Translation guide
In Japanese, 'face lotion' most commonly refers to a liquid skincare product applied after cleansing and before moisturizer, known as 化粧水 (keshōsui). This is distinct from Western 'lotion' which is typically a thicker moisturizer. The guide clarifies the Japanese skincare routine and product names.
The most common meaning: a liquid skincare product used after washing the face, to hydrate and prep skin before moisturizer. This is the standard 'face lotion' in Japan.
The standard term for a watery, toner-like face lotion used in Japanese skincare. Applied after cleansing and before emulsion/moisturizer.
After washing your face, use a face lotion to condition your skin.
This face lotion is light and refreshing, perfect for summer.
Often used interchangeably with 化粧水, especially on product labels. Can also refer to thicker Western-style lotions, so context matters.
In Japan, ローション can mean both watery toner and creamy moisturizer. Check the product description.
This lotion has a thicker texture and is good for dry skin.
A rich, creamy product used to moisturize the face, typical of Western 'lotion'. In Japanese skincare, this is usually called 乳液 or クリーム.
A milky, lightweight moisturizer used after 化粧水 in the Japanese skincare routine. Closer to a Western lotion in consistency.
After the face lotion, apply emulsion to lock in moisture.
A thicker cream moisturizer, often used at night or for very dry skin. Can be called 'face cream' in English.
Literally 'moisturizing lotion', sometimes used for thicker, Western-style lotions. Not as common as 乳液 or クリーム.
A spray-on product for refreshing or setting makeup, sometimes called 'face lotion' in English.
In Japanese skincare, the order is typically: 化粧水 (watery lotion) → 乳液 (milky emulsion) → クリーム (cream). 化粧水 hydrates, 乳液 locks in moisture, and クリーム provides extra richness. Western 'lotion' often corresponds to 乳液 or クリーム, not 化粧水.
Face lotion for hydration, emulsion for oil replenishment.
If you ask for 'ローション' at a Japanese drugstore, you might be directed to body lotion or even a sexual lubricant. Always specify 化粧水 for the watery toner-type product, or 乳液/クリーム for moisturizer.
冬は化粧水と乳液だけでは足りないので、クリームも使います。
In winter, just face lotion and emulsion aren't enough, so I also use cream.
This moisturizing lotion absorbs well without feeling sticky.
I'm looking for a face mist that can be used over makeup.