How should you layer Korean skincare products in your routine?

“In general, products should be layered thinnest to thickest,” says Dr. Garshick. “Apply lighter toners and essences as a first step after cleansing, followed by serums, then a moisturizing cream to ensure proper absorption.” Even if you’re not following a 10-step routine , this is a good rule to follow to maximize the effectiveness of the products that you’re using.

How can you get Korean glass skin?

If you want a dewy complexion, hydration is key. Aside from ensuring your skin is properly cleansed, using products that keep the skin from looking dry and dehydrated will give you that glassy look you desire. Layering hydrating Korean products such as toners, essences, and lightweight serums can help you achieve this.

36 Best Korean Skincare Products of 2025, Byrdie Editor-Loved

Three Byrdie editors using their favorite Korean skincare products — Byrdie

TL;DR

We’re big fans of Korean skincare, using everything from cleansers to masks and sunscreens. If you want an essence to add to your routine, we recommend the COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence. It has a bouncy consistency that instantly adds hydration and treats hyperpigmentation over time. Looking for a gentle makeup remover? We love the Hero Cosmetics Dissolve Away Daily Cleansing Balm. It removes heavy eye makeup easily and quickly without stripping the skin.

Finding K-beauty at your local drugstore a decade ago was utterly impossible. To order products from popular brands like Etude House and Cosrx, you needed the Chrome “translate” extension (and occasionally a VPN) to purchase them internationally. Now, K-beauty products are vastly available stateside, and you can order cult favorites straight to your door via Sephora and Amazon. Their popularity has skyrocketed due to the potent and effective formulas that are still gentle on all skin types. “Korean skincare is committed to constant innovation while focusing on hydration and gentle exfoliation to achieve glowing skin,” says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Marisa Garshick, M.D. Korean beauty has even inspired trends in Western skincare—with many American brands making their versions of uniquely Korean products, such as essence and sheet masks.

As your fellow skincare experts, Byrdie editors have used tons of Korean skincare products—and after years of testing, we know which formulas are worth the hype. To find our favorites, we polled the entire team on the products they use daily and would recommend to their closest friends (and readers). After collecting their insights and speaking with K-beauty experts and dermatologists, we landed on these top picks.

Our Top Picks

Sulwhasoo Cleansing Oil at Amazon $40

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Hero Cosmetics Dissolve Away Daily Cleansing Balm at Amazon $18

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KraveBeauty Matcha Hemp Hydrating Cleanser at Amazon $16

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Then I Met You Cleansing Balm at Amazon $39

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Ma:nyo Cleaning Oil at Ulta $29

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Glow Recipe Avocado Ceramide Moisture Barrier Cleanser at Amazon $28

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Belif Aqua Bomb Hydrating Toner at Amazon $30

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SALE

COSRX Snail Mucin 96% Power Repairing Essence at Amazon ~~$25~~ $20

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SALE

SK-II Facial Treatment Essence at Sephora ~~$325~~ $99

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Then I Met You Birch Milk Refining Toner at Thenimetyou.com

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Best Cleansers

“Korean cleansers often emphasize a gentle, thorough cleansing experience that preserves the skin’s natural barrier,” says Dr. Garshick. “The double cleansing method is a hallmark of Korean skincare, typically starting with an oil-based cleanser to remove makeup and sunscreen, followed by a water-based cleanser to clear sweat, dirt, and impurities.” There are tons of cleansing formulas you can choose from, such as cleansing balms, gel cleansers, cream cleansers, and more. Choose one that works best for your skin type and has ingredients that cater to your skin concerns, such as acne, dryness, or redness.

Sulwhasoo Cleansing Oil

PHOTO: Sephora

$40 at Amazon $40 $13 at Sephora $13 at Nordstrom

Key Ingredients: Apricot kernel oil, tangerine peel extract, squalane | Size: 6.4 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

You can’t have an effective Korean skincare routine without a properly cleansed face, and a good cleansing oil should be your first step. This one from Sulwhasoo is our favorite—it can remove every drop of makeup and leave the skin feeling clean and refreshed—never dry or tight. It’s formulated with a blend of herbal oils, including camellia and apricot, that nourish the complexion while breaking down makeup and impurities. It doesn’t require heavy scrubbing either; the lightweight, gentle formula emulsifies and melts it all away, including any stubborn eye makeup. We love that it won’t cause any irritation to sensitive skin types and doesn’t leave a residue behind—just skin that feels fresh and hydrated.

