In the world of beauty, one thing has been rising for the last couple of months: the allure of Korean skincare. It's renowned for its multi-step routines and innovative ingredients (we're looking at you, snail mucin) and has undoubtedly captured the cosmetics industry globally.
From products turning into cult classics to favorites that change each season, each brand offers a unique approach to nabbing that innate, radiant glow that almost everyone wants. While these brands may not be known for catering to the diverse needs and preferences of non-Asian skin, every Tom, Dick, and Harry wants to give it a shot anyway.
Focusing on hydration, nourishment, and a youthful glow, these eight Korean skincare products from the best brands stand out as must-try options for 2024. All of them are Forbes-approved.
Disclaimer: The options provided in this article reflect the author's opinion. Reader discretion is advised.
Take a look at the best skincare products in the industry
1) SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum
This Koren sunscreen has the world in a chokehold, as Gen Z might say. It's lightweight and fast-absorbing, and almost everyone on TikTok has been raving about it for months. It's packed with hyaluronic acid, which is suitable for hydrating the skin, and Centella Asiatica, which is good for soothing. It also leaves the skin looking dewy-glowy and retails for $12, making it one of the brand's fastest-selling products.
2) Ma:nyo Pure Cleansing Oil Deep Clean
This cleansing oil is one of a kind. Everyone who's ever used mascara knows how difficult it is to remove, and this oil does just that with virtually no effort. The original version of this cleansing oil did supremely well, and when the Deep Clean edition was launched, no one would stop raving about it on TikTok.
Like many other K-beauty skincare products, this one too is lightweight, and yet seamlessly washes layers of makeup away, contributing to the brand's popularity.
3) The Face Shop Rice Water Bright Cleansing Foam
The beauty industry has its do's and don'ts, and not washing your face after you've used an oil cleanser is a big no-no. Plus, South Korean singer-rapper Jeon Wonwoo is a huge fan of the product and is the brand's ambassador, propelling the product's success to new heights. It's loaded with rice water, popular for brightening the skin, alongside soapwort and moringa oil.
4) House of Dohwa Rice Bran Powder Wash
This exfoliating cleanser is one of the brand's best-selling products. The formula is packed with rice extracts, coupled with some anti-inflammatory bromelain. Unlike other products in the same vein, this skincare product comes as a powder. Add a bit of water to it to form a paste, which turns into a formula that cleans the skin from within without stripping away its moisture. Bonus point: It's vegan.
5) TIRTIR Milk Skin Toner
While TIRTIR may have copped some flak online for not having inclusive foundations in its red cushion range, the company bounced back more vital than ever with an all-inclusive range to accommodate nearly every skin tone. Notably, another one of its standout products in the skincare range is this toner, known for its ultra-hydrating milky formula.
6) SOME BY MI AHA-BHA-PHA 30 Days Miracle Truecica Clear Pad
Another toner to make it to this list is the 30 Days Miracle Truecica Clear Pad. It's infamous for erasing breakouts instantly, and its ability to add a vibrant glow to the skin only takes things to the next level. This toner is best for those with acne-prone, combination, or oily skin, and it helps minimize pores, adding to the brand's appeal.
7) CNP Laboratory Propolis Energy Active Ampule
This anti-oxidant product, known to work wonders on sensitive skin, is jam-packed with two types of propolis extracts, hyaluronic acid, beta-glucan, and madecassoside, leaving the skin hydrated, soothed and nourishing-- not to mention the glow it leaves after. The lightweight skincare serum smells like aloe vera, and can be used morning and night.
8) CosRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence
Arguably one of the most-known products in Korean skincare, this also happens to be the brand's most popular product. The bottle of snail mucin had everyone flabbergasted, and soon enough, as many tried and tested it, they started raving about it. It's known for its hydrating and moisturizing effects, as well as the ability to target dark spots. It nourishes the skin and works wonders for all skin types.
And there you have it. These are some of the best skincare products in the game, and the brands that produce them have undoubtedly dominated the industry. Korean skincare is becoming a household name from the snail mucin to the rice water-infused toner.
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