Aloe Vera 99% Soothing Gel
Aloe Vera 99% Soothing Gel
Product Description
Product overview
SOQU Aloe Vera 99% Soothing Gel is a lightweight, fast-absorbing multi-purpose moisturizing gel powered by 99% Jeju aloe vera and deep sea water. This vegan, fragrance-light Korean formula is enriched with barley leaf extract, sodium hyaluronate, centella asiatica, and a botanical blend of green tea, licorice, chamomile, and rosemary to deeply hydrate, calm redness, and soothe stressed skin on the face, body, and even hair — without any sticky residue.
99% Jeju Aloe Vera
Sourced from Korea's pristine Jeju Island, packed with vitamins, amino acids and polysaccharides to calm and hydrate.
Texture & feel
SENSORY99% Jeju Aloe Vera
Sourced from Korea's pristine Jeju Island, packed with vitamins, amino acids and polysaccharides to calm and hydrate.
Deep Sea Water
Mineral-rich purified sea water delivers zinc, copper and magnesium for fast absorption and replenished hydration.
Barley Leaf Extract
Hordeum Vulgare antioxidants help improve skin elasticity and protect against environmental free radicals.
Multi-Use Formula
One gel for face, body, hair, scalp and after-sun care — lightweight enough for daily use everywhere.
Botanical Soothing Blend
Centella, green tea, licorice, chamomile, rosemary & skullcap calm redness and irritation in one shot.
Vegan & Cruelty-Free
No animal-derived ingredients, no animal testing — gentle on skin and ethically formulated.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone or chemical sunscreens — all-botanical hydration profile.
No fatty acids, esters, polysorbates or fermented ingredients that feed Malassezia yeast.
Free from harsh alcohols, common allergens and silicones; barley leaf extract reduces redness.
Pairs safely with vitamin C, niacinamide, retinol, AHAs and BHAs as a buffering hydration step.
Listed last on the INCI; very low percentage but patch test if you have a known fragrance allergy.
Contains aloe latex traces and citrus fruit extract; very reactive skin should patch test first.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSAloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract ~99%Proven
The hero ingredient and the very first item on the INCI list. Aloe barbadensis is rich in polysaccharides, vitamins, amino acids and enzymes that hydrate, soothe inflammation and accelerate skin barrier repair.
- Source: Clinical reviews show aloe vera reduces UV-induced erythema and accelerates wound healing.
- Source: Contains acemannan, a polysaccharide proven to boost skin moisture and stimulate fibroblast activity.
Sea Water HighPromising
Purified deep sea water acts as a humectant solvent that delivers natural minerals — sodium, zinc, magnesium and copper — supporting skin's electrolyte balance and barrier function.
- Source: Korean dermatology studies link deep sea water to improved skin hydration and barrier recovery.
- Source: Zinc and magnesium contribute to anti-inflammatory effects on stressed skin.
Hordeum Vulgare (Barley) Leaf Extract MidPromising
Sprout barley leaf is loaded with chlorophyll, flavonoids and vitamin C, helping to brighten dullness, support elasticity and shield skin from oxidative stress.
- Source: Barley leaf polyphenols demonstrate antioxidant capacity comparable to green tea in lab assays.
- Source: Traditional Korean cosmetic studies note its skin-firming and anti-pollution properties.
Sodium Hyaluronate ActiveProven
The salt form of hyaluronic acid — a humectant that holds up to 1,000 times its weight in water, plumping skin and reinforcing the moisture barrier.
- Source: Multiple peer-reviewed trials confirm hyaluronate boosts skin hydration within 15 minutes of application.
- Source: Smaller molecular weight allows deeper penetration than standard HA.
Centella Asiatica Extract ActiveProven
Also known as Cica or Gotu Kola — packed with madecassoside, asiaticoside and asiatic acid that calm redness, support collagen synthesis and accelerate barrier repair.
- Source: A 4-week study in 25 participants showed centella significantly improved skin moisture and reduced TEWL.
- Source: Madecassoside is clinically used for post-laser and post-acne marks.
