17 Best Korean Skin-Care Brands, According to Allure Editors

Image contains Allure editors with their favorite Korean skincare brand surrounded by a collage of productsCollage: Jemeria Davison; Source images: Courtesy of Allure editors and brandsSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

The best Korean skin-care brands have a knack for making your routine feel a little more exciting—and a lot more effective. K-beauty has spent the past decade shaking up the global skin-care scene with innovative ingredients, playful textures, and formulas that prioritize healthy, hydrated skin. Case in point: the bouncy lip masks from Laneige, the snail mucin-powered hydrators from CosRx, and the high-tech, collagen-focused treatments from Medicube that seem to pop up all over TikTok.

But at Allure, calling something the “best” takes more than viral fame. Our editors test countless formulas and look for brands that deliver on both innovation and results—think barrier-friendly ingredients like Centella asiatica (a.k.a. cica) and ceramides, clever formats like grinding cleansing balms, and sensorial experiences that make you look forward to doing your routine (whether it’s 10 steps or two).

Our Top Picks from the Best Korean Skin-Care Brands

Aestura A-Cica365 Soothing Relief Serum pH4.5 in branded dropper component on a light gray backgroundThe Most Soothing SerumAestura A-Cica365 Soothing Relief Serum pH4.5Jump to review$38

Sephora

Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum in branded dropper component on a light gray background Honey, You’re GlowingBeauty of Joseon Glow SerumJump to review$27 $16 (41% off)

Amazon

Belif Aqua Bomb Frozen Cream in branded tube component on a light gray backgroundFlushed Skin, BegoneBelif Aqua Bomb Frozen CreamJump to review$26 $18 (31% off)

Amazon

CosRx The Peptide Collagen Hydrogel Eye Patches in branded tub component on a light gray backgroundDepuffing Darling Cosrx The Peptide Collagen Hydrogel Eye PatchesJump to review$23 $17 (26% off)

Amazon

Dr. Althea Pure Grinding Cleansing Balm green twisting jar on cleansing balm on light gray background with red Allure Best of Beauty seal in the top right corner Waterproof Makeup, Who?Dr. Althea Pure Grinding Cleansing BalmJump to review$23 $16 (30% off)

Amazon

Haruharu Wonder Centella Phyto & 5 Peptide Concentrate Cream in branded tub component on a light gray backgroundFirmed UpHaruharu Wonder Centella Phyto & 5 Peptide Concentrate CreamJump to review$16 $14 (13% off)

Amazon

Illiyoon Ceramide Ato Concentrate Cream in branded tube component on a light gray backgroundBarrier Support Illiyoon Ceramide Ato Concentrate CreamJump to review$29 $17 (41% off)

Amazon

Ahead, we’re highlighting the Korean skin-care brands that consistently impress our editors—whether they’re longtime staples or newer names pushing the category forward. If your routine could use a refresh, these are the brands worth getting to know.

Aestura

Aestura A-Cica365 Soothing Relief Serum pH4.5 in branded dropper component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Aestura

A-Cica365 Soothing Relief Serum pH4.5

$38

Sephora

$50

Olive Young

Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the Aestura A-Cica365 Soothing Relief Serum pH4.5

Christa Joanna Lee

Why we love it: If Korean skin care had its own version of dermatologist favorites like CeraVe or La Roche-Posay, Aestura would be a close comparison. The brand grew out of Pacific Pharma (now part of Amorepacific), which explains its derm-minded approach. Aestura focuses on sensitive skin-friendly formulas with gentle, carefully balanced ingredients designed to keep skin healthy over time. “[Aestura’s] not just about stronger actives—it’s about delivery systems, barrier intelligence, and layering strategies that support long-term collagen health,” says Hee Jin Kim, MD, a board-certified internal medicine physician based in Fort Lee, New Jersey.

