I am very picky when it comes to skin care products that help with aging. I don't like creams that feel too heavy or suffocating on my skin, but I do need something rich enough to deal with dryness and early signs of aging like fine lines and loss of firmness.  Staying hydrated helps, of course, but I’ve learned that my skin also needs topical support to stay plump and bouncy over time.

That's why I was first interested in Hada Labo Gokujyun Alpha Lift Cream (Also written as ‘a’ or ‘α’ Lift Cream depending on retailer). People often say that this is a daily Japanese anti-aging cream that focuses on hydration and firmness without feeling too heavy. I thought a nourishing cream that felt good on my skin was exactly what I needed.

After using it consistently, I’m ready to share my honest experience. Does this cream really deserve a permanent spot in my skincare routine?

 

 

About Hada Labo: Why This Japanese Brand Is Loved for Anti-Aging Skincare

Hada Labo is a Japanese skin care brand by ROHTO Pharmaceutical Co. that is recognized for its simple, affordable products. Hyaluronic acid is the major ingredient, and it deeply hydrates your skin to make it look full and healthy. People all over the world love the brand's creams and moisturizers for all types of skin.

 

 

What Is Hada Labo Gokujyun Alpha Lift Cream? (Benefits, Key Ingredients, Skin Type)

 

The Gokujyun a (Alpha) Series is Hada Labo’s line designed to support skin that’s starting to show signs of aging, such as dryness, loss of elasticity, and reduced firmness. The Lift Cream is meant to function as a moisturizing and skin-conditioning cream that helps the skin feel smoother, more hydrated, and more resilient over time.
While it’s often marketed toward mature skin, I personally think it also makes sense for people in their late 20s or 30s who want to focus on prevention and long-term skin health.

Key Anti-Aging Ingredients 

What goes into it: Niacinamide, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Acetylated Sodium Hyaluronate, Acetyl Glucosamine, Phellodendron Bark Extract, Shea Butter, d-δ-Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Concentrated Glycerin, Butylene Glycol (BG), Hydrogenated Oil, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Alpha-Olefin Oligomer, 1,2-Pentanediol, Polyoxyethylene Glyceryl Triisostearate, POE (20) Sorbitan Isostearate, Polyoxyethylene Behenyl Ether, Dimethicone, Pullulan, Carbomer, Triethanolamine (TEA), Edetate, Anhydrous Citric Acid, Behenyl Alcohol, Stearyl Alcohol, Phenoxyethanol

Who Should Use This Cream? Skin Type & Concerns

Skin type: Works well on normal to dry skin, especially on skin that is getting older or is anxious about losing firmness and getting fine lines

Texture, Fragrance, and Packaging Overview

Texture: Smooth and creamy texture

Fragrance: No fragrance

Packaging: A jar (40g) is the container

 

 

My First Impressions of Hada Labo Gokujyun Alpha Lift Cream

How the Cream Feels on the Skin

I was a little scared at first because heavy creams usually make my T-zone oilier or clog my pores. The Hada Labo Gokujyun Alpha Lift Cream, on the other hand, really blew me away. It has a nourishing texture, but once applied, it settles into the skin nicely instead of sitting on top.

Immediate Effects After First Use

It quickly improved my dry patches, especially around my cheekbones, and it also helped with the stiffness I usually feel at night. After applying it for a couple of nights, I noticed that my skin felt softer, smoother, and even a little more elastic.

Absorption, Weight & Finish

The best part was how easy it was to sleep in. I sometimes wake up with an oily T-zone or a sticky face after using other heavy creams, but this one made my skin feel fresh and nourished. It helped my skin look full and rested without the greasy film, which is something I don't normally get when I use thicker creams to fight aging.

 

 

How I Use Hada Labo Gokujyun Alpha Lift Cream in My Skincare Routine

My Night Routine With the Lift Cream

My skin care routine is quite basic: I wash my face, tone it, put on serum, and then moisturizer. The last thing I do before bed is put on the Hada Labo Gokujyun Alpha Lift Cream. It feels like a covering that keeps everything underneath it in place. I barely need a pea-sized amount most of the time, which is enough to cover my whole face evenly.

Using It in the Morning: Does It Work Under Makeup?

I've also used it in the morning when my skin feels really dry or tight. It works well with sunscreen and makeup without making me seem shiny. It combined beautifully with my moisturizing serum and didn't feel sticky or like a pillow when I put it on top. I like to use the cream at night because it is a little thicker. When I wake up in the morning, my skin feels smooth, plump, and glowing, like I had a treatment overnight.

 

 

How Well Hada Labo Gokujyun Alpha Lift Cream Works: Hydration, Firmness & Results

Changes in Skin Texture and Plumpness

When I used it frequently, I started to notice real changes in my skin bit by bit. The first thing I noticed was how moisturized my skin was; it felt less tight and much more comfortable all day.

