19 Best Korean Beauty, Skincare Products In 2024
We tried and tested the viral snail face cream and can confirm, it truly "lives up to hype" for giving you "perfect skin".
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Korean beauty – also known as K-beauty – plays a huge part in the skincare and makeup world. Products you may use everyday – like BB cream and sheet masks – originated in the K-beauty market and it’s known for being incredibly innovative.
While there are hundreds of K-beauty products available, they generally share three guiding principles; a laser focus on skin health, a commitment to providing maximum hydration and a goal of achieving the brightest and smoothest skin imaginable.
You’ll also notice that K-beauty products are often formulated with natural ingredients where possible – think snail mucin, green tea, aloe vera and rice extracts.
NOTE TO READER: Prices have been slashed on a range of hot K-Beauty products for Prime Day 2024. These are guaranteed to sell out fast, so jump on these top sales picks before they're gone:
- 24 per cent off COSRX Snail Mucin 96% Power Repairing Essence, $12.99 (down from $16.99)
- 64 per cent off COSRX Snail 92% All in One Cream, $15.49 (down from $43) - 28,000 shoppers say the cult cream left them 'pleasantly surprised' at how 'plump and glowy' their skin became.
- 37 per cent off COSRX Snail Peptide Eye Cream, $34.45 (down from $55)
- 38 per cent off COSRX 6X Peptide Collagen Booster Toner Serum, $33.92 (down from $55)
- 23 per cent off Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask, $24 (down from $31)
- 42 per cent off Beauty of Joseon Ginseng Essence Water, $20.40 (down from $35)
- 39 per cent off d'Alba Italian White Truffle First Spray Serum, $25.59 (down from $42)
- 14 per cent off numbuzin No.3 Skin Softening Serum, $25.25 (down from $29.30)
- 11 per cent off Mediheal Vitamide Brightening Pads, $34.52 (down from $39)
- 16 per cent off Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum, $27.80 (down from $33)
- 13 per cent off Beauty of Joseon Revive Eye Serum, $28.71 (down from $33)
So if you’re on the hunt for the best K-beauty products to add to your skincare routine, here's our roundup of the best Korean Korean beauty products you can buy in Australia, based on our own tried and tested experience.
EDITOR'S PICKS: BEST KOREAN BEAUTY PRODUCTS
COSRX Advanced Snail 92 All In One Cream, $15.49 (down from $43) at Amazon Australia
Why we love it: It's affordable and has an immediate effect on the skin.
What to consider: The texture may turn some users away.
Formula: Cream | Size: 100g | Skin type: All skin types, especially sensitive skin.
Tried and Tested by Harriet Amurao, news.com.au checkout Shopping Writer
When I say this cream lives up the hype, I truly mean it. As someone with dry and sensitive skin, this highly-regarded cream is hydrating, gentle and soothing - which is exactly what I look for in all of my skincare.
To address the elephant in the room, yes, this product is in fact made from snail secretion and as gross as it sounds, this cream works wonders so it basically cancels out the weirdness… right? Snail secretion (or mucin) is actually really beneficial in moisturising and healing your skin barrier, and reducing signs of ageing.
Although it has a goopy and snotty texture, it blends out into a lightweight watery texture that doesn’t feel heavy or greasy on the skin at all and absorbs into the skin effortlessly. It also has a very subtle scent that isn’t overwhelming.
I’ve been using it for a few weeks - morning and night, and my skin has noticeably been more plump, hydrated and glowy with less redness. A little goes a long way with this guy so it’s totally worth the price, and it works great as a base for your make up too.
The COSRX All in One Snail Cream is genuinely a game-changer and truly deserves a spot in your staple skincare routine. So don’t let the idea of snail mucin put you off from trying out this holy grail product.
P.S. I love using this after I go in with the matching COSRX Snail Mucin Essence to really reap the benefits of snail mucin!
COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence, $12.99 (down from $38) at Amazon Australia
Why we love it: The budget-friendly price point is an easy addition to anyone's skincare routine.
What to consider: Similar to the matching cream, the texture may not be everyone's cup of tea.
Formula: Serum | Size: 100ml | Skin type: All skin types, especially sensitive skin.
