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Winter Melon Suncreen SPF 50 + PA ++++

Winter Melon Suncreen SPF 50 + PA ++++

Product Description

Product overview

Made in Various INTERNATIONAL

A lightweight, fast-absorbing Vietnamese sunscreen with 5 next-generation UV filters (Tinosorb S, Tinosorb A2B, Uvinul A+, Uvinul T150, Parsol 1789), winter melon extract, niacinamide, and vitamin C derivative. Delivers broad-spectrum SPF 50+ PA++++ protection with a natural matte finish — ideal for oily, acne-prone, and sensitive skin.

SPF 50+ (Tested 56.1) PA++++ 5 UV Filters No White Cast Water Resistant Alcohol-Free Paraben-Free Fragrance-Free Vegan & Cruelty-Free Reef-Friendly
Pregnancy
Yes
Fungal Acne
No
Comedogenic
1/5
SPF
50+ (56.1)
PA Rating
PA++++
Size
50ml / 1.69 fl oz
Price
~$24.80
Cost/ml
$0.50/ml
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

Broad-Spectrum UV Protection

5 next-generation UV filters provide complete UVA + UVB coverage with tested SPF 56.1 and exceptional photostability.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Lightweight Lotion
Scent
Fragrance-Free
Absorption
Under 30 Seconds
Finish
Natural Matte

Broad-Spectrum UV Protection

5 next-generation UV filters provide complete UVA + UVB coverage with tested SPF 56.1 and exceptional photostability.

Winter Melon Extract

Vietnamese botanical with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that helps reduce acne and soothe irritated skin.

No White Cast

Ultra-light, fast-absorbing formula blends seamlessly into all skin tones without leaving any white residue or pilling.

Oil Control for 8+ Hours

Silica and methyl methacrylate crosspolymer absorb excess oil and reduce shine all day, perfect under makeup.

Antioxidant Defense

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (Vitamin C), and Tocopherol (Vitamin E) fight free radical damage.

Reef-Friendly Formula

Free from oxybenzone and octinoxate — the two sunscreen chemicals most harmful to coral reefs and marine life.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe

Free from retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, and oxybenzone. All UV filters used are considered safe during pregnancy by dermatologists.

Not Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Safe

Contains Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride and Glycine Soja Seed Extract — both can feed malassezia yeast. Avoid if you have active fungal acne.

Low Comedogenic Risk (1/5)

Most ingredients are non-comedogenic. Very low chance of clogging pores. Suitable for acne-prone skin.

Sensitive Skin Friendly

Free from alcohol, fragrances, parabens, sulfates, and mineral oil. Tested as non-irritating and eye-friendly.

Compatible with Retinol & Vitamin C

Can be layered over retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs. Apply sunscreen as the last skincare step before makeup.

Not FDA-Approved Filters

Contains Tinosorb S, Tinosorb A2B, and Uvinul A+ which are approved in EU, Asia, and Australia but not yet FDA-approved for the US market.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INGREDIENTS

Tinosorb S (Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine) Up to 10%Proven

One of the most advanced broad-spectrum UV filters available today, covering the entire UVB and UVA range (280–400nm). Highly photostable and helps stabilize avobenzone.

  • Peak Protection: ~310nm and ~345nm (broad UVA+UVB coverage)
  • Study: Ranked #1 in SPF efficiency among 18 EU-approved filters (2007 comparison study)
  • Safety: Does not show estrogenic activity; stays on skin surface without significant absorption
Oil-soluble and highly photostable — does not degrade in sunlight like older filters.

Tinosorb A2B (Tris-Biphenyl Triazine) Up to 10%Proven

The newest and most efficient UVB/UVA2 filter on the market. Bridges the common gap at 320–340nm that most filters miss.

  • Peak Protection: 310nm with UVA2 boosting effect
  • Technology: Hybrid organic microparticle — absorbs and scatters UV rays
  • Stability: Extremely photostable with high SPF performance at low concentrations

Uvinul A Plus (Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate) Up to 10%Proven

New-generation chemical filter with very strong UVA protection covering both UVA2 and UVA1 ranges. Excellent free radical protection.