When my skin was well-moisturized, it looked healthier and more supple over time. Fine lines, especially around my eyes, looked softer as well.

This isn’t an instant transformation product, but with daily use, it does exactly what it promises: supports hydration, improves skin comfort, and helps maintain a firmer, smoother appearance.

 

 

Pros and Cons 

 

Pros:

●    It has hyaluronic acid in it, which helps keep skin moist and firm.
●    It absorbs well into the skin without leaving a sticky or greasy feel.
●    Keeps skin moist all night long
●    Compared to a lot of other anti-aging creams, this is a terrific deal
●    It works well as a night cream for skin that is dry or aged

Cons:

●    If your skin is oily or prone to acne, the texture could feel a little heavy
●    It comes in a jar, which makes it less clean unless you use a spatula
●    Results aren’t immediate

 

 

Hada Labo Lift Cream vs. Gokujyun Lotion Moist Type: Which One Should You Choose?

Texture and Formula Differences

The main difference is how they feel and what they do. The Hada Labo Gokujyun Alpha Lift Cream is a great last step in an evening routine. It is a cream that is rich and creamy. By morning, it makes my skin look tighter and fuller, and it feels incredibly good for my skin.

The Hada Labo Gokujyun a Lotion Moist Type, on the other hand, is watery and absorbs quickly, like a toner that moisturizes the skin and prepares it ready for the next layers.

I like to use the cream when my skin needs extra comfort and moisture, especially at night. The lotion is better for my daily routine when I want something lighter.

How They Fit Into a Skincare Routine

I find the Lift Cream works best when my skin is very dry or needs that "locking in" feeling, like at night. I prefer to use the lotion every day or on top of other things. I like it best on days when it's humid since it maintains my skin healthy without making it feel heavy.

 

 

My Final Thoughts: Is Hada Labo Gokujyun Alpha Lift Cream Worth It?

Is It Good Value for the Price?

In general, I think this is a good choice if you want an affordable Japanese anti-aging cream that focuses on hydration and making your skin feel good.As a night cream, it works best for me. It helps smooth out dry patches and keeps my skin feeling plump and healthy over time.
What I like best about it is that it gives my skin nutrients without leaving a greasy or heavy film behind. This cream is easy to trust if you want a simple skin care routine that still works.

Who I Recommend This Cream For

If you want a basic skincare routine that still works, the Hada Labo Gokujyun Alpha Lift Cream is a perfect choice. It's not too expensive, it's not a pain, and you'll notice results if you use it regularly. I think it's perfect for people with dry to normal skin who want a firming cream for aged skin that keeps their skin soft and hydrated and is comfortable enough to wear every day. It seems like one of those things you can always count on to provide your skin the extra care and nutrients it needs.

Quick Verdict: Who It’s For (and Who It’s Not)

Best for: dry/normal skin, early fine lines, night routine

Not ideal for: very oily/acne-prone skin, people who dislike jar packaging

 

FAQ for Hada Labo Gokujyun Alpha Lift Cream

1. Is Hada Labo Gokujyun Alpha Lift Cream good for dry skin?

Yes. Hada Labo Gokujyun Alpha Lift Cream works especially well for dry skin thanks to its multiple forms of hyaluronic acid and rich, moisturizing texture. It helps relieve tightness, improve comfort, and keep skin hydrated throughout the night.

2. Can oily or acne-prone skin use Hada Labo Alpha Lift Cream?

Oily or acne-prone skin can use it cautiously, but the texture may feel heavy for some. It’s best suited for nighttime use or colder months, and those with very oily skin may prefer a lighter lotion or gel during the day.

3. Is Hada Labo Gokujyun Alpha Lift Cream fragrance-free?

Yes. Hada Labo Gokujyun Alpha Lift Cream is fragrance-free, making it a good option for people who are sensitive to added scents or prefer minimal, no-fragrance skincare products.

4. Can you use Hada Labo Alpha Lift Cream under makeup?

You can use it under makeup if applied in a thin layer and given time to absorb. While it layers well with sunscreen, many people prefer using it mainly at night due to its richer consistency.

5. How long does it take to see results from Hada Labo Gokujyun Alpha Lift Cream?

Hydration and comfort are often noticeable within a few days of regular use. Improvements in skin smoothness and a plumper appearance typically become more noticeable after 2–4 weeks of consistent application.

6. What’s the difference between Hada Labo Alpha Lift Cream and Gokujyun Lotion Moist Type?

The Alpha Lift Cream is thicker and designed to seal in moisture, making it ideal as a final step in a nighttime routine. The Gokujyun Lotion Moist Type has a lightweight, watery texture and works better as a hydrating base layer, especially for daytime or humid conditions.

 

 

Written by Amelia P.