K-beauty is literally everywhere you turn. But what even is it — aside from a set of products with ridiculously cute packaging? (Panda face masks, we’re looking at you.)
In the past, you probably had to trek to your local Koreatown (or book a flight halfway around the world) to get your fix of K-beauty essentials. But now, all the K-beauty products you could ever need (from serums to eye creams) are readily avails at Sephora. One of our faves? This Laneige Water Sleeping Mask: an overnight gel mask you apply in the p.m., leaving you with a next-level glowing complexion come morning.
Known for its healing properties, this herb is the main active ingredient in Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Tiger Grass Re.Pair Serum, which promises to soothe redness, calm irritation, and support your skin’s natural barrier. (Fun fact: Legend has it that tigers rolled around in tiger grass to heal their wounds — hence how it got its name.)
Think of boosters as concentrated serum-like formulas of active ingredients (like vitamin C) designed to be mixed in with your existing skin-care products (like moisturizer, serum, or cleanser). These are great for those who already have a routine they love but still want to reap the benefits of active ingredients.
Made up of 92% water, it’s no wonder why this yummy ingredient will hydrate and visibly plump up skin when applied topically. Look for it in hydrating masks and face creams.
This citrus fruit used in Korean cuisine and skin care is incredibly high in vitamin C, making it the perfect active ingredient if you want to visibly brighten dark spots and stimulate collagen, says Cho.
High in protein and peptides, this natural ingredient plumps up the skin and is said to mimic the moisturizing properties of hyaluronic acid. Plus, it’s naturally antimicrobial — meaning, it’s great for those with acneic skin.
Start your routine by double cleansing with an oil-based cleanser to remove excess oil and makeup, followed by a water-based one to draw out sweat and dirt. “These two steps will allow your skin to better absorb the rest of the products in your routine,” says Cho.
Use a primer if you want that perfect-skin filter (you know the one we’re talking about) IRL. This Touch In Sol No Poreblem Primer instantly blurs pores and uneven skin tone, leaving your skin super smooth and prepped for your makeup application.
The key to dewy, hydrated skin is layering up on skin-care products. To narrow down your routine to one that’s more manageable, try a toner, serum, eye cream, and moisturizer (after cleansing, of course!). They’re the four most important formulas, according to Cho.