This new release by Nivea Japan stands out from older formulas. I stopped using Kao’s sunscreens about five years ago when they became sticky and gloopy. It was the same issue across all brands, like the gluey Watery Gel. But, since then, Kao have learnt a lot and improved their sunscreens. Again, we are starting to see lightweight, watery sunscreens that fulfil promises on their labels. 

This formula exclusively contains chemical filters. It’s rich in alcohol, but its drying effect is mitigated by emollients and much-appreciated nutrients like mannitol, hyaluronic acid, and rose water. The product has a pleasant floral scent. 

This high-protection watery Essence blends into the skin, leaving no trace behind. I can apply layers upon layers of this sunscreen, and I feel nothing on my skin. If you like transparent sunscreens with no ashy or white cast, this product is for you. Unfortunately, it leaves a shiny layer on the skin, as there’s nothing in the formula to absorb UV filters’ oiliness. I reduce the glistening by dusting the T-zone with my trusted Kokuryudo powder, but I leave the U-zone glowing. It makes the skin look lively. Another, albeit temporary, issue with the sunscreen is that it reddens my skin upon application. However, it is solely due to the high concentration of alcohol, so if you have skin prone to sensitivity, I’d suggest staying away from this one. 

I am confident that people who do sports outdoors will appreciate this sunscreen. It comes in a big 80g tube, suitable for the face and the body. Kao claim that this product is ‘super waterproof’ (★★ rating) and is also resistant to sweat; its lightweight texture makes it a breeze to reapply during a workout, as it doesn’t take long for the sunscreen to settle on the skin. The Essence doesn’t change its colour or texture when mixed with sweat. It doesn’t withstand friction as much as fluids, but if your workout doesn’t consist solely of rubbing against surfaces, then you should be fine. 

This sunscreen is affordable, effective, and does exactly what it’s supposed to-protect the skin from UV rays and keep it hydrated. It’s not perfect, I believe Kao will address the shininess in future reformulations. While I may not replace my beloved Skin Aqua with this one, it’s still a decent product. 

Ingredients: Water, ethanol, ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate, PG, diethylaminohydroxybenzoylhexyl benzoate, diisopropyl sebacate, isopropyl palmitate, ethylhexyl triazone, trehalose, mannitol, hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid, rose centifolia flower water, BG, polyglyceryl distearate -3 methylglucose, dilauramide glutamide lysine sodium, bisethylhexyloxyphenol methoxyphenyl triazine, (acrylates/alkyl acrylate (C10-30)) crosspolymer, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose stearoxy ether, caprylyl methicone, phenoxyethanol, water Sodium oxide, BHT, fragrance (Yesstyle)

The Super Water Essence EX is available from Yesstyle.com [aff].