You can see that approach in one of their latest products, A-Cica365 Soothing Relief Serum pH4.5, a lightweight formula with soothing Centella asiatica-derived ingredients and a skin-friendly pH to calm irritation while supporting the skin barrier. The texture absorbs quickly and leaves a smooth, lightly hydrated finish, making it easy to layer under moisturizer, sunscreen, and makeup—without pilling or feeling heavy.

Aestura Atobarrier 365 Ceramide Lotion white and blue bottle of lotion with red Allure Best of Beauty seal in the top right cornerSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Aestura

Atobarrier 365 Lotion

$32 $26 (19% off)

Amazon

$32

Sephora

Aestura Atobarrier 365 Cream Mist in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Aestura

Atobarrier 365 Cream Mist

$24

Amazon

$24

Sephora

Beauty of Joseon

Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum in branded dropper component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Beauty of Joseon

Glow Serum

$27 $16 (41% off)

Amazon

Allure associate beauty editor Annie Blay-Tettey applying the Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum

Annie Blay-Tettey

Why we love it: Quick Korean beauty history lesson: Back during the Joseon Dynasty, Korean royalty and aristocrats were known for their elaborate skin-care rituals, often turning to hanbang—traditional herbal medicine—to help keep their complexions clear, calm, and bright. Beauty of Joseon borrows from that history but gives it a modern spin, blending classic botanicals with modern ingredients that feel easy to layer into a routine.

One of the brand’s most beloved products, the Glow Serum, shows exactly what the brand does best. The formula pairs propolis—known for its soothing, glow-boosting properties—with niacinamide, which helps support the skin barrier, calm visible redness, and bring out that soft, lit-from-within radiance.

Pink tube of Beauty of Joseon Red Bean Water Gel on light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Beauty of Joseon

Red Bean Water Gel

$18

Amazon

Beauty of Joseon Revive Under Eye Patch in branded tub component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Beauty of Joseon

Revive Under Eye Patch

$22 $15 (32% off)

Amazon

$20

Sephora

Belif

Belif Aqua Bomb Frozen Cream in branded tube component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Belif

Aqua Bomb Frozen Cream

$26 $18 (31% off)

Amazon

$26

Ulta Beauty

Lee applying the Belif Aqua Bomb Frozen Cream

Christa Joanna Lee

Why we love it: Belif, an LG Beauty-owned brand, takes an apothecary-inspired approach that sets it apart in the K-beauty world, focusing on simple, botanically driven formulas that keep skin hydrated and balanced.

A unique product that really does this well is their new Aqua Bomb Frozen Cream. Think of it as the brand’s fan-favorite Aqua Bomb moisturizer with a cooling twist. The gel-cream contains tiny “frozen” capsules that burst as you massage it in, releasing a surge of hydration across the skin. The formula layers moisture magnets like glycerin and sodium hyaluronate while botanical extracts—including rosehip, rosemary, thyme, and lemon balm—help keep skin feeling balanced and refreshed. “It’s formulated to deliver intense hydration without heaviness,” says Jane Yoo, MD, a dual board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon based in New York City. The icy-cool texture also makes it especially refreshing when skin feels overheated, flushed, or dehydrated—like after a long day in the sun or a sweaty workout.

belif Aqua Bomb Eye Gel in branded blue tube with under eye applicator tip on light gray background with red Allure Best of Beauty seal in the top right cornerSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Belif

Aqua Bomb Depuffing Eye Gel

$32 $22 (31% off)

Amazon

$32

Ulta Beauty

$32

Sephora

Belif Aqua Bomb Sleeping Mask in branded tub component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Belif

Aqua Bomb Sleeping Mask

$38 $30 (21% off)

Amazon

$38

Nordstrom

$38

Ulta Beauty

CosRx

CosRx The Peptide Collagen Hydrogel Eye Patches in branded tub component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Cosrx

The Peptide Collagen Hydrogel Eye Patches

$23 $17 (26% off)

Amazon

$23

Ulta Beauty

Associate beauty editor Annie BlayTettey wearing the CosRx The Peptide Collagen Hydrogel Eye Patch

Blay-Tettey after applying the CosRx The Peptide Collagen Hydrogel Eye Patch

Annie Blay-Tettey

Why we love it: If K-beauty had a no-frills, results-first brand in the same vein as Paula's Choice, CosRx would be it. The name comes from “cosmetics” + “Rx,” which tells you a lot about the brand’s mission: straightforward formulas designed to treat everyday skin concerns without unnecessary extras. CosRx also helped turn snail mucin from a “huh?” ingredient into a skin-care obsession, thanks to its reputation for deep hydration and barrier support.

