Beauty of Joseon Skincare: A Deep Dive into Products
IN THIS ARTICLE
 There's no question that the Beauty of Joseon sunscreen has made waves in the skincare arena. Its popularity stems from its lightweight feel, potent protection, and cost-effectiveness. However, Beauty of Joseon extends its offerings beyond that—offering an array of budget-friendly skincare products that deserve more recognition. As a skincare aficionado, I present to you some of the finest selections from their range.
Navigating Retinoids
Allow me to kick things off with the underappreciated gem from Beauty of Joseon – the Revive Eye Serum Ginseng and Retinol. Despite being an eye cream, many have adopted it as a face serum. The product’s appeal lies in its potent retinol content, the most powerful vitamin A derivative found in over-the-counter skincare.
This product is unique in the Korean skincare market, boasting retinol among its ingredients. This serum, with its generous retinol content, is one of the most cost-effective options you can find. The retinol component, constituting 0.02%, is encapsulated in liposomes for controlled, gentle delivery to the skin. The blend also includes soothing elements like niacinamide, ginseng, vitamin E, and adenosine, all working to counteract potential irritation and offer anti-wrinkle benefits.
While it is known as one of the gentlest retinol-based products, skin sensitivity can still occur. For retinoid novices or those with sensitive skin, I've created a tutorial on introducing your skin to retinoids gradually. With proper application—no more than a pea-sized amount—I've found I can use this serum daily. The fragrance-free attribute of this product is a godsend for those sensitive to fragrances and often struggle to find compatible K-beauty products.
Embrace Fragrance-Free with Beauty of Joseon
This brings us to the Radiance Cleansing Balm—another fragrance-free gem. Cleansing balms, particularly those that melt makeup and sunscreen effortlessly, have a special place in my routine. The joy I derive from massaging my face while removing makeup at day's end is unparalleled. For those in search of fragrance-free cleansing balms with smooth textures and easy rinse-off, this product is a rare find.
Indeed, the unique feature of this fragrance-free cleansing product is its mild, almost imperceptible scent, not commonly found in similar items. It retains the typical, effortlessly smooth texture of most Korean cleansing balms, making it ideal for those with fragrance-sensitive skin without any significant trade-offs. The container features a convenient flip-top lid, adding ease to your routine, especially when hands are slippery from oil. Provided is a spatula, though for those, like myself, who derive pleasure in plunging a finger into the depth of the balm… the choice is yours.
Discovering the Perfect Cleanser: Introducing Green Plum Refreshing Cleanser
Let's now discuss the Green Plum Refreshing Cleanser. This is a perfect example of a non-aggressive cleanser that effectively cleans while maintaining the integrity of your skin, preparing it well for ensuing skincare steps. It lathers well and doesn't dehydrate your skin, making it one of the most moisturizing cleansers I've encountered. No skin tightening after usage, and it is enriched with antioxidants that can potentially help lessen cleansing related irritation. Plus, the slightly acidic pH matches your skin's natural pH.
Many Korean foaming cleaners produce extraordinary fluffy, dense foam, often correlated with a high pH, which could be harsh on skin that is prone to dehydration, much like mine. Although this cleanser requires a bit more effort to achieve a fluffy lather, in comparison to its drying counterparts, it's a worthy trade-off. The relief I experience with hydrating cleansers is indescribable as it lessens the need for additional hydrating serums to restore your skin to its baseline before applying the rest of your skincare regimen. This too, is a fragrance-free cleanser, making it an excellent choice for those with fragrance intolerances.
Understanding The Role of Sunscreen in Skincare
Now, let's touch on the Relief Sun Rice and Probiotics, a product that needs no introduction if you are familiar with Beauty of Joseon. This is the most buzzed-about sunscreen currently and my personal favorite. Despite being a Korean formulated sunscreen not yet approved in other countries, it's lightweight and moisturizing, which I find most beneficial, considering the drying effects of retinoids I’m using.
The texture is delightfully smooth and creamy, thanks to one of Korea's leading sunscreen manufacturers. It leaves a slight white cast initially which disappears if left undisturbed for about 10 minutes. A downside of this product's popularity is the emergence of counterfeit versions on platforms like Amazon. Therefore, I strongly advice purchasing from an official retailer.
Peeling Gels: Gentle Physical Exfoliation
Let me introduce you to a hidden gem in the skincare realm, the Apricot Blossom Peeling Gel. It's perplexing to me why peeling gels don't garner the appreciation they genuinely deserve. Over the past decade or so, I've incorporated a peeling gel into my skincare routine, and the results have been remarkable. Now, before you jump to conclusions, let me clarify that peeling gels are an incredibly gentle form of physical exfoliation.
The unfortunate reputation of physical exfoliants largely stems from misuse and overuse, with many people employing rough scrubs and harsh cleansing brushes in their fight against acne. The aftermath? Exasperated, inflamed skin. However, the key to harnessing the power of physical exfoliation lies in moderation and gentleness. Enter peeling gels.
Peeling gels are crafted with the softest cellulose fibers, mimicking the texture of wet tissues. When applied, the oil on your skin causes the fibers to clump together into soft, scrubbing particles. Please note that these are not dead skin cells, as some products misleadingly advertise. The soft fibers expertly slough off dead skin cells, even in hard-to-reach areas like around the nose, without causing any abrasion.
While it's possible to cause irritation with peeling gels if you scrub too hard, the likelihood is significantly less compared to traditional scrubs. I personally adore them for their ability to gently buff away dry flakes around my nose, particularly when I'm dealing with a cold or allergies, and foundation just seems to spotlight these flakes. Gently applying a peeling gel before makeup application solves this issue efficiently, without the need for any painfully detrimental skin picking.
The Apricot Blossom Peeling Gel is one of the finest I've encountered. Its performance remains unmatched even under the water-heavy conditions of a shower, where many other peeling gels fail to deliver. The absence of any sticky residue and minimal scent, despite being a fragrance-free product, makes it a standout choice in the realm of peeling gels.
The Power of Ginseng Essence Water
In the quest for addressing flaky, irritated skin, a hydrating product is essential. Take, for instance, Ginseng Essence Water. It's a hydrating toner, a staple in Asian skincare famed for its surface-level hydration that leaves no residue. This makes it perfect for use under sunscreen or makeup.
Ideally, this product should be applied right after cleansing as a precursor to any other serums or actives, especially during nighttime routines. It's also a solution for super dehydrated skin, where your normal moisturizer isn't cutting it. Instead of looking for a new moisturizer, simply add this hydrating product to your regimen to enhance hydration.
I've found this product to be incredibly beneficial post cleansing. It prevents my skin from drying out if there's a delay with my other steps. Packed with glycerin and hyaluronic acid, it offers super hydration, leaving your skin feeling plump. The balance it achieves between maximum plumpness and not being sticky is remarkable, although it might vary depending on your skin type and your environment's humidity.
Uniquely, this toner has no extra oil, reducing residues on your skin. Its composition boasts different ginseng extracts rich in antioxidants, along with niacinamide, providing an excellent way to incorporate these ingredients into your routine without added weight or stickiness.
The absence of oil is a boon for summer when your skin needs hydration and relief without the burden of extra oil. It's my go-to moisturizing product during hot weather at nighttime, and I often forgo the moisturizer. It's fragrance-free and odorless.
About the Author: Caolan
With over a decade of international experience, Caolan's passion lies in simplifying the complex. His innovative thinking and audience-first approach have made significant impacts across the creative industries. Now, as the founder of But More Importantly, he applies these talents to the world of cosmetics, aiming to unmask marketing hype and provide readers with the truth about beauty products. His mission: to help you make informed choices and discover what truly enhances your beauty routine.
The Magic of Propolis in Serums
Beauty of Joseon offers a range of serums, and amongst them, the glow serum with propolis and niacinamide is my favorite. It took me some time to appreciate propolis, as I had misconceptions about it being an irritating ingredient. But propolis is soothing and excellent for breakouts, possibly because it originates from plant sap. Bees consume it and convert it into concentrated antioxidants. It's also very hydrating and serves as a humectant.
This serum isn't sticky but has a tacky hydrating texture. It also contains salicylic acid, both excellent at evening out skin tone, adding to the glow effect. This product is ideal when you desire a smooth and even skin tone the next day without the risk of irritation.
If you found this content useful, please like and share your thoughts if you've used any of these products. Thank you for reading, catch you next time.
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