Here are 6 reasons why your acne products aren’t working…
6 Reasons Why Your Acne Products Aren’t Working
If You’ve Bought Every Acne Product Under The Sun But Pimples Are Still Cropping Up, It’s Time To Take A Look At Your Skincare Routine.
Here are 6 reasons why your acne products aren’t working…
It’s an old wives tale that acne is caused by a dirty face. This simply isn’t true. If you’ve been reaching for the cleanser too often chances are you’re doing more harm than good.
Washing your face too frequently, has a negative impact on your skin’s natural pH balance. Cleansing too often not only leads to stripping the skin of its natural oils that protect it. Doing so makes your oil glands overcompensate by making…you guessed it – more oil!
The fix: Stick to cleansing twice a day – once before your day begins and once as it ends.
Try: Subi's Bare Skin Balm for your first, oil-based cleanser and their Powder Cleanser for your second cleanse. This will make sure all your makeup and sunscreen is completely removed and that no debris or residue is left behind.
We get it – dead skin, flakes and scars are nobody’s idea of skin goals, but don’t be tempted to scrub them off or buff them away too often! Exfoliating more than once or twice a week can do more harm than good. Avoid using products with micro beads and large particles because these can disrupt your skin’s delicate barrier and opening it up to a host of bacteria and other complications.
The fix: Keep your exfoliation to once or twice a week.
Try: Jelly Ko Cinnamon Toast Sugar Scrub Foam. Customize your cleanse by adding water to break down the natural sugar crystals to your desired level.
The skincare industry often makes those of us with oily or acne prone skin believe that we need to zap the oil out of our skin. The truth? That squeaky clean feeling you get from many acne products dont just strip the bad oils from your skin but they also strip the natural oils you need. Which then leads to an excess sebum production and the cycle goes on.
The fix: Avoid products that aren’t pH balanced, that contain excess fragrance, alcohol and products that purposely dry out the skin out. Acne products in general like the Mario Badescu drying lotion can often be the culprits. Generally products with the word ‘acne’ found in pharmacies and supermarkets contain drying ingredients worth skipping.
Try: Hydrating toners, like Jelly Ko's Dewy Glaze Toner, which nourishes and soothes skin, adding hydration back into the skin from your first layer of skincare.
When you have oily skin, it makes sense that the last thing you think you need is moisturiser right? Wrong. Moisturiser is a crucial part of skincare for oily skin. This is because when your skin is dry and dehydrated, it works overtime to produce more oil. We cannot stress enough how important keeping your skin protected and hydrated is..so ladies, please remember to moisturise!
The fix: Don’t skip the moisturiser. Give your skin that boost of hydration it needs to balance your oil and water levels.
Try: For those with oily skin, opt for a non-comedogenic moisturiser. We love Some By Mi Miracle 30 Day Moisturiser made with AHA, BHAs and PHAs. We also Love Dr G's Blemish Clear Cream, which contains 5-Cica Complex and naturally derived ingredients. It helps to gently soothe fatigued skin from external irritations.
Everybody has heard the saying ‘you are what you eat’ that said, while it is rarely the sole cause of acne. Acne can be triggered by a number of external factors and diet is one of them. Being aware of what suits your body and what doesn’t is an excellent way to prevent breakouts. Acne often crops up after we have consumed junk food (think anything that’s deep fried or rich in sugar or salt). Acne products can help a lot with managing your acne but a healthy diet gives us that glass-skin glow we all seek!
The fix: Observe what foods cause your breakouts and and what doesn’t and try to avoid these in your diet.
Try: Eating healthy, cutting down on caffeine, drinking water, exercising and hydrating.
We get it, the idea of applying a greasy sunscreen to already-oily skin may sound counterintuitive. However, avoiding sunscreen causes a lot more problems particularly when you are incorporating products like acids into your skincare routine, as these increase your photosensitivity. Make sure to slip,slop and slap.
The fix: Opt for a mattifying or non-comedogenic sunscreen that doesn’t leave white marks and is lightweight.
If you are struggling to figure out why acne your products aren’t working keep these tips in mind – Stay hydrated, protecting your skin, watching your diet and treating the external causes of acne is a great way to start preventing breakouts.
