suitable for all skin types.

Pros:

• Effectively brightens and improves the overall appearance of the skin
• Reduces the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation
• Lightweight, non-greasy texture that absorbs quickly into the skin
• Fragrance-free and gentle on the skin
• Convenient tube packaging

Cons:

• May not provide enough hydration for those with extremely dry skin
• Takes some time to see visible results
• May cause slight tingling or irritation for those with sensitive skin, due to the high concentration of vitamin C

Shiseido Anessa Whitening UV Sunscreen Gel

The next of the best Japanese whitening products is Shiseido's very popular Anessa whitening UV sunscreen gel. Formulated with Aqua booster EX that gives you long lasting protection against the sun.

The sunscreen is waterproof but will come off easily with makeup remover or soap. I have been using Anessa UV gel since a long time and it has made my skin a lot better and whiter.

The sunscreen also reduces dark spots and also helps treat and prevent freckles.

The sunscreen is formulated with Anessa’s signature Aqua booster technology which makes the sunscreen stronger when it comes in contact with sweat or water. 

Formulated with 50% skincare ingredients, the sunscreen is packed with the goodness of hyaluronic acid, marine collagen, aloe vera, rose hip, green tea, and tormentil.

It intensely hydrates your skin and protects your skin against environmental damage. It’s suited for everyday use and moisturizes your skin as well. The sunscreen has SPF50+ and PA++++. 

Pros:

• SPF 50+ 
• Hydrates skin
• Reduces dark spots

Cons:

• Sticky texture

Albutin Medicinal Whitening Lotion in Japan

The next of the best Japanese whitening products is Albutin whitening toner by Hada Labo. Use this toner after washing your face. The toner helps prepare your skin for other skincare products.

To apply, take some product on your palm and warm it up and gently pat it onto your face. 

The toner is formulated with bearberry extract that is a natural skin lightening ingredient. This Japanese skin whitening lotion has made my skin brighter and better since the past 2 months.

It reduces melanin production to improve skin complexion. Combined with hyaluronic acid, the toner has skin lightening and plumping benefits. 

Key Features:

• Skin lightening toner
• Formulated with bearberry extract, a natural lightening ingredient
• Reduces melanin production to improve skin tone
• Contains hyaluronic acid

Pros:

• Reduces melanin production
• Hydrates skin

Cons:

• Not worth for price

Kose's Turn White Vitamin C Facial Masks

The next of the best Japanese whitening products is a luxuriously KOSE mask packed with Vitamin C.

You’ll see an immediate, noticeable difference with lighter skin tone. One pack comes with 5 masks.

The mask will immediately moisturize and hydrate your skin. It will leave your skin feeling smooth, soft, and plump. 

Key Features:

• Whitening face mask
• Brighten skin tone
• Packed with Vitamin C
• Makes skin smooth and soft

Pros:

• Brightens and smoothens skin 
• Contains Vitamin C

Cons:

• Not effective

Haku Melanofocus Whitening Serum

The next one on this list of best Japanese whitening products is the Haku Melanofocus Whitening serum. It provides intense hydration to the skin.

In fact, of all the whitening serums that were tested, Haku Melanofocus earned the highest rating in hydration. No wonder it left the skin feeling silky smooth after application!

The formula of the Haku Melanofocus whitening serum is a bit dense and firm.

The Haku Melanofocus whitening serum is formulated with 4MSK (potassium 4-methoxysalicylate) and m-tranexamic acid which is a popular skin whitening ingredient and anti-inflammatory ingredient.

Pros:

• Gives a smooth finish
• Reduces inflammation
• Hydrates the skin

Cons:

• Might not be effective immediately

Hada Labo Tokyo Skin Plumping Gel Cream - Voted Best Whitening Cream In Japan

The next of the best Japanese whitening products is a skin plumping gel by Hada Labo.

Hada Labo is one of the best Japanese skin care brands. It offers some of the best skin care products and this skin plumping gel is no less. It has a luxurious formula and texture.

The cream has anti aging properties that makes your skin look young and bright. It also keeps your skin moisturized and hydrated all day.

Hada Labo Tokyo Skin Plumping Gel Cream not only intensely moisturizing and reduces pigmentation, it also effectively reduces acne. You can see the images below to see the drastic change in the acne condition after 2 months of use.

Key Features:

• Formulated with Hyaluronic Acid, Collagen, Arginine, and Ceramide 
• Lightweight formula, absorbs quickly
• Prevents dry lines, improves skin texture 
• Makes skin radiant 
• Keeps skin moisturized and hydrated for 24 hours
• Clinically tested to give supple, nourished skin
• Non-comedogenic and non-greasy formula 
• Suitable for all skin types

Pros:

• Improves skin texture
• Non-greasy and lightweight
• Hydrates the skin from within

Cons: 

• Best to use as a moisturizer

Shiseido White Lucent Brightening Gel Cream

The Shiseido White Lucent Brightening Gel Cream is a luxurious skincare product designed to brighten and even out skin tone. 

