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Hyaluronic Serum UV SPF 50+

Hyaluronic Serum UV SPF 50+

Product Description

Product overview

Made in Various INTERNATIONAL

An ultra-hydrating Japanese sunscreen gel that combines SPF 50+ PA++++ broad-spectrum protection with three types of hyaluronic acid. This alcohol-free, fragrance-free serum-sunscreen hybrid delivers water-light moisture and strong UV defense in a single step — perfect for dry and sensitive skin seeking daily comfort without compromise.

SPF 50+ PA++++ Alcohol-Free Fragrance-Free Paraben-Free Colorant-Free Mineral Oil-Free 3 Types of Hyaluronic Acid Very Water Resistant (80 min) No White Cast Anti-Pollution
Pregnancy
Caution
Fungal Acne
No
Comedogenic
1/5
Size
70g / 2.46 oz
SPF
SPF 50+ PA++++
Type
Chemical
Texture
Watery Gel
Finish
Dewy
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

Quad UV Filter System

Four next-generation chemical filters (Octinoxate, Uvinul A Plus, Uvinul T 150, Tinosorb S) deliver broad-spectrum UVA + UVB coverage with enhanced photostability.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Watery Gel
Scent
Fragrance-Free
Absorption
15–30 seconds
Finish
Dewy

Quad UV Filter System

Four next-generation chemical filters (Octinoxate, Uvinul A Plus, Uvinul T 150, Tinosorb S) deliver broad-spectrum UVA + UVB coverage with enhanced photostability.

Triple Hyaluronic Acid Complex

Highest concentration in the Skin Aqua line — sodium hyaluronate, ultra-low molecular weight HA, and skin-adhering HA hydrate at multiple skin layers.

UV Light Durability Capsule NEO

Rohto's proprietary technology encapsulates UV filters in silica for even, stable, and long-lasting sun protection throughout the day.

Gentle, Clean Formula

Free of ethanol, fragrance, parabens, mineral oil, and colorants. Allergy-tested and designed for dry, sensitive skin types.

Anti-Pollution Shield

Prevents airborne pollutants like PM2.5, pollen, and dust from clinging to skin. Washes off easily with regular cleanser or body soap.

Very Water Resistant

Rated ★★ (highest level in Japan) — retains over 50% of SPF after 80 minutes of water immersion per ISO 18861:2020 standard.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Contains Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (Octinoxate), a chemical UV filter with debated hormonal concerns in animal studies. No retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone present. Consult your doctor if concerned.

Fungal Acne (Malassezia)

NOT fungal acne safe. Contains Polyglyceryl-10 Pentaisostearate (ester) and Isononyl Isononanoate (ester), which can feed malassezia yeast.

Low Comedogenic Risk

Rated 1/5 comedogenic. Most ingredients have a comedogenic rating of 0. Unlikely to clog pores for the majority of users.

Alcohol-Free & Fragrance-Free

No ethanol or added fragrance. Gentle enough for sensitive and reactive skin types. Also free of parabens, mineral oil, and colorants.

Allergy Tested

Tested for allergic reactions. However, individual results may vary — patch testing is recommended for those with highly reactive skin.

Reef Safety Note

Contains Octinoxate, which Hawaii has restricted due to potential coral reef impact. Consider reef-safe alternatives for ocean activities.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INGREDIENTS

Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine (Tinosorb S)Proven

A next-generation broad-spectrum UV filter covering the entire UVA and UVB range (280–400 nm). Highly photostable and helps stabilize other less stable filters like Octinoxate. Considered one of the best UV absorbers available globally.

  • UV Range: Broad-spectrum UVA + UVB (peak at 310 nm & 345 nm)
  • Study (2007): Showed the highest SPF of all 18 EU-permitted sunscreen agents tested at maximum concentration
  • Safety: Does not show estrogenic activity unlike some older chemical filters; minimal skin absorption
Oil-soluble and stays on the skin surface where it works best. Easily removed with an oil-based cleanser at night.

Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate (Uvinul A Plus)Proven

A new-generation chemical sunscreen designed specifically for high UVA protection and photostability. Covers the full UVA range (320–400 nm) with peak protection at 354 nm. Not available in the US or Canada.

  • UV Range: Full UVA spectrum (320–400 nm)
  • Max Concentration: Up to 10% permitted worldwide (except US/Canada)
  • Photostability: Highly photostable, does not degrade significantly under UV exposure

Ethylhexyl Triazone (Uvinul T 150)Proven

A new-generation UVB filter with the highest photostable absorption among all available UVB filters. Oil-soluble, odorless, and colorless — ideal for fragrance-free formulas.

