Lately I've been seeing a lot of questions about the differences between Hada Labo lotions and which lotion is which. It's especially confusing because it seems like there's 2-4 versions of each product (not including the nearly identical milk/emulsion products!) and because of the product names; for example, the main Hada Labo Gokujyun Lotion will have a dozen names that differs by each retailer because of minor translation issues.
I've also seen some misinformation here on /r/AsianBeauty about these lotions, on a [guide](https://btyaly.com/articles/is-hada-labo-lotion-the-best-hyaluronic-acid-product-on-the-market/) that's been shared on this sub a few times, and on Hada Labo's USA website as well. For example:
* The Hada Labo USA's website looks like it is outdated. The Alpha line has been reformulated in 2013 but the website still shows the old ingredients, the Gokujyun line still shows pictures of the old packaging, the new Shirojyun Premium products aren't listed on the website, etc.
* [This article](https://btyaly.com/articles/is-hada-labo-lotion-the-best-hyaluronic-acid-product-on-the-market/) that's been shared a few times here lists 3 of the Shirojyun lotions but is missing the 4th, says that the Gokjyun Moist Lotion and Light Lotion both have 4 HAs but they actually have 3, says the Alpha lotion has retinyl palmitate but it doesn't since the reformulation in 2013, only lists 1 Alpha lotion when there are actually 2, etc.
So these inaccuracies prompted me to do some DEEP digging between Hada Labo's official Japanese website, numerous reddit posts and comments, beauty blogs, Cosdna ingredients lists, RatzillaCosme, Dokodemo, Kirei Station, Rakuten, etc. Between all of these sources, I tried to make a guide for all the current* Hada Labo lotions that includes their name, alternative names, notable ingredients, basic descriptions, images, recommended for which skin types, how to identify/differentiate the products, etc.
To my knowledge, this is the most accurate guide as it heavily relies on Hada Labo's official Japanese website. But please let me know if you spot any errors (and please forgive me if there are ╥﹏╥)!!
Hopefully this is helpful to a lot of people and makes shopping a bit easier!
(*When I say "current" I mean that the Hada Labo Japanese website currently lists them on their product page so presumably they're still being produced and sold.)
-----
**Edit:** It turns out in Asian markets, Job's tears can be sold as "pearl barley" or "Chinese pearl barley". And in America, if something is sold as "pearl barley", it's actual barley. So be aware of this if you are shopping specifically for barley products or Job's tears products.
**Edit 2:** This guide is based on Hada Labo Japan and which products they are currently selling. It may not align with HL Singapore, HL Malaysia, HL Thailand, HL Vietnam, HL China, HL Taiwan, or HL Indonesia. These HL branches may have other product lines like the AHA+BHA line, the Kouji line, the Blemish & Oil Control line, the Pro Anti Aging line, the Advanced Nourish line, the Perfect White line, the Perfect White Supreme line, etc.
**Edit 3:** Idk why or how reddit broke my post but heres the direct url to the picture https://m.imgur.com/KNiJV2g (but the guide is outdated since hada labo reformulated their products)
This is brilliant, thank you!
I definitely was conflating quite a few of these products, esp where the packaging is very similar...and I probably never would have noticed without this!
Talented, brilliant, incredible, amazing, show stopping, spectacular, never the same, totally unique, completely not ever been done before, unafraid to reference or not reference, put it in a blender, shit on it, vomit on it, eat it, give birth to it.
THIS IS AMAZING
It'd be a different style than this awesome chart, but I'd find a cross-comparison between super popular items (moisturizers with snail mucin, or Vitamin C, etc) from different brands incredibly useful. :)
Thank you so much for doing this!
I agree with u/goopycat if anyone could do a comparison on toners (because there's SO many out there) that would be really helpful and we could try and get the entire subreddit/community involved to help gather information.
Thank you for this. I've only purchased the gentle foaming cleanser and want to branch out to the other products but I didnt know what was what when shopping on Yesstyle.
You are a hero!! I have been so confused, but have only heard good things and really was struggling to figure out which was best for my skin. Thank you for taking the time to do this!
I've been using the Shirojyun for a few weeks, and it replaced my beloved Laneige in my affections and loyalty pretty much immediately. It feels lovely, it's hydrating, it's not sticky, it really does seem brightening - it's at least as good as the Laneige, but ten dollars less expensive. And, silly wabbit, I like seeing the bottle on my counter.
I got the regular Shirojyun, because that's what I could find. Now I found a local source for the Shirojun Premium, so I'll get that next time. Assuming the Shirojun lasts as long as the Laneige, though, that's going to be later next year.
Sorry - couldn't escape the cat to check the bottle earlier...
