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Even if you’ve used insect repellents like the ones we suggested in our guide here, it’s still possible you ended up with a few bites. Mosquitoes and insects in Japan can be pesky, after all. But don’t worry! Japan has a wide range of effective mosquito bite anti-itch medicines available at local drugstores.
Look out for products labeled 虫さされの薬 (mushi-sasare no kusuri)– medicine for insect bites- or かゆみ止め (kayumi-dome)– anti-itch medicine. The most popular options come in cream or liquid form.
Below, we’ve rounded up some of the top pharmacist-recommended anti-itch products in Japan. No more scratching!
Muhi S (ムヒS)
Muhi S (Muhi S)
Summary: Muhi S is a long-selling and popular anti-itch medicine trusted by families for years. Ideal for insect bites and itching, it has a smooth texture that spreads easily and leaves minimal residue. Gentle enough for sensitive skin, it’s suitable for all ages. Its compact size makes it easy to carry, so you can use it anytime, anywhere.
How to Use: Apply an appropriate amount to the affected area several times a day. Recommended for use from 3 months of age and up.
Price: Varies by pharmacy; approximately ¥550 for 20g
What Pharmacists Say: Pharmacists say Muhi is a long-loved product in Japan, effective for bug bites, heat rash, and other skin irritations. Its ingredients provide a cooling sensation and relieve itching. It’s also available in liquid form, so you can choose what suits you best.
Kinkan (キンカン)
Kinkan (Kinkan)
Summary: Kinkan is a liquid anti-itch medication commonly used for insect bites, itching, stiff shoulders, and sprains, among other issues. Its active ingredients work together to quickly cool the affected area and reduce itching and pain by providing targeted stimulation.
How to Use: Before use, turn the bottle upside down and press the sponge a few times to release air and control the flow. Gently dab the sponge on the affected area, and apply several times a day as needed.
Price: Varies by pharmacy; approximately ¥880 for 55ml
What Pharmacists Say: Pharmacists love this product because its sponge top lets you apply it easily without getting your hands dirty. However, avoid scratching the area beforehand, as this can cause a strong stinging sensation when applied.
Unakowa Cool a (ウナコーワクールα)
Unakowa Cool a (Unakowa Cool a)
Summary: Unakowa Cool is a popular anti-itch product that works especially well for recurring itching caused by mosquitoes, mites, ticks, and blackflies. It helps reduce inflammation that makes itching worse and soothes redness and swelling. It also blocks the substances in your body that trigger itching, providing quick and effective relief.
How to Use: Apply an appropriate amount to the affected area several times a day.
Price: Varies by pharmacy; approximately ¥550 for 55ml
What Pharmacists Say: Pharmacists highly recommend this product. However, if symptoms don’t improve after 5 to 6 days, stop using it and consult a doctor. If you experience any side effects such as rash, redness, itching, or swelling, discontinue use immediately and seek medical advice.
BONUS: RinderonVs Cream (リンデロンVsクリーム)
RinderonVs Cream (RinderonVs Cream)
Summary: A go-to for stubborn summer bites, RinderonVs Cream is an over-the-counter steroid cream that packs a punch. Formulated with betamethasone valerate, a strong anti-inflammatory corticosteroid, it quickly soothes intense itching, redness, and swelling from mosquito bites, eczema, and other skin irritations. More effective than non-steroid creams, it tackles inflammation at the root.
How to Use: Apply a small amount of the cream directly to the affected area once or several times a day, as needed. Gently smooth it over the skin without rubbing too hard. Avoid using the cream under makeup or on freshly shaved skin.
Price: Varies by pharmacy; approximately ¥2,200 for 10g
What Pharmacists Say: Pharmacists say this cream is a reliable choice for more severe mosquito bites, offering fast relief when itching or swelling becomes intense. While mild bites may only need a basic anti-itch cream, this stronger option is recommended when those don’t do the trick.
This information is based on interviews with Japanese drugstore employees and available product data as of June 2025. Always read the product packaging and instructions carefully, and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or questions regarding treatment.
For more information, read our full guide to drugstores in Japan.
This page has been brought to you as a public service of The Bluff Medical and Dental Clinic in Yokohama.
