Gokujyun Super Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizing Lotion (Rich)
Gokujyun Super Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizing Lotion (Rich)
Product Description
Product overview
A cult-favorite Japanese hydrating toner featuring 4 types of hyaluronic acid including Super HA and Fermented HA. This rich, viscous formula delivers multi-layer hydration to plump, soften, and prepare skin for subsequent skincare steps. A staple in J-Beauty routines worldwide.
Multi-Layer Hydration
Four types of hyaluronic acid work at different skin depths to provide comprehensive, long-lasting hydration from surface to deeper layers.
Texture & feel
SENSORYMulti-Layer Hydration
Four types of hyaluronic acid work at different skin depths to provide comprehensive, long-lasting hydration from surface to deeper layers.
Super Hyaluronic Acid
Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate has twice the moisture retention capacity of regular HA and adheres better to skin for prolonged hydration.
Fermented HA Technology
Lactococcus/HA Ferment Filtrate provides anti-inflammatory benefits while reinforcing the skin's natural moisture barrier.
Clean, Minimal Formula
Only 15 carefully selected ingredients. Free from fragrance, alcohol, oils, parabens, and colorants for sensitive skin compatibility.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEHyaluronic acid is considered completely safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It is naturally occurring in the body and does not penetrate systemically when applied topically.
Safe for nursing mothers. Topical HA has minimal systemic absorption and poses no risk to breast milk or infants.
Contains no ferments, fatty acids, esters, or polysorbates that feed malassezia yeast. Verified safe for fungal acne-prone skin.
Comedogenic rating of 0-1 out of 5. Oil-free, lightweight formula that won't clog pores or cause breakouts.
Patch tested for sensitive skin. Formulated at skin-friendly mildly acidic pH (5.0-6.0) to respect the skin's natural barrier.
Safe to use with retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, BHAs, and niacinamide. Layering order: apply this lotion first, then actives.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSodium HyaluronateProven
The salt form of hyaluronic acid, a powerful humectant that can hold up to 1000x its weight in water. This standard molecular weight HA forms a moisture-retaining layer on the skin's surface.
- Function: Surface-level hydration and moisture barrier formation
- Molecular Weight: High (1-2 million Da) - stays on skin surface
- Research: Extensively studied, gold-standard hydrating ingredient
Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate (Super HA)Proven
A modified form of HA where acetyl groups act as tiny "anchors" to help the molecule adhere better to skin. Claims twice the moisture retention capacity of regular HA.
- Function: Enhanced moisture retention with longer-lasting hydration
- Benefit: Less sticky, more elegant texture than regular HA
- Research: Manufacturer studies show improved skin affinity
Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate (Mini/Nano HA)Promising
A low molecular weight, chemically chopped up version of HA with smaller molecules (around 10kDa) that can penetrate deeper into the skin layers.
- Function: Deep-layer hydration and moisture delivery
- Molecular Weight: Low (10kDa) - penetrates stratum corneum
- Benefit: Works synergistically with high MW HA for multi-layer hydration
Lactococcus/Hyaluronic Acid Ferment FiltratePromising
A fermented form of hyaluronic acid using lactococcus bacteria. Provides anti-inflammatory benefits and helps reinforce the skin's natural moisture barrier.
- Function: Barrier support and anti-inflammatory action
- Technology: Bio-fermentation process
- Benefit: Added in 2020 reformulation for enhanced skin calming
DiglycerinProven
The "big brother" of glycerin - a natural moisturizing factor that penetrates slower but provides longer-lasting moisture with a less sticky feel.
- Function: Long-lasting humectant and moisture retention
- Benefit: Better skin-feel than regular glycerin
- Safety: Skin-identical ingredient, extremely well-tolerated
15 ingredients
Water, Butylene Glycol, Pentylene Glycol, Dipropylene Glycol, PPG-10 Methyl Glucose Ether, Diglycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Disodium Succinate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Disodium EDTA, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Succinic Acid, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Lactococcus/Hyaluronic Acid Ferment Filtrate
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEIn Japanese skincare, "lotion" means hydrating toner. Apply to damp skin after cleansing for best results. Can layer 2-4 times for intense hydration (7-skin method).