The next step is to find the right products for your skin. Acne products that hydrate, protect and help with blemish control are a great starting point. A healthy skincare routine will not just help you on those awkward days when a pimple pops up but will also prevent blackheads, whiteheads and acne.
If your skin suffers during woolly weather, then grab our recommendations for the best Korean beauty products for winter!
Korean Beauty Products For Winter
If your skin suffers during woolly weather, then grab our recommendations for the best Korean beauty products for winter!
Dry skin is sad skin and can make you look older, as it makes wrinkles and fine lines appear more obvious and your makeup look cakey and flakey.
Korean beauty products are perfect for drier skin, as they are focused on layering and hydrating.
If your skin is particularly dry, focus on rehydrating it with nourishing serums, emulsions, night creams and overnight sleeping masks.
We love d’Alba Piedmont’s First Spray Serum for spritzing throughout the day.
Rough winter feet are often part-and-parcel with the colder weather, with hard winter boots taking their toll on cramped feet.
Forget trekking to a salon in the cold and tend to your tootsies from the comfort of your own heater! Try a luxurious foot healing cream, like APLB Intensive Healing Moisture Foot Cream.
Even the most difficult and severe cases of dry, rough, cracked, hard and thickened skin are no match for this tough-acting cream. Combining the powers of Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid and Salicylic Acid – three of the hardest-hitting acids around – this cream goes to work on dead skin to reveal the baby-soft stuff hiding underneath!
As a bonus, it can also be applied to the knees, feet or any part of the body where dryness and flakiness occurs.
If your lips are falling apart in the wind, then it’s time to turn to the big guns – a lip scrub and a lip mask.
Try this two-step routine for a perfect pout:
If your entire face is feeling like an emery board, then it’s time to hit it with the big guns. Grab Jelly Ko Bubble Tea Steam Cream and get to work.
This Best of K-Beauty-award winning moisturiser is the number one seller on STYLE STORY for good reason - it's perfect for transforming dull, dry, rough and dehydrated skin, especially in winter.
Sleeping Masks are another essential part of any good dry skin routine. This is because they provide intensive hydration directly to the skin overnight while you sleep. They make use of the skin's natural repair cycle to rejuvenate your skin overnight.
How Many Times A Week Can You Use A BHA?
If you are dabbling in the world of BHAs, it can be sometimes by tricky to work out how best to incorporate them into your skincare routine.
From “How many times a week can you use a BHA?” to everything else in between, here are the key things to know about using BHAs in your skincare routine.
To start with the basics, BHA stands for “Beta Hydroxy Acids”. BHAs are a type of skincare acid that work to “degunk” your pores.
Since BHAs are oil soluble, they penetrate through the oil that’s clogging your pores and exfoliate the dead skin cells that have built up. This is why BHAs are recommended for those with oily skin.
In addition to unclogging pores, BHAs have anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties, they can help reshape your pores, and also allow your other skincare products to better penetrate your skin.
If it’s your first time using a BHA product, start off slowly, using the product once a week. The usual way to apply a BHA is after cleansing (and after Vitamin C serum if you use one).
Spread an even amount onto your face, avoiding your eyes. For best results, most experts recommend that you wait for at least 20-30 minutes before applying your next layers of products. This is to allow the acid to take effect without being prematurely neutralized.
Looking to layer your acids? Tune into the Korean Beauty Show podcast:
This depends on a few things, including:
Most BHAs range in strength from 2% to 10%.
Classic K-Beauty acids like COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid contain approximately 4% of betaine salicylate (a type of BHA) and can technically be used every day. However, it’s not a good idea to start using 4% BHA every day if you’ve never tried a BHA before.
If you're new to BHAs, we recommend using a product like Jelly Ko Cinnamon Toast Sugar Scrub Foam instead. This contains Willow Bark extract- a gentle type of BHA that's perfect for clearing the pores without irritation.
For people with sensitive skin, you’ll likely find that 2-3 times a week using a product like this is more than enough. People with a more hardy skin type can even get away with using a BHA every day.
Just be careful you don’t over-exfoliate your skin by over-doing it on the BHAs (especially if you also use manual exfoliants) or you could wind up with everything from excessive dryness, to irritation, redness, and sensitivity. Some people also experience a burning sensation on their skin.
