Japanese Vitamin C Serum Guide: Melano CC and Beyond

Last updated: April 2026

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Quick Answer

• Rohto Melano CC Premium Essence (メラノCC 薬用しみ集中対策プレミアム美容液) dominates the Japanese vitamin C serum market with 5+ consecutive years as the #1 best-selling whitening serum in Japan, using active-form vitamin C (ascorbic acid) plus 3 vitamin C derivatives at under ¥1,700 (~$11 USD) (translated from Japanese) [https://jp.rohto.com/melanocc/].
• Obagi C25 Serum Neo contains 25% pure vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) — the highest concentration in any Japanese serum — at ¥11,000 (~$73 USD) for 12ml, making it the premium benchmark (translated from Japanese) [https://www.obagi.co.jp/c/c25serum-neo/].
• Japanese vitamin C serums use fundamentally different formulation approaches than Western brands — lower concentrations with better delivery systems, paired with anti-inflammatory ingredients to prevent irritation.
• My Best's 2026 lab testing ranked over 80 vitamin C serums on brightening efficacy, moisture retention, and ingredient safety, with Japanese drugstore options outperforming many premium international brands (translated from Japanese) [https://my-best.com/2915].

Vitamin C is the one ingredient that transcends skincare philosophies. Korean brands use it. French pharmacies stock it. American dermatologists prescribe it. But nobody does vitamin C quite like Japan.

The Japanese approach to vitamin C in skincare reflects the same engineering mindset they bring to cars and electronics — obsessive attention to stability, delivery, and real-world performance rather than headline-grabbing concentration numbers. While Western brands race to pack 20-30% L-ascorbic acid into serums that oxidize within weeks, Japanese formulators have spent decades developing vitamin C derivatives that remain stable for months, penetrate more efficiently, and cause less irritation.

This guide covers every tier of the Japanese vitamin C serum market — from the ¥1,000 drugstore heroes to the ¥11,000 dermatologist-grade concentrates. We translated research from @cosme reviews, My Best laboratory testing, LDK consumer reports, and Matsumoto Kiyoshi Cocokara's beauty advisor recommendations to rank them (translated from Japanese) [https://www.matsukiyococokara-online.com/useful-info/recommend/158].

For our head-to-head comparison of the two biggest names, see our dedicated Melano CC vs Obagi C comparison. And for a broader look at Japanese vitamin C serum concentrations, our best Japanese vitamin C serums: L-ascorbic acid concentrations compared article breaks down the numbers.

How Japanese Vitamin C Serums Are Different

The Stability Problem (and Japan's Solutions)

L-ascorbic acid — the pure, biologically active form of vitamin C — is notoriously unstable. It degrades when exposed to light, air, heat, and water. A freshly opened bottle of 20% L-ascorbic acid serum starts losing potency immediately. Within 2-3 months, a significant percentage has oxidized into dehydroascorbic acid, which offers minimal skincare benefits. The yellow-brown color change in your vitamin C serum? That's oxidation. You're basically applying expensive water.

Japanese formulators attacked this problem from multiple angles:

Vitamin C derivatives (ビタミンC誘導体 / bitamin C yuudoutai): These are modified forms of ascorbic acid that are inherently more stable. The most common in Japanese products:

• Ascorbyl glucoside (AA-2G / アスコルビルグルコシド) — Water-soluble, highly stable. Converts to active ascorbic acid in the skin via glucosidase enzymes. Used in Melano CC's derivative blend.
• 3-O-Ethyl ascorbic acid (VCエチル) — Water-soluble, stable, and unique because it functions as both a derivative AND active vitamin C. It doesn't need enzymatic conversion. The most advanced water-soluble derivative.
• Ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate (VCIP / ビタミンCテトライソパルミテート) — Oil-soluble. Penetrates the lipid-rich cell membrane more easily than water-soluble forms. Used in Melano CC Premium and Obagi formulations.
• Ascorbyl phosphate magnesium (APM / リン酸アスコルビルMg) — Water-soluble, stable, with proven anti-inflammatory benefits.

Encapsulation and delivery systems: Rather than simply dissolving vitamin C in a water-based serum (the Western approach), Japanese brands use various encapsulation technologies. Obagi's Hyper Charge technology stabilizes pure L-ascorbic acid within a lipophilic delivery matrix. Rohto (Melano CC's parent company) uses what they call a "penetration prescription" (浸透処方) to drive actives deeper into the stratum corneum.