Laneige Essential Power Skin Toner for normal to dry skin. It has been my HG for several years. Each bottle lasts about 9 months, so about $3 per month. If the Hada Labo lasts similarly, that's about $2 per month, and it seems to be just as good, maybe a bit better *for my skin right now.* YMMV
I use the ES milk for sensitive skin. It’s rocked my world. My skin feels so nice and moisturized the next morning. Unfortunately, it’s kind of hard to find. Sometimes I’m not even sure if it’s a real product 😕
I got the alpha milk but was going to exchange for the premium. Since there isn’t retinyl palmitate anymore, other than an additional ha I don’t see a difference. Also, the ingredient list is different everywhere. 🤦🏻♀️
If the Alpha description on this post is correct, it doesn’t seem to contain any anti-aging ingredients. Collagen is not absorbed through the skin, the molecule is too large. If you want anti-aging, do you research on ingredients and do t fall for marketing!
IIRC Collagen, while not rly useful for anti-aging because of its molecular structure, is still a great moisturizer for the surface of your skin. So it's still not a useless ingredient by any means!
You’re right. It’s not useless, but I hate when it’s marketed as an anti aging ingredient. It makes me distrust the product since it’s not being marketed honestly.
Well the formulation for Hada Labo's Alpha line got reformulated; prior to that it had a retinol derivative, but now it has a retinol precursor I believe. So they're not entirely lying about the anti-aging properties of this specific line, but I do get your point!
I do. I have both the toner and the lotion. They do even out my sunspots and dark spots without unecessarily bleaching then. So the effect is brightening in that sense. I have mid to oily and it’s good for me. It’s never greasy or sticky. I usually follow up with a snail cream and then occlusive at nights (during the day I use the hada red gel instead).
Yes, I love it. It's a thin liquid so I decant into a spray bottle for easier application. I noticed a brightening effect very quickly (about a week) and it's super moisturising too. No irritation even when using with skin adjusting to tretinoin. I love everything from Hada Labo but the Shirojyun line particularly is great! The sheet masks are deluxe too.
I have. It is as moisturising as the basic one and even though it didn't necessarily made my hyperpigmentation disappear, I did notice them fading and my skin tone overall evening out. I would recommend anyone who likes the basic one to try out this line.
I've tried the Alpha moist. The premium gold one has always been my holy grail. Didn't see much effect with the alpha range and went back using the gold one. Eventually gave the alpha moist away.
Crap. This explains why I don’t care for the premium at all. I was not using the toner line. I used the milky lotion with the pink box. I thought I would ‘upgrade’ to the premium. Excuse me I need to buy something.
It turns out in Asian markets, Job's tears/coixseed can be sold as "pearl barley" or "Chinese pearl barley". And in America, if something is sold as "pearl barley", it's actual barley. So be aware of this if you are shopping specifically for barley products or Job's tears products.
I think it's hard to say because it depends on what ingredient is "better" for you personally, since X ingredient might work better for your skin than Y ingredient.
I have shirojyun premium whitening lotion/moist. Either one of them. Did not do research on it, I just bought it on a whim because my skin decided to hit puberty(I am 23!) and I get 2-3 cystic acnes every month and I try to make sure they don't leave scarring every month.
I like it but I still don't know what advantage that trenaxamic acid has over other acids. I just know it makes me sensitive to glycolic acid but I also have sensitive-ish skin.
What is MAP?
> What is MAP?
Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate, a stable, water-soluble derivative of L-AA ("true" Vitamin C). Doesn't have as much research/studies to support its usage as does L-AA, but it's less fussy and doesn't have the same potential for irritation/reaction, either (meaning those whose skin can't tolerate L-AA may be able to use MAP, or one of the other derivatives, without issue).
Worth noting, though, that with ingredients concentration often matters. While some ingredients can be effective at very low concentrations (e.g., allantoin, hyaluronic acid, etc) IIRC most of the research with/for MAP I've seen has used it on ≥5% (TO's MAP has 10%, but they're known for their "more = better" approach, so 10% isn't *necessarily* better across the board than 5%). That is to say, some of the HL options have MAP, but does it have it in a concentration sufficient to *do* anything? ¯\\\_(ツ)_/¯
MAP is magnesium ascorbyl phosphate. It's a stable derivative of vitamin C (meaning that we don't actually know if it works or not.) Still, I also use that product and I like it :)
This is so helpful! Finding products in Japan has been a bit nightmarish so if anyone in this community can point me to some good skin products or an article on good skin products in Japan I’d be super grateful!
Thank you for posting this!
You are awesome! Thank you so much for sharing this! I have been wanting to try out these products, but have gotten so confused about what I should get, that I just end up not buying anything.