That same focus on practical, supportive ingredients shows up in products like their Peptide Collagen Hydrogel Eye Patch. The cooling hydrogel patches are infused with peptides and collagen to soften the look of fine lines while giving tired undereyes a quick hit of hydration. Because hydrogel locks moisture into the skin, the patches stay comfortably in place while the serum-like essence sinks in—making them especially handy when your undereyes look a little puffy or tired.

CosRx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Cosrx

Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence

$25 $13 (48% off)

Amazon

$25

Nordstrom

$21

Ulta Beauty

CosRx BHA Blackhead Power Liquid Treatment in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Cosrx

BHA Blackhead Power Liquid Treatment

$25 $15 (40% off)

Amazon

$25

Nordstrom

$25

Ulta Beauty

Dr.Althea

Dr. Althea Pure Grinding Cleansing Balm green twisting jar on cleansing balm on light gray background with red Allure Best of Beauty seal in the top right cornerSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Dr. Althea

Pure Grinding Cleansing Balm

$23 $16 (30% off)

Amazon

$23

Ulta Beauty

Allure commerce producer Sarah Hoffmann washing her face with the Dr. Althea Pure Grinding Cleansing Balm

Sarah Hoffmann

Why we love it: Despite the name, Dr.Althea isn’t an actual person. The brand name blends “Dr.”—a nod to skin science and dermatology—with “Althea,” the national flower of Korea, reflecting its goal of pairing clinical research with soothing botanical ingredients. The brand has built a following for calm, minimalist formulas that support the skin barrier without piling on too many actives.

Dr.Althea’s Pure Grinding Cleansing Balm is one of our favorite examples of what their innovations are all about. The buttery, 2025 Best of Beauty Award winner melts into an oil as you massage it in, effortlessly dissolving sunscreen, makeup, and daily buildup. The formula relies on nourishing ingredients like camellia seed oil, grapeseed oil, and Centella asiatica extract, which help soften skin while calming irritation. And then there’s the packaging: Instead of scooping balm out of a jar with a spatula, the product dispenses through a clever grinding mechanism that keeps the formula fresh and makes the whole process much less messy.

Dr. Althea Vitamin C Boosting Serum in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Dr. Althea

Vitamin C Boosting Serum

$27 $18 (33% off)

Amazon

$24

Ulta Beauty

Dr. Althea 345 Relief Cream in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Dr. Althea

345 Relief Cream

$27 $20 (26% off)

Amazon

$27

Ulta Beauty

$27

Olive Young

Haruharu Wonder

Haruharu Wonder Centella Phyto & 5 Peptide Concentrate Cream in branded tub component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Haruharu Wonder

Centella Phyto & 5 Peptide Concentrate Cream

$16 $14 (13% off)

Amazon

$24

Nordstrom

$24

Yesstyle

Allure editor in chief Jessica Cruel applying the Haruharu Wonder Centella Phyto & 5 Peptide Concentrate Cream

Jessica Cruel

Why we love it: Haruharu Wonder might not be a household name—yet—but it’s quickly becoming a favorite among K-beauty fans in the know. The word haruharu means “day by day” in Korean, reflecting the brand’s focus on building healthier skin through small, consistent habits. It’s also a fitting name for another reason: Our favorite products from the brand seem to change day by day, too. Many of its formulas spotlight gentle actives and barrier-supporting ingredients that help skin look smoother, calmer, and glowier. As Allure’s editor in chief puts it, “No one does bounce like the Koreans.”

