As someone who’s been passionate about skincare for well over a decade, I’ve tried and tested a lot of Korean skincare products—and I mean a lot! K-beauty is known for its innovative and cutting-edge approach, consistently introducing unconventional ingredients and formulations that later become worldwide trends. Ingredients like centella asiatica (cica), snail mucin, propolis, mugwort, and fermented extracts are just a few examples of how K-beauty has led the way. These ingredients were staples in Korean skincare long before gaining global popularity, showing that when it comes to skincare, K-beauty is often ahead of the curve.
Since 2018, I’ve made a commitment to using products that are free of fragrance, essential oils, and any known irritants. Now I always check the ingredient lists of any product before I buy. I use websites like INCIDecoder, which makes it super easy to ensure a product is free from harsh ingredients.
While I enjoy experimenting with new products, there are a few tried-and-true Korean skincare staples that I always return to. These are the ones I consistently repurchase because they truly deliver results without irritation—gentle enough for all skin types and packed with effective ingredients that my skin loves.
In a world full of constantly emerging skincare trends, these products have earned a permanent place in my routine for their reliability and effectiveness. Whether you’re just diving into K-beauty or you’re already a devoted fan, these are the products I trust to keep my skin looking and feeling its best. So, let’s dive into my top Korean skincare staples that keep my skin glowing year-round.
Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I personally trust and love.
Cleanser
A good cleanser is the cornerstone of any skincare routine. I always look for a mild, low-pH formula to avoid disrupting my skin’s natural barrier. The goal is to remove impurities without stripping the skin of its essential oils, which protect and hydrate. A cleanser should never leave your face feeling tight or squeaky clean—that’s usually a sign it’s too harsh. The ideal cleanser leaves your skin feeling refreshed and balanced, not dry or irritated.
Round Lab – 1025 Dokdo Cleanser
Round Lab’s 1025 Dokdo Cleanser hits all the right marks—it cleanses effectively without leaving the skin feeling tight or stripped. Formulated with soothing mineral-rich seawater from Dokdo Island, this cleanser hydrates while maintaining the skin’s delicate moisture balance. What I love about it is its ability to cleanse deeply yet gently, leaving the skin feeling soft, refreshed, and perfectly balanced—never dry or irritated.
Product Journey: Though I used to swear by Klairs’ Ultra Gentle Cleanser as my holy grail, the price increase
(about $10 since my first purchase) pushed me to find a more affordable alternative. That’s when I discovered Round Lab’s 1025 Dokdo Cleanser, which quickly became a staple in my skincare routine.
By Wishtrend – Green Tea & Enzyme Powder Wash
Green Tea & Enzyme Powder Wash By Wishtrend is a gentle yet effective powder cleanser that provides both cleansing and exfoliation. Formulated with green tea, it’s packed with antioxidants that help neutralize free radicals, while also calming redness and irritation. The unique powder-to-foam formula allows you to control the intensity of exfoliation by adjusting the amount of water you add. More water creates a gentler wash, while less water makes the exfoliation a bit more intense—perfect for when you want a deeper cleanse and a little extra glow.
I switch out my regular cleanser and use this powder wash 2 to 3 times a week to give my skin that deeper clean. It’s an excellent choice when I want to exfoliate without the harshness of physical scrubs or overly abrasive ingredients.
Tip: Don’t over-exfoliate! I learned this the hard way when I was still new to skincare. Over-exfoliation can lead to irritation, redness, and even damage to the skin’s protective barrier. It’s important to give your skin time to recover, especially if you have sensitive skin. A general rule of thumb is to only exfoliate 1 to 3 times a week, depending on your skin’s sensitivity and type.
Toner
Toners are often overlooked in skincare routines, but they play a crucial role in balancing your skin’s pH after cleansing, ensuring that your skin is prepped for the next steps in your routine.
Dear, Klairs – Supple Preparation Unscented Toner
This Dear, Klairs Supple Preparation Unscented Toner has been a staple in my routine for years. It’s incredibly hydrating and leaves my skin prepped for the rest of my routine. The formula is light yet slightly viscous, which adds an extra layer of moisture, making it perfect for layering. It leaves my skin feeling soft, plump, and balanced throughout the day, without being too heavy. No matter what new toner I might try, I always end up coming back to this one for its reliable hydration and soothing effects.
Please don’t get mixed up with the unscented version (the clear bottle) and the original version (the dark bottle). I only recommend the unscented version, as the original contains added fragrance and essential oils, which may potentially cause irritation, especially for sensitive skin types.
Essence
After toner, an essence is an essential step in any skincare routine to boost hydration. It helps your skin retain moisture while providing an extra layer of nourishment.
