Nameraka Honpo Soy Milk Extra Moist Gel Cream
Nameraka Honpo Soy Milk Extra Moist Gel Cream
Product Description
Product overview
SANA's cult-favorite Japanese all-in-one gel cream that replaces six steps (toner, lotion, emulsion, cream, sleeping mask, and makeup base) in a single shape-memory gel. Powered by three fermented soy actives, glycerin, and licorice root, it floods skin with lightweight, long-lasting moisture and a plump, "mochi-skin" bounce, all in a fragrance-free, paraben-free formula.
Six Steps in One Jar
Replaces toner, lotion, emulsion, cream, mask, and makeup base, ideal for busy mornings or tired nights.
Texture & feel
SENSORYSix Steps in One Jar
Replaces toner, lotion, emulsion, cream, mask, and makeup base, ideal for busy mornings or tired nights.
Triple Soy Complex
Fermented soymilk filtrate, soybean seed extract, and soy protein work together to hydrate and improve elasticity.
Layered Humectants
Glycerin, diglycerin, and trehalose draw and hold water for a lasting, plumped "mochi-skin" bounce.
Calm & Brighten
Licorice root extract soothes redness while supporting a more even, radiant-looking complexion.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEFree of retinoids and chemical sunscreens, but contains soy isoflavones (phytoestrogens). Many advise caution with topical phytoestrogens, especially with melasma. Check with your doctor.
Not recommended. Contains fermented soymilk filtrate plus PEG and Polysorbate-style esters that can feed malassezia yeast in fungal-acne-prone skin.
Fragrance-free and free of common allergens, a gentle choice for reactive skin, though a patch test is still wise.
Built around three soy-derived actives. Anyone with a soy allergy or sensitivity should avoid this product entirely.
Layers well with most actives (vitamin C, niacinamide, AHA/BHA, retinol). Apply after thinner treatments as your final hydrating step.
Listed mid-way down, so concentration is modest. Most tolerate it well, but very dry or alcohol-sensitive skin should monitor for tightness.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSFermented Soy Complex (Soymilk Ferment Filtrate + Soybean Seed Extract + Soy Protein) Top 11 ingredientsPromising
SANA's signature trio of soy-derived actives, sourced from non-GMO soybeans. Fermentation breaks soy down into smaller, more bioavailable molecules, while the seed extract delivers antioxidant isoflavones and the protein conditions and smooths the skin surface.
- Isoflavones (genistein, daidzein): Potent antioxidants with anti-inflammatory action; genistein is documented to help calm UV-induced redness.
- Soy proteins: Large proteins smooth and soften skin; smaller proteins are studied for inhibiting melanin transfer to brighten tone.
- Elasticity: Early research suggests soybean extract may support elastin and collagen synthesis for firmer-looking skin.
Glycerin + Diglycerin + Trehalose 2nd ingredient onwardProven
A layered humectant system. Glycerin is the gold-standard moisturizer, diglycerin offers slower-release, longer-lasting hydration with a less sticky feel, and trehalose is a sugar that binds water and helps protect cells from dehydration stress.
- Glycerin: Effective from as low as 3%, with extra benefits for dry skin; helps restore the skin barrier.
- Comedogenicity: Glycerin rates 0 on the comedogenic scale, suitable for breakout-prone skin.
- Skin-identical: Glycerin and diglycerin are natural moisturizing factors already present in skin.
Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract Low %Proven
A skincare superstar prized for two properties: brightening and soothing. Its active glabridin helps reduce pigmentation, while glycyrrhizin is a potent anti-inflammatory used to calm conditions like rosacea and eczema.
- Brightening: Glabridin has been shown to inhibit UVB-induced pigmentation in studies.
- Soothing: One of the safest skin-lightening agents with very few side effects.
- Antioxidant: Glabridin also offers free-radical protection.
Tocopherol (Vitamin E) Low %Proven
The primary fat-soluble antioxidant naturally found in skin. It neutralizes free radicals, provides photoprotection against UVB, and adds emollient softness to the formula.
- Synergy: Works in tandem with vitamin C for stronger antioxidant defense.
- Stability: Helps protect both skin lipids and the formula itself from oxidation.
27 ingredients
Water, Glycerin, Dipropylene Glycol, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Pentylene Glycol, Diglycerin, Trehalose, PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Soymilk Ferment Filtrate, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Seed Extract, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Protein, PEG-240/Hdi Copolymer Bis-Decyltetradeceth-20 Ether, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Butylene Glycol, PEG-32, Alcohol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Diphenylsiloxy Phenyl Trimethicone, Dimethicone, Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Tocopherol, Triethylhexanoin, Behenyl Alcohol, Pentasodium Pentetate, Sodium Hydroxide, Phenoxyethanol.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEAs a true all-in-one, it can also replace steps 2–4 on its own for a minimalist routine. By day, follow with SPF; by night, it doubles as a final sealing step or overnight sleeping mask.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse First
Start with freshly washed skin. The gel absorbs best on clean, slightly damp skin.
Scoop an Appropriate Amount
Take a pearl-sized amount (about one fingertip) onto your fingers. The shape-memory gel holds its form until applied.
Press Across the Face
Smooth evenly over the entire face. It melts into a spreadable essence and sinks in quickly without stickiness.
