Gokujyun Lotion
Gokujyun Lotion
Product Description
Product overview
A cult-favorite Japanese hydrating lotion featuring 4 types of hyaluronic acid to deliver multi-layer moisture. This lightweight, watery toner instantly plumps and hydrates dehydrated skin while strengthening the moisture barrier. A staple in J-beauty routines worldwide.
4 Types of Hyaluronic Acid
Multi-molecular weight HA system penetrates different skin layers for comprehensive hydration from surface to deep dermis.
Texture & feel
SENSORY4 Types of Hyaluronic Acid
Multi-molecular weight HA system penetrates different skin layers for comprehensive hydration from surface to deep dermis.
Fermented HA Technology
Contains Lactococcus/Hyaluronic Acid Ferment Filtrate for enhanced bioavailability and barrier-strengthening benefits.
Clean Formula
Free from fragrance, alcohol, oils, parabens, silicones, and sulfates. Formulated at skin-friendly pH 5.0-6.5.
Layering-Friendly
Watery texture allows for multiple layers (3-7 skins method) without pilling or heaviness for customized hydration.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. All ingredients are considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Free from ferments that feed malassezia, fatty acids, esters, and polysorbates. Verified safe for fungal acne-prone skin.
Comedogenic rating of 0/5. Oil-free, lightweight formula will not clog pores or cause breakouts.
Hypoallergenic formula free from common irritants. Patch tested and suitable for reactive skin types.
Can be layered with retinol products to buffer irritation and boost hydration. Apply before retinol in your routine.
Works well with AHAs, BHAs, and Vitamin C. Use on alternate days or wait 15-20 minutes between acid application.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSodium HyaluronateProven
The salt form of hyaluronic acid with standard molecular weight. Acts as a powerful humectant that can hold up to 1000x its weight in water, providing surface-level hydration and plumping.
- Molecular Weight: High molecular weight for surface hydration
- Function: Forms moisture-retaining film on skin surface
- Research: Extensively studied humectant with proven efficacy
Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate Super HAProven
An acetylated form of hyaluronic acid with enhanced moisture retention. Provides 2x the moisturizing power of regular HA and creates a protective barrier against moisture loss.
- Benefit: Superior water-binding capacity compared to standard HA
- Function: Creates protective moisture barrier
- Duration: Longer-lasting hydration effects
Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid Nano HAProven
Low molecular weight HA that has been broken down into smaller fragments. Penetrates deeper into the skin layers to deliver hydration where it's needed most.
- Molecular Weight: Low MW for deeper penetration
- Penetration: Reaches lower epidermis layers
- Research: Studies show improved elasticity and wrinkle reduction
Lactococcus/Hyaluronic Acid Ferment FiltratePromising
A fermented form of hyaluronic acid created using Lactococcus bacteria. Enhances skin barrier function and provides anti-inflammatory benefits alongside deep hydration.
- Source: Biofermentation technology
- Benefit: Improved barrier function and moisturization
- Function: Anti-aging and soothing properties
GlycerinProven
A classic humectant found naturally in skin. Draws moisture from the environment and deeper skin layers to keep the surface hydrated and protected.
- Efficacy: 2016 study found glycerin more effective than AHAs and HA as a humectant
- Function: Strengthens skin barrier and prevents moisture loss
- Safety: Comedogenic rating 0, suitable for all skin types
16 ingredients
Water, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Diglycerin, PPG-10 Methyl Glucose Ether, Disodium Succinate, Propanediol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Disodium EDTA, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Succinic Acid, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Lactococcus/Hyaluronic Acid Ferment Filtrate, Phenoxyethanol
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after cleansing on damp skin. Can be layered 3-7 times for extra hydration (7-skin method). Always follow with an occlusive moisturizer to seal in hydration.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Prep
Start with clean, damp skin. The lotion works best when applied to slightly wet skin as HA draws in moisture.
Dispense Product
Shake bottle and dispense a quarter-sized amount into your palm. The watery texture flows easily.
Pat Into Skin
Gently pat (don't rub) the lotion into your face and neck. The slight tackiness indicates it's being absorbed.
Layer If Needed
For extra hydration, apply 2-7 layers using the 7-skin method. Wait until each layer feels slightly tacky before applying the next.
Seal With Moisturizer
Always follow with a moisturizer or occlusive to lock in the hydration. HA needs to be sealed to prevent moisture loss.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- Your skin feels tight, dehydrated, or flaky
- You want to plump fine lines and boost skin bounce
- You use retinol and need extra hydration
- You prefer fragrance-free, minimal formulas
- You have fungal acne or are prone to breakouts
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding
- You enjoy layering products (7-skin method)
- You want an affordable J-beauty staple
Consider alternatives if:
- You dislike any tackiness in skincare
- You live in very dry climates without humidity
- You want anti-aging actives (retinol, peptides)
- You need heavy-duty moisturization alone
- You prefer thicker, cream-like textures
- You're looking for a standalone moisturizer
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight, oil-free formula absorbs quickly without adding shine. Perfect for oily skin that's still dehydrated.
Provides excellent hydration boost but requires a heavier moisturizer on top. Try the Premium version for more moisture.
Balances well across different face zones. Hydrates dry areas without overwhelming oily T-zone.
Fragrance-free, minimal formula with no common irritants. Hypoallergenic and patch-tested.
Non-comedogenic (0/5 rating), fungal acne safe, oil-free. Won't clog pores or trigger breakouts.
Multi-weight HA plumps fine lines and improves skin bounce. Consider adding anti-aging actives separately.