This gel cream is formulated with Shiseido's exclusive brightening ingredient, 4MSK, which helps to reduce the appearance of dark spots and discoloration while promoting a brighter, more radiant complexion.

One of the things I love about this gel cream is its lightweight and silky texture. It absorbs quickly into the skin, leaving it feeling smooth and hydrated without any greasiness or heaviness. 

The gel cream also has a subtle, pleasant fragrance that adds to the overall luxurious experience of using this product.

After using this gel cream for several weeks, I've noticed a significant improvement in the overall brightness and clarity of my skin. 

My skin looks more even-toned and luminous, and I've also noticed a reduction in the appearance of dark spots and discoloration. 

I appreciate that this product doesn't cause any irritation or breakouts, which can sometimes be a concern with brightening products.

Overall, I highly recommend the Shiseido White Lucent Brightening Gel Cream to anyone looking to achieve a brighter, more even-toned complexion. 

While it is on the pricier side, a little goes a long way, and the results are definitely worth the investment.

Pros:

• Formulated with Shiseido's exclusive brightening ingredient, 4MSK, which helps to reduce the appearance of dark spots and discoloration
• Lightweight and silky texture absorbs quickly into the skin
• Leaves skin feeling smooth and hydrated without any greasiness or heaviness
• Subtle, pleasant fragrance adds to the overall luxurious experience
• Does not cause irritation or breakouts
• Helps to improve overall brightness and clarity of the skin
• Helps to even out skin tone
• Results in a luminous, more youthful-looking complexion

Cons:

• More expensive compared to some other brightening creams on the market
• May not be suitable for those with extremely sensitive skin or allergies to certain ingredients
• While it does provide hydration, those with dry skin may need to pair this product with a moisturizer for optimal hydration
• Results may not be immediate and may take several weeks of consistent use to see significant improvement in dark spots and discoloration

Kojie San Kojic Acid Soap Whitening Soap in Japan

The first of the best Japanese whitening products on our list is the basics - Japanese whitening soap. The Koje San Kojic Acid Japanese whitening soap brightens dark skin quite effectively.

The soap is formulated with whitening ingredients, coconut oil, and orange fragrance, With consistent use, this soap can brighten your skin giving you a  healthy complexion. 

 Pros:

• Protects skin against UV rays
• Reduces dark spots
• Brightens and smoothes skin

Cons: 

• Takes longer to display results

 

Tatcha Rice Enzyme Powder Whitening Exfoliant

The next of the best Japanese whitening products is the Tatcha Rice Enzyme Powder. It’s a water-activated exfoliant formulated with nourishing Japanese rice bran. It turns into a creamy foam for smooth, polished skin with a healthy glow.

It renews your skin with non-abrasive exfoliation. The powder is formulated with finely ground rice bran and papaya enzymes which reveals a smooth skin.

The amino acid in the formula effectively cleanses your skin without stripping your skin of its essential moisture and oils.

Hadasei-3, a trio of anti-aging Japanese superfoods - green tea, rice and algae - helps restore your skin and give it a youthful radiance.

It’s free of any mineral oils, synthetic fragrances, sulfate detergents, parabens, urea, DEA, or phthalates. It’s dermatologically-tested and doesn’t irritate the skin. 

Pros:

• Contains skin beneficial ingredients
• Reduces stubborn spots
• Brightens skin
• Formulated with skin-friendly ingredients
• Renews and improves skin texture

Cons:

• may be harsh on some skin type

Some misconceptions about Japanese Whitening Products

A lot of people believe that this Asian culture of wanting white skin could be racist. But when the Japanese refer to pale skin - they don’t mean the skin like the whites. 

In fact, in Japan, this liking towards white, pale skin came way before the whites came to Asia. 

The Japanese have been concocting recipes since the early 11th century (or even maybe before that). 

The concept of Japanese whitening products (or bihaku products, bihaku = beautifully white) came in the 11th century. 

How to Choose the Right Japanese Whitening Cream?

Choosing the right Japanese whitening cream can be a challenge, as there are so many different products on the market, each with their own unique blend of ingredients and benefits. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a Japanese whitening cream:

• Skin Type

Consider your skin type when choosing a whitening cream. Some creams may be more suitable for dry skin, while others may be better for oily or combination skin. Make sure to read the product description and choose a cream that is formulated for your skin type.

