We’ve all seen it, right? The glowing skin, the endless TikToks, the beauty gurus raving about their 10-step K-beauty routines, promising you’ll wake up with flawless, baby-soft skin. But let’s be real for a minute: with so many products flooding the market, it can be tough to tell what's really worth the hype and what’s just marketing fluff.
As someone in my 30s with combination skin, I’ve tried my fair share of K-beauty products. So, I’m here to share the truth behind the hype — which products live up to the promise and which ones are… well, a little overrated. Grab a seat and let's dive in!
Worth the Hype
These products live up to their name.
BANILA CO Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm
If you’ve ever tried an oil-based cleanser, you know the struggle of finding one that doesn’t leave your skin feeling greasy. The Banila Co Cleansing Balm gently melts away makeup, dirt, and impurities without feeling heavy. It’s a game-changer for makeup lovers like me!
SOME BY MI AHA, BHA, PHA 30 Days Miracle Toner
The name says it all: this toner promises to refine your skin and reduce blemishes in just 30 days. With its gentle exfoliating properties, it's become a staple in my routine for tackling breakouts and improving skin texture.
MISSHA Time Revolution The First Essence
I don’t use a lot of essences, but when I do, Missha Time Revolution is the one I reach for. Packed with probiotics, it helps to balance the skin’s natural moisture levels and give your complexion a beautiful glow. I’ve noticed it makes my skin look more radiant and plump.
COSRX Full Fit Propolis Synergy Toner
This toner is a dream for combination skin! It’s hydrating without being sticky, and the propolis extract helps to calm inflammation. Plus, the price is totally reasonable for the quality you’re getting.
SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Original Line
If you struggle with sensitive skin or redness, this line is for you. The Centella Asiatica helps to soothe and repair your skin while promoting healing. It’s like a gentle hug for your face!
D’Alba Spray Serum
On lazy days (or, let's be honest, every day), I love a multi-tasking product. This spray serum hydrates and nourishes with just a few spritzes.
Overhyped: Are These Really Worth It?
We’ve all seen those products with a cult following. But after testing a few of them myself, I’ve realized they just don’t live up to the hype. Here are some products that, in my humble opinion, are a bit overrated.
Kose Softymo Cleansing Oil
Everyone raves about this one, but I found it a way too heavy for my liking. There are so many other oil cleansers out there that don't feel as heavy and greasy.
Instead Try
SKIN 1004 - Madagascar Centella Cleansing Oil
Anua - Cleansing Oil
Mixsoon - Cleansing Oil
COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence
I know, I know — this one has a huge fanbase. But for me, it didn’t do anything miraculous. My skin didn’t feel any more hydrated or glowy than when I used other essences.
Axis-Y Glow Serum
While I do love a good glow, I wasn’t wowed by this one. It contains some strong ingredients that should work wonders, but for my skin, it didn’t really give me that “wow factor” I was hoping for.
Beauty of Joseon SPF
This sunscreen has been hyped up everywhere, but I found it a bit too sticky. I prefer sunscreens that dry down quickly without leaving a greasy residue, and this one didn’t quite meet my expectations.
Melano CC Vitamin C
Technically J-Beauty (Japanese Beauty), it's still popular in the K-Beauty circles.
Under-Hyped
These are some of my all-time favorite skincare products deserve but I don't think they have gotten the love they deserve. If you're looking to try something new, consider these underrated finds:
Isntree Chestnut BHA 2% Clear Liquid
This BHA toner is a great option for acne-prone skin, offering a gentle exfoliation without the harshness of some other exfoliants. It helps clear pores and reduces breakouts over time.
Ma:nyo Galactomy Peeling Gel
A super underrated product that helps balance skin and refine texture. It’s lightweight yet hydrating, and it works wonders for calming irritation.
Rejuran Turnover Ampoule
This ampoule is perfect for those wanting to target fine lines and improve skin elasticity. It’s a powerhouse of hydration and anti-aging benefits that often flies under the radar.
Neogen Exosome
A cutting-edge ingredient in K-beauty, Exosome has a ton of skin benefits, and this product packs it in a soothing, replenishing formula.
Son&Park Beauty Water
Known as a 2-in-1 product (toner and cleanser), it’s the perfect addition to your morning routine for a quick refresh. It’s gentle but effective in clearing away dead skin cells and excess oil.
Innisfree Black Tea Youth Enhancing Essence & Ampoule
These products are full of antioxidants, helping to protect skin from environmental stressors while keeping it youthful and hydrated. They’re super underrated for their anti-aging properties.
Jumiso Glow Serum
For a glowing complexion, this vitamin-rich serum does wonders. It’s not as hyped as other glow serums, but it definitely gets the job done with a bright, dewy finish.
Isntree Onion Newpair SPF
A stellar option for those seeking sun protection with added skincare benefits, this SPF combines the power of antioxidants and UV defense without the greasy feeling.
Neogen Bakuchiol Oil
This gentle alternative to retinol is perfect for those with sensitive skin who still want anti-aging benefits. It hydrates while fighting fine lines and wrinkles.
Final Thoughts
Korean skincare products have earned their reputation for good reason, but not every product is a home run. Whether you’re looking to hydrate, brighten, or protect, the right K-beauty product can make all the difference in your routine. I hope this list helps you navigate the world of Korean skincare and find the products that are truly worth your investment.
For more in-depth skincare tips, reviews, and recommendations, don’t forget to explore more of my posts. Your skin deserves the best, and I’m here to help you find it!
Got your own favorite K-beauty products or thoughts on the ones I’ve mentioned? Let me know in the comments!
If you enjoyed this post, be sure to check out more skincare advice, tips, and product breakdowns in my other blog posts!
P.S.: I’m an affiliate with YesStyle, so if you purchase through my link or use my discount code MAKANANI2, I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you!) It helps me continue to bring you honest reviews and recommendations.
コメント