KAHI Aqua Balm SPF 50 PA++++ Review

KAHI Aqua Balm SPF 50 PA++++
6.0
/ 10
Moisturizing
2.1 Humectancy icon Humectancy
10.0 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
50
SPF icon
SPF
Review

Does KAHI Aqua Balm SPF 50 PA++++ Work?

 
According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what KAHI Aqua Balm SPF 50 PA++++ has to offer:
 
  • Significant moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 6.0 out of 10.
  • Very high sun protection for prolonged sun exposure, such as spending the day at the beach, hiking, or outdoor sports.

Key Benefits of KAHI Aqua Balm SPF 50 PA++++

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using KAHI Aqua Balm SPF 50 PA++++:
 

Very Rich Moisturizer with the Right Occlusivity for Very Dry Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, KAHI Aqua Balm SPF 50 PA++++ is highly moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 6.0 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Significantly more occlusive. It has a low Humectancy of 2.1 out of 10 and a maximum Occlusivity of 10 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Butylene Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate (est. ≈30.0%) and Dimethicone (est. ≈24.7%).

This type of product, when used as a standalone moisturizer, can deliver an exceptional level of occlusive hydration that is adequate for dry to very skin. The occlusive profile of KAHI Aqua Balm SPF 50 PA++++ suggests a rich, thick texture, making it perfectly suited for dry skin.

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

Very High Sun Protection for Prolonged Sun Exposure, All Skin Types, and High-risk Conditions

With an SPF of 50, KAHI Aqua Balm SPF 50 PA++++ provides very high sun protection, suitable for intense sun exposure in tropical climates, beach vacations, or high-altitude environments.

This level of SPF blocks 98% or more of UVB rays, offering the highest level of defense against sunburn. Broad-spectrum formulations also provide strong protection against UVA rays, which are responsible for skin aging, pigmentation, and DNA damage.

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 is ideal for all skin types, particularly fair, sensitive, or post-treatment skin (e.g., after laser or chemical procedures). It is also highly recommended for individuals at greater risk of skin cancer.

For extended outdoor activities or water exposure, choose a water-resistant formula and reapply every two hours for maximum 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: KAHI Aqua Balm SPF 50 PA++++

 
CreamScan AI identified a few things to consider before adding KAHI Aqua Balm SPF 50 PA++++ to your skincare routine:
 

Best for Very Dry Skin - May Be Too Thick for Other Skin Types

With exceptional occlusivity, this product is optimal for moisturizing dry and very dry skin but may be too thick for other skin types, including normal, and especially combination and oily skin.

If you have oily, combination, or normal skin and are considering purchasing this product for the first time, it might be a good idea to try a sample before buying.

Needs to Be Paired with Extra Humectants for Optimal Moisturizing Efficacy

An ideal moisturizer for any skin type should balance the right level of occlusivity (depending on skin type) with a significant amount of humectants, while KAHI Aqua Balm SPF 50 PA++++ contains a relatively low level of humectants.

People with dry skin would definitely benefit from adding more humectants to their moisturizing routine beyond what this product offers. If this is your only moisturizer, it may be worth including a humectant-rich product, such as a serum, in your skincare routine.

Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy

If one of your main reasons for choosing KAHI Aqua Balm SPF 50 PA++++ is its potential anti-aging effects, please note that, according to CreamScan analysis, it currently has a zero anti-wrinkle rating.

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

While this does not categorically exclude the possibility that Adenosine 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 KAHI Aqua Balm SPF 50 PA++++

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of KAHI Aqua Balm SPF 50 PA++++ to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

Pros:

  • Provides the right level of occlusivity to moisturize dry to very dry skin
  • Provides very high sun protection, ideal for intense sun exposure in tropical climates, high-altitude environments, and beach vacations, suitable for all skin types

Cons: 

