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Dry skin is especially common in winter when low humidity pulls moisture from the skin barrier, leading to flaking, irritation, and discomfort. According to Dermatologist Supriya Rastogi, MD MPH, protecting and repairing the skin barrier is key during colder months.
Dermatologists recommend building a skincare routine that supports the skin barrier using gentle cleansers, hydrating lotions, and rich moisturizers containing ceramides, hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and squalane to help draw in and lock moisture.
How we decided
Read on to discover 15 of the best Japanese skincare products for dry skin.
Our recommendations
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Japanese Facial Cleansers
1. Kao Curel Foaming Face Wash Intensive Moisture Care
This foaming face wash from Kao’s Curel range of skincare products is designed specifically for dry and sensitive skin. It thoroughly cleanses the face whilst retaining moisture and protecting ceramides – your skin's natural barrier, and gently removes impurities without stripping the skin of hydration leaving your face feeling smooth and soft.
This foaming facial wash is highly rated for dry and sensitive skin. Users say it gently cleans without stripping moisture, leaving skin soft, calm, and irritation-free. It also works well for combination skin by balancing oil while keeping hydration. Overall, it’s a trusted, gentle Japanese cleanser with consistent positive reviews.
This product is ideal for the second step of the Japanese double cleansing process and for best results should be used in combination with the Curel Makeup Cleansing Gel.
Pros
- Contains ceramides
- Deeply cleanses while locking in moisture
- Gentle enough for sensitive skin
Cons
- Needs pre-cleanse for heavy makeup
- Slightly pricey
2. Bioré The Cleanse Makeup Remover Frictionless Cleansing Oil 190ml
This makeup remover effortlessly dissolves even pore-deep makeup without rubbing. Its gentle, no-rub formula protects your skin’s natural moisture barrier, leaving it soft, hydrated, and refreshed.
Users love that it has no fragrance, emulsifies easily, and rinses off without leaving residue or dryness. It leaves skin feeling soft, clean, and hydrated, making it a popular first step in double cleansing routines. Most reviewers consider it a reliable, gentle Japanese cleansing oil suitable for daily use, including sensitive skin.
Pros
- Effortlessly dissolves makeup
- Contains hyaluronic acid
- Alcohol and fragrance-free
Cons
- Does not emulsify upon contact with water
- SLight residue if not rinsed thoroughly
3. Shiseido Elixir Cleansing Foam II Moist
This foam-based cleanser from Shiseido is suitable for dry skin as it removes dirt and impurities while keeping the skin smooth and moisturized. It contains elastin and water-soluble collagen to support skin elasticity and help improve overall texture. The light, fluffy foam gently cleanses, exfoliates dead skin cells, and helps balance excess sebum.
Overall reviews are very positive, with users praising its gentle yet effective cleansing performance. It removes makeup and impurities without irritation or dryness, leaving skin fresh and comfortable. Many also note that a small amount is enough per use, making it long-lasting and good value. The rich foam is especially appreciated for its clean, non-stripping finish, making it popular for dry and sensitive skin types.
Pros
- Contains hyaluronic acid, collagen
- Anti-aging benefits
- Smooths skin
Cons
- Light fragrance
- Pricier
4. Minon Amino Moist Creamy Wash
The Minon Facial Wash contains plant-derived amino acid as a cleansing component and is highly recommended for consumers with dry and sensitive skin, as well as people who suffer from irritation with neutral or alkaline soap. This product has removed as many allergic ingredients as possible from its formulation and is designed to keep skin healthy and moisturized whilst still working as an effective cleanser.
Many users say it leaves the skin feeling moisturized, soft, and non-tight after washing, with noticeable improvement in dryness over time. However, some users note that it is very mild and may not remove heavy makeup or deep pore impurities effectively, so it works best for light cleansing or bare skin.
Pros
- Contains hydrating amino acids
- Hypoallergenic
- Maintains pH
Cons
- Minimal foam
- Requires proper lathering technique
Japanese Lotions
5. Matsuyama Hadauru Moisturizing Infusion Moist Rich Lotion
Matsuyama Hadauru Moist Rich Lotion is recommended particularly for dry skin because it contains a highly moisturizing formula with a thick texture that blends easily into the skin. This lotion contains soybean-derived ingredients that help the function of the stratum corneum – the skin’s outermost layer that stops the excessive loss of water from exiting the body.
This lotion’s formula also contains hyaluronic acid to retain moisture on the skin’s surface, and five types of blended ceramides to help moisturize and strengthen the protective skin barrier.