Before and after photos showing the effects of using Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Oil — Byrdie

Ally Hirschlag, associate editorial director: “It’s slippery and feels a bit oily on the hands when you dispense it, but when you rub it in and emulsify it with water, it turns into this gorgeous, gentle cleanser. After I wash it off, my face also feels nice and clean, but never tight or stripped.”

Hero Cosmetics Dissolve Away Daily Cleansing Balm

PHOTO: Ulta

$18 at Amazon $18 at Ulta $18 at Target

Key Ingredients: Sunflower seed oil, rosehip oil, vitamin E | Size: 2.2 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Another Korean beauty cleansing staple is none other than the cleansing balm, an oil-based product that starts as a solid but liquifies once mixed with water to remove makeup, sunscreen, and excess oils from the skin. This option is also packed with skin-loving ingredients, like vitamin E and sunflower seed oil, to keep the complexion hydrated while cleaning. We love that it’s unscented and made with various noncomedogenic oils, so it won’t clog the pores or cause breakouts in acne-prone skin. It’s under $20, and you only need a quarter-sized amount of the product for each use—a small price to pay for thoroughly cleansed skin.

Before and after photos showing the effects of using Hero Cosmetics Dissolve Away Daily Cleansing Balm — Byrdie

Eden Stuart, editor: “This product gets the job done—I don't need to do any tugging or tough rubbing to remove my eye makeup (and I wear plenty of it)—while leaving my skin feeling hydrated.”

Other Cleansers We Love

KraveBeauty Matcha Hemp Hydrating Cleanser

This gentle, non-stripping face wash is enriched with matcha and hemp seed oil.

$16 at Amazon View on Cultbeauty.com

Then I Met You Cleansing Balm

Gently remove makeup with this oil cleansing balm that is infused with antioxidants.

$39 at Amazon $32 at Sokoglam.com View on Thenimetyou.com

Ma:nyo Cleaning Oil

A non-greasy cleansing oil that removes makeup and clears pores for clearer skin.

$29 at Ulta View on Manyo.us

Glow Recipe Avocado Ceramide Moisture Barrier Cleanser

This lotion-to-foam skin cleanser helps to hydrate, rebalance, and strengthen the skin’s barrier.

$28 $26 at Amazon $28 at Sephora View on Glowrecipe.com

Shannon Stubbs, writer on the Krave Beauty Matcha Hemp Hydrating Cleanser: “This cleanser balances my skin—keeping it moisturized and clean at the same time. As someone with super dry skin, it’s a great pick to use year-round to add as much hydration as possible.”

Best Toners and Essences

“Toners and essences in Korean skincare are used to hydrate skin and prepare it for more intense skincare steps,” says cosmetic chemist Dr. Michelle Wong. “They work well as lightweight moisturizers and often contain active ingredients, albeit at a lower potency than serums.” Essences are mostly unique to Korean skincare (though there are a few Western options), and they can have a thin consistency similar to a toner or a more viscous, jelly-like texture to add even more hydration. Since they’re so versatile and provide a variety of skin benefits, they’ll make a great addition to your routine.

Belif Aqua Bomb Hydrating Toner

PHOTO: Sephora

$30 at Amazon $30 at Sephora $30 at Nordstrom

Key Ingredients: Sodium hyaluronate, baobab, panthenol | Size: 6.75 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

Toners are an underrated way to slip some more well-needed hydration into your routine without leading to an oily or greasy complexion—and this ultra-lightweight one from Belif might be the best of them all. It has a water-like texture that’s thin enough to slip through your fingers but instantly quenches dryness for skin that’s nourished and soothed. The formula uses sodium hyaluronate (a derivative of hyaluronic acid) to deeply hydrate, panthenol, and a blend of natural plant extracts to lock in moisture without causing any irritation. It’s the best product to relieve skin that’s become super tight after cleansing, and we love to use it as the first layer in our skincare routine before any actives to promote better absorption.

