Kose Suncut UV Protect Essence SPF 50++++ – Review

This post will be reviewing the Kose Suncut UV Protect Essence SPF 50++++

Earlier this year, I started using and reviewing a bunch of Japanese sunscreens. This is because I wanted some alternatives to my staple Korean sunscreens. Some of which includes the Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence – 2021 Review and the Isehan Sunkiller Perfect Water Essence SPF50+ PA++++. As a result of the Korean sunscreen scandal that happened last year, I had to stay away for a bit. In the process, I’ve discovered some really amazing Japanese sunscreens for my dry dehydrated skin and this is one of them.

KOSE COSMEPORT is a Japanese Cosmetics manufacturer with Suncut as their sunscreen brand. They formulate about 20 different types of sunscreens for all skin types and different concerns. A look at their website shows all the sunscreens they offer. I don’t think I’ve ever seen any company that has a dedicated brand for sunscreen. It goes without saying that you’ll be getting the highest protection possible because a lot of extensive research and resources have gone into formulating these sunscreens.

I wasn’t even aware of how many sunscreens Suncut offers, I just randomly picked an essence sunscreen that I believed would work for my skin type. Thankfully, I did because I was not disappointed.

First Impressions of the Kose Suncut UV Protect Essence SPF 50++++

According to Kose;

A maximum UV protection factor* that actually adds moisture to your skin.

The essence glides onto your skin to create a translucent veil and prevent dryness and promote soft skin.

Also recommended as a make up base.

Suncreen Features & Claims

• Chemical UV Filters: Octinoxate, Uvinul A Plus, Tinosorb S & Parsol SLX .
• SPF 50+ blocks out 98% of UVB radiation.
• PA++++ is PPD 16 and above which is used to measure UVA protection. In the general scheme of things, it’s the highest protection you can get from a suncreen.
• Essential oil and Fragrance free but NOT Alcohol free although it is barely noticeable.
• Formulated with 10 moisturizing herbal extracts to protect the skin against moisture loss.
• Lightweight gel-cream texture.
• Non-sticky, non-greasy but dries down to a slightly dewy finish depending on what moisturizer is layered underneath.
• Not water or sweat resistant. Get the Kose – Suncut UV Perfect Essence Super Waterproof SPF 50+ PA++++ instead.

Texture & Consistency

So far, I’ve used about three Japanese sunscreens and it’s safe to say that they all have a variation of the same texture and consistency. This makes sense because I specifically look out for sunscreens that are described as ESSENCE.

This also has a lightweight gel-cream texture that glides on easily on the skin. Perhaps, my favourite thing about this sunscreen is how fast it takes to blend in. Since it’s a purely chemical sunscreen, I don’t need to spend too long blending to get rid of any potential white cast. Because there’s none. As a result of its texture and consistency, the product is buildable plus you can be as generous as you want as possible. If you decide to use this sunscreen for reapplication, it’s also a breeze.

Avalibility, Price & Packaging

The sunscreen comes in an 80g squeeze tube that dispenses perfectly. You don’t have to struggle to get the product out and there’s also no room for wastage as it dispenses the exact product you need. This is perfect for anyone using the two-finger rule for application.

It retails for around $8 – 15 depending on where you buy it. For an 80g worth of product, it’s not bad at all. Then again, that is one of the reasons I don’t joke with Japanese brands. However you see it, they’re still so affordable compared to what we get here in the west.

Review of the Kose Suncut UV Protect Essence SPF 50++++

So, I’ve been using this sunscreen for a couple of months now as my primary daily sunscreen. It’s currently almost Winter here in the UK so I don’t really reapply. The texture makes it so easy to be consistent so much that I actually look forward to applying it daily. I also go to the gym with it because I don’t sweat that much. If I did, I would have opted for a waterproof sunscreen.

Performance

Since I’ve been wearing it in the colder months, I can’t really judge how well it protected me except those few cold sunny days. But most importantly, I love how it prevents my hyperpigmentation from getting worse. That’s is also one of the key reasons I wear sunscreen religiously asides from the sun protection. But based on my experience with the strict Japanese cosmetic regulations, I’m not worried about not getting enough protection because I definitely am.

Again, reiterating the texture, it’s just so perfect for my dry dehydrated skin. It’s doesn’t feel too heavy or too lightweight. It’s just right! Even though I layer a hydrating serum and a moisturizing cream underneath, it still gives me a nice sweet glow that I carry around all day. I honestly can’t fault it.

Can I also mention how moisturizing it is? Despite the presence of alcohol on the ingredient list, I don’t notice it at all. Plus, it is fragrance-free so there’s no visible scent whatsoever. Except for the faint scent which is probably from the plant extracts.

So, this sunscreen can be used across all skin types particularly those that are prone to dehydration like dry to combination. But it is worth noting that is not water-proof, so it is not suitable for intense gym sessions or the beach. If you decide to give this sunscreen a try, you’ll honestly not regret it.

Finally,

The Kose Suncut UV Protect Essence is an underrated sunscreen that I don’t hear much about. So, if you’re looking for a new sunscreen that will provide very high protection, you should try this one.