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These days, there's no escaping the best Korean skin-care products. Once an up-and-coming trend, K-beauty gave rise to stateside mainstays like Cosrx, Innisfree, and Beauty of Joseon. Now, thanks to social media—and retailers like Amazon and Soko Glam—it's easier than ever to access some of South Korea's most innovative trends and brands, like Dr.Althea, Iope, and Torriden. (Though, trust us, if you're able to make a trip out there, nothing beats the sublime experience of visiting an Olive Young store.)
So, what exactly is the draw here? For one, "Koreans are serious about their skin care," says Charlotte Cho, cofounder of Soko Glam and Then I Met You. As a result, they're incredibly savvy. Plus, the sheer breadth of products means that people can be discerning. "They know what they want, like innovation, gentle ingredients, pleasing packaging—and they don't want to pay a fortune for it," Cho attests.
Our Top Korean Skin-Care Products
- Best Cleansing Oil: Ma:nyo Pure Cleansing Oil, $29
- Best Cleansing Balm: Dr.Althea Pure Grinding Balm, $23
- Best Foam Cleanser: Etude House SoonJung pH 6.5 Whip Cleanser, $22
- Best Gel Cleanser: Cosrx Low pH Good Morning Gel Face Cleanser, $14
- Best Hydrating Toner: I'm From Rice Toner, $24
- Best Exfoliating Toner: Innisfree Gentle Retinol Salicylic Daily Toner Pads, $28
- Best Essence: Cosrx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence, $17
- Best Vitamin C Serum: Dr. Althea Vitamin C Boosting Serum, $27
- Best Hydrating Serum: Torriden Dive In Low-Molecular Hyaluronic Acid Serum, $24
- Best Retinol Serum: Iope Retinol Super Bounce Serum, $50
- Best Daytime Moisturizer: Belif The True Cream Aqua Bomb, $22
- Best Nighttime Moisturizer: Hanyul Yuja Vitamin Sleeping Mask, $30
- Best Chemical Sunscreen: Then I Met You Essence Light Sunscreen, $36
- Best Mineral Sunscreen: Koolsol by Knours Ultra Light Invisible Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50, $25
- Best Overnight Sheet Mask: Biodance Bio Collagen Real Deep Mask, $19
- Best Quick Sheet Mask: Dr. Jart Cicapair Intensive Soothing Repair Serum Mask, $10
- Best Body Wash: Some By Mi AHA-BHA-PHA 30 Days Miracle Acne Body Cleanser, $18
- Best Body Lotion: Illiyoon Ceramide Ato Concentrate Cream, $29
- Best Lip Treatment: Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask, $24
- Best Splurge: Sulwhasoo First Care Activating Serum, $89
The Korean approach to treating anything, from acne to fine lines, always focuses on hydrating, calming ingredients, and respecting the skin barrier. For that reason, you can often find active ingredients like niacinamide, green tea, hyaluronic acid, and Centella asiatica (a.k.a. cica) in Korean beauty products, Claire Chang, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at New York City's Union Square Dermatology, previously told Allure.
If this all sounds appealing to you, you're not alone. Korean skin-care brands have long upped the standards for the global beauty industry—and if we're being honest, our standards as well. Double-cleansing has forever changed our skin (and the state of our pores), and Korean sunscreen formulas are second to none. Get comfortable because we gathered the most innovative, price-efficient, and all-around best Korean skin-care products to incorporate into your routine. Ready for glass-like skin? Dive right in.
Frequently Asked Questions
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- What is a Korean skin-care routine?
- What are trending ingredients in Korean skin care?
- Can I trust buying Korean skin-care products online?
- Meet the experts
- How we test and review products
- Our staff and testers
Best Cleansing Oil: Ma:nyo Pure Cleansing Oil
Manyo Factory
Pure Cleansing Oil
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
Senior news editor Nicola Dall’Asen washing her face with the Man:yo Pure Cleansing Oil
Nicola Dall'Asen
Why it's worth it: The Ma:nyo Pure Cleansing Oil is a must-try for anyone looking for a gentle yet effective cleanse with naturally derived ingredients. Made with 14 nourishing plant oils (including soybean, jojoba, argan, and sunflower), it delivers a boost of hydration while effortlessly dissolving stubborn waterproof makeup. The lightweight formula emulsifies beautifully, gliding across your skin and gently removing makeup, even around delicate areas like the eyes.
Tester feedback from Allure senior news editor Nicola Dall'Asen
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“Oil cleansing for a few minutes every single night has taken my skin from good to great. When my pores are particularly clogged, I can physically feel the sebum and dirt coming out after rubbing a couple pumps of this gentle formula into my skin. It's the only reason my facialists are always telling me there's no need for extractions.” —Nicola Dall'Asen, senior news editor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: argan oil, jojoba oil, soybean oil
- Who it's for: people with sensitive, dry, or acne-prone skin
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Cleansing Balm: Dr.Althea Pure Grinding Cleansing Balm
Dr. Althea
Pure Grinding Cleansing Balm
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
Commerce producer Sarah Hoffmann washing her face with the Dr. Althea Pure Grinding Cleansing Balm
Sarah Hoffmann
Why it's worth it: Why dip your fingers into a pot of product when you can buy Dr.Althea's Pure Grinding Cleansing Balm, which features one of our favorite dispensers, possibly ever? It twists up, "shaving" the balm into petal-like sheets, so you can easily keep track of how much you're actually using. Design aside, our editors love that this sensitive-skin-friendly formula is soothing, thanks to madecassoside and Centella asiatica extract (cica).
