Big-name K-Beauty bloggers share their tips on battling the winter skin blues
Hair essences, facial serums, cleansing balms, night masks – with the wealth of beauty products available in Korea, it can be hard to decide which ones to try. This is particularly true at the change of season, when skin dried out by cold snaps and chilly winds demands a more intensive and replenishing daily routine.
We asked three big names in the K-Beauty blogging scene to share their must-have beauty buys this November. Korean skincare and cosmetic lovers, take note!
Shini Park, Park and Cube, Blogger and Founder of Cube Collective
Blog: www.parkandcube.com │Instagram @parkncube
Moistfull Collagen Cream
Etude House, KRW 10,300
What it does
Enriched with as much as 30% hydrolyzed marine collagen and baobab leaf mucus, this concentrated moisturizer intensively hydrates skin, making it softer and more youthful looking.
Why Shini rates it
“The main purpose of this cream is to be used as a sleeping pack, but in colder months, I like to dab a thin layer on my face in the morning before applying makeup for longer-lasting moisture throughout the day.”
Argan Hair Oil
Inecto, KRW 17,500
What it does
Thoroughly hydrating oil infused with Pure Organic Argan Oil for smooth and frizz-free hair.
Why Shini rates it
“This hair oil rejuvenates dry, frizz-prone hair and brings it back to life, especially for those who blow-dry or color frequently. I love how quickly my hair and scalp soak it up without it feeling oily, and the results are immediate.“
Moisture Color Lip oil
VelyVely, KRW 16,000
What it does
Made up of a flower-oil complex, this lip oil enhances the look of dewy, healthy lips while providing a protective barrier for enhanced moisture.
Why Shini rates it
“This product is perfect for colder months when lips become ultra dr. I layer it on before applying lipstick for a longer-lasting pop of shine and colour.”
Whitney Bae, K-Beauty Vlogger
YouTube: WhitneyBae│Instagram @whitneybae
All Clean Balm
Heimish, KRW 18,000
What it does
Hypo-allergenic, paraben and synthetic perfume-free multi-cleanser, perfect for removing thick layers of makeup.
Why Whitney rates it
“This has been an amazing product for washing off all of my makeup at night. My face feels so clean afterwards, and it doesn’t dry my skin out. A little goes a long way, and I really feel like this has been helping control my oily skin.”
Ultra Facial Cream
Kiehl’s, KRW 39,000 (50ml)
What it does
Intensive moisturizer containing desert plant extracts and Kiehl’s signature ingredient, squalane, which work to restore skin’s natural moisture balance.
Why Whitney rates it
“Although this isn’t a Korean brand per se, I first purchased this cream in Korea and I am absolutely obsessed. It moisturizes without leaving behind an oily texture. This is definitely my must-have for this winter!”
Fermentation Essence
Benton, KRW 19,500
What it does
Unscented concentration of fermented ingredients, epidermal growth factor and hyaluronic acid, which hydrates and softens tired skin.
Why Whitney rates it
“This essence is great at hydrating my skin, and overall, my face feels much smoother after using this product. These days, I have been getting so many compliments about my glowing complexion, and I’ve been told I look younger too! I think this essence has a lot to do with it.”
Narda Santana, Korea Vlogger
Youtube: latinasaram│Instagram @latinasaram
Dear My Blooming Lips Talk lipstick in Matte
Etude House, KRW 9,500
What it does
Creamy, smooth, matte-coverage lipstick in a range of 12 dazzling colors that won’t dry out on winter lips.
Why Narda rates it
“I’m a big fan of this lipstick line from Etude House I love the peachy, feminine shades. They’re perfect for daily looks, and work well with the gradation technique.”
Ginger Sugar Overnight Lip Mask
Aritaum, KRW 9,000
What it does
Packed with essential oils and antioxidants, this overnight lip mask helps increase skin moisture by up to 17.5 percent.
Why Narda rates it
“With the colder weather on its way, it is really easy to get chapped lips. I’m always putting on chapstick, and trying to keep them moisturized. Last winter, I discovered the Aritaum lip masks, like this Ginger Sugar Overnight Scrub. You can wake up with perfectly smooth and hydrated lips.”
Written by Samia Liamani and Rhiannon Shepherd