Multi-type vitamin C blends: Instead of using one type of vitamin C at a high concentration, Japanese products often combine 3-4 different vitamin C derivatives that work through different pathways. This provides broader efficacy at lower individual concentrations, with less irritation risk. Melano CC Premium epitomizes this approach with its active ascorbic acid + 3 derivatives formula.

The Concentration Philosophy

Western brands market vitamin C primarily by concentration. "15% pure vitamin C!" "20% L-ascorbic acid!" "The highest concentration on the market!"

Japanese brands rarely disclose exact percentages. They focus instead on delivery efficiency — what percentage of applied vitamin C actually reaches the target cells. A Japanese product with undisclosed vitamin C content might deliver more active ingredient to the dermis than a Western product advertising 20% L-ascorbic acid, because:

1. The derivative form penetrates more efficiently
2. The delivery system targets deeper skin layers
3. The formula doesn't oxidize on the shelf

This drives Western consumers crazy. But the results speak for themselves — Japanese vitamin C serums consistently rank among the most effective in comparative testing, despite (or because of) their lower headline concentrations (translated from Japanese) [https://hadato.jp/article/vitamic-serum].

Tier 1: Drugstore Vitamin C Serums (Under ¥2,000)

1. Melano CC Premium Essence (メラノCC 薬用しみ集中対策プレミアム美容液)

Price: ¥1,628 (~$11 USD) for 20ml | Lasts: 5-6 months at 4-5 drops/day Classification: Quasi-drug (医薬部外品) Active ingredients: Ascorbic acid (active vitamin C), pyridoxine hydrochloride (vitamin B6) Supporting ingredients: 3 vitamin C derivatives (ascorbyl glucoside, 3-O-ethyl ascorbic acid, VCIP), allantoin, isopropyl methylphenol

This is the product that put Japanese vitamin C on the global map. Melano CC Premium has been the #1 best-selling whitening serum in Japan for over 5 consecutive years. At under ¥1,700 for a tube that lasts half a year, the value proposition is almost absurd.

The formula works on multiple levels. The active-form ascorbic acid provides immediate antioxidant and melanin-suppressing effects. The three vitamin C derivatives extend the action over time as they gradually convert to active vitamin C in the skin. Pyridoxine hydrochloride (vitamin B6) controls sebum production. Allantoin prevents inflammation. Isopropyl methylphenol kills acne-causing bacteria.

This multi-target approach explains why Melano CC reviews on @cosme mention benefits beyond just brightening — users report improved acne, reduced pore visibility, smoother texture, and even reduction of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) from old breakouts (translated from Japanese) [https://www.cosme.net/products/10205607/].

The tube packaging is deliberately designed. The narrow tip dispenses one drop at a time, controlling dosage and minimizing air exposure. The opaque tube blocks light. These aren't aesthetic choices — they're stability engineering.

For our comprehensive review, see our Melano CC review.

Normal vs Premium: The standard Melano CC serum uses vitamin E + GK2 (glycyrrhizin dipotassium) as its secondary actives, while Premium swaps in vitamin B6 + allantoin and adds 3 vitamin C derivatives. Premium targets skin improvement; standard targets skin maintenance. For most users, Premium is the better choice (translated from Japanese) [https://dokotoku.xsrv.jp/merano%E2%85%BDcserum-premiumserum-difference/].

2. Melano CC Standard Essence (メラノCC 薬用しみ集中対策美容液)

Price: ¥1,210 (~$8 USD) for 20ml Classification: Quasi-drug (医薬部外品) Active ingredients: Ascorbic acid, tocopherol acetate (vitamin E)

The original Melano CC serum remains a solid budget option. It uses the same active-form ascorbic acid as the Premium version but pairs it with vitamin E (for antioxidant synergy) and glycyrrhizin dipotassium (for anti-inflammation) instead of the Premium's vitamin B6 and additional derivatives. Users describe the texture as thinner and more watery compared to Premium's slightly oilier feel.

If you want vitamin C benefits at the absolute minimum price, this is it. Our guide on best Japanese skincare under ¥3,000 includes this among the top value picks.

