Gokujyun Hyaluronic Cream
Gokujyun Hyaluronic Cream
Product Description
Product overview
A rich, deeply hydrating Japanese moisturizing cream with two types of hyaluronic acid and squalane that locks in moisture to leave skin soft, dewy, and supple all day long. Ideal as a nighttime occlusive or a protective day cream in harsh weather.
Dual Hyaluronic Acid Complex
Contains both Sodium Hyaluronate and Super Hyaluronic Acid (Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate) for multi-layer hydration that binds moisture to the skin surface and deeper layers.
Texture & feel
SENSORYDual Hyaluronic Acid Complex
Contains both Sodium Hyaluronate and Super Hyaluronic Acid (Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate) for multi-layer hydration that binds moisture to the skin surface and deeper layers.
Squalane Moisture Lock
Plant-derived squalane mimics your skin's natural lipids, reinforcing the moisture barrier and preventing transepidermal water loss without feeling greasy.
Minimal & Clean Formula
Only 19 ingredients with no fragrance, colorants, or mineral oil. Designed around Hada Labo's philosophy of delivering maximum hydration with minimum irritation risk.
Skin-Identical Emollients
Features Phytosteryl/Octyldodecyl Lauroyl Glutamate, a plant-derived emollient that closely mimics the skin's own lipid structure for comfortable, natural-feeling moisture.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. All ingredients are considered safe for topical use during pregnancy and nursing.
Contains Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride and PEG-20 Sorbitan Isostearate, which are known triggers for malassezia folliculitis. Avoid if you are prone to fungal acne.
Most ingredients rate 0–1 on the comedogenic scale. Squalane and glycerin are non-comedogenic. Fatty alcohols present (Behenyl, Stearyl) rate 2, keeping the overall risk low.
Includes Methylparaben and Propylparaben as preservatives. These are widely regarded as safe at cosmetic concentrations by the EU and FDA, but some individuals prefer to avoid them.
Fragrance-free, colorant-free, and alcohol-free formulation. Patch test recommended for extremely reactive skin, but the simple formula minimizes irritation risk.
Formulated at a mildly acidic pH (~5.0–5.5) that is compatible with the skin's natural acid mantle, helping to maintain a healthy barrier.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSodium HyaluronateProven
The salt form of hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring molecule in the skin that can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water. It plumps and hydrates the skin at the surface level, reducing the appearance of fine lines caused by dehydration.
- Mechanism: Acts as a humectant, drawing moisture from the environment and deeper skin layers to the stratum corneum.
- Research: Extensively studied; topical HA has been shown to improve skin hydration and elasticity in multiple clinical trials.
- Molecular Weight: Standard high-molecular-weight form (1.5–1.8 million Da) for surface hydration and film-forming.
Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate (Super HA)Proven
A modified form of hyaluronic acid where some hydroxyl groups are replaced with acetyl groups, giving it better skin adhesion and longer-lasting hydration than standard HA. Known as "Super Hyaluronic Acid" in Hada Labo's formulations.
- Advantage: Acetyl groups act as tiny anchors, helping the molecule attach to the skin surface more effectively than regular HA.
- Retention: Claimed to offer 2x the moisture retention of standard sodium hyaluronate due to improved skin affinity.
- Texture: Less sticky and more cosmetically elegant than standard HA, contributing to a smoother feel.
SqualaneProven
A stable, hydrogenated form of squalene, a lipid naturally produced by human skin. Acts as a lightweight emollient that reinforces the skin barrier and locks in moisture without clogging pores (comedogenic rating: 0).
- Biocompatibility: Closely mimics the skin's own sebum, making it exceptionally well-tolerated even by sensitive and acne-prone skin.
- Occlusive: Forms a non-greasy protective layer that prevents transepidermal water loss (TEWL).
- Antioxidant: Provides mild antioxidant protection against environmental stressors.
Glycerin & DiglycerinProven
Two powerful humectants that work together to attract water to the skin and keep it hydrated. Glycerin is one of the most well-researched and effective moisturizing ingredients available. Diglycerin offers enhanced moisture-binding capacity.
- Glycerin: Naturally present in skin, it strengthens the moisture barrier and improves skin texture when applied topically.
- Diglycerin: A dimer of glycerin with even higher water-binding capacity and longer-lasting hydration effects.
