Korean skincare is having a moment and it is a fad that refuses to fade away, with good reason. From natural, to magical secret ingredients that promise to you give you that ‘k-Glow’, K-beauty is surrounded by myths that we are here to debunk today!
So, let’s get straight to it.
Myth: Korean skincare works only for Asian skin.
Fact: Believe it or not, skincare concerns are universal across different races and ethnic backgrounds. From oily skin, to dry, patchy, acne, and even dark spots, Koreans too have similar skin concerns that the rest of the world has. Hence, Korean skincare is for everybody and every skin type. Like with any skincare product, you need to figure out what works best for your skin type. Similarly with Korean skincare take the time to learn about the different products and ingredients available and choose according to what works for you.
Myth: You need to strictly follow the 15-20 step Korean skincare routine
Fact: The 15-20 step skincare routine might be the hallmark of K-beauty, but that is not really the case. Koreans approach to skincare understanding that the skin changes every day, just like your body. On some days your skin might feel clogged, in which case you may choose to do a double cleanse. Whereas on other occasions you are more focused on hydrating your skin. This kind of fluid approach to skincare allows you to learn more about your skin while also enabling you to address your skincare needs as and when they arrive.
Myth: Men and women need different Korean skincare products
Fact: While some men do have larger pores and oily skin compared to women, in practice skin needs differ from person to person and gender does not always dictate your skin needs. Hence do not be surprised if you find products that are specifically marketed to a gender with exactly the same ingredients as the rest. More often than not the biggest difference between men and women’s skincare products is it packaging and name!
Myth: Korean skincare contain ‘Secret’ ingredients
Fact: Yes and no. Yes, because Korean beauty brands do use some very unique ingredients like snail mucin or bee venom making them more effective than other skincare products. No because there is nothing secretive about them as many of these ingredients have been used in traditional medicine for centuries. Also, Korean beauty is known for their innovative ingredients and formulations, which are backed by science and research.
Myth: Korean products are a magic cure-all for every skin concern
Fact: While Korean skincare is very effective, especially with their use of science backed ingredients and formulations, they are not a magic cure. Like with any skincare routine or products, the key is consistency. Korean beauty products are designed to be used consistently as part of an extensive skincare routine that involves cleansing, toning, moisturising, protecting etc. So, if you want to experience skincare magic, you need to be prepared to commit to pampering and taking care of your skin.
Now that we have set the record straight and busted some myths, we have curated a list of must try Korean skincare products.
CosRx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence
Have you really tried Korean skincare if you have not tried this product out? This lightweight power essence with snail mucin is popular for its hydrating and resurfacing property. You can apply it post toner and cleanser to help fade dark spots, improve hydration, and smoothen out your skin texture. Trust us, this product will not disappoint.
This rich, silky, and luxurious lip mask has all the goodness of antioxidant-rich Berry Mix Complex, Vitamin C, coconut oil, shea and murumuru butter. We love it for its ability to leave your lips feeling smooth and nourished.
Saturday Skin Yuzu Vitamin C Sleep Mask
This overnight sleep mask is a great addition to your nighttime routine to boost your beauty sleep. The gel textured mask is enriched with antioxidant-rich yuzu, niacinamide and retinol. Your skin will feel rejuvenated overnight, while also providing protection from environmental stressors.
Missha Time Revolution Artemisia Treatment Essence
This concentrated essence has 100% artemisia extract (mugwort). Apart being extremely hydrating for the skin, it also helps reduce any redness especially for people with sensitive skin.
Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum
This serum is designed keeping in mind acne prone skin. It contains propolis extract and niacinamide which helps soothe stressed skin and brighten your skin complexion. The serums honey like texture that leaves a subtle glow of moisture without being oily or sticky.
This brightening rice mask is made of rice from Yeoju, Korea retaining all its natural rich nutrients. It helps gently remove dead skin cells and impurities leaving your skin smoother and clearer.
Thank You Farmer Sun Project Light Sun Essence
This is a refreshingly new take on sunscreen that gets absorbed quickly in the skin with a matte finish. It is powered by ultraviolet protection, aloe vera extract, lotus flower water and soybean lipids. The mixture of these soothing ingredients helps repair the skin barrier while minimizing pores.
Korean beauty products are supported by science and study, not merely a transitory fad. It’s crucial to keep in mind that Korean beauty products contain actual components with advantages that have been scientifically verified, even though some myths about them may still exist. You can get healthy, bright skin by comprehending the science underlying Korean beauty products and putting them into a regular skincare routine.
