In ancient times, Koreans used natural water-rich ingredients like cucumber, tomatoes, and watermelon to tone and prep their skin. So, while buying a toner, you can look for these ingredients to minimise the appearance of pores and brighten the skin tone.
Diet and Lifestyle: The traditional Korean diet, rich in vegetables, fermented foods like kimchi, and omega-3-rich fish, is thought to contribute to good skin. This diet is high in antioxidants, vitamins, and beneficial bacteria, all of which are great for skin health.
The Korean skincare routine typically includes multiple steps such as double cleansing, toning, exfoliating, applying essence, serums, and sunscreen. This comprehensive approach, combined with consistent use of hydrating and brightening products, contributes to their fair and glowing skin.
Holistic approach. Holistic beauty is a core value that is shared across Korean skincare companies. Instead of only looking at the outward appearance of the skin or face, Korean skincare takes on an approach that focuses on nourishing the skin to keep it healthy, which in turn, gives it a natural glow.
Koreans understand the importance of protecting their skin from the sun's harmful UV rays. They religiously apply sunscreen every day, rain or shine, to prevent premature aging and maintain skin health.
1. Park Seo-joon: The King of Korean Skincare. Park Seo-joon, renowned for his impeccable skin, has shared insights into his favorite K-Beauty products that keep his complexion clear and radiant.
1. Sulwhasoo. Pronounced “Suhl-ha-soo," this skincare brand was founded on the philosophy of balance. Utilising Korea's finest natural ingredients, Sulwhasoo is one of the best selling Korean brands on the market.
Japan has always been known for the most hi-tech and advanced skincare buys in the world. Here, the concept of “mochi skin” is central, meaning soft, plump, and hydrated skin, which is why Japanese beauty culture typically prioritises skincare over makeup.
Focused Formulations
Instead of cramming every possible ingredient into a single product, K-beauty brands often focus on what works. Fewer ingredients, less cost, more glow.
The Korean approach to avoiding wrinkles is holistic, combining diet, disciplined skincare routines, and cultural practices that prioritise long-term skin health. By adopting some of these practices, even non-Koreans can benefit from the age-defying techniques that are rooted deep in Korean culture.
The paucity of deodorant choice in Korea is bedeviling for those who want stronger stuff to suppress their bodily odors, especially if they're overheating under multiple layers on stuffy wintertime public transport or sweating profusely outdoors in summer.
Sleeping on the floor may also be consistent with lasting Confucian ideas of humility and respect. The ondol flooring heating systems (in homes that include them) would often use water pipes or electricity to heat the floor, which would provide warmth while sleeping.
The first notable difference between Korean and American skin care is the ingredients and formulations used. Korean skincare products often contain natural ingredients derived from the earth, like snail mucin, green tea, and ginseng.
Japan, China and other countries located in Asia have a rich diet of vitamins (specifically A and C, which benefit skin elasticity) and minerals including antioxidants from fruits and green tea. The Asian diet is very low in saturated and total fat.
Natalie Portman is known for her perfectly clear and radiant complexion, her skin seems to glow so naturally. The star insists on the importance of drinking a lot of water every day to keep the skin moisturized and fresh.
Japan, Spain and Sweden are widely known for having people with healthy hair, but there are also other countries like India, France and Russia that are also known for helping people keep their hair natural and not messing with any artificial coloring.
Multiple layers of different skincare products rich in humectants, ceramides, and the right types of exfoliators are vital in creating a luminous glow in the quest for glass skin.
If you have sensitive or dry skin, the minimalist approach of Japanese skincare, with its emphasis on hydration, may be the best solution. On the other hand, people with oily skin may want to try the Korean routine, as it emphasizes exfoliation, oil control, and targeted treatment.
The Basic Philosophy of Korean Skincare
This involves a multi-step regimen to address various aspects of skin health, keeping it hydrated, protected, and balanced. You'll encounter natural ingredients like botanical extracts, fermented ingredients, and innovative compounds like snail mucin and bee venom.
It's the result of an extensive skincare routine and naturally sourced hydrating extracts present in almost all Korean skincare ranges. For people who don't know, glass skin is flawless skin that is pore-less and translucent. It refers to almost baby-like bouncy skin because their skin is the healthiest.
Kim Tae-hee: Often referred to as one of the most beautiful women in Korea, Kim Tae-hee's Korean nose is frequently highlighted by surgeons for its perfect proportions. Her nose is defined yet subtle, with a slight curve that adds softness to her face. It's a classic example of the “natural but refined” look.
Since ancient times, Koreans have only used natural, harsh-free ingredients for their skincare routines: green tea, “snail slime”, bamboo extracts, propolis, and honey are just some examples of the elements they used and have passed through generations.