Have you noticed the global buzz around Korean skincare products? From Instagram to international beauty counters, Korean brands have been making waves worldwide, catching the attention of beauty enthusiasts everywhere.
Hello, K-beauty enthusiasts!
As an aesthetic physician, I’m frequently asked, “Which Korean skincare products do you recommend?”after treatments. Let me share some candid insights that go beyond the marketing hype.
Now, let me be honest with you—
just because I’m Korean doesn’t mean I exclusively use Korean products.
When it comes to basic skincare and cleansing, I’m in love with Yves Saint Laurent’s Pure Shot series, and I also use a wide range of serums from The Ordinary. My go-to foundation is from the Japanese brand RMK, and for makeup, I often reach for Bobbi Brown or MAC products. Sunscreen? RMK or Biore from Japan has my heart!
K-Smart Choices?
But that doesn’t mean I don’t use Korean products at all!
While I’m selective, there are Korean products that have genuinely impressed me.
Don’t be fooled by all the glamorous marketing!
However, I wanted to make it clear that being Korean doesn’t automatically mean I stick to Korean products. There are even products that we locals have never heard of or used. So, let me introduce you to a few Korean skincare products that I personally use and love.
Here are three standouts from my daily routine:
1. Dr.G Brightening Peeling Gel
A nostalgic favorite that takes me back to childhood visits to the dermatologist. Developed by Korea’s first cosmetic dermatology clinic, this gel offers:
Smooth, radiant skin
Convenient travel-sized packaging
This peeling gel gently exfoliates your skin without irritation. Plus, it comes in a cute, travel-friendly size that’s perfect for popping into your bag for a quick refresh after a round of golf or during your travels! It leaves your skin smooth and radiant—what’s not to love?
2. Numbuzin Toner Pad
Tailored skincare at its finest. Numbuzin toner pads come in a variety of options, so you can pick the one that suits your skin’s needs. My favorite is number 4, which tightens pores and keeps sebum under control.
Controls sebum
Hydrates with hyaluronic acid
Contains advanced ingredients like betaine, PHA, and LHA
Thanks to the hyaluronic acid, it’s super hydrating, and it also contains betaine, PHA, LHA, and patented ANTI SEBUM ingredients.
It’s great for wiping off any leftover makeup and evening out your skin texture after cleansing—just what you need to start your skincare routine right!
3. ANUA Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil
4.ANUA Quercetinol Pore Deep Cleansing Foam
Have you heard about the magic of double cleansing?
This oil and foam ultimate double-cleansing duo is fantastic for removing makeup residue, blackheads, and sebum while preventing clogged pores.
Targets blackheads and excess sebum
Prevents clogged pores
Provides gentle exfoliation
With 3,000ppm of Heartleaf powder and quercetinol, known for its anti-inflammatory benefits, these products cleanse deep within your pores, gently exfoliate, and remove impurities—all while keeping your skin calm and soothed.
The Verdict: Is K-skincare products Worth It?
There are plenty of affordable yet effective Korean skincare products out there, just like the ones I’ve mentioned.
Marketing can be seductive, but the most important factor is finding what works for your unique skin. Each person’s skin is different, and what works for one might not work for another.
After all, everyone’s skin is different!
My advice? Explore, experiment, and listen to your skin. Don’t be swayed by glamorous campaigns—focus on products that truly deliver results.
Remember, skincare is a personal journey. It’s about understanding your skin, respecting its needs, and finding products that help you feel confident and comfortable in your own skin.
Happy skincare hunting!
Dr. Soomin