3. Shirojyun Premium Whitening Lotion (白潤プレミアム 薬用美白化粧水)

Price: ¥990 (~$6.60 USD) for 170ml Classification: Quasi-drug (医薬部外品) Active ingredient: Tranexamic acid (not vitamin C, but frequently compared)

Technically a toner rather than a serum, and technically tranexamic acid rather than vitamin C — but we include it because Hada Labo's Shirojyun Premium is so frequently recommended alongside Melano CC in Japanese beauty routines. The two complement each other: Melano CC targets melanin production (prevention) while Shirojyun targets melanin dispersion (treatment of existing spots). Many users apply both — Shirojyun lotion first, then Melano CC serum on top. For more on Japanese brightening ingredients, see our tranexamic acid guide.

The Melano CC Complete Line

Beyond the serum, Rohto has expanded Melano CC into a full skincare line worth knowing about:

Product	Price	Key Active	Purpose
Premium Essence	¥1,628 / 20ml	Ascorbic acid + 3 derivatives	Spot treatment, brightening
Standard Essence	¥1,210 / 20ml	Ascorbic acid + Vitamin E	Basic brightening
Whitening Lotion (toner)	¥990 / 170ml	Ascorbic acid	Prep, mild brightening
Premium Lotion (toner)	¥1,320 / 170ml	Ascorbic acid + derivatives	Enhanced prep/brightening
Moisturizing Cream	¥1,210 / 23g	Vitamin C derivative	Brightening + moisture
Sheet Mask (7-pack)	¥660 / 7 sheets	Vitamin C derivative	Weekly intensive care
UV Milk (sunscreen)	¥990 / 40ml	Vitamin C derivative + SPF	Sun protection + brightening

The serum is the hero. The lotion is a decent supporting player as a prep step. The other products are fine but not category leaders — you can find better sheet masks and better sunscreens from specialized brands. The smartest approach: buy the Premium Essence and combine it with your existing toner and moisturizer from other brands.

For a complete deep dive on the serum specifically, our Melano CC review covers everything from user reviews to long-term results.

Normal vs Premium: Which Melano CC Should You Buy?

This is the most common question from first-time buyers. The answer is straightforward: buy Premium unless you have a specific reason not to.

The standard version uses vitamin E + glycyrrhizin dipotassium (GK2) as secondary actives. It's designed for maintaining already-healthy skin — preventing new spots and providing basic antioxidant protection. The Premium version uses vitamin B6 + allantoin + 3 additional vitamin C derivatives. It's designed for improving skin that already has concerns — fading existing spots, controlling sebum, calming inflammation (translated from Japanese) [https://mochiest.com/melano-cc-serum-chigai/].

Price difference is only ¥418 (~$2.80). For that small premium, you get three additional vitamin C derivatives, a sebum-control active (vitamin B6), and a more advanced anti-inflammatory (allantoin replaces GK2). Unless budget is extremely tight, Premium is the better investment.

One exception: if your skin is very sensitive and you want to test tolerance with the simplest formula first, starting with Standard and graduating to Premium after 2-4 weeks of trouble-free use is a reasonable approach.

Tier 2: Mid-Range Vitamin C Serums (¥2,000-5,000)

4. Tunemakers Vitamin C Derivative (チューンメーカーズ VC-20 ビタミンC誘導体)

Price: ¥2,090 (~$14 USD) for 10ml Vitamin C type: Ascorbyl phosphate magnesium (APM) at 20%

Tunemakers takes the opposite approach from Melano CC — single ingredient, high concentration, minimal formula. Their VC-20 contains 20% ascorbyl phosphate magnesium and virtually nothing else. It's designed to be mixed into your existing toner or serum, giving you control over the vitamin C concentration in your routine.

This matters for people who find Melano CC too irritating or not strong enough. You can start with a few drops in your toner (effectively diluting to 2-3%) and increase over time. The ingredient is stable in the dropper bottle for months.

5. Dr. Ci:Labo VC100 Double Repair Serum (ドクターシーラボ VC100 ダブルリペアセラム)

Price: ¥4,950 (~$33 USD) for 30ml Vitamin C type: 3 types of vitamin C derivatives + ceramides

Dr. Ci:Labo is a dermatologist-founded brand (the "Ci" stands for "clinical"), and their VC100 line represents their vitamin C expertise. The Double Repair Serum uses a two-layer formula — shake before use — that separates water-soluble and oil-soluble vitamin C derivatives for maximum stability. The oil layer also contains ceramides for barrier support, making this one of the few vitamin C serums that actively protects the moisture barrier while treating hyperpigmentation. MAQUIA beauty magazine's comparison testing noted that this serum excels at long-term brightening rather than immediate visible effects (translated from Japanese) [https://maquia.hpplus.jp/blog/naomi_maquia/107534/].

