Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Gel SPF 50+ PA++++ (70ml) — Japanese Sunscreen for Face & Body
Note: Expires 6/6/26
A lightweight, watery-gel sunscreen from Japanese skincare brand Biore (by Kao), offering maximum broad-spectrum UV protection in one of the most wearable textures available. Designed for everyday use on both the face and body, it absorbs immediately without leaving a white cast, greasy residue, or sticky film — making it a firm favourite among those who find most sunscreens uncomfortable to wear daily. The formula uses a hybrid mineral-and-chemical UV filter system, alongside Biore's proprietary Micro Defense technology and hydrating skin care ingredients.
The Micro Defense Technology
UV Filter System — How the Broad-Spectrum Protection Works
- Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (Octinoxate) — A UVB filter widely used in sunscreens across Europe and Asia. Absorbs primarily in the UVB range (280–320nm), helping to protect against sunburn and surface UV damage. Combined with the other filters in this formula to deliver balanced broad-spectrum coverage.
- Ethylhexyl Triazone (Uvinul T 150) — A next-generation UVB filter with one of the highest photostability ratings among available UVB absorbers. Remains effective under prolonged sun exposure without significant breakdown, helping to maintain SPF performance throughout the day.
- Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate (Uvinul A Plus) — A UVA I filter that targets the deeper, longer UVA wavelengths (370–400nm) responsible for photoaging and pigmentation. Highly photostable and often used in high-SPF formulations requiring reliable long-wave UVA coverage.
- Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine (Tinosorb S) — Widely regarded as one of the most effective broad-spectrum UV filters currently available. Covers both UVA and UVB wavelengths (280–400nm) with excellent photostability, and also helps stabilise other filters in the formula. Approved for use across Europe, Australia, Japan, and much of Asia.
- Titanium Dioxide (Mineral UV Filter) — A physical (mineral) UV filter that reflects and scatters UV radiation across both UVB and UVA II wavelengths. Its inclusion in this formula is what makes the Watery Gel a hybrid sunscreen — combining the broad-spectrum coverage of mineral filters with the lightweight, invisible-finish properties of the chemical filters.
Key Skincare Ingredients & What They Do
- Sodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid) — A lower molecular weight form of hyaluronic acid that draws moisture into the skin and helps maintain hydration throughout the day. Counterbalances the potential drying effect of the alcohol content and helps keep the skin feeling comfortable under the sun.
- Royal Jelly Extract — A nutrient-dense secretion produced by honeybees, traditionally used in Japanese skincare for its skin-conditioning properties. Rich in amino acids and fatty acids that help smooth and soften the skin's surface, contributing to the gel's comfortable, skin-nourishing finish.
- Xylitol — A naturally derived sugar alcohol with effective humectant properties. Helps attract and retain moisture in the upper layers of the skin, supporting hydration and a comfortable feel throughout wear.
- Glycerin — A skin-identical humectant that draws water into the skin and helps form a breathable protective layer on the surface to minimise moisture loss.
- Butylene Glycol — A lightweight conditioning agent and humectant that also helps improve the texture and spreadability of the formula, allowing it to distribute evenly and thinly across both the face and body.
- Dextrin Palmitate — A plant-derived wax ester used in this formula as a film-forming agent. Contributes to the smooth, even-coverage finish and helps keep the sunscreen film intact on the skin's surface.
- Vinyl Dimethicone/Methicone Silsesquioxane Crosspolymer — A spherical silicone elastomer powder that gives the formula its characteristic soft, silky feel on application. Also provides a subtle soft-focus and pore-blurring effect, and contributes to the natural matte finish.
- Lauryl Methacrylate/Sodium Methacrylate Crosspolymer — A film-forming polymer that helps create a flexible, water-resistant layer on the skin. Plays a key role in the formula's waterproof performance, which has been confirmed in an 80-minute water resistance test.
- Propanediol — A sustainably derived humectant and solvent (typically produced from corn sugar) that helps improve the texture and application of the formula while supporting skin hydration.
Application Tip
Formula Overview
| SPF Rating | SPF 50+ PA++++ (maximum UVA protection rating) |
|---|---|
| Filter Type | Hybrid — mineral (Titanium Dioxide) + chemical UV filters |
| Finish | Natural matte; no white cast |
| Use | Face and body |
| Skin Type | All skin types; lower alcohol content than Watery Essence — suitable for sensitive skin |
| Water Resistance | Yes — confirmed in 80-minute water resistance test |
| Makeup Compatible | Yes — can be used as a makeup base; does not pill or clump |
| Removal | Removes with regular facial cleanser or soap — no dedicated remover needed |
| Fragrance | Contains fragrance (light white muguet / lily of the valley scent) |
| Size | 70ml / 2.36 fl. oz. |
| Origin | Made in Japan |
How to Use
- Apply as the final step of your morning skincare routine, after moisturiser.
- Dispense a generous amount and spread evenly over the face and/or body in smooth, outward strokes. Do not rub vigorously — spread gently to maintain an even protective film.
- Allow to absorb briefly before applying makeup.
- Reapply every two hours during prolonged outdoor exposure, or after sweating or swimming, to maintain protection.
- For body use: Apply to all exposed areas including neck, arms, and décolletage. The watery gel texture spreads efficiently over larger surface areas.
Full Ingredients List
Water, Ethanol, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Ethylhexyl Triazone, Isopropyl Palmitate, Lauryl Methacrylate/Sodium Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, Dextrin Palmitate, Butylene Glycol, Xylitol, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Dimethicone, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Glycerin, Glyceryl Stearate, Propanediol, Glyceryl Behenate, Vinyl Dimethicone/Methicone Silsesquioxane Crosspolymer, Cetyl Alcohol, Agar, Sorbitan Distearate, Isoceteth-20, Polyvinyl Alcohol, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Arginine, Disodium EDTA, Fragrance, BHT, Sodium Hydroxide, Tocopherol, Royal Jelly Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Phenoxyethanol, Methylparaben, Titanium Dioxide
Ingredients are subject to change at the manufacturer's discretion. Always refer to product packaging for the most current and complete list. This product is a cosmetic sunscreen and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition. For external use only. Avoid contact with eyes — rinse thoroughly with water if contact occurs. Keep out of reach of children.