Before and after photos showing the effects of using Belif Aqua Bomb Hydrating Toner — Byrdie

Shannon Stubbs, writer: “This is the cure for my parched, winter skin, and it can be used day and night since it's so lightweight. A lot of heavier moisturizing products can cause congestion and acne, and I don't have that problem with this. It's as hydrating as some of my thicker creams.”

COSRX Snail Mucin 96% Power Repairing Essence

PHOTO: Amazon

$25 $20 at Amazon $25 at Ulta $25 at Target

Key Ingredients: Snail secretion filtrate, sodium hyaluronate | Size: 3.38 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Even if you’ve never tried Korean skincare, you’ve probably heard of this unique—but effective—essence from Cosrx. Its key ingredient is snail mucin, aka the slime that snails produce, which is a popular ingredient in Korean skincare for its moisturizing and brightening properties. It has a thicker and bouncier texture than many other essences, making it fun to apply and easy to absorb—and you can feel its hydrating power instantly. Even though it’s a bit sticky at first, it sinks into the skin quickly and doesn’t leave a residue behind for a comfortable feel, so you can easily layer more products on top without feeling too heavy. With continued use, you should notice brighter, clearer skin that feels plump and healthy.

Before and after applying COSRX Advanced Snail 96% Mucin Power Essence — Byrdie

Bella Cacciatore, news editor: “It's a great multitasker that addresses a range of skin concerns, but I find it best for hydrating and brightening. It's a little thinner than a serum but thicker than a toner. When I use it consistently, it overall makes my skin look brighter and better.”

Other Toners and Essences We Love

SK-II Facial Treatment Essence

An antioxidant-infused essence that reduces wrinkles, discoloration, and sun-induced dark spots.

$245 $99 at Sephora View on Neiman Marcus View on Maxaroma.com

Then I Met You Birch Milk Refining Toner

This hydrating Korean toner has glycolic and lactic acids to smooth fine lines and refine pores.

View on Thenimetyou.com $28 at Sokoglam.com

Glow Recipe Cloudberry Bright Essence Toner

Brighten and even out skin tone with this toner that contains radiance-boosting CoQ10 and Cloudberry.

$38 $29 at Amazon $38 at Sephora $38 at Kohls.com

LANEIGE Cream Skin Toner & Moisturizer

Hydrate and firm skin with this milky cream toner that is enriched with ceramides and peptides.

$16 at Amazon $36 at Sephora $16 at Laneige.com

Before and after photos showing the effects of using Glow Recipe Cloudberry Bright Essence Toner — Byrdie

Hallie Gould, editor-in-chief on the Glow Recipe Cloudberry Bright Essence Toner: “This essence toner is a one-stop-shop for so many skin-loving benefits. The texture is light but cushiony and penetrates easily into the skin. It boosts vibrancy, keeps my skin feeling bouncy and hydrated, and my skin laps it up. It's a beautiful, lovely-to-apply formula that really works. The formula is made in Korea and includes rice water and glycerin to seal in moisture, as well as CoQ10 (an antioxidant to protect your skin from sun damage and premature aging).”

Best Serums

“Korean serums are highly concentrated treatments that target specific skin concerns, such as pigmentation, wrinkles, or dehydration,” says Dr. Garshick. “They are formulated to layer seamlessly and are often lightweight but potent.” When shopping for serums on Korean retailers, you might also notice products called ampoules. While very similar to serums, they are slightly different in effectiveness. “Ampoules have a higher concentration of ingredients than serums and focus on delivering results faster,” says Olive Kim, co-founder and former CEO of The Crème Shop. “They are usually thicker in formula and, as a result, often higher priced than serums or essences.” Both should be used in the same place in your routine—after toner or essence and before heavier creams.

Biodance Hydro Cera-Nol Ampoule Hydrating Serum

PHOTO: Biodance

$46 $37 at Amazon View on Biodance.com View on Oliveyoung.com

Key Ingredients: Panthenol, ceramides, hyaluronic acid | Size: 1.69 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Hydration is the name of the game in Korean skincare, and this ampoule from Biodance takes it to another level. Multiple forms of hyaluronic acid and several ceramides add intense hydration to dehydrated, flaky skin while strengthening the moisture barrier. The consistency makes it special; it’s lightweight and milky and sinks into the skin immediately upon application. It’s nourishing without feeling heavy, and we love that it doesn’t trigger breakouts on acne-prone skin types. The formula is also soothing, making it a treat for those dealing with redness or inflammation.

