Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on January 2010

The grinning Bokun Habanero pepper is synonymous with dangerously spicy snacks, but we were surprised to see it gracing a packet of bath salts. Miraculously, this blend of chili and tomato extract is supposed to be good for moisturizing skin, though we’re a bit too scared to try it ourselves. For a less freaky option, try Charley’s Oyasumi Hot Milk no Yu, an additive-free mix of milk extract, honey and chamomile that claims to do nothing more radical than help send you to sleep. The same company also makes Yutanpo Irazu (literally, “no need for a hot water bottle”), a blend of chili, ginger and mikan peel that’s designed specifically for long soaks in tepid water.

Oyasumi Hot Milk no Yu, ¥136; Bokun Habanero, ¥231; Yutanpo Irazu, ¥189. Available from branches of Loft and most major drug stores.