Hada Labo Hyaluronic Acid Lotion Review: Why You Should Use it
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This minimal but very effective product has remained a stable in my skincare routine for quite some time. I feel like everyone and their mom uses this thing, but it’s still worth reviewing for those that perhaps have not heard of it yet. But seriously, you’re pretty late to the party. :p
Table of Contents
Hada Labo Hyaluronic Acid Lotion Ingredients and Benefits.
Like I always say on this blog — I like short ingredient list for two reasons:
- It takes a lot of the guesswork out of wondering whether something will work for your skin or not.
- It makes products easier to review. :p (haha)
Anyway, check out the short ingredient list.
Water, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Disodium Succinate, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid,Hydroxyethycellulose, Methylparaben, PPG-10 Methyl Glucose Ether, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Succinic Acid
**Ingredients of interest highlighted in bold.**
You may have noticed that this product contains no extracts, fatty alcohols, denatured alcohols, fragrances, colorants — pretty much anything unnecessary that could potentially irritate or breakout the skin. That’s why I bought it initially, and it ended up being one of the first products I tried in what seemed like thousands that actually worked for my ridiculous skin.
Its simplicity is why I recommend it to almost everyone in need of extra moisture in their skincare routines. In other words, its minimalist formula is bound to work with even the most acne-prone or reactive individuals. In fact, COSDNA shows this has no irritant triggers and only one potential pore clogging ingredient (“butylene glycol”), which rates at nefarious 1 out of 5 on the comedogenicity scale anyway.
To further the point of its high safety profile, it also comes with an appealing 5.0 pH, which is perfectly compatible with the skin’s natural pH (4.7 on average). In case you didn’t know, it is very important to keep the skin pH’s at a happy 4.5-5.5 medium to ensure it’s overall health and resiliency against fighting pathogens and preventing skin diseases like seborrheic dermatitis or acne (among many others).
If you don’t know what pH is, and why it’s so important feel free to check out my guide on pH and the acid mantle.
With all that said, the Hada Labo Hyaluronic Acid Lotion toner is considered a very effective humectant moisturizer. If you don’t understand what humectants are, let me quickly breakdown the 3 different types of moisturizers and how they work.
1. Emollients.
Think of oils and waxes; these would be considered emollients. They sink into the skin’s broken protein links, or more simply put, the dry crevices on the surface of skin to make it more pliable.
Emollients don’t actually do much in way of hydrating the skin. Rather, you can think of them as crutches the skin uses when it doesn’t have enough moisture on its own to be very flexible. It’s why the “tight” feeling of skin instantly disappears when you apply stuff like oil on it.
2. Occlusives.
Things like vaseline or aquaphor. Unlike emollients these don’t sink into the skin at all. Instead, they sit on top of it and form a film that prevents water from evaporating from the epidermis — this is known as transepidermal water loss (TEWL), or the process by which skin loses its water content. Keeping skin hydrated is really just about retaining its juicy water levels; the more water it loses through evaporation, the drier it becomes.
3. Humectants (what the Hado Labo HA toner is made of).
These also prevent transepidermal water loss (TEWL), but in a different way than occlusives. Rather than sealing the surface of skin to block water from escaping, humectants bind water to its surface which it draws from the environment and underlying dermis (deeper layers of skin).
And this is primarily what the Hada Labo Hyaluronic Acid Lotion does! It keeps the skin hydrated by slowing the rate at which water evaporates from the skin’s surface. It does this very well because it comes with 4 very powerful humectant moisturizers: Glycerin, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, and Sodium Hyaluronate.
All the variations of hyaluronic acid have different molecular weights which effect how easily they penetrate the skin. If that sounds scary or concerning, don’t worry — hyaluronic acid is natural part of human skin. In fact, it’s what primarily gives the skin volume and prevents it from sagging. This is one reason you’ll often hear that hyaluronic acid gives a “plumping effect” which reduces the appearance of shallow wrinkling and scarring.
Like collagen (the structural protein that keeps us from aging), hyaluronic acid production decreases with age. Fortunately for us, applying it topically gives similar effects and allows our skin to more effectively hold moisture.
And lastly, hyaluronic acid significantly speeds up and promotes the wound healing process. (1, 2, 3, 4) That’s actually why I use the Hada Labo Hyaluronic Acid Lotion right after dermarolling (a.k.a. stabbing your face with hundreds of little needles all at once). If you have no idea what dermarolling is, or why anyone would do such a crazy thing, feel free to check out my guide on microneedling.
Anyway, point being I use the Hada Labo Hyaluronic Acid Lotion to speed up the wound healing process that goes hand and hand with dermarolling the skin. I found that before when I would dermaroll recovery would take up to 4 to 5 days, but since introducing this product in my routine it cut the downtime to about 2 or 3 days.
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The Takeaway.
The Hada Labo Hyaluronic Acid Lotion is a very effective humectant moisturizer that comes with glycerin and three different types of hyaluronic acid, which will hydrate the skin immensely and promote the wound healing process.
Using Humectants in Winter or Dry Climates.