A great introduction is the Centella Phyto & 5 Peptide Concentrate Cream. The moisturizer pairs cica, a go-to ingredient for calming redness and irritation, with a blend of five peptides that support firmer, smoother-looking skin over time. The texture lands in that sweet spot, rich enough to lock in moisture but still lightweight enough to layer comfortably with the rest of your routine.

Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Probiotics Barrier Essence in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Haruharu Wonder

Black Rice Probiotics Barrier Essence

$22 $18 (18% off)

Amazon

$28

Nordstrom

$28

Olive Young

Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Moisture Cleansing Oil in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Haruharu Wonder

Black Rice Moisture Cleansing Oil

$16 $14 (13% off)

Amazon

$25

Nordstrom

Illiyoon

Illiyoon Ceramide Ato Concentrate Cream in branded tube component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Illiyoon

Ceramide Ato Concentrate Cream

$29 $17 (41% off)

Amazon

$29

Yesstyle

Allure commerce writer Lily Wohler applying the Illiyoon Ceramide Ato Concentrate Cream

Lily Wohlner

Why we love it: Illiyoon is one of those K-beauty brands people tend to discover when their skin is acting up—and then they never really stop using it. The brand, part of Amorepacific, focuses on simple, ceramide-rich formulas designed to help skin hold onto moisture and stay calm and comfortable. It’s straightforward, dependable skin care that’s especially great for sensitive types. In fact, Joyce Park, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Washington, said she uses Illiyoon creams every night.

At the Allure offices, we’re constantly passing around the Illiyoon Ceramide Ato Concentrate Cream. The rich-but-not-greasy moisturizer is packed with encapsulated ceramides and hydrating ingredients that help strengthen skin and lock in moisture. If your complexion feels dry or irritated, any Illiyoon product or treatment will pretty much do the trick.

Illiyoon Ceramide Ato Concentrate Gel Face Mask in branded components on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Illiyoon

Ceramide Ato Concentrate Gel Face Mask

$25 $21 (16% off)

Amazon

A blue tube of Illiyoon Ceramide Ato Soothing Gel with a white gel product swatch on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Illiyoon

Ceramide Ato Soothing Gel

$29 $17 (41% off)

Amazon

I’m From

I’m From Rice Serum white bottle of serum on light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

I'm From

Rice Serum

$27

Ulta Beauty

$28

Soko Glam

$32

Olive Young

Allure senior commerce director Shanna Shipin applying the I’m From Rice Serum

Shanna Shipin

Why we love it: I’m From makes ingredient sourcing part of the story, with each formula centered around a single hero ingredient—and the brand tells you exactly where it’s grown. Think mugwort from Ganghwa, fig from Yeongam, or rice harvested in Yeoju, a region known for its mineral-rich soil and high-quality crops. It’s the kind of farm-to-face transparency that makes ingredient nerds very happy.

Our editors can’t get enough of the I’m From Rice Serum, which uses nutrient-rich rice to boost hydration while helping skin look brighter and more even-toned. The silky formula layers easily with the rest of your routine and leaves skin with that soft, luminous glass glow K-beauty is famous for. And if you want another quick radiance boost, the “Rice Glow Peel-Off Mask gently exfoliates and removes impurities while locking in moisture,” says Sarah Chung Park, creator of K-Beauty World at Ulta Beauty based in Los Angeles.

I’m From Rice Toner in branded bottle component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

I'm From

Rice Toner

$28

Ulta Beauty

$28

Soko Glam

I’m From Rice Glow Peel Off Mask in branded tube component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

I'm From

Rice Glow Peel Off Mask

$28

Nordstrom

$28

Ulta Beauty

Innisfree

Innisfree Daily UV Defense Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50+ PA++++ in branded tube components on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Innisfree

Daily UV Defense Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50+ PA++++

$18

Amazon

$18

Sephora

Allure senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin applying the Innisfree Daily UV Defense Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50+ PA++++

Sarah Felbin

Why we love it: When people in South Korea have a long weekend, many of them retreat to Jeju Island—a volcanic island known for its lush landscapes, mineral-rich soil, and fresh ocean air. That same island is the inspiration behind Innisfree, one of the first K-beauty brands that helped introduce Korean skin care to a global audience. The brand has long sourced ingredients from Jeju—like green tea, volcanic clay, and other botanicals—earning a reputation for nature-inspired formulas that feel lightweight, gentle, and easy to use every day.

