WABISABI GUIDE
Our recommendations
for Acne skin
Guide to Managing Acne: Japanese Skincare Recommendations
Acne can be a frustrating skin condition, but with a gentle and consistent skincare routine, it's possible to improve your skin's appearance and health. Japan is known for its innovative and effective skincare products, many of which incorporate natural, soothing ingredients. If you're looking for new ways to manage acne, this guide will provide you with tips inspired by Japanese skincare practices.

1. Cleanse Gently, but Thoroughly
One of the key principles of Japanese skincare is double cleansing, which helps remove both makeup and impurities without harsh scrubbing. The process involves:
Step 1: Use an oil-based cleanser to dissolve makeup, sunscreen, and excess sebum.
Step 2: Follow with a gentle foaming cleanser to wash away any remaining dirt and oil.
Look for cleansers with soothing ingredients like green tea or rice extract to prevent skin irritation. Avoid products with sulfates or strong fragrances, which can exacerbate acne.
2. Exfoliate with Enzyme Peels
Harsh scrubs can irritate acne-prone skin, causing further inflammation. Instead, try enzyme peels that gently remove dead skin cells and unclog pores.
Japanese enzyme peels often contain natural fruit enzymes such as papain (from papaya) or bromelain (from pineapple), which help smooth the skin without causing redness. One popular example is DET Clear Bright & Peel Peeling Jelly, a cult-favorite gentle exfoliator.
3. Use Toners with Anti-Inflammatory Ingredients
After cleansing, applying a toner can help balance your skin’s pH and prepare it for the next steps. Japanese toners, also known as "lotions," often feature ingredients like:
Houttuynia Cordata (Dokudami): Reduces inflammation and calms irritated skin.
Yomogi: thanks to its strong soothing and healing properties, effectively supports skin regeneration and lightens discolorations. It also has antihistamine properties, which makes it ideal for people struggling with allergic reactions.
Vitamin C: brightens discolorations, eliminates the first signs of aging, neutralizes free radicals and improves blood and lymph circulation in the skin
4. Hydrate with Lightweight Moisturizers
Even oily and acne-prone skin needs moisture. Lack of hydration can lead to increased oil production, which may worsen acne. Opt for a light, water-based moisturizer with non-comedogenic ingredients, such as:
Hyaluronic acid: Attracts and retains moisture without clogging pores.
Squalane: A lightweight oil that helps balance sebum production.
Ceramides: Strengthen the skin barrier and prevent moisture loss.
Products like Hada Labo Gokujyun Hyaluronic Acid Lotion are widely recommended for providing deep hydration without leaving a greasy residue.
5. Protect Your Skin with Sunscreen
Sun exposure can darken acne scars and cause further skin damage. It’s crucial to wear sunscreen daily, even if you have acne-prone skin. Look for lightweight, non-comedogenic sunscreens with SPF 30 or higher. Many Japanese sunscreens, such as Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence, offer a gel-like texture that absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy finish.

Avoid Overloading Your Skin with Products
In Japan, skincare routines often emphasize "skin minimalism," using only essential products tailored to your skin’s needs. Overloading your skin with too many active ingredients (like retinol, vitamin C, and exfoliants) can lead to irritation and worsen acne. Start with a simple routine and introduce new products slowly.
Address Stress and Lifestyle Factors
Acne can sometimes be influenced by factors beyond skincare. Consider the following tips to support your skin from within:
Diet: Reduce your intake of sugar, dairy, and processed foods, which may trigger breakouts in some people.
Stress management: Practices like meditation, deep breathing, or gentle exercise can help reduce stress-related acne.
Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to support skin repair and overall health.
Regularly Replace Towels and Pillowcases
Bacteria and oil can build up on your towels, pillowcases, and makeup brushes, potentially leading to breakouts.
Wash your pillowcases and face towels frequently, ideally every few days.
Use a clean, soft cloth to gently pat your face dry instead of rubbing.
Be Patient and Consistent
Improving acne takes time. Japanese skincare emphasizes patience and consistency over quick fixes. Stick to your routine, make gradual adjustments based on your skin’s response, and consult a dermatologist if needed. Remember, healthy skin is a long-term investment.
Our recommended Japanese brands to prevent Acne:

Melano CC
Discover Melano CC's range of Vitamin C-infused skincare, expertly formulated to target dark spots, uneven skin tone, and acne scars. Achieve a radiant, clear complexion with powerful antioxidants and skin-loving ingredients. Trusted in Japan, Melano CC products help brighten, hydrate, and rejuvenate, delivering visible results for all skin types.

Toumei Shirohada
Toumei Shirohada is a Japanese skincare brand designed to help you achieve a translucent, radiant complexion. The brand's name, which translates to "clear white skin," reflects its commitment to brightening and evening out skin tone with gentle, effective formulas.

CHOI!
Choi! by Kracie is a medicinal skincare series designed to address common skin concerns for people in their teens and twenties. With two targeted lines, Choi! focuses on acne care, pore refinement, and overall skin health.

Top natural Ingredients for Acne-Prone Skin
CICA
Centella Asiatica, also known as Gotu Kola or Cica, is a powerful, plant-based ingredient that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine across Asia. In recent years, it has gained popularity in skincare for its impressive ability to calm and repair sensitive, acne-prone skin.
Yomogi
Yomogi (Artemisia princeps), also known as Japanese Mugwort, is a powerful herbal ingredient widely used in traditional Japanese and Korean skincare. Known for its soothing and purifying properties, Yomogi is particularly beneficial for acne-prone and sensitive skin.
Dokudami
Dokudami (Houttuynia cordata), also known as Chameleon Plant, is a powerful herb widely used in traditional Japanese and Korean skincare for its anti-inflammatory, detoxifying, and antibacterial properties. This plant is particularly beneficial for acne-prone and sensitive skin due to its ability to calm irritation and promote skin healing.

We also recommend...
Japanese Skin Care Set – Acne Skin, designed specifically for acne-prone skin. This set offers a full range of products to create a complete skincare regimen, featuring gentle, effective solutions that help soothe, purify, and heal your skin.
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