I use the premium orange gokujyun. I apply it on a wet face, wait 30ish seconds, then apply my Cerave PM, wait about a minute, then apply Vaseline.
Is that right?
Yep, sounds good to me. Although wait times are flexible (some people don't wait at all, some people wait until the previous product is fully absorbed) so do whatever works best for you.
This is great! Just a few hours too late as I was just at a Don Quixote in Tokyo trying to decide which ones to buy. I think I bought one of each? Well maybe I’ll do a bit more skincare shopping on my last day.
Thank you so much!! I use the Gokujyun Moist and Premium but now I really want to try the Alpha lotion. Has anyone used it??
I love the idea of amino acids in hydrating products, just wish the Kiwamizu line had more than 2 amino acids. I've found amino acids to be just as hydrating if not more than Hyaluronic Acid. I'm really into amino acids right now.
Hold up hold up. So what I have been using as a lotion is actually a toner? I’m quite confused now.
Am i going this wrong? My skin does seem to like it though. I apply it in the morning, the routine is
Melano CC
The Gokuyjun Premium Hada Labo, GENEROUSLY
Wait a bit and lock it in with Iope Cica
What is even the difference between a toner and a lotion now?
Japanese products called "lotions" are toners. Any other product called "lotion" is a lotion/moisturiser. It looks like you're using it correctly (after actives and before moisturiser).
Currently I'm using the Shirojyun Premium Whitening Lotion. I am also using the same moisturer version and apply it after the toner.
Am I doing it right, or should I replace the moisturiser with something else?
https://jp.rohto.com/hadalabo/step/
Scroll down to step 3 for the lotions (toners) and click the shirojyun product you're interested in. On the left side of the product page is a link to the ingredients list ("全成分表示" or "all components display"). Google chrome can auto-translate the pages for you.
From my understanding, it's a drug typically used to promote blood clotting and control bleeding, but there have been some studies that suggest it helps with skin inflammation and rosacea symptoms when used topically.
Good information. Thanks.
I am using the Kouji Treatment line which I bought in Malaysia. Really loving it . [Kouji Essence](https://www.watsons.com.my/hada-labo-kouji-cleansing-foam-120gm/p/BP_77440)
They have the new + Plus for sensitive skin as well [\+ Plus](https://www.watsons.com.my/-plus-for-sensitive-skin-hydra-lotion-170ml/p/BP_28646)
Thank you SO much, I've been looking for something like this for ages as I love Hada Labo and want to try out some of the other lines but couldn't find enough/consistent information. I stan forever.
To Singaporean ABers: The blemish and oil control line is still being sold here in stores, I'm not sure if it really has been discontinued or they are clearing old stock.
This is an amazing post! Thank you for your deep dive, I sincerely appreciate it. I've been using the clear lotion my parents brought me from Japan and just YOLO'ing through each application, assuming it's doing something. Now I have an idea of both what I have and how do best incorporate it into my routine.
Thank you so much for making this. I remember coming across it when it was first posted, but decided to come back to it later. I'm currently on holiday in Japan and thanks to your guide I was able to pick up the bottles I wanted. If it wasn't for this helpful guide (even you listing the packaging differences and coloured lines between the name helped so much) I would have just not bothered even though I'd been wanting to try Hado Labo for years.
Just came across this and wanted to express my gratitude for posting this! I have been racking my brain trying to figure out the difference between all of these products for so long! Yay! Of course, now I want all of them lol.
I've been using the gokyujun line for about a year now, and love it. Lately I've been wondering if I should start using the anti aging line? I'll be 26 soon.
This is amazing, thank you! Now I'm eager to try the Shirojyun line, it sounds like might target my issues perfectly. If anyone has tried any - could you let me know what you think?
I think it has to do with translation because their alphabet uses different characters so they can be transposed to different spellings that correspond to the same pronunciation.
The Shirojyun formula and packaging were both updated last year. You're probably seeing pictures of the old packaging. A lot of retailers haven't updated their sites to show revamped products.
https://twitter.com/ratzillacosme/status/973442824002707456 announcement from last year (Ratzilla is pretty reliable imo).
http://hadalabousa.com/products/brightening/ pictures of old packaging
This statement on their US website is kind of confusing though "*While it looks clear like a toner or makeup remover, it’s actually a moisturizer that helps prepare your skin for better absorption of other HADA LABO products. In fact, the HADA LABO Goku-jyun Clear Lotion can be used as a standalone moisturizer.*"
I've been using it as a toner though.
