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Gokujyun Premium Super Hyaluronic Lotion

Gokujyun Premium Super Hyaluronic Lotion

Product Description

Product overview

Made in Japan J-BEAUTY

A cult-favorite Japanese hydrating toner with 7 types of hyaluronic acid that delivers serum-level moisture in a lightweight, viscous texture. This fragrance-free, oil-free formula plumps and deeply hydrates all skin types, earning its reputation as one of the best hyaluronic acid products on the market.

Fragrance-Free Oil-Free Alcohol-Free Colorant-Free Paraben-Free (2020+) 7 Types of Hyaluronic Acid Fungal Acne Safe Pregnancy Safe Mildly Acidic pH (5.0–5.5)
Pregnancy
Yes
Fungal Acne
Yes
Comedogenic
1/5
Size
170ml / 5.7 fl oz
Price Range
$14 – $20
Type
Hydrating Toner
Key Active
7 Types of HA
pH Level
~5.0 – 5.5
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

7 Types of Hyaluronic Acid

Multi-molecular weight HA complex targets every layer of the skin for deep, lasting hydration from surface to inner layers.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Thick, Serum-Like
Scent
Fragrance-Free
Absorption
15–30 Seconds
Finish
Dewy, Plump

7 Types of Hyaluronic Acid

Multi-molecular weight HA complex targets every layer of the skin for deep, lasting hydration from surface to inner layers.

Urea Derivative (Hydroxyethyl Urea)

A gentle NMF (Natural Moisturizing Factor) that softens rough, flaky skin and boosts hydration without irritation.

Sacran (Aphanothece Sacrum)

A patented algae-derived polysaccharide with anti-inflammatory properties that strengthens the skin barrier and retains moisture.

Minimal, Clean Formula

Free from fragrance, alcohol, oils, colorants, and parabens. Formulated at a mildly acidic pH to respect the skin's natural barrier.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe

Contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen filters. All ingredients are considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Safe

Free from fatty acids, oils, esters, and polysorbates that feed Malassezia yeast. Confirmed 0 fungal acne triggers by multiple ingredient databases.

Low Comedogenic Rating (1/5)

Only butylene glycol rates a 1 on the comedogenic scale. Oil-free formula is very unlikely to clog pores.

Sensitive Skin Friendly

Fragrance-free, alcohol-free, colorant-free, and formulated at a mildly acidic pH (5.0–5.5) matching the skin's natural pH. Patch-tested for sensitive skin.

Works With All Actives

Safe to layer with retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, BHAs, and niacinamide. Best applied before actives as a hydrating buffer or after actives to replenish moisture.

Dry Climate Tip

Hyaluronic acid draws moisture from the air. In very dry climates (below 40% humidity), apply to damp skin and seal with an occlusive moisturizer to prevent reverse moisture loss.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INGREDIENTS

Sodium Hyaluronate (Regular HA)Proven

The sodium salt form of hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring molecule in the skin. Acts as a powerful humectant that holds up to 1,000x its weight in water, providing surface-level hydration and plumping.

  • Function: Forms a moisture-retaining film on the skin surface to prevent transepidermal water loss (TEWL)
  • Research: Extensively studied humectant recognized as a natural moisturizing factor (NMF) found in human skin

Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid (Nano HA)Proven

A low molecular weight form of HA that has been broken down into smaller fragments. These nano-sized molecules can penetrate deeper into the epidermis for inner-layer hydration.

  • Molecular Weight: Very small (under 50 kDa) allowing penetration into deeper skin layers
  • Benefit: Delivers hydration beneath the surface where larger HA molecules cannot reach

Sodium Acetylhyaluronate (Super HA)Proven

A modified HA with acetyl groups replacing some hydroxyl groups. Has 2x the moisture retention capacity of regular HA and better skin adhesion, earning its "Super" designation.

  • Advantage: Acetyl groups act as tiny anchors that attach the molecule firmly to the skin surface
  • Result: Longer-lasting hydration, improved elasticity, and a less sticky texture than standard HA

Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate (Adsorbing HA)Promising

A cationic (positively charged) form of HA designed to electrostatically bond to the negatively charged skin surface. Creates a long-lasting hydrating layer that resists washing off.

