Your Hada Labo Skincare Guide: Which Line is Right for You?

If you're into Japanese skincare, you've probably come across Hada Labo. This cult-favorite brand is famous for its simple packaging, budget-friendly pricing, and effective, science-backed formulas. But once you start looking through all the different Hada Labo products, it can get a little confusing. What’s the difference between Gokujyun and Shirojyun? And which one is best for your skin type?

Let’s break down each Hada Labo line so you can find the perfect match for your skin. Whether you're dealing with dryness, acne, dark spots, or early signs of aging, there's a formula for you.

Quick note: In Japan, what we call "toners" in the U.S. are labeled as "lotions." They’re not moisturizers, but lightweight, watery hydrating steps you use after cleansing and before serums or creams.

💧 Gokujyun (Moist) Line

Best for: Dry, sensitive, or dehydrated skin
Bottle look: White bottle with a blue label and blue cap

This is the original Hada Labo line and a staple in Japanese skincare routines. It’s centered around deep hydration using multiple types of hyaluronic acid to help skin retain moisture at every layer.

Popular products:

Hada Labo Gokujyun Hyaluronic Acid Lotion

Hada Labo Gokujyun Face Wash

Why I like it:
It’s incredibly gentle and instantly softens my skin. It’s lightweight, easy to layer, and works well with any routine — especially if you’re new to Hada Labo or want simple, dependable hydration.

💦 Gokujyun Premium Line

Best for: Very dry, dehydrated, or mature skin
Bottle look: White bottle with a gold label and gold cap

This line takes hydration to the next level with 7 types of hyaluronic acid. The Hada Labo Gokujyun Premium Lotion has a richer, essence-like texture that deeply moisturizes and leaves skin looking plump and refreshed.

Popular products:

Why I like it:
When my skin feels tight or dull, this is what I reach for. It gives a lasting glow and leaves my face feeling smooth and nourished without feeling heavy.

✨ Shirojyun (Brightening) Line

Best for: Dullness, acne scars, or uneven tone
Bottle look: White bottle with a blue label and white cap

This line helps brighten the skin and fade dark spots using arbutin and vitamin C derivatives. In Japan, “whitening” refers to brightening and targeting discoloration — not changing your natural skin tone. It’s all about a healthy, radiant look.

Popular products:

Hada Labo Whitening Lotion
Hada Labo Whitening Essence In
Hada Labo Shirojyun Face Cream

Why I like it:
It gives me a healthy glow and helps fade old acne marks, all while keeping my skin calm and hydrated. It’s brightening that doesn’t feel harsh, which I love.

✨ Shirojyun Premium Line

Best for: Stubborn dark spots, hyperpigmentation, or melasma
Bottle look: White bottle with blue writing and a gold cap

This version of Shirojyun includes tranexamic acid, a well-known brightening ingredient that helps treat more stubborn pigmentation issues while still delivering moisture.

Popular products:

Why I like it:
It targets dark spots more effectively than the original while staying gentle. I saw results without the irritation I’ve had from other brightening products.

🍃 Blemish & Oil Control Line

Best for: Oily or acne-prone skin
Bottle look: White bottle with a green label

This line focuses on clearing breakouts and balancing oil using salicylic acid and hatomugi (Job’s tears) extract. It’s gentle, refreshing, and designed not to strip your skin barrier.

Popular products:

Hada Labo Acne Care Lotion

Why I like it:
Most acne products dry me out, but this one doesn’t. It helps calm breakouts and leaves my skin feeling clean but still hydrated.

❤️ Alpha (Aging Care) Line

Best for: Fine lines, early signs of aging, or loss of firmness
Bottle look: White bottle with a red label and gold accents

This anti-aging line includes retinol derivatives, collagen, and hyaluronic acid to support elasticity and smooth texture. It’s a great option if you’re starting to add aging care into your routine.

Popular products:

Hada Labo Gokujyun Alpha Lotion

Why I like it:
It helps soften lines and gives my skin a firmer feel, without the irritation I usually get from retinol. A great pick for sensitive skin starting to see early aging signs.

How to Use Hada Labo in Your Routine

Cleanse with a Hada Labo facial cleanser like the Foaming Cleanser or Face Wash
Hydrate with a Hada Labo lotion such as Gokujyun or Shirojyun
Moisturize with a gel cream or face cream
Target concerns with an essence, eye cream, or anti-aging product
Protect your skin with sunscreen during the day

Tip: Apply your lotion to damp skin for better absorption and a softer finish.

Where to Shop Authentic Hada Labo Skincare

At Yukio Beauty, we carry a range of Hada Labo products, 100% authentic and shipped from the U.S. Whether you’re looking for deep hydration, gentle brightening, or anti-aging care, we’ve got you covered.

👉 Shop Hada Labo at Yukio Beauty