May 1, 2025
Japan Drugstore Guide: Best Collagen Products in Japan
Collagen staples for beauty and health in Japan
In Japan, beauty care is seen as more than just skincare—it’s a holistic approach that includes a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. As we age, supplementing collagen becomes important, but maintaining a nutrient-rich diet and getting enough sleep is also key to preserving collagen levels and overall beauty.
In recent years, collagen products and supplements—known as コラーゲン (koragen) in Japanese—have become increasingly popular. Collagen is praised for its wide range of benefits, from improving skin elasticity and hydration to supporting joint health. With so many Japanese collagen products on the market, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming, especially with the variety of formulations and ingredients available.
But don’t worry—we’re here to help! In this article, we’ll introduce some of the best Japanese collagen products you can find at drugstores, including powders, tablets, and drinks. Whether you’re just starting out or are already a regular user, we’ll help you find the perfect option to fit your needs.
Shiseido The Collagen Drink (資生堂 ザ・コラーゲン ドリンク)
Summary:
Shiseido’s The Collagen, launched in 1996, is Japan’s first collagen supplement and remains a category leader. This signature mixed-fruit-flavored drink is packed with vitamins and skin-supporting ingredients. It’s low in calories, caffeine-free, and fat-free, featuring low molecular weight fish collagen for easy absorption and visible results. The formula also includes Shiseido’s exclusive blend of superfruits and beauty-enhancing ingredients to support your natural radiance.
Main Ingredients (per 50ml bottle):
Collagen: 1,000mg
GABA: 9mg
Hyaluronic Acid: 5mg
How to Take:
Drink one bottle per day. Shake well and enjoy chilled.
Price:
Varies by pharmacy, approximately ¥300 per bottle.
What Pharmacists Say:
Pharmacists highly recommend this drink for those aiming to boost inner beauty and energy. With consistent use, expect firmer, more supple skin. They also suggest trying the tablet version (see below) for added convenience.
Shiseido The Collagen Tablet (資生堂 ザ・コラーゲン タブレット)
Fancl Deep Charge Collagen (ファンケル ディープチャージ コラーゲン)
Summary:
FANCL, a leading beauty and wellness brand in Japan, is well-known for its popular Deep Charge Collagen line. These collagen tablets feature highly absorbable collagen peptides, and their mild fruity flavor makes them easy to take. The formula is enriched with hyaluronic acid, rose bud extract, isoquercitrin, and vitamin C—ingredients that support skin hydration, elasticity, and overall radiance.
Main Ingredients (per 6 tablets):
Collagen Peptide: 1,000mg
Rose Bud Extract: 10mg
Isoquercitrin-Containing Powder: 10mg
Vitamin C: 100mg
How to Take:
Take 6 tablets daily with water.
Price:
Varies by pharmacy; approximately ¥1,600 for a 30-day supply.
What Pharmacists Say:
Pharmacists emphasize the importance of daily, consistent use for visible results. Most users see noticeable skin texture and firmness improvements between 6 to 12 weeks of continued use.
Q’sai Cola Rich Collagen Shot (キューサイ コラリッチ コラーゲンショット)
Summary:
Elevate your beauty routine with Cola Rich Collagen Shot, a skin-firming drink enriched with nine beauty-boosting ingredients. Designed to deeply hydrate and support skin elasticity, this collagen-rich formula helps you feel confident and radiant. Its light, fluffy mango flavor makes it enjoyable to drink—even for those who typically shy away from collagen beverages—offering a refreshing and delicious daily boost.
Main Ingredients (per 50ml bottle):
Collagen Peptide: 5,000mg
How to Take:
Drink one bottle per day. Shake well before consuming.
Price:
Varies by pharmacy, but it is approximately ¥600 for a pack of 3 bottles.
What Pharmacists Say:
Pharmacists highly recommend Q’sai’s Cola Rich Collagen Shot for improving skin texture, firmness, and elasticity. With regular use, it’s a popular choice among those looking for visible, long-term results.
Taisho Pharmaceutical Alfe Beauty Conc Powder (大正製薬 アルフェ ビューティコンク パウダー)
Summary:
For firmer, more radiant skin tomorrow, look no further than Alfe Beauty Conc Powder. This powder-type beauty supplement features easily dissolvable collagen peptides and iron, delivering intensive skin support in a convenient stick format. Infused with 12% domestic peach juice, it offers a rich, fruity flavor that makes it a pleasure to drink. Each individually wrapped stick is perfect for on-the-go beauty care.
Main Ingredients (per 2g packet)
Collagen Peptide: 1,000mg
Elastin: 5mg
Hyaluronic Acid: 2mg
How to Take:
Take 1 to 2 packets daily. Can be consumed with or without water.
Price:
Varies by pharmacy; approximately ¥2,700 for a 30-day supply.
What Pharmacists Say:
Pharmacists especially recommend this collagen powder for its added benefits of vitamins B2 and B6, which support healthy skin and mucous membranes. It’s a favorite for those seeking convenient, daily beauty support with noticeable results.
General Tips and Considerations
Tips:
- Consistency is Key
For best results, take collagen products consistently. Most people begin to see noticeable effects after 6-12 weeks of regular use. Setting a routine can help you remember to take it daily. - Be Patient
Collagen works gradually. Don’t expect instant results. With regular use, you should notice improvements in skin elasticity, hydration, and overall appearance over time.
Considerations:
- Watch Your Dosage
Collagen is generally safe, but exceeding the recommended dosage won’t speed up results and may cause digestive discomfort. Always follow the suggested amount. - Check for Allergies
Many Japanese collagen products contain marine or bovine collagen. If you’re allergic to fish, shellfish, or beef, check the collagen source and choose a suitable option. - Consult a Healthcare Professional
If you have health concerns or are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult with a healthcare provider before taking collagen supplements.
This information is based on interviews with Japanese drugstore employees and available product data as of April 2025. Always read the product packaging and instructions carefully, and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or questions regarding treatment.
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.
