Rohto

Rohto's story began in 1899 in Osaka, when Yasutami Yamada opened the Shintendo Yamada Anmin Pharmacy. The business grew over the following decades and was formally established as a company in 1949. Rohto is known in Japan for eye drops and over-the-counter products, and it later moved into skincare.

In 2004 Rohto launched Hada Labo, a basic skincare brand built around a simple idea: give skin what it needs, with a focus on hydration. Its Gokujyun lotions, made with several types of hyaluronic acid, became bestsellers thanks to their lightweight, layerable textures.

In 2005 Rohto introduced the brand that became Melano CC, built around vitamin C. Its essences and gels are designed to target the look of dark spots and dullness, and they're popular with shoppers who want an affordable vitamin C step.

For shoppers, Rohto offers simple, reliable Japanese skincare. Pat Hada Labo Gokujyun lotion into skin in two or three layers after cleansing, follow with the milk lotion, and use Melano CC in the evening. Always wear sunscreen during the day, especially when using vitamin C to brighten. Hada Labo's fragrance-free textures layer well with almost any routine. If your skin is very dry, finish with a cream.