Before and after applying Biodance Hydro Cera-Nol Ampoule Hydrating Serum — Byrdie

Derek Deng, associate content editor: “I'd describe this serum as a cashmere sweater for your skin: nourishing, barrier-protecting, and luxurious. It gives your skin the love it needs without suffocating it, so it’s perfect for acne-prone skin.”

Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum

PHOTO: Ulta

$39 at Amazon $59 at Ulta $19 at Target

Key Ingredients: Peach extract, niacinamide, madecassoside | Size: 1.35 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Flawless skin is impossible, of course—but this refining and brightening serum from Peach & Lily can get you pretty close. As the name suggests, it promotes a clear and radiant complexion, thanks to niacinamide, peptides, and peach extract, which keep the skin hydrated and luminous. It’s excellent at calming redness and soothing irritation and can soften and smooth the skin while treating wrinkles and fine lines. We love that it feels so light and refreshing on the skin, so it’s a joy to use day and night. And it’s a must if you want that glass-skin look.

Before and after photos showing the effects of using Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum — Byrdie

Lauren Pardee, senior editor: “I always turn towards this product when I'm feeling really good about my skin and want to show it off. It hydrates and elevates my skin so it's not dull and lackluster—plus it's cooling.”

Other Serums We Love

belif Aqua Bomb Hydrating Hyalucid 11% Serum

This lightweight serum hydrates and plumps skin for a dewy glow.

$32 at Nordstrom $32 at Bloomingdales $32 at Revolve

Beauty of Joseon Glow Deep Serum: Rice + Alpha-Arbutin

Target dark spots, acne scars, and discoloration with this serum enriched with alpha arbutin and rice.

$17 $16 at Amazon View on Beautyofjoseon.com

SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Ampoule

Calm sensitive and irritated skin with this lightweight, yet hydrating serum.

$22 $20 at Amazon $25 at Ulta $25 at Macy's

Innisfree Green Tea Hyaluronic Acid Serum

Innisfree Green Tea Seed Hyaluronic Serum

Get long-lasting hydration with this serum enriched with green tea and encapsulated hyaluronic acid.

$30 at Amazon $30 $24 at Sephora View on Innisfree.com

Eden Stuart, editor on the Belif Aqua Bomb Hydrating Hyalucid 11% Serum: “A few drops of this fragrance-free serum give me a noticeably more luminous complexion, and my combo skin feels balanced throughout the day.”

Best Masks

“Korean masks are affordable and effective, often providing instant gratification—like a noticeably brighter skin tone, hydration, and soothing acne or inflammation,” says Kim. “They’re also culturally meaningful; you would go to the neighborhood spa as a child with your mom and grandma and do sheet masks or cucumber masks together.” Dr. Wong adds, “Sleeping masks are usually a thicker texture and layer over your other skincare products. They help seal in hydration and prevent your skin from drying out—a common problem if you sleep in an air conditioned room.”

Rael Tea Tree Face Sheet Mask

PHOTO: Target

$16 $15 at Amazon $16 at Ulta $15 at Target

Key Ingredients: Tea tree oil, chamomile extract, cica | Size: 4.2 oz (5 ct) | Cruelty-Free: Yes

While sheet masks are well-known for their ability to provide instant hydration, many options can target other skin problems, such as acne. This one from Rael does just that, using tea tree oil to heal blemishes alongside chamomile and cica to soothe irritation and redness. It’s made of a bamboo material that feels breathable on the skin and has a slightly cooling sensation, making the experience even more relaxing. The serum in the mask should be left on the skin once it's removed, and it doesn’t feel heavy—making it a great option to soothe the skin before bed. It’s fragrance-free and has been tested by dermatologists, so you don’t need to worry about it irritating your complexion.

Before and after photos showing the effects of using the Rael Tea Tree Face Sheet Mask — Byrdie

Abby Dupes, associate editor: “This mask can soothe acne and facial redness while feeling cool and refreshing on the skin, and its nonsticky formula lets me comfortably leave the leftover serum on. After using it, I notice reduced pimple sizes and a more even skin tone by morning.”

