Buzz
1. Mighty Patches tackle your pimple worries with their unique hydrocolloid technology, which effectively pulls out all the unpleasant (yet strangely satisfying) pus and impurities from whiteheads — simply apply them to your blemishes and watch as they shrink right before your eyes!
Promising review: "Dealing with 'adult acne' has pushed me to explore every solution, from drugstore products to dermatologist visits. Unlike my teenage years, my current skin issues are more stubborn, with clogged pores that refuse to clear easily. The Mighty Patch has been a game-changer because it effectively brings all the impurities to the surface, making extraction a breeze. It also stops me from constantly picking at my skin, which I know I shouldn't do. I've already finished one sheet!" —Karen Lee
Get a 36-pack of regular patches from Amazon for $11.88 or a 39-pack of the Invisible+ patches (perfect for daytime wear, though you can wear them whenever!) from Amazon for $17.99.
2. Sweet Chef Serum Shots invite you to experience the popular K-beauty "double serum" technique, targeting specific skin concerns. For example, mixing a drop of Beet + Vitamin A (smooths and refines pores) with Ginger + Vitamin C (reduces dark spots and evens skin tone) creates the perfect formula for achieving "glass skin."
These serums have a lightweight gel-like texture, making them incredibly easy to blend together or use individually.
Purchase them from Glow Recipe for $20 each: Beet + Vitamin A, Kale + Vitamin B, and Ginger + Vitamin C. They also come with stylish, Instagram-worthy sheet masks! The entire Sweet Chef collection is also available at Target!
Promising review: "This product is a game-changer! I've been using it for nearly three years and have no plans to switch. Living in Boston, I needed something ultra-hydrating to combat the harsh winters, but I despise heavy, oily creams (they often cause breakouts for me). This felt incredibly light and refreshing, yet deeply hydrating. After moving to Panama, where the climate is the complete opposite, I still adore this product because its lightweight formula is ideal for the intense humidity here." —ngade29
Purchase it from Sephora for $22+ (available in mini and full sizes) or Amazon for $38.42 (full size only).
The Aqua Bomb collection also features a sleeping mask and mist.
4. Peach & Lily Glass Skin Serum is your ultimate K-beauty elixir — its potent blend of peach extract, niacinamide, Asian mountain yam extract, hyaluronic acid complex, and peptides transforms your skin into a smooth, poreless masterpiece while deeply nourishing it for long-term health.
Promising review: "I’m completely hooked on this serum—it’s revolutionized my skincare routine. I used to struggle with small whiteheads, uneven pigmentation, and textured skin. Despite having dry skin, this serum has worked wonders for me! My complexion is more even, breakouts have vanished, and my skin feels incredibly hydrated. Please never discontinue this miracle product!" —Chloe
Get it from Ulta for $39.
5. My Skin Mentor Dr. G Brightening Peeling Gel is a physical exfoliator that truly delivers — the gel transforms into tiny cellulose balls that effectively remove dead skin cells and surface impurities, leaving your skin smoother and brighter (thanks to vitamins C and E!).
Despite its powerful exfoliation, it’s gentle enough for sensitive skin and enriched with soothing ingredients like honey, black willow, and aloe.
Promising review: "My skin looks noticeably smoother and brighter, and I feel like my other skincare products are more effective now that dead skin cells aren’t in the way. I’ve been following the 10-step routine for six months with great results, but adding this exfoliating gel has taken my skin to the next level of perfection." —Piano L.
Read our full review, "Here’s The Deal With The Magical Peeling Face Gel Everyone Loves," for all the details!
Get a 4.2 oz bottle from Amazon for $11.99 or an exclusive two-piece set (one 4.2 oz and 2.1 oz bottle each) from Soko Glam for $28.
6. Skinfood Black Sugar Perfect Splash Mask works its wonders in just 10 seconds, delivering impressive results. Its blend of organic Brazilian black sugar and PHA gently exfoliates dead skin cells, balances your skin's pH, and leaves your complexion incredibly smooth and soft.
