Gokujyun Hyaluronic Acid Face Foam
Gokujyun Hyaluronic Acid Face Foam
Product Description
Hada Labo's iconic gentle face foam from Japan, powered by 3 types of hyaluronic acid (Super HA, Skin-Adsorbing HA, and Sodium Hyaluronate) that cleanse away dirt, sebum, and light makeup without stripping moisture. Mildly acidic, fragrance-free, and trusted by millions across Asia for daily, no-fuss hydrating cleansing that leaves skin soft and supple.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Triple Hyaluronic Acid Complex
Super HA, skin-adsorbing HA, and sodium hyaluronate work together to bind moisture during the cleansing step.
Non-Stripping Cleansing
Mild surfactants lift away dirt, sebum, and SPF without leaving skin tight, dry, or squeaky.
Mildly Acidic pH
Formulated to respect the skin's natural acid mantle and protect the moisture barrier from disruption.
Award-Winning J-Beauty Classic
Named best face wash in the Japanese drugstore category in 2022 and a long-running bestseller across Asia.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
Contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Contains PEG-80 Sorbitan Laurate and Cocamide DEA, which may feed Malassezia. Rinse-off use limits exposure but caution advised.
Compatible with retinol, vitamin C, niacinamide, AHA, and BHA. As a rinse-off cleanser, it doesn't interfere with serums.
Free from fragrance, ethanol, mineral oil, and colorants. The mild surfactant blend is well-tolerated by reactive skin.
Sold in mainland China, where animal testing may be required. Hyaluronic acid is sometimes biotech-fermented but not certified vegan.
Removes SPF and light makeup. For waterproof makeup or full coverage, use a cleansing oil or balm first as a double cleanse.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
π§ Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate (Super HA) ~0.1β0.5% Proven
An advanced, modified form of hyaluronic acid where some hydroxyl groups are replaced with acetyl "anchors" that stick to the skin. Also marketed as "Super Hyaluronic Acid," it stays on the skin longer than standard HA, providing more durable surface hydration even after rinsing.
- Mechanism: Acetyl groups improve substantivity, helping HA cling to skin surface post-rinse.
- Benefit: Longer-lasting hydration and improved suppleness compared to traditional sodium hyaluronate.
- Bonus: Less sticky and more cosmetically elegant than regular HA.
π Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate ~0.1β0.3% Proven
A cationic (positively charged) hyaluronic acid derivative known as "skin-adsorbing HA." The positive charge attracts it to the negatively charged surface of skin and hair, helping it form a thin moisture-binding film that resists rinsing.
- Source: Hada Labo specifically formulates with three HA types β this one provides surface adhesion.
- Function: Binds to skin during cleansing for residual hydration after rinse-off.
- Common in: Premium hydrating shampoos and rinse-off cleansers due to its substantive properties.
πΏ Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate ~5β10% Proven
A gentle amino-acid based surfactant derived from coconut oil and the amino acid glutamic acid. It is one of the mildest cleansing agents in modern cosmetic chemistry and is a favorite in J-Beauty and K-Beauty cleansers designed for sensitive or barrier-compromised skin.
- Source: Coconut-derived amino acid surfactant; biodegradable.
- pH: Functions effectively at slightly acidic pH, helping the formula stay barrier-friendly.
- Compatibility: Works as a co-surfactant to reduce harshness of stronger cleansers.
𧴠Glycerin & Sorbitol ~3β5% Proven
A classic humectant duo that pulls water into the upper layers of the skin and helps offset the dehydrating effect of cleansing. Glycerin is the gold-standard humectant, found naturally in skin and shown in studies to outperform AHAs and even hyaluronic acid as a moisture-binder.
- Glycerin: Comedogenicity 0, irritancy 0 β safe for nearly all skin types.
- Sorbitol: Sugar-derived humectant that adds slip and softness to the foam.
- Combined effect: Helps prevent the "tight, stripped" feel after washing.
π‘οΈ Petrolatum (Vaseline) ~0.5β1% Proven
An occlusive ingredient at the lower end of the formula that helps cushion the surfactants and leaves a faint moisture-locking film after rinsing. While unusual in a cleanser, this is part of why the foam feels softer and less drying than typical foaming washes.
- Function: Reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL) during cleansing.
