How to Use PAIR Acne Cream W — Official Japanese Directions, in English
PAIR Acne Cream W is a Japanese spot treatment made by Lion Corporation. In Japan it is sold as a Class 2 over-the-counter medicine for external use — a medicine, not a cosmetic. The leaflet inside the box is written in Japanese only, and Lion does not publish a full English version of it. This page is a faithful English translation of that official leaflet, so you can follow the directions the manufacturer actually gives.
The short answer
After washing your face with soap, apply a small amount to the spot itself, several times a day. Let it dry, then carry on with your toner and moisturiser.
Step by step
These are the three steps Lion gives for getting the best out of it:
- Cleanse first. Wash your face properly so the skin is clean.
- Apply to the spot. Take an appropriate amount on your fingertip and smooth it onto the breakout or pimple.
- Let it dry, then moisturise. Once the treated area has dried, moisturise to condition the skin.
How often?
Lion's directions are: several times a day, after washing the face with soap, apply an appropriate amount to the affected area.
On the spot only — not all over
Lion is explicit about this: use the product only on areas that have breakouts or acne, and do not apply it to the wide area around them. It is a spot treatment, not an all-over cream.
Where does it go in your routine — before or after moisturiser?
This is the question we are asked most often, and Lion answers it directly in their own FAQ. The order is:
Cleanser → PAIR Acne Cream W on the spots → let it dry → toner, emulsion and the rest of your moisturising steps.
So the cream goes onto clean, bare skin before your toner — not on top of your moisturiser.
Common questions
Can I wear makeup over it?
Yes. Lion states that the cream turns transparent on the skin and that makeup can be applied on top of it.
Can I use it on my back or chest?
Yes. Lion's FAQ confirms it can be used on back and chest breakouts, not only on the face.
How long before I should expect a change?
The leaflet gives a clear checkpoint rather than a promise: if your skin has not improved after about one month of use, or if it gets worse, stop using it and speak to a doctor or pharmacist.
Is it safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Lion's official leaflet does not address pregnancy or breastfeeding for this product, so we cannot answer it for you. Please ask your own doctor or pharmacist.
What is in it
Active ingredients: Ibuprofen piconol (IPPN) 3.0%; Isopropyl methylphenol (IPMP) 0.3%.
Other ingredients: stearyl alcohol, polysorbate 60, edetate sodium, paraben, diisopropanolamine, octyldodecanol, 1,3-butylene glycol, carboxyvinyl polymer, fragrance.
What it is for, in Lion's official wording: breakouts and acne.
Sizes: 14 g and 24 g.
Safety information — please read before use
Do not use on the eyes or the area around the eyes. If any gets into your eye, rinse immediately with water or lukewarm water; if it is painful, see an eye doctor.
Speak to a doctor or pharmacist before using it if you are under a doctor's care, if you have ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine or a cosmetic, or if the affected area is badly weeping or broken.
Stop using it and seek advice if you notice any of these after use: rash or redness, itching, stinging, swelling, or dryness and tightness. Also stop if there is no improvement after about a month, or if your skin worsens.
Children should use it under a guardian's supervision. For external use only.
Storing it
Keep it tightly closed in a cool place, out of direct sunlight and away from humidity. Keep it out of reach of children. Do not transfer it into another container. Do not use it after the expiry date printed on the pack.
The directions and safety information on this page are translated from the manufacturer's official Japanese package leaflet and product FAQ for PAIR Acne Cream W.
Please note. This is an information page, not medical advice. PAIR Acne Cream W is a Class 2 over-the-counter medicine in Japan, and the instructions supplied with your own pack always take precedence over this translation. If you are unsure whether it is right for you, ask a doctor or pharmacist.