Tried and Tested by Harriet Amurao, news.com.au checkout Shopping Writer
If you’ve seen this all over your TikTok FYP, you’re on the right side of TikTok. Just like the popular COSRX All in One Snail Cream, this essence is made from snail secretion and has gained quite the reputation among many beauty lovers including myself.
The texture is quite goopy and glue-like but watery and it’s incredibly lightweight, has no strong scent and absorbs easily into the skin within seconds. It feels silky smooth upon application and does not feel heavy which is great for layering with other skincare products.
Hydrating enough to use alone or topped up with a moisturiser, this essence is very soothing and calming for sensitive skin and provides instant hydration. When using it in conjunction with the COSRX All in One Snail Cream, I’m left with healthier and plumper skin that feels as smooth as a baby’s butt.
I can truly see why the COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence has such a loyal following - it’s amazing, affordable and truly does wonders for my skin especially when paired with the COSRX All in One Snail Cream.
Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask, $24 (down from $31) at Amazon Australia
Why we love it: This highly-rated lip mask is super nourishing and comes in loads of different flavours.
What to consider: Some users do not like the tub packaging as it can be unhygienic.
Formula: Cream | Size: 20g | Skin type: All skin types.
Tried and Tested by Claudia Coy, news.com.au checkout Social Media Producer
I've struggled with dry lips for as long as I can remember. I've tried upping my water intake, I tried every paw paw ointment on the market & once I even tried exfoliating them with a toothbrush at night (please don't do this, it's awful for your skin). So when our beauty expert asked me to try this new viral 'lip sleeping mask' I immediately jumped at the chance.
When I tell you the love story that has since occurred between me and my Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask... this is a game-changing product. I'd almost given up and accepted that I was going to have dry lips for the rest of my life but this product has resurrected my lips and made them ridiculously soft.
You just apply a small amount at night after brushing your teeth, sleep with it on (as the name suggests) and wake up with smooth lips. There's no icky residue in the morning, in fact it's almost like it was never there at all - except now your lips feel just like a silk pillowcase.
Laneige Water Sleeping Mask, $48 at Adore Beauty
Why we love it: This sleeping mask locks in hydration and moisture so you wake up with glowing skin.
What to consider: Some users do not like the scent.
Formula: Gel cream | Size: 70ml | Skin type: All skin types.
Tried and Tested by Tahnee-Jae Lopez-Vito, news.com.au checkout Shopping Writer
I know the phrase ‘holy grail’ can get overused when talking about beauty, but the Laneige Water Sleeping Mask really does fit the bill. I love how this overnight miracle worker makes my skin look and feel super hydrated and refreshed by the next morning. A small amount of product goes a long way, and it doesn’t take weeks before results start to appear.
BEST K-BEAUTY CLEANSERS
Banila Co Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm Original, $32 at Adore Beauty
Why we love it: This balm to oil cleansing balm is super gentle on the skin.
What to consider: Some users with sensitive skin did not enjoy this product.
Formula: Balm to oil | Size: 100ml | Skin type: All skin types.
Tried and Tested by Philippa Tonkin, news.com.au checkout Shopping Writer
Ok, I think this is my new favourite. I've used a ton of cleaning balms and oils throughout my time and have always thought they were much of the same. If they got my makeup off, then I was happy. But this one truly changed the game. It was so gentle on my skin and got rid of even the most stubborn mascara with almost no effort at all from me. This is one product I will 100 per cent be keeping in my regular routine.
Beauty of Joseon Ginseng Cleansing Oil, $29.99 (down from $32) at Amazon Australia
Why we love it: Affordable price point for a product that's going to last you ages.
What to consider: Some users claim it left a film on their skin.
Formula: Oil | Size: 210ml | Skin type: All skin types.
Tried and Tested by Marina Tatas, news.com.au checkout Shopping Writer
As a dedicated double cleanser, I’ve used a lot of different cleansing oils and balms on the market. I’ve specifically heard tonnes about this one over on TikTok, and sitting at an affordable $30, I thought why not give it a go. It’s a lightweight yet super nourishing oil that easily removes my makeup and sunscreen, without leaving a weird film on my skin or leaving it feeling dry and tight. This is a great buy, especially if you’re looking to start double cleansing without breaking the bank.
BEST K-BEAUTY TONERS AND SERUMS
Sulwhasoo First Care Activating Serum, $146 at Adore Beauty
Why we love it: An extra skincare step that feels super luxurious and enhances the rest of your skincare routine.
