Gokujyun Premium Hyaluronic Acid Lotion
Gokujyun Premium Hyaluronic Acid Lotion
Product Description
Product overview
A cult-favorite Japanese hydrating toner featuring 7 types of hyaluronic acid that delivers serum-level moisture in a lightweight, fast-absorbing formula. This premium lotion wraps skin in intense hydration, leaving it plump, dewy, and incredibly soft without any stickiness.
7 Types of Hyaluronic Acid
Multiple molecular weights penetrate different skin layers for comprehensive hydration from surface to deep within.
Texture & feel
SENSORY7 Types of Hyaluronic Acid
Multiple molecular weights penetrate different skin layers for comprehensive hydration from surface to deep within.
Fermented HA Technology
World's first fermented hyaluronic acid using lactic acid bacteria delivers superior water retention ability.
Barrier Strengthening
Mildly acidic pH formula helps strengthen the skin's moisture barrier after cleansing.
Serum-Level Moisture
Rich, essence-like texture delivers intense hydration comparable to a serum but in a toner format.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or other ingredients to avoid during pregnancy. Safe for expecting and nursing mothers.
Contains 0 fungal acne triggers. No fermented ingredients that feed malassezia, no fatty acids, oils, or esters that cause issues.
Comedogenic rating of 0/5. Oil-free formula won't clog pores or cause breakouts.
Free from common irritants including fragrance, alcohol, essential oils, and dyes. Mildly acidic pH matches healthy skin.
Gentle, hydrating formula suitable for eczema-prone skin. No harsh surfactants or irritating ingredients.
No animal-derived ingredients. Hyaluronic acid is biotechnology-derived (fermentation), not from animal sources.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSodium Hyaluronate (Regular HA)Proven
The classic form of hyaluronic acid that forms a moisture-retention barrier on the skin's surface, preventing transepidermal water loss and keeping skin hydrated throughout the day.
- Function: Surface hydration and moisture barrier formation
- Research: Can bind up to 1000x its weight in water
- Molecular Weight: High (stays on surface)
Super Hyaluronic Acid (Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate)Proven
A modified HA with acetyl groups that act as "anchors" to attach more firmly to skin. Has twice the moisture retention capacity of regular HA for longer-lasting hydration.
- Function: Enhanced moisture retention and skin adhesion
- Benefit: 2x more moisture retention than standard HA
- Texture: Less sticky, more cosmetically elegant
Nano Hyaluronic Acid (Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid)Proven
Low molecular weight HA that penetrates deeper into the skin layers. Provides hydration from within and helps improve skin elasticity.
- Function: Deep penetration hydration
- Research: Studies show improved elasticity and reduced wrinkle depth
- Molecular Weight: Low (penetrates deeper layers)
Skin-Adsorbing HA (Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate)Proven
A cationic (positively charged) HA that adheres strongly to negatively charged skin cells. Creates a protective film that locks moisture in place.
- Function: Superior skin adhesion
- Benefit: Stays on skin even after rinsing
- Result: Long-lasting hydration effect
3D Hyaluronic Acid (Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer)Proven
A cross-linked HA that creates a three-dimensional moisture network on the skin. Provides structural support and sustained hydration release.
- Function: Creates 3D moisture mesh
- Benefit: Time-release hydration
- Structure: Cross-linked for stability
Fermented HA (Lactococcus/Hyaluronic Acid Ferment Filtrate)Innovative
World's first fermented hyaluronic acid using sake-producing lactic acid bacteria. Results in exceptionally high water retention ability.
- Function: Superior water retention
- Technology: Fermented by lactic acid bacteria
- Innovation: First-of-its-kind ingredient
Penetrating HA (Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate)Proven
Ultra-low molecular weight HA designed to travel deepest into the stratum corneum. Delivers moisture to the innermost accessible skin layers.
- Function: Deepest penetration
- Molecular Weight: Ultra-low
- Target: Deep stratum corneum
Hydroxyethyl Urea SupportingProven
A derivative of urea that works as a powerful humectant with moisturizing ability similar to glycerin. Helps improve skin texture and smoothness.
