I asked three experts in Korean skincare to reveal the products they genuinely use—here’s what they shared.

I asked three experts in Korean skincare to reveal the products they genuinely use—here’s what they shared.

      It's well-known that Korean skincare has surged in popularity in recent years. From cleansers and toners to moisturizers and Korean sunscreens, I've observed a significant demand for K-beauty products. Although this trend isn't new—having a rich history and existing for many years—it's clear that the interest in K-beauty products in the Western market has escalated. "Korean skincare is intentional, innovative, and the price points are reasonable," remarks Charlotte Cho, esthetician and co-founder of the Korean skincare brands Soko Glam and Then I Met You. "It is built on a profound cultural appreciation for skin health, utilizing gentle and creative ingredients, and emphasizing consistent use over time." Having used K-beauty products for a while, I understand how daunting these skincare trends can be as a beauty editor, so I aimed to look past the hype to discover which skincare products are truly favored by K-beauty aficionados. Consequently, I contacted several experts to learn about their daily skincare routines. Curious about the products these specialists endorse? Keep reading...

      K-Beauty Skincare Routines

      1. Charlotte Cho

      I was eager to reach out to Charlotte Cho first. As noted earlier, Cho is an esthetician and co-founded two well-known Korean skincare brands. Thus, I was interested in gaining insight into her skincare regimen.

      - **Soko Glam Lagom Cellus Gel to Water Cleanser**

      “I always kick off my mornings with the Lagom Cellus Gel to Water Cleanser,” Cho shares. “It provides a fresh and hydrating clean without stripping my skin.” This gel-to-water cleanser is full of ingredients that reinforce the skin barrier and enhance moisture, making it suitable for dry or irritated skin types.

      - **Soko Glam Acwell Licorice Ph Balancing Cleansing Toner**

      “Next, I use the Acwell Licorice Ph Balancing Cleansing Toner to balance and prep, followed by the Neogen Dermalogy Real Ferment Micro Essence (£33), which provides that signature long-lasting hydration that makes my skin feel revitalized,” she explains.

      - **Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum SPF50+ PA+**

      After moisturizing, Cho never misses her sunscreen: the Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum. "I always apply this sunscreen, which has SPF 50+,” she insists. The serum-like texture likely works wonderfully under makeup.

      - **SOME BY MI Retinol Intense Reactivating Facial Serum**

      In the evenings, Cho opts for this retinol serum by Some By Mi, which contains retinol, retinal, and bakuchiol. “I use this serum as it is a gentle yet effective method to renew and refine my skin overnight.”

      - **Then I Met You Bong² Bounce Cream**

      “I conclude my routine with the Bong2 Bounce Cream, which seals in all the moisture and helps me wake up with plump, refreshed skin,” Cho adds.

      2. Jae Won Jeong

      Having recently enjoyed products from the Korean skincare brand Haruharu, I was eager to contact its founder and CEO, Jae Won Jeong, to inquire about her skincare routine.

      - **Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Moisture Cleansing Oil**

      Whether in the morning or at night, Jeong starts her cleansing process with a cleansing oil before following with a gel. “Even without makeup, I begin with the Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Moisture Deep Cleansing Oil, which dissolves buildup and sebum, leaving me with a clean canvas,” she explains.

      - **Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant**

      Though Jeong loves a hydrating essence, she prefers this popular exfoliant from Paula's Choice for gentle exfoliation. “[I use this] once or twice a week for smooth skin texture.”

      During her morning skincare regimen, Jeong ensures she applies a vitamin C serum. Her preferred choice? Medik8's well-known C-Tetra Serum, which features 7% stabilized vitamin C, making it ideal for sensitive skin.

      - **Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Synchronized Multi-Recovery Complex Serum**

      In the evenings, Jeong favors a more hydrating solution with Estée Lauder's Advanced Night Repair. This serum is recognized as one of the best on the market, loaded with hyaluronic acid and the brand's Chronolux™ Power Signal Technology to aid the skin's renewal process.

      - **Haruharu Wonder Black Rice 5-Ceramide Barrier Moisturising Cream**

      Lastly, for nourishing hydration, Jeong recommends this product from Haruharu. “The Haruharu Wonder Black Rice 5-Ceramide Barrier Cream maintains my barrier's integrity and cushions my skin throughout the day.”

      3. Erica Choi

      I’ve been following Erica Choi (@eggcanvas) on Instagram for years, drawn to her chic, minimalist

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I asked three experts in Korean skincare to reveal the products they genuinely use—here’s what they shared.

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