If you have sensitive skin, we recommend using a product like Subi Holo Dream Mask and Brush Set instead. That's because it is a wash-off formula that is much easier to control. It's also free from other irritating ingredients like fragrances and essential oils.
Even though we’re sure you already are using sunscreen every day, be extra careful to apply sunscreen while using BHAs.
The other thing is not to mistake the natural ‘purging’ period of BHAs (which can result in minor breakouts) for a product that is actually incompatible with your skin type. If it’s the latter, the product itself will actually be causing it to break out.
How to tell the difference?
A purging period should only last a short while. It occurs because the product is speeding up your skin’s natural renewal cycle. If you find yourself constantly “purging” and breaking out after using a BHA, this is not normal. It means that the product is not compatible with your skin and you should discontinue using it.
Any other questions about how to use a BHA that we haven’t answered? Drop them in the comments below!
Today, we’re exploring what causes skin to become dry, how to tell if yours is, as well as the K-Beauty products for dry skin to look out for.
]]>If you’re suffering from dry, tight skin, notice flakes appearing or have a dull, rough appearance to your skin, chances are your skin is dry.
Although dryness is a skin type, it can also be caused by your environment and the products you’re using.
Today, we’re exploring what causes skin to become dry, how to tell if yours is, as well as the K-Beauty products for dry skin to look out for.
Dry skin can strike for a number of reasons – some people have naturally dry skin, but others develop it due to external factors. If your skin is not naturally dry, it can become dry because of:
Although many people have dry skin, others are simply dehydrated. How can you tell which is which? The main difference is that dehydrated skin lacks water, whereas dry skin lacks oil.
Skin that is dull or rough in appearance, and is tight even when properly moisturised = dehydrated skin.
Flaky skin that feels rough and dry to the touch = a sign of dryness.
Tune into the Korean Beauty Show podcast to hear more:
K-Beauty is all about layering skincare products, and this works well for dry skin types. Soothe and hydrate your skin by incorporating an essence and serum into your routine.
Dry skin drinks up oil based products and for good reason – they penetrate deep into the skin and allow it to breathe.
We recommend starting with an oil-based cleanser, such as Subi Bare Skin Balm. Follow up with an oil-based serum or oil.
Unlike western toners, which are often astringent and drying because they contain alcohol, Korean toners work well on dry skin because they skip out on irritants and are hydrating.
Try a moisturising K-beauty toner like Jelly Ko Dewy Glaze Toner, which is made on a base of birch sap and contains multiple different forms of hyaluronic acid.
Korean Beauty is famous for its masks, and dry lips are no exception – treat your dry lips to their own mask, like Gelato Glaze Lip Mask, which not only plumps, softens and hydrates lips but actually improves them as well, thanks to 9 essential amino acids.
Sheet masking is a welcome treat for dry skin, particularly in winter. Just remember not to leave your mask pack on too long, or you might actually draw moisture away from your skin (which defeats the purpose!).
Finish your routine with a final layer of nutrition and hydration.
Try Prevention Magazine's 2023 Best of Beauty winning sleep mask, Jelly Ko Cherry Blossom Sleeping Mask. Despite the thick jelly texture, a pea-sized layer applied to skin 30 minutes before bed is all you need to immediately hydrate, soften, plump and smooth skin. Best of all, the cooling jelly texture is perfect for soothing skin.
Dry skin works well with products that contain moisture-binding ingredients like sodium hyaluronate and it’s cousin, hyaluronic acid. Make sure your makeup is doing some heavy-lifting too, with a hydrating BB Cream like Missha’s hit M Perfect Cover BB Cream.
Ceramides are our skin’s natural protection barrier. They are composed of intercellular lipids that act as skin’s defense against environmental aggressors and maintain moisture levels. Ceramides are a great addition to a dry skin routine. Perhaps Korean skincare’s most famous ceramide line is Dr Jart’s Ceramidin line.
This oil works its magic on all skin types, hydrating, moisturising, evening skin tone, softening lumps, bumps, and marks. Try Jelly Ko Bubble Tea Steam Cream.
This divine ingredient fights against aging skin and inflammatory skin conditions. It stimulates cellular renewal and collagen and elastin for firmer, more toned skin.