Results timeline
8+ WEEKSInstant Hydration Boost
Skin feels immediately plumper, softer, and more supple. Visible reduction in surface dryness and flakiness.
95% noticed immediate hydrationImproved Skin Texture
Consistent use leads to smoother skin texture, reduced tightness, and better absorption of other skincare products.
82% reported smoother skinPlumper, Bouncier Skin
Fine lines appear softened, skin has improved elasticity and bounce. Overall complexion looks more radiant and healthy.
78% noticed plumping effectStrengthened Moisture Barrier
Long-term hydration improvements, skin retains moisture better throughout the day, reduced sensitivity and reactivity.
71% reported improved barrier functionRatings by platform
22K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Incredible value for the amount of product (170ml)
- 4 types of hyaluronic acid for multi-level hydration
- Clean, minimal ingredient list
- Fungal acne and pregnancy safe
- Perfect for layering (7-skin method)
- Fragrance-free and non-irritating
- Makes skin visibly plumper and bouncier
- Works well under makeup
- Suitable for all skin types
Criticized
- Can feel tacky/sticky before fully absorbed
- May not be enough for very dry skin alone
- Requires humid environment or occlusive on top
- Packaging all in Japanese (no English instructions)
- Different versions can be confusing to choose
- Counterfeits common on some marketplaces
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Korean alternative with 5 types of HA in a larger 300ml bottle. Similar watery texture with added panthenol and allantoin for soothing. Slightly more refined texture, less tacky finish.
Budget-friendly option with 3 molecular weights of HA plus vitamin B5. Thicker serum consistency vs watery lotion. Smaller 30ml size means less value per ml but lower entry price.
Korean toner with 5 types of HA and 50% hyaluronic acid complex. Thicker, more viscous texture than Hada Labo. Better for dry skin, may be too heavy for oily types.
Japanese budget alternative with 500ml mega size. Simpler formula with only 1 type of HA. Much lighter hydration, better as a pre-toner or for very oily skin.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Torriden Dive-In Toner
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Check for changes in smell, texture, or color.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Room temperature is ideal; refrigeration not required but won't harm the product.
Plastic squeeze bottle with flip-top cap. Hygienic design prevents contamination. Refill pouches available for eco-friendly repurchase.
170ml bottle exceeds 100ml carry-on limit. Decant into smaller container for air travel or purchase travel-size version.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, Hada Labo Gokujyun Lotion is completely safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreens, or any other ingredients of concern. All four types of hyaluronic acid and supporting ingredients like glycerin and butylene glycol are considered safe for use during pregnancy.
Yes, this product is verified fungal acne safe. It contains no fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates, or ferments that feed malassezia yeast. The formula is oil-free and has been confirmed safe by multiple ingredient analyzers including Skincarisma and SkinSort. Note: While it contains a fermented HA filtrate, this specific ferment has not been shown to trigger fungal acne.
Yes! This lotion pairs excellently with actives. For retinol: Apply the lotion first to create a hydrating buffer, then apply retinol. This can help reduce irritation. For Vitamin C: Apply vitamin C serum first (it needs low pH), wait 15-20 minutes, then apply the lotion. For AHA/BHA: Use acids first, wait 20 minutes, then apply the lotion to rehydrate. Alternatively, use acids and the lotion on alternate days if your skin is sensitive.
This lotion works well for all skin types but is especially excellent for: oily skin (lightweight, oil-free), combination skin (balances hydration), sensitive skin (fragrance-free, minimal formula), and acne-prone skin (non-comedogenic, fungal acne safe). Dry skin types will benefit but should layer multiple applications and follow with a richer moisturizer. Very dry skin may prefer the Premium version which has a thicker, more nourishing texture.
You'll notice immediate hydration and plumping effects after the first application. Within 1-2 weeks of consistent use, skin texture typically improves and feels smoother. After 4-6 weeks, you should see reduced appearance of fine lines and improved skin bounce. Long-term use (8+ weeks) helps strengthen the moisture barrier for better overall hydration retention.
Apply after cleansing (and toning, if you use a separate toner) but before serums and moisturizers. The ideal order is: Cleanser → Toner → Gokujyun Lotion → Serum → Moisturizer → Sunscreen (AM). Pro tip: Apply to damp skin for best absorption, and always follow with a moisturizer to seal in the hydration.
No, this product has a comedogenic rating of 0/5. It is completely oil-free and contains no pore-clogging ingredients. The lightweight, water-based formula absorbs quickly without leaving residue that could clog pores. It's safe for acne-prone skin and has been used successfully by thousands of people with breakout-prone skin.
The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal efficacy. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Signs of expiration include changes in smell, texture becoming lumpy or separated, or color changes. The 170ml bottle typically lasts 2-4 months with daily use, so you'll likely finish it well before expiration.
Verdict: Hada Labo Gokujyun Lotion is a J-beauty cult classic that lives up to its reputation. With 4 types of hyaluronic acid in a clean, minimal formula, it delivers impressive hydration at an unbeatable price point. The watery texture makes it perfect for layering and works beautifully under other products. While the slight tackiness may not appeal to everyone, and very dry climates require an occlusive on top, this remains one of the best value hydrating toners on the market. A must-try for anyone seeking plump, bouncy, well-hydrated skin without irritation. Especially recommended for sensitive, acne-prone, or pregnant skincare enthusiasts looking for a reliable hydration step.
Browse related
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 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Lactococcus/Hyaluronic Acid Ferment Filtrate
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Hyaluronate
Skin Conditioning, Humectant
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid
Humectant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate
Humectant
|
|
|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|