COOLA Refreshing Water Plumping Gel SPF 30 Review

COOLA Refreshing Water Plumping Gel SPF 30
5.1
/ 10
Moisturizing
10.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
0.2 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
Rich
in Antioxidants
Rich Skin Soothing icon
in Skin Soothers
30
SPF icon
SPF
Review

Does COOLA Refreshing Water Plumping Gel SPF 30 Work?

 
According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what COOLA Refreshing Water Plumping Gel SPF 30 has to offer:
 
  • Strong humectant moisturizing. This lightweight, humectant-rich product, ideal for oily skin, has a moisturizing rating of 5.1 out of 10.
  • Soothing: COOLA Refreshing Water Plumping Gel SPF 30 contains a high concentration of soothing ingredients, which may help to reduce irritation and calm the skin.
  • Antioxidant protection.
  • Moderate to high sun protection for daily outdoor activities

Key Benefits of COOLA Refreshing Water Plumping Gel SPF 30

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using COOLA Refreshing Water Plumping Gel SPF 30:
 

Lightweight Humectant Moisturizer Ideal for Oily Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, COOLA Refreshing Water Plumping Gel SPF 30 is quite moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 5.1 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Significantly more humectant. It has a low occlusivity of 0.2 out of 10 and a maximum humectancy of 10 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice (est. ≈60.0%).

This humectant-rich product, when used alone as a moisturizer, is ideal for oily skin, offering significant hydration in a lightweight, fast-absorbing formula with a minimal amount of occlusive ingredients.

It’s also a great choice for people with normal skin who prefer lightweight moisturizers.

A Humectant Boost for Any Skincare Routine

But it’s not limited to oily skin - such a humectant boost will also positively contribute to the moisturizing efficacy of any skincare routine when used as a step before applying the main moisturizer. This type of formulation is typically used in serums, where a light, fast-absorbing texture is key.

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the moisturizing rating calculation.

Rich in Skin-Protecting Antioxidants

We estimate that COOLA Refreshing Water Plumping Gel SPF 30 is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice (est. ≈60.0%).

A key benefit of antioxidants is their ability to reduce oxidative stress caused by free radicals and therefore prevent accelerated skin aging. Studies also show that antioxidants can protect against environmental damage such as UV radiation and pollution, and help reduce inflammation and skin redness.

Skin Soothing and Calming Potential

Based on the ingredient list analysis, COOLA Refreshing Water Plumping Gel SPF 30 is rich (> 5%) in soothing ingredients, particularly Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice (est. ≈60.0%).

When applied to the skin, compounds of soothing ingredients, such as triglycerides, phospholipids, fatty acids, phenolic compounds, and antioxidants, work together to soothe the skin through various mechanisms: reducing inflammation, promoting wound healing, repairing the skin barrier, and providing antimicrobial and antioxidant activities.

Moderate to High Sun Protection for Daily Outdoor Activities

With an SPF of 30, COOLA Refreshing Water Plumping Gel SPF 30 provides moderate to high sun protection, making it suitable for daily use during moderate sun exposure, such as commuting or light outdoor activities.

This level of SPF offers excellent defense against UVB rays, blocking up to 97% of harmful radiation. When labeled as broad-spectrum, these products also protect against UVA rays, which are responsible for skin aging and hyperpigmentation.

For optimal protection, choose products labeled broad-spectrum to ensure defense against both UVA rays, which contribute to skin aging and pigmentation, and UVB rays that cause sunburn.

This level of SPF works well for skin types mildly prone to sunburn. It is particularly suitable for low-to-moderate UV index environments and non-tropical climates. However, it is not recommended for prolonged outdoor exposure or intense UV conditions. Reapplication every two hours is essential to maintain effectiveness.

Please note that this is not a complete list of benefits. We are in the process of enhancing our AI model to incorporate anti-pigmentation, exfoliation and anti-acne ratings.

Things to Be Aware Of: COOLA Refreshing Water Plumping Gel SPF 30

 
CreamScan AI identified a few things to consider before adding COOLA Refreshing Water Plumping Gel SPF 30 to your skincare routine:
 

Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy

If one of your main reasons for choosing COOLA Refreshing Water Plumping Gel SPF 30 is its potential anti-aging effects, please note that, according to CreamScan analysis, it currently has a zero anti-wrinkle rating.