And while plenty of Korean brands have mastered the art of silky sunscreens with zero white cast, Innisfree’s Daily UV Defense Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50+ PA++++—the upgraded version of the brand’s long-time fan-favorite and Best of Beauty winner—is especially worth calling out. It sinks in quickly, layers well under makeup, and leaves skin looking naturally hydrated rather than greasy—exactly the kind of sunscreen you’ll actually want to wear every morning.

Innisfree Super Volcanic AHA Pore Clearing Clay Mask in branded tub component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Innisfree

Super Volcanic Pore Clay Mask

$18 $14 (22% off)

Amazon

$18

Sephora

Innisfree Green Tea Ceramide Milk Toner in branded tube component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Innisfree

Green Tea Ceramide Milk Toner

$24

Sephora

$24

Kohl’s

Laneige

Laneige Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Cream Moisturizer in sky blue packaging on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Laneige

Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Cream Moisturizer

$38

Amazon

$38

Sephora

Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the Laneige Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Cream Moisturizer

Sarah Han

Why we love it: If you’re a tween or teen (or have one in your life), you probably don’t need much of an introduction to Laneige. The brand’s lip sleeping masks and overnight treatments have practically achieved sleepover-essential status. But while the packaging and TikTok fame might skew young, the formulas themselves are no joke—Laneige has long focused on sophisticated hydration that leaves skin looking plump, smooth, and healthy.

A great example is the Laneige Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Cream Moisturizer. The cushiony cream is packed with Blue Hyaluronic Acid, a micro-sized form of HA that absorbs quickly and delivers long-lasting hydration. The formula also includes ceramides and squalane to help seal in moisture and keep skin feeling soft and comfortable. “It delivers hydration in a way that makes skin look smoother and more rested, plus it layers beautifully under SPF or makeup,” adds Dr. Yoo.

​​Laneige Water Sleeping Mask in branded tub component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Laneige

Water Sleeping Mask

$33

Amazon

$33

Sephora

Laniege Lip Sleeping Mask in branded tub component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Laneige

Lip Sleeping Mask

$24

Amazon

$24

Sephora

Ma:nyo

ma:nyo Pure Cleansing Oil orange bottle of facial cleansing oil with white pump on light gray background with red Allure Best of Beauty seal in the top right cornerSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Ma:nyo

Pure Cleansing Oil

$23 $14 (39% off)

Amazon

$23

Ulta Beauty

$29

Soko Glam

Allure senior news editor Nicola Dall’Asen washing her face with the Ma:nyo Pure Cleansing Oil

Nicola Dall'Asen

Why we love it: Ma:nyo is one of those K-beauty brands skin-care fans tend to discover through word of mouth—maybe from one of the 20 million people who’ve tried the brand’s Pure Cleansing Oil. The name comes from the Korean word manyeo, meaning “sorceress,” a playful nod to the idea that great skin care can feel a little like potion-making.

Speaking of the 2025 Best of Beauty Award-winning cleanser, it’s easy to see why it has such a loyal following. The lightweight formula blends grapeseed, olive, sunflower, and camellia oils to melt away sunscreen, makeup, and excess sebum while keeping skin soft and hydrated. Ingredients like rice bran oil and green tea extract help soothe and condition as you cleanse. One of our testers—who’s been using it for years—puts it best: “Oil cleansing for a few minutes every single night has taken my skin from good to great.”

