The Water Cream

by Tatcha

mid-tier

Product Variations

Trend Summary

Demonstrates the need for diverse formulations within major trends, offering a lightweight, oil-free option for those with combination to oily skin who still want a sensorial experience.

Key Features

Japanese Wild Rose
Japanese Leopard Lily
Oil-free formula

Featured In

Allure

NewBeauty

Vogue (US Edition)

Harper's Bazaar (US Edition)

Product Specifications

Color

A white to off-white, semi-translucent gel-cream.

Material (Cream)

Key ingredients include Water, Propanediol, Niacinamide, a peptide complex, and botanical extracts like White Tea and Lotus Flower.

Material (Packaging)

A heavy, frosted glass jar with an aluminum lid and an included reusable applicator.

Shape

A sleek, minimalist round jar.

Size (Volume)

50 ml / 1.7 fl. oz.

Texture

A gel-cream that breaks into a water-like texture upon application, feeling light and refreshing.

Scent

A subtle, clean, and fresh scent.

Key Features

- Oil-free formula. - Features a "water-break" texture for immediate hydration. - Niacinamide helps to balance oil production and improve skin texture. - A peptide complex supports skin elasticity and firmness. - White Tea and Lotus Flower extracts provide antioxidant and soothing properties.

Target Skin Type

Normal, combination, and slightly sensitive skin.

Application

Use the provided applicator to scoop a small amount and massage it onto the face and neck.

Differentiation Strategy

Differentiation is achieved by shifting the "hero" ingredients from Japanese botanicals to a combination of science-backed actives and different plant extracts. The inclusion of Niacinamide and peptides offers a more "derm-focused" appeal, targeting concerns like texture and elasticity. The branding and packaging are minimalist and modern, contrasting with Tatcha's ornate and traditional aesthetic. The scent is clean and fresh rather than distinctly floral.

Success Replication

This product emulates the successful "water-burst" texture, providing a similar sensorial experience upon application. It maintains the oil-free and lightweight hydration benefits that are key to the original's popularity, making it suitable for similar skin types. The packaging, a glass jar with an applicator, retains a sense of ritual and luxury. The use of botanical extracts, though different from the original, keeps the connection to nature-derived ingredients.