It contains Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, an ingredient often marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles. However, the studies supporting the anti-wrinkle claims of Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract provide insufficient evidence of its efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards.

While this does not categorically exclude the possibility that Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract may reduce wrinkles, its efficacy is not supported by convincing, vehicle-controlled, double-blind clinical studies - at least none that were accessible to the CreamScan team at the time of publication.

Therefore, this ingredient does not generate the anti-wrinkle rating.

Moisturizers, when used regularly, are proven to prevent wrinkle formation and even reduce existing wrinkles. Therefore, this product, like any other moisturizer, can deliver some anti-wrinkle effects through its moisturizing action.

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the anti-wrinkle rating calculation.

Pros & Cons of COOLA Refreshing Water Plumping Gel SPF 30

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of COOLA Refreshing Water Plumping Gel SPF 30 to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

Pros:

  • When used alone: Provides humectant-rich moisturizing ideal for oily skin
  • As part of a routine: A humectant moisturizing boost, beneficial for any skin type
  • Lightweight texture
  • Rich in antioxidants that combat oxidative stress associated with accelerated skin aging and defend against environmental damage
  • Potentially soothing, as it contains a high concentration of soothing ingredients, specifically Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
  • Provides moderate to high sun protection, suitable for light outdoor activities in non-tropical climates

Cons: 

  • Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
60
7
6
5
3
2
1.5
1.3
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Est. %
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
Function:
Origin:
Octocrylene
Function:
Origin:
Homosalate
Function:
Origin:
Octisalate
Function:
Origin:
Avobenzone
Function:
Origin:
Alcohol Denat.
Function:
Origin:
Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer
Function:
Origin:
Butyloctyl Salicylate
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexyl Methoxycrylene
Function:
Origin:
Hyaluronic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Fruit Water
Function:
Origin:
Alaria Esculenta Extract
Function:
Origin:
Aloe Barbadensis Flower Extract
Function:
Origin:
Jasminum Sambac (Jasmine) Leaf Cell Extract
Function:
Origin:
Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract
Function:
Origin:
Corallina Officinalis Extract
Function:
Origin:
Coccinia Indica Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Solanum Melongena (Eggplant) Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Extract
Function:
Origin:
Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Ocimum Basilicum (Basil) Flower/Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Schinus Molle Extract
Function:
Origin:
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Function:
Origin:
Water
Function:
Origin:
Ethyl Ferulate
Function:
Origin:
Propanediol
Function:
Origin:
Butylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
1,2-Hexanediol
Function:
Origin:
Caprylyl Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Triethyl Citrate
Function:
Origin:
Tapioca Starch
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Gamma-Nonalactone
Function:
Origin:
Tropolone
Function:
Origin:
Juniperus Mexicana Oil
Function:
Origin:
Gamma-Octalactone
Function:
Origin:
Benzyl Acetate
Function:
Origin:
Phenethyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Mimosa Tenuiflora Bark Extract
Function:
Origin:
Vanillin
Function:
Origin:
Heliotropine
Function:
Origin:
Anisaldehyde
Function:
Origin:
Delta-Decalactone
Function:
Origin:
Methylbenzyl Acetate
Function:
Origin:
Ethyl Butyrate
Function:
Origin:
Methyl Anthranilate
Function:
Origin:
Methyl Benzoate
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
61.5
60
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
5.1
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 61.5 10
10.0
60
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 0.3 20
0.2
0.3
Moisturizing rating
5.1
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
60
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 61.5 10
10
All humectants
61.5
60
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
0.3
All occlusives 0.3 20
0.2
All occlusives
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
0
Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Anti-wrinkle rating
0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
60
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 64.5 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
64.5
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
60
Hyaluronic Acid
0.3
Aloe Barbadensis Flower Extract
0.3
Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract
0.3
Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract
0.3
Corallina Officinalis Extract
0.3
Coccinia Indica Fruit Extract
0.3
Solanum Melongena (Eggplant) Fruit Extract
0.3
Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Extract
0.3
Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract
0.3
Ocimum Basilicum (Basil) Flower/Leaf Extract
0.3
Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract
0.3
Ethyl Ferulate
0.3
Tropolone
0.3
Mimosa Tenuiflora Bark Extract
0.3
Vanillin
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
60
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 61.5 5 Rich in soothing
All soothing
61.5
60
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
Est. %60
Function
Origin
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf JuiceA gelatinous juice from Aloe vera leaves that acts as a powerful humectant, emollient, and antioxidant. It contains enzymes, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals that soothe irritated skin and have wound-healing and anti-inflammatory properties.
Octocrylene
Est. %7
Function
Origin
OctocryleneA synthetic compound that protects skin against harmful ultraviolet light.
Homosalate
Est. %6
Function
Origin
HomosalateA synthetic chemical UV filter that protects against harmful UVB radiation.
Octisalate
Est. %5
Function
Origin
OctisalateA UVB sunscreen also known as ethylhexyl salicylate. It is normally paired with UVA sunscreens to provide broad-spectrum protection. Octisalate also protects other ingredients, like colorants and antioxidants, from deterioration due to exposure to UV light.
Avobenzone
Est. %3
Function
Origin
AvobenzoneA popular sunscreen that protects against UVA rays, which cause premature aging and skin cancer. Avobenzone degrades after about 30 minutes of sun exposure and becomes ineffective. It is therefore often paired with UV-filter stabilizers such as octocrylene.
Alcohol Denat.
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Alcohol Denat.

