Tatcha The Water Gel Review

Tatcha The Water Gel
5.1
/ 10
Moisturizing
10.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
0.2 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
Rich
in Antioxidants
Rich Skin Soothing icon
in Skin Soothers
Ingredients

Tatcha The Water Gel Ingredients

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Full Ingredient List (INCI):

Water, Glycerin, Propanediol, Rosa Multiflora Fruit Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Inositol, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Sophora Angustifolia Root Extract, Belamcanda Chinensis Root Extract, Houttuynia Cordata Extract, Sericin, Stearyl Glycyrrhetinate, Algae Extract, Gold (CI 77480), Hydrogenated Lecithin, Squalane, Lecithin, Pistacia Lentiscus (Mastic) Gum, Sodium Dilauramidoglutamide Lysine, Mica, Silica, Xanthan Gum, Bis-PEG-18 Methyl Ether Dimethyl Silane, Ammonium Acryloyl Dimethyltaurate/Carboxyethyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, HDI/Trimethylol Hexyllactone Crosspolymer, Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate, Disodium EDTA, Tin Oxide, Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), PEG-400, Butylene Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Alcohol, Phenoxyethanol
Review

Does Tatcha The Water Gel Work?

 
According to CreamScan's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what Tatcha The Water Gel 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: Tatcha The Water Gel contains a high concentration of soothing ingredients, which may help to reduce irritation and calm the skin.
✅ Antioxidant protection

  

Key Benefits of Tatcha The Water Gel

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using Tatcha The Water Gel:
 

🔵 Lightweight Humectant Moisturizer Ideal for Oily Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, Tatcha The Water Gel 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 Glycerin (est. ≈7.5%), Propanediol (est. ≈5.0%) and Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract (est. ≈2.5%).

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 Tatcha The Water Gel is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract (est. ≈2.5%).

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, Tatcha The Water Gel is rich (> 5%) in soothing ingredients, particularly Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract (est. ≈2.5%).

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.

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

Things to Be Aware Of: Tatcha The Water Gel

 
CreamScan identified a few things to consider before adding Tatcha The Water Gel to your skincare routine:
 

⚠️ Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy

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

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

While this does not categorically rule out the possibility that Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract may reduce wrinkles, its efficacy is not supported by convincing, vehicle-controlled, double-blind clinical studies - at least none that were available 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 Tatcha The Water Gel

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of Tatcha The Water Gel 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 Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
 

⭕ Cons: 

⚠️ Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy
   

Summary: Tatcha The Water Gel

 
Based on the ingredient list analysis, CreamScan AI suggests that Tatcha The Water Gel
, when used alone, delivers lightweight, humectant-rich moisturizing, making it ideal for oily skin. As part of a moisturizing routine, it provides a humectant boost, beneficial for all skin types.
 
Rich in antioxidants, Tatcha The Water Gel helps protect against free radical damage and offers multiple benefits for all skin types, including preventing premature aging, defending against environmental damage, and calming inflammation. This product is also formulated with a high concentration of soothing ingredients, offering the potential to calm and comfort irritated skin. Whether you’re experiencing redness, irritation, or general sensitivity, its soothing properties may help restore balance and provide relief.
 
That said, there are some things about Tatcha The Water Gel worth noting.
 
If one of your main reasons for considering Tatcha The Water Gel is its potential anti-aging effects, please note that, according to CreamScan analysis, its anti-wrinkle efficacy is questionable. None of the ingredients in this product provide substantial evidence of their anti-wrinkle efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards.
 
📌 Fact check. At CreamScan, we are committed to accuracy and fairness. If you spot any errors or something that doesn’t seem right, please click here to let us know. We regularly update the ingredient lists and monitor the latest research on ingredient efficacy to ensure that our information remains as complete and precise as possible. The information provided here is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional advice. We do not guarantee the efficacy or safety of any product, as individual results may vary.

