We are K-Beauty Specialists—Discover the Surprising Ingredient We Use for Constant Praise.

      The Lineup is a monthly feature that offers a glimpse into the beauty selections of the industry's most in-demand experts and tastemakers. Prepare for an insider's look at the must-have products that drive their routines. Beauty trends may evolve, but Korean beauty consistently leads the way—embracing color analysis, traditional bathhouses, and unconventional ingredients like salmon semen and snail mucin. While I'm willing to try just about anything for radiant skin, I hesitate at the idea of applying snail mucin—an ingredient that's gained attention in Korean skincare but can be off-putting. Fortunately, Glow Recipe's founders have developed a vegan alternative to this semi-controversial ingredient, which could be the solution to achieving the bouncy, dewy skin you've always wanted.

      Glow Recipe is influenced by the Korean heritage of co-founders Sarah Lee and Christine Chang, who observed their mothers and grandmothers incorporating natural ingredients such as watermelon, cucumber, and honey into their skincare routines—these elements inspired the brand’s collection of antioxidant-rich, fruit-based beauty products. Recently, the duo discovered that the unassuming prickly pear cactus provides the same hydration and barrier-repair benefits as snail mucin. "We found that we could derive stretchy mucin from the prickly pear cactus as an alternative to snail mucin," explains Chang. "This cactus has a long history of being used for wound healing and is recognized for its nutrient benefits." When your skin absorbs the amino acids, minerals, vitamins, and electrolytes offered by this underappreciated plant, expect to achieve a glowing, ultra-hydrated complexion that garners compliments. "I've been using our new serum for weeks and my skin appears much healthier and brighter," Lee shares. "I've been receiving numerous compliments on my even skin tone and glow lately, and my cheek redness has significantly diminished. It’s also perfect for transitional weather when my skin feels dry and needs extra hydration." Want more K-Beauty insights from Lee and Chang? Keep scrolling to explore their top product recommendations, ranging from a glow-enhancing serum to a glossy lip balm and essential items for lustrous hair.

      Shop Christine Chang's Favorite Beauty Products:

      Glow Recipe

      Prickly Pear Peptide Bouncy + Hydrating Skin Barrier Vegan Mucin Serum

      "My daily skin drink—it plumps, calms, hydrates, and soothes. I notice a difference in my skin when I skip it!"

      Beautyblender

      Original Beautyblender Makeup Sponge

      "I can’t do my makeup without this. I prefer to dampen it with the Glow Recipe Mist before using. I carry one in every purse and have several backups at my vanity."

      Glow Recipe

      Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Hue Drops Serum

      "The most versatile product in my routine—I use it as a radiant primer, blend it with my foundation for a hint of warmth, as a subtle bronzing liquid, and on my shoulders. The mini size travels everywhere with me."

      Basma

      The Cream Blush in Bubble Gum Pink

      "Creamy, buildable, vibrant colors suitable for lips and cheeks. I’ve been really enjoying the cool-toned pink lately for a simple, unified look."

      Glow Recipe

      Plum Plump Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizer

      "As my a.m./p.m. moisturizer, I bring the full-size jar on business trips and apply a thicker layer as an overnight mask. It’s also fantastic under makeup, thanks to its polyglutamic acid content."

      Kayali

      Yum Pistachio Gelato Eau De Parfum Intense

      "I like to mist this in the air and walk through it before starting my day; it has a slightly spicy, warm, sweet fragrance that lingers all day long."

      Dae

      Mirage Mist Leave-In Conditioner

      "This spray keeps my hair soft, manageable, and serves as a great heat protectant."

      Amika

      Soulfood Nourishing Hair Mask

      "The best nourishing hair mask—my hair is currently the longest it has ever been, and I maintain its health by using this at least twice a week."

      54 Thrones

      Moisturizing Butter Cream Body Wash

      "I have extremely dry, irritation-prone skin, and this body wash has been a hydrating, nourishing delight."

      Olive & June

      Press-On Nails

      "Convenient to apply for events. I always carry an emergency pack when I travel."

      Slip

      Lovely Lashes Contour Sleep Mask

      "I find that using a sleep mask significantly improves the quality of my sleep. I prefer the Slip mask with eye contour to avoid pressure on my lashes."

      The Nue Co.

      Magnesium Ease

      "An essential for promoting sleep and relaxation while on the go."

      Shop Sarah Lee's Favorite Beauty Products:

      Glow Recipe

      Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Drops Serum

      "I can't live without our Dew Drops. I use it to help treat my hyperpigmentation and as a glow booster under my makeup every day."

      Hourglass

      Veil Hydrating Skin Tint Foundation