  • UV Range: UVB (280–320 nm), peak at 314 nm
  • Max Concentration: Up to 5% worldwide (except US/Canada)
  • Advantage: Highest absorption coefficient of all available UVB filters

Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (Octinoxate) UVB FilterProven

The most commonly used chemical UVB sunscreen worldwide. Absorbs UVB radiation (280–320 nm) with peak protection at 310 nm. Not very photostable alone, but stabilized by Tinosorb S in this formula.

  • Comedogenicity: 0 (non-comedogenic) |Irritancy: 0
  • Stability: Can lose ~10% effectiveness after 35 min UV exposure alone; stabilized by Tinosorb S here
  • Regulatory: Banned in Hawaii sunscreens due to potential coral reef impact
In vitro and animal studies have shown potential hormonal (estrogen-like) effects. These studies were not conducted on real humans under normal use conditions.

Sodium HyaluronateProven

The salt form of hyaluronic acid — a naturally occurring molecule in the body that can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water. Provides surface-level hydration and helps maintain the skin's moisture barrier.

  • Molecular Weight: High (~1.5 million Da) — forms a hydrating film on the skin surface
  • Function: Humectant that draws moisture to the skin
  • Skin Benefit: Helps skin feel plump, elastic, and well-hydrated

Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate Ultra-Low MWPromising

An ultra-low molecular weight form of hyaluronic acid created through hydrolysis. The smaller molecule size allows deeper penetration into the stratum corneum for hydration from within.

  • Penetration: Travels deeper into the skin compared to standard HA
  • Study (2022): Found to downregulate UV-B induced inflammation
  • Note (2011): One study showed potential pro-inflammatory properties at very low molecular weights

Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate Skin-AdheringPromising

A positively charged form of hyaluronic acid that electrostatically bonds to the negatively charged skin surface. This allows it to adhere to skin better and provide longer-lasting surface hydration.

  • Mechanism: Ionic binding creates stronger adhesion to skin
  • Duration: Longer-lasting moisture retention compared to standard HA
  • Origin: Produced through fermentation process

22 ingredients

Water, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Butylene Glycol, Isononyl Isononanoate, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Ethylhexyl Triazone, Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate, Pentylene Glycol, Dimethicone, Propanediol, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, Silica, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Polyglyceryl-10 Pentaisostearate, Triethanolamine, Bis-PEG-18 Methyl Ether Dimethyl Silane, Disodium EDTA, Xanthan Gum, Phenoxyethanol

FREE FROM: Ethanol (alcohol), Fragrance/Parfum, Parabens, Mineral Oil, Colorants/Dyes, Sulfates, Oxybenzone, Retinoids, Salicylic Acid, Essential Oils
04

Where it fits in your routine

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

Apply as the last step of skincare, before makeup. On minimal skincare days, you can apply directly after cleansing or toner thanks to its hydrating serum-like formula. Always apply sunscreen as the final skincare step for maximum UV protection.

05

How to use

HOW TO USE
1

Dispense Generously

Squeeze a generous amount (approximately two finger-lengths) onto your fingertips. The nozzle tip allows controlled dispensing for precise application.

2

Apply in Layers

Spread a first layer evenly across the face and neck. Wait 30 seconds for it to settle, then apply a second layer for thorough, even coverage. This layering technique prevents uneven protection.

3

Extend to Exposed Areas

Apply to all sun-exposed body areas including ears, neck, and hands. The watery gel formula makes it easy to spread across larger areas without stickiness.

4

Reapply Every 2 Hours

Reapply frequently throughout the day, especially after sweating, swimming, or towel-drying. Despite the 80-minute water resistance, regular reapplication ensures consistent protection.

5

Remove at Night

Washes off with regular face cleanser or body soap — no oil cleanser required. However, double cleansing is recommended for thorough removal if layered with makeup.

06

Who is it for?

WHO

Perfect for you if:

  • You have dry or dehydrated skin and want sunscreen that hydrates
  • You prefer alcohol-free, fragrance-free formulas
  • You want a lightweight, watery texture with no white cast
  • You need high SPF (50+ PA++++) for daily commuting or outdoor activities
  • You want a sunscreen that doubles as a hydrating serum
  • You have sensitive skin that reacts to alcohol-based sunscreens
  • You want a sunscreen suitable as a makeup base

Consider alternatives if:

  • You have fungal acne (malassezia) — contains esters that feed yeast
  • You prefer a fully matte finish (this gives a dewy look)
  • You need a mineral/physical-only sunscreen
  • You want a reef-safe formula (contains Octinoxate)
  • You need a US FDA-approved sunscreen (contains filters not approved in the US)
  • You want a very large bottle — this is 70g only
07

Skin type compatibility

SKIN TYPES
Dry Skin
Excellent

This is where this sunscreen truly shines. The triple hyaluronic acid complex delivers deep hydration while butylene glycol and pentylene glycol lock in moisture. No alcohol to dry out skin.

