35 Top-Rated Korean Skincare Products On The Market – 2023
Care for your skin the Korean way with these enriching and moisturizing skin care products.
Dr. Farhaad RiyazMD, FAAD, FACMS
Expertise: Dermatology
Experience: 9 years
Dr. Farhaad Riyaz is a US-based dermatologist and an authority on skin cancer, ethnic skin, general dermatology, laser medicine, and non-invasive cosmetics. He has been in private practice since July 2018 and is a member of the AAD and ASDS... more
Ramona SinhaCertified Skin Care Coach
Expertise: Skin Care & Hair Care
Experience: 11 years
Ramona is an editor at StyleCraze with 11 years of experience in writing and editing. She has authored over 200 articles on skin and hair care. She graduated from the University of Calcutta, West Beng... more
Shiboli Chakraborti Certified Skin Care Coach
Expertise: Skin Care & Hair Care
Experience: 4 years
Shiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce edito... more
Image: Shutterstock
The best Korean skin care products are the new rage in the beauty industry. While K-pop is winning the hearts of teenagers, Korean beauty products are inspiring skin care enthusiasts. This is because Koreans have the glass skin that we all desire. Therefore their skin care routines have become a hot topic worldwide. Their multi-step beauty regimen involving double cleansing and beauty products have influenced several beauticians and brands.
If you are a fan of K-beauty and want to get your hands on some of their best products, we have got you covered. Swipe up and explore the list of the 35 best-rated Korean skin care products.
In This Article
The 35 Bestselling Korean Skin Care Products Of 2023
1. Best Anti-Inflammatory Formula:Dr.G Brightening Peeling Gel
Image: Dr.g Product Claims:
Dr.G Brightening Peeling Gel is a top-rated Korean beauty product. It is a gentle exfoliant that helps remove dead skin cells. It gives you a radiant complexion without drying out your skin. The natural moisture-rich cellulose in this formula keeps your skin hydrated. To find out more about this product, watch this YouTuber’s review video.
Pros -
- Contains anti-inflammatory ingredients
- Suitable for all skin types
- Rich in vitamins C and E
- Paraben-free
- Gentle on sensitive skin
- Dermatologically tested
- Affordable
- Pleasant fragrance
Cons
None
2. Best For Wrinkles:DONGINBI Red Ginseng Moisture and Balancing Skin Care Routine
Image: Donginbi Keep your skin hydrated, soft, and young with the DONGINBI Red Ginseng Moisture and Balancing Skin Care Routine Kit. The set includes an emulsion, an essence, a cream, and a softener. The kit also includes travel-sized packs of the emulsion and softener. The kit has red ginseng water and vinegar as their key ingredients that helps diminish wrinkles, fine lines, prevent loss of skin elasticity,and helps get rid of uneven skin tone. In addition, they have a natural scent derived from red ginseng root extract.
Pros - Fight wrinkles
- Lightweight
- Easy to use
- Non-greasy
Cons
None
3. Best Paraben-Free Formula: Acropass Trouble Cure
Image: Maccaron Is acne bothering you? This innovative acne patch can help! It received the Forbes 2014’s Most Innovative Beauty Product Award. The patch is easy to use and developed with DAB micro-needle technology. This helps in delivering ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and niacinamide to the deep layers of your skin and speeding up the healing process. Check out this review for a detailed understanding about the product.
Pros - FDA-approved
- No fragrance
- No parabens
- No mineral oils
- No silicone
Cons
None
4. Best For Intense Hydration:Laneige Water Sleeping Mask
Love overnight hydrating masks? Then, grab this today! This mask was Allure’s Best of Beauty Award winner in 2017. It contains evening primrose and Hunza apricot extracts that brighten up dull skin and takes care of overall skin microbiome. Leave this overnight mask on your face to wake up with dewy and nourished skin. If you are still unsure, check out this honest unboxing review.
Pros - Contains beta-glucan
- Provides intense hydration
- Contains ceramide
Cons
None
5. Best For Skin Tone Correction:Liz K First C Pure Vitamin C Serum
The First C Serum contains 13% pure vitamin C – an antioxidant that has anti-aging effects that reduce signs of aging, such as wrinkles and fine lines. It brightens your skin and evens out your skin tone by reducing dark spots and patches.
