Super Hyaluronic Acid Hydra & Whitening Face Wash
Super Hyaluronic Acid Hydra & Whitening Face Wash
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle, hydrating J-beauty face wash enriched with Super Hyaluronic Acid (Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate), brightening Resveratrol, and four types of Brown Algae Extract. Cleanses away dirt and impurities while deeply moisturizing skin, leaving it soft, supple, and luminous — never tight or dry.
Super Hyaluronic Acid
Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate retains 2x more moisture than regular HA, locking hydration into skin even after rinsing.
Texture & feel
SENSORYSuper Hyaluronic Acid
Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate retains 2x more moisture than regular HA, locking hydration into skin even after rinsing.
Resveratrol Brightening
Natural grape-derived antioxidant that brightens dull skin tone, enhances radiance, and combats free radical damage.
4 Brown Algae Extracts
Ocean-derived seaweed complex (Sargassum, Fucus, Gelidiella, Hypnea) replenishes minerals and draws water into skin.
Gentle Low-Foam Cleansing
Mild surfactant blend produces a soft lather that removes dirt and excess oil without stripping natural moisture.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. All ingredients are considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Contains Lauric Acid, Stearic Acid, and Palmitic Acid — fatty acids that can feed Malassezia yeast. Not recommended for fungal acne-prone skin.
As a wash-off product, comedogenic ingredients have minimal contact time. Very low risk of pore clogging for most skin types.
Formula includes Methylparaben and Propylparaben as preservatives. While generally considered safe at low concentrations, some users prefer paraben-free alternatives.
Includes Sodium Laureth Sulfate, which can be drying or irritating for very sensitive or eczema-prone skin. Present in lower concentration in the formula.
No alcohol (ethanol), fragrances, colorants, or mineral oil. Formulated for low irritation and gentle daily use.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSodium Acetylated Hyaluronate (Super HA)Proven
The star ingredient — a modified form of Hyaluronic Acid where acetyl groups act as tiny anchors, giving it stronger skin adhesion and 2x the moisture retention of regular HA. Less sticky and more cosmetically elegant.
- Mechanism: Acetyl groups create amphipathic properties allowing better binding to skin surface for longer-lasting hydration
- Benefit: Improved elasticity, surface hydration, and moisture lock-in even after rinsing
- Research: Studies show superior moisture retention compared to standard sodium hyaluronate
Sodium HyaluronateProven
The sodium salt form of Hyaluronic Acid — a naturally occurring molecule in skin that can bind up to 1,000 times its weight in water. Works as a powerful humectant to draw moisture into skin layers.
- Molecular Weight: Smaller than pure HA, allowing better skin penetration
- Function: Plumps skin, reduces fine lines appearance, and supports skin barrier hydration
- Synergy: Works with Super HA for multi-layer hydration approach
ResveratrolProven
A potent polyphenol antioxidant naturally derived from grapes. Provides skin brightening benefits and protects against environmental free radical damage that causes premature aging and dull skin tone.
- Antioxidant: Neutralizes free radicals to prevent oxidative stress and skin damage
- Brightening: Helps inhibit melanin overproduction for more even, radiant skin tone
- Anti-Aging: Research supports its role in protecting skin collagen from UV-induced degradation
Brown Algae Complex (4 Extracts)Promising
A blend of four marine algae extracts — Sargassum Muticum, Fucus Serratus, Gelidiella Acerosa, and Hypnea Musciformis — plus Chondrus Crispus (Carrageenan). Rich in ocean minerals, vitamins, and polysaccharides.
- Hydration: Polysaccharides help draw water into skin and improve moisture retention
- Minerals: Replenishes skin with trace minerals including zinc, magnesium, and iodine
- Antioxidant: Fucoidan and other algae compounds provide additional free radical protection
Glycerin ~5-10%Proven
One of the most effective and well-studied humectants in skincare. A 2016 study found glycerin to be more effective as a humectant than AHAs and hyaluronic acid. Pulls moisture into deeper skin layers.