Denatured alcohol is ethanol that contains additives that make it unsafe to consume. It is mainly used as a solvent and an antimicrobial agent. A major drawback to alcohol denat. is that it dries out the skin.

Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP CopolymerA polymeric ingredient that creates lightweight and refreshing gel textures. It also works as a viscosity controlling agent.
Butyloctyl Salicylate
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
Butyloctyl SalicylateA synthetic emollient and solvent. It is primarily used as a carrier oil to disperse minerals in, including pigments and sunscreen minerals. It can also absorb UV light, thus boosting the SPF of sunscreen products.
Ethylhexyl Methoxycrylene
Est. %1
Function
Origin
Ethylhexyl Methoxycrylene
Hyaluronic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hyaluronic Acid

A potent, skin-identical humectant moisturizing ingredient that is able to bind water 1000 times its own weight. The anti-aging benefits of hyaluronic acid are due to its ability to stimulate the synthesis of collagen in the skin.

Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Fruit Water
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Fruit Water
Alaria Esculenta Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Alaria Esculenta ExtractDerived from badderlocks, an edible seaweed, this extract is rich in film-forming alginates. It can be used as a formula helper.
Aloe Barbadensis Flower Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Aloe Barbadensis Flower ExtractAn extract obtained the flowers of Aloe vera – which are a rich source of antioxidant flavonoids (mainly apigenin). It also contains a bit of the emollient mucilage.
Jasminum Sambac (Jasmine) Leaf Cell Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Jasminum Sambac (Jasmine) Leaf Cell Extract
Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Melia Azadirachta Leaf ExtractAn antimicrobial and antioxidant extract derived from Neem leaves – an Indian traditional medicine. Neem leaves have been found to possess antibacterial and antifungal activity. It is also a prospective anti-wrinkle ingredient.
Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Melia Azadirachta Flower ExtractAn antioxidant extract derived from the flowers of the Indian lilac, also known as Neem. It is often used in traditional medicine in India. The Neem flower extracts contain limonoids, which are currently under research for their anti-pigment activity.
Corallina Officinalis Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Corallina Officinalis ExtractAn extract from red marine alga, Corallina officinalis is used in skincare for its antioxidant properties. It also contains an immense amount of calcium and special, sulfur-containing polysaccharides.
Coccinia Indica Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Coccinia Indica Fruit ExtractAn extract derived from the cucumber-like fruits of ivy gourd. It contains a large amount of soothing mucilage as well as some antioxidant carotenoids. It has also been shown that the extract may have some anti-allergy properties.
Solanum Melongena (Eggplant) Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Solanum Melongena (Eggplant) Fruit ExtractAn under-researched extract obtained from the eggplant fruit. Eggplant contains plant pigments called anthocyanins and phenolic compounds, such as chlorogenic acid, which are excellent antioxidants.
Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed ExtractA cocoa beans extract that contains caffeine and astringent and antioxidant flavonols and tannins.
Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root ExtractAn extract derived from the thick roots of curcuma (turmeric), a famous yellow spice and a major ingredient in curry powder. It is used in skincare for its proven antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Ocimum Basilicum (Basil) Flower/Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ocimum Basilicum (Basil) Flower/Leaf ExtractA fragrant extract derived from the flowering basil plant that contains essential oil and antioxidants such as terpenes, flavonoids, and vitamin K.
Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ocimum Sanctum Leaf ExtractAn extract derived from the leaves of Holy Basil, also known as Tulsi, a traditional herb used in Ayurveda medicine. It contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory rosmarinic acid, galic acid, flavonoids, and a sweet-scented essential oil.
Schinus Molle Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Schinus Molle Extract
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Caprylic/Capric TriglycerideA natural occlusive moisturizing and emollient ingredient, it is a blend of glycerin and two fatty acids, caprylic and capric acid. It creates an oil-based protective layer on the skin, thereby preventing water loss.
Water
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
WaterThe most used ingredient in skincare. Its concentration defines the product texture: rich creams may have about 50% of water while a light jelly about 90%. Water doesn’t moisturize the skin by itself and is used in skincare as a solvent for other ingredients.
Ethyl Ferulate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ethyl Ferulate
Propanediol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PropanediolAn excellent solvent capable of mixing water with normally water-insoluble ingredients. It also functions as a humectant due to its water-loving alcohol groups. Propanediol can control the viscosity of a product by reducing its thickness.
Butylene Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Butylene Glycol

