Must-buy Japanese OTC cosmetics in summer: BB beauty supplements, sunscreen, and mosquito repellent are all super popular

Text by MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team
 
Taiwanese travelers love purchasing Japanese OTC cosmetics, snacks (food), and electronics when visiting Japan. Recently, fueled by budget airlines, many travelers not only visit Japan more frequently but also find restocking there a common part of their trips, and even make it a habit. This has led to Taiwanese tourists not just buying more for themselves, but also accepting requests from friends and family to shop on their behalf. From convenience stores to drugstores, and from electronics shops to duty-free stores, various popular Japanese OTC products are often out of stock. Among them, the vitamin tablets nicknamed "BB" have become a must-buy household essential for many. With the arrival of the scorching summer, BB’s beauty skin series along with other must-have sunscreen and moisturizing products have become hot items, while mosquito repellent sprays have also become essential OTC products for families with kids.

Essential summer OTC product shopping list:
 
 
1. Chocola BB Lucent C
 
When summer comes, everyone focuses on maintaining beautiful skin. Chocola BB Lucent C is rich in vitamin C with antioxidant properties, plus L-Cysteine which helps fade spots and repair sun-exposed skin. Vitamin B complex promotes blood circulation, and Chocola BB Lucent C contains 100mg of vitamin E, which not only boosts circulation but also combats oxidation and fades melanin. The B20?6 component further supports healthy skin. Many travelers who enjoy shopping for OTC products in Japan are familiar with Chocola BB. This beauty-boosting and brightening product, Chocola BB Lucent C, is a must-buy for women who love beauty and seek fair, clear skin in summer.

2. SANA Soy Milk Beauty Lotion
 
In summer, hydration is as important as whitening. Going in and out of air-conditioned rooms and being exposed to high temperatures outdoors can dry out your skin or cause oil-water imbalance. A good moisturizing lotion is essential for daily life, and the SANA Soy Milk Beauty Lotion is one that many recommend as a must-buy in Japan. The SANA Soy Milk skincare line is developed using fermented soy milk technology, and claims to use non-GMO soybeans, highlighting the excellent moisturizing effect of soy isoflavones. Its four lines (Q10, whitening, firming & moisturizing, and hydration) can meet the needs of different users.

3. KOSE SUNCUT Sunscreen Spray
 
The SUNCUT sunscreen series has always been a popular summer item. In addition to umbrellas, sun hats, and long-sleeved clothing, sunscreen is a must-have for those focused on sun protection, and the spray version is especially favored. Its ease of application makes it ideal for areas that are hard to reach with lotion, such as the tops of feet, back, and hair — spots that are often overlooked. For example, hair can easily become dry and brittle due to prolonged sun exposure, which is why the SUNCUT sunscreen spray is so widely used and loved by consumers and sun protection fans. Its waterproof properties are also highly praised. Limited-edition packaging co-branded with Disney often sells out quickly, making it a must-buy OTC product in summer.

4. VAPE Mosquito Repellent Spray
 
The biggest fear in summer is mosquito bites, especially for parents with young children, who prepare mosquito repellents to protect themselves and their little ones. In Japan, the very popular and frequently brought-back OTC mosquito repellent—VAPE mosquito repellent spray—is a big hit. A refreshing, non-greasy spray is one of the key factors people consider when choosing anti-mosquito products. It successfully keeps mosquitoes away and also relieves itching, earning strong recommendations from users. In addition to the regular version, there's also a limited-edition Hello Kitty design that has fans rushing to buy it.