Pros - Contains 10 types of anti-aging ingredients
- Can be combined with other skin care products
- Reduces puffiness
- Mild fragrance
Cons
None
6. Best Cruelty-Free:Seoul Ceuticals Day Glow Serum
Image: Seoulceuticals Minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles with the Seoul Ceuticals Day Glow Serum. This vitamin C serum reduces sun spots, clears up acne, prevents breakouts, shrinks pores, and makes the skin appear brighter and youthful. The serum is infused with vitamin C, ferulic acid, plant-based hyaluronic acid, orange stem cells, and vitamin E to reverse the signs of aging.
Pros - Cruelty-free
- Vegan
- Lightweight
- Absorbed quickly
- Pleasant scent
Cons
- Allergy-prone skin may experience redness
7. Best For Refreshed Feeling:Mamonde Petal Spa Oil to Foam Cleanser
Mamonde Petal Spa Oil to Foam Cleanser is a must-have product in your kit if you’re looking for a moisturizing cleansing formula that doesn’t leave your skin dry while cleansing it effectively. This two-in-one formula dissolves makeup and residue with oil and gives a moisturizing, foamy cleanse when added with water. This easy-to-use, double-step cleansing formula leaves the skin feeling fresh and hydrated after removing makeup.
Pros - Two-in-one cleanser
- Hydrating formula
- Gentle on the skin
- Vegan
Cons
None
8. Best Non-Comedogenic Formula:Seoul Ceuticals Marine Mineral Plump & Glow Essence
Image: Seoulceuticals Product Claims:
Seoul Ceuticals Marine Mineral Plump & Glow Essence is a highly effective serum that minimizes free radical damage on your skin. It also helps control the premature signs of aging, such as wrinkles and fine lines. It brightens your complexion with regular use, giving you healthier and more youthful-looking skin.
Pros - 98% naturally derived
- Non-comedogenic
- Naturally pH-balanced formula
- Contains organic ingredients
- Cruelty-free
Cons
None
9. Best pH-Balanced Product:Make P:rem Low-Irritant And Mild Acid Foam
Image: Make P:rem This is a foaming cleanser that loves all skin types, even the most sensitive ones too! It is extremely gentle on the skin and doesn’t irritate it. It has a pH level of 5.5, which protects the natural moisture barrier and prevents skin damage.
Pros - No SLS
- No parabens
- No synthetic dyes
- No harmful chemicals
- pH-balanced
Cons
None
Dr. Farhaad Riyaz, MD, FAAD, FACMS, a Michigan-based dermatologist says that this cleanser is hydrating and moisturizing without greasiness. “It works well on combination skin, because many of the ingredients are derived from coconut.”
10. Best For Sensitive Skin:Erborian Cleansing Water
This is an extremely gentle cleanser. It contains herbs that not only cleanse your skin but also keep it nourished and moisturized. It does not dry out your skin and is suitable for all skin types.
Pros - Easy to apply
- Can remove makeup
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Doesn’t irritate the skin
Cons
None
11. COSRX Advanced Snail All In One Cream
Image: Cosrx Plump and hydrate your dry and damaged skin with the COSRX Advanced Snail 92 All In One Cream. This cream glides smoothly on the skin and keeps it radiant. It is infused with 92% snail mucin that acts as a moisture barrier preventing moisture loss. In addition, hyaluronic acid and betaine infused in the formula soothes the skin, reduces dryness and skin irritation, minimizes redness, and makes the skin nourished and soft. The skin plumping moisturizer helps give a radiant glow to the face and makes it appear youthful.
Pros - Long-lasting
- Lightweight
- Non-greasy
- Dermatologist-tested
- Hypoallergenic
- Smooth texture
- Pleasant scent
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
- Sulfate-free
- Phthalate-free
Cons
None
12. Scinic Peptide Ampoule
Image: Scinic This peptide serum contains copper tripeptide that enhances the elasticity of the skin. It is one of the most popular skin care products from South Korea. It contains EGF or Epidermal Growth Factor that accelerates cell recovery, aloe vera, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin B5 that softens and soothes skin irritation.
Pros - Contains botanical extracts
- Alcohol-free
- Paraben-free
- Contains nourishing peptides
Cons
None
13. Mizon Black Snail All-In-One Cream
Image: Mizon Snail creams are the hottest skin care trend in Korea, and this Snail All-in-One Cream by Mizon is probably the most popular skin care product in Korea. This product contains 90% black snail mucus filtrate and 27 botanical extracts that keep your skin hydrated, plumped, and rejuvenated.