Tester feedback from Allure commerce producer Sarah Hoffmann
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“My main metric for cleansing balms are how easily they remove makeup (specifically eye makeup) and how soft my skin feels afterwards Dr. Althea's Pure Grinding Cleansing Balm checks both of those boxes. The formula emulsifies so well and melts mascara, eyeliner, and the rest off like a total dream. My skin feels baby smooth and perfectly soft every time I use it. Plus, the grinder dispensing method means no searching for an applicator spoon and no dipping my hands into a pot of product (something I've always found semi-gross). Genius.”
More to know
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- Key ingredients: madecassoside, Centella asiatica (cica) extract
- Who it's for: everyone
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Foaming Cleanser: Etude House SoonJung pH 6.5 Whip Cleanser
Etude House
SoonJung pH 6.5 Whip Cleanser
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
Soko Glam
Commerce editor Sarah Han washing her face with the Etude House SoonJung pH 6.5 Whip Cleanser
Sarah Han
Why it's worth it: Once you've used an oil-based cleanser to break down oil-based products, follow with a water-based formula, such as Etude House's ultra-gentle SoonJung pH 6.5 Whip Cleanser. The entire Soon Jung line is formulated to have a pH of 6.5, a touch more basic than our skin's natural pH of 5.5. This prevents skin from feeling tight, stripped, or otherwise uncomfortable. Bonus: This fragrance-free, hypoallergenic foam also contains madecassoside (derived from cica) to repair skin damage and panthenol for deep hydration.
Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han
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“This airy foam is so satisfying to use and I love how gentle it is—it is, after all, fragrance-free—especially after I've gone to town breaking down my makeup with a cleansing balm or oil. It's a safe cleansing bet for anyone, especially sensitive skin.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: madecassoside, panthenol, green tea extract
- Who it's for: everyone
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Gel Cleanser: Cosrx Low pH Good Morning Gel Face Cleanser
Cosrx
Low pH Good Morning Gel Face Cleanser
Amazon
Nordstrom
Ulta Beauty
Han using Cosrx Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser
Sarah Han
Why it's worth it: For a cleanser that suits the needs of combination, oily, and acne-prone skin, you can't go wrong with Cosrx Low pH Good Morning Gel Face Cleanser. Tea tree oil and beta hydroxy acid (BHA) dive into pores, sweeping away pollutants, dirt, and oil for a deeper cleanse—ultimately, your skin will feel softer and smoother. Primrose oil balances exfoliation with hydration, so your skin is prepped for your subsequent products. And fear not about stripping your skin because this cleanser's pH hovers around 5.3 to 6.3.
Tester feedback from Han
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"I love using this cleanser on days when I'm wearing an all-out makeup look. My combination skin acculumates a lot of gunk in my T-zone so I appreciate something like this that will make sure every last inkling of makeup is gone and refresh my pores. I'm not the biggest fan of the medicinal-leaning scent but I can forgive that for something that's being promptly washed off. It's a long-standing favorite for a reason, a.k.a. a clean-as-heck face." —Sarah Han, commerce editor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: tea tree oil, BHA, primrose
- Who it's for: people with oily, acne-prone, and combination skin
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Powder Cleanser: Tirtir Hydro Boost Enzyme Powder Wash
Tirtir
Hydro Boost Enzyme Cleansing Powder
Amazon
StyleVana
Allure contributor Sarah Y. Wu using the Tirtir Hydro Boost Enzyme Cleansing Powder
Sarah Y. Wu
Why it's worth it: Enzymes exfoliate your skin by dissolving dead skin cells—but only on the surface level, so there's less potential for irritation. Tirtir's travel-friendly Hydro Boost Enzyme Cleansing Powder, infused with enzymes, probiotics, and mild PHA, is a dry powder that activates when you wet it. Formulated as a true cleanser (not a face scrub), it foams into a milky cleanser with just a few drops of water. Rice extract and probiotics help keep your skin moisturized, and while it's designed to clear buildup and refine pores, it does so with especially gentle ingredients that work for a wide range of skin types.
Tester feedback from Allure contributor Sarah Y. Wu
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"I have combination skin that's very dry and sensitive in my midface, but prone to excess oil and blackheads in my T-zone. I usually take a very targeted approach to exfoliants and make sure they only touch my T-zone to avoid irritating the rest of my face. But this cleanser is so gentle, I've found that it also works great as an allover face wash and exfoliant in one. Most powder cleansers I've used in the past turn into a sort of gritty paste texture when I wet them. Not this one! It transforms into a creamy, super smooth foam as soon as I add water. It doesn't feel like a face scrub; instead, the powdered enzymes lightly exfoliate and clear my pores so that my face feels baby-soft when I rinse it off." —Sarah Y. Wu, Allure contributor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: rice extract, enzymes, probiotics, PHA, mung bean powder
- Who it's for: normal, oily, combination, sensitive, and acne-prone skin
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Hydrating Toner: I'm From Rice Toner
I'm From
Rice Toner
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
Revolve
Han applying I’m From Rice Toner
Sarah Han
Why we love it: Sourced from the brown outer layer of rice, the star ingredient in I’m From Rice Toner (rice extract) provides long-lasting hydration and softens skin to pillowy-soft levels. Antioxidants like vitamin E and ferulic acid protect against environmental damage and stabilize other ingredients, while adenosine supports skin repair and barrier health, and niacinamide perks up your complexion. All skin types can benefit from this ultra-lightweight toner, day and night.
