Blemish & Oil Control Hydrating Lotion
Blemish & Oil Control Hydrating Lotion
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, dual-action hydrating lotion that fights blemishes while restoring your skin's oil-water balance. Formulated with Hyaluronic Acid, Tranexamic Acid, and calming botanical extracts including Hatomugi, Houttuynia Cordata, and Chamomile to soothe redness, control excess oil, and deliver lasting hydration for clear, healthy-looking skin.
Dual-Action Formula
Hydrates with Hyaluronic Acid while controlling oil production and fighting blemishes with botanical extracts.
Texture & feel
SENSORYDual-Action Formula
Hydrates with Hyaluronic Acid while controlling oil production and fighting blemishes with botanical extracts.
Soothing Botanicals
Hatomugi, Houttuynia Cordata, and Chamomile work together to calm redness and irritated, blemish-prone skin.
Brightening Action
Tranexamic Acid helps fade dark spots and post-acne marks for a more even, radiant complexion.
Environmental Shield
Helps protect skin from the effects of UV rays, pollution, climate changes, stress, and hormonal fluctuations.
Safety & compatibility
SAFETopical Tranexamic Acid is classified as Category B and considered safe during pregnancy with minimal systemic absorption. No retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone present.
Topical application results in minimal to no transfer into breast milk. Safe for use while nursing according to current research.
Contains Squalane which is generally FA-safe, but Sorbitan Sesquioleate may potentially feed Malassezia in some individuals. Patch test recommended.
Alcohol is the 3rd ingredient which may be drying for sensitive/dry skin. Menthol and Camphor provide cooling but can irritate very sensitive skin.
Rated 1/5 for comedogenicity. Most ingredients are non-pore-clogging and suitable for acne-prone skin.
Preservative used at safe concentrations. If avoiding parabens, consider alternatives.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSodium HyaluronateProven
A smaller molecular form of Hyaluronic Acid that penetrates deeper into the skin to lock, store, and replenish moisture for significantly soft, smooth, and supple skin.
- Function: Humectant that can hold up to 1000x its weight in water
- Benefits: Deep hydration, plumping, reduced fine lines
- Evidence: Extensively studied and proven effective for skin hydration
Tranexamic AcidProven
A synthetic amino acid derivative that inhibits melanin production by blocking the interaction between melanocytes and keratinocytes, effectively brightening skin and fading dark spots.
- Function: Tyrosinase inhibitor and skin brightener
- Benefits: Fades hyperpigmentation, evens skin tone, reduces post-acne marks
- Evidence: Clinical studies show effectiveness for melasma and dark spots at 2-5% concentration
Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate (Licorice Root)Proven
A potent anti-inflammatory derived from licorice root that calms irritation, reduces redness, and helps soothe blemish-prone skin.
- Function: Anti-inflammatory and skin soothing agent
- Benefits: Reduces redness, calms irritation, anti-bacterial properties
- Evidence: Extensively studied for anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing effects
Coix Lacryma-Jobi (Hatomugi) ExtractPromising
Also known as Job's Tears, this traditional East Asian botanical helps control excess sebum production and decreases oiliness while providing gentle hydration.
- Function: Sebum-regulating and moisturizing
- Benefits: Oil control, skin smoothing, traditional use for clear skin
- Evidence: Traditional use supported by emerging research on sebum regulation
Houttuynia Cordata ExtractPromising
A powerful anti-bacterial botanical known as "fish mint" that fights acne-causing bacteria and has strong anti-allergic effects helpful for eczema-prone skin.
- Function: Anti-bacterial and anti-allergic
- Benefits: Fights acne bacteria, reduces inflammation, soothes allergic reactions
- Evidence: In-vitro studies show strong anti-bacterial and anti-allergic properties
Chamomilla Recutita Flower ExtractProven
German Chamomile extract known for its potent soothing and antioxidant properties, helping calm irritated skin and reduce inflammation associated with blemishes.
- Function: Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant
- Benefits: Calms redness, soothes irritation, provides antioxidant protection
- Comedogenicity: 0 (non-comedogenic)
SqualaneProven
A lightweight, stable emollient identical to a component of human sebum. Provides excellent hydration without clogging pores or feeling greasy.