- Function: Humectant and skin softener
- Benefit: Non-irritating moisture booster
- Comparison: Moisturizing ability similar to glycerin
29 ingredients
Water, Butylene Glycol, Hydroxyethyl Urea, Pentylene Glycol, PPG-10 Methyl Glucose Ether, Dipropylene Glycol, Diglycerin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Acetylhyaluronate, Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Lactococcus/Hyaluronic Acid Ferment Filtrate, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Aphanothece Sacrum Polysaccharides, Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysate, Glycosyl Trehalose, Sorbitol, Carbomer, Xanthan Gum, Disodium Succinate, Propanediol, Potassium Hydroxide, Succinic Acid, Disodium EDTA, Polyquaternium-51, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, Hydroxyethyl Cellulose, Phenoxyethanol
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply to damp skin immediately after cleansing for best results. Can be layered 2-3 times for extra hydration ("7 skin method").
How to use
HOW TO USEStart with Damp Skin
After cleansing, leave your skin slightly damp. HA works best when it has water to draw into the skin. You can also spritz with a face mist.
Dispense Product
Shake 2-3 drops into the palm of your hand. A little goes a long way due to the thick, concentrated texture.
Press Into Skin
Gently press and pat the lotion onto your face and neck. Avoid rubbing or pulling. Let skin drink it in.
Layer if Needed
For extra dehydrated skin, apply 2-3 layers using the "7 skin method." Wait a few seconds between each layer.
Seal with Moisturizer
Always follow with a moisturizer or occlusive to lock in the hydration. HA needs to be sealed to prevent evaporation.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dehydrated or chronically dry skin
- You want plump, bouncy, "glass skin" look
- You're using drying actives like retinol or acids
- You prefer fragrance-free, minimal ingredient products
- You have sensitive, eczema-prone, or reactive skin
- You want to layer multiple hydrating products
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding
- You have fungal acne concerns
Consider alternatives if:
- You prefer very lightweight, watery toners
- You live in extremely dry/low humidity climate (may need heavier occlusive)
- You dislike thick or gel-like textures
- You want anti-aging actives in your toner (no retinol, vitamin C here)
- You're looking for exfoliating properties
- You prefer products with noticeable scent
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESHoly grail for dry skin! The rich, serum-like texture delivers intense hydration that dry skin craves. Layer multiple times for maximum plumpness.
Oil-free formula absorbs well without adding greasiness. Use sparingly in summer. Some may prefer the lighter regular Gokujyun version.
Balances well across different face zones. Apply more on dry areas, less on T-zone. Perfect year-round hydration solution.
Fragrance-free, alcohol-free, minimal ingredients. Perfect for reactive skin. Mildly acidic pH respects skin barrier.
Non-comedogenic (0/5 rating), oil-free, fungal acne safe. Won't clog pores or trigger breakouts. Helps support skin barrier during acne treatments.
Multiple HA types plump fine lines and improve elasticity. Helps restore natural HA levels that decline with age. Great prep for anti-aging products.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Instant Hydration Boost
Skin feels immediately softer, more supple, and visibly plumped. Dewy, glowing appearance right after application.
95% noticedImproved Skin Texture
Reduced dry patches and flakiness. Skin feels bouncy and elastic. Makeup applies more smoothly. Less tightness after cleansing.
85% noticedStrengthened Moisture Barrier
Skin retains hydration longer throughout the day. Less reactive to environmental stressors. Fine dehydration lines appear reduced.
80% noticedLong-Term Plumpness
Visible improvement in skin's natural hydration levels. Overall healthier, more resilient skin. "Glass skin" effect becomes more consistent.