Some people think that hyaluronic acid only works optimally at humidity levels above 65%. This line of thinking doesn’t have much scientific merit because hyaluronic acid also works by drawing water from the deeper layer of skin (dermis), which can be thought of as an endless reservoir of water.
Unless, of course, you’re lost in a desert or stranded on an island (WILSON!) and have become severely dehydrated to the point of looking like a pruny raisin. But uh…. considering that you’re reading this review I highly doubt that’s the case. :p
However, if you’re still skeptical or paranoid about using humectants in a dry climate, you can always check the humidity levels of your location using google or the whether app on your phone.
Where I’m from the humidity constantly teeters below 70% during the day. In fact, as I’m writing this it’s only at 14%! However, during nighttime it almost always goes above that sexy 65%-70% threshold. Interestingly enough, I only ever use the Hada Labo Hyaluronic Acid Lotion at night anyway — not because I think using it during the day will dry out my skin, I just simply like going as barefaced as possible during the day.
Application, Feel, and Scent.
It’s just a bit thicker than water. It’s probably one of the most glide-y products I’ve ever used. It spreads across the skin very easily with minimal product. A bottle of this stuff will last you a very looooong time even if you use it generously.
For all intents and purposes, this dries completely matte. It can’t really be felt on the skin. If anything there is a just a slight stick to it, but that’s really only noticeable if you’re paying super close attention to it.
It’s suppose to be unscented, but it kind of smells like rubber floaties. You know, the ones you used to wear before knowing how to swim. Unless, you still can’t swim…. which there’s nothing wrong with! 🙂 Floaty power.
How to Use.
Just make sure to put it on after cleanser and chemical exfoliates (if you use them) but before other serums and creams. Here’s a sample routine to help you understand what I mean. I’m sure not all these steps will apply to most of you reading this, so just make sure to modify it for what products you’re using.
- Oil cleanser or OCM.
- pH balanced cleanser.
- low pH serums.
- Chemical exfoliants (BHAs then AHAs).
- Retinoids.
- Use the Hada Labo Hyaluronic Acid Lotion here.
- Essence
- Serum
- Ampoule
- Emulsion
- Moisturizer, cream.
- Face oil
- Sleeping pack, or sunscreen.
- Occlusives.
The Takeaway.
- Ingredients: 4/5
A very basic, pH-balanced, hydrating toner suitable for all skin types with glycerin and 3 different types of hyaluronic acid.
- Benefits: 5/5
Promotes wound healing, plumps up the skin, and hydrates very effectively via humectants.
- Application: 5/5
Feels like thick water and spreads very easily. Dries matte, and is unnoticeable on the skin.
- Packaging: 5/5
Comes in a nice bottle that dispenses the product in a very controlled manner.
- Value: 5/5
Very cheap considering this product will last you forever.
Overall: 4.8/5 — Highly recommend!
Check for discounts on Amazon!
Indeed, a very simple product but in my opinion very deserving of a high rating. I’ve used it for so long now, that I kind of take its hydrating effects for granted. :p Without it I would probably experience a lot more flaking when I accidentally go a little overboard with chemical exfoliation.
That does it for this review! Hope you’ve enjoyed the reading. 🙂
Cheers,
—f.c.
Know somebody that overdoes it with chemical exfoliants? Share this!
Is the light version of this also FA safe? Tried this version and I find it to be too heavy on my oil field face.
Hello there! Thanks so much for this review! I’m considering this lotion as well as the other you mentioned on your fungal acne post, in the gold bottle (there are so many and so many similar product names to these Asian brands!) hat has the additional HA weights to it. I’m curious though, about the ACV toner, do you recommend using AcV on the skin diluted, and how do you use it? I used to use it and double infuse first with dried flowers and herbs (the scent was so so good!) diluted with distilled water or George’s aloe juice. I think it might have messed with my skin barrie though? Please enlighten on ACV use please! I did actually use coconut vinegar instead. Better smell, more nutrient content supposedly.
I red a lot of you site in these days, I was searching for acne.org (I’m waiting the courier). I’m going to start the Regimen as soon as I can, but I’m very scared of the dryness that I can get, because my skin is very dehidrated in this period (I don’t know why). So, that’s the question: do you think that I should buy this toner? I think is a good option, but i don’t know if I should (they raccomend to use the steps in that way and not going with other stuff). And if the first question is yes, than should I apply that before or after the treatment? Okay i think that’s all, sorry for my english, i’m from Italy. Thank you for all of the tips and tricks in this site, hope you’ll reply 🙂
have you tried the premium hada labo lotion? I’m kind of skeptical on getting it since it’s much heavier and dense that the original. It’s much appreciated if you do a review on it! 😀
Hi,
Thank you for the information provided.
I have heard a lot about this product and I have purchased the Hada labo clear lotion (it comes in a blue container). However, my concern is that it comes with Methyl-paraben, as far as I researched this product could be harmful for the skin. What are your thoughts on this? I am 27 years old my skin is dry/sensitive, I get some breakouts and freckles.
Would appreciate your earliest reply.
Hi – do you know what the hyaluronic acid concentration is? Most dilutions sit at 1 or 2% and I have been looking but couldn’t find anything. Thanks!
