Japan is one of the best places in the world to buy cosmetics and skincare. Many products are cheaper than in Malaysia, while some items are only available in Japan or are released there first.
Whether you’re looking for sunscreen, moisturisers, makeup or cleansers, Japanese drugstores and department stores offer thousands of choices.
This guide highlights some of the best Japanese cosmetics worth buying, estimated prices, where to shop and whether they’re worth bringing back to Malaysia.
Exchange Rate Used:
¥100 = RM3.00
Quick Answer
If you’re visiting Japan, these are among the best cosmetics to buy:
| Product | Approx. Price | Approx. RM | Worth Buying? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen | ¥2,500–3,500 | RM75–105 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Hada Labo Lotion | ¥800–1,500 | RM24–45 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Canmake Makeup | ¥700–1,500 | RM21–45 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
| Cezanne Makeup | ¥600–1,200 | RM18–36 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
| Biore UV Sunscreen | ¥700–1,200 | RM21–36 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Rohto Melano CC Essence | ¥1,000–1,500 | RM30–45 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Most of these products are available in Malaysia, but prices in Japan are often lower, especially when combined with tax-free shopping.
Why Buy Cosmetics in Japan?
Many Malaysian travellers shop for cosmetics in Japan because:
- Prices are often lower than Malaysia.
- More product varieties are available.
- New product launches usually appear in Japan first.
- Drugstores frequently run promotions.
- Tax-free shopping can reduce the cost further.
Best Places to Buy Cosmetics
| Store | Best For |
|---|---|
| Matsumoto Kiyoshi | Largest skincare selection |
| Don Quijote | Late-night shopping and souvenirs |
| Sundrug | Competitive prices |
| Welcia | Everyday skincare and cosmetics |
| Cocokarafine | Drugstore brands |
| Loft | Premium beauty products |
| Hands | Higher-end cosmetics and gifts |
If you’re comparing prices, don’t assume every store sells products at the same price. Promotions vary throughout the year.
1. Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen
Approximate Price:
¥2,500–3,500
Approximate RM:
RM75–105
Suitable For:
- Daily use
- Outdoor activities
- Beach holidays
- Tropical weather
Pros:
- Excellent UV protection
- Water resistant
- Lightweight texture
- Popular among Malaysians
Cons:
- More expensive than other sunscreens
Worth Buying?
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
2. Hada Labo Gokujyun Lotion
Approximate Price:
¥800–1,500
Approximate RM:
RM24–45
Suitable For:
- Dry skin
- Normal skin
- Combination skin
Pros:
- Excellent hydration
- Fragrance-free
- Widely recommended
- Affordable
Worth Buying?
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
3. Biore UV Aqua Rich Sunscreen
Approximate Price:
¥700–1,200
Approximate RM:
RM21–36
Suitable For:
- Everyday use
- Oily skin
- Malaysia’s hot weather
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Doesn’t feel sticky
- Affordable
- Easy to apply under makeup
Worth Buying?
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
4. Rohto Melano CC Vitamin C Essence
Approximate Price:
¥1,000–1,500
Approximate RM:
RM30–45
Suitable For:
- Acne marks
- Uneven skin tone
- Dark spots
Pros:
- Popular Vitamin C serum
- Affordable
- Small travel-friendly tube
Worth Buying?
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
5. Canmake Makeup
Popular Products:
- Cream Cheek
- Marshmallow Finish Powder
- Eyeliners
- Lip tints
Approximate Price:
¥700–1,500
Approximate RM:
RM21–45
Suitable For:
- Students
- Beginners
- Everyday makeup
Worth Buying?
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
6. Cezanne Cosmetics
Approximate Price:
¥600–1,200
Approximate RM:
RM18–36
Popular Products:
- Highlighter
- Foundation
- Lipsticks
- Eyebrow pencils
Pros:
- Budget friendly
- Good quality
- Easy to find
Worth Buying?
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Best Cosmetics Under RM30
| Product | JPY | RM |
|---|---|---|
| Hada Labo Lotion | ¥900 | RM27 |
| Biore UV | ¥900 | RM27 |
| Cezanne Lipstick | ¥700 | RM21 |
| Canmake Blush | ¥800 | RM24 |
| Melano CC Face Wash | ¥900 | RM27 |
Perfect if you’re shopping on a budget.
Example Shopping Budget
Budget RM300
| Product | Price |
|---|---|
| Hada Labo Lotion | ¥1,000 |
| Biore UV | ¥1,000 |
| Melano CC Essence | ¥1,200 |
| Canmake Powder | ¥1,200 |
| Cezanne Lipstick | ¥800 |
| Face Masks | ¥2,000 |
| Total | ¥7,200 |
Approximate cost:
RM216
This leaves room to buy a few snacks or souvenirs while staying within a RM300 budget.
Are Cosmetics Cheaper Than Malaysia?
Generally, yes.
Example comparison (prices vary by retailer and promotions):
| Product | Japan | Malaysia |
|---|---|---|
| Hada Labo Lotion | RM27–45 | RM45–70 |
| Biore UV | RM21–36 | RM35–60 |
| Melano CC Essence | RM30–45 | RM50–80 |
For travellers buying multiple items, the savings can quickly add up.
Tax-Free Shopping Example
Suppose you buy:
| Product | Price |
|---|---|
| Sunscreen | ¥3,000 |
| Lotion | ¥1,200 |
| Serum | ¥1,500 |
| Face Masks | ¥2,300 |
| Makeup | ¥3,000 |
| Total | ¥11,000 |
Approximate value:
¥11,000 = RM330
Estimated tax saving:
Around ¥1,100 (RM33).
Combined with lower Japanese retail prices, the total savings can be even greater compared to buying the same products in Malaysia.
Common Mistakes Malaysians Make
Buying Winter Skincare
Some moisturisers sold in Japan are formulated for cold, dry winters.
These may feel too heavy in Malaysia’s hot and humid climate.
Buying Too Many Backups
Cosmetics have expiry dates.
Avoid buying more than you can reasonably use.
Not Comparing Prices
The same product can differ in price between Don Quijote, Matsumoto Kiyoshi and other drugstores.
A quick comparison can save you several hundred yen.
Ignoring Luggage Weight
Skincare bottles and face masks become surprisingly heavy when bought in large quantities.
If you’re close to your baggage allowance, the cost of excess baggage may outweigh your savings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Japanese cosmetics genuine in Japan?
Yes.
Buying directly from reputable Japanese retailers is one of the best ways to ensure you’re purchasing authentic products.
Are Japanese cosmetics cheaper than Malaysia?
In many cases, yes.
Prices are often lower, and tax-free shopping can increase your savings.
Can Malaysians bring cosmetics home?
Generally, yes, for personal use.
If you’re carrying unusually large quantities, Malaysian customs may ask additional questions.
Which store has the cheapest cosmetics?
There is no single cheapest store.
Matsumoto Kiyoshi, Sundrug, Don Quijote and Welcia frequently have competitive prices and promotions.
Comparing prices before purchasing expensive items is recommended.
Final Verdict
Japanese cosmetics remain one of the best purchases for Malaysian travellers visiting Japan.
Products such as Anessa, Hada Labo, Biore UV, Rohto Melano CC, Canmake and Cezanne offer excellent quality at prices that are often lower than in Malaysia.
If you plan to spend RM300–500 on cosmetics, shopping in Japan can provide better value, a wider product selection and access to items that may not yet be available locally. For even greater savings, combine your purchases into a tax-free transaction at participating stores.
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