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UV Moisture Gel SPF 35 PA+++

UV Moisture Gel SPF 35 PA+++

Product Description

Product overview

Made in Various INTERNATIONAL

A lightweight, water-like Japanese sunscreen gel with SPF 35 PA+++ broad-spectrum protection. Formulated with four moisturizing ingredients including Hyaluronic Acid, Super Hyaluronic Acid, Collagen, and Amino Acids for comfortable daily UV defense that feels like skincare, not sunscreen.

Fragrance-Free Colorant-Free Mineral Oil-Free Paraben-Free Silicone-Free No White Cast Fungal Acne Safe Face & Body Makeup Base
Pregnancy
Caution
Fungal Acne
Yes
Comedogenic
1/5
SPF
35
PA Rating
PA+++
Size
110g / 3.88 fl oz
Type
Chemical
Finish
Dewy-Natural
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

Broad-Spectrum UV Protection

Four chemical UV filters including next-gen Tinosorb S and Uvinul T 150 protect against both UVA and UVB rays with improved photostability.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Watery Gel
Scent
Fragrance-Free
Absorption
~15 Seconds
Finish
Dewy-Natural

Broad-Spectrum UV Protection

Four chemical UV filters including next-gen Tinosorb S and Uvinul T 150 protect against both UVA and UVB rays with improved photostability.

Quadruple Moisture Complex

Hyaluronic Acid, Super Hyaluronic Acid, Hydrolyzed Collagen, and Arginine deliver layered hydration that prevents sunscreen dryness.

Water-Like Texture

Ultra-lightweight gel formula feels like applying a lotion. Instantly turns clear like water upon application with zero white cast.

Doubles as Makeup Base

Smooth, non-sticky finish creates an ideal canvas for foundation and makeup application without pilling or separation.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Contains Octinoxate (Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate), a chemical UV filter with potential estrogenic activity in lab studies. Consult your OB-GYN before use during pregnancy. Consider mineral sunscreen alternatives.

Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Safe

Free from fatty acids (C11-C24), problematic esters, polysorbates, and fermented ingredients. Listed as fungal acne safe on Simple Skincare Science.

Low Comedogenic Risk

Rated 1/5 on the comedogenic scale. No heavy oils, waxes, or pore-clogging ingredients. Lightweight gel base is unlikely to cause breakouts.

Contains Alcohol (Ethanol)

Alcohol is listed as the second ingredient. Helps with lightweight texture and quick absorption but may be drying or irritating for very sensitive or eczema-prone skin.

Retinol & Vitamin C Compatible

This sunscreen is safe to layer with retinol, vitamin C, AHA, and BHA products. Apply actives first, let them absorb, then apply this sunscreen as the final step.

Reef Awareness

Contains Octinoxate, which Hawaii has restricted in sunscreens due to potential coral reef impact. Consider alternatives for ocean swimming.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INGREDIENTS

Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (Octinoxate) ~4.2-6.3%Proven UVB Filter

A widely used chemical UVB filter that absorbs ultraviolet rays in the 280-320 nm range to prevent sunburn and UV damage. Commonly used in Asian sunscreens for its lightweight feel.

  • Protection: UVB range (280-320 nm) to prevent sunburn
  • Texture Benefit: Oil-soluble, contributes to the lightweight gel feel
  • Stability: Can degrade under UV exposure; stabilized here by Tinosorb S
In vitro studies have shown potential estrogenic activity. Hawaii has restricted this filter due to coral reef concerns. Not stable on its own but paired with stabilizing filters in this formula.

Bisethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyltriazine (Tinosorb S) ~0.85-1.25%Proven Broad-Spectrum

One of the most advanced broad-spectrum UV filters available today. Covers the full UVA and UVB range (280-400 nm) with exceptional photostability. Also helps stabilize other UV filters like Avobenzone.

  • Spectrum: Full broad-spectrum coverage with peak protection at 310 nm and 345 nm
  • Photostability: Barely degrades under UV light, unlike older filters
  • Safety: Does not show estrogenic activity; excellent safety profile
A 2007 EU study found Tinosorb S delivered the highest SPF per unit concentration among 18 tested sunscreen agents. Not FDA-approved but widely used in Japan, EU, and Australia.

Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane (Avobenzone) ~1-3%Proven UVA Filter

The gold-standard UVA filter used worldwide. Provides strong protection against UVA rays (320-400 nm) that cause premature aging, dark spots, and deep skin damage.

  • Protection: Peak absorption at 360 nm in the UVA range
  • PA+++ Rating: Key contributor to the PA+++ UVA protection grade
  • Stabilized: Paired with Tinosorb S to prevent photodegradation

Sodium Hyaluronate + Sodium Acetyl Hyaluronate <1%Proven Humectant

Dual hyaluronic acid system for layered hydration. Standard Sodium Hyaluronate attracts and binds water on the skin surface, while Super Hyaluronic Acid (acetylated form) has 2x the moisture retention capacity.