  • May feel too rich and thick on skin types other than dry
  • Ideally needs to be paired with extra humectants for optimal moisturizing efficacy
  • Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
30
24.7
12.3
6.7
4.5
3.4
2.2
1.7
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
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Est. %
Butylene Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Silica
Function:
Origin:
Octinoxate
Function:
Origin:
Polyethylene
Function:
Origin:
Butyloctyl Salicylate
Function:
Origin:
Vinyl Dimethicone/Methicone Silsesquioxane Crosspolymer
Function:
Origin:
Diphenylsiloxy Phenyl Trimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Dicaprylyl Carbonate
Function:
Origin:
Octisalate
Function:
Origin:
Cetyl Ethylhexanoate
Function:
Origin:
Triethylhexanoin
Function:
Origin:
Paraffin
Function:
Origin:
Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate
Function:
Origin:
Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine
Function:
Origin:
Octocrylene
Function:
Origin:
Sorbitan Isostearate
Function:
Origin:
Microcrystalline Wax
Function:
Origin:
Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate
Function:
Origin:
Caesalpinia Spinosa Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Bacillus Ferment
Function:
Origin:
Candida/Garcinia Cambogia Ferment
Function:
Origin:
Kappaphycus Alvarezii Extract
Function:
Origin:
Oryza Sativa (Rice) Germ Oil
Function:
Origin:
Schisandra Chinensis Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Hydrolyzed Collagen
Function:
Origin:
Lithospermum Erythrorhizon Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Phytosteryl/Isostearyl/Cetyl/Stearyl/Behenyl Dimer Dilinoleate
Function:
Origin:
Hydrogenated Polyisobutene
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexyl Hydroxystearate
Function:
Origin:
Disteardimonium Hectorite
Function:
Origin:
Propylene Carbonate
Function:
Origin:
Caprylyl Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Glyceryl Caprylate
Function:
Origin:
Adenosine
Function:
Origin:
Aluminum Hydroxide
Function:
Origin:
Triethoxycaprylylsilane
Function:
Origin:
Tocopherol
Function:
Origin:
Water
Function:
Origin:
Butylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
1,2-Hexanediol
Function:
Origin:
Soluble Proteoglycan
Function:
Origin:
Sodium DNA
Function:
Origin:
Fragrance
Function:
Origin:
Butylparaben
Function:
Origin:
Hexyl Cinnamal
Function:
Origin:
Benzyl Salicylate
Function:
Origin:
Hydroxycitronellal
Function:
Origin:
Citronellol
Function:
Origin:
Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone
Function:
Origin:
Linalool
Function:
Origin:
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)
Function:
Origin:
Gardenia Florida Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
2.1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
56.5
30.0
24.7
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
6.0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 2.1 10
2.1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 56.5 20
10.0
30.0
24.7
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
6.0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 2.1 10
2.1
All humectants
2.1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
30
24.7
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 56.5 20
10.0
All occlusives
56.5
30.0
24.7
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
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
Adenosine
-
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
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 1.5 3 No
All antioxidants
1.5
Caesalpinia Spinosa Fruit Extract
0.3
Kappaphycus Alvarezii Extract
0.3
Schisandra Chinensis Fruit Extract
0.3
Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract
0.3
Tocopherol
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 0.9 5 No
All soothing
0.9
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Butylene Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate
Est. %30
Function
Origin
Butylene Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate

Description is coming soon

Dimethicone
Est. %24.7
Function
Origin
DimethiconeThe most common silicone in skincare. It forms a silky, smooth film on the skin’s surface and can help to prevent water loss. It also aids in wound healing and can treat and soften scars. Dimethicone is considered to be very safe for use.
Silica
Est. %12.3
Function
Origin
SilicaA widely used cosmetic ingredient with the same chemical composition as the sand found on beaches. A common function of silica is its ability to control viscosity. In certain chemical forms, it can effectively thicken cream-style products.
Octinoxate
Est. %6.7
Function
Origin
OctinoxateA chemical sunscreen also known as ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate. It protects against UVB, which causes the skin to burn and tan and can lead to certain types of skin cancers. For broad-spectrum protection claims, octinoxate should be paired with a UVA sunscreen.
Polyethylene
Est. %4.5
Function
Origin
PolyethyleneCommonly used in dense plastic packaging, its primary function in skincare is as a film-forming agent, which protects the product from being easily rinsed away by water or sweat. It also controls viscosity by increasing the thickness of oily products.
Butyloctyl Salicylate
Est. %3.4
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.
Vinyl Dimethicone/Methicone Silsesquioxane Crosspolymer
Est. %2.2
Function
Origin
Vinyl Dimethicone/Methicone Silsesquioxane Crosspolymer
Diphenylsiloxy Phenyl Trimethicone
Est. %1.7
Function
Origin
Diphenylsiloxy Phenyl Trimethicone
Dicaprylyl Carbonate
Est. %1
Function
Origin
Dicaprylyl CarbonateA very fast-spreading emollient that gives a product an incredibly lightweight feel. Dicaprylyl carbonate works well as a solvent for suspending insoluble solids such as mineral sunscreens or iron oxide pigments.
Octisalate
Est. %0.3
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.
Cetyl Ethylhexanoate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Cetyl EthylhexanoateA clear, pale yellow liquid, that functions as an emollient and a solvent, meaning that it is useful for dissolving oil-soluble ingredients.
Triethylhexanoin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
TriethylhexanoinAn occlusive and emollient ester of glycerin and a fatty acid. It is easily spreadable and does not leave a sticky after-feel.
Paraffin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
ParaffinParaffin is a petroleum-based, very oily, emollient and extremely occlusive mixture of purified hydrocarbons, also known as mineral oil. Depending on the molecule's size, it can either be a liquid, a solid, or anything in between. To learn more about liquid paraffin and its effects on our skin, read here.
Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate
Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl TriazineA synthetic "chemical" sunscreen ingredient that protects against UV damage and offers better stability and safety compared to some other traditional organic suncreen ingredients.
Octocrylene
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
OctocryleneA synthetic compound that protects skin against harmful ultraviolet light.
Sorbitan Isostearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sorbitan IsostearateA mild yet powerful emulsifier primarily utilized to produce water-in-oil emulsions. It helps to create a particularly rich and substantial emulsion.
Microcrystalline Wax
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Microcrystalline WaxA white, highly purified, solid substance consisting of petroleum hydrocarbons. It is used in skincare as a strong occlusive and emollient similar to Petrolatum, and also as a formula helper that thickens and stabilizes the product.
Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Dipotassium GlycyrrhizateA licorice root derivative with powerful anti-inflammatory and soothing activities. It is often used as a flavoring agent in lip products.
Caesalpinia Spinosa Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Caesalpinia Spinosa Fruit ExtractA powerful astringent ingredient extracted from Tara seed pods. It also has antioxidant benefits.
Bacillus Ferment
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Bacillus FermentAn exfoliating mixture of fermentation products made by Bacillus subtilis. Its main active compound is a set of enzymes called proteases – which provide gentle exfoliation.
Candida/Garcinia Cambogia Ferment
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Candida/Garcinia Cambogia Ferment
Kappaphycus Alvarezii Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Kappaphycus Alvarezii ExtractAn emollient extract obtained from the red marine algae called elkhorn sea moss. It is a good source of moisturizing and antioxidant carrageenan, a seaweed polysaccharide.
Oryza Sativa (Rice) Germ Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Oryza Sativa (Rice) Germ OilA fatty oil extracted from rice seed germs. It consists of emollient and occlusive moisturizing oleic, linoleic, linolenic, and arachidonic acids, and is suitable for all skin types.
Schisandra Chinensis Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Schisandra Chinensis Fruit ExtractAn antioxidant, soothing, and humectant moisturizing extract obtained from Chinese magnolia-vine berries. Its main compounds are soothing and immunomodulatory lignans.
Hydrolyzed Collagen
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydrolyzed Collagen

A humectant, film-forming, and emollient mixture of various proteins and peptides that were created by cutting the huge molecules of normal collagen into smaller pieces for better absorption. It also has some antioxidant properties.