Layer or Mask
Use a thin layer for daily moisture, or apply a generous layer at night as a hydrating sleeping mask.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want to simplify a multi-step routine into one jar
- You have normal, combination, or dehydrated skin
- You prefer fragrance-free, lightweight hydration
- You like a plump, dewy "mochi-skin" finish
- You're after affordable, fuss-free J-beauty
Consider alternatives if:
- You have a soy allergy or sensitivity
- You're fungal-acne (malassezia) prone
- You have estrogen-mediated melasma
- You have very dry skin needing rich occlusives
- You want to avoid all alcohol in skincare
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight gel texture absorbs fast and hydrates without a heavy or greasy feel.
Hydrating and comforting, but very dry skin may want a richer occlusive layered on top.
Balances oily and dry zones well thanks to its lightweight, water-rich humectant base.
Fragrance- and allergen-free with soothing licorice, but soy and alcohol warrant a patch test.
Low comedogenicity is friendly to bacterial acne, but ferments make it unsuitable for fungal acne.
Soy isoflavones and antioxidants support plumpness and elasticity for early anti-aging care.
Results timeline
8–12 WEEKSInstant Comfort & Plump
Skin feels softened, hydrated, and bouncy from the first application as humectants bind water at the surface.
~90% noticedSmoother, Calmer Texture
Daily use reduces dry patches and tightness; licorice helps calm redness for a more even-looking surface.
~70% noticedImproved Bounce & Tone
Soy isoflavones and antioxidants support elasticity and a brighter, more radiant complexion over time.
~55% noticedSustained Hydration & Firmness
With consistent use, skin maintains a well-hydrated, supple, "mochi-like" quality and an even tone.
~45% noticedRatings by platform
4K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Excellent value, full multi-step routine in one jar
- Lightweight, non-sticky, fast-absorbing gel texture
- Fragrance-free and free of common allergens
- Genuinely hydrating with a plump, dewy finish
- Works as a daily moisturizer or overnight mask
Criticized
- Open-jar packaging is less hygienic and travel-proof
- Not fungal-acne safe due to fermented soy
- Contains alcohol, which a few find drying
- May need a richer cream over it in winter
- Unsuitable for anyone with a soy allergy
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Another J-beauty all-in-one gel built on layered hyaluronic acid instead of soy. Equally lightweight and fragrance-light, but skips the soy isoflavone brightening angle.
The line's classic richer cream with the same soy complex. Better for dry skin, but heavier and not a true 6-in-1 all-in-one.
A drugstore soy-based all-in-one gel at a lower price. Hydrates similarly but uses a simpler formula and lacks the licorice brightening boost.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDESANA Soy Milk Extra Moist Gel
COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion
Nivea Soft Refreshing Moisturizer
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight; use clean fingers or a spatula to scoop.
Wide-mouth screw-top jar with inner protective seal
Yes, 100g jar is under carry-on limits, though the jar format can be bulky
Frequently asked questions
FAQIt contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens, which is reassuring. However, its hero actives are soy isoflavones, which are phytoestrogens (plant compounds with a weak estrogenic effect). Because of this, some practitioners advise caution with topical soy during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and it's best avoided if you have estrogen-mediated melasma. Always confirm with your OB-GYN or dermatologist.
No. The formula is built on fermented soymilk filtrate and also contains PEG-based esters that can feed malassezia yeast. If you are fungal-acne (malassezia) prone, this product is not recommended and you should look for a ferment-free, ester-free alternative.
Yes. There are no direct conflicts. Apply your thinner active treatments (vitamin C serum, AHA/BHA, retinol) first, then use this gel cream as your final hydrating and sealing step. It can actually help buffer dryness or irritation from those actives. Introduce one new active at a time and always use SPF in the morning.
It performs best on normal, combination, and dehydrated skin, and its lightweight gel texture is excellent for oily skin. Dry skin will enjoy it but may want a richer occlusive layered on top in colder months. It is gentle enough for many sensitive-skin users since it's fragrance-free, but anyone with a soy allergy should avoid it.
Hydration and a plumper feel are usually immediate. Smoother texture and calmer redness typically appear within 1–2 weeks of daily use. Brightening and improved bounce from the soy isoflavones and licorice build gradually over roughly 4–8 weeks of consistent use.
It goes near the end of your routine, after cleansing, toner, and any serums or treatments. As a true all-in-one, it can also condense your toner, lotion, and cream into a single step. In the morning, always finish with sunscreen; at night, you can apply a thicker layer as an overnight sleeping mask.
It has a low comedogenic rating of about 1 out of 5. Its key humectants (glycerin, diglycerin, trehalose) are rated 0, and the formula is lightweight and oil-light. Most users, including those with bacterial acne, find it non-pore-clogging, though as with any product, individual results vary.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is about 12 months. Because it comes in an open jar rather than a pump, keep the lid sealed, store it in a cool, dry place, and use clean fingers or a small spatula to keep the product fresh and hygienic.
Verdict: SANA's Nameraka Honpo Soy Milk Extra Moist Gel Cream is an outstanding value J-beauty all-in-one that genuinely simplifies a multi-step routine into one fragrance-free jar. Its triple fermented-soy complex, layered humectants, and soothing licorice deliver reliable, lightweight hydration with a signature plump "mochi-skin" finish, making it a top pick for normal, combination, and oily skin. Just note the trade-offs: the open-jar packaging, a small amount of alcohol, and the fact that it is not fungal-acne safe and unsuitable for anyone with a soy allergy. For everyone else seeking effortless, affordable daily moisture, it earns a confident recommendation.
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):
Ache-fighting 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
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Dipropylene Glycol
Fragrance, Solvent, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Masking, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 1 |
Cetyl Ethylhexanoate
Skin Conditioning, Emolient
|
Ache-fighting
|
|
| 1 |
Pentylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|