C
Biore

UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence SPF50+ PA++++

58 /100
sunscreen 50g ~13EUR JP

Score breakdown

C

Efficacy

D

Safety

C

Comedogenicity

B

Transparency

B

Skin-type fit

Strengths

Weaknesses

Full ingredient list

1 ?
Aqua
2 ?
Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate
3 ?
Lauryl Methacrylate/Sodium Methacrylate Crosspolymer
4 ?
Isopropyl Palmitate
5 ?
Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate
6 ?
Alcohol
7 ?
Glycerin
8 ?
Dextrin Palmitate
9 ?
Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine
10 ?
Butylene Glycol
11 ?
Dimethicone
12 ?
Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer
13 ?
Sodium Hyaluronate
14 ?
Royal Jelly Extract
15 ?
BHT
16 ?
Citric Acid
17 ?
Disodium EDTA
18 ?
Isopropyl Myristate
19 ?
Agar
20 ?
Potassium Hydroxide

Best for

normal skin dryness

Our full review

The Japanese sunscreen that convinced the Western world that SPF doesn't have to feel like sunscreen. Biore UV Aqua Rich has a water-gel texture that's so lightweight it feels like nothing on your skin. No white cast, no greasiness, no pilling under makeup. It absorbs in seconds. SPF50+ PA++++ provides maximum protection. This is the product that started the 'Asian sunscreen' revolution. The catch? It contains alcohol denat high in the ingredient list (for the lightweight feel) and fragrance. Both can irritate sensitive skin and compromise barrier function with daily use. For non-sensitive skin that prioritizes cosmetic elegance, it's unbeatable. For sensitive/dry skin, European mineral or newer-gen chemical SPFs are safer.

How to use

Apply generously as last step of AM routine. The watery texture means you need more than you think (2 finger lengths for face). Reapply every 2 hours outdoors. Works perfectly under makeup. Shake before use.

Who is it for?

Best for: oily skin, combination skin, makeup wearers, anyone who hates the feel of traditional sunscreen, hot/humid climates. Less ideal for: dry skin (alcohol can dehydrate), sensitive skin (fragrance + alcohol), retinol users (compromised barrier + alcohol = bad combo).

What to expect

Immediate: invisible SPF protection, skin feels like nothing. The cosmetic elegance is the product's entire selling point. It's the most pleasant SPF application experience available. Long-term: sun protection preventing damage. But the alcohol + fragrance means it's not the healthiest daily choice for barrier function.

Common mistakes

1. Using on retinol-irritated skin (alcohol worsens it). 2. Not applying enough (lightweight = tendency to under-apply). 3. Thinking alcohol-free alternatives don't exist (Beauty of Joseon, Purito are alcohol-free). 4. Not reapplying because 'it doesn't feel like SPF' (UV protection still fades).

FAQ

Is the alcohol in Biore bad for skin?
Alcohol denat (denatured alcohol) at high concentrations can disrupt the skin barrier, increase TEWL (transepidermal water loss), and irritate sensitive skin. It gives Biore its lightweight feel but at a cost. For occasional use or non-sensitive oily skin, it's fine. For daily use on sensitive or retinol-treated skin, alcohol-free alternatives (Beauty of Joseon, LRP Anthelios) are better choices.

How it compares

Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence SPF50+ PA++++ vs Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun

Biore C (58) vs BOJ A (82). BOJ has NO alcohol, NO fragrance, adds niacinamide + rice bran + probiotics. Biore has alcohol + fragrance but a lighter texture. BOJ wins on formula quality AND skin health. Biore wins on pure cosmetic elegance (weightless). For healthy skin choice, BOJ. For the absolute lightest feel, Biore. BOJ is the smarter choice for daily use.

Better alternatives

A

La Roche-Posay

Anthelios UVMune 400 Invisible Fluid SPF50+ (Fragrance-Free)

89/100 - sunscreen
A

La Roche-Posay

Anthelios UVMune 400 SPF50+

87/100 - sunscreen
A

Summer Fridays

ShadeDrops Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Mineral Milk Sunscreen

86/100 - sunscreen
A

Mad Hippie

Daily protective serum.

85/100 - sunscreen