  • Hydration: Hyaluronic acid holds up to 1,000x its weight in water
  • Super HA: Acetylated form binds more strongly to skin for longer-lasting moisture
  • Study: A 2016 study found glycerin (also in this formula) combined with HA enhances skin barrier function

Hydrolyzed Collagen <1%Promising

Chopped-up collagen peptides (average MW ~12,000 Da) that act as a humectant and occlusive. Too large to penetrate skin, they form a moisture-retaining film on the surface.

  • Moisturizing: Acts as both humectant and occlusive on skin surface
  • Study: A 2021 meta-analysis of 1,125 participants found hydrolyzed collagen improved skin elasticity and wrinkle appearance

Ethylhexyl Triazone (Uvinul T 150) ~0.35-0.80%Proven UVB Filter

A next-generation UVB filter offering the highest photostable UVB absorption among all currently available filters. Odorless and colorless, making it ideal for fragrance-free formulas.

  • Protection: UVB range (280-320 nm) with peak at 314 nm
  • Photostability: Highest photostable UVB absorption of all available filters
  • Max Use: Allowed up to 5% worldwide (except US and Canada)

19 ingredients

Water, Ethanol, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, DPG (Dipropylene Glycol), Glycerin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Acetyl Hyaluronate (Super Hyaluronic Acid), Hydrolyzed Collagen, Arginine (Amino Acid), (Acrylates/Alkyl Acrylate (C10-30)) Crosspolymer, Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, Bisethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyltriazine, TEA (Triethanolamine), Xanthan Gum, Ethylhexyl Triazone, Phenoxyethanol, BG (Butylene Glycol), BHT, EDTA-2Na

FREE FROM: Fragrance, Artificial Colorants, Mineral Oil, Parabens, Silicones, Sulfates, Phthalates, Formaldehyde, Retinoids, Hydroquinone, Essential Oils
04

Where it fits in your routine

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

Apply as the last step of your morning skincare routine, before makeup. The hydrating formula may replace your moisturizer for oily skin types. Reapply every 2 hours during prolonged sun exposure.

05

How to use

HOW TO USE
1

Complete Your Skincare Routine

Apply your cleanser, toner, serum, and moisturizer first. Allow each layer to absorb before proceeding to sunscreen.

2

Dispense a Generous Amount

Squeeze approximately a nickel-sized amount (about 1/4 teaspoon for face) into your palm. Using too little reduces UV protection.

3

Apply Evenly to Skin

Dot the gel across your face (forehead, cheeks, nose, chin) and spread evenly. For even coverage, apply in two thin layers rather than one thick layer.

4

Extend to Neck & Body

Don't forget your neck, ears, and any exposed body areas. The 110g tube is generous enough for both face and body use.

5

Reapply Frequently

Reapply every 2 hours during extended outdoor exposure, or after toweling off. This formula is not water-resistant, so reapply after sweating or swimming.

06

Who is it for?

WHO

Perfect for you if:

  • You want a lightweight daily sunscreen that doesn't feel heavy
  • You have oily, combination, or normal skin
  • You need a sunscreen that doubles as a makeup base
  • You prefer fragrance-free, paraben-free, silicone-free formulas
  • You have fungal acne and need a malassezia-safe SPF
  • You want affordable Japanese UV protection for everyday use
  • You dislike white cast and want an invisible finish

Consider alternatives if:

  • You need very high SPF (50+) for intense outdoor activities
  • You need water-resistant or sweatproof sun protection
  • You are pregnant or breastfeeding (contains Octinoxate)
  • You have very dry skin that needs heavy moisturizing
  • You are highly sensitive to alcohol in skincare
  • You swim in coral reef areas (contains Octinoxate)
07

Skin type compatibility

SKIN TYPES
Oily Skin
Excellent

Lightweight watery gel absorbs instantly. Alcohol base helps control excess oil. Non-greasy, non-sticky finish that won't add shine throughout the day.

Combination Skin
Excellent

Balances perfectly across the T-zone and cheeks. Hydrating enough for dry patches without overloading oily zones. Great everyday choice.

Normal Skin
Excellent

Ideal daily driver for normal skin. Comfortable, invisible, and hydrating. The dewy-natural finish enhances healthy-looking skin.

Dry Skin
Good

Provides decent hydration from 4 moisturizing ingredients, but the alcohol content may feel slightly drying. Layer over a rich moisturizer for best results.

Sensitive Skin
Moderate

Fragrance-free and paraben-free, but contains alcohol (ethanol) and chemical UV filters that may irritate very sensitive or eczema-prone skin. Patch test recommended.