DimethiconeProven
A widely used silicone that creates a smooth, protective film on the skin. It fills in fine lines, provides a silky texture, and prevents moisture loss. Non-comedogenic and very well-tolerated.
- Function: Acts as an occlusive emollient, sealing in moisture while giving the cream its smooth, spreadable texture.
- Safety: Extensively studied; considered safe for cosmetic use by all major regulatory bodies. Non-irritating and non-sensitizing.
19 ingredients
Water, Glycerin, Diglycerin, Dipropylene Glycol, Squalane, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Behenyl Alcohol, Carbomer, Dimethicone, Disodium EDTA, Glyceryl Stearate, Methylparaben, PEG-20 Sorbitan Isostearate, Phytosteryl/Octyldodecyl Lauroyl Glutamate, Propylparaben, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Stearyl Alcohol, Triethanolamine
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as the final moisturizing step before sunscreen in the morning, or as the last step at night. Pairs perfectly with Hada Labo Gokujyun Lotion as the toner step for maximum hydration layering.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Face
Start with a clean face using your preferred cleanser. Pat dry gently with a towel, leaving skin slightly damp.
Apply Toner or Lotion
Layer a hydrating toner (such as Hada Labo Gokujyun Lotion) onto damp skin. The hyaluronic acid in this cream works best on pre-hydrated skin.
Scoop a Nickel-Sized Amount
Take a nickel-sized amount of the cream onto your fingertips. Warm it slightly between your palms for easier application.
Gently Press Into Skin
Massage onto face and neck using gentle upward motions. Press into the skin rather than rubbing to help the cream absorb without tugging.
Follow With Sunscreen (AM)
In the morning, wait 1–2 minutes for the cream to absorb, then apply your sunscreen. At night, this can be your final step.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dry or dehydrated skin that needs intense moisture
- You want a fragrance-free, minimal-ingredient moisturizer
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe hydrator
- You live in a cold, dry, or harsh climate
- You want a budget-friendly Japanese cream with proven humectants
- You need a simple nighttime occlusive cream
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (contains fatty acid esters and polysorbates)
- You prefer completely paraben-free products
- You have very oily skin and want a lightweight gel texture
- You need anti-aging actives like retinol, peptides, or vitamin C
- You prefer airless pump packaging (this comes in an open jar)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThe rich cream texture with squalane and dual HA provides deep, lasting hydration that dry skin craves. Ideal as a winter moisturizer.
Provides balanced hydration without being too heavy. Works well year-round as a daily moisturizer for normal skin types.
Works well on dry cheeks but may feel slightly rich on the oily T-zone. Consider using a thinner layer on oily areas.
May feel too heavy for oily skin, especially in humid weather. Better suited as a nighttime-only moisturizer for oily types.
Fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and minimal formula makes this very gentle. Multiple user reviews praise its compatibility with sensitive skin.
Low comedogenic rating (1/5) and non-irritating formula. However, not fungal acne safe. Patch test recommended for breakout-prone skin.
Results timeline
6–8 WEEKSInstant Hydration & Softness
Skin feels noticeably softer, smoother, and more supple right after application. The rich cream creates a protective moisture barrier on contact.
95% noticedReduced Dryness & Flaking
Dry patches and flaky skin begin to diminish with consistent use. Skin appears more plump and the texture starts to smooth out.
80% noticedImproved Skin Elasticity
Consistent HA delivery helps skin retain more water naturally. Fine dehydration lines appear less visible and skin feels bouncy and resilient.
70% noticedStrengthened Moisture Barrier
Long-term use with squalane and glycerin helps reinforce the skin barrier. Skin becomes less reactive and better at retaining its own moisture.
60% noticedRatings by platform
3K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Intensely hydrating with long-lasting moisture throughout the day
- Fragrance-free and gentle enough for sensitive skin
- Excellent value for a Japanese skincare cream (~$14–$17)
- Simple, minimal ingredient list with only 19 ingredients
- Absorbs well without feeling greasy despite rich texture
- Safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Great nighttime occlusive that locks in toner and serum layers
Criticized
- Jar packaging is unhygienic (use a spatula)
- Not fungal acne safe due to fatty acid esters
- Contains parabens (Methylparaben, Propylparaben)
- 50g jar is small and runs out in 4–6 weeks with daily use
- May feel too heavy for oily skin in humid climates
- No advanced anti-aging ingredients (retinol, peptides, niacinamide)
- Japanese-only packaging can be confusing for first-time buyers
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
A lightweight, no-frills moisturizer with HA, amino acids, and fatty acids. Simpler humectant blend but very similar philosophy of minimal, effective hydration at an even lower price point.