  • Peak Protection: 354nm (deep UVA1 range)
  • Benefit: Provides protection against both UVA-induced aging and free radical damage
  • Approval: Available in EU and Asia; not yet FDA-approved

Winter Melon Extract (Benincasa Cerifera Fruit Extract)Promising

A traditional Vietnamese botanical rich in amino acids, mucins, minerals, vitamins B and C, and two potent antioxidant triterpenes (alunsenol and mutiflorenol).

  • Benefits: Anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and soothing properties
  • Traditional Use: Used in Vietnam, Thailand, and India for cooling, anti-acne, and burn treatment
  • Acne: Helps control comedonal acne, inflammatory acne, and post-acne marks

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)Proven

Multifunctional active that strengthens the skin barrier, boosts ceramide synthesis, and stimulates natural hyaluronic acid production.

  • Barrier Support: Promotes ceramide synthesis in the stratum corneum
  • Environmental Defense: Protects against pollution and dust damage
  • Brightening: Helps reduce hyperpigmentation and improve skin tone over time

Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (Vitamin C Derivative)Proven

A stable, oil-soluble form of vitamin C that penetrates skin effectively to provide antioxidant protection and brighten skin tone.

  • Stability: Much more stable than L-ascorbic acid — won't oxidize easily in the formula
  • Penetration: Oil-soluble nature allows better skin absorption than water-soluble vitamin C forms
  • Synergy: Works with vitamin E (tocopherol) for enhanced antioxidant protection

36 ingredients

Aqua/Water, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Isododecane, Cyclopentasiloxane, Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, Butyloctyl Salicylate, Tris-Biphenyl Triazine, Silica, Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Ethylhexyl Triazone, Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Ethylhexyl Methoxycrylene, Caprylyl Methicone, Benincasa Cerifera Fruit Extract, Niacinamide, Betaine, Hydroxymethoxyphenyl Decanone, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Seed Extract, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Trimethylsiloxysilicate, Glycerin, Propanediol, Butylene Glycol, Pentylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Tocopherol, Decyl Glucoside, Ethylhexylglycerin, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Disodium Phosphate, Xanthan Gum, Phenoxyethanol

FREE FROM: Alcohol, Parabens, Sulfates, Mineral Oil, Fragrances, Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, Harsh Alcohols, Common Allergens, Added Dyes
04

Where it fits in your routine

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

Always apply sunscreen as the last step of your skincare routine, before makeup. Use AM only. Pair with an oil cleanser at night for thorough removal.

05

How to use

HOW TO USE
1

Shake Well Before Use

Shake the bottle to ensure the UV filters and active ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the formula.

2

Apply Generously

Use approximately two finger-lengths of product. Apply evenly across the entire face and neck, 15 minutes before sun exposure.

3

Blend Gently

Pat and spread the sunscreen gently across the skin. It blends into a natural finish within 3 minutes — no white cast.

4

Reapply Every 2 Hours

Reapply throughout the day for continued protection, especially after sweating, swimming, or towel drying.

06

Who is it for?

WHO

Perfect for you if:

  • You have oily or combination skin that gets shiny throughout the day
  • You want a matte-finish sunscreen that works great under makeup
  • You need high UV protection without white cast on any skin tone
  • You prefer fragrance-free, alcohol-free, vegan products
  • You are looking for a reef-friendly sunscreen option
  • You want next-generation EU/Asian UV filters not found in US sunscreens

Consider alternatives if:

  • You have active fungal acne (contains Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride)
  • You prefer a dewy or glowy finish rather than matte
  • You have very dry skin and need a more hydrating sunscreen
  • You want a larger bottle size for body application
  • You strictly require FDA-approved UV filters only
07

Skin type compatibility

SKIN TYPES
Oily Skin
Excellent

Specifically formulated for oily skin. Silica and crosspolymer absorb excess sebum for an 8+ hour matte finish without greasiness.

Dry Skin
Moderate

The matte finish may feel drying. Layer over a hydrating moisturizer or serum for best results on dry skin.

Combination Skin
Excellent

Controls shine in the T-zone while feeling comfortable on drier cheek areas. Ideal balance for combination skin.

