The Hallyu wave didn’t just sweep through our playlists—it also has our skincare and beauty routine in a chokehold. However, when understanding the popularity of K-beauty, it helps to factor in the fact that Indian skin types have their own unique needs given the topography of the country. If you are looking to make the most of K-beauty’s skin-first philosophy of preventive measures and natural skincare ingredients, here’s what you need to know:
How K-beauty skincare works for Indian skin types
For Dr Kiran Sethi, founder of Isya Aesthetics and author of SkinSense, it is easy to track K-beauty’s immense popularity worldwide given the multi-step skincare routine that it emphasises for a healthy and radiant complexion. “What makes it popular are the unique skincare ingredients, advanced formulations and strong commitment to self-care. But since Indian skin is not the same, it may not always be able to tolerate the same skincare ingredients—especially given our climate with its pollution and high heat.” If you are looking to invite Korean skincare ingredients in your beauty regimen, here are the ones you’ll want to begin with.
Best Korean skincare ingredients to try for Indian skin
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
Effective in addressing concerns like hyperpigmentation, uneven skin tone and fine lines, niacinamide makes for a helpful ally for oily skin—a common concern for the Indian skin type that is prone to producing more oil.
Snail mucin
If you are dealing with extremely dry skin or a compromised skin barrier, you’ll want to make friends with snail mucin, a popular K-beauty skincare ingredient. Look for products with pure mucin as it is an effective agent for wound healing as well as epidermal barrier repair.
COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence
Vitamin C
The benefits of this sunshine vitamin aren’t lost on anyone but here’s a quick recap: Vitamin C does its best work as a topical antioxidant by neutralising free radicals, promoting collagen
synthesis and brightening the skin.
COSRX The Vitamin C 23 Face Serum
Astringent ingredients
Korean skincare is replete with astringent-type ingredients, such as witch hazel and green
tea extract. The latter is loaded with antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties that protects the skin from environmental damage, making it suitable for Indian skin exposed to pollution and harsh weather conditions. Witch hazel’s astringent properties, meanwhile, help to balance oil production and soothe irritated skin.
Belif Witch Hazel Herbal Extract Toner
Minimalist SPF 30 Body Lotion With Vitamin E Glycerin & Green Tea Extract
Centella Asiatica (Cica)
Cica works on calming the skin, especially for those with skin conditions like rosacea. It
helps alleviate redness, inflammation and irritation, making it ideal for Indian skin prone to sensitivity due to factors like pollution and sun exposure.
COSRX Centella Blemish Cream
Korean skincare products to include in your routine
Cleansing balm:
As a crucial first step in Korean skincare routines, cleansing oils and balms work on effectively removing makeup and impurities without stripping the skin of its natural oils.
Sunscreen:
Sun protection is a non-negotiable step in K-beauty skincare, and with good reason. Lightweight, broad-spectrum sunscreens help prevent sun damage and premature ageing of the skin.
Innisfree Intensive Long Lasting SPF50+ PA++++ Sunscreen
Serums:
As concentrated formulations that target specific skin issues, serums can make for a worthy addition to your skincare routine depending on the specific skin concern you are targeting—such as brightening, anti-ageing or soothing.