Botanical Soothing Complex MidPromising
A multi-extract blend of Scutellaria Baicalensis (skullcap), Polygonum Cuspidatum, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (licorice), Camellia Sinensis (green tea), Rosmarinus Officinalis (rosemary) and Chamomilla Recutita (chamomile). Together they deliver antioxidants, anti-inflammatory flavonoids and brightening glabridin.
- Source: Skullcap baicalin shows antimicrobial activity against P. acnes and Malassezia furfur.
- Source: Licorice glabridin has documented skin-brightening effects comparable to mild hydroquinone alternatives.
- Source: Green tea EGCG is a well-studied topical antioxidant against UV-induced damage.
17 ingredients
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Water, Sea Water, Hordeum Vulgare Leaf Extract, Propanediol, Glycerin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Xanthan Gum, Citrus Paradisi Fruit Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract, Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract, Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract, Chamomilla Recutita Flower Extract, Parfum.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as a hydrating treatment after toner/essence, or as a standalone moisturizer for oily/combo skin. Doubles as an after-sun gel and overnight sleeping mask.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Skin
Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and pat dry. Apply on slightly damp skin for maximum hydration absorption.
Dispense a Coin-Sized Amount
Take a generous pearl-sized amount onto your fingertips. The watery gel spreads far — a little goes a long way.
Massage Into Skin
Gently smooth over face, neck and decolletage in upward circular motions. Wait 30 seconds for full absorption.
Layer or Seal
Follow with serum and moisturizer in your AM/PM routine. In summer, lock in with a light cream and SPF.
Multi-Purpose Bonus
Use as an after-sun cooler, soothing body gel, hair-tame leave-in or overnight sleeping mask.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily, combination or dehydrated skin
- You're looking for a lightweight, non-sticky moisturizer
- You need calming relief after sun exposure or shaving
- You want a vegan, cruelty-free Korean formula
- You prefer alcohol-free, silicone-free products
- You want a multi-tasker for face, body, and hair
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need a gentle hydrator
- You're on a budget and want a generous 300ml size
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry skin and need richer occlusive textures
- You're allergic to fragrance (contains Parfum)
- You want completely fragrance-free formulas
- You have known citrus allergy (contains grapefruit extract)
- You're seeking active anti-aging actives like retinol/peptides
- You expect a thick cream consistency
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESWatery gel texture absorbs instantly with zero shine — perfect daily moisturizer for oil-prone skin.
Provides surface hydration but very dry skin will need a heavier cream or facial oil layered on top.
Balances hydration across oilier T-zones and drier cheeks without overwhelming either area.
Botanical soothers calm reactivity, but the light parfum means you should patch test if very fragrance-reactive.
Non-comedogenic, fungal-acne safe, and contains anti-inflammatory skullcap and centella to calm breakouts.
Antioxidants from green tea and barley help with elasticity, but won't replace dedicated anti-aging actives.
Results timeline
WEEK 4+Cooling & Calming Sensation
An instant cooling rush that calms heat, redness and surface irritation. Skin feels refreshed within seconds — ideal for after-sun.
94% noticedHydration Boost & Plumpness
Skin appears more bouncy and dewy. Tight, dehydrated patches feel relieved and makeup glides on more smoothly.
88% noticedReduced Redness & Sensitivity
Visible reduction in flushing, post-sun redness and minor irritation thanks to the centella + skullcap soothing complex.
76% noticedHealthier Skin Barrier
Consistent users report a stronger, more resilient barrier with fewer breakouts and a brighter overall complexion.
68% noticedRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Massive 300ml size — incredible value for money
- Truly multi-use: face, body, hair, after-sun, after-shave
- Lightweight and absorbs instantly without stickiness
- Vegan, cruelty-free and ethically formulated
- No alcohol, parabens, silicones or sulfates
- Cooling, calming sensation that feels great in summer
- Botanical soothing blend (centella, skullcap, licorice, green tea)
- Works as a buffering layer with strong actives
Criticized
- Contains parfum — not for the most fragrance-sensitive
- Not hydrating enough alone for very dry skin types
- Pump bottle can clog over time
- Citrus paradisi extract may sensitize reactive skin
- Lacks "wow" actives like niacinamide or peptides
- Light scent fades fast but is noticeable on application
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
The most iconic aloe dupe — slightly lower 92% aloe content, 300ml size, but very similar texture and use cases. Slightly more sticky finish than SOQU.