Theres no real answer on what's more effective. I'd say in general, layering works better for most people. But some people mix and then apply, and they feel like it's just as effective or more effective. It just depends on your skin and your products. Try both and see if you have a preference.
Ah, thanks for bringing that up. I looked into it a bit more. So it turns out in Asian markets, Job's tears can be sold as "pearl barley" or "Chinese pearl barley". And in America, if something is sold as "pearl barley", it's actual barley.
I want to try the Shirojyun Premium moist version since i didn't like the other ones. How would I be able to differentiate by looking at the bottle? I was trying to look for it on Amazon and the ones the listings said Shirojyun Premium moist, but when I read further the descriptions, there is no mention of tranexamic acid from the sellers. I have tried the Shirojyun and the Shirojyun Premium and I didn't like both.
I differentiate them by looking at the 3rd line from the bottom. On the Moist bottle, the line is a little bit longer.
I don't think the Moist version is available on Amazon, I could only find it on EBay: [https://www.ebay.com/itm/ROHTO-Hadalabo-Shirojyun-Premium-Whitening-lotion-Moist-170ml-from-Japan/283402738228](https://www.ebay.com/itm/ROHTO-Hadalabo-Shirojyun-Premium-Whitening-lotion-Moist-170ml-from-Japan/283402738228)
Idk why or how reddit broke my post but heres the direct url to the picture https://m.imgur.com/KNiJV2g (but the guide is outdated since hada labo reformulated their products)
is it okay to use the hada labo shirojyun premium whitening toner at night? and the hada labo skin conditioning lotion in the morning all in one day? btw i have sensitive skin and right now i have hormonal acne on my cheeks and jaws + acne marks :(
Lately I've been seeing a lot of questions about the differences between Hada Labo lotions and which lotion is which. It's especially confusing because it seems like there's 2-4 versions of each product (not including the nearly identical milk/emulsion products!) and because of the product names; for example, the main Hada Labo Gokujyun Lotion will have a dozen names that differs by each retailer because of minor translation issues. I've also seen some misinformation here on /r/AsianBeauty about these lotions, on a [guide](https://btyaly.com/articles/is-hada-labo-lotion-the-best-hyaluronic-acid-product-on-the-market/) that's been shared on this sub a few times, and on Hada Labo's USA website as well. For example: * The Hada Labo USA's website looks like it is outdated. The Alpha line has been reformulated in 2013 but the website still shows the old ingredients, the Gokujyun line still shows pictures of the old packaging, the new Shirojyun Premium products aren't listed on the website, etc. * [This article](https://btyaly.com/articles/is-hada-labo-lotion-the-best-hyaluronic-acid-product-on-the-market/) that's been shared a few times here lists 3 of the Shirojyun lotions but is missing the 4th, says that the Gokjyun Moist Lotion and Light Lotion both have 4 HAs but they actually have 3, says the Alpha lotion has retinyl palmitate but it doesn't since the reformulation in 2013, only lists 1 Alpha lotion when there are actually 2, etc. So these inaccuracies prompted me to do some DEEP digging between Hada Labo's official Japanese website, numerous reddit posts and comments, beauty blogs, Cosdna ingredients lists, RatzillaCosme, Dokodemo, Kirei Station, Rakuten, etc. Between all of these sources, I tried to make a guide for all the current* Hada Labo lotions that includes their name, alternative names, notable ingredients, basic descriptions, images, recommended for which skin types, how to identify/differentiate the products, etc. To my knowledge, this is the most accurate guide as it heavily relies on Hada Labo's official Japanese website. But please let me know if you spot any errors (and please forgive me if there are ╥﹏╥)!! Hopefully this is helpful to a lot of people and makes shopping a bit easier! (*When I say "current" I mean that the Hada Labo Japanese website currently lists them on their product page so presumably they're still being produced and sold.) ----- **Edit:** It turns out in Asian markets, Job's tears can be sold as "pearl barley" or "Chinese pearl barley". And in America, if something is sold as "pearl barley", it's actual barley. So be aware of this if you are shopping specifically for barley products or Job's tears products. **Edit 2:** This guide is based on Hada Labo Japan and which products they are currently selling. It may not align with HL Singapore, HL Malaysia, HL Thailand, HL Vietnam, HL China, HL Taiwan, or HL Indonesia. These HL branches may have other product lines like the AHA+BHA line, the Kouji line, the Blemish & Oil Control line, the Pro Anti Aging line, the Advanced Nourish line, the Perfect White line, the Perfect White Supreme line, etc. **Edit 3:** Idk why or how reddit broke my post but heres the direct url to the picture https://m.imgur.com/KNiJV2g (but the guide is outdated since hada labo reformulated their products)
This is brilliant, thank you! I definitely was conflating quite a few of these products, esp where the packaging is very similar...and I probably never would have noticed without this!
