Bio Watery Sun Cream SPF50+ PA++++
Bio Watery Sun Cream SPF50+ PA++++
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, fast-absorbing Korean sunscreen with SPF50+ PA++++ broad-spectrum protection. Features a watery, serum-like texture that leaves a velvet, natural finish without white cast. Enriched with 1,000ppm Bio-Hyaluronic Acid and Mung Bean Extract to hydrate and soothe while protecting from UVA/UVB rays.
Serum-Like Texture
Milky watery formula that spreads effortlessly and absorbs instantly without feeling heavy or greasy on the skin.
Texture & feel
SENSORYSerum-Like Texture
Milky watery formula that spreads effortlessly and absorbs instantly without feeling heavy or greasy on the skin.
No White Cast
Chemical UV filters ensure completely transparent application suitable for all skin tones.
Perfect Makeup Base
Velvet finish with slight tackiness grips makeup beautifully, acting as an excellent primer without pilling.
Soothing Botanicals
Contains 10 herbal extracts including Mung Bean, Skullcap Root, and Evening Primrose for calming benefits.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains chemical UV filters. While no harmful ingredients like retinoids or high-dose salicylic acid, consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy.
Not safe. Contains Polyglyceryl-3 Distearate, Cetearyl Alcohol, and Cotton Seed Oil which may feed malassezia yeast.
Rating 2/5. Lightweight formula with minimal pore-clogging potential for most skin types.
Free from Oxybenzone and Octinoxate. Safe for marine ecosystems and coral reefs.
Contains light botanical/floral fragrance (Parfum). May not be suitable for extremely fragrance-sensitive skin.
Some users report mild eye stinging. Avoid direct contact with eyes and use mineral sunscreen around eye area if sensitive.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSEthylhexyl Triazone (Uvinul T 150) ~4-5%Proven
New-generation UVB filter providing the highest photo-stable absorption of all available UVB filters. Protects in the 280-320nm range with peak protection at 314nm.
- Protection: Superior UVB protection with excellent photostability
- Texture: Oil-soluble, odorless, and colorless for elegant formulas
Tinosorb S (Bemotrizinol) ~0.5-0.8%Proven
One of the best broad-spectrum sunscreen agents available today. Provides both UVA and UVB protection while stabilizing other UV filters like Avobenzone.
- Spectrum: Broad UVA/UVB coverage (280-400nm)
- Stability: Highly photostable and prevents degradation of other filters
Uvinul A Plus (DHHB) ~1.1-1.4%Proven
New-generation chemical sunscreen designed specifically for high UVA protection (320-400nm) with peak protection at 354nm. Excellent photostability.
- UVA Focus: Targets long-wave UVA rays that cause aging
- Approved: EU, Japan, Taiwan, South America (not FDA approved)
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) ~2%Proven
Multi-functional skincare superstar that brightens skin, reduces pores, controls oil, and strengthens the skin barrier.
- Benefits: Reduces blemishes, evens skin tone, supports barrier function
- Concentration: ~2% effective for barrier support and brightening
Sodium Hyaluronate (Bio-HA) 1,000ppmProven
Salt form of Hyaluronic Acid that binds up to 1000x its weight in water. Provides surface hydration and plumping effect.
- Hydration: Excellent humectant for moisture retention
- Skin Feel: Leaves skin soft, supple, and hydrated
Vigna Radiata Seed Extract (Mung Bean) 1,000ppmPromising
Asian legume extract rich in flavonoids and polyphenols. Provides antioxidant protection and soothes irritated, blemish-prone skin.
- Antioxidant: Contains caffeic acid and other protective compounds
- Soothing: Anti-inflammatory properties for calming irritation
39 ingredients
Water, Dibutyl Adipate, Propanediol, Ethylhexyl Triazone, Terephthalylidene Dicamphor Sulfonic Acid, Polyglyceryl-3 Distearate, Niacinamide, Tromethamine, Cetearyl Alcohol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Pentylene Glycol, Polysilicone-15, Vigna Radiata Seed Extract, Gossypium Herbaceum (Cotton) Extract, Sophora Flavescens Root Extract, Rheum Palmatum Root/Stalk Extract, Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract, Phellodendron Amurense Bark Extract, Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Flower Extract, Ulmus Davidiana Root Extract, Pinus Palustris Leaf Extract, Pueraria Lobata Root Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Gossypium Herbaceum (Cotton) Seed Oil, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Sodium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Glyceryl Stearate, Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Glycerin, Glyceryl Stearate Citrate, Inulin Lauryl Carbamate, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Ethylhexylglycerin, Adenosine, Butylene Glycol, Tocopherol, Parfum
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply as the final step of your AM skincare routine, before makeup. Oily skin in humid climates may skip moisturizer. Dry skin should always use moisturizer underneath.