Tester feedback from Han
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"A hydrating toner or essence is a non-negotiable step of my daytime and nighttime routines. I'm From Rice Toner instantly plumps my skin, giving it a brighter, refreshed look and prepping it for the serums, moisturizers, and sunscreens to follow. Now that we're in the office four days a week, I can't be bothered to wear makeup every day—but at least my skin looks nice and glowy."
More to know
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- Key ingredients: rice extract, adenosine, niacinamide
- Who it's for: everyone, especially those with sensitive skin
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Exfoliating Toner: Innisfree Gentle Retinol Salicylic Daily Toner Pads
Innisfree
Gentle Retinol Salicylic Daily Toner Pads
Amazon
Sephora
Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying Innisfree Gentle Retinol Salicylic Daily Toner Pads
Christa Joanna Lee
Why it's worth it: Toner pads are ubiquitous in Korean skin care. They're easy to use, pack a concentrated amount of actives, and can double as a sheet mask—what's not to love? Innisfree’s Gentle Retinol Salicylic Daily Toner Pads star, as you can guess, retinol and salicylic acid, to sweep away pore-clogging debris and even out texture. The key, however, is the green tea soothing complex, cica, and allantoin, which minimize irritation and strengthen your barrier. To put it simply, these swipe-and-go pads strike the ideal balance between exfoliation and hydration.
Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee
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“I’ve been a fan of Innisfree’s Green Tea Enzyme Vitamin C Toner Pads for a while—they’re gentle yet brightening, and pair perfectly with my morning SPF routine. The K-beauty brand is well known for their sensitive skin-friendly formulas, so I knew the Gentle Retinol Salicylic Daily Toner Pads wouldn't freak out my skin. These retinol pads were (believe it or not) my first foray into retinol, and after two weeks of nightly use, I noticed my skin texture start to smooth out. Even though I don’t deal with breakouts, the combo of gentle retinol and salicylic acid made a visible difference in softer, more even skin.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer
More to know
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- Key ingredients: retinol, salicylic acid, green tea, cica, allantoin, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide
- Who it's for: anyone who wants an gentle intro into retinol
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Essence: Cosrx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence
Cosrx
Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence
Amazon
Nordstrom
Dermstore
Han applying the Coxrx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence
Sarah Han
Why it's worth it: A Korean beauty best-seller that's all over your FYP and actually worth the hype it's garnered? That's Cosrx's Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence. This mega-hydrator is chock-full of, you guessed it, snail mucin to soothe blemishes, brighten acne scars, and even out hyperpigmentation. While the gooey stuff accounts for 96% of the formula, you'll also find hyaluronic acid and allantoin to hydrate and strengthen the skin barrier, making it a great option if you're after the glass-skin look.
Tester feedback from Han
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"This is one of the first viral K-beauty products I tried all those (8ish?) years ago. While it fell off my radar for a while, I've been recently reminded how lovely and hydrating this formula is. The texture is so fun (and surprisingly not tacky seconds after applying) and it gives my skin lots of glow and bounce. I don't deal with a lot of blemishes and acne scars (knock on wood) but this is a really a star in that realm, especially when coupled with acne-targeting serums." —Sarah Han, commerce editor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: snail mucin, hyaluronic acid, allantoin
- Who it's for: everyone
- Fragrance-Free: yes
Best Vitamin C Serum: Dr. Althea Vitamin C Boosting Serum
Dr. Althea
Vitamin C Boosting Serum
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
Why it's worth it: Vitamin C has long been considered one of the gold-standard ingredients for brightening, as it decreases melanin formation, and subsequently, dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Dr. Althea is a rising star in the K-beauty world, and no product encompasses that as well as the Vitamin C Boosting Serum. (Okay, fine, the 365 Relief Cream is super popular, too.) This silky serum harnesses the power of Hippophae rhamnoides water (63%), otherwise known as sea buckthorn, which is rich in vitamin C—and extra gentle, to boot. But, if you're extremely weary of the active, Dr. Althea offers a Gentle Vitamin C Serum with 20% Hippophae rhamnoides water. Also in the mix is 2% tranexamic acid, which is another rockstar ingredient for fading dark spots. TL;DR: Brighter, more even-toned skin ahead.
Tester feedback from Han
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“I surprisingly haven't discovered many Korean vitamin C serums I like but Dr. Althea's is the exception. A true gem. The silky texture sinks in seamlessly with no greasy residue and, equally important, the scent is actually fresh and pleasant. (I can't deal with anything that smells like ‘hot dog water,’ period.) The packaging isn't opaque, however, so please keep this bottle away from sunlight to prevent oxidation. (Mine sits safely in my bathroom mirror cabinet.) The main form of vitamin C is 63% hippophae rhamnoides water, a.k.a. sea buckthorn water, which I find to be super soothing. I can't imagine my a.m. skin-care routine without it!” —Sarah Han, commerce editor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: Hippophae rhamnoides water (63%), niacinamide (5%), tranexamic acid (2%), cica
- Who it's for: everyone
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Hydrating Serum: Torriden Dive In Low-Molecular Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Torriden
Dive In Low-Molecular Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Amazon
Sephora
Han applying the Torriden Dive In Low-Molecular Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Sarah Han
Why it's worth it: Nothing makes a splash quite like Torriden's popular Dive In Low-Molecular Hyaluronic Acid Serum, which is as refreshing and hydrating as its name implies. It goes all-out with not one, not two, but five molecular sizes of hyaluronic acid—each of which can reach a different layer of skin to plump and smooth it from the inside out. Its watery texture doesn't leave any residue, making it a seamless step ahead of moisturizer, not to mention great for layering with other serums.
