Jeju Fresh Aloe Soothing Gel 99%
Jeju Fresh Aloe Soothing Gel 99%
Product Description
Product overview
A multi-purpose soothing gel made with 99% Jeju Island aloe vera leaf extract. Lightweight, fast-absorbing, and cooling, it delivers instant hydration and calms irritated, sunburned, or sensitive skin on face, body, and hair without any sticky residue.
99% Jeju Aloe Vera
Sourced from pristine Jeju Island, the highest concentration of aloe vera among popular K-beauty gels for maximum soothing and hydrating benefits.
Texture & feel
SENSORY99% Jeju Aloe Vera
Sourced from pristine Jeju Island, the highest concentration of aloe vera among popular K-beauty gels for maximum soothing and hydrating benefits.
Instant Cooling Relief
Provides immediate cooling sensation on sunburned, irritated, or sensitized skin. Refrigerate for an enhanced pore-tightening mask effect.
Multi-Purpose Formula
Works as a face moisturizer, body gel, hair treatment, after-sun care, aftershave soother, sleeping mask, and makeup primer in one product.
25+ Botanical Extracts
Enriched with chamomile, jojoba, sea buckthorn, avocado, spearmint, and purslane extracts for comprehensive skin nourishment and barrier support.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEFree from retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, and chemical sunscreen filters. Aloe vera is considered safe for topical use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Contains Polysorbate 20 and a fermented extract (Saccharomyces/Caragana Sinica Root Ferment), both of which may feed malassezia yeast and trigger fungal acne in susceptible individuals.
Gel-based formula with aloe vera and lightweight plant extracts. Very unlikely to clog pores. Suitable for acne-prone skin.
Includes synthetic fragrance at the end of the ingredient list. Those with very sensitive or fragrance-reactive skin should patch test before full application.
Safe to layer with retinol, vitamin C, AHA, BHA, and niacinamide. The soothing aloe formula actually helps buffer irritation from strong actives.
Formulated without parabens, mineral oils, artificial colors, silicone oil, benzophenone, animal-derived ingredients, and talc.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSAloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract 99%Proven
The star ingredient sourced from Jeju Island. Aloe vera contains vitamins A, C, E, enzymes, minerals, and amino acids that moisturize, soothe inflammation, and promote skin healing. Acts as both a humectant and emollient.
- Hydration: Contains polysaccharides (acemannan) that bind water to the skin and prevent transepidermal water loss.
- Anti-inflammatory: Studies show aloe vera reduces prostaglandin E2 and thromboxane B2 levels, calming redness and irritation.
- Wound healing: Promotes fibroblast activity and collagen synthesis, supporting faster recovery of damaged skin barriers.
Glycerin <1%Proven
A skin-identical humectant that draws water into the skin from both the environment and deeper skin layers. One of the most well-researched and effective moisturizing ingredients available.
- Humectant: Attracts and holds moisture in the stratum corneum, improving skin hydration for hours.
- Barrier support: Helps maintain the skin's natural lipid barrier and prevents dryness.
Portulaca Oleracea Extract <1%Promising
Purslane extract is a traditional Korean medicinal plant known for its powerful skin-soothing, antioxidant, and wound-healing abilities. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins A, C, and E.
- Anti-inflammatory: Studies show it inhibits inflammatory mediators in stimulated skin cells, reducing redness and irritation.
- Antioxidant: Contains high levels of alpha-tocopherol and ascorbic acid to fight free radical damage.
Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Extract <1%Proven
Jojoba oil closely mimics the skin's own sebum structure. It moisturizes without clogging pores and helps balance oil production in both dry and oily skin types.
- Emollient: Creates a breathable protective layer that locks in moisture without feeling heavy or greasy.
- Sebum-regulating: Signals the skin to reduce excess oil production, helping maintain balanced hydration.
Hippophae Rhamnoides (Sea Buckthorn) Extract <1%Promising
A nutrient-dense berry extract rich in vitamins C, E, carotenoids, and flavonoids. Known for its skin regeneration and brightening properties.
- Antioxidant: One of nature's richest sources of vitamin C, helping to protect against environmental damage.