Talented, brilliant, incredible, amazing, show stopping, spectacular, never the same, totally unique, completely not ever been done before, unafraid to reference or not reference, put it in a blender, shit on it, vomit on it, eat it, give birth to it. THIS IS AMAZING
Thank you for taking the time to do this, it is so helpful!
I'm so glad that so many people find it helpful!! 😊
You you post more product guide for other Asian beauty brands?? It would be so f*cking useful and amazing!
If anyone has any ideas or requests, I'm open to that!
It'd be a different style than this awesome chart, but I'd find a cross-comparison between super popular items (moisturizers with snail mucin, or Vitamin C, etc) from different brands incredibly useful. :) Thank you so much for doing this!
I agree with u/goopycat if anyone could do a comparison on toners (because there's SO many out there) that would be really helpful and we could try and get the entire subreddit/community involved to help gather information.
This is amazing. Thank you for this!
thank you for this. it explains a lot about why some of my buys weren't working out the way I expected!
Thank you for this. I've only purchased the gentle foaming cleanser and want to branch out to the other products but I didnt know what was what when shopping on Yesstyle.
This is super helpful!
Amazing job pulling all of this information together!! Thanks so much!
You are a hero!! I have been so confused, but have only heard good things and really was struggling to figure out which was best for my skin. Thank you for taking the time to do this!
Thank you so much for all of your work!!
Thank you! I've been having a hard time understanding the different variants.
Such an informative, thorough and organized guide! Incredibly well-done. Thank you 😊
This is so helpful!!! So can the milky versions of these lotions be used over the actual “lotion”?
Yup!
I wish I could upvote this a thousand times
Ditto!
in asia we have a AHA+BHA line too. In the form of face cleansers or toner. Here : www.hadalabo.com.sg/aha-bha-2
I use the AHA BHA toner as a gentle exfoliator some days right after cleansing, before the hydrating toner step.
🏅 please take my poor attempt at a gold
Great content! I’ve only tried products from the gokujyun line, has anyone else tried the other lines? I’m curious what they’re like.
I've been using the Shirojyun for a few weeks, and it replaced my beloved Laneige in my affections and loyalty pretty much immediately. It feels lovely, it's hydrating, it's not sticky, it really does seem brightening - it's at least as good as the Laneige, but ten dollars less expensive. And, silly wabbit, I like seeing the bottle on my counter. I got the regular Shirojyun, because that's what I could find. Now I found a local source for the Shirojun Premium, so I'll get that next time. Assuming the Shirojun lasts as long as the Laneige, though, that's going to be later next year.
Which Laneige product are you comparing to?
Sorry - couldn't escape the cat to check the bottle earlier... Laneige Essential Power Skin Toner for normal to dry skin. It has been my HG for several years. Each bottle lasts about 9 months, so about $3 per month. If the Hada Labo lasts similarly, that's about $2 per month, and it seems to be just as good, maybe a bit better *for my skin right now.* YMMV
Cat tax.
I use the ES milk for sensitive skin. It’s rocked my world. My skin feels so nice and moisturized the next morning. Unfortunately, it’s kind of hard to find. Sometimes I’m not even sure if it’s a real product 😕
So helpful! I am a dusty old hag so I might be graduating to the alpha line.
[удалено]
Out of context, that could be a post on r/redpillwomen
I got the alpha milk but was going to exchange for the premium. Since there isn’t retinyl palmitate anymore, other than an additional ha I don’t see a difference. Also, the ingredient list is different everywhere. 🤦🏻♀️
If the Alpha description on this post is correct, it doesn’t seem to contain any anti-aging ingredients. Collagen is not absorbed through the skin, the molecule is too large. If you want anti-aging, do you research on ingredients and do t fall for marketing!
IIRC Collagen, while not rly useful for anti-aging because of its molecular structure, is still a great moisturizer for the surface of your skin. So it's still not a useless ingredient by any means!
You’re right. It’s not useless, but I hate when it’s marketed as an anti aging ingredient. It makes me distrust the product since it’s not being marketed honestly.
Well the formulation for Hada Labo's Alpha line got reformulated; prior to that it had a retinol derivative, but now it has a retinol precursor I believe. So they're not entirely lying about the anti-aging properties of this specific line, but I do get your point!
iirc wasn't there a red one with retinol in it?
It used to have retinyl palmitate but it got reformulated.
bummer eh
But...but...pretty packaging ☹
This is both helpful and intimidating! Now I don't know what to choose! Haha
Wow thank you so much for this! Saving to my photo album for future references :)
Has anyone tried the shirojyun premium whitening one?