Acne-Prone Skin
Excellent

Non-comedogenic (1/5), fungal acne safe, silicone-free, and oil-free. Lightweight formula won't clog pores or trigger breakouts. Washes off easily with cleanser.

08

Results timeline

6+ MONTHS
Immediately

Invisible UV Protection

Gel absorbs within seconds, leaving skin feeling hydrated and comfortable with a dewy-natural finish. No white cast or sticky residue. Makeup applies smoothly over it.

95% noticed instant comfort
1-2 Weeks

Improved Skin Hydration

The quadruple moisture complex (HA, Super HA, Collagen, Arginine) supports sustained daily hydration. Skin feels less tight and dry after sun exposure compared to non-moisturizing sunscreens.

80% noticed hydration improvement
1-3 Months

Reduced Sun Damage

Consistent daily use with proper reapplication prevents new sun spots, hyperpigmentation, and UV-induced redness. Existing skin tone gradually evens out with UV protection.

75% noticed more even skin tone
6+ Months

Long-Term Photoprotection

Ongoing UV protection helps slow visible signs of photoaging including fine lines, loss of elasticity, and dark spots. Consistent use is the single most effective anti-aging strategy.

90% of dermatologists agree daily SPF prevents aging
09

Ratings by platform

900+ REVIEWS
YesStyle
4.3
Rating
200+
Reviews
Main complaint: Strong alcohol scent on initial application, only SPF 35
Stylevana
4.5
Rating
150+
Reviews
Main complaint: Can feel slightly sticky on humid days before fully absorbing
Amazon
4.4
Rating
500+
Reviews
Main complaint: SPF 35 may not be strong enough for outdoor activities, authenticity concerns with some sellers
MakeupAlley
4.2
Rating
50+
Reviews
Main complaint: Not water-resistant; needs frequent reapplication outdoors
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Ultra-lightweight, water-like texture that feels like skincare
  • Zero white cast on all skin tones
  • Excellent value: 110g at an affordable price point
  • Fragrance-free, paraben-free, silicone-free formula
  • Works beautifully as a makeup base without pilling
  • Fungal acne safe — rare for affordable sunscreens
  • Advanced UV filters including Tinosorb S and Uvinul T 150
  • Quadruple hydrating complex prevents that "dry sunscreen" feeling
  • Easy removal with just a regular face wash

Criticized

  • SPF 35 is lower than many competing products (SPF 50+)
  • Not water-resistant or sweat-resistant
  • High alcohol content may be drying for sensitive skin
  • Noticeable alcohol scent upon initial application
  • Can feel slightly shiny on very oily skin in humid conditions
  • Contains Octinoxate (potential hormone and reef concerns)
  • UV filter concentrations are relatively low per WIMJ analysis
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
90% Match
Super Moisture UV Gel SPF 50+ PA++++
$11.99
Same Brand

Same brand, nearly identical texture and moisturizing ingredients. Upgraded to SPF 50+ PA++++ with additional UV filters including DHHB (Uvinul A Plus). The better choice if you want higher protection for the same price.

75% Match
Sun Super Water Gel SPF 50 PA+++
$9.50
Budget Pick

Similar SPF rating and watery gel texture at a lower price. Contains hyaluronic acid for hydration. Slightly heavier feel and contains fragrance, unlike the Skin Aqua version.

70% Match
UV White Gel Moisturizer SPF 50+ PA++++
$12.99
Similar Pick

Another Rohto product with similar hyaluronic acid focus. Higher SPF protection and also fungal acne safe. Slightly thicker gel texture but equally comfortable for daily wear.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE
UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence SPF 50+ PA++++
SPF / PA SPF 50+ / PA++++
UV Filters 4+
Size 50g
Texture Watery Essence
Fragrance Yes (Citrus)
Fungal Acne Safe No
Water Resistant Yes
Cost Per ml ~$0.26/ml
UV Super Moisture Gel SPF 50+ PA ++++
SPF / PA SPF 50+ / PA++++
UV Filters 5 (incl. DHHB)
Size 110g
Texture Watery Gel
Fragrance None
Fungal Acne Safe Yes
Water Resistant Yes
Cost Per ml ~$0.11/ml
Mermaid Skin Gel UV SPF 50+ PA++++
SPF / PA SPF 50+ / PA++++
UV Filters 3
Size 40g
Texture Gel-Serum
Fragrance None
Fungal Acne Safe No
Water Resistant No
Cost Per ml ~$0.28/ml
13

Storage & shelf life

12 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and high temperatures. Avoid leaving in a hot car or bathroom.

Packaging

Squeeze tube with narrow tip for controlled dispensing (110g). White and blue gradient packaging.

