Skincare in South Korea is a crucial aspect of modern culture. In the neighborhood, Myeongdong, in the capital of Seoul, you can find thousands of Korean beauty stores:

When I found out I was moving to South Korea, one of the first thoughts that came to mind was how excited I was to learn about the products offered here and their extensive 8-10 step skincare regime. I have very prominent scarring from severe adult cystic acne in my Freshman year of college and I have been extremely interested in skincare ever since. Before the acne, I had oily and acne prone skin, but after my dermatologist prescribed strong medication to rid of the acne, I have had very dry skin in the winter and combination skin in more humid climates, like my home in Florida. I was lucky enough to work for Estee Lauder and Clinique while still in college which helped me hone in on the knowledge I had started acquiring from experimenting with products. Over the past year, I’ve come to find a few of my favorite Korean products:

1. Banila Co. Clean It Zero-Radiance

This product is a make up removing oil cleanser that melts away everything without scrubbing. I have found this essential in my routine as it is much simpler to use than a makeup wipe or other type of remover. The company recommends using their classic line instead of the “Radiance” version in case of sensitive skin. The perk to the radiance edition is the grape root and moringa extracts that work to brighten dull, dry skin.

2. COSRX Low PH Good Morning Cleanser

This is such a stable in anyone’s routine. Simple, gentle cleanser which would be great for anyone with sensitive skin. For anyone living locally in Korea, you can find this cleanser easily at most Olive Young and ALand stores.

3. Neogen Bio-Peel Gauze Wine Exfoliating Pads

After cleansing, a few times a week it’s great to exfoliate. These exfoliating pads are soaked with “Wine” and add antioxidants while riding the skin of toxins. This is a solid, unique product that leaves my skin looking so radiant! I have a problem with dullness and this product adds life back into my skin.

4. Etude House Moistfull Collagen Toner

I have an issue with toners feeling a little too harsh because most are made with alcohol or witch hazel which strip your skin and cause dryness and irritation. This toner is so calming and has no harshness. I am still on the hunt with something with more benefits, but this toner helps make my skin look more supple.

5. Innisfree The Green Tea Seed Serum

I’m always on the hunt for serums. This is a daytime staple & it smells great!

6. LANEIGE Water Sleeping “Mask”-Night Moisturizer

THIS NIGHT CREAM IS EVERYTHING! I am a forever believer. I used to use Origins, but I would find the $40+ jar went by so quickly. Not only is this jar double the size, but it’s also half the price! Amazing. I am a believer for life. Buy this and you’ll thank me forever.

7. Etude House Moistfull Collagen Eye Cream

This eye cream is obviously from the same line as the toner I mentioned previously. Most eye creams really irritate me, but I am a huge, huge fan of this cream. Not sure if there are actually collagen contributing benefits, however it is very gentle and hydrating.

8. The Face Shop-The Solution Face Masks: Radiance

I’ve tried a lot of face masks, even before my big move to Korea and I try to do one at least one a week or I see a huge difference in my skin for the worse. The Face Shop “The Solution” line is incredible. My absolute favorite is “Radiance,” but I’ve also used five different types from the line and I would still prefer them over many other face mask variations. The radiance mask makes my skin literally glow and I recommend for anyone to try.

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Honorable Mentions:

—Missha Super Aqua Ultra Waterfull Cream-Day Moisturizer

I have yet to find a day time moisturizer that’s the end all be all, but this is what I’m using right now. It’s okay. I would prefer a gel-type moisturizer that has heavy hydration. similar to CLINIQUE Moisture Surge Extended Thirst Relief. This is light enough where it doesn’t bother me so for now, it will do. If you have any recommendations, let me know!

—Skinfood Black Sugar Perfect First Serum

Okay, I loved this serum. The only reason I am putting it in the honorable mentions is that I heard once through the grapevine that you should not use Sugar based products on your skin. There may be some truth to that, which I honestly do not know. If there is no health concern, I think this is one of the best serums I’ve tried here.

—Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair

Finally, Estee Lauder is not a South Korean company but their products are available throughout Asia. The Advanced Night Repair Synchronized Recovery Complex is hands down, the best serum I have ever used in my entire life. It is magic in a bottle. If it didn’t cost an arm & a leg, I would bathe in this stuff. Incredible and Estee Lauder has a fan for life from me.

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I hope you all enjoyed and learned something from this! If you are reading from the United States, please utilize SoKoGlam.com or Amazon for most of these products as well as a select number being available at Sephora.