- Function: Emollient and moisture barrier support
- Benefits: Hydration, antioxidant protection, skin barrier repair
- Evidence: Non-irritating even at 100% concentration; does not feed Malassezia yeast
17 ingredients
Water, Butylene Glycol, Alcohol, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Sorbitan Sesquioleate, Squalane, Triethylhexanoin, Methylparaben, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Tranexamic Acid, Disodium EDTA, Menthol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Camphor, Coix Lacryma-Jobi Ma-Yuen Seed Extract, Houttuynia Cordata Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse AM & PM after cleansing. In Japanese skincare, "lotion" refers to hydrating toners used before serums and moisturizers. Pro tip: Store in refrigerator for extra cooling, soothing effect.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Face
Start with clean skin. Use your regular cleanser and pat dry gently with a towel.
Dispense Product
Pour an adequate amount (about a coin-sized amount) onto your palm. You only need a few drops per application.
Pat Into Skin
Gently pat and press the lotion all over your face until fully absorbed. Avoid rubbing - patting helps absorption.
Continue Routine
Follow with your essence, serum, and moisturizer. Use morning and night for best results.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin that gets shiny throughout the day
- You struggle with blemishes, breakouts, or acne-prone skin
- You want lightweight hydration without heaviness or greasiness
- You have post-acne dark spots or uneven skin tone
- You prefer fragrance-free, minimal skincare
- You're looking for a J-Beauty hydrating toner for oily skin
- You want to soothe redness and calm irritated skin
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry skin that needs richer hydration
- You're sensitive to alcohol in skincare products
- You react to menthol or camphor (cooling agents)
- You have active fungal acne and haven't patch tested
- You strictly avoid all parabens (contains methylparaben)
- You prefer alcohol-free formulations
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESSpecifically formulated for oily skin. Controls sebum, hydrates without greasiness, and leaves a matte-natural finish. The 170ml bottle lasts months with daily use.
Balances oily T-zone while providing hydration to drier areas. Lightweight enough for daily use across different face zones.
Low comedogenic rating, anti-bacterial botanicals, and oil control make this ideal for breakout-prone skin. Does not further irritate acne.
Fragrance-free and pH balanced, but contains alcohol and menthol which may irritate very sensitive skin. Patch test recommended.
Provides hydration but alcohol content may be too drying. Better suited as a prep step before richer moisturizers if used on dry skin.
Works well for maintaining balanced, healthy skin. Provides nice lightweight hydration and prep for following skincare steps.
Results timeline
WEEK 8-12Immediate Hydration & Comfort
Skin feels instantly hydrated and refreshed. Cooling sensation soothes irritation. Oil control begins to regulate throughout the day.
85% noticed improved hydrationReduced Oiliness & Calmer Skin
Noticeably less shine and sebum production. Redness begins to calm. Skin texture starts to feel smoother and more balanced.
70% noticed reduced oilinessClearer, More Even Complexion
Blemishes appear less frequently. Post-acne marks begin to fade. Overall skin tone looks more even and radiant.
60% noticed improved clarityLong-Term Skin Health
Established oil-water balance. Fewer breakouts. Dark spots and hyperpigmentation visibly faded. Skin looks healthier overall.
55% noticed faded dark spotsRatings by platform
650+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Excellent oil control without over-drying
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing formula
- Great value - 170ml bottle lasts months
- Fragrance-free and colorant-free
- Contains proven brightening ingredients
- Calms redness and irritated skin effectively
- Works well under makeup
- Leaves silky-smooth finish
Criticized
- Contains alcohol (3rd ingredient) - may be too drying for some
- Menthol/camphor can irritate very sensitive skin
- Contains methylparaben (concern for some users)
- May not be fungal acne safe for everyone
- Not hydrating enough for very dry skin types
- Cooling sensation too intense for some users
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES70% Birch Sap base provides similar lightweight hydration for oily skin. Alcohol-free formula better for sensitive skin. Smaller 100ml size but excellent for post-exfoliation care.
More active exfoliation with triple acids (AHA/BHA/PHA) plus tea tree. Better for acne treatment but may be too strong for daily use. Contains niacinamide for brightening.