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Face
Start with clean skin. Double cleanse if wearing makeup or sunscreen. Pat face until slightly damp - not completely dry.
Dispense Product
Pour a nickel-sized amount (about 3-4 drops) onto your palm. The rich texture means a little goes a long way.
Pat Into Skin
Gently press and pat the lotion into your face and neck. Avoid rubbing. The product should feel slightly tacky as it absorbs.
Layer If Desired
For extra hydration, apply 2-4 layers using the "7-skin method." Wait until each layer feels tacky before applying the next.
Follow With Moisturizer
Seal in the hydration with a moisturizer or facial oil. This prevents the hyaluronic acid from drawing moisture away from your skin in dry climates.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dry, dehydrated, or flaky skin
- You want a fragrance-free, minimal formula
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding
- You have fungal acne (malassezia)
- You use retinoids and need extra hydration
- You want plump, bouncy, "mochi" skin
- You prefer J-Beauty minimalist routines
- You want a budget-friendly HA product
Consider alternatives if:
- You live in very dry/low humidity climates (layer with occlusive)
- You dislike the tacky feeling during absorption
- You prefer a one-step moisturizer (this needs to be sealed in)
- You want anti-aging actives like retinol or vitamin C
- You prefer lightweight, watery textures (try the Light version)
- You want a serum with higher active concentrations
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESPerfect match! The rich formula delivers intense hydration. Layer multiple times for extra moisture and always seal with a cream.
Ideal for skin lacking water. Multiple HA types work at different depths to replenish moisture throughout skin layers.
Works well for balancing hydration. Apply lighter layers on oily zones, more layers on dry areas.
Rich texture may feel heavy. Consider the Light version instead, or use sparingly. Still beneficial for dehydrated oily skin.
Fragrance-free, minimal ingredients, and mildly acidic pH make this ideal for reactive skin. Patch test first if very sensitive.
Non-comedogenic, oil-free, and fungal acne safe. Won't clog pores or feed acne-causing bacteria/yeast.
Results timeline
8+ WEEKSInstant Hydration Boost
Skin feels plumper, softer, and more supple immediately after application. Surface dryness visibly reduced. Slight tackiness during absorption.
95% noticed immediate hydrationImproved Skin Texture
Consistent use leads to smoother skin texture. Dry patches and flakiness significantly reduced. Skin appears more bouncy and "mochi-like."
80% noticed texture improvementEnhanced Skin Barrier
Strengthened moisture barrier reduces transepidermal water loss. Skin retains hydration longer throughout the day. Less reactive to environmental stressors.
75% reported better barrier functionLong-Term Plumpness
Fine dehydration lines appear reduced. Overall complexion looks healthier and more radiant. Product becomes a staple many users never want to be without.
85% became repeat purchasersRatings by platform
21K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Exceptional hydration with 4 types of HA
- Clean, minimal ingredient list (15 ingredients)
- Fragrance-free and alcohol-free formula
- Safe for pregnancy, breastfeeding, and fungal acne
- Affordable price point for the quantity
- Large 170ml bottle lasts 3-4 months
- Mildly acidic pH respects skin barrier
- Can be layered for intensive hydration
- Works well under makeup
- Cult favorite status - proven track record
Criticized
- Tacky/sticky feeling during absorption
- Rich texture may be too heavy for oily skin
- Needs to be sealed with moisturizer
- Can draw moisture from skin in dry climates
- Plain packaging - not aesthetically exciting
- Multiple formulations cause confusion
- Not available in all countries easily
- Contains phenoxyethanol preservative
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Simpler formula with 2 molecular weights of HA plus vitamin B5. More serum-like texture vs toner. Smaller 30ml size means less value per ml. No fermented HA.
K-Beauty alternative with multiple HA types. Slightly thinner, more watery texture. Contains additional soothing ingredients like beta-glucan. 200ml larger size.
K-Beauty favorite with HA plus amino acids and plant extracts. Has light natural fragrance (unscented version available). More multi-functional but less HA-focused.