Tier 3: Premium Vitamin C Serums (¥5,000+)

6. Obagi C25 Serum Neo (オバジ C25セラム ネオ)

Price: ¥11,000 (~$73 USD) for 12ml Vitamin C type: 25% pure L-ascorbic acid (the highest concentration in Japan)

Obagi C25 is the nuclear option. Twenty-five percent pure L-ascorbic acid — not a derivative, not stabilized through dilution, but actual ascorbic acid at a concentration that rivals clinical peels. Rohto (Obagi's parent company — same as Melano CC) developed their proprietary Hyper Charge system to keep this concentration stable.

The serum has a distinctive oily texture that's completely different from watery vitamin C serums. It feels like a concentrated oil, absorbs slowly, and can leave a slight tacky residue. This isn't a design flaw — the oil-like vehicle enhances penetration of the fat-soluble components and provides a barrier against oxidation.

The C-series ranges from C5 (5% ascorbic acid, ¥3,300) to C25 (25%, ¥11,000). The numbers correspond directly to vitamin C concentration. Obagi is one of the few Japanese brands that actually discloses percentages, because the concentration IS the selling point.

Who should use C25: People with significant hyperpigmentation, sun damage, or dull skin who can tolerate high-concentration actives. This is not a beginner's serum. Start with C5 or C10 and work up. For more on brightening products, our best Japanese products for hyperpigmentation guide covers the full landscape.

7. SK-II GenOptics Aura Essence

Price: ¥18,700 (~$125 USD) for 30ml Active approach: Pitera + niacinamide + d-melano (vitamin C derivative)

SK-II's approach to brightening blends their signature Pitera ferment filtrate with vitamin C derivatives. It's the most expensive option on this list by far, and frankly, the vitamin C concentration is likely lower than any of the mid-range options. You're paying for Pitera and the SK-II brand experience, not for vitamin C potency. If you're already an SK-II user, it fits seamlessly into the system. If you're buying specifically for vitamin C benefits, your money goes further elsewhere.

Vitamin C Serum Comparison Chart

Product	Price	¥/ml	Vitamin C Type	Concentration	Best For
Melano CC Standard	¥1,210 / 20ml	¥61	Ascorbic acid	Undisclosed (low-mod)	Budget maintenance
Melano CC Premium	¥1,628 / 20ml	¥81	Ascorbic acid + 3 derivatives	Undisclosed (moderate)	Best value overall
Tunemakers VC-20	¥2,090 / 10ml	¥209	APM 20%	20%	Customizable dosing
Dr. Ci:Labo VC100	¥4,950 / 30ml	¥165	3 derivatives + ceramides	Undisclosed	Brightening + barrier
Obagi C5	¥3,300 / 10ml	¥330	L-ascorbic acid	5%	Vitamin C beginners
Obagi C10	¥4,400 / 12ml	¥367	L-ascorbic acid	10%	Intermediate users
Obagi C25	¥11,000 / 12ml	¥917	L-ascorbic acid	25%	Significant damage
SK-II GenOptics	¥18,700 / 30ml	¥623	Derivative + Pitera	Undisclosed (low)	SK-II system users

The cost-per-ml comparison is revealing. Melano CC Premium delivers 20ml of multi-active vitamin C at ¥81/ml. Obagi C25 delivers 12ml of ultra-concentrated vitamin C at ¥917/ml — over 11x the per-ml cost. Whether that premium is justified depends on whether your skin actually needs 25% pure ascorbic acid, or whether a gentler formula at consistent daily use would produce similar long-term results.

For most people? Melano CC Premium is the right answer. For dermatology-level skin concerns? Obagi C25 earns its price.

Vitamin C Serum Storage and Shelf Life

Vitamin C stability isn't just about the formula — how you store it matters enormously.

Temperature: Keep vitamin C serums below 25°C (77°F). Japanese summers can push bathroom temperatures well above this, which accelerates oxidation. Some Japanese users store their Obagi C serums in skincare mini-fridges (化粧品用ミニ冷蔵庫), a product category that barely exists in the West but sells well in Japan.