Same brand, focused purely on hydration with 7 types of Hyaluronic Acid. No oil control or blemish-fighting benefits but alcohol-free and better for dry/sensitive skin.
Green tea-based toner that balances hydration and sebum control. Contains amino acids for skin barrier support. More suitable for combination than very oily skin.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Pro tip: Place in refrigerator for enhanced cooling and soothing effect.
Plastic bottle with flip-top cap for easy dispensing
No - 170ml exceeds 100ml carry-on limit. Decant into smaller container for travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, this product is considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The key active, Tranexamic Acid, is classified as Category B when applied topically and has minimal systemic absorption through the skin. There are no retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone in the formula. Studies show topical tranexamic acid results in breast milk levels of less than 1% of maternal plasma concentrations. However, always consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.
Use with caution. While the Squalane in this formula does not feed Malassezia yeast (it's a saturated hydrocarbon), SkinCarisma has flagged this product as containing a potentially fungal acne-triggering ingredient (Sorbitan Sesquioleate). However, pure squalane is generally considered FA-safe. If you're prone to fungal acne, patch test on a small area first and monitor for any reactions before full-face application.
Yes, this lotion can be layered with most actives. Apply it after cleansing as your hydrating toner step, then follow with your retinol, vitamin C serum, or other treatments. The Tranexamic Acid in this formula actually pairs well with Vitamin C for enhanced brightening. However, if using strong AHA/BHA exfoliants, the alcohol content in this lotion may increase sensitivity - consider alternating days or using a gentler routine.
This lotion is specifically formulated for oily and combination skin types that struggle with blemishes, excess sebum, and shine. It's excellent for acne-prone skin due to its low comedogenic rating and anti-bacterial botanicals. It's rated "Moderate" for sensitive and dry skin types due to the alcohol and menthol content. If you have very dry or sensitive skin, consider the alcohol-free Hada Labo Gokujyun Premium Lotion instead.
Hydration benefits are immediate - you'll feel your skin plump and refreshed right away. Oil control improvements typically appear within 1-2 weeks of consistent use. For blemish reduction and fading of dark spots, expect to see noticeable improvements around 4-8 weeks. Maximum brightening results from Tranexamic Acid are typically seen after 8-12 weeks of consistent daily use.
In Japanese skincare, "lotion" refers to hydrating toners, not moisturizers. Apply this immediately after cleansing as your first treatment step. The order is: Cleanser → This Lotion → Essence (optional) → Serum → Moisturizer → Sunscreen (AM). Use both morning and evening for best results. The lightweight formula prepares your skin to better absorb subsequent products.
No, this product has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5. The key ingredients including Sodium Hyaluronate, Chamomile Extract (comedogenicity rating 0), and Squalane are non-pore-clogging. User reviews confirm it does not further irritate acne and works well for oily, acne-prone skin. The lightweight, watery texture absorbs quickly without leaving residue that could block pores.
The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. The 170ml bottle typically lasts 3-6 months with twice-daily use since you only need a few drops per application. For optimal freshness and an enhanced cooling effect, you can store it in the refrigerator. Keep away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures to maintain product integrity.
Verdict: Hada Labo Blemish & Oil Control Hydrating Lotion is an excellent choice for those with oily, combination, or blemish-prone skin seeking lightweight hydration with proven oil-control benefits. The combination of Hyaluronic Acid for hydration, Tranexamic Acid for brightening, and calming botanicals like Hatomugi and Chamomile makes this a well-rounded J-Beauty toner. The generous 170ml size offers great value. However, the alcohol content (3rd ingredient) and cooling agents (menthol, camphor) may not suit everyone, particularly those with dry or very sensitive skin. If you can tolerate alcohol in skincare and want effective oil control with hydration, this is a solid, affordable option backed by Hada Labo's reputation for quality hydrating products.
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
Promotes Wound Healing 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
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Alcohol
Antimicrobial, Astringent, Masking, Solvent
|
|
|
| 3 |
PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil
Perfuming, Surfactant, Fragrance, Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sorbitan Sesquioleate
Surfactant, Emulsifying
|
|