If there’s one thing South Korea does well (aside from K-pop and K-dramas), it’s skin care. Not for nothing do they have the reputation of having the most radiant skin in the world. And the best part is that you don’t need to travel all the way to Seoul to get their wonders in bottles; these days, many Korean brands are just a click away. Ready to meet the products that could change your beauty routine?
Cleansers that leave skin feeling silky smooth
The first step in any Korean routine is double cleansing. Here are two must-have options:
- Banila Co Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm: This makeup-removing balm is a dream come true. It melts into the skin, removing makeup and sunscreen without leaving a greasy feeling.
- COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser: If you’re looking for a gentle yet effective cleanser, this is perfect. It maintains skin’s pH balance and doesn’t leave skin feeling dry.
Toners that hydrate and balance
Gone are the days of astringent toners that felt like pure alcohol. In the Korean routine, toners hydrate and prepare the skin:
- Klairs Supple Preparation Facial Toner: It’s like giving your skin a glass of water. It hydrates, soothes and helps the following products absorb better.
- Isntree Green Tea Fresh Toner: Perfect if you have oily skin because it controls sebum without drying.
Essences that transform skin
If you’ve never used an essence, you’re missing a key step. They’re lightweight liquids with potent ingredients that aid in cell regeneration.
- Missha Time Revolution The First Treatment Essence: Contains fermented yeast, which brightens and smoothes skin as if you’ve had a facial.
- COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence: Snail mucin hydrates, repairs and leaves skin with an enviable glow.
Serums that change everything
Serums are those products that target specific problems. Here are a few favorites:
- Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum: With propolis and niacinamide, it hydrates, soothes and gives a natural glow.
- Some By Mi AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Serum: Ideal for acne-prone skin, it gently exfoliates and improves skin texture.
Moisturizers that seal everything in
To finish the routine, you need a cream that keeps everything in place:
- Laneige Water Bank Moisture Cream: An ultra-moisturizing yet lightweight option, perfect for any skin type.
- Etude House Soon Jung 2x Barrier Intensive Cream: If you have sensitive skin, this cream is a hug in the form of hydration.
Sunscreens: the best-kept secret
If there’s one Korean product you need in your life, it’s a good sunscreen. They are light, with no white residue and beautiful finishes:
- Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics SPF 50+: Moisturizes and protects without leaving skin oily.
- COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF 50+: Perfect for dry skin, it leaves a cool and soothing sensation.
Now it’s time to shine!
The magic of Korean skin care lies in its philosophy: moisturize, nourish and protect without the need for harsh products. If you try some of these favorites, your skin will thank you. So tell me, which one are you going to try first?
