Hydroquinone cream
Hydroquinone (topical)
Hydroquinone is a cosmetic ingredient rather than a medicine in Japan: 1–2% products are sold in drugstores and online, and cosmetic dermatology clinics provide 4–5% creams, often with tretinoin. For melasma, Japanese dermatologists also use oral tranexamic acid, which is unusual abroad.
- Prescription status
- Not approved in Japan
- Over the counter
- Not sold OTC
- Bringing it into Japan
- ✓ 1 month Rx / 2 months OTC
- Names abroad
- Tri-Luma (combination) · 멜라논
Over the counter
Not approved as a medicine. Low concentrations (about 2%) are sold as cosmetics in Japan; 4–5% creams are dispensed by cosmetic clinics at full cost.
Prescription products in Japan
0 productsProducts on Japan's national drug price list. Prescription only: a clinic visit is needed, and pharmacies may substitute a generic with the same ingredient.
| Dosage forms |
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Product names are shown in Japanese, exactly as printed on the package and the prescription. Show this page at the pharmacy.
All listed products (0) · Drug price list as of 2026-08-12
Bringing it into Japan
Not approved in Japan, so it cannot be prescribed or bought here. Bringing your own supply for personal use follows the normal rule: up to 1 month of prescription medicine without paperwork.
Names abroad
| US | Tri-Luma (combination), Hydroquinone 4% |
|---|---|
| Korea | 멜라논, 도미나크림 |
| China | 千白 |
| Taiwan | 對苯二酚藥膏 |
Sources
- Health Insurance Claims Review & Reimbursement Services — Drug master (NHI drug price list) shinryohoshu.mhlw.go.jp — 2026-08-12
- Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare — Bringing medicines for personal use into Japan mhlw.go.jp
This page describes how a medicine is regulated and sold in Japan. It is not medical advice and does not cover dosing for your situation; follow your doctor's and pharmacist's instructions.