When living in Japan, you may notice that finding a wide variety of deodorant products can be a challenge. This is because Japanese people, as a group, tend to have less body odor compared to Westerners. As a result, the demand for strong deodorants is lower, and the selection is more limited. For foreigners, this can raise questions about where to find suitable products and whether adopting a Japanese diet might reduce body odor over time.
1. Why Is It Hard to Find Deodorant in Japan? In Japan, body odor (BO) is less of a concern compared to Western countries. Due to genetic factors, many Japanese people have fewer apocrine sweat glands, which are responsible for producing the bacteria that cause body odor. This has led to a limited variety of deodorant products on store shelves. Most products available in Japan tend to be mild or come in forms such as sprays or wipes, rather than strong antiperspirants.
For foreigners, especially those used to stronger deodorants, this can be a bit of a surprise. Products such as roll-ons and sticks, which are common in Western countries, may be harder to find. Additionally, deodorant products with clinical-strength antiperspirants are quite rare in Japan.
2. Where to Buy Deodorant Products in Japan? While the selection of deodorant in convenience stores and drugstores may be limited, there are still some options available. For example:
- Don Quijote: A popular discount store chain where you can find a wider selection, including imported brands.
- Online Shopping: Amazon Japan and Rakuten often carry international deodorant brands that you may be familiar with.
- Specialty Stores: Some foreign food and lifestyle stores, such as Costco, may have deodorants imported from abroad.
If you’re looking for stronger or more familiar products, buying online or bringing your favorite brand from home might be your best option.
3. Does a Japanese Diet Help Reduce Body Odor? Many expats in Japan claim that after living in the country and adopting a traditional Japanese diet, their body odor has decreased. Japanese cuisine tends to be lower in red meat and dairy, which are known to contribute to stronger body odor. A diet rich in fish, vegetables, rice, and fermented foods like miso can promote a healthier gut, which may reduce the intensity of body odor.
While more research is needed to confirm this, it’s possible that switching to a Japanese diet over time could help minimize body odor. However, individual results may vary, so it’s important to find a balance that works for your personal health and comfort.
Conclusion: Navigating deodorant options in Japan can be tricky for foreigners, but there are ways to find products that work for you. Whether you explore local stores or shop online, you’ll eventually find something that suits your needs. Additionally, incorporating more Japanese foods into your diet might have the added benefit of reducing body odor naturally.