- Regenerative: Supports skin cell renewal and helps fade post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
30 ingredients
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Glycerin, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Ocimum Basilicum (Basil) Leaf Extract, Origanum Vulgare Leaf Extract, Salvia Officinalis (Sage) Leaf Extract, Mentha Viridis (Spearmint) Extract, Melissa Officinalis Extract, Saccharomyces/Caragana Sinica Root Ferment Extract, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Extract, Hippophae Rhamnoides Extract, Juglans Regia (Walnut) Seed Extract, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Fruit Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Leaf Extract, Urtica Dioica (Nettle) Extract, Chrysanthemum Morifolium Flower Extract, Sambucus Nigra Fruit Extract, Vitex Trifolia Fruit Extract, Thuja Occidentalis Leaf Extract, Cnidium Officinale Root Extract, Angelica Dahurica Root Extract, Asarum Sieboldi Root Extract, Morus Alba Root Extract, Eclipta Prostrata Extract, Polysorbate 20, Carbomer, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin, Potassium Hydroxide, Disodium EDTA, Betaine, Butylene Glycol, Perfume
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after toner and before serum for a hydration boost. In summer, this gel can replace your moisturizer for oily skin types. Use AM & PM.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Tone
Start with a clean face. Apply your toner and let it absorb before proceeding.
Dispense & Apply
Scoop an adequate amount of gel and spread it evenly across your face, body, or hair ends. A thin layer is sufficient for the face.
Pat for Absorption
Gently pat the gel into your skin with your fingertips until fully absorbed. The gel should disappear within 30 seconds with no sticky residue.
Layer or Finish
Follow with your serum and moisturizer. For a cooling mask, apply a thick layer, leave for 5-10 minutes, then pat in the remaining product.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You need a lightweight, multi-purpose hydrating gel for face, body, and hair
- You have sunburned, irritated, or post-procedure skin that needs soothing
- You want a non-greasy summer moisturizer for oily or combination skin
- You are looking for an affordable, high-concentration aloe vera gel
- You want a gel to calm skin after shaving, waxing, or laser treatments
- You prefer clean K-beauty formulas free from parabens and mineral oil
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne — contains Polysorbate 20 and a fermented extract
- You need a rich, occlusive moisturizer for very dry or winter skin
- You are extremely sensitive to any fragrance — this contains Parfum
- You want anti-aging actives like retinol, peptides, or vitamin C
- You prefer a completely fragrance-free, minimal-ingredient formula
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESUltra-lightweight gel absorbs instantly without adding shine or greasiness. Can replace moisturizer in summer. Helps balance oil and moisture levels.
Provides a hydration boost but not enough moisture on its own. Layer with a richer cream or mix with a facial oil for added nourishment.
Balances well across oily T-zone and drier cheeks. Lightweight enough for oily areas without under-hydrating dry patches.
Aloe vera is inherently soothing and anti-inflammatory. Contains fragrance though, so patch test first if your skin is highly reactive.
Low comedogenic risk (1/5) and non-greasy formula. However, not fungal acne safe. Great for calming post-breakout redness and inflammation.
Results timeline
6–8 WEEKSCooling Relief & Hydration
Instant cooling sensation on application. Skin feels refreshed, soothed, and hydrated within seconds. Redness from sunburn or irritation visibly calms.
95% noticed instant soothingImproved Hydration & Texture
Skin feels consistently more hydrated and smoother. Dry, flaky patches diminish. Oil-moisture balance begins to normalize for combination and oily skin types.
80% noticed softer skinCalmer, Healthier Complexion
Post-acne redness and minor irritation significantly reduced. Skin appears more even-toned and revitalized. Users with sensitive skin report less reactivity overall.
65% noticed reduced rednessVisible Skin Barrier Improvement
Consistent use strengthens the moisture barrier. Skin is less prone to dryness, flaking, and environmental sensitivity. Overall complexion looks healthier and more resilient.