Light exposure: UV light degrades vitamin C rapidly. Melano CC's opaque tube provides built-in protection. Obagi's amber glass offers partial protection. Clear-bottle vitamin C serums (common in Western brands) lose potency fastest — avoid them if possible.

Air exposure: Every time you open a dropper bottle, air enters and starts oxidizing the contents. Melano CC's tube design is specifically engineered to minimize this — you squeeze out drops without letting air back in. Dropper bottles (common in Western serums) are the worst design for vitamin C stability.

How to tell if your vitamin C has oxidized: The solution turns from clear/pale yellow to orange or brown. A faint yellow tint is normal. Dark orange or brown means significant oxidation — the product is losing efficacy. A strong vinegar-like smell confirms degradation. At that point, it's still safe to use but won't do much.

Shelf life by product type:

• Melano CC (tube): 12+ months opened, stable
• Obagi C25 (amber dropper): 6-8 months opened if stored properly
• Western dropper serums: 3-4 months opened, often less

This shelf life difference is a hidden cost advantage for Japanese vitamin C products. A Western 30ml dropper serum that costs $30 but oxidizes in 3 months is effectively $10/month of usable product. Melano CC Premium at ¥1,628 lasting 5-6 months usable is ¥270-325/month (~$1.80-2.20). The real cost gap is even wider than the sticker price suggests.

Vitamin C for Different Skin Concerns

Japanese beauty advisors match vitamin C products to specific concerns. Here's their framework:

For dark spots / hyperpigmentation (シミ対策): Melano CC Premium (daily prevention) + Obagi C10 or C25 (intensive spot treatment). The dual approach prevents new spots while actively treating existing ones. Pair with a tranexamic acid toner for additional brightening. For a comprehensive look, our best Japanese products for hyperpigmentation guide covers the full range.

For acne and acne scars (ニキビ・ニキビ跡): Melano CC Premium is ideal — the IPMP kills acne bacteria, the vitamin C fades PIH, and the vitamin B6 controls sebum. It's a triple-action product for acne-prone skin. Apply directly to active breakouts and surrounding PIH areas. See our best Japanese acne products for additional treatments.

For dullness / uneven tone (くすみ): Any product in this guide will help, but Dr. Ci:Labo VC100 is specifically formulated for overall brightening rather than spot treatment. Its two-layer formula provides broad vitamin C coverage that works on the entire face rather than targeting individual spots.

For anti-aging / wrinkle prevention (エイジングケア): Vitamin C supports collagen synthesis, making it a complementary anti-aging ingredient. Obagi C25's high concentration is best for collagen stimulation. Pair it with a retinol product on alternating nights for the most comprehensive anti-aging routine.

For pore minimization (毛穴ケア): Vitamin C's sebum-regulating and collagen-boosting effects help tighten enlarged pores over time. Melano CC Premium (vitamin B6 for sebum control) and Obagi C10 (moderate concentration for consistent use) are the most commonly recommended products for this concern. Results take 2-3 months of consistent use. For more pore-focused products, see our Japanese skincare for blackheads guide.

Building a Japanese Vitamin C Routine

The Optimal Stack

Japanese beauty magazines and dermatologists recommend a two-product vitamin C approach:

Morning: Apply a vitamin C derivative (like Melano CC) after toner/lotion, before sunscreen. Vitamin C provides UV photoprotection that complements your sunscreen. The derivative form is preferred for morning use because it's more photostable than pure L-ascorbic acid.

Evening: If using a high-concentration vitamin C serum (like Obagi C25), apply it at night after cleansing and toning. Pure L-ascorbic acid can degrade in sunlight, so nighttime application maximizes efficacy.

What Not to Combine With Vitamin C

Japanese dermatologists flag these combinations:

• Vitamin C + retinol on the same application: Both can irritate. Use vitamin C in the morning, retinol at night. If you're using retinol from our best Japanese retinol guide, alternate evenings.
• Vitamin C + benzoyl peroxide: Benzoyl peroxide oxidizes vitamin C, rendering it ineffective. Japan rarely uses benzoyl peroxide in skincare (it was prescription-only until recently), so this is mainly a concern for people mixing Japanese and Western products.
• Vitamin C + AHA/BHA at high concentrations: Both lower skin pH aggressively. Space them 30 minutes apart or use on alternating days.