Sensitive Skin
Good

Fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and tested as non-irritating. Patch test recommended for very reactive or eczema-prone skin.

Acne-Prone Skin
Excellent

Low comedogenic rating (1/5), oil-controlling formula, and winter melon's antibacterial properties make this ideal for acne-prone skin.

08

Results timeline

3+ MONTHS
Immediately

Instant Matte Finish & UV Protection

Skin appears slightly brightened within the first 3 minutes of application, then settles to a natural, shine-free finish. Full SPF 50+ protection begins after 15 minutes.

95% noticed immediate shine reduction
1–2 Weeks

Reduced Redness & Fewer Breakouts

Winter melon extract and niacinamide begin calming inflammation. Less sun-triggered acne for those with reactive skin.

70% noticed fewer breakouts
4–8 Weeks

More Even Skin Tone

Consistent UV protection paired with niacinamide and vitamin C derivative helps fade dark spots and prevents new hyperpigmentation.

65% noticed brighter, more even skin
3+ Months

Visible Anti-Aging Benefits

Daily SPF 50+ use is clinically shown to slow photoaging. Users report smoother texture, fewer fine lines, and healthier-looking skin overall.

80% reported improved skin texture
09

Ratings by platform

2K+ REVIEWS
Amazon
4.3
Rating
150+
Reviews
Main complaint: Small bottle size (50ml) for the price; some users wish for a bigger option
Cocoon Original (Brand)
4.8
Rating
500+
Reviews
Main complaint: Frequently out of stock due to high demand; limited international availability
Vietnamese Beauty Community
4.7
Rating
2,000+
Reviews
Main complaint: Can feel slightly drying on very dry skin types without a good moisturizer underneath
SkinSort Community
Highly Rated
Rating
34
Routines
Main complaint: Contains Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride which is not fungal acne safe
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Exceptional UV protection with 5 next-gen filters (SPF 56.1 tested)
  • Zero white cast — blends into all skin tones seamlessly
  • Matte finish controls oil and shine for 8+ hours
  • Fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and vegan/cruelty-free
  • Works beautifully as a makeup primer
  • Reef-friendly (no oxybenzone or octinoxate)
  • Contains skin-benefitting actives (niacinamide, vitamin C, vitamin E)
  • Water resistant for 80 minutes

Criticized

  • Small 50ml bottle — runs out quickly with daily use
  • Not fungal acne safe (contains triglycerides)
  • Can feel drying on very dry skin without moisturizer
  • UV filters not FDA-approved (unavailable in US-made products)
  • Limited international availability — frequently out of stock
  • Higher price per ml compared to some competitors
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
82% Match
Super Moisture UV Gel SPF 50+ PA++++
$12.99
Budget Pick

Japanese sunscreen with similar lightweight gel texture and high protection. Uses different filters (including octinoxate). More hydrating but less matte — better for dry/normal skin. Larger 110g size is a better value.

75% Match
UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence SPF 50+ PA++++
$14.50
Budget Pick

Cult-favorite Japanese sunscreen with a watery, lightweight texture. Contains alcohol for quick drying. Less suitable for sensitive or dry skin but very popular for oily skin. Not as photostable as Cocoon's filter system.

70% Match
Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF 50 PA+++
$16.00
Budget Pick

Korean sunscreen with aloe vera for soothing. Only PA+++ (lower UVA protection). Creamier texture, more hydrating but less matte. Good for sensitive/dry skin but not as suitable for oily skin types.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE
UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence SPF 50+ PA++++
UV Filters 4 Filters
SPF / PA SPF 50+ / PA++++
Size 70g
Finish Dewy / Watery
White Cast None
Alcohol-Free No (Contains Alcohol)
Fragrance-Free No (Fragranced)
Water Resistant No
Anthelios Uvmune 400 Invisible Fluid SPF50+
UV Filters 4 Filters + Mexoryl 400
SPF / PA SPF 50+ / PPD 46
Size 50ml
Finish Invisible / Natural
White Cast None
Alcohol-Free No (Contains Alcohol)
Fragrance-Free Yes
Water Resistant Yes
Relief Sun Aqua-Fresh Rice + B5 SPF 50+
UV Filters 3 Filters
SPF / PA SPF 50+ / PA++++
Size 50ml
Finish Dewy / Hydrating
White Cast Minimal
Alcohol-Free Yes
Fragrance-Free Yes
Water Resistant No
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. Screw the cap tightly after each use.