75% noticedRatings by platform
21K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Incredible hydration - skin feels plump and bouncy
- 7 types of HA target all skin layers
- Fragrance-free, sensitive skin friendly
- Pregnancy and fungal acne safe
- Excellent value - 170ml lasts 3-4 months
- Layers beautifully under other products
- Visible improvement in dehydration lines
- Non-comedogenic, won't cause breakouts
Criticized
- Thick texture may be too heavy for some
- Can feel sticky if not followed by moisturizer
- May pill under certain products
- Less effective in very low humidity
- Multiple formulations cause confusion
- Plain packaging not luxurious
- Some find it too rich for summer
- Needs occlusive to seal in moisture
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Simpler formula with 3 molecular weights of HA vs 7. Lighter texture, smaller size (30ml). Good starter HA serum but less comprehensive hydration.
K-beauty alternative with 5 types of HA plus ceramides and panthenol. Lighter, more watery texture. Better for oily skin. Contains soothing centella.
Simpler Korean alternative with multiple HA weights. More watery consistency. Good for those who find Hada Labo too thick. 200ml bottle offers more product.
Same brand, lighter formula with 4 types of HA. More watery texture, better for oily skin or summer. Less intensive but still effective hydration.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Check the back of bottle for PAO symbol.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Room temperature is fine. No refrigeration needed.
Sturdy plastic squeeze bottle with flip-top cap. Easy to control dispensing. Refill pouches available in Japan.
Yes, 170ml exceeds 100ml carry-on limit. Decant into smaller container for flights or purchase travel size.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes! This product is completely safe for pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreens, or any other ingredients typically flagged for pregnant/nursing mothers. The formula consists primarily of hyaluronic acid and hydrating humectants that are perfectly safe during pregnancy.
Yes! According to multiple fungal acne databases, this product contains 0 fungal acne triggers. It's free from fatty acids, oils, esters, and polysorbates that feed malassezia. It's a holy grail product for many dealing with fungal acne. Note: The 2020+ formulation removed problematic parabens.
Absolutely! This product pairs excellently with all active ingredients. Apply it after cleansing and before your actives (for watery actives) or after actives (for cream-based retinols). It helps buffer irritation from strong actives and maintains hydration during retinol adjustment periods. The gentle, pH-balanced formula won't interfere with acid effectiveness.
This product is excellent for dry, dehydrated, combination, sensitive, and mature skin types. It's a holy grail for extremely dry skin. Oily skin types may find it slightly heavy—consider the regular Gokujyun Lotion (white bottle) instead, or use the Premium sparingly. It's also perfect for those using drying acne treatments or retinoids.
You'll notice immediate results—skin feels plumper and more hydrated right after application. Within 1-2 weeks, you'll see improved texture and reduced dry patches. After 3-4 weeks of consistent use, your skin's moisture barrier will be noticeably stronger, and dehydration lines will appear reduced. Full benefits are seen with continued daily use.
Apply immediately after cleansing, on damp skin. In the Japanese routine, it's the "lotion" step (which means toner/essence). Follow with serum, then moisturizer, then sunscreen (AM). For maximum hydration, you can apply 2-3 layers using the "7 skin method." Always seal with a moisturizer to lock in the hydration.
No, this product has a comedogenic rating of 0/5 and is completely non-comedogenic. The oil-free, silicone-free formula will not clog pores. It's safe for acne-prone skin and is actually recommended for those dealing with breakouts as it provides hydration without contributing to congestion.
The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. With twice-daily use, the 170ml bottle typically lasts 3-4 months since only a small amount is needed per application. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Check for any changes in color, texture, or smell before use if you've had it for a while.
Verdict: The Hada Labo Gokujyun Premium Hyaluronic Acid Lotion is a cult-favorite for good reason. With 7 types of hyaluronic acid targeting every skin layer, fragrance-free formula safe for sensitive skin, and pregnancy/fungal acne-safe credentials, it delivers exceptional hydration at an unbeatable price point. The thick, serum-like texture may not suit everyone, but for those seeking intense, lasting hydration—especially during dry winters or while using drying actives—this Japanese drugstore gem is hard to beat. A must-try for any skincare enthusiast seeking the coveted "glass skin" look.
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 1 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Pentylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Dipropylene Glycol
Fragrance, Solvent, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Masking, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 1 |
Diglycerin
Humectant, Skin Conditioning, Solvent
|
|