According to just about every beauty junkie and skincare expert out there, Korea’s beauty companies are on to something. Not only did they pioneer the BB crème, craze, they are years ahead of the United States in anti-aging and hydration science. Korean women often employ a routine that numbers in the double digits for products used daily. Think that sounds overkill? One glance at the clear, bright complexions of these ladies might change your mind. So, what Korean products should you be snatching up? Read on to find out.
South Korean Skincare
Dr. Jart Premium Beauty Balm SPF 45
When it comes to hype, BB Cremes (also called Beauty Balms) have seen their fair share. However, in this case those accolades are well earned. Korean makeup and skincare is all about pampering the skin and giving it plenty of nourishment. Beauty balms accomplish this by delivering sunscreen, moisturizer, serum, and light coverage to your face all in one little product. This particular BB has a big fan base in the States and can be used alone or under a heavier moisturizer.
Buy it for $39 here .
Laneige Water Bank Essence
While Americans are often drawn to products that strip or dry out the skin, Korean skincare is all about moisture. This refreshing moisturizer is said to be super long lasting and contains chestnut and seaweed extracts, both believed to promote cell turnover which means younger looking skin.
Buy it now for $39 here .
AmorePacific Moisture Bound Vitalizing Mask
It may sound strange to stateside beauty lovers, but overnight masks are a staple in Korean skincare. Used to impart big doses of moisture and nutrients to skin, these masks are applied before bed and do their magic while you sleep. AmorePacific’s Vitalizing Mask is a popular offering that was formulated to boost moisture levels and increase beneficial antioxidants.
Buy it now for $60 here .
Sulwashoo Balancing Emulsion
When listing their essential products, Korean women will often cite emulsions as a must-have. Emulsions are products that are lighter than a traditional moisturizer and are water-based so it won’t clog pores – they are mainly used as a source of hydration before a heavier cream is applied. This emulsion from Sulwahsoo employs powerful Korean herbs to make skin soft and smooth.
Buy it now for $60 here .
Masqueology Pore Minimizing Mask
Smooth skin is serious business for Korean women and that means visible pores are a no-go. This single-use mask may look odd while you wear it but the paper-like material is packed with skin brighteners and ceramides that can help to visibly minimize pores and smooth rough skin.
Buy 3 for $24 here .
AmorePacific Luminous Effects Brightening Serum
Another must-have item in a typical Korean woman’s skincare regimen is serum or essence as it’s commonly known in the Korean beauty market. These products are often used to help achieve the bright, glowing complexions we covet. This serum from AmorePacific contains ingredients to help brighten skin and eliminate hyper-pigmentation.
Buy it now for $160 here .