Dr. Jart+ Vital Hydra Solution Hydro Plump Night Mask

PHOTO: Dr. Jart+

$35 at Amazon View on Drjart.com

Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, panthenol, glycerin | Size: 2.5 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Sleeping masks are usually packed with skin-nourishing ingredients to repair the complexion overnight. This mask from Dr. Jart has hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and panthenol, so you can wake up with moisturized and glowy skin. It has a creamy texture but feels lightweight, and it doesn’t trigger acne-prone skin or irritate active breakouts. We’ve also found that this one never transfers to the pillow, so you can sleep soundly, knowing your skin is drinking up all the hydration it provides without making a mess.

Before and after using Dr. Jart+ Vital Hydra Solution Hydro Plump Night Mask — Byrdie

Star Donaldson, social media director: “This is the best overnight mask for my acne-prone skin. I use it nightly after using my active acne products, and it seals in my skin's moisture and ensures I wake up with plump skin. It's lightweight but packs a huge punch of hydration.”

Other Masks We Love

Dr. Jart+ Dermask Clearing Solution

dr-jart-dermask-micro-jet-clearing-solution-mask-sheet

Calm irritated skin with this face mask that delivers a cooling sensation to the skin.

$10 at Amazon $10 at Sephora View on Drjart.com

Sulwhasoo Activating Mask

Smooth fine lines and hydrate skin with this face mask made of Paper Mulberry.

$60 at Amazon View on Sulwhasoo.com $60 at Bloomingdales

Biodance Bio-Collagen Real Deep Mask

Wear this hydrogel mask overnight to increase firmness, tighten pores, and plump your skin.

$76 $62 at Amazon View on Stylevana.com View on Oliveyoung.com

LANEIGE Sleeping Mask

Sephora LANEIGE Water Sleeping Mask with Squalane

Smooth on this probiotic-enriched cream to wake up with dewy and smooth skin.

$32 at Sephora $32 at Laneige.com $32 at Kohls.com

Amanda Rosenthal, writer on the Sulwhasoo First Care Activating Mask: “There are so many sheet masks out there, but none have revived my skin quite like this one. It comes drenched in a rich, skin-saving formula (ginseng and herbs), immediately giving my skin a radiant glow. With consistent use, it has improved texture and made my skin look plump and healthy.”

Best Moisturizers

“Korean moisturizers prioritize hydration with a focus on creating a dewy finish,” says Dr. Garshick. “They often come in gel or cream formulas that are quickly absorbed, leaving no greasy residue.” Since Korean skincare routines often prioritize multiple layers of product, moisturizers are light in consistency and act as a sealant for the products that came before them. They usually have natural moisturizing ingredients, such as plant extracts and oils, as well as lightweight acids.

Glow Recipe Plum Plump Hyaluronic Cream

PHOTO: Sephora

$40 at Amazon $21 at Sephora View on Glowrecipe.com

Key Ingredients: Polyglutamic acid, hyaluronic acid, plum, ice willowherb | Size: 1.7 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

“Lightweight gel-cream moisturizers are much more popular in Korean skincare,” says Dr. Wong. “These don't feel as heavy in humid climates and sink in more easily.” One of our favorite gel-cream formulas is this moisturizer from Glow Recipe. Formulated with polyglutamic acid and hyaluronic acid, it adds noticeable hydration to the driest skin types even though it’s lightweight. As the name suggests, it promotes a plump, bouncy complexion and can boost radiance on dull skin types. We also love that it comes in a refillable jar, so you can simultaneously reduce your plastic use and moisturize your skin.

Before and after photos showing the effects of using Glow Recipe Plum Plump Hyaluronic Cream — Byrdie

Olivia Hancock, editor: “This whipped formula is incredibly lightweight, but it delivers intense hydration. After slathering this on, I’m always left with skin that looks plump, dewy, and healthy.”

Laneige Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Intensive Moisturizer

PHOTO: Amazon

$38 at Amazon View on Laneige.com

Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, peptides, squalane | Size: 1.6 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

A unique, balm-cream texture is what makes this moisturizer from Laneige so special. While it’s very rich, it somehow doesn’t feel heavy and never makes the skin greasy throughout the day when applied first thing in the morning. It can do everything that a thicker, heavier cream can without irritating sensitive or acne-prone skin types. Made with ingredients like squalane, peptides, vitamin E, and niacinamide, it keeps the skin healthy and radiant while balancing moisture levels. Not to mention it never leaves an uncomfortable residue on the skin or pill under makeup or sunscreen.

