The Top 5 Best Antiperspirant Deodorants You Can Get in Japan
In Japan, you'll find plenty of pleasant-smelling deodorants, with roll-on perfume types being the most popular. However, these products are mostly designed to mask odor rather than stop sweating. If you're used to antiperspirants that reduce both sweat and odor, finding the right product can be tricky. Antiperspirants, which prevent sweating instead of just covering up the smell, are harder to find in Japan.
Effective Antiperspirants are Classified as Qusai-Drugs
Quasi-drugs (医薬部外品) are products that contain a certain concentration of medicinal ingredients and ingredients that have been approved by the Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare that effectively treat what they're advertised to do. Compared to pharmaceuticals (prescribed by a doctor), the effects are milder, but compared to cosmetics, they are more effective. Unsurprisingly, a lot of Japanese deodorants are classed as cosmetic items. When looking for an effective antiperspirant, you want one that is classified as a quasi-drug, indicating it has the ingredients in it to be effective (often Aluminum Chlorohydrate and Isopropyl Methylphenol in Japanese antiperspirants).
1. Ban Antiperspirant Deodarants
This brand is widely available at most drugstores in Japan and offers a variety of forms. If you prefer stick-type deodorants over liquid roll-ons, this brand might be a good fit, as they offer many anti-sweat formulas in stick format. They have different types for various needs, but the ones to look for are in their sweat-blocking series. The key ingredients in this waterproof (and sweatproof) line are effective at minimizing sweat and keeping you dry throughout the day.
Key Ingredients
Aluminum Chlorohydrate (antiperspirant), Isopropyl Methylphenol (antiseptic)
2. QUADAYS Medicated Deodorant Gel (薬用デオドラントジェル)
This fragrance-free, gel-type deodorant comes in a convenient pump bottle and is priced higher than many drugstore alternatives at ¥2700 for a 40ml bottle, which should last around two months. While the product is labeled "medicated," its ingredient list, featuring aluminum chlorohydrate, is similar to that of other standard antiperspirants. The gel formula is clear, non-staining, and absorbs well into the skin.
Key Ingredients
Aluminum Chlorohydrate (antiperspirant), Isopropyl Methylphenol (antiseptic)
3. Ag Premium Deodorant Spray (Agプレミアム デオドラントスプレー)
This drugstore antiperspirant is in spray format. It has a powder finish, staying on the skin throughout the day. The product is well-received for its fast-drying, non-sticky formula, and some users appreciate its long-lasting effect, especially in hot and humid conditions. For those concerned with fragrance, there's also a fragrance-free version that can suit individuals with sensitivities. Overall, it's a solid option if you're looking for a light antiperspirant in Japan, but it may not perform exactly like Western brands in terms of heavy-duty sweat prevention.
Key Ingredients
Aluminum Chlorohydrate (antiperspirant), Isopropyl Methylphenol (antiseptic), Zinc Oxide (prevents skin irratation)
4. Mentholatum Refrea Deodorant Cream (メンソレータム リフレア デオドラントクリーム)
This antiperspirant from Rohto Pharmaceutical features two active antibacterial ingredients designed to combat the bacteria that cause sweat-related odors. It comes in a cream or lotion format, typically applied by hand. However, we don't recommend this product for individuals with sensitive skin or those prone to dermatitis, as Benzalkonium Chloride, while an effective antiseptic, is known to irritate the skin in some people.
Key Ingredients
Benzalkonium Chloride (antiseptic), Isopropyl Methylphenol (antiseptic), Aluminum Chlorohydrate (antiperspirant)
5. Perspirex
Perspirex products are among the strongest antiperspirants available in Japan, with a high concentration of 8% aluminum chlorohydrate. Priced at ¥4620 per container, this U.K product line isn't available at regular drugstores. Instead, you'll need a prescription from a doctor or to purchase directly from a beauty clinic after a consultation. Perspirex isn't classified as a quasi-drug and lacks official classification by the Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare. Due to its potency, it's recommended only for extreme cases of sweat and odor. Unlike regular deodorants, Perspirex is applied at night following a specific routine. Be cautious when buying online, as counterfeit products are common.
Key Ingredients
Aluminum Chlorohydrate (antiperspirant)