 

Ingredient Breakdown

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
70
7.5
5
3
2.5
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
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Propanediol
Function:
Origin:
Rosa Multiflora Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Inositol
Function:
Origin:
Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract
Function:
Origin:
Sophora Angustifolia Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Belamcanda Chinensis Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Houttuynia Cordata Extract
Function:
Origin:
Sericin
Function:
Origin:
Stearyl Glycyrrhetinate
Function:
Origin:
Algae Extract
Function:
Origin:
Gold (CI 77480)
Function:
Origin:
Hydrogenated Lecithin
Function:
Origin:
Squalane
Function:
Origin:
Lecithin
Function:
Origin:
Pistacia Lentiscus (Mastic) Gum
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Dilauramidoglutamide Lysine
Function:
Origin:
Mica
Function:
Origin:
Silica
Function:
Origin:
Xanthan Gum
Function:
Origin:
Bis-PEG-18 Methyl Ether Dimethyl Silane
Function:
Origin:
Ammonium Acryloyl Dimethyltaurate/Carboxyethyl Acrylate Crosspolymer
Function:
Origin:
HDI/Trimethylol Hexyllactone Crosspolymer
Function:
Origin:
Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate
Function:
Origin:
Disodium EDTA
Function:
Origin:
Tin Oxide
Function:
Origin:
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)
Function:
Origin:
PEG-400
Function:
Origin:
Butylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexylglycerin
Function:
Origin:
Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
19.1
7.5
5
2.5
2
0.3
0.3
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 19.1 10
10.0
7.5
5
2.5
2
0.3
0.3
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
7.5
5
2.5
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 19.1 10
10
All humectants
19.1
7.5
5
2.5
2
0.3
0.3
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
- 2.5 -
Total
0
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
2.5
Anti-wrinkle rating
0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
2.5
1.5
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 4.6 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
4.6
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
2.5
Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract
1.5
Houttuynia Cordata Extract
0.3
Algae Extract
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
2.5
1.5
1.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 5.9 5 Rich in soothing
All soothing
5.9
2.5
1.5
1.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Water
Est. %70
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.
Glycerin
Est. %7.5
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

Propanediol
Est. %5
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.
Rosa Multiflora Fruit Extract
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Rosa Multiflora Fruit Extract
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Est. %2.5
Function
Origin
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract

An antioxidant green tea extract. In the deeper layers, it slows down the destruction of collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid – thus delaying the signs of aging. It also acts as an anti-acne, soothing, moisturizing, and emollient ingredient.

Inositol
Est. %2
Function
Origin
InositolA humectant moisturizing, sugar-like compound that is present in all the cells of the body, but especially the brain. It is manufactured from sugar beets or carob tree pods for skincare purposes.
Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower ExtractDerived from German chamomile flowers, this extract is especially known for its anti-inflammatory and soothing benefits. It contains two soothing compounds called chamazulene and bisabolol, as well as antioxidant flavonoids.
Sophora Angustifolia Root Extract
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
Sophora Angustifolia Root ExtractDerived from the root of the shrubby sophora, this soothing extract contains anti-inflammatory flavonoids. It also has the ability to reduce the appearance of dark spots.
Belamcanda Chinensis Root Extract
Est. %1
Function
Origin
Belamcanda Chinensis Root Extract
Houttuynia Cordata Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Houttuynia Cordata ExtractAn extract from a herbaceous plant fish leaf. It contains various antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds. It shows interesting antimicrobial potential due to its unique phytochemical composition.
Sericin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
SericinOne of the two polymers that form a strand of natural silk. It acts as a humectant moisturizer in skincare, and as an anti-static in hair care.
Stearyl Glycyrrhetinate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Stearyl GlycyrrhetinateA plant compound obtained from licorice root. It is a powerful soothing ingredient that acts similar to steroid hormones and helps to treat inflamed and irritated skin.
Algae Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Algae ExtractThe name describes any extract made from any kind of algae. Algae extracts are moisturizing humectants – the gelatin-like polysaccharides bind and retain water, thereby hydrating the skin. Algae is a rich source of emollient and antioxidant compounds.
Gold (CI 77480)
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Gold (CI 77480)

A colorant used in skincare, typically processed into fine particles for uniform dispersion. Its luxurious hue enhances product aesthetics, while its role as a slip and surface modifier improves texture and application. Despite touted anti-aging benefits, definitive scientific evidence is lacking.