Ma:nyo Panthetoin Essence Toner in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Ma:nyo

Panthetoin Essence Toner

$18 $14 (22% off)

Amazon

$22

Ulta Beauty

$25

Olive Young

Manyo Galactomy Niacin 2.0 Essence in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Ma:nyo

Galac Niacin 2.0 Essence

$30 $19 (37% off)

Amazon

$29

Soko Glam

$29

Yesstyle

Medicube

Medicube Collagen Night Wrapping Mask in branded tube component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Medicube

Collagen Night Wrapping Mask

$19 $15 (21% off)

Amazon

$21

Ulta Beauty

Allure features director Dianna Singh removing the Medicube Collagen Night Wrapping Mask

Dianna Singh

Why we love it: When you’re done staring at the oddly satisfying video of our features director peeling off her face mask, let’s talk about the brand behind it: Medicube. The K-beauty label has built a reputation for treatment-focused formulas and at-home devices designed to address texture, pores, and loss of firmness—so the vibe feels slightly more clinical than spa-like.

Their TikTok-famous Collagen Night Wrapping Mask is an overnight treatment designed to help skin look smoother and more plump by morning. The formula forms a lightweight, flexible film over skin—almost like a protective wrap—so hydrating and collagen-supporting ingredients can stay in place while you sleep. In the morning, you simply peel it away to reveal skin that looks softer, smoother, and a little bouncier. Plenty of brands have tried to replicate the concept (dupes included), but few have managed to capture the same fresh, glassy finish this mask delivers.

Medicube PDRN Pink Collagen Capsule Cream in branded tub component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Medicube

PDRN Pink Collagen Capsule Cream

$22 $16 (27% off)

Amazon

$22

Ulta Beauty

Medicube Zero Pore Capsule Cleansing Foam light blue tube on light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Medicube

Zero Pore Capsule Cleansing Foam

$20 $13 (35% off)

Amazon

$17

Ulta Beauty

Round Lab

Round Lab 1025 Dokdo Cleansing Oil in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Round Lab

1025 Dokdo Cleansing Oil

$23

Amazon

$23

Nordstrom

$23

Ulta Beauty

Han applying the Round Lab 1025 Dokdo Cleansing Oil

Sarah Han

Why we love it: Round Lab takes its cues from nature, often building formulas around ingredients sourced from different corners of Korea—from coastal waters to mountainous regions. One of its most popular collections, Dokdo, is named after the rocky islets in the East Sea and spotlights mineral-rich deep-sea water and other ocean-derived ingredients designed to keep skin feeling calm, balanced, and hydrated.

The 1025 Dokdo Cleansing Oil, for instance, has long been a staple in our double-cleansing routines. The lightweight formula uses a blend of nourishing plant-based oils—like meadowfoam seed, grapeseed, avocado, and evening primrose—to melt away makeup and daily buildup. Along with nourishing seawater, it features soothing ingredients like panthenol and allantoin, so skin feels clean and comfortable afterward.

Round Lab Birch Juice Moisturizing UVLock Spectrum 45 Sunscreen in branded tube component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Round Lab

Birch Juice Moisturizing UVLock Spectrum 45 Sunscreen

$22 $18 (18% off)

Amazon

$25

Nordstrom

$25

Ulta Beauty

Round Lab 1025 Dokdo Toner in branded clear bottle with clear cap on light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Round Lab

1025 Dokdo Toner

$17 $12 (29% off)

Amazon

$17

Nordstrom

$17

Ulta Beauty

Skin1004

Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Light Cleansing Oil in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Skin1004

Madagascar Centella Light Cleansing Oil

$16

Amazon

$22

Nordstrom

$25

Ulta Beauty

Allure contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai applying the Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Light Cleansing Oil

Deanna Pai

Why we love it: If the calming effects of Skin1004 feel especially good on your skin, the name offers a subtle hint: “1004” is pronounced cheon-sa in Korean, which means “angel.” Fittingly, the brand builds most of its formulas around cica sourced from Madagascar, where the plant grows with exceptional purity, thanks to the island’s relatively untouched environment.

