This post will be reviewing the Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence.
I’m so excited about this review because I haven’t been this excited about a sunscreen that ticked all my boxes in a while.
For the past few months now, I’ve been trying various European sunscreens.
This is because they have been independently tested and proven to offer very high protection.
When a sunscreen is labelled SPF 50+, you’re getting exactly that.
Plus, it is Summer, so it is a struggle to find one that is lightweight, hydrating, and dewy-finishing.
With all the controversies surrounding Korean sunscreens, which are typically my staple products, I decided to explore Japanese sunscreens instead.
Naturally, Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence was the first product I decided to try.
I’m currently almost done with it, but I’ve immediately ordered a replacement, and it is in transit as we speak.
This is how much my dry, dehydrated skin loves this sunscreen.
Without further ado, let’s dive in!
First Impression of the Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence
I’m sure you’ve come across Biore products at one point or the other.
You’ll be happy to know that it is originally a Japanese brand owned by Kao Cooperation and established in 1887.
However, they launched in the U.S. market in 1997, which is why many of their products are in drugstores.
However, the problem with these products is that they have been altered to cater to the U.S. market.
This is why I never hesitate to buy my products directly from Japan; I know I will be getting authentic Japanese products.
I’m not sure how the Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence became one of the most popular sunscreens in Japan.
But it is and I’m so glad I get to access it.
According to Yesstyle,
This updated version of Biore’s most loved UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence SPF 50+ PA++++ is powered by the innovative Micro Defense formula to prevent uneven application.
The colourless essence forms an invisible waterproof shield on the skin without feeling sticky.
Hyaluronic acid, royal jelly and other moisturizing ingredients keep skin comfortable and hydrated.
Excellent as a primer!
Product Features
- UV Filters: Octinoxate, Uvinul T 150, Uvinul A Plus & Tinosorb S (all chemical filters)
- Water & Sweat Resistant for up to 80 minutes.
- Lightweight and hydrating formula with Hyaluronic Acid & Royal Jelly.
- NOT Alcohol and Fragrance-Free
- No eye stings
- It works for all skin types except those sensitive to alcohol and fragrance.
- Non-greasy but dries down to a dewy/glowy finish.
The beauty of Japanese products is that they’re constantly reformulated and updated to improve the product.
So, make sure you’re buying the latest 2019 version.
Texture & Consistency
After using quite a few milk sunscreens like the Missha Essence Sun Milk, I’ve come to prefer essence-type sunscreens for my dry, dehydrated skin, especially in the Summer.
During the colder months, I gravitate towards thicker creams like the Cosrx Aloe Soothing Sun Cream.
Thankfully, Japanese Sunscreens always have different textures for different skin types.
This is why I’ve has ordered three more essence sunscreens to try out.
Just as the name implies, it has a lightweight texture that immediately melts into your skin.
I know a lot of people sometimes struggle to use the appropriate amount of required sunscreen which is two-three fingers.
But this sunscreen is so pleasant to use that it’s tempting to apply multiple layers.
The texture of this product works so well that it can be used by all skin types.
It’s not too heavy and will not clog your pores if you have oily to combination skin.
It is also equally hydrating enough for dry, dehydrated skin. This sunscreen is literally a superstar!
Availability & Price
Because of its popularity, this sunscreen is pretty easy to find. But be careful and make sure you’re buying from an authorized retailer because I hear there are fakes circulating the market.
For less than $20, you get either the 50g or 85g size.
If your skin is sensitive to alcohol and fragrance, you can try the smaller 50g size and see if you like it.
If your skin is not, then you can go ahead and get the 85g.
I promise you the product is so good that it makes up for its shortcomings.
Review of the Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence
I got the 50g size a while back but I finally got around to using it about a month ago.
As a result of the heavy presence of alcohol in the sunscreen – it is the second ingredient – I was a bit sceptical.
But after using it for a while, it no longer bothers me.
Neither does the slight fragrance.
So, it suffices to say that my skin is not sensitive to alcohol and/or fragrance.
Performance
This has been my go-to sunscreen this Summer, and I’m so sad I’ve almost run out.
Asides from the overwhelming scent of alcohol which dissipates after a few minutes, I love the cooling sensation after application.
I mean, there’s a reason why it is described as a ‘Watery Essence’.
It is the perfect Summer sunscreen.
I apply two-three fingers worth of product in the morning at the end of my brief routine.
After the initial application, I found that it had a slight white cast, which disappeared after a bit of rubbing.
So, I go in in layers.
After a few minutes, I’m left with hydrated and dewy skin.
For someone who doesn’t wear makeup but loves dewy sunscreen, this product is just perfect!
The dewiness doesn’t come later on like some other sunscreens.
This one is literally instant.
You can feel the glow before you step out of your house.
The best thing?
The glow lasts all day or until I reapply.
After being indoors all day, I tend to reapply on my way back home around 4 – 5pm.
This time, I used a different fluid sunscreen that was easier to blend in without a mirror.
Plus, as an independently tested sunscreen, I’m sure I’m getting the full protection of SPF 50+.
This means that my hyperpigmentation fades quickly, and I’m very well protected from both UVA and UVB sun rays.
Alternative Japanese Essence Sunscreens Worth Trying
If you have dry, dehydrated skin like me and you’re looking to try other hydrating essence sunscreens, here are a few suggestions.
Remember, if it doesn’t work for your face, you can always use it on your body.
- Verdio UV Moisture Essence SPF 50+ PA++++
- ISEHAN – Kiss Me Sunkiller Perfect Water Essence SPF 50+ PA++++
- Kose – Suncut Water In UV Protect Essence SPF 50+ PA++++
- Kao – Curel UV Protection Essence SPF 30 PA+++
In Conclusion,
As you can tell, I absolutely love the Biory UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence for my dry, dehydrated skin.
I’ll definitely be repurchasing it until I find the next best sunscreen.
Hi! I also have been using this sunscreen. But I find that the newer bottle (the one with “Aqua Rich” written big on the front side) gives off a rather strong alcohol smell, unlike the previous version. I thought it was fake. But apparently yours give off alcohol smell too and that’s ok ya?
Yes, it’s absolutely fine to use.