Same 99% Jeju aloe concentration in 300ml. Lacks the deep sea water and barley leaf complex but identical hydrating purpose at slightly lower cost.
Similar 99% aloe claim with fermented aloe twist. Smaller 250ml jar, more gel-like texture, less mineral content than SOQU's deep sea water formula.
Different category but with strong aloe focus plus SPF. Only worth considering if you want sun protection layered with the aloe hydration.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening (12M symbol on packaging)
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Refrigerate for an extra-cooling after-sun experience.
Pump-top plastic bottle (300ml) — hygienic dispensing, easy daily use.
Full size is over 100ml; decant into a smaller container for carry-on travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes — the formula is generally considered pregnancy- and breastfeeding-friendly. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone or chemical sunscreen filters. The hero ingredients (aloe, sea water, barley leaf, hyaluronate, centella) are all considered safe topical hydrators. As always, we recommend confirming with your OB-GYN if you have a sensitive pregnancy or specific concerns.
Yes — this gel is fungal-acne safe. It contains no fatty acids, esters, polysorbates or fermented ingredients that typically feed Malassezia yeast. In fact, the Scutellaria Baicalensis (skullcap) extract has documented antimicrobial activity against Malassezia furfur, making it a great option for those battling fungal acne flare-ups.
Absolutely. This is one of the gel's strongest use cases. Apply your active (retinol, vitamin C, AHA/BHA) first, wait for it to absorb, then layer the SOQU gel as a buffering hydration step. It calms potential irritation, reinforces the moisture barrier, and helps your skin tolerate stronger actives without compromising their effectiveness.
It performs best on oily, combination, acne-prone and dehydrated skin. The lightweight watery gel absorbs without adding shine or stickiness. Sensitive skin tolerates it well thanks to the soothing botanicals, but the lightest hint of parfum means very fragrance-reactive users should patch test. Very dry skin types should layer a richer cream on top.
Cooling and soothing effects are immediate — within seconds of application. Hydration boost is visible within 1–3 days. Reduced redness and sensitivity typically appear by week 1–2. A stronger, more resilient skin barrier with fewer breakouts develops by 4 weeks of consistent use.
Apply it after toner/essence and before your serum and moisturizer. Order: Cleanser → Toner → Essence → SOQU Soothing Gel → Serum → Moisturizer → Sunscreen (AM). Oily/combo skin can use it as a standalone moisturizer, while dry skin should always seal with a richer cream on top.
No — it has a comedogenic rating of 1/5 (very low). The formula is silicone-free, oil-free and contains no known pore-clogging ingredients. It's actually recommended for acne-prone and breakout-prone skin thanks to its anti-inflammatory botanical complex.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Look for the "12M" symbol on the packaging. To maximize freshness, store the gel in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Many users keep it in the refrigerator for an extra-cooling experience, especially in summer or after sun exposure.
Verdict: SOQU Aloe Vera 99% Soothing Gel is one of the best-value multi-purpose Korean soothing gels on the market. With 99% Jeju aloe, deep sea water minerals, barley leaf antioxidants and a thoughtful botanical complex of centella, skullcap, licorice and green tea, it punches well above its price point. The lightweight, non-sticky watery texture works for face, body, hair and after-sun — making the 300ml bottle exceptional value. Minor drawbacks: the light parfum and citrus extract mean the most fragrance-reactive users should patch test, and very dry skin types will want to layer it under a richer cream. For oily, combo, acne-prone or sensitive skin looking for a gentle daily hydrator, this is a near-perfect, vegan, cruelty-free pick.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract
Emollient, Humectant, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
|
|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Sea Water
Humectant, Solvent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|