What to consider: Does not sit at an affordable price point.
Formula: Serum | Size: 90ml | Skin type: All skin types.
Tried and Tested by Marina Tatas, news.com.au checkout Shopping Writer
Now this is unlike anything you've ever used in your skincare routine. The Sulwhasoo First Care Activating Serum is a first step serum - so you use it after you cleanse and before any other serums - to prep the skin and enhance absorption of other products.
Suitable for all skin types, this works hard to hydrate, nourish and firm the skin. This is my second bottle and when I incorporate this into my skincare routine, I notice my complexion has more of that "glass" appearance. While it is pricey, if you do have the coin to spend, I would highly recommend this one.
SOME BY MI AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Toner, $37 at Adore Beauty
Why we love it: Fantastic toner for users with acne prone, textured skin.
What to consider: Sensitive skin types will have to use this with caution.
Formula: Toner | Size: 150ml | Skin type: All skin types.
Tried and Tested by Harriet Amurao, news.com.au checkout Shopping Writer
I’m quite hesitant when it comes to exfoliating toners as I have sensitive skin, however, I have really been liking the Some By Mi AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Toner.
I’m not going to lie, the name did worry me - AHA, BHA and PHA in one toner? That sounds like a sensitive skin person’s nightmare but much to my surprise, this toner is actually incredibly gentle as it has a low pH and does not irritate or sting my skin at all.
In fact, it does a great job at exfoliating my skin to reveal a brighter and healthier complexion, minimises and unclogs my pores, and makes my skin texture look and feel smoother. This toner has a clear watery consistency and glides smoothly on the skin, it has a subtle minty scent and absorbs quite quickly.
I like to use it on an “every other night” basis and put a few dabs of the toner onto a cotton pad (a little goes a long way) then gently wipe my face and pat it in after to really make sure my skin absorbs it.
The Some By Mi AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Toner has clearly received rave reviews and for good reason. It’s a great and affordable K-beauty product that is gentle yet effective, and a good choice for those with sensitive skin.
I'm From Rice Toner, $30 (down from $46) at Amazon Australia
Why we love it: Great hydrating product that's made for sensitive skin types.
What to consider: Some users did not see a massive difference to their skin after using this product.
Formula: Toner | Size: 150ml | Skin type: All skin types, especially sensitive skin.
Tried and Tested by Philippa Tonkin, news.com.au checkout Shopping Writer
Containing 77.8 per cent rice extract, this toner is so gentle and hydrating. It feels amazing on the skin. Designed to brighten the appearance of skin tone and texture as well as aiding with removing dead skin cells, it left my skin feeling and looking so soft. While I wouldn't necessarily say I noticed a huge difference in the radiance of my skin, it definitely does feel a lot healthier.
KLAIRS Midnight Blue Youth Activating Drop, $36.80 (down from $46) at Amazon Australia
Why we love it: Incredibly soothing and calming essence that works hard to hydrate and plump the skin.
What to consider: Some users did not like how small the bottle is, and found the watery consistency a little hard to apply.
Formula: Essence | Size: 20ml | Skin type: All skin types.
Tried and Tested by Melody Teh, news.com.au checkout Deputy Editor
This is unlike any serum I’ve tried before. First of all, it’s blue which to be honest, concerned me when I first used it but the colour is due to the ingredient Guaiazulene, a pure ingredient that naturally changes colour but is great at soothing and repairing skin. Secondly, it’s very watery and thin, the consistency is more like an essence than a serum. It makes it a little difficult to apply so I’d advise you to squeeze drops onto your palm and pat onto skin, rather than straight onto your face. However, the watery serum is super absorbent and my skin soaks it right up. Filled with peptides, this anti-ageing serum feels lovely on the skin; it’s incredibly soothing and calming, making it particularly good for people with sensitive skin. I’ve been using this for about a month and my skin’s complexion is much brighter and plumper. It’s also helped my skin’s texture and I feel like I’ve got noticeably less fine lines - big win!
KLAIRS Freshly Juiced Vitamin Drop, $31.20 at Amazon Australia
Why we love it: Easy to see an improvement to your skin texture and overall complexion while using this.
What to consider: Some users claim the product oxidised soon after opening, and turned yellow.
Formula: Oil | Size: 35ml | Skin type: All skin types, especially sensitive skin.