Different product type - cream vs toner. Contains HA plus niacinamide and panthenol. Occlusive finish means no need for additional moisturizer. For those wanting all-in-one.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEHada Labo Gokujyun Rich
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Use within one year of first opening for optimal efficacy and safety.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Room temperature is fine; no refrigeration required. Keep cap tightly closed.
Plastic flip-top bottle made with recyclable materials. Not airless pump - minimize air exposure by closing promptly after use.
Yes, 170ml exceeds carry-on liquid limits (100ml). Transfer to smaller container for flights or pack in checked luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, this product is completely safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in our bodies and does not penetrate systemically when applied topically. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or other ingredients to avoid during pregnancy. The entire Gokujyun line is formulated with gentle, pregnancy-safe ingredients.
Yes, this product is fungal acne safe. It contains no ferments (the fermented HA is safe as it's a filtrate), fatty acids, fatty alcohols, esters, polysorbates, or oils that can feed malassezia yeast. The formula has been verified by multiple fungal acne-safe product databases including SkinSort and Folliculitis Scout. It's one of the most recommended hydrating toners for those with malassezia folliculitis.
Yes, this lotion is compatible with all common actives. It's particularly beneficial when using retinoids as it helps combat dryness and irritation. Apply this lotion first to damp skin, wait until absorbed, then apply your actives. For vitamin C serums, some prefer to apply vitamin C first to bare skin, then this lotion. For AHAs/BHAs, wait 15-20 minutes after acids before applying this lotion. The hydration actually helps buffer potential irritation from actives.
This Rich version is ideal for dry, dehydrated, mature, and sensitive skin types. It's also excellent for those using drying treatments like retinoids or benzoyl peroxide. If you have oily skin or live in humid climates, consider the Light version instead, which has a thinner, more watery texture. Combination skin can use the Rich version sparingly or focus it on drier areas like cheeks.
You'll notice immediate hydration and plumping effect right after the first application. Surface dryness and flakiness typically improve within 1-2 weeks of consistent use. For significant skin barrier improvements and long-term hydration benefits, expect 4-8 weeks of regular use (morning and night). The effects are cumulative - many users report their skin holds onto moisture better over time.
Apply after cleansing (and toning, if you use a separate toner) but before serums and moisturizers. The key is to apply to damp skin - hyaluronic acid needs water to work with. Don't let your face fully dry after cleansing. In Japanese skincare, this is used as a "lotion" (hydrating toner) step. Always follow with a moisturizer or occlusive to seal in the hydration. Order: Cleanser → (Toner) → This Lotion → Serum → Moisturizer → Sunscreen.
No, this product has a comedogenic rating of 0-1 out of 5, meaning it's highly unlikely to clog pores. It's oil-free, contains no heavy emollients or waxes, and is specifically formulated to be non-comedogenic. Hyaluronic acid itself has a comedogenic rating of 0. The product is safe for acne-prone skin and is actually often recommended for those dealing with acne who need hydration without risking breakouts.
The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for best results and safety. The 170ml bottle typically lasts 3-4 months with twice-daily use (less if you layer multiple times). Look for the symbol on the packaging showing "12M" inside an open jar icon. Store in a cool, dry place and keep the cap tightly closed to maintain product integrity.
Verdict: Hada Labo Gokujyun Super Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizing Lotion (Rich) earns its cult-favorite status as one of the best value hydrating toners on the market. With 4 types of hyaluronic acid, a minimal 15-ingredient formula, and exceptional safety profile (pregnancy, fungal acne, and sensitive skin safe), it delivers serious hydration without the serious price tag. The rich texture may feel sticky during absorption and won't suit everyone - those with oily skin should try the Light version. Always follow with a moisturizer to seal in benefits. A staple that belongs in every J-Beauty routine for dry, dehydrated, or sensitive skin types seeking bouncy, plump "mochi skin."
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 2 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Pentylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Dipropylene Glycol
Fragrance, Solvent, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Masking, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 0 |
PPG-10 Methyl Glucose Ether
Skin Conditioning
|
|