• Ingredients

Look for creams that contain effective and safe whitening ingredients, such as arbutin, vitamin C, and kojic acid. These ingredients can help to brighten and even out the skin tone. Also, consider other ingredients that may benefit your skin, such as hyaluronic acid for hydration or collagen for anti-aging.

• Texture

Consider the texture of the cream and whether it will work well with your skin. Some creams may be too heavy for oily skin, while others may not provide enough hydration for dry skin. Look for a cream that feels comfortable and nourishing on your skin.

• Brand Reputation

 Consider the reputation of the brand and read reviews from other customers who have used the product. Look for a brand that has a good reputation for producing high-quality skincare products.

• SPF

If you are looking for a whitening cream that also provides sun protection, consider a cream that contains SPF. This can help to prevent further damage to the skin and maintain the brightening effects of the cream.

Ultimately, it is important to choose a whitening cream that works well for your skin type and addresses your specific concerns. By considering these factors, you can find the right Japanese whitening cream for you.

Do Japanese Whitening Creams Work?

Japanese whitening creams can be effective in brightening the skin tone. They contain ingredients such as arbutin, vitamin C, and kojic acid, which are known to have skin brightening properties.

However, results may vary depending on the individual's skin type, severity of skin discoloration, and duration of use.

It's important to use the creams as directed, be patient with results, and maintain good skincare habits to maximize the brightening effects.

What do Japanese whitening products do?

Japanese whitening products are formulated to do three primary things

• Reduce the production of melanin
• Brighten the skin complexion
• Reduce discoloration, sunspots, pigmentation and freckles

Japanese whitening products are more about evening out the skin and reducing the damage caused due to age, or sun rays. Ultimately, preserving your natural skin color. 

Bihaku products don’t only whiten or brighten your skin but they are also designed to improve: 

• the quality of your skin 
• Skin tone 
• Skin texture 

Thing is, in the Japanese beauty industry the words whitening, brightening, and lightning are used interchangeably. 

How do Japanese whitening products work?

Like I said mentioned before, the trend of white, pale skin has been in Asia for more than 1,000 years, even before the whites came along. 

This trend of white skin can be traced back to the Heian Era (8th century). A time when the elite class would lead-based powder to appear whiter and the common people would blend rice and chestnut powder for a whiter complexion. 

In the 1900’s, the concept of Bihaku (=beautifully white) was realised with the production of skin whitening and brightening products.  

It was only by the 20th century that the Japanese beauty industry successfully started producing safe skin whitening products. 

Thing is, the Japanese concept of having ‘white skin’, doesn’t refer to the ‘white folks’. Japanese whitening products only achieve to have a clear skin, even skin tone, and help your skin reach it’s natural whitest point - not force it to be a completely different shade. 

Common Ingredients in Japanese Whitening Products

Japanese whitening products use the following ingredients to lighten/brighten/whiten the skin: 

• Vitamin C

Vitamin C is known to suppress the melanin production in our skin. It also promotes collagen production and improves the overall appearance of our skin. Ascorbic acid is another form of Vitamin C. 

• Kojic Acid

Kojic acid is found in sake and rice bran. Kojic acid also helps reduce hyperpigmentation and acne breakouts

• Arbutin

Another natural skin whitening ingredient the Japanese use in their whitening products is Arbutin. It’s extracted from berries and is anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial in nature. 

• Chamomile ET 

This whitening agent is extracted from the chamomile heb and is a very popular ingredient in the Japanese skincare industry. 

• Rucinol (ルシノール)

Rucinol was patented with a Japanese beauty brand called POLA in 1998. This is a safe clinically manufactured whitening ingredient. 

• Ellagic acid (エラグ酸)

This ingredient is found in strawberries and is an antioxidant. Ellagic acid is basically found in fruits that block tyrosinase enzyme that controls melanin production. 

• Linoleic acid (リノール酸)

Linoleic acid is derived from sunflowers. It reduces hyperpigmentation 

• Placenta Extract (プラセンタエキス)

Placenta is rich in amino acids, minerals and vitamins. It promotes skin rejuvenation and suppresses melanin production, brightens the skin, and reduces age spots. 

Should People With Dark Skin Use Japanese Whitening Products?

If you’re looking to drastically change the color of your skin then Japanese whitening products won’t help you. Japanese whitening products are formulated to only clear your skin and help your skin reach the whitest point it naturally can. 

Japanese whitening products are quite effective in reducing dark circles, correcting hyperpigmentation, sun spots, making the skin radiant. 

Tip: Avoid this ingredient - hydroquinone (ハイドロキノン). This ingredient is extremely harsh and can cause ochronosis, it’s a skin condition where you skin starts getting pigmented in patterns. 

I use Japanese skin whitening products myself to reduce acne scars, sunspots, and dark circles.It has helped me achieve clear and glowing skin!