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Struggling to pick the right Kose sunscreen for your skin?
For skincare enthusiasts, Japan is synonymous with a plethora of super-nourishing products. I've had my eye on Kose sunscreen for a while now because sunscreen is an absolute essential. Having tried numerous types, I believe I can offer an objective evaluation for all you ladies out there.
In general, a good sunscreen for me is one that absorbs easily, doesn't leave the skin feeling heavy or uncomfortable. Speaking of Kose sunscreen, there are two standout lines, both of which provide me with utmost comfort. Let's introduce them collectively in the review below.
The Appearance of Kose Sunscreen
These cream and milk formats bear quite a resemblance, you know. Both come in green bodies with white caps. I absolutely adore this color scheme as it exudes sophistication. Not only compared to other brands but also within Kose's own range, it stands out. The cream comes in a screw cap while the milk is in a jar and the gel in a tube. Just a glance and you can tell them apart, with similar brand logos and designs.
As for the ingredients, these little ones are all about herbal extracts, including white chrysanthemum, Melotria root, Sasa Veichii leaves... providing both brightening and excellent moisturizing properties.
Reviewing Kose Milk Sunscreen
Just by looking at the packaging, you can tell that the sun protection factor is high. This one is the most domestic version. The Milk line is suitable for combination to oily skin. It's waterproof and contains hydrating ingredients like jojoba oil, providing great moisture. I often use this one when I'm out and about, exposed to a lot of sunlight. This type has a thin texture, making it extremely easy to apply.
It works well, but honestly, I still haven't gotten used to its strong alcohol scent. It seems like the more I use it, the more prominent the alcohol smell becomes. I don't see any harmful ingredients in it, but I still can't get accustomed to it. Overall, this one absorbs quickly, doesn't feel greasy, and leaves a comfortable dry finish. The packaging is standard Japanese, providing protection against both UVA and UVB. The downside is that it contains alcohol, which I'm not a fan of.
Regarding Kose Gel Sunscreen
This one suits those with dry to combination skin. It comes in a tube, and the gel is still quite fluid, not drying quickly like the Milk variant. Instead, it leaves a remarkably soft and smooth moisturizing layer on the skin. Those with dry skin might find this beneficial. The gel consistency ensures excellent moisturizing capabilities.
Another plus point is that this Kose sunscreen is gel-based, so it doesn't have the strong alcohol scent like the milk version. If you're sensitive to alcohol smells, you can confidently use this type. The texture is thin and smooth, providing a quick-absorbing sensation.
Comparing and Deciding Which Kose Sunscreen to Use
I find both types to be fine; the gel variant is suitable for daily use, while the milk type is ideal for outdoor activities. The liquid milk absorbs faster, but it does have an alcohol scent. On the other hand, the gel variant has a light, pleasant scent. Milk is recommended for oily skin, while gel is suitable for those with dry skin.
In terms of price, the gel type is significantly cheaper, around 400k VND for a tube. Whereas the milk type is double the price, costing around 800k VND for a bottle. Milk tends to be more quickly consumed, but it offers excellent sun protection and water resistance, so those who often travel may consider investing in it.