Tried and Tested by Philippa Tonkin, news.com.au checkout Shopping Writer
Say goodbye to the dreaded vit C purge. We've all been there before when we've tried a new product and before our skin gets better, it gets worse. Of course, this is something we've just expected and usually work through. But with this Klairs Vitamin C, I had no issues at all. It's more of an oil consistency than other Vitamin C products I've used before so I simply just pat a few drops into my skin each morning. In the only short time that I've been using it so far, I've noticed a slight improvement in the appearance of my skin so I'm looking forward to seeing what it can do with even more time.
Dr.G Red Blemish Clear Soothing Toner, $83.35 for a pack of two at OLIVE YOUNG
Why we love it: This is a hydrating, soothing and repairing toner.
What to consider: Not an essential part of your skincare routine.
Formula: Toner | Size: 300ml | Skin type: All skin types.
Tried and Tested by Tahnee-Jae Lopez-Vito, news.com.au checkout Shopping Writer
I absolutely love the Dr.G skincare line and their Red Blemish range is really great for my sensitive acne prone skin. Whenever my skin is looking irritated, I try to calm it down by cutting down the products to just this toner, a foamy cleanser and moisturiser.
goodal Green Tangerine Vita C Dark Spot Care Serum, $47.45 at Beauty Amora
Why we love it: This is a highly-rated brightening serum for all skin types.
What to consider: Some users did not like the scent.
Formula: Serum | Size: 50ml | Skin type: All skin types.
Tried and Tested by Tahnee-Jae Lopez-Vito, news.com.au checkout Shopping Writer
For me, Goodal’s Green Tangerine range has been the only vitamin C line that has lightened any dark spots from acne, particularly the Vita C Dark Spot Care Serum. It’s pretty lightweight and not greasy either, which is a bonus.
BEST K-BEAUTY MOISTURISERS
Laneige Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Cream, $60 at Adore Beauty
Why we love it: The upgraded formula is intensely hydrating and repairing.
What to consider: Some users did not like the fragrance.
Formula: Cream | Size: 50ml | Skin type: All skin types.
Tried and Tested by Claudia Coy, news.com.au checkout Social Media Producer
I'd already fallen in love with the Laneige brand (after trying the Lip Sleeping Mask and seen incredible results) so I knew the power of their products. This Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Cream is no exception.
A few weeks ago I went for a facial and the clinician told me my skin was severely dehydrated and needed some extra love* (*hydration) so this Water Bank came at the perfect time.
The consistency is super silky and lightweight and glides right over your skin without leaving any kind of tacky residue. I noticed a difference in just a few days - my skin felt more plump and softer than normal plus the moisturiser created the perfect base for my make up (some moisturisers in the past have contributed to make up pilling, which is not cute).
I'd recommend the Water Bank to anyone with dry / combination skin, it really does add that little extra love your skin might be needing.
KLAIRS Freshly Juiced Vitamin E Mask, $41.33 at Beauty Amora
Why we love it: This multi-tasking product works as a moisturiser, treatment or overnight mask.
What to consider: Some users did not like the texture.
Formula: Moisturiser | Size: 90ml | Skin type: All skin types, especially sensitive skin.
Tried and Tested by Marina Tatas, news.com.au checkout Shopping Writer
Don’t let the name fool you – the Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin E Mask does not have to actually be used as a mask. I tried and tested this product myself, using it as my daytime moisturiser and I absolutely fell in love with it. If you’re longing for glossy skin, this is the product for you.
It’s formulated with vitamin C and vitamin E to drastically improve the appearance of your skin. You’re left with a smooth, hydrated and brighter complexion, and who doesn’t want that?
Anua Birch 70 Moisture Boosting Cream, $41.21 at Yesstyle
Why we love it: This is a highly-rated face cream that deeply hydrates the skin.
What to consider: This thick cream should be used sparingly.
Formula: Cream | Size: 50ml | Skin type: All skin types.
Tried and Tested by Tahnee-Jae Lopez-Vito, news.com.au checkout Shopping Writer
I bought this Anua moisturiser on a trip to South Korea after seeing so many shoppers reach for the brand. It’s super moisturising and a small dollop goes a long way, and doesn’t feel as heavy as I thought it would on the skin considering how thick the cream is when you scoop it out. If you’re keen to try it out, I recommend starting off with a small amount and gradually applying more if needed.
