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Cosmetics & Skincare: Tax-Free Rules from Nov 2026
Yes, if the purchase is ¥5,000+ before tax at one shop on one day. Since Nov 2026 there is no special sealed packaging and no ¥500,000 consumables cap.
The catch
- If you use cosmetics bought tax-free in Japan, they are not eligible for customs confirmation (refund).
- Customs checks per receipt: if even one item from that receipt is not with you, the whole receipt gets no refund.
- If you used some, don't use the kiosk for it — tell customs staff at the counter (JTA FAQ).
| Example (10% items) | Before tax | Eligible? |
|---|---|---|
| Tag total ¥5,500 | ¥5,000 | Yes — tax inside ≈ ¥500 |
| Tag total ¥5,400 | ¥4,909 | No — under ¥5,000 |
| ¥8,800, one lipstick opened in Japan | ¥8,000 | No — whole receipt fails |
Tip: buy what you'll use during the trip on a separate receipt.
→ Estimate your refund with the free calculator · Departure checklist · All guides
Planning a Japan trip after Nov 1, 2026?
- Tax-Free Refund Field Guide ($7) — a step-by-step English guide to the new refund process, from shop to airport.
- Japan Trip Planner Pack ($9) — planning templates for a first Japan trip.
- Tax-Free Receipt Tracker 2026 (from $5) — spreadsheet that flags the ¥5,000 minimum, 90-day deadline and estimated refund per shop/day.
Paid products by GuroWorks, the publisher of this free site (advertisement for our own products). 14-day refund on Gumroad for the guide. The calculator stays free.
Related guides
- Drugstore Medicine & Supplements: Tax-Free Rules
- Electronics (Cameras, Laptops, Phones): Tax-Free Guide
- Luxury Bags & Watches: Tax-Free from Nov 2026
Official sources
Rules checked October 30, 2026 (JST). Rules can change; always confirm with the official pages and your shop.
- Japan Customs — Tax Exemption (Refund) Program: www.customs.go.jp
- Japan Tourism Agency — Traveler FAQ (Refund Method, Japanese): www.mlit.go.jp
- Japan Tourism Agency — Refund Method for travelers (Japanese): www.mlit.go.jp