Lithospermum Erythrorhizon Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Lithospermum Erythrorhizon Root Extract
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.
Phytosteryl/Isostearyl/Cetyl/Stearyl/Behenyl Dimer Dilinoleate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Phytosteryl/Isostearyl/Cetyl/Stearyl/Behenyl Dimer Dilinoleate
Hydrogenated Polyisobutene
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydrogenated PolyisobuteneA viscous liquid that makes a great oil base due to its smooth sensorial profile. It has emollient features, including good spreadability and little tack upon application. It also has the added benefit of being able to thicken products.
Ethylhexyl Hydroxystearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ethylhexyl Hydroxystearate
Disteardimonium Hectorite
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Disteardimonium HectoriteA clay ingredient that functions primarily as a viscosity controlling agent that thickens all types of formulas. Disteardimonium hectorite imparts a smooth, velvety feel, making it a luxurious addition to any formula.
Propylene Carbonate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Propylene CarbonateA derivative of propylene glycol that is used most frequently as a solvent. Additionally, propylene carbonate serves as a viscosity controlling agent reducing the thickness of the products it is added to.
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.
Glyceryl Caprylate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glyceryl CaprylateA waxy solid derived from vegetable oils that has emollient and emulsifying properties. It is also known to boost the efficacy of organic acid preservatives by destabilizing the microbe's cell membrane.
Adenosine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Adenosine

A key molecule responsible for energy transportation, signaling, and enzyme activity. Adenosine is a popular anti-wrinkle ingredient, however, the key study about its anti-wrinkle efficacy (1) does not meet CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards as it is not double-blind.

Aluminum Hydroxide
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Aluminum HydroxideA white mineral powder, also known as alumina, that is derived from aluminum metal. It is frequently used as an abrasive in exfoliating products and as a thickener. Aluminum oxide is also a great opacifier.
Triethoxycaprylylsilane
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
TriethoxycaprylylsilaneA binding and coating ingredient that allows pigments like iron oxides and mica to disperse better in oily environments. This leads to more vibrant colors.
Tocopherol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tocopherol

Simply another name for vitamin E. Tocopherol is a fantastic ingredient and especially beneficial for dry and inflamed skin. It has occlusive moisturizing, emollient, antioxidant, and photoprotective properties.

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.
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.
Soluble Proteoglycan
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Soluble Proteoglycan
Sodium DNA
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium DNA
Fragrance
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
FragranceUnder trade secret law, manufacturers have the right not to disclose what exactly went into the fragrance and use the unspecific word Fragrance or Parfum instead. Many fragrances are highly allergenic.
Butylparaben
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
ButylparabenA preservative that belongs to the class of parabens. It is highly effective against the growth of fungi and yeast. There has been a lot of controversy surrounding parabens, but the concentrations in cosmetic formulations are generally considered to be safe
Hexyl Cinnamal
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hexyl Cinnamal

A synthetic scent ingredient that produces a jasmine-like fragrance. According to the International Fragrance Association (IFRA), hexyl cinnamal is a skin sensitizer and allergen and so its use in skincare should be limited.

Benzyl Salicylate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Benzyl Salicylate

A fragrance ingredient with a sweet, floral, and slightly balsamic scent. It is one of the twenty-six fragrances that are considered allergens according to the International Fragrance Association (IFRA), and so its use is restricted.

Hydroxycitronellal
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydroxycitronellal

A fragrant compound with a scent reminiscent of lilies and sweet tropical melon. It can be found in many different essential oils (such as palmarosa, ylang-ylang, and lemongrass essential oil) but is manufactured synthetically from citronellal.

Citronellol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citronellol

A fragrant compound found naturally in many essential oils (mainly lemongrass). It can have a lemon or a rose scent. People with sensitive skin should try to avoid products with citronellol, or at least do a patch test before using it.

Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Alpha-Isomethyl IononeA fragrance ingredient that is supplied as a pale, yellow liquid. The scent it emits is very clean and features notes of violet and orris. Alpha-isomethyl is also used as a flavoring agent in lip care products and even in some foods and drinks.
Linalool
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
LinaloolA fragrant, volatile compound naturally present in many essential oils. It has a pleasant scent and is often used in skincare products as a fragrance. People with sensitive skin should try to avoid it, or at least do a patch test before using it.
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)One of two the most commonly used mineral sunscreens. It can absorb UV light, including UVB – which causes burning, tanning, and even skin cancer. Also used as a colorant, titanium dioxide gives a product a bright white color.
Gardenia Florida Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Gardenia Florida Fruit ExtractDerived from the dark orange fruits of a Chinese flowering shrub called Gardenia florida, this extract acts as a yellow pigment.