We love STYLE STORY Best of K-Beauty Award Winner Tosowoong’s Propolis Sparkle Ampoule.
Honey (AKA “Nature’s moisturiser”) is jam-packed full of amino acids and vitamins, making it perfect for dry skin. It is also a humectant, meaning it attracts and retains water.
For a honey-infusion we love Beauty of Joseon Dynasty Cream.
This wonder beauty ingredient retains over a 1000 times its weight in water within the cells of skin, making it an excellent moisturiser. Try Dewy Glaze Toner.
If you’re searching for Korean products for dry skin or another skin type, you can now ‘Shop By Skin Concern’. Simply click ‘Shop By Skin Concern’ for our full drop-down menu for all skin types.
Still feeling overwhelmed or unsure about what products are best for you? Don’t forget you can always contact us for free tailored recommendations for your skin type!
Apieu Milk One Pack Strawberry Milk is an adorable skin-loving face mask shaped like a packet of milk!
Containing Milk Extract, which hydrates the skin and Vitamin C-rich Strawberry Extract, which brightens skin, the milky mask essence is perfect for hydrating your skin.
Strawberry Extract, Milk Extract, Pearl Extract, Glycerin
APLB EGF Collagen Moisture Cream (70ml) is the ideal moisturiser for restoring radiance to tired looking skin. Star ingredient EGF delivers essentials nutrients for glossy, nourished skin. Collagen assist to keep the skin firmer and more supple.
BENEFITS
STAR INGREDIENTS
Hydrolyzed Collagen, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Macademia Seed Oil, Tea Tree Leaf Extract, Witch Hazel Extract
With a light gel texture that's full of moisture, Beauty of Joseon Red Bean Water Gel offers care for oily skin without leaving it greasy. Red bean extract and 3 types of peptides work together to replenish moisture and help skin healthy.
BENEFITS
Minimizes the feeling of oiliness and focuses on providing moisture
Helps to absorb excess sebum
Improve the appearance of wrinkles
Absorbs into the skin with a delicately fresh texture
KEY INGREDIENTS
Haenam Red Bean Extract (44%), Peptide Complex, Glycerin, Betain, Panthenol
If you're after brighter skin for V-Day, then I DEW CARE Bright Side Up (30ml) is where it's at. This brightening & hydrating Vitamin C Serum comes in lightweight, jelly formula that gives skin a plump look.
BENEFITS
Boosts radiance
Improves skin texture
Protects against environmental stressors
Hydrates skin and helps it hold moisture
Formula contains Vitamin C, Vitamin E & B5, Grapefruit extract, Niacinamide
STAR INGREDIENTS
Vitamin C, Vitamin B5 & E, Grapefruit Extract, Niacinamide, Glycerin
If there's any chance of a kiss then don't forget your lips. Korea's best-selling lip tint is Romand's Juicy Lasting Tint, which offers effortlessly plump lips with a vivid tint. Create multiple lip looks with a single product by layering it or leaving it sheer.
BENEFITS
Vibrant tint available in 3 fruity shades
Highly pigmented color stays on all day to give lips a juicy shine
Creates gorgeous glossy lips without any oiliness
Lip gloss + Lipstick + Lip tint-in-one
Clear and syrupy finish with vibrant and unique colors
STAR INGREDIENTS
Lightweight, ultra-versatile and perfect for overnight trips (wink, wink) Subi Brightening Powder Cleanser is a shapeshifter that does the work of several products in one. It cleanses, can even exfoliate and is perfect to leave the house with because it's lightweight and contains no water.
BENEFITS
Contains zero harsh surfactants or sulfate detergents
Made with antioxidant rich Centella asiatica (Cica) combined with nourishing ceramides and brightening licorice extracts
STAR INGREDIENTS
If you want to nail the glossy glass skin look of your favourite celeb then apply a thin layer of Skin79 Orange Super Plus BB Cream to your skin before your date. It imparts a triple effect of high coverage, correcting marks and dark spots along with SPF50 + sun protection.
