Japanese skincare is known for its thoughtful formulations, simple routines, and focus on maintaining healthy, hydrated skin. One brand that embodies this approach is Hada Labo, a Japanese skincare favorite that has earned a loyal following for its effective, hydration-focused products at accessible prices. From its iconic Hyaluronic Acid Lotions to its rich moisturizing creams and versatile all-in-one gels, Hada Labo makes it easy to build a skincare routine around one essential principle: giving your skin the moisture it needs without unnecessary complexity.
The History of Hada Labo: From Japanese Pharmacy to Global Skincare Favorite
Hada Labo was launched in 2004 by Rohto Pharmaceutical, a Japanese company with roots dating back to 1899. Originally established as a pharmacy, Rohto expanded into healthcare and skincare over the decades, bringing its pharmaceutical research and formulation expertise into beauty.
The name Hada Labo reflects the brand's focus on skin. In Japanese, hada means skin, while labo is associated with a laboratory. Together, the name captures the brand's science-focused approach to skincare.
From the beginning, Hada Labo developed its identity around a philosophy of simplicity: use ingredients that serve a clear purpose and focus on what skin needs most. Rather than building complicated routines around numerous products, the brand emphasizes effective moisturization and straightforward formulations.
Hyaluronic acid became a signature ingredient, helping establish Hada Labo as a go-to brand for people seeking softer, smoother, more hydrated-looking skin.
Today, Hada Labo is recognized internationally as one of Japan's best-known drugstore skincare brands.
What Makes Hada Labo Special?
A focus on Hyaluronic Acid
One thing that distinguishes Hada Labo is its long-standing commitment to researching and developing different forms of hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid is a humectant, meaning it attracts water. However, different forms can have different properties, including molecular size, water-binding behavior, and affinity for the skin's surface. By combining different forms, Hada Labo aims to provide complementary moisturizing benefits rather than relying on a single type of hyaluronic acid.
Simple, purposeful formulations
Hada Labo follows a philosophy of including what the skin needs without adding unnecessary complexity. Many products are formulated without fragrance, and some ranges also omit ethanol, colorants, parabens, or mineral oil. Formulations vary by product, so it's always worth checking the individual ingredient list. This straightforward approach makes the brand appealing to people who prefer uncomplicated skincare routines.
Different formulas for different skin types
Not everyone needs the same level of moisture. Some people prefer lightweight lotions that layer easily, while others need richer products to help relieve dryness. Hada Labo offers different textures and hydration levels, allowing you to choose products that suit your skin's needs and the season.
Everyday skincare at an accessible price
Hada Labo demonstrates why Japanese drugstore skincare has become so popular. The brand offers practical, hydration-focused products without requiring a luxury skincare budget.
For anyone interested in Japanese beauty, it's an approachable way to discover the benefits of a well-designed skincare routine.
Hada Labo Products to Shop at Rei Cosmetics
Rei Cosmetics carries a curated selection of Hada Labo products, including the popular Gokujyun and Shirojyun lines. Here are the key products to know and how to choose between them.
Hada Labo Gokujyun Hyaluronic Lotion Moist
Best for: Everyday hydration and normal to dry skin
The Gokujyun Hyaluronic Lotion Moist is one of Hada Labo's signature products. In Japanese skincare, a lotion is often a hydrating step applied after cleansing, rather than the creamy lotion or moisturizer many American shoppers might expect.
This lightweight, hydrating formula helps replenish moisture after cleansing and leaves skin feeling soft and supple. It can be layered under an emulsion or cream to build a routine that provides the right level of hydration for your skin.
Why we love it: It's a versatile everyday hydration step that fits easily into a simple morning or evening routine.
Hada Labo Gokujyun Premium Hyaluronic Lotion
Best for: Skin that needs extra hydration
If your skin tends to feel tight, dehydrated, or rough, consider the Gokujyun Premium Hyaluronic Lotion. This richer version of the classic Gokujyun lotion is designed to deliver more intensive, lasting moisture. Its more substantial texture makes it a popular choice for people who want a more nourishing hydration step, especially when their skin feels dry from seasonal weather or indoor heating.
