Exploring the Best in Korean Skincare
IN THIS ARTICLE
Have you ever experienced the magic of Korean sunscreens? They're simply phenomenal. Brands like Beauty of Joseon and HaruHaru dominate the market, and emerging players are equally promising. But you might wonder, what makes Korean skincare products stand out? It boils down mainly to three factors.
First, the formulations are notably gentle, focusing on hydrating and maintaining the skin barrier instead of relying heavily on potent actives. Even when addressing issues like acne or hyperpigmentation, this gentleness remains a priority. Secondly, these products are exceptionally affordable, thanks to large Korean companies that manage the production for several brands, reducing costs significantly. The extensive research they conduct reduces the financial burden on brands, translating into more affordable end products for consumers.
Thirdly, the technological advancements in the Korean skincare industry are unparalleled, especially in the realm of sunscreens. Unfortunately, US sunscreens haven't evolved much since 1999, making Korean, Japanese, and even European sunscreens far more advanced and superior.
The Beauty of Joseon Line: Sunscreen Stick, Pore Mask, and Red Bean Serum
Now, let's consider a prime example – the Relief Sun Rice and Probiotic sunscreen. This product has set the internet ablaze with its SPF 50 rating, glowy finish, and ultra-light feel. It's a widely celebrated product across various social media platforms.
In addition to that, we have a newly launched product, the Matte Sunstick Mugwort and Camellia. This sun stick is a collaboration with Ramon, a cosmetic chemist, product developer, and popular YouTube influencer. The application is smooth, with soft blurring properties akin to a makeup primer, reducing pore visibility and leaving the skin less shiny. It's an exciting addition to the Korean skincare catalog. Try it for yourself!
Applying the product to my skin, you can immediately notice the mattifying effect due to silica. This ingredient helps eliminate shine, leaving you with a soft, matte finish akin to baby's skin. Complimenting the mugwort and camellia, it also contains green tea, eggplant, aloe extract, and it applies smoothly without any chalkiness or streaks. Once applied, it's ideal for days when you want to appear fresh without any makeup, reducing oiliness and excessive shine without the need for powdering. Interestingly, it also works as an excellent primer if you plan to apply CC cream foundation.
However, for maximum SPF 50 protection, lab muffin advises applying more than you'd think. A mere single layer, contrary to what many influencers suggest, provides just SPF 10 or 15 coverage. To achieve the full SPF 50 protection from a sunscreen stick, you need to apply at least four complete layers. This sunscreen stick is a breeze to use, particularly recommended for those with oily or combination skin, especially in the T-zone area. The other two additions from the Beauty of Joseon line are their Red Bean serum and Refreshing Pore Mask.
Let's focus on the Pore Mask first. Each application leaves my skin brighter, and it helps draw out excess sebum from the pores, reducing their appearance. It's the softest and most flexible clay mask I've ever used. The mask's clay component, kaolin, suits all skin types well. It's not excessively drying but does an excellent job absorbing oil. The mask's scent reminds me of apple, coming from pear fruit extract, apple leaf extract, and strawberry fruit extract. After application, your skin feels as soft as a baby's.
Now, about the Red Bean serum.The Red Bean Water Gel is perfect for those with oily skin, given its optimal gel cream texture. It almost feels like a serum but with added moisture. It contains 44 percent red bean extract and three types of peptides to strengthen the skin barrier. It also contains saponins, which help absorb sebum and provide gentle exfoliation, so this gel cream is ideal for those with oily and combination skin.
First Impressions on Numbuzin: A Review
Finally, let's talk about Numbuzin. Numbuzin stands out as an honest and effective skincare brand. One product that really took me by surprise is a gel with a consistency that is anything but ordinary.
The Numbuzin No 5 Blemish Serum didn't meet my initial expectations. I found it overly moisturizing even with just one to two pumps, attributing that to a potential high oil content. It has a subtle citrus aroma, which led me to discover three forms of vitamin C in the ingredients. These include Ascorbyl Glucoside, Ascorbic Acid, and 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid. Additionally, it contains C. buxon, a natural source of vitamin C, along with lemon peel oil, lime oil, and orange peel oil. These ingredients are known for their nourishing and brightening properties. The product has positive reviews on Amazon with an average rating of 4 out of 5.
In comparison to another product, the Numbuzin No 7 Soothing Serum, the former stands out for its skin-evening capabilities. While the latter didn't effectively reduce redness on my skin, it served as a great barrier healing serum especially after excessive use of retinols or chemical exfoliants. Additionally, it contains ingredients known for hydration such as tremella and shiitake mushrooms.
Highlights of HaruHaru and the P.Calm Line
The brand HaruHaru's new product, a Centella 3 percent PHA Gentle Liquid Exfoliant, is excellent for blackheads, whiteheads, and textured skin. It works by breaking down dead skin that causes dullness and clogged pores. Unlike BHA, this is a gentler form of exfoliant, suited for daily use. The product also features a patented 'anti-sebum P' ingredient that controls oil levels to prevent pore congestion.
Lastly, there's P.CALM, designed specifically for acne-prone and sensitive skin. The standout product here is their milky toner, which feels soothing on the face. The toner is fortified with patented biotech ingredients, Nectaria Lithops and Lumesis, alongside tranexamic acid, niacinamide, and glutathione for skin brightening and evening out complexion.
The Secrets of Korean Skincare
These ingredients are scientifically validated for their skin-enhancing, brightening, and beautifying effects. Take tranexamic acid, for example, it has the ability to rebalance your skin, imparting a radiant glow while maintaining calmness. I haven't come across any other product quite like it. This is why certain products truly excite me and why this brand is quickly becoming one of my favorites.
Goodal's Serum Reformulation
To end, I'd like to mention Goodal. Specifically, I want to touch on the reformulation of their popular Vitamin C serum. They've essentially amplified the brightening capacity of the product by adding centella asiatica and niacinamide. The serum has a super luxurious feel when applied to the skin and I think it's an excellent introduction to the world of brightening and hydrating Korean serums. Their entire line, including the mask, gel, cream, and serum, is fantastic.
In a future article, I will be discussing how to revitalize your skincare routine if you have combination, acne-prone, or oily skin. We'll be exploring a brand we've talked about before, who've just launched something new. Plus, we'll have a special giveaway—feel free to speculate on what that might be! If you're new to the But More Importantly family, welcome! Until next time, take care.
About the Author: Caolan
With over a decade of international experience, Caolan's passion lies in simplifying the complex. 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.
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