Tester feedback from Han
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"This isn't any run-of-the-mill HA serum. No, it has a 5D Hyaluronic Acid Complex, which translates to five types of HA molecules that penetrate your skin at different levels for instant and long-lasting hydration. It's a serum I'd recommend to just about anyone—the silky textures dries down almost immediately and my skin always feels bouncier with each application." —Sarah Han, commerce editor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, witch hazel, madecassoside
- Who it's for: dry and dehydrated skin
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Retinol Serum: Iope Retinol Super Bounce Serum
Iope
Retinol Super Bounce Serum
Amazon
Soko Glam
Han applying the Iope Retinol Super Bounce Serum
Sarah Han
Why it's worth it: If you're looking to start retinol, the gold-standard ingredient for speeding skin cell turnover and boosting collagen production, but are worried about irritating side effects, we've got you. Despite the stacked retinoid lineup, Iope's Retinol Super Bounce Serum—which is inspired by radio frequency treatments—is extremely gentle because it incorporates encapsulated, time-released retinol as well as granactive retinoid, which doesn't need to undergo conversions, thus reducing irritation. Additionally, squalane, shea butter, cypress leaf, and lactobacillus ferment lysate act as buffers against irritation and flaking, helping to strengthen your barrier. The result is a dream for people who want to guard their skin against signs of aging.
Editor's tip
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This serum has been through 10 iterations since its conception almost three decades ago, so you know it's been thoroughly tested and perfected. (Korean brands, if you didn't already know, are always reformulating and improving formulas based on the latest technologies.)
More to know
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- Key ingredients: pure retinol, encapsulated retinol, granactive retinoid, bio-selentoid, lacobacillus ferment lysate, shea butter, squalane, cypress leaf
- Who it's for: anyone (in their late 20s or higher) concerned with signs of aging
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Post-Procedure Serum: Rejuran Healer Turnover Ampoule
Rejuran
Healer Turnover Ampoule
Amazon
Han applying Rejuran Healer Turnover Ampoule
Sarah Han
Why it's worth it: Forget plant stem cells. The primary active ingredient in Rejuran Healer Turnover Ampoule is a growth factor derived from wild salmon, says Julie Chung, MD, cofounder of T3 Micro and board-certified ophthalmologist at Advanced Vision Care in Los Angeles, California, who notes that it's all the rage in Korea right now. "It can be injected into the skin, but is also thought to be effective topically. It increases skin elasticity, decreases wrinkles, and improves hydration," Dr. Chung says. "I've been using this product for about three weeks now and do feel that my skin is now quite supple—but time will tell if it actually makes my face look more lifted!"
Editor's tip
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It can be used after laser resurfacing and chemical peels to speed up your recovery and reduce scarring.
More to know
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- Key ingredients: blackberry leaf extract, licorice extract, adenosine
- Who it's for: anyone who wants to address multiple concerns.
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Ampoule: Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Intensive Ampoule
Skin1004
Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Intensive Ampoule
Ulta Beauty
Contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai applying the Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Intensive Ampoule
Deanna Pai
Why it's worth it: Skin1004 brings the powers of Centella asiatica straight from the island of Madagascar to your skin-care routine. The Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Intensive Ampoule is packed with soothing cica to calm and repair your skin, plus probiotics to strengthen your barrier, ceramides to drench your skin in hydration, and peptides to keep things firm and bouncy. It’s lightweight, fast-absorbing, and perfect for tackling redness, dryness, dullness, and acne, as contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai attests below.
Tester feedback from contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai
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“This soothed my breakout-prone skin and even seemed to take down the redness of an active zit. After applying this before bed, I woke up to brighter, clearer skin." —Deanna Pai, contributing commerce editor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: Centella asiatica extract, madecassic acid, asiaticoside, asiatic acid, ceramides
- Who it's for: people with sensitive or acne-prone skin
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Body Wash: Some By Mi AHA-BHA-PHA 30 Days Miracle Acne Body Cleanser
Some by Mi
AHA-BHA-PHA 30 Days Miracle Acne Body Cleanser
Amazon
Sokoglam
Why it's worth it: This isn't just any body wash—Some By Mi’s AHA-BHA-PHA 30 Body Cleanser is formulated with salicylic, mandelic, and citric acids to unclog pores and smooth uneven texture—ideal for anyone who deals with annoying body acne. While it sounds harsh, given the trifecta of acids involved, it's surprisingly gentle—a calming trio of tea tree extract, eucalyptus, and truecica minimizes irritation. The same ingredients lend themselves to a refreshing, spa-like herbal scent. To sum it up, this is a necessary addition to your everything shower.