Pros - Lightweight
- Moisturizes and soothes skin instantly
- Contains natural ingredients
- Non-drying
Cons
None
14. Seoul Ceuticals Multi-Function All-In-One Anti Aging Snail Repair Cream
Image: Seoulceuticals Snail creams are the rage, and this is one of the best Korean skin care products available online. This wrinkle care cream contains snail extracts that are known for their anti-aging and moisturizing benefits. It also contains vitamins B5 and E along with organic green tea, which keeps your skin healthy.
Pros - Reduces dark spots
- Mild fragrance
- Absorbed quickly
Cons
- May feel a bit greasy
Did You Know?15. Sulwahsoo – Concentrated Ginseng Cream
Image: Sulwhasoo This cream is considered the best Korean ginseng face cream. It contains extracts of roots and berries of six-year-old ginseng, which is formulated with other herbs like milk-vetch and white mulberry. It helps in stem cell regeneration and has anti-aging properties that restructure your skin and make it flawless and smooth.
Pros - Contains ginseng extracts
- Pleasant smell
Cons
- The product is too thick.
- Expensive
16. Mizon Skin Recovery Night Repair Seruming Ampoule
Image: Mizon This formula is a blessing for your fatigued skin. It promotes skin cell turnover, brightens dark spots, reduces wrinkles, and adds radiance to your skin. From strengthening the skin’s natural barrier to protecting it against free radicals, it does it all overnight. It restores moisture to your skin and rejuvenates it for a healthy, youthful appearance.
Pros - Dropper applicator
- Non-sticky
- A little bit goes a long way
- Lightweight
Cons
None
[ Read – Innisfree Green Tea Seed Serum Review ]
17. Nature Republic Aloe Vera Gel
Image: Nature Republic Nature Republic’s Aloe Vera Gel contains 92% aloe extracts (that are certified by California CCDF and are organic). It has a moisturizing and soothing effect on the skin and is suitable for all skin types.
Pros - Contains organic aloe vera extracts
- Hydrating
- Mildly scented
Cons
- The jar packaging can be a bit messy.
18. Secret Key Starting Treatment Essence
This product claims to be a dual function essence that reduces wrinkles and brightens the skin. It contains galactomyces ferment filtrate along with vitamins B1 and B2, and niacin, and folic acid.
Pros - Doesn’t irritate the skin
- Odorless
- No parabens, dyes, and alcohol
Cons
- Expensive
19. The Face Shop The Solution Moisturizing Face Mask
This face serum claims to be a face mask that’s “as light as air.” It feels extremely soft on your face and is one of the most recommended Korean skin care products. It contains Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA) and ceramides that have moisturizing properties.
Pros - Lightweight
- Paraben-free
Cons
- Single-use mask
20. I DEW CARE Vitamin To-Glow Pack
Image: I Dew Care The I DEW CARE Vitamin To-Glow Pack includes a Bright Side up serum, a Say You dew moisturizing cream, and a Plush party lip mask. The vitamin C serum removes skin’s dullness, offers plumpness, and makes it appear brighter. The cream keeps your skin hydrated, while the lip mask smoothes the lips and makes them healthy with the hibiscus flower extract.
Pros - Lightweight
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Phthalate-free
- Formaldehyde-free
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Might cause breakouts
Pro Tip21. Secret Key Tea Tree Refresh Calming Toner
Image: Secret Key This toner is among the most popular Korean skin care products. It soothes the skin instantly and fights acne. It has antibacterial properties and prevents excess sebum production and offers oil control. It is perfect for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin.
Pros - Easy to apply
- Paraben-free
- No chemical preservatives
Cons
- Strong fragrance
- Not suitable for sensitive skin
22. Nature Republic Real Nature Mask Sheet
Image: Nature Republic The Nature Republic Real Nature Mask Sheet is a triple-layered cellulose cotton sheet mask that transfers the true essence of the main ingredient to your skin. It adheres to the skin and absorbs well. It is available in fourteen different varieties for different skin concerns.