BENEFITS
SPF50+ PA+++
Maintains long-lasting makeup with a refreshing finish
Covers up all your skin impurities to express bright and clear skin
Not heavily fragranced
Comes in a compact, hygienic and travel-friendly size
Contains a nourishing Phyto-Complex that moisturises & cares for dull, dry skin
STAR INGREDIENTS
Get your glaze on with our deliciously hydrating 2-in-1 essence toner that's bursting with juicy goodness. Your skin will drink up this blend of hydrators, humectants and antioxidants. Rather than plain old water, we infused it with birch sap to plump and nourish skin.
BENEFITS
No artificial dyes or colours
Contains a whopping 155g of product
Does the work of an essence and toner in a single step
Provides deep hydration without any oily feeling or stickiness left over
Helps to nourish and soothe skin from the very first step after cleansing
INGREDIENTS
Betula Alba Leaf Extract, Hyaluronic Acid, Blueberry, Strawberry, Blackberry, Chiana Berry Plant Extract, Adenosine, Arginine
So you’ve thought long and hard on pulling the trigger on some new K-Beauty products and you probably can’t wait to see results. When can you expect the benefits to kick in?
Exactly how long does it take to see skincare results? Let’s take a look.
Just like Rome wasn’t built in a day, there are some skincare products that will take their time before you can see visible results.
Whether you’re just starting out with some new products or have been at it for a while and aren’t quite sure what to expect, it can be hard to know when your products will start showing their best results. As a general rule though, the more that needs to change at your skin’s deeper cellular level (for example brightening your skin, or reducing fine lines and wrinkles), the more time you’re going to need to see results.
It’s also important to keep in mind that just because the results aren’t visible to the naked eye, doesn’t mean that the product isn’t doing its job. If you’re using that miracle anti-ageing cream on a particularly stubborn wrinkle, the results may be occurring below the skin’s surface. Even though you can’t see it right now, your skin is actually improving.
That said, here are some time frames to keep in mind that will help you track the results of your skincare.
You can generally expect to see results from you moisturiser almost instantly. Once absorbed, your skin should feel and look soft and plump! With consistent use, you should expect the full results of your moisturiser within 1-2 weeks.
Take a look at these real results using Jelly Ko Bubble Tea Steam Cream:
While pimples can seem to pop out of nowhere, it will take a little longer to get rid of them. Hydrocolloid patches like Subi’s Perfect Pimple Patch help to speed up the healing process and can minimise the appearance of your acne within 8-12 hours.
While your cleanser’s main job is to… clean your face, there are plenty of cleansers nowadays with extra functions, like helping to manage oily skin or calm blemishes. Give it about a month to see these additional benefits kick in.
There are few ingredients more effective for smoothing out uneven skin and guarding against acne than retinols and retinoids. Results will vary depending on the strength of the retinols, with prescribed retinols showing smoother, brighter skin in as little as 4-6 weeks. Keep in mind however that the stronger the strength, the stronger the side effects. High-strength retinols will definitely leave your skin looking worse for wear at first. Expect dryness, flaking and discomfort for a few weeks if using high strength retinols.
For an extra boost to your skincare goals, it’s hard to go past serums. There’s a huge range of serums for all sorts of skincare goals, which makes it hard to predict how long it takes for results to become visible. As a general rule of thumb though, you should see results from most serums within 6-8 weeks.
Got more questions about how long it takes to see results from your skincare? Drop them in the comments section below!
Inspired by Asian philosophy, which values harmony and balance, Sulwhasoo revives legendary Asian medicinal herbs with advanced modern science. Sulwhasoo offers ultimate skin solutions and deliver holistic beauty where the body and mind are in optimum balance.
Sulwhasoo Products to Try:
That's because it boosts the next products in your routine to make sure your skin gets everything out of them. This is a truly luxurious experience that's worth the splurge if money is no object.
STYLE STORY was the first K-Beauty store in Australia to start stocking COSRX - before it was famous and before it was taken over by Amore Pacific.
COSRX is a famous for a variety of best-selling products for oily and acne-prone skin types. The brand’s vision is to make “practical and high performance cosmetics” using safe and natural ingredients without any side effects.
This is one of K-Beauty’s all-time best-selling products and a repeat winner of STYLE STORY's Best of K-Beauty Awards.
Loaded with replenishing and revitalising nutrients, it gives you the ultimate elasticity and hydration. Think of this as a vitamin boost for your face! It’s designed to be used after your toner and before your serum.