That star ingredient shows up front and center in the Centella Light Cleansing Oil, which sweeps away sunscreen and makeup while helping keep skin calm and comfortable. The lightweight oil emulsifies easily with water and rinses off cleanly—no greasy film—making it a particularly satisfying first step in a double cleanse. Dr. Park even calls it “a new favorite” for her sensitive, rosacea-prone skin. And true to Skin1004’s streamlined style, the formula keeps things simple with just four key oils: bergamot, sunflower seed, olive fruit, and jojoba seed.

SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Intensive Ampoule brown serum bottle with beige and black dropper cap on light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Skin1004

Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Intensive Ampoule

$19 $14 (26% off)

Amazon

$22

Nordstrom

$34

Ulta Beauty

Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Poremizing Quick Clay Stick Mask in a branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Skin1004

Madagascar Centella Poremizing Quick Clay Stick Mask

$25

Nordstrom

$25

Ulta Beauty

Some By Mi

Some by Mi AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Truecica Clear Pad in branded tub component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Some by Mi

AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Truecica Clear Pad

$18 $14 (22% off)

Amazon

$25

Ulta Beauty

$24

Olive Young

Hoffmann applying the Some by Mi AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Truecica Clear Pad

Sarah Hoffmann

Why we love it: Leave it to K-beauty to figure out how to make exfoliation feel both gentle and effective. If you’ve ever dealt with blemishes or rough texture, chances are you’ve come across Some By Mi. The name is a clever twist on the phrase “something by a miracle,” and the brand has built a loyal following for formulas that help calm and clear troubled skin, combining exfoliating acids and soothing botanicals.

Take their AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Truecica Clear Pad, for instance. The toner pads combine a trio of acids—AHA, BHA, and PHA—to slough off dead skin cells, unclog pores, and smooth rough texture. Instead of relying on a high concentration of a single acid (more typical of Western exfoliants), the formula uses smaller amounts of multiple acids for a gentler approach. It also includes Truecica, the brand’s proprietary complex derived from Centella asiatica, to help keep skin balanced rather than irritated. One quick swipe lifts away leftover buildup, leaving skin smoother, clearer, and ready for the rest of your routine.

Some by Mi AHA-BHA-PHA 30 Days Miracle Acne Body Cleanser in green branded bottle component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Some By Mi

AHA-BHA-PHA 30 Days Miracle Acne Body Cleanser

$19

Amazon

$18

Soko Glam

$21

Ulta Beauty

Some By Mi Retinol Intense Advanced Triple Action Eye Cream on light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Some by Mi

Retinol Intense Advanced Triple Action Eye Cream

$18 $14 (22% off)

Amazon

$24

Soko Glam

$26

Ulta Beauty

Sulwhasoo

Sulwhasoo Concentrated Ginseng Rejuvenating Cleansing Foam in branded tube component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Sulwhasoo

Concentrated Ginseng Rejuvenating Cleansing Foam

$65

Nordstrom

Lee applying the Sulwhasoo Concentrated Ginseng Rejuvenating Cleansing Foam

Christa Joanna Lee

Why we love it: While many K-beauty brands are known for their affordability, Sulwhasoo sits on the more luxurious end of the spectrum, thanks to its traditional ingredients and access to Amorepacific’s extensive research labs. The brand is best known for its hanbang approach, often spotlighting ingredients used in Korea for generations—especially ginseng, which Sulwhasoo carefully processes and ferments for hundreds of hours to help bring out its skin-revitalizing benefits.

That star ingredient also appears in their new Sulwhasoo Concentrated Ginseng Rejuvenating Cleansing Foam. The cleanser transforms from a dense cream into a rich foam—making it a great option for oily or combination skin without leaving skin feeling squeaky and tight. And while it’s easy to hesitate over investing in a cleanser that’s only on your face for about 60 seconds, the soft, balanced, just-cleansed feeling that lingers afterward helps explain why so many fans consider it—and the rest of the brand’s ginseng lineup—worth it.