  • Mechanism: Electrostatic attraction keeps HA adhered to skin even after rinsing
  • Benefit: Provides persistent hydration that survives cleansing and environmental stress

Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer (3D HA)Promising

A cross-linked form of HA that creates a three-dimensional moisture-retaining network on the skin. This structure holds water more effectively than linear HA molecules.

  • Structure: 3D cross-linked mesh that acts like a moisture reservoir on the skin surface
  • Advantage: Resists breakdown and provides sustained, long-lasting hydration

Fermented Hyaluronic Acid (Lactococcus Ferment)Promising

HA produced through Lactococcus fermentation technology, resulting in ultra-small molecular fragments with enhanced bioavailability for deeper skin penetration.

  • Technology: Rohto's proprietary fermentation process produces extremely fine HA fragments
  • Benefit: Enhanced penetration and biocompatibility for improved deep-layer moisture delivery

Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate (Penetrating HA)Promising

An ultra-low molecular weight derivative designed to penetrate the deepest reachable layers of the stratum corneum, delivering moisture where dehydration begins.

  • Size: Among the smallest HA derivatives available, targeting the deepest layers of the epidermis
  • Innovation: First time Hada Labo incorporated this penetration-type HA into their formulations

Hydroxyethyl Urea High in formulaProven

A gentle, non-exfoliating derivative of urea — a naturally occurring NMF (Natural Moisturizing Factor) in the skin. Softens rough texture, boosts hydration, and enhances the penetration of other ingredients.

  • Function: Humectant and skin-conditioning agent that reduces flakiness and improves skin texture
  • Safety: Non-irritating at cosmetic concentrations, well-tolerated even by sensitive skin

Sacran (Aphanothece Sacrum Exopolysaccharides)Promising

A rare polysaccharide extracted from Aphanothece Sacrum, a freshwater algae found only in Kyushu, Japan. Has remarkable water-retention properties and anti-inflammatory benefits.

  • Origin: Extracted from a Japanese freshwater cyanobacterium, designated a natural monument in Japan
  • Research: Studies show barrier-strengthening and anti-inflammatory effects, helping calm irritated or sensitive skin
Sacran has been shown to improve skin barrier function and reduce inflammation, making this product particularly beneficial for sensitive or compromised skin.

33 ingredients

Water, Butylene Glycol, Hydroxyethyl Urea, Pentylene Glycol, PPG-20 Methyl Glucose Ether, Dipropylene Glycol, Diglycerin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid (Nano Hyaluronic Acid), Sodium Acetylhyaluronate (Super Hyaluronic Acid), Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer (3D Hyaluronic Acid), Lactococcus Ferment/Hyaluronic Acid Ferment Filtrate (Fermented Hyaluronic Acid), Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Aphanothece Sacrum Exopolysaccharides (Sacran), Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysate, Glycosyl Trehalose, Sorbitol, Triethyl Citrate, PEG-32, Carbomer, PEG-75, Disodium Succinate, Propanediol, Diethoxyethyl Succinate, Potassium Hydroxide, Succinic Acid, Disodium EDTA, Polyquaternium-51, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Xanthan Gum, Phenoxyethanol

FREE FROM: Fragrance, Alcohol (Ethanol), Mineral Oil, Colorants, Parabens (2020+ version), Silicones, Sulfates, Essential Oils, Gluten, Coconut derivatives
04

Where it fits in your routine

ROUTINE
1
Cleanser
2
Toner
3
This Product
4
Serum
5
Moisturizer
6
Sunscreen

Apply after cleansing on damp skin. Can also be used directly after a watery toner. In J-beauty, this is your "lotion" step — a hydrating layer applied before serums and moisturizers. Use AM & PM.

05

How to use

HOW TO USE
1

Cleanse & Leave Skin Damp

After cleansing, do not fully dry your face. HA works best on damp skin, pulling that surface moisture deep into the skin layers.

2

Dispense 2–3 Drops

Squeeze a coin-sized amount into your palms. A little goes a long way — the thick, viscous texture spreads easily across the entire face and neck.