More to know
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- Key ingredients: AHA, BHA, PHA, Truecica, Houttuynia cordata extract
- Who it's for: people with acne
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Body Lotion: Illiyoon Ceramide Ato Concentrate Cream
Illiyoon
Ceramide Ato Concentrate Cream
Amazon
Olive Young
Former digital beauty editor Devon Abelman applying Illiyoon Ceramide Ato Concentrate Cream
Devon Abelman
Why it’s worth it: If Illiyon isn’t already on your radar, allow this all-purpose formula to be your introduction to one of Korea’s top body-care brands. The Illiyoon Ceramide Ato Concentrate Cream provides even the most sensitive skin with moisture and irritation relief. The decadent nourishing cream contains barrier-repairing ceramides to help keep your skin feeling hydrated all day long, says board-certified dermatologist Yunyoung Claire Chang, MD. “As we mature, our skin’s ceramide level decreases, so it’s important to replace this [loss] with ceramide-containing skin-care products,” she adds. We also love how you can choose from several sizes, including a travel-friendly tube and a hefty tub.
Tester feedback from contributor Devon Abelman
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"My legs are a hot spot for eczema, so I have to be extremely careful about the body-care products I use or I will be up all night scratching at my skin. Illiyoon’s Ceramide Ato Concentrate Cream is a no-brainer with its fragrance-free formula that blankets skin in comforting moisture and never annoyingly transfers onto clothes." —Devon Abelman, contributor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: ceramides, ginseng root water, soybean oil
- Who it's for: everyone, even those with sensitive and reactive skin
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Moisturizer for Oily Skin: Belif The True Cream Aqua Bomb
Belif
The True Cream Aqua Bomb
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
Revolve
Allure senior director of audience development Lexi Herrick applying Belif’s The True Cream Aqua Bomb
Lexi Herrick
Why it's worth it: An intensely soothing formula that's perfect for sensitive skin, Belif The True Cream Aqua Bomb is powered by a blend of inflammation-fighting tiger grass, oat kernel extract, and comfrey leaf. It provides an instant burst of coolness upon application, but the benefits of skin-plumping glycerin and squalane last for the entire day. This gel-like cream feels like a refreshing drink that skin slurps up, making it great for year-round use, but especially during warmer weather. "During the summer, The True Cream Aqua Bomb's consistency is a hydrating, lightweight dream come true," reports one tester. "The gel-like formula absorbs in seconds, leaving skin feeling instantly refreshed."
Tester feedback from senior director of audience development Lexi Herrick
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“Belif's Aqua Bomb gives me the experience of drinking ice-cold water after being outside in the hot sun—it truly breathes life and hydration into my skin instantly! I love the light and airy texture, like a cloud absorbing into my cheeks. It preps my skin incredibly well for makeup or to wear naturally.”—Lexi Herrick, senior director of audience development
More to know
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- Key ingredients: plantin, ceramides, shea butter
- Who it's for: those with combination or oily skin
- Fragrance-free: no
Best Moisturizer for Mature Skin: Sulwhasoo Concentrated Ginseng Rejuvenating Cream
Sulwhasoo
Concentrated Ginseng Rejuvenating Cream
Amazon
Nordstrom
Why it's worth it: Sulwhasoo's Concentrated Ginseng Rejuvenating Cream contains a proprietary Ginsenomics blend, which features ginseng in the form of saponin, peptides, roots, and flowers to visibly hydrate and lift skin. For the unfamiliar, ginseng is a do-it-all ingredient that addresses fine lines and wrinkles by boosting circulation, which then ramps up collagen synthesis, leading to firmer, plumper skin. Ginseng also guards your skin against environmental stressors like free radicals that could lead to the formation of fine lines and wrinkles, as well as dark spot-causing pollutants, as explained by New York City-based board-certified dermatologist Shari Marchbein, MD.
Editor's tip
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Ginseng's gentle profile makes it a great option for beneath the eyes. David Kim, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Idriss Dermatology in New York City, says that Concentrated Ginseng Rejuvenating Eye Cream is ideal for anyone who needs extra hydration around their eye area.
More to know
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- Key ingredients: ginseng peptides, squalane, Korean ginseng actives, vitamin C derivative
- Who it's for: mature or very dry skin
- Fragrance-free: no
Best Retinol Eye Cream: Revive Eye Serum: Ginseng + Retinal
Beauty of Joseon
Revive Eye Serum
Amazon
Olive Young
Han applying Beauty of Joseon Revive Eye Serum: Ginseng + Retinal
Sarah Han
Why it's worth it: One of the buzziest K-beauty products, full-stop, is Beauty of Joseon's Revive Eye Cream Ginseng + Retinal, whose fans include board-certified dermatologist Hee Jin Koh, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New Jersey, and cosmetic chemist Ramón Pagán. "I love the ultra-nourishing and soothing formula with the added (gentle) kick of retinal," Pagán tells Allure. The anti-inflammatory properties of ginseng help minimize puffiness, while liposome-encapsulated (and therefore stabilized) retinal brightens and smooths. According to Dr. Koh, retinal "only requires a one-step conversion to the active form of retinoic acid, unlike retinol, which requires a two-step conversion." In other words, it's more effective and less irritating than your traditional retinol.
Plus, at $17, it's way more affordable than many retinol eye creams out there. Don't just take it from me. It also has a stamp of approval from our sister publication, Allure Korea, as a 2023 Best of Beauty editor's pick.