The best part? No sticky, greasy or heavy residue. Just a beautiful light essence that will lock in moisture and promote skin renewal as the day (or night) wears on.
Another K-Beauty brand STYLE STORY has been stocking since 2014 is Laneige. Meaning “snow” in French, Laneige pursues water science as its philosophy to help women achieve a radiant, dewy complexion.
Owned by Amore Pacific, one of the largest companies in South Korea, Laneige began in 1994 and now has stores throughout Asia, the Middle East, Russia, New Zealand, Canada, and the United States.
Dr. Jart is a Korean skincare label made with serious dedication to scientific efficacy, while the designs are simple and aesthetic. All Dr Jart products are thoroughly tested and approved by the consulting group of dermatologists to be safe for all skin types –even hypersensitive skin– and pregnant women.
Long before it became a hit overseas Dr Jart was famous in Korea because it was one of the country's first big hit brands. Originally, the brand's BB Creams were the main attraction in Korea.
Nowadays, this cult favourite moisturising cream from their Ceramidin line is also a household name. That's because increases skin's ability to keep itself hydrated, soft and comfortable.
Dr Jart Ceramidin Cream visibly improves rough skin, flakiness, tightness for dryness and soothes and moisturises chronic dry skin, allergies and itchiness.
Ceramides are our skin’s natural protection barrier but we lose them as we age, leading to a decrease in elasticity and moisture.
Stylized as rom&nd, South Korea-based cosmetics brand romand was founded with the input of celebrated Korean beauty influencer Saeron Min, commonly known as Gaeko. Saerom Min is known for her stunning and transformative makeup techniques, which share the same philosophies as romand’s products. Immediately gaining popularity after launch, romand offers high-quality products that accentuate customers' unique beauty and create Instagrammable results.
Romand's Lip Tints are not only one of the most popular makeup items in Korea, they're best sellers overseas too. That's because the formula allows you to effortlessly plump your lips with your choice of tints.
They perform as lipstick, lip gloss, and lip tint all-in-one, allowing you to create multiple lip looks with a single product.
How To Find Your Perfect Korean Beauty Moisturiser
A great moisturizer is the foundation of any skincare routine, no matter how minimal. If everyone’s skin is unique though, how do you go about finding the best moisturier for you?
Today, we’re covering how to find your perfect moisturiser.
If you’ve got skin that’s prone to oiliness, maybe you skip out on moisturising because you read somewhere that oily skin is moisturised enough. Unfortunately, this couldn’t be further from the truth.
We use moisturisers because they can help with core skin maintenance like:
With so many options, your choices can be daunting. Do you want it light or thick? Gel or cream? And that’s even before we get into the multitude of ingredients!
Even between moisturizers from different brands that have similar ingredients, your skin might respond better to one rather than another.
While there’s no easy way to figure this out there are a few things to make your decision easier.
Skin Type:
Use this as your starting point. In general, thick moisturisers aren’t great if you’ve got oily skin. The same goes for lightweight or gel types on skin that’s dry or flaky. Just because a moisturizer sounds good or is trending on TikTok, that isn’t a reason to buy it. Be honest with yourself and choose your products based on your skin type!
For more about TikTok K-Beauty trends, tune into this episode of the Korean Beauty Show podcast:
Ingredients:
When you know your skin, you’ll be able to figure out the go-to ingredients that suit it. Vitamin C is often in brightening moisturisers. If you’ve got dry skin, you’ll see beta glucan in a lot of Korean moisturisers that are perfect for you. A little research can go a long way here. Luckily, SS Founder Lauren has done the hard work for you! Check out this episode of the Korean Beauty Show podcast where she runs through the perfect Korean Beauty ingredient for your skin type.
Still struggling with how to find your perfect moisturiser? To make things even easier, here’s a list of our picks for the various skin types.
If you're looking for all-rounder that can be used by all skin types, then Cherry Blossom Sleeping Mask is where it's at. This Prevention Best of Beauty-award winning overnight face mask is perfect for oily, dehydrated, combination and mature skin.
Thanks to its versatile formula, it transforms skin overnight while you sleep so that you wake up to bouncy, soft jelly skin the next morning.
As we get older, our skin needs a little extra TLC. If you’re noticing dark spots, wrinkles and lines, try APLB’s Retinol Vitamin A Cream. This beautifully textured moisturizer contains all the ingredients you’d expect for a premium anti-ageing formula. Collagen, retinol, squalane, niacinamide and sea buckthorn deeply nourish and brighten your skin.
Perfect for dull, dry, dehydrated and rough skin Jelly Ko’s Bubble Tea Steam Cream is a do-it-all moisturiser!
Developed in collaboration with Korea’s best cosmetic chemists, this is a nourishing moisturiser that’s suitable for everyone. It is packed with Vitamin E, niacinamide, panthenol and beta glucan. Bubble Tea Steam Cream also contains anti-ageing ingredients to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
If pimples are a common occurrence, add in some acne-busting skincare acids. For a moisturiser packed with tried and true acids, we love SOME BY MI’s AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Cream. This non-greasy gel combines three key acids and helps to remove dead skin. It targets the dirt and debris that can block and clog pores, which also lead to breakouts.
Have you found the perfect moisturiser for your skin? Let us know how you did it and which product you’re loving in the comments below!
If you've been searching for an alternative to the popular 2% BHA from Paula's Choice then you're in luck.
In this blog, we're rounding up some great Korean skincare alternatives that will not only save your wallet but your skin too!
]]>Best Dupes for Paula's Choice 2% BHA
If you've been searching for an alternative to the popular 2% BHA from Paula's Choice then you're in luck.
In this blog, we're rounding up some great Korean skincare alternatives that will not only save your wallet but your skin too!
But first - what exactly are BHAs and what do they do for your skin?
Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA) are a gentler alternative to AHAs. Salicylic acid is the most commonly used BHA today, particularly in western skincare.
Containing many of the same benefits as AHAs, the fat solubility of BHAs dissolve oil and makes them effective on blocked pores, blackheads, whiteheads and acne. BHAs also have anti-inflammatory properties and soothe redness.
This best-selling chemical exfoliant clears dead skin to assist with breakouts. It also provides skin brightening benefits for a more even skin tone.
Unlike most Western BHA products (including Paula's Choice), COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid is formulated using betaine salicylate rather than salicylic acid. We love it because it's not as drying as other BHA products.
Another great Korean beauty alternative to Paula's Choice is Be The Skin Pore Zero Toner. This is a better option for sensitive skin because it deals with skin issues without irritating already sensitized skin.
Containing 85% Willow-BHA, a naturally-derived BHA ingredient, it gently cares for various troubles and dead skin.
Make sure you add both of these products to your wishlist to try.
STYLE STORY – Your Go To For Kbeauty Since 2014
Continuing their streak at the top of the best-seller's list are these luxury acne patches. They're popular because they are the thinnest, most invisible options on the market. Made with hydrocolloid and zero added ingredients (making them perfect for sensitive skin) these truly are a class above.
If you get pimples in hard-to-reach places (like the side of the nose or around your mouth) then these are your patches. The thinness, stickiness and absorptive powers of Subi's patches means they stay in place long enough to effectively tackle the pimples that other patches can't.
The #1 best-selling moisturiser based off bubble tea is a delicious hydrating drink for your face. It contains super ingredients Niacinamide, Vitamin E, Beta Glucan, Pearl, Squalane, Sodium Hyaluronate, Panthenol, Arginine, Adenosine and Allantoin.
Not only is it perfect for dry skin, it also works wonders on dull, dehydrated, rough and lackluster skin types as well.
If you feel like your ordinary moisturiser doesn't sink into the skin but just sits on top then you'll love this skin-softening cream.
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Did you know that the products that you put on overnight while you sleep have the biggest ability to impact your skin? That's because the skin does the majority of its repairing at night, while you're in a state of deep sleep.
If you're looking to make the most of your skin's "Golden Time" then go to bed with the Best of Beauty Award-winning Sleeping Mask. Not only will it soften, hydrate and boost your skin's natural glow, you'll wake up to plump, smooth jelly skin the next morning.
When you need to take it off – ALL off – Subi’s Bare Skin Balm helps remove everything from your skin. A few minutes massaging Bare Skin Balm into your face is all you need to completely remove makeup, sunscreen and grime from your face.
