Whether you want to wow your beauty-obsessed bestie or are just looking to switch up your skincare stocking stuffers, know that anything with a “made in Korea” tag is considered a score. Labeled cult finds among the beauty set just up until this year, Korean beauty products exploded stateside in 2014 (you can now buy ’em at Urban Outfitters and Target!), and now with the array of choices close at hand, including remedies packed with ancient ingredients and eye-catching K-Pop pigments in beyond-quirky packaging, it’s hard to know where to even start. So we’re making your beauty overhaul easier: just scroll through to find the best Korean counterpart to the want on your beauty wish list. Brighter skin? Bolder brows? More kissable lips? All that and more is covered with these 10 skin and makeup must-haves that finally give you the inside scoop on how Korean girls keep their skin so fresh and flawless.
1. Be the Skin White Waterfall Serum ($39): Traditional Asian botanicals like green tea and mushrooms enhance your natural glow and clarify your skin tone. Use *before* you apply your moisturizer — you want to seal in the active ingredients so they can get to work boosting your skin’s radiance.
If you want to combat wrinkles, try…
2. Missha Super Aqua Cell Renew Snail Cream Set ($45): Snail extract is considered a natural wonder for rehydrating and repairing damaged skin. After cleansing, apply the treatment first, then follow with moisturizer and cream to improve the effects of aging.
If you want softer lips, try…
3. AmorePacific Moisture Bound Lip Treatment ($35): This long-lasting lip formula combines bamboo sap, green tea and red ginseng to revive dry lips while protecting against UV damage. Consider this eight-hour replenishing treatment a spa in a bottle.
If you want to beautify while you zzz, try…
4. Dr. Jart+ Premium Firming Sleep Mask ($48): Sleep masks are a must in the Korean beauty world. This leave-on number works overnight to lock in essential nutrients, restore hydration and strengthen elasticity, all while Korean medicinal herbs expel toxins and promote fresh skin.
If you want to boost your complexion, try…
5. Dark Knight Deep Cleansing Black Oil ($14): Made with black currant, black beans and black truffles, this deep-penetrating face wash busts blackheads and washes away daily dirt to gently but thoroughly purify your complexion.
If you want no-fuss, flawless skin, try…
6. Laneige BB Cushion ($34): Glide on this 5-in-1 BB cream whenever you want to even and enhance your complexion. The air cushion applicator ensures you’re using the right amount of product, which cools and hydrates upon application.
If you want bold brows, try…
7. Choco Choco Brow Mascara ($22): Get big, multi-dimensional brows in just one swipe with this brow mascara that contains luxe ingredients like white pearl and diamond ruby powder as well as ultra moisturizing honey extract and birch sap. Sculpt away with this sweat and smudge-proof formula that leaves your brows looking completely natural.
If you want to look awake, even when hungover, try…
8. TONYMOLY Panda’s Dream So Cool Eye Stick ($10): De-puff your eyes instantly with this moisturizing gel stick that revitalizes tired peepers with a stimulating cooling sensation. Apply during that 3PM work coma or the morning after you partied hardy for the quickest #wokeuplikethis makeover ever.
If you want a dewy glow, try…
9. Peripera Ah Much Real My Cushion Blusher ($16): The cushion applicator on this creamy blush makes blending a breeze and on-the-go application easier than ever. Its ultra-hydrating formula will leave your cheeks dewy for that ultimate glossy glow.
If you want a lip color to last all party long, try…
10. Clio Lipnicure ($26): This hyper-pigmented, waterproof lip tint might be the most kiss-proof lip color ever. Have just-as-bold lips at the end of the day thanks to its strong matte formula, all while rose hip, argan and jojoba oil work their hydrating magic.
What Korean beauty products are you obsessed with? Name drop your fave products and brands in the comments below.