Tester feedback from Han
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"To use eye cream or not? I think eye creams are a ‘nice-to-have’ skin-care step—and if I reach for an eye cream at all, it'll be a retinol to reap those fine-line-minimizing and tightening benefits. Again, I'm 32 and haven't experienced fine lines around the eyes or generally sagging undereyes, but skin care is, with a lot of emphasis, all about consistent use and prevention. Beauty of Joseon's Revive Eye Serum: Ginseng + Retinal has a lightweight, custardy-gel texture that absorbs almost immediately and makes my undereyes look a tad brighter and less puffy the next morning. Formula-wise, stabilized retinal is super gentle and minimizes irritation, while ginseng brightens and boosts circulation, and glycerin supports the skin barrier." —Sarah Han, commerce editor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: ginseng, retinal, niacinamide
- Who it's for: all skin types, so long as you can tolerate retinoids
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Retinol-Free Eye Cream: Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Bakuchiol Eye Cream
Haruharu
Black Rice Bakuchiol Eye Cream
Amazon
Nordstrom
Why it's worth it: If retinol is too harsh for your skin, dial it back with HaruHaru Wonder's Black Rice Bakuchiol Eye Cream, which replaces the active with bakuchiol. As a refresher, "Bakuchiol functions similarly to a retinol, increasing cell turnover thereby stimulating collagen production and diminishing signs of aging such as fine lines, wrinkles, skin laxity, and overall photodamage," Sejal Shah, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, previously explained. This gentle, quick-absorbing formula is spiked with fermented black rice and bamboo shoot bark extract to promote a brighter and even skin tone, while madecassoside works to soothe and prevent irritation. Cho is a fan of this Korean eye cream and told us that it helps treat her milia.
Editor's tip
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If you love the eye cream, scope out Haruharu Wonder's entire black rice lineup—including the Black Rice Moisture Deep Cleansing Oil and Black Rice Hyaluronic Toner.
More to know
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- Key ingredients: black rice, bamboo shoot extract, bakuchiol
- Who it's for: everyone
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Chemical Sunscreen: Then I Met You Essence Light Sunscreen SPF 50 PA+++
Then I Met You
Essence Light Sunscreen SPF 50 PA+++
Amazon
Soko Glam
Sephora
Associate beauty director Sarah Kinonen applying Then I You Essence Light Sunscreen SPF 50 PA+++
Sarah Kinonen
Why it's worth it: If you're in the market for a hydrating sunscreen with a capital H, we're about to make your day. Then I Met You's Essence Light Sunscreen SPF 50 PA+++ feels airy going on as it does after absorbing into the skin. Thanks to ingredients such as ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and provitamin B5, this chemical SPF leaves behind a dewy, radiant finish. Even if you don't have dry skin, it's worth a try, as our editors will attest.
Tester feedback from associate beauty director Sarah Kinonen
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"Technically, I have combination skin, but catch me mid-day and you'll see me shine from across the room. While the Then I Met You Essence Light Sunscreen SPF 50 PA+++ doesn't sop up oil or even prevent it, it does play into my daily gleam in the best, most helpful way by giving my skin dehydrated much-needed moisture (in the form of ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and panthenol) as it protects it. I've gone through two, maybe three of these tubes already—it's the best!" —Sarah Kinonen, associate beauty director
More to know
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- Key ingredients: avobenzone (3%), homosalate (9%), octisalate (4.5%), octocrylene (5%), ceramides, fermented sake, hyaluronic acid, provitamin B5
- Who it's for: people with dry skin (or anyone who doesn't mind looking glowy!)
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Mineral Sunscreen: Koolsol by Knours Ultra Light Invisible Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
Koolsol by Knours
Ultra Light Invisible Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
Han applying Koolsol by Knours Ultra Light Invisible Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
Sarah Han
Why it's worth it: Whatever your preference, there's a Korean sunscreen for you. For those who prefer mineral sunscreens, whether that's because they have sensitive skin or are pregnant/nursing, Koolsol by Knours Ultra Light Invisible Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 meets all of the marks—including, surprisingly, leaving a glowy finish. Let us explain: This hydrating, serum-like formula is packed to the brim with nourishing ingredients such as cica, snow mushroom, aloe, niacinamide, and panthenol. Be sure to give the container a hearty shake before application, and you're golden.
Tester feedback from Han
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"I'm so impressed by how glowy and fast-absorbing this is. I always hesitate when it comes to mineral sunscreens but Koolsol by Knours Ultra Light Invisible Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 is a total green flag. It feels and wears almost identically compared my favorite chemical sunscreens (Korean or not!). Translation: I don't need to spend 30-45 seconds fully blending it in." —Sarah Han, commerce editor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: zinc oxide (10%), cica, snow mushroom, aloe, niacinamide, panthenol
- Who it's for: everyone
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Sunscreen Patch: Franz Naked Sunshield Peptide Patch
Franz
Naked Sunshield Peptide Patch
Amazon
Why it's worth it: Dr. Chung has used lasers, retinol, hydroquinone, niacinamide, or some combination of the above to manage her melasma, a condition exacerbated by sun exposure. That's why she turns to the Franz Naked Sunshield Peptide Patch when she's outdoors. "In addition to sunscreen, I'll wear UV peptide patches when I play tennis to protect my upper cheeks from further UV exposure," she says. "It's a clear patch that more effectively blocks UV rays—and although I look a bit crazy on the tennis courts, it saves me from laser treatments in the future!" It's thin, breathable, and has a cooling effect on skin.
Editor's tip
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Since it has to be applied to clean skin to adhere, stick this on first and then follow up with moisturizer, sunscreen, and makeup.
