Chemical peel (salicylic, glycolic acid)
Salicylic acid / glycolic acid (chemical peel)
Japan's cosmetics rules cap acids at low concentrations, so the 2% salicylic and 10% glycolic products common in US skincare are not sold here; effective peels are done at dermatology clinics instead, often the salicylic acid macrogol peel developed in Japan. Bringing your own skincare for personal use is fine.
- Prescription status
- Prescription only
- Over the counter
- Not sold OTC
- Bringing it into Japan
- ✓ 1 month Rx / 2 months OTC
- Names abroad
- Chemical peel
Over the counter
Performed at clinics, self-paid (¥5,000–15,000 per session). OTC skincare in Japan may contain only low acid concentrations; salicylic acid over 0.2% is restricted in cosmetics.
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
Up to a 1-month supply of prescription medicine, or 2 months of OTC medicine, without any paperwork. For more, apply for a Yakkan Shoumei (import confirmation) before travel.
Getting it prescribed in Japan
Any clinic can prescribe it after a consultation. Bring the original packaging or a medication list. Use the hospital finder to find clinics with English-speaking staff or an international patient office.
Names abroad
| US | Chemical peel |
|---|---|
| UK | Chemical peel |
| Korea | 필링 |
| China | 刷酸 |
| Taiwan | 換膚 |
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.