Lotion (aka softener or toner) is quintessential to a basic skincare routine in Japan. I even dare say that it’s the backbone since skipping this step is never posed as an option for those wanting to keep routine quick and simple.
You use it to remove any lingering impurities post-cleansing and provide a base layer of hydration. Many also give skin additional benefits such as helping to target hyperpigmentation, soothe irritation, or smooth roughness.
Large-format lotions are especially popular amongst the budget-conscious since you get a half-litre size bottle for less than ¥1,000! You can use it generously all over the face and body without feeling you’re wasting precious product. Stick a trigger spray head (or decant into a spray bottle) in there and you have yourself a lovely refreshing mist.
I’ve compared the top 6 most popular large-format lotions on RatzillaCosme so you can see what the differences and similarities are, whether you’re looking to switch or try one for the first time.
Technical Specifications Comparison
Here are all the specs in a handy chart — it’s best viewed in landscape mode on a bigger screen size (i.e. iPad or bigger). Click on the product page link for detailed information (including the full ingredients list) on each product.
PRICE | ¥650 / 500ml | ¥640 / 400ml | ¥840 / 500ml | ¥650 / 500ml | ¥720 / 500ml | ¥925 / 500ml |
SKIN TYPE | Combo, Dry, Sensitive | All | Combo, Dry, Sensitive | All | All | All |
TARGETS | Dry, dehydrated skin | ‣ Large Pores, Dryness | Dryness | Dryness | Dryness, Roughness | Discolourations, Dull skin, Dryness |
KEY POINTS | Hydration, Maintaining skin barrier | Light Hydration,
Pore Care,
Soothing | Hydration,
Improving skin clarity | Light hydration, Soothing | Softening, Hydration, Pore Care | Dark spot prevention,
Brightening,
Hydration |
KEY INGREDIENTS | Ceramides, Amino Acids, Hyaluronic Acids, Job's Tears | Job's Tears, Vit. C | ‣ Sake, Amino Acids, Arbutin, Ceramide, Placental Protein | ‣ Job's Tears, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizinate | ‣ Sake, Sake Kasu, Chamomile, Hyaluronic Acid, Honey, Artichoke Leaf | ‣ Sake, Hyaluronic Acids, Job's Tears, Tranexamic Acid, Vit. C |