Before and after photos showing the effects of using LANEIGE Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Intensive Moisturizer — Byrdie

Adi Giesey, editor: This moisturizer has a rich formula that absorbs fast, calms my sensitive skin, and sits nicely under makeup. I can always trust it will keep my skin glowing throughout the day.”

Other Moisturizers We Love

COSRX Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizing Cream

Enjoy long-lasting hydration with this cream that is enriched with hyaluronic acid.

$25 $21 at Amazon $25 at Ulta View on Cosrx.com

Illiyoon Ceramide Ato Concentrate Cream

Made for those with sensitive skin, this cream hydrates and strengthens the skin barrier.

$29 $25 at Amazon View on Myshopify.com View on Kbeauty.shop

Klairs Rich Moist Soothing Cream

Calm irritated skin with this non-greasy lotion that strengthens the skin barrier.

$10 $7 at Amazon $26 at Macy's $26 at Nordstromrack.com

Etude House SoonJung 2x Barrier Intensive Cream

This pH-balanced cream hydrates and protects sensitive skin.

$17 at Amazon View on IHerb View on Stylevana.com

Jasmine Phillips, social media editor on the Cosrx Hyaluronic Acid Intensive Cream: “I love the cooling sensation this moisturizer provides and how easily it absorbs. My skin looks hydrated and glowy immediately after use, and I love the light, clean scent that isn't overbearing.”

Best Sunscreens

“Since many Koreans wear sunscreen daily under their makeup, a lot of Korean sunscreens are designed to be lightweight and comfortable—compared to Western sunscreens, which are often intended for harsher conditions, like going to the beach or hiking,” says Dr. Wong. “They often contain newer UV filters that aren't yet approved in the U.S., which allow a lighter texture while still offering high protection.” This is what makes Korean sunscreens so popular—they’re simply easier to wear every single day. Kim also notes that many formulas include ingredients like cica, aloe vera, and vitamins to improve the skin’s condition while protecting it.

Innisfree Daily UV Defense Sunscreen

Innisfree Daily UV Defense Invisible Broad Spectrum SPF 36 Sunscreen

PHOTO: Sephora

$18 at Amazon $18 at Sephora View on Innisfree.com

Key Ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate | Size: 1.69 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Named our #1 pick in our best sunscreens roundup, this option from Innisfree checks all the boxes. It has a creamy consistency that hydrates the skin, similar to a rich moisturizer, but it absorbs into the skin instantly without leaving a heavy or sticky residue. Alongside chemical UV filters, it also contains soothing Centella, camellia extract, and vitamin E—so it’s a great pick for sensitive skin types who might find sunscreens irritating or heavy. It sits on the skin comfortably and doesn’t make the complexion look greasy or oily (as some sunscreens tend to) throughout the day. The best part is that it doesn’t leave a white cast at all, drying completely clear on the skin. It gets extra points from us for being under $20, so you can reapply as much as you desire without breaking the bank.

A person before and after applying Innisfree Daily UV Defense Broad Spectrum SPF 36 Sunscreen — Byrdie

Shannon Stubbs, writer: “I love this hydrating, creamy sunscreen that doesn't feel too heavy on the skin or cause congestion. It doesn't leave a white cast, and it's half the price and better in quality than other sunscreens I’ve tried.”

Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++

PHOTO: Amazon

$20 at Amazon $17 at Yesstyle.com View on Stylevana.com

Key Ingredients: Rice extract, niacinamide, glycerin | Size: 1.69 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

You’ve probably seen this sunscreen all over your TikTok feed; it went viral for its ability to blend in seamlessly without a white cast on all skin tones. Made with rice extract and fermented ingredients, this sunscreen helps keep the skin nourished and healthy—it also contains amino acids and vitamins B, C, and E. It has a light feel on the skin and adds a good dose of hydration, giving a dewy glow that lasts all day. Bonus: it doesn’t pill under makeup and has a nonsticky finish, and we love it for all skin types since it’s so gentle.

Before and after photos showing the effects of using Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++ — Byrdie

Jasmine Phillips, social media editor: “Upon application, this sunscreen blends into my skin seamlessly with no white cast in sight. It would definitely work for all skin types—it is lightweight and doesn't feel heavy or greasy while still providing moisture.”