More to know
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- Key ingredients: peptides, glycerin, hyaluronic acid
- Who it's for: people looking to target sun protection
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Overnight Sheet Mask: Biodance Bio Collagen Real Deep Mask
Biodance
Bio Collagen Real Deep Mask
Amazon
Soko Glam
Christa Joanna Lee
Why it's worth it: Whether you leave it on all night or call it quits around the 3 to 4-hour mark (hello, work-from-home days!), Biodance's Bio-Collagen Real Deep Mask is one tall glass of water for your skin. Using ultra-low molecular weight collagen and low molecular weight hyaluronic acid (otherwise known as oligo HA) means deeper penetration of hydrating, plumping goodness. Y. Claire Chang, MD, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist at UnionDerm in New York City, confirms this mask's popularity, adding, "It leaves the skin more glowy and hydrated for hours after application."
Tester's feedback from contributor Christa Joanna Lee
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"I love this mask for both overnight use and daytime self-care breaks ( when I don’t have any Zoom meetings). The jelly-like sheet can be a little delicate and prone to tearing, but once it sets, it clings so well that a few hours in, it’s a tad hard to move your face, which is exactly why its so effective to lock in the formula. By morning, my skin feels deeply hydrated and looks gorgeously glowy, making it totally worth the effort to stay still in my sleep.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer
More to know
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- Key ingredients: ultra-low molecular weight collagen, galactomyces, oligo hyaluronic acid, allantoin
- Who it's for: everyone
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Quick Sheet Mask: Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Intensive Soothing Repair Serum Mask
Dr. Jart+
Cicapair Intensive Soothing Repair Serum Face Mask
Amazon
Sephora
Dall’Asen applying Dr. Jart’s Cicapair Sensitive Skin Serum Mask
Nicola Dall'Asen
Why it's worth it: Dr. Jart+ is well-versed in sensitive skin care. For many (including us!), this K-beauty brand was the introduction to the wonderful world of Centella asiatica, otherwise known as cica. Whether it's a color-changing cream or a cooling nighttime gel-cream, you never have to worry about your redness flaring up—rather, your entire complexion will look soothed and plumped. The Cicapair Sensitive Skin Serum Mask is no exception, packing in cica, allantoin, madecassic acid, panthenol, and peptides for the ultimate calming, 10-to-20-minute experience. The gel-like cellulose texture is already made with the brand's proprietary CoolSonic technology, but feel free to pop it in the fridge for an extra dose of cryotherapy.
Tester feedback from Dall'Asen
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"One thing about me is that my skin is, like, super red almost all the time, and it makes putting on makeup so much harder than it needs to be. That's why, before a special occasion, I always slap on a Dr. Jart+ Cicapair sheet mask while I'm doing my skin prep. The cold compress (I keep mine in my fridge), soothing serum, and extra occlusion always leave my skin plump, hydrated, and most importantly, soothed." —senior news editor Nicola Dall'Asen
More to know
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- Key ingredients: cica, allantoin, peptides
- Benefits: cooling, redness-reducing
- Fragrance-free: yes
- Mask count: single or 5-pack
- Leave-on time: 15 minutes
Best Night Cream: Hanyul Yuja Vitamin Sleeping Mask
Hanyul
Yuja Vitamin Sleeping Mask
Amazon
Soko Glam
Han applying the Hanyul Yuja Vitamin Sleeping Mask
Sarah Han
Why it's worth it: For centuries, Koreans have loved yuja (a.k.a. yuzu) for its health and vitality-boosting powers, and now Hanyul’s Yuja Vitamin Sleeping Mask is here to give your skin the same TLC. Packed with vitamin C-rich yuja extract, this overnight mask works overtime while you sleep, brightening dull skin and evening out tone. The lightweight gel texture melts right in, so you’ll wake up with hydrated, glowy skin—no greasy feeling in sight. And the fresh, citrusy scent is such a mood booster.
Tester feedback from Han
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“In the clip above, you can see me mouthing the words, 'It smells so good.' Bbecause there are six yuja fruits (rich in vitamins B, C, E, and P, whew) in a single jar. Aromatherapy aside, this jelly leave-on mask immediately plumps my skin and I wake up looking a little more fresh-faced and less dull.” —Sarah Han, commerc editor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: yuja, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid
- Who it's for: people with dry, dehydrated skin
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Lip Treatment: Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask
Laneige
Lip Sleeping Mask
Amazon
Trakoshis applying the Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask
Angela Trakoshis
Why it's worth it: Parched lips are no match for Laneige's Lip Sleeping Mask, which has racked up three Allure Readers' Choice Awards in 2021, 2022, and 2023. It coats cracked lips in moisturizing and protective ingredients, including shea butter, vitamin C, and glycerin. After one use, our tester's lips were "soft, supple, (kissable, if you will), and plump," she said. “What's more: Those tiny lip lines I don't love on myself appeared visibly diminished.” In case you weren't already sold, it smells like fresh berries. Laneige has tons of scrumptious flavors—both permanent and limited-edition—such as Gummy Bear, Vanilla, and Watermelon Pop.