55% noticed barrier improvementRatings by platform
18K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- 99% aloe vera — highest concentration among popular K-beauty gels
- Incredibly fast absorption with zero sticky residue
- Versatile multi-purpose use for face, body, hair, and after-sun care
- Excellent value for the size (300ml at an affordable price)
- Instantly cools and soothes sunburned or irritated skin
- No alcohol in the formula (unlike Nature Republic's version)
- Free from parabens, mineral oil, silicone, and artificial colors
Criticized
- Not hydrating enough on its own for dry skin — needs layering
- Jar/tub packaging is less hygienic — no spatula provided
- 300ml size is too large for travel carry-on
- Contains fragrance (Parfum) which may irritate very sensitive skin
- Not fungal acne safe due to Polysorbate 20 and fermented extract
- Limited anti-aging benefits — purely a soothing and hydrating product
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
The original K-beauty aloe gel with 92% aloe. Contains alcohol (denatured) which some users dislike. Slightly more fragrant and stickier texture, but widely available and extremely affordable.
Also 99% aloe but with a thicker, more viscous texture. Users with very dry skin prefer the richer feel. No alcohol, similar botanical profile, but comes in a less convenient tub packaging.
Another 99% Jeju aloe gel at an even lower price. Contains allantoin and lactobacillus ferment for added soothing. However, includes alcohol and fragrance. Available in tube packaging for better hygiene.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store at room temperature out of direct sunlight. Refrigerate for an enhanced cooling effect and pore-tightening mask use.
Plastic tub/jar with screw-top lid and inner protective seal. Consider transferring to a smaller jar for daily use to maintain hygiene.
No — 300ml exceeds the 100ml carry-on liquid limit. Decant into a smaller travel container, or look for the 50ml tube version.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. This gel does not contain any ingredients that are flagged as unsafe during pregnancy or breastfeeding, such as retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen filters. The 99% aloe vera base is considered safe for topical use. However, as with any skincare product, consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.
No. This product contains Polysorbate 20 and Saccharomyces/Caragana Sinica Root Ferment Extract, both of which are flagged as potentially feeding malassezia yeast. If you are prone to fungal acne, consider the Isntree Aloe Soothing Gel Fresh or Etude House 99% Aloe Soothing Gel, which have fungal-acne-safe formulations.
Yes. This gel is compatible with all common actives. Its soothing aloe base can actually help calm the irritation that retinol, AHA, and BHA sometimes cause. Apply your active first, let it absorb, then layer the aloe gel on top. For vitamin C serums, apply the serum first, wait a few minutes, then follow with the gel.
This gel works best for oily, combination, and normal skin types, especially during warmer months when a lightweight hydrator is preferred. It is also excellent for anyone with sunburned, irritated, or post-procedure skin regardless of type. Dry skin types can still benefit but should layer a richer moisturizer on top for adequate hydration.
Soothing and cooling effects are immediate upon application. Improved hydration and smoother skin texture are typically noticed within 1-2 weeks of daily use. Reduced redness and calmer skin become apparent around 3-4 weeks. For meaningful barrier improvement, allow 6-8 weeks of consistent use.
Apply after cleansing and toning, before your serum and moisturizer (Step 3 in a standard routine). For oily skin in summer, it can act as your sole moisturizer. For body use, apply anytime to soothe dryness or irritation. As a sleeping mask, apply a thick layer as your final step at night.
This gel has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5, meaning it has very low pore-clogging potential. Aloe vera itself has a comedogenic rating of 0. The gel-based formula is lightweight and water-rich, making it highly unlikely to cause breakouts. It is a good option for acne-prone skin seeking gentle hydration.
The recommended Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. To maximize shelf life, always close the lid tightly after use, avoid introducing water or contaminants into the jar, store at room temperature away from direct sunlight, and consider using a clean spatula rather than fingers to scoop out the product.
Verdict: The Saem Jeju Fresh Aloe Soothing Gel 99% is a dependable, multi-purpose hydrating gel that delivers on its core promises: instant cooling relief, lightweight hydration, and versatile use across face, body, and hair. With the highest aloe concentration among popular K-beauty gels and an alcohol-free formula, it outperforms the ubiquitous Nature Republic gel in absorption and gentleness. It falls short for those needing deep moisture for dry skin or a fungal-acne-safe formula. At its price point, the 300ml tub offers outstanding value for a daily soothing essential that belongs in every summer skincare arsenal.
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
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 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
|
|
|
| 0 |
Alcohol Denat.
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 3 |
Polysorbate 20
Surfactant, Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 1 |
Carbomer
Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Gel Forming
|
|