3

Pat & Press Into Skin

Gently press and pat the lotion onto your face, neck, and décolletage with your palms. Avoid rubbing. The pressing motion helps the product absorb into the skin.

4

Layer If Desired

For extra hydration (especially in dry climates or winter), apply 2–3 thin layers using the "7-skin method," letting each layer partially absorb before the next.

5

Seal With Moisturizer

Always follow with a moisturizer or occlusive to lock in the hydration. This is essential — HA pulls moisture from the air, but needs to be sealed in place.

06

Who is it for?

WHO

Perfect for you if:

  • You have dry, dehydrated, or flaky skin that needs deep hydration
  • You want a fragrance-free, minimal-irritant hydrating toner
  • You use retinol or exfoliating acids and need a soothing hydration layer
  • You have fungal acne and need a safe, non-triggering product
  • You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need a clean hydrating step
  • You want a multi-layer hydrating product for the 7-skin method
  • You want exceptional value — 170ml lasts 3–4 months of daily use

Consider alternatives if:

  • You live in an extremely dry climate (below 30% humidity) and don't use an occlusive on top
  • You prefer a very watery, lightweight toner — this has a thick, serum-like texture
  • You're looking for anti-aging actives like retinol, peptides, or vitamin C (this is purely hydrating)
  • You dislike the slightly tacky feel that HA products can leave before moisturizer
  • You need a travel-size product (170ml exceeds carry-on liquid limits)
07

Skin type compatibility

SKIN TYPES
Dry Skin
Excellent

This product was practically made for dry skin. The 7 types of HA deliver intense, multi-layer hydration that plumps and softens even the driest skin. Follow with a rich moisturizer to seal it in.

Dehydrated Skin
Excellent

A hydration powerhouse for water-starved skin. Replenishes moisture at every layer. Users consistently report visibly plumper, bouncier skin from the first application.

Oily Skin
Good

Oil-free and non-comedogenic, so it won't add greasiness. The thicker texture may feel heavy for some oily skin types — consider the regular (non-Premium) version if you find it too rich.

Combination Skin
Excellent

Hydrates dry areas without overloading oily zones. The lightweight, non-greasy formula balances well across different face zones. Use a thinner layer on the T-zone if needed.

Sensitive Skin
Excellent

Fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and pH-balanced. Contains soothing Sacran. Patch-tested for sensitive skin. One of the most well-tolerated hydrating toners on the market.

Acne-Prone Skin
Excellent

Non-comedogenic (1/5), oil-free, and fungal acne safe. A go-to hydrator for acne-prone routines, especially when using drying treatments like benzoyl peroxide or retinoids.

Mature Skin
Excellent

HA levels naturally decline with age. This replenishes hydration at multiple skin depths, visibly plumping fine lines and restoring a youthful, dewy radiance. Pairs perfectly with anti-aging serums.

08

Results timeline

2 – 3 MONTHS
Immediately

Instant Plumping & Hydration

Skin feels noticeably softer, dewier, and more supple within minutes of the first application. Fine lines appear visibly reduced due to surface hydration.

90% noticed immediate dewiness
1 – 2 Weeks

Improved Skin Texture & Reduced Flakiness

With consistent daily use, rough patches and dry flakes diminish. Skin feels consistently bouncy and well-hydrated throughout the day. Makeup applies more smoothly.

80% noticed smoother texture
4 – 6 Weeks

Strengthened Moisture Barrier

Skin retains moisture better on its own. Less reactive to environmental stressors. Users report reduced sensitivity and fewer dry patches even in harsh weather.

70% noticed improved moisture retention
2 – 3 Months

Visibly Healthier, Plumper Skin

Long-term hydration leads to a visibly healthier complexion. Fine lines are less pronounced, skin has a natural glow, and overall radiance is improved. Many users call this their "holy grail" by this point.