Pros
- Contains ceramides, hyaluronic acid
- Deeply hydrating
- Strengthens barrier
Cons
- Not ideal for oily areas
- Slightly sticky
6. Rohto Hada Labo Gokujyun Premium Lotion
One of the most popular Japanese lotions for dry skin, Hada Labo’s Gokujyun Premium Lotion, is an affordable yet highly efficient product formulated with seven kinds of hyaluronic acid to lock in maximum moisture, leaving your skin feeling silky smooth and soft. It can also be used on sensitive skin too as it doesn’t contain any perfume or fragrance, oil, alcohol, or colorants.
This lotion is a popular skincare product among beauty bloggers and influencers, gaining rave reviews from consumers thanks to its fast absorption rate, ability to retain moisture, and skin-plumping effects. It also has plenty of 5-star reviews from Japanese Taste customers who love the amazing results they have seen on their skin, creating a beautiful dewy glow that stays plump and hydrated all day.
Pros
- Contains 7 types of hyaluronic acid
- Fragrance free
- Highly moisturizing
Cons
- May need additional moisturizer
- Focused mainly on hydration
7. Kikumasamune High Moist Lotion Sake Skin Care Lotion
This highly moisturizing lotion contains Japanese sake from Kikumasamune brewery, ceramide, and placenta extract to moisturize, soothe, and tone your skin. Japanese sake is packed full of amino acids, and the high concentration of kojic acid found in rice wine hydrates, smoothens, soothes, and brightens skin by suppressing the production of melanin, helping to correct discoloration and dark spots caused by sun damage.
Sake has been used in Japanese beauty and skincare products for hundreds of years and was a beauty trick used by geisha to brighten and hydrate skin. It can also help to minimize pores and protect the skin from sun damage and premature aging thanks to the presence of ferulic acid, a plant-based antioxidant that fights against free radicals (unstable molecules that cause damage to skin cells).
Pros
- Contains ceramides, sake amino acids
- Has anti aging placenta extract
- Brightens skin
Cons
- Sake rice wine scent
- Can sting compromised skin
8. Sukoyaka Suhada Urea Moisture Lotion
This intensive moisturizing toner is ideal for any dry skin concerns. It features 9 botanical extracts such as chamomile flower which contains powerful antioxidants that help protect skin from damage, and peach leaf extract which reduces signs of pigmentation and boosts skin hydration.
Sukoyaka Suhada Urea Moisture Lotion also contains a blend of three additional highly moisturizing ingredients; urea, hyaluronic acid, and ceramide, and the lotion’s unique formula not only moisturizes the skin but also helps to retain moisture and protects the skin's barrier.
Most reviews highlight that it leaves skin feeling soft, plump, and refreshed while being very gentle on dry and sensitive skin. Many users also note visible improvements in smoothness and hydration with regular use.
Pros
- Contains Urea, ceramides, hyaluronic
- Restores moisture
- Protects skin barrier
Cons
- Slightly watery
- May need layering
Japanese Sunscreens
9. Canmake Mermaid Skin Gel UV Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++
This sunscreen is highly rated for its lightweight, gel-like texture that absorbs quickly without stickiness or heaviness. It provides strong SPF 50+ UV protection while also helping to moisturize dry skin, making it suitable for daily use. The watery gel formula glides smoothly onto the skin, leaves a natural glow, and works well as a makeup base by helping foundation apply more evenly and last longer.
Users frequently highlight its comfortable, non-greasy finish and ability to avoid a white cast in most cases. It is especially appreciated by those with dry or sensitive skin due to its gentle feel and breathable texture.
Pros
- Contains hyaluronic acid
- Lightweight
- Smooth finish
Cons
- Contains some alcohol
- Small size
10. Skin Aqua Super Moisture UV Light Up Essence Sunscreen SPF 50+
This sunscreen is highly rated for its lightweight, silky texture that spreads easily and absorbs quickly without feeling sticky or heavy. Users consistently mention that it provides strong daily UV protection while also offering light hydration, making it especially suitable for dry and sensitive skin. Many reviews highlight its smooth, non-greasy finish and comfortable wear throughout the day.
It is also praised for giving a natural glow or slight tone-up effect, which makes it suitable as a makeup base. Most users report that it layers well under foundation and does not clog pores or cause irritation. While a few note minor concerns such as a slight white cast or residue depending on application, the overall feedback is strongly positive, with many describing it as a reliable everyday sunscreen they repurchase regularly.
Pros
- Contains hyaluronic acid, collagen
- Waterproof
- Fast absorbing
Cons
- Slight white cast
- Contains alcohol
11. Shiseido Anessa Day Serum Moisturizing Sunscreen
This innovative sun care serum developed by Shiseido uses Sun Dual Care™ Technology to provide strong UV protection while also delivering skincare benefits at the same time. It works by converting certain wavelengths into beneficial light, helping to support overall skin health while protecting against sun damage.
