The Dewy Milk Moisturizer
The Dewy Milk Moisturizer
Product Description
A lightweight, milky moisturizer that delivers oil-balancing hydration for bouncy, supple skin with a lasting dewy glow. Inspired by the Japanese concept of "uruoi" β a richly hydrated appearance like flower petals kissed with morning dew.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Oil-Balancing Hydration
Zinc Hyaluronate delivers lightweight moisture while controlling excess oil for a comfortable, non-greasy feel all day.
Instant Dewy Glow
Japanese Purple Rice and prebiotic Green Tea boost radiance and support a healthy skin microbiome for lasting luminosity.
Antioxidant Protection
Powerful botanical antioxidants shield skin from free radical damage caused by environmental stressors and pollution.
2X Skin Bounce
Clinically proven to instantly double skin's bounce while improving elasticity and suppleness with continued use.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
Free from retinoids, salicylic acid, and other ingredients health professionals recommend avoiding during pregnancy. Tatcha confirms all products are pregnancy-friendly.
Contains Tomato Seed Oil, PEG-60 Glyceryl Isostearate, and Arginine which may feed malassezia yeast. Avoid if prone to fungal acne.
Non-comedogenic formula designed not to clog pores. Clinical testing confirms suitability for acne-prone skin types.
Contains less than 1% synthetic fragrance plus Bergamot and Lemon Peel Oils. Patch test if highly sensitive to fragrances or citrus oils.
Gentle formula layers well with vitamin C, niacinamide, and other actives. Use caution when combining with strong retinols β apply moisturizer after to buffer.
Includes Dimethicone for smooth application and skin protection. Silicones are non-comedogenic but require proper cleansing to remove.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
π Zinc Hyaluronate Star Ingredient
A unique complex combining zinc and hyaluronic acid that delivers lightweight, oil-balancing hydration. Minimizes water loss while strengthening the skin barrier and regulating sebum production.
- Function: Multi-weight hydration + oil control + barrier support
- Benefit: Anti-inflammatory properties of zinc combined with HA's moisture retention
- Source: Tatcha's proprietary formulation
π΅ Prebiotic Green Tea Extract (EGCG) Proven
Epigallocatechin Gallatyl Glucoside derived from Camellia Sinensis. Works as a prebiotic to boost skin's natural glow and support a healthy microbiome while providing powerful antioxidant protection.
- Function: Prebiotic + antioxidant + microbiome support
- Research: EGCG shown to have anti-inflammatory and photoprotective properties
- Source: Japanese green tea leaves
π Japanese Purple Rice (Oryza Sativa) Proven
Ancient Japanese superfood containing anthocyanin, a powerful antioxidant that protects skin from free radicals, improves hydration, and gives the product its signature lilac hue.
- Function: Antioxidant shield + hydration booster
- Benefit: Protects against environmental stressors and pollution damage
- Source: Traditional Japanese rice varieties
π«§ Rice Ferment Filtrate (Saccharomyces) High Proven
Second ingredient on the list β a fermented rice extract rich in amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. Part of Tatcha's Hadasei-3 complex that nourishes and brightens skin.
- Function: Hydration + brightening + nourishment
- Benefit: Supports skin's natural moisture factors and promotes cell turnover
- Source: Double-fermented Japanese rice
π§ Squalane Proven
Biomimetic emollient that mimics skin's natural oils. Seals in moisture without feeling greasy, creating a protective barrier while maintaining skin hydration throughout the day.
- Function: Emollient + occlusive + barrier protection
- Comedogenic Rating: 0 β non-pore clogging
- Benefit: Compatible with all skin types including acne-prone
π Multiple Hyaluronic Acids Proven
Contains Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, and Zinc Hydrolyzed Hyaluronate β multiple molecular weights for multi-level hydration from surface to deeper layers.
- Function: Multi-depth hydration
- Benefit: Small molecules penetrate deeper; larger molecules hydrate surface
- Research: HA can hold up to 1000x its weight in water
44 ingredients
Aqua/Water/Eau, Saccharomyces/Rice Ferment Filtrate, Glycerin, Dimethicone, Squalane, Diisostearyl Malate, Propanediol, Solanum Lycopersicum (Tomato) Seed Oil, Dipentaerythrityl Hexahydroxystearate, Bis-Diglyceryl Polyacyladipate-2, Pentylene Glycol, Tridecyl Trimellitate, PEG-60 Glyceryl Isostearate, Inositol, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Cladosiphon Okamuranus Extract, Chondrus Crispus Extract, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Zinc Hydrolyzed Hyaluronate, Epigallocatechin Gallatyl Glucoside, Sodium Hyaluronate, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Extract, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Arginine, Tocopherol, Butylene Glycol, Gluconolactone, T-Butyl Alcohol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Parfum/Fragrance, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia Peel Oil, Citrus Limon Peel Oil, Limonene, Linalool, Linalyl Acetate, Pinene, Sodium Benzoate, Phenoxyethanol, Violet 2 (CI 60725).