Combination Skin
Good

Works well on cheeks and dry zones. The dewy finish may add extra shine to the T-zone in hot weather. Consider blotting or setting with powder on oily areas.

Oily Skin
Moderate

The hydrating, dewy formula may feel too moisturizing for very oily skin. May cause shine by midday. Better suited for those who want a luminous look or who will set with powder.

Sensitive Skin
Good

Alcohol-free, fragrance-free, paraben-free, and allergy-tested. A solid choice for sensitive skin. Patch test first if you react to chemical UV filters.

Acne-Prone Skin
Good

Low comedogenic rating (1/5) makes it safe for most acne-prone users. However, NOT suitable for fungal acne due to ester ingredients. Non-irritating lightweight formula.

08

Results timeline

3+ MONTHS
Immediately

Instant Hydration & UV Protection

Skin feels moisturized and plump right after application. The watery gel absorbs quickly and leaves a comfortable dewy finish with zero white cast. UV protection begins immediately.

95% noticed instant hydration
1–2 Weeks

Improved Skin Moisture Levels

With daily use, skin's overall hydration improves noticeably. The triple HA complex helps the skin retain moisture better throughout the day, reducing dry patches and flakiness.

80% noticed improved hydration
4–6 Weeks

UV Damage Prevention Visible

Consistent daily use prevents new sun spots, hyperpigmentation, and UV-induced dryness. Skin looks healthier, more even-toned, and shows fewer signs of photoaging.

75% noticed more even skin tone
3+ Months

Long-Term Photoaging Prevention

Extended daily use significantly reduces cumulative UV damage. Skin maintains better elasticity, fewer fine lines from sun exposure, and a more youthful, hydrated appearance overall.

70% noticed anti-aging benefits
09

Ratings by platform

50+ REVIEWS
YesStyle
4.8
Rating
New Listing
Reviews
Main complaint: Thin nozzle dispenser takes getting used to; product can come out too quickly
Stylevana
5.0
Rating
Limited
Reviews
Main complaint: Small 70g tube runs out quickly with daily face and body use
Amazon
4.5
Rating
50+
Reviews
Main complaint: Concerns about authenticity from third-party sellers; dewy finish too shiny for oily skin
Japanese Taste
5.0
Rating
Limited
Reviews
Main complaint: Texture feels too hydrating in hot, humid weather without powder on top
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Ultra-hydrating serum-like texture that feels like skincare, not sunscreen
  • Completely alcohol-free and fragrance-free — gentle on sensitive skin
  • Highest concentration of hyaluronic acid in the Skin Aqua line
  • Four advanced UV filters for robust broad-spectrum protection
  • No white cast — invisible on all skin tones
  • Very water resistant (80 minutes) for active lifestyles
  • Excellent as a hydrating makeup base
  • Clean, minimal 22-ingredient formula
  • Affordable price point for a Japanese SPF 50+ sunscreen

Criticized

  • Small 70g size runs out fast with daily face and body use
  • Not fungal acne (malassezia) safe due to ester ingredients
  • Dewy finish may be too shiny for oily skin in humid weather
  • Contains Octinoxate, which has environmental and hormonal concerns
  • Thin nozzle dispenser can be tricky to control
  • UV filters not FDA-approved (availability limited in US)
  • Needs layering for adequate coverage due to runny texture
  • Product has been replaced/reformulated as of 2026
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
85% Match
Super Moisture UV Gel SPF 50+ PA++++
$9.00
Budget Pick

Same brand, similar UV filter system. Contains ethanol (alcohol) and has a larger 110g size. Less hydrating due to alcohol but lighter texture. Better for oily skin types who want more value per gram.

70% Match
Mermaid Skin Gel UV SPF 50+ PA++++
$10.00
Budget Pick

Similar watery gel texture with a dewy finish and no white cast. Uses fewer UV filters and a smaller 40g size. Contains hyaluronic acid but not the triple HA complex. Also alcohol-free and fragrance-free.

65% Match
Nivea UV Deep Protect & Care Gel SPF 50+ PA++++
$12.00
Similar Price

Another Japanese gel sunscreen with a watery texture and high SPF. Contains hyaluronic acid but also includes alcohol and fragrance. Larger 80g size. Better for those who don't mind a subtle scent.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE
UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence SPF 50+ PA++++
SPF / PA Rating SPF 50+ PA++++
Size 50g
UV Filters 3 Chemical
Alcohol-Free No (contains alcohol)
Fragrance-Free No (contains parfum)
Key Benefit Micro Defense Formula
Water Resistance 80 min
Fungal Acne Safe No
Relief Sun Aqua-Fresh Rice + B5 SPF 50+
SPF / PA Rating SPF 50+ PA++++
Size 50ml
UV Filters 3 Chemical
Alcohol-Free Yes
Fragrance-Free Yes
Key Benefit Rice Extract + Probiotics
Water Resistance Not rated
Fungal Acne Safe No
Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum SPF50+ PA++++
SPF / PA Rating SPF 50+ PA++++
Size 50ml
UV Filters 4 Chemical
Alcohol-Free Yes
Fragrance-Free Yes
Key Benefit Centella + Hyaluronic Acid
Water Resistance Not rated
Fungal Acne Safe Yes
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 extreme heat. Avoid leaving in hot cars or direct sun exposure as this can degrade UV filters.