- Safety: Cosmetic-grade petrolatum is non-comedogenic in most studies.
18 ingredients
Water, Butylene Glycol, Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate, PEG-8, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Cocamide DEA, PEG-80 Sorbitan Laurate, Glycerin, Sorbitol, Sodium Taurine Cocoyl Methyltaurate, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate, Petrolatum, Citric Acid, Polyquaternium-7, Disodium EDTA, BHT, Methylparaben.
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
π‘ Use as the second step in your double cleanse at night, or as a single morning cleanser when no makeup needs removing.
π How to Use
Wet face with lukewarm water
Avoid hot water, which can dry out and irritate the skin. Lukewarm or cool water works best.
Dispense 1β2 pumps onto damp palms
The foam comes out pre-lathered. One pump is enough for the face, two if you also cleanse the neck.
Massage gently in circular motions
Spend roughly 30β60 seconds, focusing on the T-zone and any areas with sunscreen or makeup residue.
Rinse thoroughly & pat dry
Splash with lukewarm water until all product is removed. Pat β don't rub β with a clean towel.
Follow with toner immediately
Apply your next step within 60 seconds while skin is still damp to lock in maximum hydration.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You have dry, normal, combination, or sensitive skin
- Your current cleanser leaves your skin tight or "squeaky"
- You want a no-fuss, fragrance-free daily cleanser
- You're new to J-Beauty and want a trusted starter product
- You need something budget-friendly that lasts months
- You wear sunscreen daily and need gentle SPF removal
β Consider alternatives if:
- You have very oily, congested, or acne-prone skin needing deep cleansing
- You wear heavy or waterproof makeup (use as second step only)
- You strictly avoid parabens (contains methylparaben)
- You need a vegan or cruelty-free certified product
- You have severe Malassezia (fungal acne) concerns
- You prefer dense, traditional cleanser texture over self-foaming
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Hyaluronic acid and humectants prevent the typical post-wash tightness. One of the most non-stripping foaming cleansers available.
Fragrance-free, alcohol-free, mildly acidic, and uses gentle amino-acid surfactants. Ideal for reactive or barrier-compromised skin.
Cleanses the T-zone effectively without over-drying the cheeks. A great everyday balance for combination skin types.
Triple HA helps preserve hydration that mature skin loses more easily. Won't disrupt the lipid barrier or aggravate fine lines.
Cleanses without stripping, but very oily skin types may want a slightly stronger formula or use this as a morning-only cleanser.
Low comedogenicity (1/5) and non-irritating. Caution for those with confirmed Malassezia (fungal acne) due to PEG-80 Sorbitan Laurate.
π Results Timeline
Soft, Hydrated Finish
Skin feels clean but never tight. Unlike traditional foaming cleansers, there's no need to "race" to apply moisturizer afterward.
88% noticedCalmer, Less Reactive Skin
Reduced redness and irritation for those who switched from harsher sulfate-based cleansers. Less morning tightness.
75% noticedImproved Barrier & Hydration
Skin holds onto moisture better throughout the day. Flaky, dehydrated patches diminish, and texture feels smoother and more even.
68% noticedHealthy, Resilient Skin
A fully restored moisture barrier means makeup applies more smoothly, serums penetrate better, and overall skin tolerates active ingredients with less fuss.
62% noticedβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Genuinely non-stripping β no tight, dry feel
- Pre-foamed pump is fast, mess-free, and travel-friendly
- Fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and mildly acidic
- Big 160ml bottle lasts 3β4+ months
- Excellent value for daily use (well under $15)
- Award-winning Japanese formula trusted by dermatologists
- Comfortable for sensitive, dry, and reactive skin
β Criticized
- Doesn't remove makeup β needs an oil cleanser first
- Foam is light/airy β some prefer denser lather
- Contains methylparaben (a concern for paraben-avoiders)
- Contains Cocamide DEA β not 100% fungal-acne friendly
- Not cruelty-free (sold in mainland China)
- Slight "plastic-like" smell some users notice on close inspection
- May feel too gentle for very oily or congested skin
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
The US-market version of the same brand. Slightly different formulation (uses Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate as primary surfactant) but retains hyaluronic acid and the gentle, hydrating philosophy.
