Thanks to the K-beauty boom of recent years, Asian skincare is growing in popularity around the world, and Japanese products are no exception. Medications that prevent and care for acne, in particular, are drawing attention for their unique ingredients.

We asked drugstore staff about Japanese acne products, what they do and which brands are worth a try. Here are their recommendations. 

For more about Japanese skincare, check out our guide to the best Japanese sunscreen brands.

Acne Medication at Japanese Drugstores

To treat outbreaks directly, drugstore staff recommend using a medicated acne cream. These products contain anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial ingredients to soothe and disinfect active spots. Here are some of the top brands that drugstore staff recommend. 

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Lion Pair Acne Cream

Lion Pair Acne Cream remains one of the most recognized acne treatments in Japan. It contains Ibuprofen Piconol (IPPN), which reduces redness and inflammation, and Isopropyl Methylphenol (IPMP), which helps control acne-causing bacteria. The texture absorbs smoothly without leaving a white cast, so it layers easily under daytime skincare or makeup.

Price: Around ¥1,045 (14g)

Makiron Acneige Medical Cream

Makiron Acneige Medical Cream uses benzethonium chloride as its main active ingredient to target bacteria on the skin’s surface. It also includes IPPN to reduce visible redness and promote calmer-looking skin. The formula feels light but moisturizing, and it contains no added fragrance, making it suitable for those who prefer a simpler approach to breakout care.

Price: Around ¥1,200 (18g)

Pimple Patches For Spot Protection

While medicated creams treat inflammation, pimple patches serve a different purpose. These thin hydrocolloid coverings protect active spots from friction and touching while helping seal in treatment products. In Japanese drugstores, both Korean and domestic brands remain popular.

VT Pro CICA Clear Spot Patch

VT is one of the most widely stocked K-beauty brands in Japan. Its CICA-infused hydrocolloid patches contain centella asiatica, an ingredient known for calming irritated skin. The patches sit discreetly on the skin and can be worn for several hours, making them practical for daytime use.

Price: Around ¥700

Today’s Cosme CICA+ Zero Spot Patch

For a Japanese alternative, Today’s Cosme CICA+ Zero Spot Patch offers similar barrier protection. In addition to centella asiatica, it incorporates soothing ingredients such as licorice and rosemary oil. The result is a lightweight patch designed to shield and support healing without drawing attention.

Price: Around ¥850

Oil-Control Skincare For Acne-Prone Skin

Treating individual pimples helps, but preventing new ones requires a consistent routine. Many Japanese acne care products focus on balancing oil production and cleansing away buildup without over-drying the skin.

Bioré Medicated Acne Care Cleanser

Bioré remains one of Japan’s most recognizable skincare brands. This medicated cleanser creates a fine foam that removes excess sebum and surface impurities while helping maintain the skin’s natural balance. Many shoppers choose it as an affordable daily cleanser for acne-prone skin.

Price: Around ¥427 (130g)

Mentholatum Acnes Powder Lotion

Mentholatum Acnes Powder Lotion takes a slightly different approach. The liquid formula contains suspended powder that absorbs excess oil after cleansing, helping reduce shine throughout the day. It also includes antiseptic IPMP, making it a popular addition to a preventative routine.

Price: Around ¥570 (180ml)

For more information, read our full guide to drugstores in Japan.

This page has been brought to you as a public service of The Bluff Medical and Dental Clinic in Yokohama.