Review | Bioré UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence Water Base SPF 50+ PA+++

With its mousse-like texture, this weightless sunscreen seems ideal for Singapore’s humid weather.

The most memorable thing about this product is its water-like sensation: Upon spreading the white mousse onto the face, it slowly becomes transparent and feels like water on the skin.

Contains unique Aqua Micro Capsules with UV block ingredient to provide superior SPF 50+/PA+++ protection while keeping skin cool and refreshed. It is enriched with Hyaluronic Acid & Citrus essence to hydrate and soften skin.

– Bioré

While it dries clear and almost-matte, that cooling sensation is unfortunately attributed to alcohol, second on the ingredient list (see below). The fumes are discernible upon application – and can be overwhelming – but they do dissipate and you’re left with a light citrus scent, similar to that of 2011’s Bioré Aqua Rich UV Face Mousse.

If you’re curious about the differences between the two, the Watery Essence can also be used on the body, while the earlier version is not formulated for that purpose. Also, this latest product is lighter in texture (I enjoyed the older sunscreen and didn’t think this was possible!) and dries down to an invisible finish. Contrary to the claims of the brand, it is by no means hydrating: The alcohol evaporates, leaving the skin somewhat matte but not markedly plumped up. That said, this product isn’t drying, thankfully.

In Singapore, this sunscreen retails at S$18.90 (50 g) and is available at Watsons stores across the island.

Ingredient list: Water (Aqua), Alcohol, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Lauryl Methacrylate/Sodium Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Dimethicone, Xylitol, Glyceryl Stearate, Acrylates/C10-30 Acrylate Crosspolymer, Agar, Polyvinyl Alcohol, Potassium Hydroxide, Fragrance (Parfum), Disodium EDTA, BHT, Sodium Hydroxide, Butylene Glycol, Propylene Glycol, Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Fruit Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Extract, Citrus Medica Limonum (Lemon) Fruit Extract, Phenoxyethanol, Methylparaben, Butylparaben, Ethylparaben, Propylparaben