Hi!
I really really LOVE your blog, it’s so informational and amazing. The way you describe the science behind products just makes sense to me and it has made me approach skin care in a totally different way 🙂
However, I have a questions regarding my regime. sooooo right now, I have been using retin-a .05% cream for about 3 months. I went through a NASTY purging phase basically I have NO active pimples. only some really really stubborn closed comedones (like 5) and I mainly want to treat my post acne PIE and PIH spots. I HAVE SOOOO MANY. it looks like i have a beard of splotchy red/darkness… its so awful and I want to get rid of them so bad. it’s looks as bad as my pimples because the redness/hyperpigmentation is so prominent D: So I’ve been trying to find VARIOUS ways to help speed up the process of getting rid of these spots. T.T
So I recently just added azeliac acid and vitamin c (SAP, mad-hippie) serum. However, now, I don’t know where to incorporate hada labo D:
So far, I’ve been using tret cream every other day. The days that I use tret my PM routine goes:
– hemish (oil cleanse)
– cosrx face wash good morning
– AVC toner diluted (pH 4-5)
**wait 20 min**
– mad hippie
***wait 30 min to dry***
– tret .05% cream
**wait 1 hour**
– hadalabo
– mizon all in one snail repair cream
– melezma (azeliac acid) <–where should I put this??? T.T
– dml lotion
– rosehip oil <– is it okay to put this here??
– vaseline
what do you think?? do you think that I should change my order around? I need your help skincare masterrr, please enlighten me~!! T.T
hi i want to ask you, is my pm routine is in the right order? or should i change it? i got confused with the order.
-micellar water
-face shop rice water bright cleanser
-apple cider vinegar+pink himalayan salt diy toner
*wait 5 min until completely dry*
-benton snail bee high content essence
-hada labo hyaluronic acid lotion
-cosrx bha power liquid
should i change it? and may i know how to get rid of PIH? its been a year since i am fighting with PIH but the result is not really significant 🙁
PLEASE REPLY is there any other good acne toner for someone with teen acne and PIE that is more commercially available like at target or Walgreens , any suggestions pleas
Is the Gokuyjun premium version even better than this version?
I laughed so hard when I read: “you’re lost in a desert or stranded on an island (WILSON!).” Cracked me up! It made me think of my first job at Big5 Sporting Goods and we actually sold a Wilson volleyball that had the stain of the handprint on it. How awesome is that!
I was also wondering, is there a way to get notified when you or someone else replies to my comment on your blog? I don’t get any kind of email notification…
Thank you!
how to store it
Hello! I just received the product and im wondering when to use in my regimen. I cleanse, exfoliating toner, aha night creme and use serum. When do i incorporate this? Thanks in advance! 🙂
LOOOOOOOVE THIS PRODUCT! By far one of the best one I’ve used. I use it daily, do you consider is okay to do it like that?
Do you believe this product is appropriate for ‘older’ skin (ok, over 55, anyway)?
Thanks in advance!
Hi, my skin condition was redness, oily and pores but doesn’t have so much acne. Today I just bought a Hadalabo Deep Clean & Pore Refining Face Wash. May I know this product is suitable for my skin type? And I want to know after washing face should I apply Hada Labo Hyaluronic Acid Lotion? And this consider a toner? Also, after apply Hada Labo Hyaluronic Acid Lotion, what kinds of moisturizer should I use in order to rectify my skin problem?
got to your blog from reddit… have been reading couple of things and it’s so informative and well written…i have weird elephant skin and i feel like i need a tub of product to jump into and moisturize over all… what hyaluronic cream would you recommend for the whole body? (and cheap) also i mainly read the derma roller article and wanted to start that.. i have extreme deep wrinkles and pigmentation on my feet , neck and knees.. i was wondering if i can use roller on these parts and if that would help?
Hi, I am interested in incorporating this into my routine. Would this be an appropriate order to apply my products in?
AM:
La Roche Posay Toleriane Hydrating Cleanser
Melano CC Vitamin C Serum
Hada Labo Lotion Mask
EltaMD AM Therapy + Squalane
EltaMD Tinted UV Clear SPF 46
PM
Banila Co. Clean It Zero
La Roche Posay Toleriane Hydrating Cleanser
The Ordinary Peeling Solution (once every 10-14 – skip all other actives when using)
Hada Labo Lotion Mask
EltaMD AM Therapy + Squalane Oil
Retinol (I put retinol on last as my skin cannot tolerate it without a buffer. I am unsure if this will interfere with the Hada Labo)
(Link to what a lotion mask is (just in case anyone is curious/doesn’t know about it): https://kscarequest.wordpress.com/2014/11/15/the-lotion-mask-the-most-effective-way-to-use-your-toner/)
hi , does this product okay with dry skin people and does this product helps to reduce dry pathces on skin??
Hey, I was looking for the right hydrating products days ago and came across to your review. May I know if this hydration lotion can be used as both toner and moisturizer?(you know there are some days after work where simple skincare routine is suffice!) But have been seeing people are using as a toner often so not sure if it has the moisturizing effect in it 🙂