Packaging

Blue plastic squeeze tube (70g) with thin nozzle tip and one-touch cap for easy dispensing

Travel Friendly

Yes — 70g is well under the 100ml/3.4oz TSA carry-on limit

13

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

Use with caution. This sunscreen does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone. However, it does contain Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (Octinoxate), a chemical UV filter that some in vitro and animal studies have linked to weak estrogenic activity. These findings have not been replicated in human studies under normal use conditions. If you prefer to err on the side of caution during pregnancy or breastfeeding, consider switching to a mineral-only (zinc oxide/titanium dioxide) sunscreen and consult your healthcare provider.

No, this sunscreen is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains Polyglyceryl-10 Pentaisostearate and Isononyl Isononanoate, both of which are esters that can feed the malassezia yeast responsible for fungal acne. If you have pityrosporum folliculitis, consider alternatives like SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum or Purito Daily Go-To Sunscreen, which are formulated without fungal acne triggers.

Yes! In fact, sunscreen is essential when using these actives. Apply retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, or BHAs in your treatment step, then follow with this sunscreen as the final skincare step. When using photosensitizing ingredients like retinol or AHAs, diligent SPF 50+ use and frequent reapplication become even more critical to prevent sun damage and irritation.

This sunscreen is best suited for dry, dehydrated, and normal skin types. Its triple hyaluronic acid complex and alcohol-free formula make it especially beneficial for skin that needs extra moisture. Combination skin types can also enjoy it with powder on the T-zone. Very oily skin types may find the dewy finish too moisturizing and should consider the Skin Aqua Super Moisture UV Gel (with alcohol) for a lighter feel.

You will feel immediate hydration and UV protection from the first application. Improved overall skin moisture levels typically become noticeable within 1–2 weeks of daily use. Prevention of new sun damage, dark spots, and photoaging becomes visible after 4–6 weeks. Long-term anti-aging benefits of consistent SPF use compound over months and years — sunscreen is the single most effective anti-aging product available.

Apply as the very last step of your morning skincare routine, after moisturizer and before makeup. The order is: Cleanser, Toner, Serum/Essence, Moisturizer, then this Sunscreen. On minimal days, you can apply directly after cleansing or toner — the hydrating serum formula provides enough moisture to skip moisturizer in warmer months.

This sunscreen has a low comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. The main UV filters (Octinoxate, Uvinul A Plus, Tinosorb S) all have a comedogenic rating of 0. The lightweight, water-based gel formula is unlikely to clog pores for most people. However, if you have extremely acne-prone skin, patch test on your jawline for a few days before full-face use. Remember: it is NOT fungal acne safe.

The product has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. After opening, use within one year for optimal UV protection efficacy. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. UV filter effectiveness can degrade when exposed to heat or prolonged sunlight, so avoid leaving the tube in hot cars or direct sun. At the recommended daily application rate for face use, the 70g tube typically lasts 4–6 weeks.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.3 / 5 ★★★★☆

Verdict: The Skin Aqua Hyaluronic Serum UV SPF 50+ PA++++ is an outstanding daily sunscreen for anyone with dry or dehydrated skin who wants high-level UV protection without sacrificing comfort. Its alcohol-free, fragrance-free formula with three types of hyaluronic acid sets it apart from most Japanese sunscreens, and the four-filter UV system (including Tinosorb S) provides robust, photostable broad-spectrum defense. The only downsides holding it back from a perfect score are its small 70g size, the presence of Octinoxate (an environmental and pregnancy concern for some), and the fact that it is not fungal acne safe. If those factors don't apply to you, this is one of the best hydrating sunscreens on the market at its price point.

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

Awesome, I Understand!

Notable Effects & Ingredients

wound Promotes Wound Healing from 2 ingredient(s):
Sodium Hyaluronate 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!

Awesome, I Understand!

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
54% 18% 27%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 22 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
1 Unknown
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
6 Unknown
Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate
Uv Absorber, Uv Filter
UV Protection
1 A
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
Hydrating
1 B
Isononyl Isononanoate
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Antistatic Agent
2 Unknown
Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate
Uv Absorber, Uv Filter
UV Protection
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS