Glistening and Glowing: Korean Skincare For The Win!

Blemishes, wrinkles, pimples, acne, hyperpigmentation, or oily/dry skin, and nothing seems to be helping? Ughhh, that’s no fun, and many of us have experienced that too. If it feels like your cabinets are filled with skincare products that are collecting dust because they didn’t work for you, don’t give up hope just yet. Korean skincare products are here to add some sparkle to your skincare routine. Crystal clear, hydrated, flawless, glowing skin that makes you want to stare at your reflection for hours. Skin that leaves you breaking necks and getting compliments every time you step out… yup! That’s exactly what Korean skincare is helping achieve, and the reason why the internet is going crazy over it. Take a look at some of the Korean skincare products that are buzzing on the internet and in real life. All affordable and easy to access!

Let’s start with a cleanser first. Cleansing your skin twice a day is the most important step in a skincare routine, hence why it's the first step. Here are three Korean skin care cleansers that may work wonders based on your skin type.

CosRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser: If your skin is acne-prone and pimples are your biggest struggle, say less; this cleanser has you covered. With its foamy-like consistency, it is great for deep cleansing. It removes excess oils from the skin and unclogs pores. Despite the word "Morning" in its name, the cleanser is to be used morning and night. You can also find the product at retailers like Ulta. 

Anua Heartleaf Quercetinol Pore Deep Cleansing Foam: This product works well for those who struggle with oily skin. This cleanser is fragrance-free and has plant-derived extracts. The cleansing foam clears pores, exfoliates dead skin cells, and soothes and hydrates skin as it contains hyaluronic acid. It can be found at many retailers, including the Anua website itself, Ulta, and Target.

Round Lab 1025 Dokdo Cleanser: If hyperpigmentation and dark spots are an insecurity for you, look no further; this product will help. Round Lab 1025 Dokdo Cleanser is infused with mineral deep-sea water from the Dokdo island in Japan. The cleanser helps nourish and remove skin waste. It does not irritate the skin and is generally deemed usable for all skin types, including those with hyperpigmentation and dark spots. It can be found at Walmart, Target, Amazon, Ulta, or even directly from the Round Lab website. Check out what this content creator is saying about the product below.

Next, in a basic skincare routine is toning, so here are 3 Korean skincare toners that will balance your skin's pH. 

Ma: Nyo Panthetoin Essence Toner: This product was voted best toner of 2024 according to Allure. The product can be used on any skin type. Its ingredient list is what makes Ma: Nyo’s toner stand out. It includes hyaluronic acid, ceramides, sunflower seed oil, panthenol, macadamia nut oil, and much more. It is designed to keep the skin smooth and moisturized throughout the day. You may purchase this toner at Ulta, Amazon, or Ma: Nyo’s website.

CosRX AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner: Fragrance Free yet powerful. CosRX’s treatment toner is made with some great stuff! The Glycolic Acid, salicylic acid, which are powerful enough to get rid of dead skin cells and unclog pores, will leave your skin feeling stunning. 

Aestura A-Cica 365 Calming Hydro Toner: Aestura’s Hydro Toner is one of the best for exfoliating. Gluconolactone, a gentle PHA, gets rid of dead skin cells and excess sebum. This toner works to leave your skin feeling moisturized and healthy. 

Third comes moisturizing. Here are 3 Korean skincare moisturizing products that will leave your skin glowing like never before. Moisturizing day and night is highly encouraged with all moisturizers, and especially these products.

Dr. Jart + Ceramidin Skin Barrier Moisturizing Cream: Although a little pricey, this moisturizing cream works great for dry skin. Its creamy consistency is loaded with hydration. Ceramide is a main factor in this cream, and so is panthenol. Together,  the two work to combat dry skin and give the skin a beautiful glow. This TikTok user loves the product. Her skin was left “glowy” due to the cream. She says it makes her skin “feel like butter.” The product should be used morning and night for the best results

Iope Stem III Cream: Iope Stem III Cream is a great product for those who struggle with sensitive skin. The cream has anti-inflammatory benefits and a peptide that smoothes and replenishes skin after one use. The product is completely gentle, so there's no need to stress over any possible irritation. You will be just fine. Check out these websites for the great gentle product. 

Laneige Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Cream Moisturizer: We all want glass-like skin, and this moisturizer is the perfect way to achieve it. This cream leaves a cooling sensation on the skin due to its mint leaf extract. The blue Hyaluronic acid is amazing. It's derived through biofermentation of sea algae. This is the perfect product for that glass-like skin. So don’t miss your chance for that glass-like skin. 

Everyone’s skin care routine may look different based on their skin type and how they would like their skin to look. However, it is important to include sunscreen in a basic skincare routine. This is one of the last steps in a basic routine. 

Thank You Farmer Sun Project Moisture Sun Cream SPF 40: You know those sunscreens that leave white residue? Good thing Thank You Farmer Sun Project Moisture Sun Cream does NOT. This sunscreen is packed with great ingredients, including Vitamin E and niacinamide. It can be used with any skin type. As stated in its name, the cream has an SPF of 40 and leaves a nourishing effect.

Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotic SPF50+ PA++++: This is one of the more viral products; it will leave you with a glow brighter than the sun! Kidding, of course, but you will be glowy. Similar to the previous sunscreen, this also has niacinamide. It also has rice extract and grain-derived probiotics. All to finish your routine off with a glowing effect.

Skin1004 Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum SPF 50+ PA++++: Skin1004’s sun serum is a lightweight product that is hydrating and great for sensitive skin. The sunscreen is moisturizing and doesn’t leave greasy or excess white residue. It is perfect for everyday use, and if you use makeup, this product is great under it. Made with hyaluronic acid to keep your skin healthy-looking. 

With all of these great products, don’t give up just yet. Give Korean skincare a try. Your glowing era is calling your name. So don’t be shy, your skin will thank you so much.