Pros - Naturally-derived cellulose
- Lightweight
- Comfortable on the skin
- Available in different varieties
Cons
- None
23. SNP PREP Peptaronic Set
Image: Snp Prep The SNP PREP Peptaronic Set provides you a complete skincare regime with its toner, serum, tone-up cream, mask, and moisture firming cream. All products have different types of peptides and hyaluronic acids as they key ingredient to hydrate your skin intensely. They work together to boost elastin and collagen to target sagging skin, fine lines, and dullness for a firm, plump, and youthful skin tone. Additionally, the kit strengthens your moisture barrier to protect it from daily aggressors and photoaging.
Pros - Lightweight
- Non-sticky
- Pleasant scent
- Minimizes wrinkles
- Cost-effective
Cons
- Sensitive skin may experience itchiness
24. Innisfree Whitening Pore Synergy Serum
The product claims to contain tangerine peel juice that treats acne and dark spots effectively and gives you brighter-looking skin. It penetrates your skin rapidly and can be used as a regular skin serum.
Pros - Absorbed quickly
- Non-sticky
- Pump dispenser
Cons
- Expensive
- Fragrance seems artificial
- Not travel-friendly
25. AMOREPACIFIC – Moisture Bound Skin Energy Hydration Delivery System
This is one of the oldest South Korean brands. It contains green tea, ginseng, matsutake mushrooms, and bamboo sap blends rich in nutrients. The Moisture Bound Skin Energy Hydration Delivery System is oil-free. It contains water lily extracts that rejuvenate dry skin.
Pros - Instant hydration
- Oil-free look when applied over makeup
Cons
- Mildly irritating
- Contains ingredients that might clog pores
26. Make P:rem Hydrate Me Micro tension Cream
Image: Make P:rem This is a rich and intensely moisturizing cream. It brings an instant glow to your skin, and in case you are obsessed with the Korean honey skin care trend, this moisturizer can help you achieve that. It keeps your skin hydrated and smooth, giving it a plump and nourished look.
Pros - Contain ceramides
- Contains botanical oils
- Clinically tested by the Korean Dermatology Research Institute
- Non-irritant
Cons
- May not suit all skin types
- Overpowering fragrance
27. SK-II- Facial Treatment Essence
Image: Sk-ii SK-II- Facial Treatment Essence contains a secret ingredient called pitera. It moisturizes the skin and improves its texture and composition, giving you bright and glowing skin. It contains over 90% pure pitera with amino acids, vitamins, minerals, organic acids and more.
Pros - Doesn’t feel heavy
- Doesn’t contain glycerin
Cons
- Contains parabens
28. Vue De Pulang Frozen Cream
This unique cream from Vue De Pulang comes in a gel texture but solidifies after refrigeration. The sorbet-like texture might seem daunting at first to put on your face but melts instantly on skin contact. It is infused with the goodness of hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, Iceland water, bamboo sap, lemongrass extract, lemon extract, and witch hazel to offer a strong moisturizing effect, offer pore care, and minimize puffiness. Moreover, the icy cool sensation feels great on the skin too.
Pros - Lightweight
- Non-greasy
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Easy to use
Cons
- It might feel sticky on oily skin
29. Klairs Freshly Juiced Drop
Image: Dearklairs This brand is known for making skin care products that don’t contain parabens, alcohol, and artificial fragrances. This product is a pure Vitamin C extract that minimizes pores and rejuvenates your skin.
Pros - No parabens and alcohol
- Suitable for all ages and skin types
Cons
- Takes time to get absorbed.
30. I DEW CARE Namaste Kitten Clarifying Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil Cleanser
Image: I Dew Care Clarify your blemish-pore skin with the I DEW CARE Namaste Kitten Clarifying Cleanser. The cleanser is infused with hemp seed oil, heartleaf extract, and maritime pine bark extract to improve the skin’s complexion, keep it hydrated, and provide deep nourishment. This cleanser also calms down any irritation and is formulated without harsh chemicals.
Pros - Lightweight
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
- Gluten-free
- Phthalate-free
Cons
None
31. Skinfood Egg White Pore Mask
Image: Skin Food Since 1957 This wash-off mask controls excessive sebum, tightens enlarged pores, and minimizes their appearance for a refined skin appearance. Enriched with egg whites, it moisturizes and hydrates the skin and leaves it nourished and healthy. Apply this for 10-15 minutes and wash off for smooth, glowing skin.