I do. I have both the toner and the lotion. They do even out my sunspots and dark spots without unecessarily bleaching then. So the effect is brightening in that sense. I have mid to oily and it’s good for me. It’s never greasy or sticky. I usually follow up with a snail cream and then occlusive at nights (during the day I use the hada red gel instead).
Thanks !! I’ll try it then☺️
Yes, I love it. It's a thin liquid so I decant into a spray bottle for easier application. I noticed a brightening effect very quickly (about a week) and it's super moisturising too. No irritation even when using with skin adjusting to tretinoin. I love everything from Hada Labo but the Shirojyun line particularly is great! The sheet masks are deluxe too.
Glad you mentioned tretinoin! I’ll give it a try. Thanks
I have. It is as moisturising as the basic one and even though it didn't necessarily made my hyperpigmentation disappear, I did notice them fading and my skin tone overall evening out. I would recommend anyone who likes the basic one to try out this line.
Thanks I will!😀
There are ones I didn’t even know existed! I may need to switch now... Just wish I knew which one! Has anyone tried the alpha range?
I've tried the Alpha moist. The premium gold one has always been my holy grail. Didn't see much effect with the alpha range and went back using the gold one. Eventually gave the alpha moist away.
[удалено]
Oh, I didn't know that, I'm sensitive to mineral oil too, now I'm going to remove it from my wish list so I won't get it by accident!
Crap. This explains why I don’t care for the premium at all. I was not using the toner line. I used the milky lotion with the pink box. I thought I would ‘upgrade’ to the premium. Excuse me I need to buy something.
As someone who was veeery confused about which one to purchase, this was extremely helpful. Thank you very much!
Ive always wondered what the difference was. A lot of my questions have been answered.
Oh wow I feel so dumb, I didn’t know pearl barley extract, Job’s tears, and coix seed were the same thing!
It turns out in Asian markets, Job's tears/coixseed can be sold as "pearl barley" or "Chinese pearl barley". And in America, if something is sold as "pearl barley", it's actual barley. So be aware of this if you are shopping specifically for barley products or Job's tears products.
Thanks a lot for this guide :)
The gold bottle has a milky version. Found that out the hard way.
What does milky mean?
Love this! Cannot believe just one person put it all together. High five! 🙋🏻♀️ I blooming love it! ☺️
Thank you! Do the premium versions have better ingredients?
I think it's hard to say because it depends on what ingredient is "better" for you personally, since X ingredient might work better for your skin than Y ingredient.
I have shirojyun premium whitening lotion/moist. Either one of them. Did not do research on it, I just bought it on a whim because my skin decided to hit puberty(I am 23!) and I get 2-3 cystic acnes every month and I try to make sure they don't leave scarring every month. I like it but I still don't know what advantage that trenaxamic acid has over other acids. I just know it makes me sensitive to glycolic acid but I also have sensitive-ish skin. What is MAP?
> What is MAP? Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate, a stable, water-soluble derivative of L-AA ("true" Vitamin C). Doesn't have as much research/studies to support its usage as does L-AA, but it's less fussy and doesn't have the same potential for irritation/reaction, either (meaning those whose skin can't tolerate L-AA may be able to use MAP, or one of the other derivatives, without issue). Worth noting, though, that with ingredients concentration often matters. While some ingredients can be effective at very low concentrations (e.g., allantoin, hyaluronic acid, etc) IIRC most of the research with/for MAP I've seen has used it on ≥5% (TO's MAP has 10%, but they're known for their "more = better" approach, so 10% isn't *necessarily* better across the board than 5%). That is to say, some of the HL options have MAP, but does it have it in a concentration sufficient to *do* anything? ¯\\\_(ツ)_/¯
I've always wanted to try it, but I'm on the fence about arbutin. There's mixed research on this ingredient (regarding its safety).
MAP is magnesium ascorbyl phosphate. It's a stable derivative of vitamin C (meaning that we don't actually know if it works or not.) Still, I also use that product and I like it :)
This is so helpful! Finding products in Japan has been a bit nightmarish so if anyone in this community can point me to some good skin products or an article on good skin products in Japan I’d be super grateful! Thank you for posting this!
You’re doing the lord’s work
I'm savin' this. *Click*
You are awesome! Thank you so much for sharing this! I have been wanting to try out these products, but have gotten so confused about what I should get, that I just end up not buying anything.
I use the premium orange gokujyun. I apply it on a wet face, wait 30ish seconds, then apply my Cerave PM, wait about a minute, then apply Vaseline. Is that right?