For dry skin, it is enriched with hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and collagen, which help maintain moisture and improve skin softness throughout the day. It not only protects the skin but also enhances the appearance of bare skin, leaving it looking smoother, more radiant, and well-hydrated.
Users frequently mention its lightweight, fluid texture that feels comfortable and easy to spread, with many appreciating that it works well under makeup without feeling heavy or greasy. Several reviews highlight its moisturizing effect and how it leaves the skin looking healthier and more even-toned. A few mention a slight white cast or the need to shake before use, but most still describe it as an effective, everyday sunscreen they are happy to repurchase.
Pros
- Contains hyaluronic acid, collagen
- Anti-aging
- Improves texture
Cons
- Expensive
- Small
Japanese Face Creams
12. Atorrege AD+ Squalane Face Cream For Dry Skin 35g
This face cream from Atorrege is designed for dry, sensitive skin and provides deep hydration while helping strengthen the skin barrier. It uses nanocapsule delivery technology to target moisture into deeper skin layers and contains squalane to improve softness and long-lasting hydration. Fragrance-free, paraben-free, and allergy-tested, it is suitable for daily use and helps reduce dryness, irritation, and sensitivity over time.
Users with sensitive and dry skin say it feels gentle, non-irritating, and effective at calming the skin. Many report improved hydration, smoother texture, and reduced redness or tightness after use. Some users say it helped improve long-term skin condition and made their skin feel healthier and more resilient.
Pros
- Hypoallergenic formula
- Deeply hydrate dry skin
- Lightweight for daily/night use
Cons
- Expensive
- Small size
13. Sukoyaka Suhada Urea Moisture Eye Cream
Designed to specifically target dry skin under the eye area, this intensive moisturizing treatment cream from Sukoyaka Suhada contains botanical extracts and ingredients such as urea, hyaluronic acid, and ceramide to deeply hydrate the delicate under-eye area, which is especially vulnerable to early signs of aging. It helps improve moisture retention, smooth fine lines caused by dryness, and supports a stronger skin barrier for long-lasting comfort.
Many users say it is highly moisturizing, smooth to apply, and effective for dry under-eyes. Several reviews highlight visible improvements in fine lines and dark circles caused by dehydration, with some users calling it the most effective eye cream they have tried. Others mention it works well under makeup and absorbs easily without irritation or fragrance.
Pros
- Reduces dryness
- Gentle
- Fragranc Free
Cons
- Slightly Thick
- Results take time
14. Chifure Moisture Face Cream
This fragrance-free Chifure Moisture Face Cream is a simple, affordable moisturizer designed for dry and sensitive skin. It has a light, creamy texture that absorbs well without feeling greasy, helping the skin stay soft, smooth, and comfortably hydrated. Many users appreciate that it is gentle, non-irritating, and suitable for daily use, especially during dry or seasonal weather changes.
Users frequently highlight its strong moisturizing ability, fragrance-free formula, and excellent value for money. Many say it leaves the skin feeling supple and “chewy” (plump and hydrated), with several noting improvements in dryness and skin comfort over time. It is also praised for being suitable for sensitive and reactive skin, including those prone to irritation or atopic tendencies. A few reviews describe it as a simple, no-f
Pros
- Contains hyaluronic acid, trehalose
- Lightweight; absorbs quickly
- Leaves skin plump, dewy, radiant
Cons
- May not provide enough moisture
- No additional actives like ceramides or squalane
15. Verdio Moist Gel Hydrating Skin Lotion for Delicate Skin 200g
This Mentum Verdio Medicated Moist Gel is a lightweight, fragrance-free moisturizing gel designed for dry and sensitive skin on both face and body. It contains barrier-supporting ingredients like glycerin, vaseline, and plant extracts, helping to lock in moisture, reduce dryness, and protect the skin from external irritation. The gel spreads easily, absorbs quickly, and leaves a non-sticky finish, making it suitable for daily use, especially after bathing.
Customer reviews frequently mention that it is very easy to apply, non-greasy, and effective at keeping skin hydrated. Many say it helps with dryness, itching, and rough skin, especially during colder seasons. Several reviewers appreciate that it is fragrance-free and gentle enough for sensitive skin, including children and eczema-prone users.
Pros
- Fragrance/paraben/ethanol-free
- Soothes rough skin
- Ideal for sensitive skin
Cons
- May not suit very dry skin
- Plant extracts may trigger sensitivity
