Where to Buy Cheap Skincare in Johor Bahru: Local Pharmacies, Beauty Stores & Hidden Finds

For many Singaporeans, crossing the Causeway isn’t only about food, massages or a short break. It’s also a great chance to stock up on skincare at prices that are often lower than back home. From everyday cleansers to cult Korean serums, Johor Bahru has plenty of shops where you can fill your basket without emptying your wallet. Here’s a closer look at where to begin your hunt for affordable skincare in JB.

Also read: 10 Best Johor Bahru (JB) Bakeries for Singaporeans to Visit in 2025

Guardian

Guardian is everywhere in JB, from big shopping malls to smaller neighbourhood shoplots. What makes it popular with cross-border shoppers are the regular in-store offers. It’s common to see buy-1-free-1 deals on well-known brands like Hada Labo, Simple and Bio‑Essence.

Prices are usually 10–20% cheaper than in Singapore even before discounts. The branch at City Square Mall, located just after immigration, is especially handy if you’re coming for a quick trip. If you shop often, consider joining Guardian’s Malaysian membership programme for extra savings.

Watsons

Watsons is just as easy to find and is often larger, with even more skincare choices. At bigger outlets like the one at Mid Valley Southkey (which is actually one of the 2 biggest in Malaysia), you’ll see rows of Japanese and Korean products, including cleansing oils, toners and sheet masks from brands such as Senka, Dr. Jart+ and Cosrx.

Watsons Malaysia often has special gift sets and travel-sized products that aren’t sold in Singapore. During major sales like 11.11 and festive seasons, discounts can be even deeper. Staff are usually happy to help if you’re looking for new products to try.

Also read: 7 Unique Convenience Stores in Johor Bahru That Are Not in Singapore

Innisfree

Innisfree has several shops in JB and is worth a stop if you’re a fan of K-beauty. While prices aren’t always dramatically cheaper, the difference adds up if you’re buying a few items. Look out for seasonal gift sets, travel kits and limited-edition boxes that often cost less than buying single bottles.

The staff are usually happy to offer testers, so you can try products like the Green Tea Seed Serum or Jeju volcanic masks before deciding.

Laneige

Laneige outlets in JB, including one at Mid Valley Southkey, carry the same popular ranges found in Singapore. Yet prices can be slightly better, and you may also see Malaysia-exclusive sets or festive packaging.

Best-sellers like the Water Sleeping Mask or Cream Skin Refiner often come bundled with trial sizes or extra masks. This makes them a better deal, especially if you travel often or enjoy collecting special editions.

Caring Pharmacy

Caring Pharmacy is a favourite for those who want dermatologist-approved brands. The KSL City Mall branch is especially busy at weekends, with shoppers picking up La Roche-Posay sunscreens, Bioderma micellar waters and Avene mists.

Discounts vary but can be quite generous, especially during monthly promotions. Staff here are usually knowledgeable about expiry dates and can help you find the freshest stock if you’re buying several bottles.

BIG Pharmacy

BIG Pharmacy is growing fast across Malaysia and has built a reputation for affordable prices on European skincare brands like Avene, Uriage and Eucerin.

Its Mid Valley Southkey outlet is bright, organised and has dedicated skincare areas, so browsing is easy even on busy days. If you plan to visit more than once, think about joining their membership for occasional members-only offers and extra discounts.

Sasa

Sasa may look like it mainly sells makeup, but it’s also a treasure trove for skincare lovers. You’ll find shelves stacked with sheet masks, cleansers and lotions from Korean and Japanese brands. One thing to look out for is the clearance section, often near the entrance.

Here, you can spot last-season items, older packaging or overstock products sold at much lower prices. The KSL City Mall branch is known among regular shoppers for good variety and the occasional unexpected bargain.

Also read: Sensitive Skincare While Travelling: Essential Tips and Product Guide

SELECTIV’ by Sasa

Selectiv’ by Sasa is a contemporary beauty concept store created by Sasa, designed to highlight the latest skincare and fragrance trends from Japan and Korea. Its range is carefully curated to feature current and sought-after products, making it a popular stop for those who like to keep their routine up to date.

Located at AEON Mall Tebrau City, the store has a modern, inviting layout and often runs special promotions or launch offers.

Time to make your skin glow

Johor Bahru is more than just a short escape from Singapore. It’s also a place where skincare shopping becomes part of the adventure. Whether you prefer familiar pharmacies, K-beauty boutiques or off-price gems hidden in older malls, there are plenty of ways to save. Plan your trip around big sales, check expiry dates and sign up for local memberships if you visit often. In the end, a short journey across the border can leave you coming home with glowing skin—and change to spare.