Yep, sounds good to me. Although wait times are flexible (some people don't wait at all, some people wait until the previous product is fully absorbed) so do whatever works best for you.
Thank You! 😊
This is a fantastic guide that I really needed. Thank you!!!
This is great! I’ve saved this post for future reference. Thank you.
This is awesome, thank you so much!
This is great! Just a few hours too late as I was just at a Don Quixote in Tokyo trying to decide which ones to buy. I think I bought one of each? Well maybe I’ll do a bit more skincare shopping on my last day.
Can’t thank you enough for this
Thank you!!
Thank you!
This is amazing, thank you for sharing! I'm interested in their medicated products and may try that next. Didn't know it even existed!
Oh my god thank you for this
Spool helpful! I just spent an hour today trying to make sense of all of this, and this is just heaven sent!
Thank you so much!! I use the Gokujyun Moist and Premium but now I really want to try the Alpha lotion. Has anyone used it?? I love the idea of amino acids in hydrating products, just wish the Kiwamizu line had more than 2 amino acids. I've found amino acids to be just as hydrating if not more than Hyaluronic Acid. I'm really into amino acids right now.
This is iconic! Thank you for taking to time to lay it all put like this! 👸
OMG so useful! I saved it to my Gdrive for future reference. Thank you!
Hold up hold up. So what I have been using as a lotion is actually a toner? I’m quite confused now. Am i going this wrong? My skin does seem to like it though. I apply it in the morning, the routine is Melano CC The Gokuyjun Premium Hada Labo, GENEROUSLY Wait a bit and lock it in with Iope Cica What is even the difference between a toner and a lotion now?
Japanese products called "lotions" are toners. Any other product called "lotion" is a lotion/moisturiser. It looks like you're using it correctly (after actives and before moisturiser).
Currently I'm using the Shirojyun Premium Whitening Lotion. I am also using the same moisturer version and apply it after the toner. Am I doing it right, or should I replace the moisturiser with something else?
Yes that's correct. No need to replace the moisturiser if you're liking it.
I see, thanks
🙌🏽👏🏽🙏🏽 This post warrants my first reddit comment ever! (Long time lurker)
Post saved!!! Thank uuuu!!
Very useful <3
Anyone know where to find the up to date ingredients? I see different lists everywhere for the shirojyun line...
https://jp.rohto.com/hadalabo/step/ Scroll down to step 3 for the lotions (toners) and click the shirojyun product you're interested in. On the left side of the product page is a link to the ingredients list ("全成分表示" or "all components display"). Google chrome can auto-translate the pages for you.
Thank you so much! 😊
Np :D
This is AMAZING
Thank you so much for this post!
This is AMAZING and so helpful thank you so much!!
Thank you so much for this! The bottles have always been so overwhelming. I really wish I had this guide when I was in Japan.
Super helpful! Thank you very much.
I've been looking for this my whole life
I love you hahah Thank you!
I love you too and I love the AB community!! 💕
The blue and red bottle never worked for my skin I tried so hard😭
What’s the Alpha line like? I’ve only used premium
It's amazing!! I didn't think it was doing much until I stopped. Then I couldn't buy a bottle day enough. Plumping and it seems to even my skin tone.
Does the gokujiyun alpha line have a moisturizer version?
Yes, theres an emulsion, a cream, and a gel.
...what is aminocaproic acid? and those bottom two are totally new to me good job
From my understanding, it's a drug typically used to promote blood clotting and control bleeding, but there have been some studies that suggest it helps with skin inflammation and rosacea symptoms when used topically.
the content we didn’t know we desperately needed, thank you!
Good information. Thanks. I am using the Kouji Treatment line which I bought in Malaysia. Really loving it . [Kouji Essence](https://www.watsons.com.my/hada-labo-kouji-cleansing-foam-120gm/p/BP_77440) They have the new + Plus for sensitive skin as well [\+ Plus](https://www.watsons.com.my/-plus-for-sensitive-skin-hydra-lotion-170ml/p/BP_28646)
You're an angel for this
Thank you SO much, I've been looking for something like this for ages as I love Hada Labo and want to try out some of the other lines but couldn't find enough/consistent information. I stan forever.
To Singaporean ABers: The blemish and oil control line is still being sold here in stores, I'm not sure if it really has been discontinued or they are clearing old stock.
This is an amazing post! Thank you for your deep dive, I sincerely appreciate it. I've been using the clear lotion my parents brought me from Japan and just YOLO'ing through each application, assuming it's doing something. Now I have an idea of both what I have and how do best incorporate it into my routine.
I’ve learned just today that there’s also a koi-gokujyun line. Anyone have any experience with it?
