Whether you're new to the 10-step skincare routine, or simply interested in trying some of the best K-beauty products out there. From the TikTok-famous snail mucin essence by Cosrx, to Beauty of Joseon's propolis and niacinamide serum, we're exploring some of the most popular Korean skincare brands and products!
Clean formulas, natural ingredients and a holistic approach to skin health make these brand favorites. Plus, they're all cruelty-free and affordable!
iUNIK
iUNIK means œIdeal Unique Natural Ingredients Know-how. The brand believes in creating skincare that is simple and straightforward. They avoid pointless ingredients and focus on skin-friendly, safe formulas for every product they make. Their products are also affordable.
Among their best sellers are the iUNIK Black Snail Restore Serum, Rose Galactomyces Essential Toner, and Beta-Glucan Power Moisture Serum. The iUNIK Centella Calming Gel Cream is another favorite of many K-beauty fans. This product is known to lower skin temperature, calm acne-prone skin, and reduce the appearance of pores.
All iUNIK products are hypoallergenic and made with natural, low-hazard ingredients. Their ingredients are ranked 1 or 2 by the EWG (Environmental Working Group). They also make it a priority to clearly label all of their products and provide supporting documentation.
Shop palace beauty
Shop palace beauty is one of those brands that has managed to become a household name amongst the best korean skincare community. They are known for their clean, simple products and their commitment to customer satisfaction. They communicate directly with consumers and take advantage of Amazon's Early Reviewer program to gather feedback on their products.
Their products are formulated with a variety of ingredients that address different skin concerns. Snail slime (also called snail secretion filtrate) is one of their main star ingredients and can be found in the Advanced Snail line of products. It is combined with licorice root to brighten, peony root to combat free radical damage and hyaluronic acid for hydration.
It is also committed to reducing its environmental footprint. They are cruelty-free and are registered with Leaping Bunny and PETA.
Etude House
Etude House is a popular beauty brand from Korea that offers a variety of makeup, skincare, hair care, and tools. Their products are known for being fun, effective, and affordable.
One of their best-selling products is the Moistfull Collagen Cream, which helps to maintain the skin's elasticity and boost collagen levels. This product also contains kaolin, which helps to remove excess oil from the face, and Adansonia digittata fruit extract, which has antioxidant properties.
Another great Etude House product is the Real Art Cleansing Oil Moisture, which is an oil-based cleanser that gently and effectively removes makeup and impurities from the face. It also includes olive and macadamia oils, which provide your skin with nourishment and moisture. This product is also free of parabens and sulfates, making it safe for all skin types.
Beauty of Joseon
Beauty of Joseon is an excellent brand for those who want a healthy and natural complexion. The brand uses Hanbang ingredients and modern skincare formulas to create effective products. They are known for their Dynasty cream, which is a brightening and anti-aging product.
Another product that Beauty of Joseon is known for is their Calming Serum, which is formulated with green tea and panthenol to soothe skin. It helps soothe sensitive skin and alleviate redness and inflammation.
Another serum by Beauty of Joseon is their Glow Serum, which is formulated with propolis and niacinamide to boost collagen and brighten the skin. It also contains turmeric, which is a powerful antiseptic and anti-inflammatory. The serum is ideal for all skin types, including dry and sensitive skin.
KAHI
One of the hottest skincare brands in Korea, KAHI skyrocketed into fame after being featured in numerous K-dramas. Their Wrinkle Bounce Multi Balm is the go-to for anyone looking to reduce the appearance of crow's feet lines, "11" line between the brows, and puffy eyes.
It stimulates collagen production and increases skin elasticity, while also minimizing pores and boosting the lasting power of makeup. It contains salmon complex infused with Salmon Collagen and Salmon PDRN, as well as Jeju natural fermented oils such as Schisandra Berries to intensify absorption.
The balm stick format is easy to carry and use on the go, and it's perfect for applying skincare without using your potentially germy fingers. Whether you're a fan of Kim Go-Eun in Yumi's Cells or The King Eternal Monarch, this brand is a must-try for every K-drama and beauty store.