Sulwhasoo First Care Activating Serum in branded bottle component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Sulwhasoo

First Care Activating Serum

$89

Amazon

$89

Nordstrom

$89

Sephora

Sulwhasoo Concentrated Ginseng Renewing Eye Cream orange jar with gold lid on light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Sulwhasoo

Concentrated Ginseng Renewing Eye Cream

$120 $102 (15% off)

Amazon

$120

Nordstrom

Torriden

Torriden Dive In 5D Hyaluronic Acid Intensive Serum blue serum bottle on light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Torriden

Dive In 5D Hyaluronic Acid Intensive Serum

$24

Sephora

Han applying the Torriden 5D Hyaluronic Acid Intensive Serum

Sarah Han

Why we love it: Hyaluronic acid might be one of the most talked-about ingredients in skin care—and for good reason. The moisture magnet pulls water into the skin, helping keep it looking plump, smooth, and comfortable. That hydration-first focus is exactly what Torriden has built its reputation around, with gentle formulas designed to keep dry, thirsty skin feeling balanced.

A great example is the brand’s 5D Hyaluronic Acid Intensive Serum, a richer spin on its original Dive-In Serum that helps extend hydration for up to 72 hours (instead of the usual 48). The lightweight formula uses a five-layer complex of hyaluronic acid, with different molecular sizes that deliver moisture at multiple levels of the skin. It’s also packed with soothing ingredients like panthenol and allantoin to help keep skin calm and comfortable. Our tester especially loved the super-silky texture for the extra slip it gives, a reminder that K-beauty brands are always finding new ways to make hydration feel a little more pampering.

Torriden Dive In 5D Hyaluronic Acid Toner Pads in branded tub component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Torriden

Dive In 5D Hyaluronic Acid Toner Pads

$26 $18 (31% off)

Amazon

$26

Sephora

Torriden Dive In Sheet Mask in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Torriden

Dive In Sheet Mask

$33 $20 (39% off)

Amazon

$35

Olive Young

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I trust buying Korean skin-care products online?

Buying K-beauty products online can be perfectly safe, as long as you’re mindful about where you’re shopping and who the seller is. These products are widely available through online retailers, including Amazon, but it’s worth taking a moment to confirm that the seller is reputable to ensure the products are authentic. Listings, prices, and third-party vendors can change frequently, so the safest bet is to purchase items sold directly by the brand or by Amazon itself (sometimes the seller may appear under a parent company name—for example, I’m From products are sold by Wishtrend). You can also shop through trusted U.S.-based K-beauty retailers like Soko Glam, which carefully curates its selection, or Asia-based sites such as YesStyle and Olive Young. Just keep in mind that orders shipping from overseas may take a little longer to arrive and are subject to tariffs.

Meet the experts

  • Hee Jin Kim, MD, a board-certified internal medicine physician based in Fort Lee, New Jersey
  • Sarah Chung Park, founder and CEO of beauty distributor Landing International and creator of K-Beauty World at Ulta Beauty, based in Los Angeles
  • Joyce Park, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Skin Refinery, based in Washington
  • Jane Yoo, MD, a dual board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon based in New York City

How we test and review products

Before reviewing any makeup, we ask questions about a number of factors: What ingredients are in it? Does the brand offer a wide shade range inclusive of consumers with all skin tones and undertones? Is it safe for readers who have sensitive skin or wear contact lenses? Is it on the affordable side or more of a splurge? Is its packaging consciously designed or needlessly wasteful?

For our review of the best Korean skin-care brands, we enlisted the help of multiple editors, writers, contributors, dermatologists, and makeup artists to review the products. This ensures our testing base spans different skin tones, genders, and dermatological conditions. We considered each product's performance across four primary categories: ingredients, wear and longevity, packaging, and inclusivity. For more on what's involved in our reporting, check out our complete reviews process and methodology page.

Our staff and testers

A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors—in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon—is essential to reaching that goal.

After all, can we really say a skin-care product is the "best" for people over 50 if the only testers we've solicited opinions from folks who have yet to hit 30? Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if it's never been tested on curls? We're proud that our staff spans a wide range of ages, skin tones, hair textures, genders, and backgrounds, which means that we are able to fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet.

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