Features Sodium Hyaluronate and Hippophae Rhamnoides Water for hydration plus soothing. Lighter gel-cream texture and fungal acne safe, but lacks the squalane barrier-sealing effect.
K-beauty alternative focusing on ceramides instead of HA for barrier repair. Richer texture and fragrance-free. Better for eczema-prone skin but a different hydration mechanism.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid storing in the bathroom where heat and humidity can degrade ingredients.
Screw-top jar (50g). Use a clean spatula or spoon to maintain hygiene and prevent contamination from fingers.
Yes — 50g is well under the 100ml carry-on limit. Compact jar fits easily in travel kits.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. This cream contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreens, or any other ingredients flagged as unsafe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. The formula is based on hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and squalane — all of which are considered safe for topical use during pregnancy. It does contain parabens (methylparaben and propylparaben), which are approved as safe at cosmetic concentrations by the EU and FDA. Hada Labo Malaysia has also officially confirmed their products are safe for pregnant and breastfeeding mothers.
No. This cream is not considered fungal acne safe. It contains Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (a medium-chain fatty acid ester) and PEG-20 Sorbitan Isostearate (a polysorbate), both of which are known triggers for malassezia folliculitis. If you are prone to fungal acne, consider alternatives like the COSRX Hyaluronic Acid Intensive Cream or look for the Hada Labo Gokujyun Lotion (toner), which has a simpler formula that is fungal acne safe.
Yes. This cream is a basic hydrating moisturizer with no active exfoliants or pH-dependent ingredients, so it pairs well with virtually any active in your routine. It works especially well as a soothing, hydrating layer after retinol or exfoliating acids. Apply your actives first (vitamin C, AHA, BHA, or retinol), wait for them to absorb, then seal with this cream. The squalane and hyaluronic acid will help counteract any dryness or irritation from potent actives.
This cream is best suited for dry, normal, and sensitive skin types. Its rich texture and squalane content make it a powerhouse for dehydrated or dry skin, especially in colder months. Normal and combination skin can use it comfortably in the evening. It may feel too heavy for very oily skin during the daytime, but can still work well as a nighttime moisturizer for oily types who need extra hydration.
You will feel immediate softness and hydration after the first application. Visible improvements in dryness, flaking, and skin texture typically appear within 1–2 weeks of consistent daily use. For longer-term benefits like improved skin elasticity and a stronger moisture barrier, expect to see noticeable differences after 4–6 weeks of regular use morning and night.
This cream goes near the end of your routine as a moisturizer. The standard order is: Cleanser → Toner/Lotion → Essence → Serum → Eye Cream → This Cream → Sunscreen (AM only). It works as an occlusive layer that seals in all previous hydrating and treatment steps. For best results, apply on damp skin or over a hydrating toner like the Hada Labo Gokujyun Lotion.
This cream has a low comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. Most of the key ingredients — squalane (0), glycerin (0), dimethicone (1), and hyaluronic acid (0) — are non-comedogenic. The fatty alcohols present (behenyl alcohol at 2, stearyl alcohol at 2) contribute a slight risk, but the overall formula is unlikely to clog pores for most people. As always, individual skin can react differently, so patch testing is recommended if you are particularly breakout-prone.
The cream has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal freshness and effectiveness. The 50g jar typically lasts 4–6 weeks with twice-daily use on the face and neck. To extend shelf life and maintain hygiene, always use a clean spatula rather than fingers to scoop product from the jar, and store it in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.
Verdict: The Hada Labo Gokujyun Hyaluronic Cream is a reliable, no-nonsense Japanese moisturizer that delivers impressive hydration at a budget-friendly price. Its minimal 19-ingredient formula with dual hyaluronic acid and squalane makes it an excellent choice for dry, normal, and sensitive skin. The fragrance-free, pregnancy-safe formulation earns extra points for inclusivity. However, the open jar packaging, paraben preservatives, and lack of fungal acne safety keep it from a perfect score. If deep hydration from a simple, well-formulated cream is what you need, this cult-favorite J-beauty moisturizer is hard to beat for the price.
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
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.