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Use AM and PM. Apply after water-based serums and before oils or sunscreen. Layers beautifully under makeup without pilling.
π How to Use
Dispense
Pump 1-2 pumps onto the back of your hand. A little goes a long way β start with less and add more if needed.
Warm
Gently rub between fingertips to warm the product. This helps with absorption and distribution across the face.
Apply
Press and pat onto face and neck using gentle upward motions. Focus on areas that need extra hydration or oil control.
Wait
Allow 30-60 seconds for full absorption before applying sunscreen (AM) or sleeping (PM). No wait time needed before makeup.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You have combination to oily skin
- You want a dewy glow without greasiness
- You struggle with excess shine by midday
- You need a lightweight summer moisturizer
- You want a moisturizer that works under makeup
- You loved Dewy Skin Cream but found it too rich
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding
- You prefer J-beauty skincare philosophy
β Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin (try Dewy Skin Cream instead)
- You're prone to fungal acne/malassezia
- You're extremely sensitive to fragrances or citrus oils
- You prefer completely fragrance-free products
- You want anti-aging benefits like line reduction
- You need heavy-duty winter protection
- You're on a strict budget (consider dupes below)
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Perfect match. Zinc Hyaluronate controls excess oil while providing grease-free hydration. 100% showed improvement in oiliness after 1 week in clinical trials.
Ideal for combination skin. Balances T-zone shine while hydrating drier cheeks. Lightweight enough for oily areas, nourishing enough for dry zones.
Great everyday moisturizer for normal skin seeking a healthy dewy glow without heaviness. Perfect for warmer months or humid climates.
May not provide enough moisture for very dry skin. Consider layering with a hydrating serum or trying The Dewy Skin Cream for richer hydration.
Gentle formula suitable for most sensitive skin. Contains fragrance and citrus oils β patch test first if highly reactive to these ingredients.
Non-comedogenic formula won't clog pores. However, NOT suitable for fungal acne due to fermented ingredients and oils. Good for bacterial acne-prone skin.
π Results Timeline
Instant Hydration & Dewy Glow
Skin feels instantly hydrated with a visible dewy finish. Product absorbs quickly without sticky residue. Provides 2x more skin bounce immediately.
92% notice quick absorptionOil Balance & Bounce Improvement
Clinical studies show significant improvement in skin oiliness, bounce, and dewy finish. Skin feels more balanced throughout the day with less midday shine.
100% showed improvement in oilinessEnhanced Radiance & Texture
Continued use improves overall skin radiance and texture. Antioxidant benefits become more noticeable with healthier-looking, more luminous skin.
97% report improved skin feelMicrobiome Support & Lasting Results
Prebiotic green tea supports long-term skin health and microbiome balance. Skin maintains consistent hydration and glow with regular use.
Sustained benefits with continued useβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Lightweight texture absorbs instantly without greasiness
- Delivers beautiful dewy glow without excess shine
- Effectively balances oil production throughout the day
- Layers perfectly under makeup without pilling
- Airless pump packaging is hygienic and travel-friendly
- Non-comedogenic β won't clog pores
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
- Luxurious sensorial experience
- Clinically proven results
β Criticized
- Premium price ($64 for 50ml)
- Not fungal acne safe
- Contains fragrance (though less than 1%)
- May not be hydrating enough for very dry skin
- Citrus oils may cause photosensitivity
- Not available in Japan despite J-beauty positioning
- Some prefer the richer texture of Dewy Skin Cream
- No significant anti-aging benefits
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Japanese brand with multiple hyaluronic acids. Gel texture provides similar lightweight hydration. Less elegant packaging but excellent value. Community favorite dupe.
Similar lightweight gel-cream texture with hyaluronic acid and ceramides. Fragrance-free option for sensitive skin. Less oil-balancing but similar dewy finish.
Closest ingredient match. Lightweight cream with Asian botanical focus. Bamboo extract for hydration. Similar luxurious feel but different key actives.
K-beauty option with blue hyaluronic acid, squalane, and ceramides. Similar hydrating-yet-lightweight philosophy. Great for combination skin seeking glow.
π Comparison with Competitors
Tatcha Dewy Milk Moisturizer
$64.00Tatcha The Dewy Skin Cream
$72.00Tatcha The Water Cream
$72.00Belif True Cream Aqua Bomb
$42.00π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening. Airless pump packaging helps maintain product freshness and prevents contamination.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration required. Keep at room temperature (59-77Β°F / 15-25Β°C).