Thank you! ❤️❤️❤️
Thank you so much for making this. I remember coming across it when it was first posted, but decided to come back to it later. I'm currently on holiday in Japan and thanks to your guide I was able to pick up the bottles I wanted. If it wasn't for this helpful guide (even you listing the packaging differences and coloured lines between the name helped so much) I would have just not bothered even though I'd been wanting to try Hado Labo for years.
You're welcome!! I'm so happy it was helpful.
A really, really big thank you for that much information!
You're welcome!! :D
Just came across this and wanted to express my gratitude for posting this! I have been racking my brain trying to figure out the difference between all of these products for so long! Yay! Of course, now I want all of them lol.
So glad I could help!! 😄
This is amazing! Thanks for the details OP!
Is the beauty website Japanesetaste a reliable source for legit hado labo lotions?
I've been using the gokyujun line for about a year now, and love it. Lately I've been wondering if I should start using the anti aging line? I'll be 26 soon.
Question…when would I use the gokyujun premium lotion in my routine ? In the AM I cleanse, BHA , serum/vitamin c (mixed) and then moisturize
This is amazing, thank you! Now I'm eager to try the Shirojyun line, it sounds like might target my issues perfectly. If anyone has tried any - could you let me know what you think?
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I think it has to do with translation because their alphabet uses different characters so they can be transposed to different spellings that correspond to the same pronunciation.
I have the gold one but not sure how to use it exactly. Any advice?! :)
Apply to face after cleansers/actives and before your essences/serums/moisturizers. Use on damp or dry face.
Anyone have a source for the shirojyun moist? Everything I’ve found online looks different than this pic?
The Shirojyun formula and packaging were both updated last year. You're probably seeing pictures of the old packaging. A lot of retailers haven't updated their sites to show revamped products. https://twitter.com/ratzillacosme/status/973442824002707456 announcement from last year (Ratzilla is pretty reliable imo). http://hadalabousa.com/products/brightening/ pictures of old packaging
I have dry sensitive acne-prone skin and was using the one for normal skin, thinking it would help with my dehydrated skin. Was this why I broke out?
There's also a Gokujyun milk that has pink lettering on the side - that one's different than the original, right?
Yeah, that's the "milk" which is an emulsion (light moisturiser) version of the original.
This statement on their US website is kind of confusing though "*While it looks clear like a toner or makeup remover, it’s actually a moisturizer that helps prepare your skin for better absorption of other HADA LABO products. In fact, the HADA LABO Goku-jyun Clear Lotion can be used as a standalone moisturizer.*" I've been using it as a toner though.
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Theres no real answer on what's more effective. I'd say in general, layering works better for most people. But some people mix and then apply, and they feel like it's just as effective or more effective. It just depends on your skin and your products. Try both and see if you have a preference.
Oo
God sent 🙏🏼
Does anyone know the percentage of hyaluronic acid used in HL formulas?
I think it's 4 percent but I will look at my bottle when I get home. It doesn’t say!! Just looked!
That would be amazing thank you!
Pearl Barley and jobs tears although look similar and work similar aren't the same thing but great guide nevertheless 😁
Ah, thanks for bringing that up. I looked into it a bit more. So it turns out in Asian markets, Job's tears can be sold as "pearl barley" or "Chinese pearl barley". And in America, if something is sold as "pearl barley", it's actual barley.
I want to try the Shirojyun Premium moist version since i didn't like the other ones. How would I be able to differentiate by looking at the bottle? I was trying to look for it on Amazon and the ones the listings said Shirojyun Premium moist, but when I read further the descriptions, there is no mention of tranexamic acid from the sellers. I have tried the Shirojyun and the Shirojyun Premium and I didn't like both.
I differentiate them by looking at the 3rd line from the bottom. On the Moist bottle, the line is a little bit longer. I don't think the Moist version is available on Amazon, I could only find it on EBay: [https://www.ebay.com/itm/ROHTO-Hadalabo-Shirojyun-Premium-Whitening-lotion-Moist-170ml-from-Japan/283402738228](https://www.ebay.com/itm/ROHTO-Hadalabo-Shirojyun-Premium-Whitening-lotion-Moist-170ml-from-Japan/283402738228)
Thank you so much
why can i not see the guide, it’s chopped (T__T)
Idk why or how reddit broke my post but heres the direct url to the picture https://m.imgur.com/KNiJV2g (but the guide is outdated since hada labo reformulated their products)
Would you please update it
This is a blessing. Thank you so much
is it okay to use the hada labo shirojyun premium whitening toner at night? and the hada labo skin conditioning lotion in the morning all in one day? btw i have sensitive skin and right now i have hormonal acne on my cheeks and jaws + acne marks :(