Pros - Spreads well
- Thick consistency
- Effective results
- Wash-off mask
Cons
- Contains alcohol
Quick Tip[ Read – Innisfree Jeju Volcanic Pore Cleansing Foam Review ]
32. Skin Food Peach Sake Pore Serum
Image: Skin Food Since 1957 Peach Sake Pore Serum by Skin Food is a soft essence and rich in vitamins A and C, peach extracts, and silica. It minimizes pores, and the vitamins reduce the effects of harmful free radicals. The peach extract helps in skin rejuvenation and contains pectin, which helps to keep your skin firm.
Pros - Gives a matte effect
- Controls oil
- Can be used as serum and makeup base (primer)
Cons
- Not suitable for dry skin
33. Missha Time Revolution Clear Toner
Image: Dermalogy By Neogenlab Product Claims
Missha Time Revolution Clear Toner helps remove impurities from your face and hydrates your skin. It prepares your skin to absorb your other skincare products better. Its mild formula also provides gentle exfoliation. This purifying process leaves you with smoother, softer skin. This formula also contains fermented yeast extract that not only hydrates your skin but also brightens your complexion.
Pros - Suitable for all skin types
- Fragrance-free
- No irritating chemicals
- Alcohol-free
- Paraben-free
Cons
None
34. Mizon Snail Skincare Essentials Set
Image: Mizon Rejuvenate your skin, minimize the appearance of blemishes and scars with the Mizon Snail Skincare Essentials Set. The kit includes a cleanser, a toner, an all-in-one skin repairing cream, and an essence. Its non-greasy formula allows easy absorption, and the smooth texture glides evenly on the skin. All the products included in the kit are enriched with snail mucin that keeps your skin hydrated, creates a barrier to protect moisture loss, and reduces skin damage to make your skin luminous from inside out.
Pros - Lightweight
- Hypoallergenic
- Artificial fragrance-free
- Dye-free
- Paraben-free
Cons
- Sensitive skin may experience swelling or redness
35. La Pure Snail Skin Regenerating Mask
Image: La Pure Rejuvenate your skin and repair any damage with the La Pure Snail Skin Regenerating Mask. The mask is made of 100% cotton and contains a blend of minerals, vitamins, enzymes, and snail secretion filtrate to keep the skin healthy. This mask helps to minimize the appearance of wrinkles, prevents aging, reduces the appearance of pores, and reduces inflammation.
Pros - 100% natural ingredients
- Anti-aging benefits
- Paraben-free
- Softens skin
- Cruelty-free
Cons
None
Infographic: Korean Skin Care Tips For Beginners
A huge part of Korean skin care is centered around products made with skin-friendly ingredients that cleanse the skin thoroughly, nourish and moisturize it, and fight the signs of aging. It is also a lot about the way you do your skin care, coupled with a few facial massage techniques. Check out the infographic below to learn more.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
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The Bottom Line
If you are a skin care enthusiast, you will never miss a chance to store up on the best Korean skin care products. These Korean beauty brands constantly attract users and stand as an inspiration to many such brands. Their products are gentle on the skin and they also offer a wide range of products that are must-haves for your skin care routine. The Dr.G Brightening Peeling Gel deeply exfoliates the skin and is suitable for sensitive skin, while the Acropass Trouble Cure soothes and heals acne. The Seoul Ceuticals Day Glow Serum reduces signs of premature aging and lends a youthful glow to the face. These Korean skin care products are lightweight, paraben-free, and vegan. However, some products are not suitable for extremely sensitive skin, so be wary and check the ingredients list. Check out the buying guide to grab the best product that suits your skin type, and always do a patch test if you have extremely sensitive skin.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author, Shiboli Chakraborti, is a certified skin care coach who loves reviewing different skin and hair care products. She believes that the Korean skin care products listed in this article are must-haves! She has curated this list of budget-friendly products which are paraben-free, skin-friendly, and absolutely non-greasy. From sleeping masks to serums, her list features every essential item you need to keep your skin glowing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Korean skin care really better?
Yes, Korean skin care is better than most others due to their clean formulations that are gentle yet effective for skin health. They also cater to a wide variety of skin issues.
Is Korean skin care cheaper or affordable?
Some Korean brands are affordable, while others are luxury brands that offer high-end products.
Is Korean skin care good for black skin?
Yes, Korean skin care products cater to a variety of skin needs and are good for black skin.
Can teenagers use Korean skin care products?
Yes, Korean skin care products are suitable for teenagers. They are mostly devoid of harsh chemicals and gentle enough for sensitive teen skin.
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