85% would repurchase
09

Ratings by platform

17K+ REVIEWS
Amazon
4.6
Rating
8,500+
Reviews
Main complaint: Sticky/tacky feel if too much is applied. Some receive older (pre-2020) formulation versions.
YesStyle
4.7
Rating
3,200+
Reviews
Main complaint: Long shipping times. Thicker texture than expected for a "lotion."
Stylevana
4.8
Rating
1,800+
Reviews
Main complaint: Can feel too heavy in humid summer weather for oily skin types.
iHerb
4.7
Rating
2,400+
Reviews
Main complaint: Packaging could be more premium for the "Premium" branding. Plastic flip-top feels basic.
MakeupAlley
4.3
Rating
180+
Reviews
Main complaint: A few users reported closed comedones, likely from the thicker texture or specific HA sensitivity.
Olive Young
4.7
Rating
950+
Reviews
Main complaint: Confusion between different Hada Labo versions. Make sure to select the gold "Premium" bottle.
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • 7 types of hyaluronic acid for multi-depth hydration — unmatched by most competitors
  • Incredible value: 170ml for $14–$20 lasts 3–4 months
  • Completely fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and minimal-irritant
  • Fungal acne safe and pregnancy safe — suits virtually everyone
  • Visible plumping and dewiness from the very first use
  • Eco-friendly biomass packaging with refill pouches available
  • Pairs seamlessly with retinol, vitamin C, and other actives
  • Cult-classic status with tens of thousands of positive reviews worldwide

Criticized

  • Thick, viscous texture may feel sticky or heavy for oily skin in humid weather
  • Basic plastic packaging doesn't feel "premium" despite the name
  • Can cause reverse moisture loss in very dry climates if not sealed with an occlusive
  • 170ml bottle exceeds carry-on liquid limits for air travel
  • Multiple product versions/reformulations can cause confusion when purchasing
  • No anti-aging or brightening actives — purely a hydration product
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
82% Match
Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Serum
$8.90
Budget Pick

Contains 3 molecular weights of HA plus vitamin B5. Simpler formula with fewer HA varieties and no urea or Sacran. Thinner, more serum-like texture. Excellent budget entry into HA but less luxurious and complex than the Hada Labo Premium.

72% Match
Hydrium Watery Toner
$15.00
Similar Price

A lighter, more watery toner with vitamin B5 and allantoin. Uses fewer types of HA but adds panthenol for extra soothing. Better for oily skin that finds the Hada Labo Premium too thick, but less intense hydration overall.

68% Match
Hyaluronic Acid Toner
$16.00
Similar Price

Features 50% hyaluronic acid complex with multiple molecular weights. More watery texture that layers easily. A great K-beauty alternative, but lacks the urea derivative and Sacran that make Hada Labo Premium unique.

65% Match
Kikumasamune High Moist Lotion
$14.00
Budget Pick

A massive 500ml bottle of hydrating Japanese lotion with ceramides, amino acids, and sake extract. Very different approach to hydration. Contains fermented rice which is NOT fungal acne safe. Better value per ml but a completely different formula philosophy.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE
Pycnogenol 5%
Key Ingredient 3 Types of HA + Vitamin B5
Size 30ml
Price per ml $0.30/ml
Fragrance-Free Yes
Fungal Acne Safe Yes
Texture Thin serum
Bonus Ingredients Panthenol (B5)
Supple Preparation Unscented Toner
Key Ingredient HA + Plant Extracts
Size 180ml
Price per ml $0.12/ml
Fragrance-Free No (contains essential oils)
Fungal Acne Safe No
Texture Medium, slightly viscous
Bonus Ingredients Centella, Licorice Root
Cream Skin Cerapeptide Toner & Moisturizer
Key Ingredient Ceramides + Peptides
Size 150ml
Price per ml $0.23/ml
Fragrance-Free No (fragranced)
Fungal Acne Safe No
Texture Milky, creamy
Bonus Ingredients White Tea, Ceramides
13

Storage & shelf life

12 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and high temperatures. No refrigeration required, but avoid leaving in hot cars or humid bathrooms.

Packaging

Recyclable plastic bottle with flip-top cap. The container uses eco-friendly biomass materials. Refill pouches (170ml) are also available to reduce waste.