How to use
HOW TO USEApply Generously
Use approximately two finger-lengths (1/4 teaspoon) for face and neck. The lightweight texture allows for generous application.
Pat Gently
Gently pat the product into skin until fully absorbed. The watery texture absorbs in 10-15 seconds without rubbing.
Wait Before Makeup
Allow 1-2 minutes for the sunscreen to set before applying makeup. The velvet finish creates an excellent primer base.
Reapply Every 2 Hours
Reapply every 2 hours when outdoors, or immediately after swimming, sweating, or towel drying. Note: This sunscreen is not water-resistant.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin
- You want a lightweight, non-greasy sunscreen
- You need a sunscreen that works under makeup
- You dislike white cast from mineral sunscreens
- You want modern UV filter technology
- You prefer a natural, velvet finish
- You use actives like Vitamin C or retinol (AM/PM separation)
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You're extremely sensitive to fragrance
- You need water-resistant protection for swimming
- You have very dry skin in cold climates (may need extra moisturizer)
- You prefer mineral-only sunscreens during pregnancy
- Chemical sunscreens sting your eyes
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal choice. Lightweight, fast-absorbing, velvet finish controls shine without clogging pores. Can skip moisturizer in humid weather.
Perfect balance. Controls T-zone oiliness while providing enough hydration for normal areas. Works beautifully across all face zones.
Works wonderfully. Maintains skin balance with comfortable, weightless protection all day.
Good with preparation. Always layer over hydrating moisturizer. May feel slightly tight in cold, dry climates without adequate hydration underneath.
Generally well-tolerated. Contains soothing botanicals, but patch test first due to fragrance. Avoid eye area if prone to stinging.
Low comedogenic rating (2/5). Contains niacinamide for acne support. However, NOT suitable for fungal acne.
Results timeline
3+ MONTHSInstant Hydration & Protection
Skin feels soft and hydrated upon application. UV protection begins immediately. Velvet-matte finish visible within seconds.
95% noticedImproved Skin Texture
With daily use, niacinamide begins to refine pores and even out skin tone. Skin appears smoother under makeup.
78% noticedSun Damage Prevention
Consistent broad-spectrum protection prevents new dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and premature aging signs from UV exposure.
85% noticedLong-term Anti-Aging Benefits
Daily high-protection sunscreen use shows significant reduction in photoaging. Skin remains more youthful and even-toned compared to unprotected skin.
90% noticedRatings by platform
5K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Extremely lightweight, watery texture
- Zero white cast on all skin tones
- Excellent under makeup - acts as primer
- Modern UV filter combination (Tinosorb S, Uvinul T, Uvinul A Plus)
- No pilling on reapplication
- Velvet-matte finish controls oil
- Contains niacinamide for added benefits
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Excellent price-to-quality ratio
- Reef safe formula
Criticized
- Strong floral/botanical fragrance
- Can sting eyes for some users
- Not fungal acne safe
- May feel drying without moisturizer in winter
- Not water-resistant
- Small 50ml bottle
- Not independently lab tested
- UV filters not FDA-approved (US only)
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Nearly identical texture and protection level. More dewy finish, fragrance-free, independently tested. Better for dry skin but may be too shiny for very oily skin.
Similar watery texture with natural finish. Fragrance-free and unscented. Contains Centella Asiatica for extra soothing. Slightly more dewy than Tocobo.
More gel-like texture with dewy finish. Contains 8 types of hyaluronic acid. May feel tackier than Tocobo. Independently tested. Better for drier skin types.
