The Power of Korean Skincare: Top Products of 2024
Hello everyone, welcome back to But More Importantly! This will be the final edition in our "Best of 2024" lineup. You've made it this far and for that, I commend you. Today, I'm thrilled to bring you an article dedicated entirely to Korean skincare products, given the countless new brands I've had the pleasure to try throughout the year. I even took a trip to Korea to source brand-new products for this article! I've discovered several Korean skincare gems in 2024 and I thought, why not compile them in a standalone article? So, here we are, set to explore the best Korean skincare products of 2024.
This article will highlight brands that are based in Korea and may require international shipping. Korean-American brands like Krave Beauty and Peach and Lily, have already had their spotlight in my previous articles - be sure to check them out. And remember, by purchasing these products using the links provided in this article, you'd be supporting the continuous experimentation and trials necessary to identify the best products for you.
Our first product, the Beauty of Joseon SPF 50 Stick Sunscreen, took me by surprise. I never expected to find such a love for stick sunscreens, having tried countless American mineral and Korean sunscreens in the past. But the quality of Beauty of Joseon's formula surpasses all others. It's almost too good to be true. This sunscreen stick, suitable for all skin types, is a particular hit for those with oily skin. Infused with green tea oil, turmeric, and a variety of vegetable extracts, this product won my heart with its finish on the skin. It feels invisible, leaving no oily residue or shininess, a common issue I've encountered with many stick sunscreens. Despite looking nice on initial application, many other tend to make your skin shiny as the day progresses — but not this one!
Believe it or not, it’s actually a fantastic mattifying product, eliminating any unwanted shine or oiliness from my face. I am totally smitten with its easy application and incredible ingredients, making it one of my top skincare picks this year.
For those grappling with oily skin, I feel your pain. To help you out, I present to you the iUNIK Tea Tree Relief Serum, a godsend product I rediscovered this year. Its impressive lightweight formula is a lifesaver for those dealing with sensitive skin, irritation, or breakouts. Comprised of key active ingredients like tea tree relief water, centella asiatica water, niacinamide, and a plethora of antioxidants, this serum is fragrance-free, making it ideal for all skin types. Its versatility and effectiveness make it a real standout.
The Merits of SCINIC SPF 50 Gel Sunscreen
Next, let me introduce you to the SCINIC SPF 50 Gel Sunscreen, another gem in the world of sunscreens. I took on a rigorous trial of numerous Korean sunscreens this year, and this one really stood out. Its light, gel-based formula quickly absorbs into the skin, leaving no white cast despite its high sun protection factor. Many skincare nerds have applauded this product for its affordability coupled with its high-quality formulation. It’s a perfect sunscreen for anyone with combination to oily skin.
Etude House Ginger Sugar Overnight Lip Mask
Next, I have to share a recent find that's been doing wonders for my lips - the Etude House Ginger Sugar Overnight Lip Mask. The results are indisputable; every morning, my lips feel thoroughly moisturized and protected. However, this product is not for those seeking a lightweight treatment. Its dense, intense formulation is designed to deliver outstanding results. Without a doubt, this night lip mask is a worthwhile investment for those of us dealing with extremely dry lips. And although it's designed as a night treatment, I've had no problem using it during the day.
Rediscovering the ROVECTIN Clean Lotus Water Cream
Next, let me remind you of the merits of the ROVECTIN clean lotus water cream. I've featured it before, but it deserves another mention here; it's a budget-friendly moisturizer that offers deep hydration without any heaviness. The star ingredient, lotus extract, is normally hard to find in affordable and lightweight products but this one offers remarkable benefits including reducing skin sensitivity, irritation, and signs of premature aging while also providing antioxidant protection. It's been my go-to daily moisturizer all year.
A Treat for Mask Lovers: I'm From Honey Mask
For mask lovers, let me mention the I'm From Honey Mask, which has been fantastic this past year. If you're dealing with dry skin or dehydration, this mask will leave your skin feeling baby-soft. It smells like pure honey and feels indulgent, yet it's fairly priced considering its high-quality formula. While I'm not typically one to advocate for frequent mask usage, there's something unique about this mask that's worth trying.
The Viral Sensation: ISNTREE Watery Sun Gel
Now, I have to talk about your favorite — the ISNTREE Watery Sun Gel. This viral sensation on TikTok is technically a sunscreen, but it also doubles as a moisturizer for those with combination to dry skin. It offers a lightweight texture and boosts your skin's glow with hyaluronic acid, making it the perfect companion for when you're traveling over the holidays.
Perfect Balance: Beauty of Joseon SPF 50 Sunscreen
The Beauty of Joseon SPF 50 sunscreen is another must-have — the one in the tube, not the stick. It's incredibly lightweight, and easy to carry wherever you go. It offers great sun protection and hydrates your skin without feeling heavy or greasy. It's the perfect balance between the ISNTREE one and the SCINIC one, making it ideal for combination skin. Plus, it contains 30% rice bran extract, niacinamide, and green tea extract, providing soothing and hydrating benefits without any white cast or greasy residue.
Lightweight Wonders: iUNIK Centella Calming Gel Cream and Numbuzin Calming Water Sunscreen
I can't forget about the iUNIK Centella Calming Gel Cream. I rediscovered it a few months ago and have been recommending it ever since. It's a great value and incredibly lightweight. If you're looking for lightweight skincare products, Korean skincare truly leads the way – light, luxurious, and laden with ingredients like centella that soothe sensitive skin. This moisturizer, for instance, imparts a cooling sensation without leaving any oily residue, earning my solid recommendation for those with oily or sensitive skin types. It's a must-add to the best Korean skincare products of 2024.
Recently, I discovered the Numbuzin Calming Water Sunscreen while in Korea, and I was astounded by its feather-light consistency – it's as if you're not wearing anything at all. The formula is a potent mix of antioxidants such as Houttuynia Cordata Extract, Licorice Root Extract, Centella Asiatica, and Maticasticide, which not only calm the skin but also help fight dark spots and premature aging. If you're seeking a comprehensive sunscreen solution that extends beyond basic protection to address various skin concerns, this sunscreen is it. It's unequivocally top-notch.
I know I've gone overboard with the product recommendations, but such is the allure of Korean skincare. If you wish to purchase any of the products mentioned in this article, you can do so by clicking on the links above. I'm thrilled to share these discoveries with you, and I'm confident you'll find something that fits your skincare needs and budget. My aim remains the same - to share products that you will adore as much as I do. I am deeply thankful for your continued support and enthusiasm. Stay tuned for our next exciting article.
About the Author: Caolan
With over a decade of international experience, Caolan's passion lies in simplifying the complex. As the founder of But More Importantly, he applies this talent 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.
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