Travel Friendly

No — 170ml exceeds the 100ml carry-on liquid limit. Decant into a smaller travel container, or purchase the refill pouch and use a reusable travel bottle.

13

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

Yes. This product contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreen filters, or any other ingredients flagged as unsafe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. The formula is comprised entirely of humectants, hyaluronic acid variants, and gentle solvents. It is widely considered safe to use throughout pregnancy and while nursing. As always, consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.

Yes. This product has been confirmed as fungal acne safe by multiple ingredient analysis databases including Folliculitis Scout and SkinCarisma, with 0 identified fungal acne triggers. It is free from fatty acids, oils, esters, and polysorbates that feed Malassezia yeast. Note: the 2020 reformulation includes Lactococcus Ferment, but this fermented ingredient has not been identified as a fungal acne trigger in current databases.

Absolutely. This product is a pure hydrating toner with no actives that conflict with retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, or BHAs. In fact, it is commonly recommended as a hydrating buffer to reduce irritation from these potent actives. Apply it before or after your actives to replenish moisture and keep the skin barrier supported. Many retinol users specifically rely on this product to combat dryness and flaking.

This lotion works well for all skin types but is especially outstanding for dry, dehydrated, sensitive, combination, and mature skin. Oily skin types can still use it but may prefer to apply a thinner layer or opt for the regular (non-Premium) Hada Labo Gokujyun Lotion, which has a lighter texture. Its fragrance-free, oil-free formula makes it particularly suitable for acne-prone and fungal-acne-prone skin.

You will notice immediate plumping and dewiness from the very first application. Within 1–2 weeks of consistent use, skin texture improves and flakiness reduces. By 4–6 weeks, your moisture barrier should be noticeably strengthened. Full results, including improved moisture retention and a healthier overall complexion, are typically seen within 2–3 months of daily AM/PM use.

In the J-beauty routine, this is your "lotion" (hydrating toner) step — applied immediately after cleansing on damp skin, before serums and moisturizers. If you use a watery pH-adjusting toner or exfoliating toner, apply those first, then follow with this product. Always finish with a moisturizer or occlusive to seal in the hydration. Use both morning and evening.

This product has a very low comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. The only potentially comedogenic ingredient is butylene glycol, which rates a 1 — considered negligible. The formula is oil-free and has been widely used by acne-prone individuals without issues. However, a very small number of users have reported closed comedones, which may be due to individual sensitivity to the thick HA texture rather than pore-clogging ingredients. Patch testing is always recommended.

The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. A 170ml bottle typically lasts 3–4 months with daily AM/PM use on the face and neck, so you should easily use it up well before expiration. Store in a cool, dry place and keep the flip-top cap securely closed between uses. Refill pouches are also available and have the same shelf life.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.6 / 5 ★★★★★

Verdict: The Hada Labo Gokujyun Premium Super Hyaluronic Lotion is a deserved cult classic. With 7 types of hyaluronic acid, a gentle urea derivative, and the unique Japanese ingredient Sacran, it delivers unmatched multi-layer hydration at an incredible price point. Its clean, minimal formula is safe for virtually everyone — including pregnant and breastfeeding individuals, those with fungal acne, and sensitive skin. The only drawbacks are its thick texture (which some oily skin types may find too heavy) and the need to always seal it with a moisturizer. If you want one product to transform your skin's hydration, this is it.

Product Overview

question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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.

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Quick Product Notes

Click on icons for more information
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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

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Notable Effects & Ingredients

anti-aging Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid
brightening Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid
wound Promotes Wound Healing from 3 ingredient(s):
Sodium Hyaluronate Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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!

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Ingredients Related to Skin Types

Click on icons for more information
dry-skin Dry Skin
2
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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.

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Ingredient Safety Breakdown

EWG Health Ratings
Low risk
Medium risk
High risk
Unknown risk
63% 3% 33%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 33 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
1 Unknown
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
1 A
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
Hydrating
1 A
Pentylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
0 Unknown
PPG-10 Methyl Glucose Ether
Skin Conditioning
1 A
Dipropylene Glycol
Fragrance, Solvent, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Masking, Viscosity Controlling
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS