While many of the best Korean skincare products are available in the U.S. thanks to the likes of Amazon and Soko Glam, I still couldn’t wait to touch down in store to try some things I’d been eyeing myself. Perhaps because I’m a beauty editor, I’m not one to wander around a beauty store; but my local Olive Young had my full attention. On three separate occasions, I spent upwards of an hour going shelf by shelf to study what products Koreans actually reach for.
As you’ve likely noticed, K-beauty has steadily grown from a niche category to the global mainstream over the last few years, thanks in large part to the power of social media. “While Amazon and TikTok are leading the K-beauty sales, the category is sure to see major growth this year as American consumers discover new products via social media, Korean culture (think: K-Pop and K-Drama), and in-store launches,” Sarah Chung Park, founder and CEO of Landing International, tells Vogue.
Vogue’s Favorite Korean Skin-Care Products
K-beauty recommendations are plenty, but while Americans are just catching up to its sensorial, fun formulas, we’ve seemingly grown quite hip to the serums and creams that keep flying off Seoul’s shelves. I noticed that many of the things I can purchase right from my couch (or perhaps, now, at my local Sephora), were the same things popular there, too.
Ahead, a bit of a compilation of the best K-beauty products based on my findings. No matter your skin concern, there’s a K-Beauty formula designed to target it—often with ingredients and textures you won’t find anywhere else. Ahead, shop the best Korean skin-care products for every step of your routine.
In This Story
Best PDRN Serum: Rejuran Turnover Ampoule c-PDRN
- Why We Love It: PDRN is so popular because it’s effective at stimulating collagen and skin renewal. While you may not be able to make it in for an in-office PDRN treatment, you can give a topical serum a try. Here, Rejuran (the company that produces the aforementioned in-office treatment) infuses this ampoule with 0.5% c-PDRN, alongside niacinamide, licorice root extract, and aloe vera to smooth, soothe, and brighten. Of the formula, board-certified plastic surgeon Babak Azizzadeh, MD, said: “The results tend to appear gradually with consistent use—expect improved moisture, smoother texture, and a healthier glow rather than dramatic tightening or instant wrinkle elimination.”
- Key Ingredients: Salmon-derived PDRN, adenosine, licorice root extract, niacinamide, aloe vera
- Best For: Boosting skin elasticity, hydrating
- Size: 1.01 fl. oz