Promising review: "I adore how convenient this product is to use in the shower! As someone with combination and sensitive skin, it doesn’t cause any irritation. The scent is fresh and clean, with subtle herbal and floral notes. It leaves my skin feeling incredibly smooth and hydrated — I can actually feel it absorbing into my skin, which is such a unique and satisfying sensation." —Jacoya E.
Purchase it from Ulta or Soko Glam for $26.
For more on shower-friendly splash masks, read "If You're Lazy But Want Nice Skin, 15-Second Splash Masks Are The Perfect Skin Care Hack."
7. Innisfree Super Volcanic Pore Clay Mask 2X features real Jeju Island volcanic clusters, which use their natural porous properties to absorb excess oil. This upgraded formula contains double the volcanic ash compared to the original version!
Promising review: "This mask is absolutely incredible. It delivers results similar to GlamGlow Supermud but at a fraction of the cost. It’s highly effective at treating acne, clearing blemishes, and leaving my skin feeling fresh and clean. This has become my holy grail product, and a little goes a long way!" —Aliya
Get it from Amazon for $12.83.
8. Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Tiger Grass Color Correcting Treatment instantly soothes redness with color-correcting capsules that adapt to your skin tone. It also provides UV protection (SPF 30), shields against environmental stressors, and revitalizes tired-looking skin.
9. O.R.G Skincare Mineral Peel Face is ideal for those who want quick results. Simply spray it on, and as you rub it in, a gentle yet effective mix of fruit enzymes, mugwort extract, and natural brighteners like milk thistle and licorice root works to remove dead skin and deeply embedded makeup residue from your pores.
Heads up: your foundation will apply flawlessly afterward.
Promising review: "I’m obsessed with this product! I applied a few sprays to my face, and as I massaged it in, large clumps of dead skin rolled off. I was amazed at how smooth my skin felt afterward — I’m hooked! My face now has a glass-like finish! I also used it on my cuticles, elbows, and knees, and it eliminated dryness and roughness. I’ll definitely be purchasing the larger size soon." —Rosa
Get it from Amazon for $29.49 (also available in a body formula).
10. Mamonde Petal Spa Oil to Foam Cleanser combines the benefits of a double cleanse into one product. The oil transforms into a rich foam upon contact with water, offering a thorough cleanse even when you’re short on time (whether heading to work or bed).
Plus, it has a soothing rose scent — who says you can’t enjoy a spa-like experience at home?
Promising review: "I never expected to find an oil cleanser that worked so well for my oily, acne-prone skin. Mamonde is quickly becoming one of my favorite brands. This cleanser removes all traces of makeup, sunscreen, dirt, and excess oil without stripping my skin’s natural moisture. It leaves my skin feeling hydrated, not tight or dry. I’ve even noticed an improvement in my skin tone. Maybe rose is the secret to solving skin issues — at least for me. I’ll definitely repurchase, as a little goes a long way." —CallMeFafi
Get it from Ulta or Soko Glam for $21.
11. Cosrx Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence is packed with 96% snail mucin to revive dull, tired, and dehydrated skin.
Promising review: "I incorporated this essence into my Korean skincare routine, and it made a noticeable difference. My skin went from looking 'okay' to 'wow, that’s much better.' I have combination skin — mostly dry with some acne-prone areas. This product hydrates the dry patches without causing breakouts in oily zones, and it reduces redness overnight. My skin feels plump and healthy immediately after use. It’s fragrance-free, and the bottle is generously sized, so it lasts a long time." —Annalisa H.
Get it from Amazon for $19.
P.S. It’s free of parabens, synthetic dyes, fragrances, and mineral oils. Hooray!
Promising review: "As someone with vitiligo, I have patches of skin with no pigmentation, making me highly sensitive to sun exposure. I’ve tried countless sunscreens, but this one stands out. It doesn’t feel or look like sunscreen, yet it performs exceptionally well. It’s creamy without being greasy and absorbs like a regular lotion. I use it on my face, neck, chest, and arms. While it’s pricey for the size, it’s the best I’ve found in 38 years, and I’m happy to pay for it." —A. Rhodes
Get it from Amazon for $25.
13. Dr. Oracle A-Thera Tea Tree Peeling Sticks are convenient, pre-soaked cotton swabs infused with lactic and glycolic acids to combat acne and gently exfoliate your skin. A few swipes are all it takes to reveal smoother, clearer skin.
Its gentle formula includes tea tree extract, lemon extract, and bamboo extract, which work together to speed up blemish healing and prevent future breakouts.
Promising review: "I was hesitant to try this product, fearing it might be too harsh. To my surprise, it was incredibly gentle and cleared my blackheads and whiteheads on my chin overnight! It also addressed my skin texture issues, like dry patches and congestion. I’m thrilled with this purchase and will definitely repurchase." —Julia A.
Get a 10-pack from Soko Glam for $24.
14. Private Doctor Minus Serum is developed by a top dermatology clinic in South Korea (ID Hospital) and features ID.SCULPT Technology. This innovative blend of micro-tingling spicules and a patented sodium deoxycholate complex targets sagging skin, restoring elasticity and firmness to your face, neck, and décolleté.
You’ll feel a tingling sensation upon application — it’s similar to what I imagine using a microneedling device would feel like.
Promising review: "I didn’t realize how much I needed this until I tried it! After just two uses, my forehead looked plumper, my frown lines and 'elevens' were less noticeable, my smile lines appeared smoother, and my under-eye bags looked ironed out. While my fine lines are still there, the skin under my eyes is less crepey and more hydrated overall. I use this serum after toner and essences, alongside my other serums, before moisturizing at night. Its thicker consistency makes it better suited for nighttime use, but I’ve woken up to a plumper, healthier-looking complexion every morning since I started using it." —MichelleHaha
Get it from Sephora for $49.
15. Cosrx One Step Original Clear Pads are pre-soaked toning pads infused with betaine salicylate and willow bark water to eliminate blemishes, keeping oily and combination skin clear and balanced.
Promising review: "I’ve struggled with excessively oily skin for years, and nothing worked until I tried these pads. My skin is now oil-free, my acne has calmed down, my scars are fading, and my pores look smaller. These are worth every penny, and I’ll never stop buying them." —Katie
Get a pack of 70 Original Clear pads from Jet for $15.68 (originally $18.90) or Ulta for $20.
For sensitive skin, try the One Step Green Hero Calming Pads, which feature green tea and witch hazel to gently address pores, oiliness, redness, and dehydration.
Here’s a breakdown of the key herbs in this cleanser:
–Wormwood (prevents breakouts)
–Soapberry (detoxifies)
–Sweet flag (cleanses, softens, and removes impurities)
Promising review: "As someone with combination skin — oily t-zone and dry cheeks — this cleanser has been a game-changer. I bought it in November, and it’s still going strong in March. It’s incredibly balancing! My oily areas feel clean but not stripped, and my dry cheeks don’t feel tight or flaky after washing. It removes makeup effortlessly, and my acne-prone, red skin has calmed down significantly. I pair it with the Aqua Bomb Moisturizer, and it’s a perfect match. I can’t wait to see how it performs in the summer when my t-zone gets oilier. I’ll definitely repurchase." —rweller
Get it from Sephora for $26.
17. Glow Recipe Avocado Sleeping Mask envelops dry skin in a hydrating blend of avocado, manuka honey, kaolin clay, and PHA (a gentle exfoliant that’s milder than AHAs and BHAs), providing intense nourishment and repair while you sleep.
While designed as a sleeping mask, it also works wonderfully as a wash-off mask if the texture feels too rich for your skin. Be sure to mix it well with the included spatula to prevent separation. Note: Suitable for most skin types, but those with sensitive skin should proceed with caution.
Promising review: "This mask was a lifesaver after spending time at my dad’s house during the holidays — the dry air wreaked havoc on my skin, but the avocado mask revived it quickly! I also relied on it after wisdom tooth surgery when I couldn’t dedicate much time to skincare. It’s a must-have!" —Darby S.
Get the mask from Glow Recipe for $45 or a limited-edition Avocado Sleep Set (complete with an adorable eye mask!) from Sephora for $45.
Promising review: "I’m usually hesitant to try new products because my skin is so breakout-prone, but my dehydrated skin needed help. This essence has a gel-like texture that’s lightweight yet deeply hydrating. After a week, I noticed my skin looked glowing and even-toned, with no irritation or breakouts. It even seemed to calm existing acne and fade some scars. It’s one of those subtle yet transformative products — you might not notice the changes until you stop using it. My skin is less red, clearer, and more radiant. If you’re unsure, give it a try!" —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $13+. The Snail Bee line also includes a toner, steam cream, lotion, and sheet masks.
Bonus: The mask’s extended bottom section wraps under your chin, keeping it secure (perfect for fidgety users) and hydrating an often-overlooked area! (Pro tip: Rub any leftover essence from the pouch onto your neck and décolletage!)
Promising review: "These masks reignited my love for masking. As someone with oily/combo skin, I was worried about shine, but my face felt incredibly smooth the next morning. The fit is comfortable, and it stays in place well." —Mimi
Get a set of five from Soko Glam for $25.
20. Benton Tea Tree Cleansing Water is more than just a makeup remover (perfect for lazy skincare routines). It contains 70% tea tree leaf water, known for its acne-fighting and sebum-controlling properties.
Promising review: "This product works wonders for my sensitive, combination skin and rosacea! I use it morning and night, and it leaves my skin feeling incredibly soft and supple. My enlarged pores and cheek oiliness have improved, and my skin stays less shiny throughout the day. Highly recommend!" —Gabrielle
Get it from Amazon for $17.07.
21. Etude House Moistfull Collagen Cream delivers intense hydration with super collagen water and baobab oil (sourced from a desert tree that can store up to 120,000 liters of water!). Its lightweight, watery gel texture absorbs quickly, leaving your skin dewy, plump, and free from any heaviness.
Promising review: "This is my ultimate moisturizer, and I’ve tried high-end brands like Clinique, SK-II, La Prairie, and La Mer. I’m on my second jar, and my only wish is that it came in a larger size for the colder months. It absorbs quickly and is incredibly soothing during winter. When my skin gets so dry that even avocado oil stings, this cream causes the least irritation and works wonders. It hydrates, plumps fine lines, and is affordable — a true gem!" —Kelly V.
Get it from Amazon for $13.99.
22. The Plant Base Waterfall Moist Balanced Hyaluronic Acid 100 uses 100% pure sodium hyaluronate, a stable and water-soluble form of hyaluronic acid, to deeply hydrate and plump your skin. Its smaller molecules ensure better penetration for a smoother, more hydrated complexion.
Promising review: "I switched to this ampoule from a hyaluronic serum and couldn’t be happier. I love that it’s pure sodium hyaluronate with no unnecessary additives. It absorbs beautifully, leaving my skin hydrated, smooth, and balanced. My only gripe is that I wish the bottle were larger!" —Dana S.
Get it from Soko Glam for $23.
23. Acwell Licorice pH Balancing Essence Mist is a versatile product that can replace a heavier essence, serve as a midday hydration boost, or even act as a makeup setting spray. Keep one at your desk and another in your bag for a refreshing mist anytime.
This product is packed with nourishing and brightening ingredients like saccharomyces ferment filtrate, bamboo water, algae extract, licorice root extract, and centella asiatica leaf water. It’s free from alcohol, parabens, and artificial fragrances.
Promising review: "This essence is fantastic. The fine mist makes it perfect for quick morning use when I’m in a hurry. It leaves my skin feeling refreshed and hydrated, and I’ve noticed my skin produces less oil than usual." —Alice B.