Good combinations:

• Vitamin C + niacinamide: Despite the old myth, these work fine together. Many Japanese products (including Melano CC Premium) contain both.
• Vitamin C + hyaluronic acid: Hydration supports vitamin C absorption. Layer your Hada Labo lotion under vitamin C for better results.
• Vitamin C + sunscreen: Always. Non-negotiable. Our top 10 Japanese sunscreens list covers the essentials.

Understanding "Whitening" (美白) in Japan

A note for Western readers: Japanese "whitening" (美白 / bihaku) products, including Melano CC, are not bleaching agents. The term is a regulatory category in Japan that means "inhibiting melanin production to prevent spots and freckles" (メラニンの生成を抑え、しみ・そばかすを防ぐ). These products prevent new hyperpigmentation and gradually fade existing dark spots through melanin suppression — the same mechanism as Western "brightening" products.

The terminology can be jarring for Western consumers, but the science is identical to what Western brands sell as "dark spot correctors" or "brightening serums." If anything, Japan's regulatory oversight of these claims is stricter — a product can only use the 美白 label if it contains a PMDA-approved whitening active ingredient at a regulated concentration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Melano CC really effective, or is it just hype?

The hype is real. Melano CC Premium contains a PMDA-approved active-form vitamin C (ascorbic acid) as a whitening agent, which means its efficacy for melanin suppression has been clinically verified. Beyond the regulatory stamp, @cosme reviews consistently report visible brightening and PIH fading within 2-3 months of daily use. The serum's 5-year streak as Japan's #1 whitening serum isn't based on marketing spend — it's based on repurchase rates. People keep buying it because it works.

How long does Melano CC take to show results?

Most @cosme reviewers report initial improvements (brighter overall tone, reduced redness) within 2-4 weeks. Visible fading of dark spots and PIH typically takes 2-3 months of daily use. A single 20ml tube lasts 5-6 months at 4-5 drops per day, so you'll see results well before your first tube runs out. Consistency matters more than quantity — use daily rather than sporadically.

Can I use vitamin C if I have sensitive skin?

Yes, but choose your form carefully. Vitamin C derivatives (ascorbyl glucoside, APM) are gentler than pure L-ascorbic acid. Melano CC's ascorbic acid concentration is lower than most Western vitamin C serums, making it tolerable for many sensitive skin types. If even Melano CC irritates, try Tunemakers VC-20 diluted in your toner, or switch to a niacinamide-based brightening product like Shirojyun Premium.

Should I use Melano CC or Obagi C?

Budget and skin concern dictate the answer. Melano CC Premium (¥1,628) is the better value for general brightening, spot prevention, and acne management. Obagi C25 (¥11,000) is worth the investment for significant existing hyperpigmentation, sun damage, or severe dullness that hasn't responded to gentler products. Most people should start with Melano CC and only graduate to Obagi if they need more potency.

Can I use Japanese vitamin C serums with Korean skincare?

Absolutely. Vitamin C works the same regardless of your routine's national origin. Layer your Japanese vitamin C serum (Melano CC, Obagi) into your Korean routine after toner and before moisturizer. The only caution: avoid layering multiple high-concentration actives from different brands in the same routine. If your Korean serum already contains retinol or acids, space out the vitamin C application. For how Japanese and Korean routines compare, see our Japanese vs Korean skincare routine guide.

Sources

• Rohto Melano CC Official Product Page (translated from Japanese) [https://jp.rohto.com/melanocc/]
• Obagi C25 Serum Neo Official (translated from Japanese) [https://www.obagi.co.jp/c/c25serum-neo/]
• @cosme Melano CC Premium Reviews (translated from Japanese) [https://www.cosme.net/products/10205607/]
• My Best Vitamin C Serum Rankings 2026 (translated from Japanese) [https://my-best.com/2915]
• Hadato Vitamin C Serum Rankings 2026 (translated from Japanese) [https://hadato.jp/article/vitamic-serum]
• Matsumoto Kiyoshi Cocokara Vitamin C Serum Guide (translated from Japanese) [https://www.matsukiyococokara-online.com/useful-info/recommend/158]
• MAQUIA Obagi vs Dr. Ci:Labo Comparison (translated from Japanese) [https://maquia.hpplus.jp/blog/naomi_maquia/107534/]
• My Best Melano CC Premium Review (translated from Japanese) [https://my-best.com/products/299205]

— The J-Beauty Decoded Team