Hada Labo Shirojyun Premium Whitening Lotion Review for the Philippines: Pros and Cons After Testing

Its moisturizing performance was impressive in our tests. After applying it to the forearms of 11 testers, skin hydration increased by an average of 27.76 points four hours after application compared to before use. This is slightly higher than the overall average of 27.51 among competitor products we compared, suggesting reliable hydration.

It also performed well in moisture retention. Four and a half hours after application, skin retained 99.98% of the moisture measured at the 30-minute mark. Some competing emulsions retained only around 91% over the same period, but this formula showed almost no drop in hydration.

Because it scored highly in both moisture increase and retention, it can effectively hydrate the skin and help keep it moisturized for hours. However, those with extremely dry skin may still benefit from using a deeply hydrating toner before applying this emulsion.

Based on our team’s ingredient analysis, this formula received high marks for being suitable for sensitive skin. It contains dipotassium glycyrrhizate, an anti-inflammatory active ingredient that helps prevent skin irritation. No common irritants were identified, making it easy to use across different skin types.

It also includes skin-conditioning ingredients such as hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid and magnesium ascorbyl phosphate (a vitamin C derivative). While some emulsions we tested lacked soothing or skin-supporting components, this formula combines both hydration and skin-conditioning benefits to help maintain smooth, healthy-looking skin.

In addition, it contains tranexamic acid, a brightening ingredient, and sodium hyaluronate for added moisture. This makes it suitable for those who want to improve dull-looking skin while supporting overall skin health.

The texture is light and soft, earning high ratings for how it feels on the skin. In testing with 10 users, all said it spreads easily. Many noted that it “absorbs well” and is easy to apply evenly across the face.

Compared with some competitors' products that feel lighter or more watery, this one delivers a more noticeable moisturizing finish. Testers described it as “hydrating without feeling greasy” and said their skin felt “soft and bouncy” after application.

If you prefer a moisturizer that leaves your skin feeling comfortably hydrated without heavy residue, this formula delivers a balanced finish.

Tester Comments on Texture:

1. “It felt soft and absorbed well. It spreads very easily.”

2. “The texture is soft and easy to apply evenly. A small amount goes a long way.”

3. “My skin felt hydrated and bouncy.”

4. “It absorbed quickly without leaving a slimy layer.”

5. “It provided good moisture, though I noticed slight stickiness.”

It also rated highly for being a non-sticky moisturizer. In our test, the product was applied to artificial skin, and 20 beads were pressed onto the surface five minutes later. On average, only 2.50 beads stuck to the skin. By comparison, some emulsions had more than 10 beads stick under the same conditions. These results help address online claims that it feels overly sticky.

Because it leaves minimal residue and does not feel greasy, it works well for daytime use, including before makeup, and can also be used comfortably as part of a nighttime skincare routine.

As stated on the official site, this emulsion is fragrance-free, and in testing, almost no scent was detected. Most of the 10 testers described it as “almost odorless.” Many said it would be “easy to use daily” and “doesn’t clash with other skincare products.”

Compared with other products that feature floral or herbal fragrances, this product focuses on being completely fragrance-free. It may not suit those who enjoy scented skincare, but it’s a good option for people sensitive to strong smells or those looking for a fragrance-free moisturizer that won’t interfere with perfumes or other products.

• “Fragrance-free. I prefer scented products, but this is easy to use daily.”

• “The scent isn’t strong and doesn’t clash with my other skincare.”

• “It barely has a smell, which felt a bit lacking for me.”

• “I didn’t notice any scent, and there was no strong ingredient smell.”

The packaging is practical and easy to handle. With an outer circumference of 14.8 cm, the cylindrical bottle isn’t too bulky and fits comfortably in the palm. It also weighs 148.2 g, making it lightweight and easy to hold during use.

Another plus is the simple design. There’s no inner lid, and the cap opens with one touch, so you can dispense the product quickly. Compared with some bottles that require twisting the cap open, this one allows for faster and more convenient application.