Rovectin – Aqua Hydration Hyaluronic Essence
I swear by Rovectin’s Aqua Hydration Hyaluronic Essence—it’s a total game-changer. This lightweight yet deeply hydrating product uses hyaluronic acid to draw moisture into the skin, leaving it soft, supple, and perfectly plumped. I love how quickly it absorbs, creating a smooth base for my serums and creams. If you struggle with dry skin, this essence is a must-have. I especially reach for this during colder months when my skin needs extra hydration and protection from dryness. After my first use, I immediately noticed a visible difference the next day in how hydrated and soft my skin felt!
Serum
After the essence step, serums are a powerhouse in any skincare routine, offering concentrated treatment for specific skin concerns.
Beauty of Joseon – Glow Serum: Propolis + Niacinamide
The Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum combines two powerhouse ingredients—propolis and niacinamide—to give your skin a radiant, even tone. Propolis, known for its soothing and antibacterial properties, helps calm inflammation and promote skin healing. Meanwhile, niacinamide improves skin texture, reduces dark spots, and enhances skin elasticity. This serum is perfect for anyone looking to brighten their complexion and maintain a youthful, radiant glow. Its lightweight, non-greasy formula is easily absorbed, making it suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
Numbuzin – No. 3 Skin Softening Serum
Another serum I swear by is Numbuzin No. 3 Skin Softening Serum. If your skin is feeling rough or dry, this serum is great for delivering deep hydration and creating a smooth, soft complexion. It contains a blend of hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which pulls moisture into the skin, and various plant extracts that help nourish and improve skin texture. This serum is especially beneficial for dry or rough skin, providing a plump, dewy finish. It also works as a great base for makeup, helping to smooth out the skin and create a flawless canvas. For anyone struggling with dryness or looking to enhance their skin’s smoothness, this is a fantastic addition to your routine.
Cream
Creams are a crucial step in your skincare routine because they help lock in moisture and provide a protective barrier, ensuring that all the benefits from previous products are sealed in.
Dear, Klairs – Midnight Blue Calming Cream
For anyone dealing with redness or irritation, Dear, Klairs Midnight Blue Calming Cream is a lifesaver. The calming properties of guaiazulene and centella asiatica provide instant relief to inflamed areas, while chamomile gives the cream its signature blue hue, enhancing its soothing effects. It’s the perfect night-time treatment for stressed skin, leaving it balanced and calm by morning.
Sunscreen
Wearing sunscreen every day is one of the most important steps in preventing premature aging and protecting your skin from harmful UV rays. UV radiation is a major cause of skin damage, including wrinkles, dark spots, and even skin cancer. Dermatologists recommend applying sunscreen every 2 hours when you’re out in the sun, and more frequently if you’re swimming or sweating. It’s essential to wear sunscreen year-round, not just on sunny days, as UV rays can penetrate clouds and cause long-term damage.
SKIN 1004 – Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum
The Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum has quickly become a fan-favourite sunscreen for many, especially after its recognition at the HwaHae Beauty Awards 2023. Known as one of Korea’s most trusted beauty awards, HwaHae is a widely used beauty app in South Korea where users share honest reviews, and products are ranked based on real customer feedback.
This SPF 50+ sunscreen is a game-changer for anyone looking to add sun protection without the heavy, greasy feel that many sunscreens can leave behind. It’s formulated with centella asiatica extract, known for its soothing and calming effects, along with hyaluronic acid for long-lasting hydration. Its lightweight, water-based formula absorbs seamlessly, leaving no white cast or sticky residue, making it ideal for layering under makeup or wearing alone. Not only does this sun serum provide reliable UV protection, but it also keeps skin moisturized and comfortable throughout the day—perfect for all skin types, especially those prone to sensitivity and dryness.
Disclaimer: I’m not a skincare expert—just someone who’s passionate about trying new products. These opinions are based on my personal experiences and may not work the same for everyone. Always consider your skin’s unique needs and consult a professional if needed.
Final Thoughts
Korean skincare is full of innovation and exciting new products, but these tried-and-true staples are ones I’ve found myself repurchasing over and over again. They’re reliable, gentle, and effective—perfect for maintaining healthy, glowing skin without any fuss. If you’re building a routine or simply want to add a few trustworthy products, these picks are a great place to start.
Whether you’re a K-beauty enthusiast or just dipping your toes into the world of Korean skincare, I hope this list inspires you to find products that truly work for you. Skincare is personal, and finding those staples that make your skin feel its best is such a rewarding journey. Here’s to happy, healthy skin—one staple at a time!
Xo,