Other Sunscreens We Love

Dr. Jart+ Every Sun Day Fluid Sunscreen SPF 50+ for Face

This lightweight chemical sunscreen protects your skin without leaving a white cast behind.

$44 at Amazon $44 at Sephora View on Drjart.com

Isntree Watery Sun Gel

Protects skin with SPF 50, while also keeping skin hydrated with hyaluronic acid.

$23 $16 at Amazon View on Stylevana.com $18 at Yesstyle.com

SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum

This serum-like chemical sunscreen protects skin with SPF 50, while enriched with ingredients that firm and plump skin.

$17 at Amazon View on Stylevana.com View on Beautybay.com

Missha Soft Finish Sun Milk

This milky sunscreen protects your skin and leaves it with a radiant glow.

View on Stylevana.com View on Oliveyoung.com

Olivia Hancock, editor on the Dr. Jart Every Sun Day Fluid Sunscreen: “This liquid sunscreen is award-winning for a reason. It provides SPF 50 protection, doesn’t leave behind a white cast, and pairs well with other products. I appreciate that this formula is incredibly easy to blend and instantly makes my skin feel more hydrated.”

What to Look for in Korean Skincare Products

Lightweight Formulas: As you may have noticed, most Korean skincare products have a lightweight consistency that is gentle and nonirritating on all skin types. Even though they feel weightless on the skin, they can still work effectively to treat various skin issues, such as dehydration and dullness, due to their potent formulas. Since Korean skincare often includes multiple products in one routine, products that can layer well without feeling too heavy are key. When shopping, we recommend looking for whipped or gel-like textures as they’ll feel more comfortable on the complexion even once other products are added.
Natural Ingredients: Korean products often contain natural plant or herbal extracts, such as Centella asiatica, ginseng, green tea extract, and rice extract, according to Dr. Garshick. These ingredients are filled with antioxidants to heal and rejuvenate the skin. Kim also notes that these ingredients can have traditions in Korean culture—for example, the water that was used to wash rice would also be applied to the skin to cleanse and brighten.
Fragrance-Free: “Korean products tend to be less heavily fragranced than a lot of Western drugstore products,” says Dr. Wong, which is why the products are often geared towards sensitive skin types. If fragrance is a problem for you, just double-check the ingredients to make sure fragrance (or “parfum”) isn’t listed.

How We Tested Korean Skincare Products

There’s a wealth of Korean skincare products available, so we surveyed Byrdie editors on their tried-and-true favorites to decide which ones were the best.

Number of Testers: 15
Testing Period: Two weeks to five years
Frequency of Use: Twice a day to once a month

FAQ

How should you layer Korean skincare products in your routine?

“In general, products should be layered thinnest to thickest,” says Dr. Garshick. “Apply lighter toners and essences as a first step after cleansing, followed by serums, then a moisturizing cream to ensure proper absorption.” Even if you’re not following a 10-step routine, this is a good rule to follow to maximize the effectiveness of the products that you’re using.
How can you get Korean glass skin?

If you want a dewy complexion, hydration is key. Aside from ensuring your skin is properly cleansed, using products that keep the skin from looking dry and dehydrated will give you that glassy look you desire. Layering hydrating Korean products such as toners, essences, and lightweight serums can help you achieve this.

Meet Our Experts

We consulted the following experts to learn more about Korean skincare products and what we should look for before purchasing:

Dr. Michelle Wong, Ph.D., is a cosmetic chemist and skincare content creator based in Sydney, Australia. She is the founder of Lab Muffin Beauty Science, a blog where she explains the science behind beauty products.
Dr. Marisa Garshick, M.D., FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist and an assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Cornell.
Olive Kim is the co-founder and former CEO of K-beauty brand The Crème Shop. She is also the founder of Clöud Café & Collagelée.

Why Trust Byrdie

Shannon Stubbs is a writer at Byrdie, where she covers beauty. She’s incorporated Korean skincare products into her routine for years, and she previously worked at K-beauty retailer Soko Glam where she was able to learn more about formulas and ingredients. To write this story, she collected insights from Byrdie editors and experts to recommend the options shown here.