- Humectant: Low molecular weight allows penetration to deeper skin layers for thorough hydration
- Barrier Support: Strengthens skin barrier function, with antimicrobial and antiviral properties
- Safety: Colorless, odorless, non-toxic — one of the safest and most proven skincare ingredients
31 ingredients
Water, Lauric Acid, Stearic Acid, Glycerin, Potassium Hydroxide, Butylene Glycol, Palmitic Acid, Glycol Distearate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Acrylates Copolymer, Cocamide DEA, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Sodium Chloride, Potassium Cocoyl Glycinate, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Disodium EDTA, Polyquaternium-7, Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Sorbitol, Resveratrol, Sargassum Muticum Extract, Fucus Serratus Extract, Gelidiella Acerosa Extract, Hypnea Musciformis Extract, Chondrus Crispus (Carrageenan) Extract, Methylparaben, Propylparaben.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as your second cleanser in a double-cleanse routine (AM & PM). Pairs perfectly with Hada Labo Gokujyun Lotion as your next step for maximum hydration layering.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face & Hands
Moisten your face and hands with lukewarm water. This helps the cleanser activate and lather properly.
Dispense a Pea-Sized Amount
Squeeze a small pea-sized amount onto your palm. The formula is thick and gooey — a little goes a long way. Be careful not to over-dispense.
Lather Between Hands
Rub between your palms with water to create a soft, low foam. You can also use a foaming net for a richer lather.
Massage Gently Onto Face
Apply the lather to your face using gentle circular motions for 30–60 seconds. Avoid tugging or pulling the skin.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse with lukewarm water until all product is removed. Pat dry gently with a clean towel — do not rub.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want a hydrating cleanser that doesn't leave skin tight or dry
- You have normal, combination, or oily skin
- You want to brighten dull skin tone while cleansing
- You prefer fragrance-free, low-irritation formulas
- You practice the J-beauty double cleanse method
- You want an affordable daily cleanser with hyaluronic acid
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia) — contains fatty acid triggers
- You have very dry skin and need a cream or milk cleanser
- You strictly avoid parabens in your skincare
- You have extremely sensitive skin that reacts to SLES
- You prefer a low-pH cleanser (this runs pH 7–8)
- You need a cleanser that removes heavy/waterproof makeup
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESEffectively removes excess oil and sebum without over-drying. Lightweight formula won't add shine or greasiness after rinse.
Balances well across oily T-zone and drier cheek areas. Hydrating ingredients help maintain moisture equilibrium.
Ideal everyday cleanser that maintains skin's natural moisture balance. Leaves face clean, soft, and refreshed.
Hydrating but may feel borderline drying for very dry skin. Follow immediately with a hydrating toner and rich moisturizer.
Fragrance-free and low irritation, but contains SLES and parabens. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin.
Low comedogenic risk as a wash-off product. Non-irritating formula, but not suitable for fungal acne specifically.
Results timeline
MONTH 2–3Immediate Softness
Skin feels noticeably softer and more supple right after the first wash. No tightness or dryness commonly associated with foaming cleansers.
90% noticedImproved Hydration & Comfort
Consistent use shows improved moisture levels throughout the day. Skin feels more balanced, clean, and comfortable after each wash.
78% noticedBrighter, More Even Tone
Resveratrol and algae antioxidants begin to show brightening effects. Dull, tired-looking skin appears more radiant and even-toned.
65% noticedSustained Glow & Skin Health
Long-term use supports overall skin health. Moisture barrier function is well maintained, and the brightening effect becomes more pronounced with continued antioxidant protection.
55% noticedRatings by platform
4K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Skin feels clean, soft, and hydrated — not tight or stripped
- Fragrance-free, colorant-free, alcohol-free formula
- Very economical — a pea-sized amount lasts per wash
- 100g tube lasts 2–3 months with twice-daily use
- Two types of Hyaluronic Acid for dual hydration
- Resveratrol provides genuine brightening over time
- Trusted J-beauty brand backed by Rohto Pharmaceutical
- Gentle enough for daily morning and evening use
Criticized
- Contains parabens (Methylparaben, Propylparaben)
- Not fungal acne safe — contains multiple fatty acid triggers
- Contains Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)
- pH runs slightly high (~7–8) compared to skin's natural pH
- Gooey/thick consistency makes it easy to dispense too much
- May be borderline drying for very dry or eczema-prone skin
- Does not remove heavy or waterproof makeup effectively
- Regional formula variations can be confusing for buyers
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Low-pH gel cleanser with BHA (betaine salicylate) for gentle exfoliation. More suitable for acne-prone skin. Lacks the hyaluronic acid hydration boost but is fungal acne safe.