Airless pump bottle β Tatcha's first moisturizer in this format. Hygienic dispensing, easy to control dosage, prevents oxidation.
Yes β 50ml is under 100ml/3.4oz TSA limit for carry-on. Pump dispenser won't leak. Mini size (15g) available for travel.
β Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, The Dewy Milk Moisturizer is pregnancy and breastfeeding safe. Tatcha confirms that all their products are pregnancy-friendly as they do not formulate with retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or other ingredients that health professionals recommend avoiding during pregnancy. The formula contains no harsh chemicals or teratogenic ingredients. However, if you have specific concerns, always consult with your healthcare provider before adding new products to your routine.
No, The Dewy Milk Moisturizer is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients that can potentially feed malassezia yeast, including Solanum Lycopersicum (Tomato) Seed Oil, PEG-60 Glyceryl Isostearate, Saccharomyces/Rice Ferment Filtrate (fermented ingredient), and Arginine in the presence of other lipids. If you're prone to fungal acne or pityrosporum folliculitis, consider The Water Cream (which has fewer triggers) or look for specifically fungal acne-safe alternatives.
Yes, The Dewy Milk Moisturizer can be used with most active ingredients. For retinol: apply the moisturizer after retinol to help buffer any irritation. For Vitamin C: use Vitamin C serum first (AM), wait for absorption, then apply moisturizer. For AHA/BHA: use exfoliating acids before moisturizer. The gentle formula layers well and won't cause pilling or interference. However, if you're using strong prescription retinoids, introduce slowly and monitor for irritation.
The Dewy Milk Moisturizer is specifically designed for combination to oily skin types. It's ideal for those who want hydration without heaviness, need oil control throughout the day, or love a dewy glow without greasiness. Normal skin types will also enjoy it, especially in warmer months. It may not be hydrating enough for very dry skin β those users should consider The Dewy Skin Cream instead. The formula is non-comedogenic and suitable for acne-prone skin (except fungal acne).
Results begin immediately with instant hydration and a visible dewy glow. Clinical studies show: After 1 use β 2x more skin bounce and instant dewy finish. After 1 week β 100% of participants showed improvement in skin oiliness, bounce, and dewy finish. After 2-4 weeks β enhanced overall radiance and skin texture improvement. After 4-8 weeks β long-term microbiome support benefits become evident. The product absorbs in under 30 seconds for 92% of users.
The Dewy Milk Moisturizer goes in Step 4 of a typical routine: 1) Cleanser β 2) Toner/Essence β 3) Serum β 4) Dewy Milk Moisturizer β 5) Face Oil (optional) β 6) Sunscreen (AM only). Apply after all water-based products and before any oils or SPF. Use 1-2 pumps morning and evening. It layers beautifully under makeup without pilling β no need to wait before applying foundation or primer.
No, The Dewy Milk Moisturizer is non-comedogenic with a comedogenic rating of approximately 1/5. Tatcha specifically formulated it not to clog pores, and clinical testing confirms its suitability for acne-prone skin. The lightweight milky texture absorbs quickly without leaving residue. Key hydrating ingredients like Squalane have a comedogenic rating of 0. However, individual reactions vary β patch test if you're concerned, especially if you have highly sensitive or reactive skin.
The Dewy Milk Moisturizer has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. Thanks to the airless pump packaging β Tatcha's first moisturizer in this format β the product maintains freshness longer than traditional jar packaging. The airless design prevents air and bacteria from entering the container, reducing oxidation and contamination. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight for best results. The 50ml bottle typically lasts 2-3 months with twice-daily use.
Verdict: The Tatcha Dewy Milk Moisturizer delivers on its promise of lightweight, oil-balancing hydration with a beautiful dewy finish. It's an excellent choice for combination to oily skin types seeking glow without greasiness, especially during warmer months. The innovative Zinc Hyaluronate formula effectively controls oil while providing lasting hydration. The premium price point is justified by clinical results, elegant packaging, and luxurious sensorial experience. However, it's not fungal acne safe and may not suffice for very dry skin. Best for those who loved the concept of Dewy Skin Cream but found it too rich β this is the perfect lightweight alternative.
Product Overview
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.
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
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 Β«promisesΒ» 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.
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
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.
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
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.
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 |
Saccharomyces/Rice Ferment Filtrate
Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 3 |
Dimethicone
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Antifoaming Agent, Skin Protecting
|
|
|
| 1 |
Squalane
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Hair Conditioning, Refatting
|
Hydrating
|

