Viral Korean skincare products explained: what each one does and who it suits
Some Korean skincare products are all over social media, and it is hard to tell what they are for. This guide says in plain words what each one does, who it suits and where its limits are. You do not need all six: pick the one that solves a problem you have. Add new products one at a time. The descriptions are based on the makers' information, not on our own testing.
Based on listed specifications, not hands-on tests. Most links are partner links.
1. Toner pads: for oily, congested skin
medicube Zero Pore Pads 2.0
Pre-soaked pads with two acids: 4.5% lactic acid (AHA) and 0.45% salicylic acid (BHA). One side is rougher, the other smoother. Acids can make skin more sensitive to the sun, so use sunscreen during the day, and test on a small area first if your skin is sensitive.
2. Jelly cream: a light moisturizer
medicube Collagen Jelly Cream
A light, non-greasy jelly cream with hydrolysed collagen and niacinamide in a big 110 ml jar. It suits normal to combination skin as a daily moisturizer. Very dry skin may need a richer cream on top in winter.
3. Overnight mask: the one that turns clear
BIODANCE Bio-Collagen Real Deep Mask (4 pack)
A hydrogel sheet mask that you leave on for several hours or overnight. It turns more transparent as it is absorbed. With only four masks in a pack, the cost per use is high, so treat it as a weekly extra and not as a basic.
4. Lip mask: for dry, chapped lips
LANEIGE Lip Sleeping Mask
A thick balm that you put on before bed and that stays on overnight. It is most useful in cold weather, and it makes an easy small gift. It is pricey for the small amount in the jar.
5. Pimple patches: for the occasional spot
COSRX Acne Pimple Master Patch (240 count)
Thin hydrocolloid patches that cover a pimple and absorb fluid while it heals. They also stop you from picking at it. They work on surface spots and not on deep or painful acne. For persistent acne, see a dermatologist.
6. Balm stick: moisture on the go
KAHI Wrinkle Bounce Multi Balm stick
One stick for lips, the eye area and the neck, which you can also use under make-up. It fits in a handbag and makes no mess. The texture can feel oily on oily skin.
Which one to choose
For most people the pimple patches and the lip mask are the easiest place to start, because they are simple to use and solve one clear problem. Be more careful with the acid pads: follow the label and wear sunscreen. No product here replaces a basic routine of cleansing, moisturizing and sun protection, and none of them treats a skin condition. If your skin reacts, stop using the product.