Packaging

Opaque squeeze tube with screw cap — protects UV filters from light degradation

Travel Friendly

Yes — 50ml is under the 100ml carry-on liquid limit for flights

13

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

Yes. This sunscreen does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or oxybenzone — the ingredients most commonly flagged during pregnancy. The chemical UV filters used (Tinosorb S, Tinosorb A2B, Uvinul A+, Uvinul T150, Avobenzone) are considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding by dermatologists. However, always consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.

No. This sunscreen contains Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride and Glycine Soja (Soybean) Seed Extract, both of which can potentially feed malassezia yeast and trigger fungal acne. If you are prone to fungal acne, consider alternatives with simpler formulas that avoid triglycerides, fatty acids, and esters.

Yes. This sunscreen is compatible with all common actives including retinol, vitamin C serums, AHAs (glycolic acid, lactic acid), and BHAs (salicylic acid). In fact, sunscreen is essential when using these actives as they increase photosensitivity. Apply your actives first, let them absorb, then apply this sunscreen as the last step before makeup.

This sunscreen is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. Its matte finish, oil-absorbing properties (silica and crosspolymers), and winter melon's antibacterial benefits make it ideal for those who struggle with shine and breakouts. It also works well for sensitive skin thanks to its fragrance-free, alcohol-free formula. Dry skin types may find it slightly drying without a hydrating moisturizer underneath.

UV protection is immediate (allow 15 minutes for full absorption before sun exposure). Oil control and matte finish are instant. Within 1–2 weeks of daily use, you may notice reduced redness and fewer breakouts. After 4–8 weeks, niacinamide and vitamin C begin to visibly improve skin tone and brightness. Long-term daily use (3+ months) provides cumulative anti-aging benefits.

Apply as the very last step of your morning skincare routine, after cleanser, toner, serum, and moisturizer — but before makeup or primer. Use approximately two finger-lengths for the face and neck. This is an AM-only product. At night, remove with an oil cleanser or double cleanse method for thorough removal of the UV filters.

This sunscreen has a very low comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. The majority of ingredients are non-comedogenic, and the lightweight lotion texture is specifically formulated for oily, acne-prone skin. It is very unlikely to clog pores. However, everyone's skin is different — if you are extremely acne-prone, patch test on a small area first.

The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal efficacy. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and always close the cap tightly after use. With daily face application (two finger-lengths), a 50ml bottle typically lasts about 4–6 weeks.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.5 / 5 ★★★★★

Verdict: The Cocoon Winter Melon Sunscreen is an impressive Vietnamese sunscreen that punches well above its price point. With 5 next-generation UV filters delivering lab-tested SPF 56.1 and PA++++, it offers protection rivaling European pharmacy sunscreens at a fraction of the cost. The matte, no-white-cast formula is perfectly tailored for oily and acne-prone skin, while bonus actives like niacinamide and vitamin C add skincare benefits beyond sun protection. The only notable drawbacks are its small 50ml size and the presence of triglycerides that make it unsuitable for fungal acne. For anyone seeking a high-performance, vegan, reef-friendly daily sunscreen — especially for tropical climates — this is an outstanding 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 3 ingredient(s):
Niacinamide Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate Tocopherol
brightening Brightening from 3 ingredient(s):
Niacinamide Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate Glycerin
wound Promotes Wound Healing from 3 ingredient(s):
Niacinamide Glycerin Tocopherol
ache Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
Niacinamide
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
1
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
77% 5% 16%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 36 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
1 Unknown
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
1 A
C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Antimicrobial
1 B
Isododecane
Solvent, Perfuming, Emollient, Fragrance
3 A
Cyclopentasiloxane
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Hair Conditioning
0 Unknown
Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine
Skin Conditioning, Uv Absorber, Uv Filter
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS