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Japanese air gets dry in winter, and new skincare lands in stores right on time. Two November releases are easy to pick up during a trip: HACCO, a fermented skincare line sold only at Hands, and a limited 20%-larger Aqualabel gel cream from Shiseido at drugstores.
Shopping for makeup in Japan this winter? Here are three new releases you can find at Japanese drugstores and variety shops in November 2026 — a jam-textured lip balm from hince, new Laka tints (including a Japan-only mini) and a limited-edition CEZANNE palette for under ¥1,000.
From November 1, 2026, tax-free shopping in Japan works differently. Instead of buying without tax at the register, you pay the full price first and get the tax back after customs confirms you are taking the items out of Japan. Here is what changes and how to make sure you get your refund.