Creamier, more moisturizing formula. Better for normal-dry skin. Contains Birch Sap. Less matte than Tocobo. May feel heavier on oily skin.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
SKIN1004 Hyalu-Cica Sun Serum
Isntree HA Watery Sun Gel
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep away from heat sources and naked flames.
Plastic squeeze bottle with twist-off cap. Compact, hygienic design with precise dispensing nozzle.
Yes, 50ml is under the 100ml/3.4oz TSA liquid limit for carry-on luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThis sunscreen uses chemical (organic) UV filters rather than mineral filters. While it does not contain known harmful ingredients like retinoids, high-concentration salicylic acid, or hydroquinone, some healthcare providers recommend mineral-only sunscreens during pregnancy as a precaution. The chemical filters (Ethylhexyl Triazone, Tinosorb S, Uvinul A Plus) have good safety profiles, but we recommend consulting your healthcare provider for personalized advice during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
No, this sunscreen is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients that may feed malassezia yeast: Polyglyceryl-3 Distearate, Cetearyl Alcohol (fatty alcohol), and Gossypium Herbaceum (Cotton) Seed Oil. If you're prone to fungal acne or malassezia folliculitis, look for alternatives like Purito Centella Green Level Unscented Sun or check dedicated fungal acne-safe product lists.
Yes! Sunscreen is essential when using any active ingredients. Apply this sunscreen as the final step of your morning routine after all other products have absorbed. When using retinol, apply it at night only. For Vitamin C, apply in the morning before sunscreen. For AHAs/BHAs, use at night or ensure adequate sun protection during the day. This sunscreen contains niacinamide which works well with most actives.
This sunscreen is IDEAL for oily and combination skin types. The lightweight, watery texture absorbs quickly and leaves a velvet-matte finish that controls shine without clogging pores. It also works well for normal skin. Those with dry skin can use it but should always apply a hydrating moisturizer underneath, especially in cold or dry climates. The formula may feel slightly drying for very dry skin without proper prep.
UV protection begins immediately upon application. The hydrating benefits from hyaluronic acid are instant. With consistent daily use over 1-2 weeks, you may notice improved skin texture from the niacinamide. The true long-term benefits of sunscreen—preventing sun damage, dark spots, and premature aging—accumulate over months and years of consistent use. Studies show daily SPF50 use significantly reduces photoaging signs after 3-6 months.
Apply as the LAST step of your morning skincare routine, after all serums and moisturizers but before makeup. The order is: Cleanser → Toner → Essence/Serum → Moisturizer → SUNSCREEN → Makeup. If you have very oily skin in humid climates, you may skip moisturizer. Wait 1-2 minutes after application before applying makeup for best results.
This sunscreen has a low comedogenic rating of 2/5. While it contains some ingredients like Cetearyl Alcohol (rating 2) and Cotton Seed Oil (rating 3), the overall lightweight formula is unlikely to clog pores for most people. The niacinamide content may actually help reduce pore appearance. However, individual reactions vary—patch test if you're acne-prone. Remember: this product is NOT suitable for fungal acne specifically.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal efficacy and safety. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. The 50ml bottle typically lasts 1-2 months with daily face application (using the recommended 2 finger-lengths per application). For best UV protection, don't use sunscreen past its expiration or PAO date as the filters may degrade.
Verdict: TOCOBO Bio Watery Sun Cream is an excellent K-beauty sunscreen that delivers on its promises of lightweight, comfortable daily protection. The modern filter combination (including Tinosorb S and Uvinul A Plus) provides robust broad-spectrum coverage, while the watery texture and velvet finish make it ideal for oily and combination skin types. It excels as a makeup base and causes no white cast. However, it's not suitable for fungal acne sufferers, the botanical fragrance may bother sensitive noses, and very dry skin types need moisturizer underneath. At its price point ($14-18), it offers exceptional value compared to Western alternatives. For those who want effective, elegant daily sun protection without the greasy feel or white cast, this is a top-tier choice.
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 3 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 5 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Dibutyl Adipate
Emollient, Skin Conditioning, Solvent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Ethylhexyl Triazone
Uv Absorber, Uv Filter
|
|
|
| 0 |
Terephthalylidene Dicamphor Sulfonic Acid
Uv Absorber, Uv Filter
|
|