A close Western dupe. Cream-to-foam texture, with hyaluronic acid and ceramides for barrier repair. Slightly more cleansing power but heavier feel.
A drugstore staple for sensitive skin. Lacks Hada Labo's triple HA system, but is fragrance-free, gentle, and dermatologist recommended.
Korean alternative with mineral water and panthenol. Foamier and slightly more cleansing, but less dramatic post-rinse hydration than Hada Labo.
π Comparison with Competitors
Hada Labo Gokujyun Face Foam (Featured)
~$12Shiseido Senka Perfect Whip
~$10CeraVe Hydrating Cream-to-Foam Cleanser
~$16COSRX Low pH Good Morning Cleanser
~$13π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening. Replace if texture, color, or scent changes.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and high humidity. Keep cap closed when not in use.
Plastic foam-pump bottle with locking pump cap. Pre-aerates the formula for instant lather.
Yes β 160ml is over the standard 100ml carry-on limit, so check into hold luggage or decant for flights.
β Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. The formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreen filters, or essential oils that are typically flagged during pregnancy or breastfeeding. The active ingredients (hyaluronic acid derivatives, mild amino-acid surfactants, glycerin) are considered safe for use throughout pregnancy. As always, when in doubt, consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist about your full skincare routine.
Caution advised. The formula contains PEG-80 Sorbitan Laurate and Cocamide DEA, both of which appear on common Malassezia trigger lists. However, because this is a rinse-off cleanser with very brief skin contact (typically under 60 seconds), most users with mild fungal acne tolerate it well. If you have severe or confirmed fungal acne, opt for a strictly fungal-acne-safe cleanser without polysorbates, esters, or fatty-acid amides.
Yes β fully compatible with all common actives. Because it's a rinse-off cleanser with no leave-on actives of its own, it doesn't interact with retinol, vitamin C, niacinamide, AHA, or BHA serums applied afterward. In fact, its non-stripping, mildly acidic formula is an excellent prep step for active routines because it doesn't disrupt the skin barrier the way harsh cleansers can.
It performs best on dry, sensitive, normal, and combination skin. Mature skin also benefits from the moisture-binding hyaluronic acid complex. Oily and acne-prone skin types can use it, but very oily skin may prefer a slightly stronger cleanser, or use this in the morning while reserving a deeper cleanser for nighttime.
Immediately, in terms of comfort. Most users report skin feeling soft and hydrated after the very first wash, instead of tight or stripped. Visible improvements in skin texture, reduced redness, and a more resilient barrier typically appear within 1β4 weeks of consistent twice-daily use, especially when paired with a hydrating toner and moisturizer.
It's the second step of your evening routine and the first step in the morning. At night, use an oil cleanser or balm first to remove makeup and SPF, then follow with this foaming cleanser to clear any remaining residue. In the morning, it can be used as a single, gentle cleanse. Always follow with toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM).
No β it scores 1/5 on the comedogenic scale, meaning it has very low pore-clogging potential. The petrolatum is at a low percentage and is well-balanced by the surfactant system, which rinses cleanly. The vast majority of acne-prone users tolerate it without breakouts, though those with confirmed Malassezia (fungal acne) should patch test first.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. The formula is preserved with methylparaben and phenoxyethanol-class preservatives in similar Hada Labo formulas, so it stays stable for a year once you start using it. With twice-daily use, a 160ml bottle typically lasts 3β4 months β well within the safe window. Always check for changes in color, smell, or texture as a sign to replace it.
Verdict: Hada Labo Gokujyun Hyaluronic Acid Face Foam earns its cult status. It's one of the best-value gentle cleansers on the market β fragrance-free, mildly acidic, non-stripping, and powered by three forms of hyaluronic acid that genuinely leave skin softer post-rinse. It's not a heavy-duty makeup remover and won't satisfy fans of dense, ultra-foamy lather, but as a daily, barrier-respecting cleanser for dry, sensitive, normal, combination, and mature skin, it's a near-perfect J-Beauty workhorse that pairs beautifully with virtually any routine.
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 skinβs 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 Β«promisesΒ» 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 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 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
|
|
| 1 |
Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate
Surfactant, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 0 |
PEG-8
Humectant, Solvent
|
|
|
| 4 |
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
|
|