Ceramide-based non-foaming cleanser focused on barrier repair. Richer, creamier texture without the brightening benefits. Better for very dry and eczema-prone skin. Contains no parabens.
Japanese foaming cleanser with rice ferment and amino acids. More moisturizing texture but contains fermented ingredients (not fungal acne safe either). Different brightening approach.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep cap tightly closed to prevent the thick formula from drying out.
Plastic squeeze tube with flip-top cap. Standard hygiene seal included.
Yes — 100g tube is under the 100ml carry-on liquid limit for most airlines.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. This face wash does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, benzoyl peroxide, or chemical sunscreen filters. All ingredients are considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. However, always consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns about any product in your skincare routine.
No. This face wash contains Lauric Acid, Stearic Acid, and Palmitic Acid — fatty acids that can feed Malassezia yeast and potentially worsen fungal acne. If you are prone to fungal acne, consider alternatives like the COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser or the La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Cleanser, which are formulated without these triggers.
Yes. Since this is a rinse-off cleanser with no active exfoliants, it is compatible with retinol, vitamin C (ascorbic acid), AHAs (glycolic, lactic acid), and BHAs (salicylic acid) in your routine. Simply use this face wash to cleanse, then apply your actives on clean skin. The gentle, hydrating formula actually helps prepare skin for stronger treatments without additional irritation.
This face wash is best suited for normal, oily, and combination skin types. It effectively removes excess oil and impurities while maintaining hydration through its dual hyaluronic acid formula. It also works well for those with slightly dull skin who want brightening benefits. Those with very dry or extremely sensitive skin may find it slightly drying and should follow up with a rich moisturizer.
You will notice softer, more supple skin immediately after the first use. Improved hydration levels become noticeable within 1–2 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. The brightening effects from Resveratrol and algae antioxidants typically become visible after 3–4 weeks. For best results, use as part of a complete J-beauty skincare routine with a hydrating toner and moisturizer.
Use this as Step 2 in a double-cleanse routine (after an oil cleanser or micellar water) or as your primary cleanser if you are not wearing heavy makeup. Apply morning and evening before toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM only). This is a water-based cleanser designed to remove residual dirt, sweat, and light impurities.
The comedogenic risk is very low (rated 1/5). While Lauric Acid has a high individual comedogenic rating (4/5), this is a wash-off product with very short skin contact time, significantly reducing the risk of pore clogging. Most users, including those with oily and acne-prone skin, use this without breakouts. However, individual reactions may vary — discontinue use if you notice new congestion.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. The 100g tube typically lasts 2–3 months with twice-daily use since you only need a pea-sized amount per wash. Store in a cool, dry place with the cap tightly closed. The sealed product has a shelf life of approximately 3 years from the manufacturing date.
Verdict: The Hada Labo Super Hyaluronic Acid Hydra & Whitening Face Wash is an excellent budget-friendly J-beauty cleanser that delivers on its hydration promise. The dual hyaluronic acid formula (including the standout Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate) genuinely leaves skin softer and more supple than most foaming cleansers, while Resveratrol and marine algae add meaningful brightening and antioxidant protection. It earns points for being fragrance-free, affordable, and long-lasting. However, the inclusion of parabens, SLES, and fatty acids (ruling it out for fungal acne sufferers) keeps it from a perfect score. For normal, oily, and combination skin looking for an effective everyday cleanser with hydrating benefits — this is a proven, reliable choice from one of Japan's most trusted skincare brands.
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 2 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 |
Lauric Acid
Fragrance, Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 1 |
Stearic Acid
Masking, Fragrance, Emulsion Stabilising, Emulsifying, Sufactant, Refatting, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Potassium Hydroxide
Buffering
|
|