I spoke with three Korean skincare experts about the products they genuinely use—here’s what they revealed.
Korean skincare has undeniably gained significant popularity in recent years. With a wide range of products including cleansers, toners, moisturizers, and even Korean sunscreens, there's a noticeable demand for K-beauty items. Although this trend is not recent and has a long-standing history, the surge in interest for K-beauty in Western markets is apparent. Charlotte Cho, esthetician and co-founder of the Korean skincare brands Soko Glam and Then I Met You, notes, “Korean skincare is thoughtful, innovative, and reasonably priced. It is rooted in a deep cultural regard for skin health, utilizing gentle yet innovative ingredients and emphasizing consistency.” I have been using K-beauty products for quite a while, but as a beauty editor, I am aware of how overwhelming these trends can be. Hence, I was eager to sift through the noise and discover the skincare products that K-beauty enthusiasts truly rely on. To achieve this, I contacted several experts and requested them to share their daily skincare routines with me. Curious to find out which products they recommend? Keep reading...
K-Beauty Skincare Routines
1. Charlotte Cho
The first expert I was eager to consult was Charlotte Cho. As previously mentioned, she is an esthetician and has co-founded two well-known Korean skincare brands, so it was understandable that I sought insight into her skincare regimen.
- **Soko Glam Lagom Cellus Gel to Water Cleanser**
"I always start my mornings with the Lagom Cellus Gel to Water Cleanser," Cho shares. "It provides a fresh, hydrated clean without stripping my skin." This gel-to-water formula is filled with ingredients that strengthen the skin barrier and enhance moisture, making it perfect 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 prep and balance my skin, followed by the Neogen Dermalogy Real Ferment Micro Essence (£33) for its long-lasting hydration that invigorates my skin," she explains.
- **Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum SPF50+ PA+**
After moisturizing, Cho utilizes this Skin1004 SPF. "I never skip the Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum sunscreen with SPF 50+." This serum-like formula is likely to work exceptionally well under makeup.
- **SOME BY MI Retinol Intense Reactivating Facial Serum**
In the evenings, Cho opts for this retinol serum from Some By Mi, which includes retinol, retinal, and bakuchiol. "I apply [this serum] as it gently yet effectively renews and refines my skin overnight."
- **Then I Met You Bong² Bounce Cream**
"I conclude with the Bong2 Bounce Cream, which seals in all the moisture and ensures I wake up with plump, refreshed skin," Cho adds.
2. Jae Won Jeong
Recently, I’ve been enjoying products from the Korean skincare brand Haruharu, so I was enthusiastic about reaching out to founder and CEO, Jae Won Jeong, to learn about her skincare routine.
- **Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Moisture Cleansing Oil**
Jeong always begins her routine, whether in the morning or at night, with a cleansing oil followed by a cleansing gel. "Even without makeup, I start with the Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Moisture Deep Cleansing Oil, as it dissolves buildup and sebum, leaving me with a fresh base."
- **Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant**
While Jeong loves a hydrating essence, for gentle exfoliation, she turns to this well-known product from Paula's Choice. "[I use this] once or twice a week to achieve smooth skin texture."
In her morning routine, Jeong always ensures to apply a vitamin C serum, specifically Medik8's C-Tetra Serum, which contains 7% stabilized vitamin C, making it ideal for sensitive skin.
- **Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Synchronized Multi-Recovery Complex Serum**
In the evenings, Jeong selects a more hydrating option with Estée Lauder's Advanced Night Repair. This serum, rich in hyaluronic acid and featuring the brand's Chronolux™ Power Signal Technology, supports the skin's renewal process.
- **Haruharu Wonder Black Rice 5-Ceramide Barrier Moisturising Cream**
For a nourishing moisturizer, Jeong recommends this Haruharu product. "The Haruharu Wonder Black Rice 5-Ceramide Barrier Cream maintains my skin barrier and nourishes my skin throughout the day."
3. Erica Choi
I have followed Erica Choi (@eggcanvas) on Instagram for years, drawn in by her stylish, minimal
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I spoke with three Korean skincare experts about the products they genuinely use—here’s what they revealed.
Glass skin is on its way.
