Canmake Mermaid Skin Gel UV: Review and Shade Guide
Canmake Mermaid Skin Gel UV SPF50+ PA++++ is the sunscreen that makes people say “wait, this costs how much?” It’s around $5 to $8 depending on the retailer, provides SPF50+ PA++++ protection, and doubles as a primer with a dewy finish.
The catch: it comes in a tiny tube. But for the price, most people don’t mind buying multiples.
What Makes It Good
The texture is a lightweight gel that applies smoothly and dries down with a slight dewiness. It sits between “invisible” (like Biore) and “noticeable” (like a traditional sunscreen). The finish is what people describe as “glass skin” territory: hydrated, slightly luminous, refined.
As a primer it works surprisingly well. Many people skip separate primer entirely and just use Mermaid Skin Gel as their makeup base. Foundation applies smoothly over it without pilling.
The protection is real: SPF50+ PA++++. Same rating as products that cost 5 to 10 times more. It contains zinc oxide (a mineral filter) alongside chemical filters, which is an unusual combination in Japanese sunscreens.
The price is genuinely absurd for what you get. In Japan it costs about ¥770 (~$5). Imported to the US it’s usually $6 to $10.
The Shade Guide
Canmake Mermaid Skin Gel comes in several versions:
01 Clear
The transparent version. No tint, no color correction. Goes on invisible. This is the safest choice if you’re unsure which shade to get and the best option for deeper skin tones.
02 White (discontinued in some markets)
A light white shade that gives a subtle brightening effect. Can leave a slight white cast on medium to deep skin tones.
CICA Mint
A green tinted version with cica (centella) ingredients. The green tint helps neutralize redness. Good for people with redness, rosacea, or post acne redness who want color correction built into their sunscreen.
Lavender
A lavender tinted version for brightening. Similar concept to Skin Aqua Tone Up UV Essence but in Canmake’s gel format. Gives a subtle purple brightening effect. May look ashy on deeper skin tones.
For most people: start with 01 Clear. It works on all skin tones and you can see if you like the gel format before trying tinted versions.
Potential Downsides
Small tube. 40g is not much product, especially if you’re using it on your face and neck daily. You’ll go through tubes quickly.
Zinc oxide means possible white cast. The Clear version minimizes this, but people with very deep skin tones should be aware that the zinc oxide content can leave a slight cast that Biore Aqua Rich (pure chemical filters) doesn’t.
Not water resistant. This is an everyday sunscreen, not an outdoor performance one. For beach or sports, use Anessa Perfect UV Milk.
Dewy finish isn’t for everyone. If you have oily skin and prefer a matte finish, Biore or Skin Aqua Tone Up might be better choices.
How It Compares
vs Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence: Biore is more invisible, lighter, and uses only chemical filters (zero white cast risk). Canmake is dewier and works better as a primer. Both are affordable. Different finishes for different preferences.
vs Skin Aqua Tone Up: Skin Aqua’s lavender tint is stronger and the tone correcting effect is more noticeable. Canmake is subtler and more primer like. Skin Aqua dries down more matte.
vs Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen: Supergoop is the US equivalent in concept (sunscreen + primer). It costs about $38 for 40ml vs $6 to $8 for Canmake. The Canmake is a fraction of the price for the same protection level.
Related: Canmake vs Cezanne · Best Japanese Sunscreen · Skin Aqua vs Biore
FAQ
Does Canmake Mermaid Skin Gel leave a white cast?
The Clear (01) version leaves minimal cast on most skin tones, but the zinc oxide content means a slight cast is possible on very deep skin tones. For zero white cast, Biore UV Aqua Rich is the safer option.
Can you use it as a primer?
Yes. This is one of its most popular uses. Apply it as the last step of skincare, let it set for a minute, then apply foundation or BB cream directly over it. We cover this in detail in our best Japanese sunscreens under makeup guide.
How long does the small tube last?
About 3 to 4 weeks with daily face only application. If you’re also applying to neck and ears, closer to 2 to 3 weeks. The price is low enough that buying multiples isn’t painful.
Is it good for oily skin?
The dewy finish may add unwanted shine for very oily skin. The Clear version is the best bet if you want to try it. Alternatively, Skin Aqua Tone Up provides a more matte finish at a similar price.
Where can you buy Canmake Outside Japan?
Available from J beauty specialty retailers. Canmake is one of the more widely stocked Japanese brands. Check the product page in our directory for current retailer availability.