Tretinoin cream (Retin-A)
Tretinoin (topical)
Tretinoin cream has never been approved as a medicine in Japan, so it is only available through cosmetic clinics as an off-label, self-paid treatment, typically ¥5,000–10,000 per tube. You may bring your own supply for personal use under the 2-month rule; it is not controlled.
- Prescription status
- Not approved in Japan
- Over the counter
- Not sold OTC
- Bringing it into Japan
- ✓ 1 month Rx / 2 months OTC
- Names abroad
- Retin-A
Over the counter
Not approved in Japan. Cosmetic dermatology clinics compound or import it and sell it at full cost, usually paired with hydroquinone. Adapalene (Differin) is the insured alternative for acne.
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 | Retin-A, Renova |
|---|---|
| UK | Retin-A |
| Korea | 스티바A, 레틴A |
| China | 迪维霜 |
| Taiwan | 蕾婷A |
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.