Tester feedback from Trakoshis
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“There's a reason it's a top-seller on Amazon. It moisturizes lips for hours on end—no reapplication needed. I apply the smallest amount of this stuff on my dry lips at night and am guaranteed to wake up with soft, hydrated lips in the morning.” Angela Trakoshis, former shopping market editor
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- Key ingredients: shea butter, glycerin, vitamin C
- Who it's for: everyone
- Fragrance-free: no
Best Splurge: Sulwhasoo First Care Activating Serum
Sulwhasoo
First Care Activating Serum
Nordstrom
Sephora
Pai applying Amorepacific Vintage Single Extract Essence
Deanna Pai
Why it's worth it: The sixth edition of Sulwhasoo's First Care Activating Serum is better than ever, thanks to the addition of 500-hour aged ginseng to help boost circulation, brighten, and prevent environmental aggressors that lead to the formation of fine lines and wrinkles. TL;DR It's very common for Korean skin-care products to go through different iterations over the years, in accordance with new research and innovations. Yes, it's technically called a serum, but it's meant to be used more like a toner, right after your cleanser. Han loves using this plumping serum-toner—filled with Solomon's seal and Japanese lily—whenever her skin is feeling a tad tight after her double cleanse—the ideal antidote.
Tester feedback from Pai
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"My combination skin is prone to acne, so I don't always go full-throttle with moisturizing—and as a result, it doesn't always get the hydration it needs. That's where this comes in. It's billed as a serum but looks, feels, and functions like an essence. Even more importantly, though, it balances my skin, leaving it hydrated and dewy but never oily." —Deanna Pai, contributing commerce editor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: ginseng, Solomon's seal, lotus, white lily, honey, madecassoside, ascorbic acid
- Who it's for: everyone, especially those addressing dullness
- Fragrance-free: no
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Korean skin-care routine?
There's no one (or right!) way to use Korean skin care. Despite the popularity of the 10-step Korean skin-care routine, you don't need to go all-out every night to reap the benefits.
"While some still adhere to [the 10-step routine], many prefer a more streamlined approach with three to five products, focusing on functionality and efficacy," Cho explains. The three basic steps remain the same: cleanser, moisturizer, and SPF (during the day). If you're unsure how to build your skin-care routine—using Korean products or otherwise—start with the fundamentals before adding the good-to-have steps, like toner and serum.
A huge benefit of Korean skin care is that many products are formulated to be multifunctional, combining steps while saving you time and money. Laneige's Cream Skin Toner & Moisturizer, an Allure Best of Beauty Award winner, is one such example. This milky formula soothes and softens skin post-cleanse while locking in moisture, thanks to peptides and ceramides.
What are some trending ingredients and treatments in Korean skin care?
The landscape of the Korean skin-care industry changes by what feels like the day—which is to say, the list of trending ingredients and treatments changes rapidly. However, Cho calls out PDRN (short for polydeoxyribonucleotide), a DNA chain extracted from salmon "that is a 95% match to that of humans," as we previously reported. "PDRN has captured attention across pharmaceutical, medical, and cosmetic industries in South Korea," Cho notes. While she says it's "lauded for its tissue regeneration properties and is a popular cosmeceutical injection," you can find it in some topical products, such as Iope PDRN Caffeine Shot Serum. What's more: "The emergence of vegan PDRN, extracted from wild ginseng, caters to the growing demand for plant-based and cruelty-free skin-care options," Cho adds.
Microneedling treatments, which utilize fine needles to puncture the skin, are also big in South Korea because they "stimulate natural healing and collagen production," Cho explains. Don't be surprised as you start seeing more topicals like VT Cosmetics' Cica Reedle Shot and Medicube's One Day Exosome Shot 2000 popping up on your TikTok FYP that incorporate a much milder form of microneedling into your everyday routine.
Can I trust buying Korean skin-care products online?
Korean skin-care brands are most readily available on Amazon so, as with anything else you buy on the site, you need to do your due diligence surrounding retailers and sellers. Amazon stock, pricing, and listed sellers can be volatile, so at Allure, we don't include any products that are not sold by either Amazon or the brand itself at the time of writing. (Bear in mind: The "seller" is sometimes listed as the parent company. For example, Dear Klairs products are sold by Wishtrend.) There are other options, of course. Soko Glam is a stateside e-retailer that meticulously curates its selection, and then there are Asia-based retailers such as Yesstyle and Olive Young that will most likely take longer to ship.
Amazon or not, one big exception to this online shopping discourse is Korean sunscreens. "The reality is that [many sunscreens from popular brands such as] Beauty of Joseon and Round Lab are not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which is why they're not sold on Soko Glam—since we import [our products] into the U.S. and have to go through FDA checks," Cho explains. "I caution people buying off of Amazon, as it is rife with counterfeit products since Amazon U.S. would not be able to sell these either (it's a matter of import)." Take heed!
Meet the experts
- Charlotte Cho, cofounder of Soko Glam and Then I Met You
- Julie Chung, MD, cofounder of T3 Micro and board-certified ophthalmologist at Advanced Vision Care in Los Angeles, California
- Claire Chang, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at New York City's Union Square Dermatology
- David Kim, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Idriss Dermatology in New York City and founder of Lightsaver
- Sejal Shah, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City
How we test and review products
When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that’s included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.
For our list of the best Korean skin-care products, we considered each product’s performance across five primary categories: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, fragrance, texture, and product wear. Every product was determined to have excelled in each category by our editorial team, which is composed of in-house writers and editors as well as contributors—along with special consideration from dermatologists. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.
Our staff and testers
A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors—in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon—is essential to reaching that goal.
After all, can we really say a skin-care product is the "best" for people over 50 if the only testers we’ve solicited opinions from folks who have yet to hit 30? Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if it’s never been tested on curls? We’re proud that our staff spans a wide range of ages, skin tones, hair textures, genders, and backgrounds, which means that we are able to fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet.