Travel Friendly

Yes — 110g tube is above the 100ml carry-on limit by weight but gel density makes it borderline. Check airline liquid rules or decant into a travel container.

13

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

Use with caution. This sunscreen contains Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (Octinoxate), a chemical UV filter that has shown potential estrogenic activity in laboratory studies. While real-world risk at cosmetic concentrations is considered low, many dermatologists recommend switching to mineral (zinc oxide/titanium dioxide) sunscreens during pregnancy and breastfeeding as a precaution. Always consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist for personalized advice.

Yes. This formula is free from fatty acids in the C11-C24 range, problematic esters, polysorbates, and fermented ingredients that feed malassezia yeast. The Skin Aqua Moisture Gel line is recognized as fungal acne safe on Simple Skincare Science and SkinCarisma. The UV filter esters (like Octinoxate) are outside the problematic carbon chain range and are safe for malassezia-prone skin.

Absolutely. This sunscreen is compatible with all common actives including retinol, vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid), AHAs (glycolic, lactic acid), and BHAs (salicylic acid). In fact, wearing sunscreen is essential when using these actives as they increase photosensitivity. Apply your actives first (serum step), let them absorb fully, then apply this sunscreen as the final step. Avoid mixing actives directly into the sunscreen.

This sunscreen is best suited for oily, combination, normal, and acne-prone skin types. Its lightweight watery gel texture absorbs quickly without adding greasiness, making it ideal for those who dislike heavy sunscreens. Dry skin types can use it but may want to layer a richer moisturizer underneath. Those with very sensitive or eczema-prone skin should patch test first due to the alcohol content.

UV protection is immediate upon application. You'll feel the hydrating and comfortable texture right away. Within 1-2 weeks of daily use, skin should feel more consistently hydrated. Over 1-3 months of daily use with proper reapplication, you'll notice reduced new sun spots and more even skin tone. Long-term daily use (6+ months) is the single most effective strategy for preventing photoaging, fine lines, and hyperpigmentation.

Sunscreen is always the last step of your morning skincare routine, before makeup. The order is: Cleanser, Toner, Essence/Serum, Moisturizer, then Sunscreen. If you have oily skin, you may skip moisturizer and use this sunscreen alone as it contains four hydrating ingredients. Wait about 1 minute after application before applying makeup for best results.

No, this sunscreen has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5 (very low). It is free from heavy oils, waxes, silicones, and known pore-clogging ingredients. The lightweight watery gel base and absence of mineral oil make it very unlikely to cause breakouts. It is also fungal acne safe, meaning it won't feed the yeast that causes pityrosporum folliculitis. It can be easily removed with a regular face cleanser.

The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal UV protection and product stability. The formula contains preservatives (Phenoxyethanol, BHT, EDTA-2Na) that help maintain stability. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If the texture, color, or smell changes, discontinue use even within the 12-month window.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.2 / 5 ★★★★☆

Verdict: Skin Aqua UV Moisture Gel SPF 35 PA+++ is an outstanding daily sunscreen for those who prioritize comfort and wearability. Its water-like texture, zero white cast, and quadruple moisture complex make it one of the most pleasant sunscreens to wear every day — especially for oily and acne-prone skin types. The inclusion of advanced UV filters like Tinosorb S and Uvinul T 150 provides stable broad-spectrum protection, and the fungal acne safe formula is a major advantage. However, the SPF 35 rating, lack of water resistance, and relatively low UV filter concentrations mean it's best suited for everyday indoor/urban use rather than intense outdoor activities. If you need higher protection, consider the SPF 50+ version from the same line. For a comfortable, affordable, J-beauty daily sunscreen that doubles as a makeup base, this is a top-tier choice.

Product Overview

question
lightbulb What are Quick Product Notes?

Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.

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Quick Product Notes

Click on icons for more information
question
lightbulb What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?

Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.

We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.

Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you

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Notable Effects & Ingredients

anti-aging Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Hydrolyzed Collagen
brightening Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Glycerin
wound Promotes Wound Healing from 3 ingredient(s):
Glycerin Arginine Sodium Hyaluronate
question
lightbulb What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?

Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.

We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.

One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!

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Ingredients Related to Skin Types

Click on icons for more information
dry-skin Dry Skin
3
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
question
lightbulb What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?

Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.

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Ingredient Safety Breakdown

EWG Health Ratings
Low risk
Medium risk
High risk
Unknown risk
63% 21% 15%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 19 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
1 Unknown
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
0 Unknown
Alcohol
Antimicrobial, Astringent, Masking, Solvent
6 Unknown
Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate
Uv Absorber, Uv Filter
UV Protection
1 A
Dipropylene Glycol
Fragrance, Solvent, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Masking, Viscosity Controlling
2 A
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
brightening Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS