Rice Water‍

Heard of glass skin? Well, this Korean skincare ingredient plays an integral role in achieving that. Rich in antioxidants, vitamins and amino acids, rice water helps hydrate the skin while reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and hyperpigmentation. It also has mild exfoliating properties which aid in improving your skin’s texture and brightening dull skin. A match for oily skin too, rice water in your routine not only helps hydrate the skin but also controls sebum production, reducing the appearance of large pores.

Pair your toner with this soothing ampoule that is packed with one of the world’s finest centella. This moisture-locking ingredient works on sensitive or reactive skin, making for a must-have in your skincare routine if you’re facing acne. Every drop delivers a hydration boost, ensuring that your skin stays cool and calm all summer long.

This sunscreen redefines sun protection with its lightweight, non-greasy formula that blends seamlessly into the skin. Enriched with rice extract and probiotics, it hydrates, nourishes, and brightens, making it more than just a sunscreen. With no white cast, it’s ideal for all skin tones and a dream under makeup. ‍

‍

Pro tip: Use a two-finger length for optimal coverage and reapply every two hours for maximum protection when outdoors.

Korean sunscreens have long had the game figured out: lightweight textures, skin-loving ingredients and absolutely zero white cast. Beauty of Joseon’s cult-favourite sunscreen checks every single box—and then some. If you’ve been on Instagram anytime recently, chances are you’ve seen your favourite skinfluencer casually slathering it on mid-routine. It’s become a go-to for a reason: packed with niacinamide, it keeps sebum and moisture levels in check, so you’re never greasy, just glowy. It’s also infused with rice bran and a fermented grain complex that gives it that creamy, hydrating feel without weighing you down. Pro tip: apply at least 15 minutes before heading out the door to let it do its thing.

Beauty of Joseon’s sunscreen isn’t just about protection—it hydrates, too. Packed with rice and probiotics, it helps nourish your skin while keeping it safe from the UV rays. It’s a smooth, lightweight formula that will quickly become your everyday go-to. So restock in bulk to keep your skin covered all year round.

Sun protection is recommended from the age of six months onwards—so you really have no excuse for skipping SPF in your getting-ready routine in the AM. Clinical studies have proven that consistent usage of sunscreen can slow down signs of ageing and the easiest way to hop on the train is with a lightweight, non-greasy formula like this probiotic-enhanced cream by Beauty of Joseon.

Snail mucin

The viral ingredient is not only known for its moisturising and hydrating properties, but is also considered to be an excellent booster of collagen. Snail mucin contains a number of minerals and vitamins that help soothe irritation and inflammation; and also pairs well with antioxidants like retinol and vitamin C. If you can get past the sliminess of this powerhouse ingredient, then it’ll surely be your saviour this winter.

Dreaming of glass skin straight out of a K-drama? Meet the COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence—a lightweight, fast-absorbing serum infused with 96% snail mucin extract. This hydration powerhouse quenches thirsty skin, calms irritation, and smooths fine lines, leaving your complexion plump, radiant, and bouncy. Despite its unusual key ingredient, snail mucin is celebrated for its ability to rejuvenate and repair skin. ‍

‍

Pro tip: Apply to damp skin and press gently to enhance absorption, achieving that coveted dewy glow.

When COSRX launched its now-iconic snail mucin essence, the internet had a collective moment—and for good reason. First, there’s the headline ingredient: 98% snail secretion filtrate (yes, really). Then, there’s the slime-like texture that makes applying it strangely satisfying. But what really caught people off guard wasn’t the snail factor—it was how nourishing it turned out to be. Packed with skin-forward hyaluronic acid, it sinks in fast, leaving skin feeling plump, bouncy and deeply hydrated. Bonus: it’s lightweight enough for summer days and delivers that dewy, glass-skin glow without feeling sticky.

Achieve that fresh, just-bitten lip look with this vibrant water tint. The lightweight formula provides a natural flush of colour that lasts all day, while the Cherry Ade shade—a juicy red—complements all skin tones. Perfect for creating effortless, everyday looks or layering under a gloss for extra shine. ‍

‍

Pro tip: Apply in thin layers for buildable colour, and top with a clear gloss for a plump, dewy finish.

Ever wondered what your lips would look like after a day of foraging for cherries in the countryside? ETUDE HOUSE’s lip and cheek tint has the answer. The fruity hue delivers the just-bit-into-a-cherry effect with a lightweight texture that stays put for hours without feeling heavy on the skin.

Honey serves as a frequent visitor in DIY remedies for hyperpigmentation. But if you are looking to skip the fuss and the muss, you’ll want to call on the best in the K-beauty biz. Sulwhasoo taps into the anti-inflammatory and exfoliating powers of honey to induce healing in areas affected by pigmentation—all delivered in one mess-free, peel-off mask.