Check out my full review of the product (#8)!
Get it from Soko Glam for $24.
This product was inspired by the success of the Acwell pH balancing toner!
Promising review: "This moisturizer has been a lifesaver this winter. My skin was drier than ever, leading to breakouts and fine lines. I was hesitant to try a heavy-duty moisturizer, fearing it would feel greasy. While it’s thick and balmy, it absorbs beautifully without leaving a sticky residue. It’s gentle, with minimal fragrance, and feels like a deep conditioning treatment for your face. My skin looks radiant, rough patches are smoothed out, and fine lines are less visible. My makeup applies much more smoothly and doesn’t settle into dry areas or lines anymore." —Morgan C.
Get it from Amazon for $19 or Soko Glam for $23.
25. Cosrx Light Fit Real Water Toner to Cream is a unique hybrid product that transforms from a toner to a moisturizer. Its water drop texture, powered by sea water, Vitamins C and E, and niacinamide, penetrates deeply for lasting hydration. Plus, watching the formula disperse into droplets is mesmerizing!
This product’s texture is incredible! It’s perfect for winter skincare routines, as its lightweight, watery finish adds hydration without heaviness. It’s especially great for daytime use, thanks to its Vitamin C content (just remember to wear sunscreen!).
Promising review: "I’m usually too lazy for multi-step skincare, but this product is a game-changer. My skin looks better than it has in ages. It starts creamy but absorbs like a liquid, locking in moisture beautifully." —Kindle Customer
Get it from Amazon for $21.
26. Yuripibu Asiatica Calming Ampoule soothes irritated skin with its potent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, thanks to its 95% centella asiatica content. You’ll be amazed by the brighter, smoother skin it delivers, all while feeling weightless on your face.
Promising review: "My cousin suggested this after a bad facial left my skin red and irritated. This ampoule quickly reduced my redness and, over time, significantly improved my skin’s overall condition." —Skylar
Get it from Glow Recipe for $38.
27. Laneige Water Sleeping Mask (also available in lavender) helps your skin recover overnight by locking in hydration with Hydro Ionized Mineral Water™. Say goodbye to dry, flaky skin!
Promising review: "I apply this before bed, gently patting it into my skin. It’s lightweight, absorbs quickly, and doesn’t feel greasy like other sleeping masks. The subtle scent is soothing, and I wake up with dewy, glowing skin and less inflamed acne. I’ve been using it every three days for a month and barely made a dent in the jar. It’s an amazing product for the price!" —lilianle
Get it from Sephora for $25 — available in lavender and original.
28. Neogen Bio-Peel Gauze Peeling Wine uses a unique three-layer pad technology and lactic acid to remove dead skin cells and deeply cleanse pores. It also contains Resveratrol, derived from red wine, which provides natural AHAs to exfoliate and protect against free radicals.
Promising review: "I’m obsessed with these pads. They smell fantastic, and you can customize the level of exfoliation. I had stubborn bumps around my nose that wouldn’t go away with regular scrubs, but the textured side of these pads worked wonders. It’s not harsh but provides just enough exfoliation to reveal fresh skin. These are perfect for winter when skin tends to be dull and dry. Even the soft side offers a gentle, effective brightening. Just remember to rinse it off afterward!" —Brooke B.
Learn how to use these pads properly in this The Klog article.
Get a pack of 30 from Amazon for $25 or Soko Glam for $27 (also available in lemon and green tea).
29. Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin C Serum gradually brightens your complexion, fades dark spots, and prevents further pigmentation, ensuring your skin stays radiant and glowing.
Important: Store this serum in a cool, dark place like your fridge. Vitamin C naturally discolors over time — a light yellow tint is fine, but a dark yellow means it’s less effective. So, keep it chilled!
Promising review: "After just over a month of use, two large age spots on my cheek have faded significantly and are barely visible. At this rate, they’ll be gone soon. It has a slightly oily texture that spreads easily but doesn’t clog pores or irritate my sensitive skin. UPDATE: I tried a stronger Vitamin C serum but switched back to Klairs because it works far better. My skin is brighter, smoother, and more even-toned, even though it’s a gentle product." —Elisa Q.
Get it from Amazon for $23.
30. Neogen Vita Duo Cream is a two-in-one moisturizer that ensures you never skip this essential step. It combines lightweight, calming Joan Day (green tea and Vitamin C) and Joan Night (lavender and Vitamin E) creams for 24-hour hydration and protection.
Promising review: "I was skeptical about influencer-branded products, but as a fan of Joan Kim, I gave this a try. I’m so glad I did! As someone with combination skin, hormonal breakouts, and sensitivity, finding a moisturizer that hydrates without causing breakouts is tough. This duo is a game-changer. The day cream reduces redness and feels creamy yet lightweight, while the night cream is equally hydrating. I’d recommend this to anyone, especially those with tricky skin. 10/10!" —Delaney Spicer
(Fun fact: Vitamin E stabilizes Vitamin C, making it more effective!)
Get it from Amazon for $32.
31. Sulwhasoo First Care Activating Serum is a powerful first-step serum infused with five premium Korean herbal ingredients, carefully selected from over 3,000 studied in ancient texts. It leaves your skin glowing and supple before you even apply toner, while enhancing the absorption of your follow-up products.
Promising review: "I didn’t want to add another step to my skincare routine, but this serum has been a game-changer for my dry, dehydrated skin. When I apply toner after this, my skin absorbs it better and feels hydrated and supple. This pre-toner step is essential!" —NotAFakeReview
I also trust Jude Chao’s (aka "Fifty Shades of Snail") reviews, so if she’s repurchased it multiple times and says it’s worth the price, IT IS.
Get the original 60 ml bottle from Sulwhasoo or Nordstrom for $84, or the limited-edition 90ml Lunar New Year bottle from Sulwhasoo for $105!
32. Innisfree Youth-Enriched Cream With Orchid is a global bestseller, now upgraded with Orchidelixir 2.0. This formula extracts actives from every part of the Jeju Orchid (which blooms even in winter!) to target early signs of aging and mature skin.
Promising review: "My mom has been obsessed with this cream since I first gifted it to her years ago. I recently tried a sample and now I get why! It has a floral scent, which I enjoy (and my mom adores). It leaves my skin feeling silky and hydrated without being heavy or greasy, and it doesn’t interfere with makeup application. A little goes a long way, and it feels luxurious." —Luchia
Get it from Innisfree for $29. Explore the full Orchid line, including gel-cream (for oily to combination skin) and rich cream (for dry to very dry skin).
33. Whamisa Organic Flowers Deep Rich Essence Toner features a bouncy, 97.5% organic formula packed with dandelion oil, chrysanthemum extract, and oat kernel to transform dry skin into a dewy masterpiece. If you love the 7 Skin Method, you might not even need a moisturizer afterward.
Promising review: "This toner has transformed my dry skin, making it plump and hydrated. I use the 7 Skin Method with it and sometimes skip moisturizer altogether." —Sedes N.
Get it from Glow Recipe for $40 (120 ml) or $67 (300 ml).
Whamisa’s Organic Flowers line also includes a fantastic Damask Rose Mist, Cleansing Oil, Eye Essence, and more.
These products will make you fall in love with your skin like never before:
Looking for something specific? Explore Mytour Reviews to discover the best products for every budget!
The reviews in this post have been edited for brevity and clarity.
If you’re craving more K-beauty recommendations — and who isn’t? — check out these posts:
40 Must-Have Presents for Korean Beauty Enthusiasts
34 Transformative Korean Beauty Essentials Your Skin Will Love
27 Game-Changing Korean Beauty Favorites Backed by Real Users
20 Top Korean Beauty and Skincare Brands You Need to Explore Immediately