Apply it after cleansing and before your moisturizer. You can also layer it with the regular lotion if your skin benefits from additional hydration, although one lotion may be enough for many routines.
Why we love it: It offers a more intensive hydration option without requiring a complicated multi-step routine.
Hada Labo Gokujyun Hyaluronic Gel Cream
Best for: Locking in moisture with a lightweight cream texture
Hydration is important, but helping your skin retain that moisture is equally essential. A moisturizer adds another layer of care to help reduce moisture loss.
The Gokujyun Hyaluronic Gel Cream offers a gel-cream texture that combines a refreshing feel with moisturizing comfort. It's a useful option if you want more moisture than a hydrating lotion provides but prefer a texture that doesn't feel as heavy as a traditional rich cream.
Use it as the final moisturizing step in your routine, adjusting the amount according to your skin's needs.
Why we love it: Its gel-cream texture makes it an appealing choice for people who want moisture without an overly heavy finish.
Hada Labo Gokujyun Perfect Gel
Best for: A streamlined moisturizing routine
Prefer fewer steps? The Gokujyun Perfect Gel is an all-in-one moisturizing product designed to simplify your skincare routine.
Its rich gel texture helps hydrate the skin and can serve as a convenient alternative to layering several separate moisturizing products. It's particularly useful when you want a straightforward routine or need an easy nighttime moisturizing step.
Depending on your skin type, you may still want to use a separate hydrating lotion underneath or a sunscreen on top during the day.
Why we love it: It makes a hydration-focused routine easier, especially for anyone who prefers a minimalist approach to skincare.
Hada Labo Shirojyun Hydrating Lotion Moist
Best for: Hydration and a more even-looking complexion
While Gokujyun focuses primarily on hydration, the Shirojyun line is designed around moisturizing and brightening care.
The Shirojyun Hydrating Lotion Moist is a good option for people who want to combine hydration with care for uneven-looking skin tone. Depending on the specific formulation, the Shirojyun range includes ingredients intended to help prevent excess melanin production and the formation of dark spots and freckles.
Why we love it: It offers another way to approach everyday hydration if your skincare goals also include a more radiant-looking complexion.
How to Build a Hada Labo Skincare Routine
One of the best things about Hada Labo is how easily it can be incorporated into your daily routine. Choose products based on your skin's hydration needs and add steps only when they serve a purpose.
For a simple everyday routine
Morning
Cleanse your face.
Apply Gokujyun Hyaluronic Lotion Moist.
Follow with a moisturizer if needed.
Finish with broad-spectrum sunscreen.
Evening
Cleanse your face.
Apply Gokujyun Hyaluronic Lotion Moist or Premium Hyaluronic Lotion.
Apply Gokujyun Hyaluronic Gel Cream or Perfect Gel to help retain moisture.
For skin that feels especially dry
Start with the Premium Hyaluronic Lotion, then follow with a moisturizing cream or gel. You can apply hydrating products to slightly damp skin and adjust the number of layers according to how your skin feels.
For a routine focused on hydration and radiance
Try the Shirojyun Hydrating Lotion Moist, followed by a moisturizer that suits your skin type. During the day, use sunscreen consistently to help prevent UV-related skin damage and the development of dark spots.
Remember that more products do not automatically mean better results. A consistent routine that suits your skin is often the most practical place to start.
Why We Love Hada Labo at Rei Cosmetics
At Rei Cosmetics, we believe great skincare should be accessible, practical, and easy to understand. Hada Labo is a wonderful example of what makes J-Beauty special: thoughtful formulations, a clear focus on skin needs, and products designed to fit into everyday life.
Whether you're new to Japanese skincare or looking for a reliable way to replenish moisture, Hada Labo offers options for different hydration needs without making your routine unnecessarily complicated.
Explore the Hada Labo collection at Rei Cosmetics