BEST K-BEAUTY MASKS
MEDIHEAL Placenta Essential Mask, $30 at Amazon Australia
Why we love it: Budget-friendly price point for a moisturising sheet mask.
What to consider: Not an essential part of your skincare routine.
Formula: Sheet mask | Size: Can be purchased single or in a pack of 10 | Skin type: All skin types.
Tried and Tested by Tahnee-Jae Lopez-Vito, news.com.au checkout Shopping Writer
For moisturising masks that don’t break the bank, these MEDIHEAL masks are a gem. They make my skin feel super smooth as well as look more refreshed and plump.
INNISFREE Super Volcanic Pore Clay Mask, $39.23 at Yesstyle
Why we love it: Does a great job at minimising the appearance of pores and absorbing excess oil.
What to consider: May not be suitable for dry skin types.
Formula: Mask | Size: 100ml | Skin type: Most skin types.
Tried and Tested by Tahnee-Jae Lopez-Vito, news.com.au checkout Shopping Writer
I love a good mask and this one from Innisfree is on my go-to list. It’s a great option that gives a nice deep clean and makes my face feel refreshed and less greasy and gross, especially when my skin is particularly oily and my pores are quite clogged.
INNISFREE Green Barley Gommage Peeling Mask, $18 at Adore Beauty
Why we love it: Affordable price point for an exfoliating face mask.
What to consider: Some users did not experience a dramatic difference after using this face mask.
Formula: Mask | Size: 120ml | Skin type: All skin types.
Tried and Tested by Tahnee-Jae Lopez-Vito, news.com.au checkout Shopping Writer
I have sensitive skin and this Innisfree mask is great for gently exfoliating dead skin cells and getting smooth skin without the irritation and overly dry and tight feel.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING K-BEAUTY PRODUCTS
When choosing what K-beauty skincare products to include in our list, we evaluated several factors:
Price: When it comes to skincare, you can find great products at both price points, high and low.
Skin type: To get the best out of your skincare routine, you're going to want to make sure the products you use are meant for your skin type - whether that be oily skin, dry skin, normal skin or combination skin.
Accessibility: Some Korean beauty products can be hard to find, and are only available at certain online stores.
Age: Depending on your age, you may want different results from your skincare products.
HOW WE CHOOSE PRODUCTS
With hundreds of products available, it’s impossible to test every one out there. To help you find the best Korean beauty products we tested a bunch of well-known and viral products at different price points. In addition, our shopping team read hundreds of customer reviews and looked at test results and ratings from product review sites to find the best Korean skincare picks for you. We also spoke to Sadaf Razi, Senior Beauty Editor at Adore Beauty, for her expert advice in all things K-beauty.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT IS K-BEAUTY?
According to Sadaf Razi, Senior Beauty Editor at Adore Beauty, the main principle behind Korean beauty and skincare is "achieving dewy, hydrated and glowy skin by way of hydration and well-ageing ingredients".
Think terms like dolphin skin and glass skin.
A K-beauty skincare regimen often calls for a "multi-step approach", and their products are also "loved and known for their for their capabilities of slowing down accelerated signs of ageing", she added.
WHAT DOES A KOREAN SKINCARE ROUTINE LOOK LIKE?
If you want to take your routine to the next level – and love the idea of doing your routine for 30 minutes – you’re going to want to know all about the Korean 10-step skincare routine. Here’s what it involves.
- Makeup remover and oil/balm cleanser
- Water or foam based cleanser
- Exfoliant
- Toner
- Essence
- Treatments and serums
- Sheet mask
- Eye cream
- Moisturiser
- SPF in the morning or thicker cream/sleeping mask at night
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE MUST-HAVE K-BEAUTY INGREDIENTS YOU NEED IN YOUR SKINCARE ROUTINE?
Of course if you don't have the time for a 10-step skincare routine, these are the ingredients Sadaf recommends you include to still get the same benefits from the K-beauty principles.
"Hyaluronic acid is a great hydrating ingredient that gives you plumper skin. Ginseng, which is my personal favourite, is known for supercharging well-ageing K-beauty products," she said.
"And finally snail mucin helps promote collagen and elastin production. It’s also great for moisturising and hydrating the skin plus, it contains anti-inflammatory properties too."
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