Hydrogenated Lecithin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydrogenated LecithinA version of plain lecithin that has been saturated with hydrogen atoms. This ingredient can be derived from plants, like soy or sunflower, from egg yolks, or made synthetically. Its major function is to emulsify water and oils.
Squalane
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
SqualaneAn occlusive moisturizing and emollient compound that forms part of the skin’s sebum. The main source of squalane had always been shark liver. Now, however, it is manufactured synthetically or derived from plant oils, such as olive and peanut oil.
Lecithin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
LecithinA humectant, emollient, and emulsifier best suited for water-in-oil emulsions. Lecithin can come from sunflowers, soy, and eggs. The downside to lecithin is that it causes an extra burden on the formula’s preservative because it is nutritious.
Pistacia Lentiscus (Mastic) Gum
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Pistacia Lentiscus (Mastic) GumA thick, film-forming, adhesive, and fragrant natural gum called mastic gum. It consists of resin-scented essential oil.
Sodium Dilauramidoglutamide Lysine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Dilauramidoglutamide Lysine
Mica
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
MicaA mineral powder made up of silicates with several functions (the main one being as a colorant). It has a shimmery appearance, making it highly desirable in certain cosmetic products. Mica also helps the product to apply more smoothly.
Silica
Est. %0.3
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.
Xanthan Gum
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Xanthan GumA natural multi-functional ingredient that originates from fermented sugars. Xanthan gum acts as a viscosity-building agent to thicken skincare products. It is also an excellent stabilizer and works well to hold other ingredients together.
Bis-PEG-18 Methyl Ether Dimethyl Silane
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Bis-PEG-18 Methyl Ether Dimethyl SilaneA silicone with the unusual trait of being able to disperse in water. It moisturizes the skin as a humectant and leaves a soft and smooth after-feel. This ingredient also has foam-boosting properties.
Ammonium Acryloyl Dimethyltaurate/Carboxyethyl Acrylate Crosspolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ammonium Acryloyl Dimethyltaurate/Carboxyethyl Acrylate Crosspolymer
HDI/Trimethylol Hexyllactone Crosspolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
HDI/Trimethylol Hexyllactone CrosspolymerAn anticaking agent that prevents a product from forming lumps. It also increases slip and produces an elegant finish in skincare formulations.
Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polyglyceryl-10 MyristateA solubilizer that can help incorporate small amounts of oil to an otherwise watery product while providing lightweight skin feel.
Disodium EDTA
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Disodium EDTAA synthetic chelator that helps to maintain the look and smell of a product by 'locking up' troublesome metal ions.
Tin Oxide
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tin OxideA multi-functional mineral that increases the physical space a product takes up, increases the viscosity of liquid products, and, when used as an opacifying agent, makes a transparent or translucent product become opaque or solid in color.
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.
PEG-400
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PEG-400
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.

Ethylhexylglycerin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
EthylhexylglycerinA preservative booster derived from glycerin. It is commonly paired with other preservatives to improve their efficacy. Ethylhexylglycerin is also a humectant due to its chemical base of glycerin.
Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
AlcoholAn effective antimicrobial ingredient that kills bacteria, fungi, and even some viruses. It is also an excellent solvent and astringent. Alcohol helps to create lighter and less viscous products. It can, however, be dehydrating and skin-sensitizing.
Phenoxyethanol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PhenoxyethanolThe most frequently used preservative in skincare. It is a clear, oil-like liquid synthetic substance that protects products from harmful bacteria and yeast, whilst still leaving skin microflora unharmed. It is confirmed by research to be harmless.