A clear, colorless liquid humectant that draws moisture to the skin. The humectancy of butylene glycol, owed to its two hydroxyl groups, is quite considerable, although not as powerful as glycerin, which contains three hydroxyl groups.

1,2-Hexanediol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
1,2-HexanediolA multi-functional formula helper. It is a well-studied preservtive against bacteria and can help pigments and fragrances disperse evenly in a formula.
Caprylyl Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Caprylyl GlycolAn emollient that improves product spreadability and offers a silky feel on the skin. It also acts as a preservative booster that improves the efficacy of other preservatives. According to the manufacturer, it is also a humectant moisturizer.
Triethyl Citrate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Triethyl Citrate
Tapioca Starch
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tapioca StarchTapioca starch is used to absorb excess oil and provide slip for dry powder formulations.
Glycerin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glycerin

The most popular moisturizing ingredient in the world. It is a powerful humectant – cheap yet very effective.

Gamma-Nonalactone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Gamma-Nonalactone
Tropolone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
TropoloneA naturally occurring ingredient with unusual molecular structure that fights free radicals.
Juniperus Mexicana Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Juniperus Mexicana OilA fragrant essential oil derived from the wood, twigs, and leaves of the Texas Cedarwood. It contains cedrol and thujopsene - compounds responsible for its deep, rich, woody aroma.
Gamma-Octalactone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Gamma-Octalactone
Benzyl Acetate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Benzyl Acetate
Phenethyl Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Phenethyl AlcoholA multifunctional ingredient that primarily serves as a preservative. Derived from the Chinese cinnamon tree, it provides broad-spectrum protection for skincare products through its antimicrobial efficacy.
Mimosa Tenuiflora Bark Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Mimosa Tenuiflora Bark ExtractMimosa tenuiflora is a tropical tree that is native to Central and South America, from Mexico to Brazil. The tree bark is traditionally used to treat burns, cuts, and other skin injuries. Its benefits might be due to its content of terpenoids, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities.
Vanillin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
VanillinThe main component of vanilla bean extract. It has a sweet fragrance and flavor.
Heliotropine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Heliotropine
Anisaldehyde
Est. %0.1
Function
Origin
Anisaldehyde
Delta-Decalactone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Delta-Decalactone
Methylbenzyl Acetate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Methylbenzyl Acetate
Ethyl Butyrate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ethyl Butyrate
Methyl Anthranilate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Methyl Anthranilate
Methyl Benzoate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Methyl Benzoate