Bare Skin Balm combines antioxidant-rich Australian Lemon Myrtle with dreamy Sea Buckthorn Oil to melt away oil-based impurities like sunscreen, makeup and excess sebum while nourishing the skin with antioxidants, fatty acids and Vitamin E. Subi's super-effective formula is 100% free from alcohol, silicones, mineral oil, synthetic fragrances or colours, sulfate detergents, parabens, urea, DEA, PEGs, TEA or phthalates.
Best of all, you won't experience any blurry vision from this cleansing balm.
It was the number 1 selling toner in 2022 and a Top 5 Best Seller as well. Why Because this deliciously hydrating 2-in-1 essence toner is bursting with juicy goodness your skin will simply drink up.
It contains a blend of hydrators, humectants and antioxidants, starting from the very first ingredient. Rather than plain old water, it's infused with birch sap to plump and nourish skin. It also contains 3 types of hyaluronic acid.
Plus, it nourishes your skin with Birch Sap, Chinaberry plant extract, Ivy Gourd fruit extract, Adenosine, Panthenol and more.
Another consistent best-seller is Dr Jart Cicapair Color Correcting Cream. This unique 2-in-1 makeup product both conceals redness and calms skin as you wear it. The cream changes color from green to beige upon application, offering light makeup coverage.
Offering light makeup coverage, this is unique hybrid is great for those with red, irritated skin. It also provides SPF 22+ protection, and forms a dust barrier to protect the skin from the environment. The formula combines Centella asiatica (aka Cica, Tiger's Grass), houttuynia cordata (aka Heartleaf) and yarrow for a healthy appearance.
Arguably the most popular of all Korean essences, COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence is a vitamin hit for your face. It's loaded with replenishing and revitalizing nutrients (including a whopping 96% snail mucin extract) to help prevent and repair damage.
Snail mucin has the ability to tackle everything from dry patches to acne breakouts. In addition, it can reduce the appearance of uneven skin tone and redness.
The cult-favourite Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask barely needs an introduction. Not only is it famous globally but it's a hit here in Australia too.
Designed to work overnight while you sleep, it guarantees that you'll wake up to plumper, firmer and softer lips!
Thanks to its delicious formula, it not only smells great but also actively hydrates. In addition, it repairs and nourishes lips.
It's the product that took Korea's actresses by storm and now Aussies can't get enough of KAHI Wrinkle Bounce Multi Balm either.
If you haven't tried it yet, it's a moisturising balm that hydrates, improves skin and restores elasticity. Above all, this product is perfect to pop in your bag and use whenever you need during the day.
After using this, your skin will feel amazing and your makeup will sit perfectly all day.
This is the one product guaranteed to change your mind about mist serums if you're on the fence about them. Don't believe us? Well the 14 million bottles of White Truffle First Spray Serum sold globally are the proof in the pudding!
Real reviewer Diane says:
"I totally get the hype around this product, it just feels so nice on the skin and is super hydrating. I find myself using it more than is probably necessary but I’m kinda addicted!!"
STYLE STORY – Your Go To For Kbeauty Since 2014
Snail mucin might not have been popular in Korea since 2014 but the internet couldn't care less.
The TikTok viral COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence
remains one of the most popular Korean beauty products in the English speaking world. It's even a hit among celebs like Em Rata!
Loaded with replenishing and revitalizing nutrients it helps prevent and repair damage, giving you ultimate elasticity and hydration.
Made with 96% all-natural snail secretion filtrate, COSRX Snail Essence is a powerful treatment essence that transforms your complexion for younger, healthier and more elastic skin.
Looking for a snail-free option that delivers similar benefits? Try Hada Labo's Premium Lotion or Mixsoon's Bean Essence. The former is a great option for anyone allergic to dust mites (who often react poorly to snail mucin). The latter is a great option for vegan beauty lovers.
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This is the one product guaranteed to change your mind about mist serums if you're on the fence about them. Don't believe us? Well the 14 million bottles of White Truffle First Spray Serum sold globally are the proof in the pudding!
Real reviewer Diane says:
"I totally get the hype around this product, it just feels so nice on the skin and is super hydrating. I find myself using it more than is probably necessary but I’m kinda addicted!!"
It is one of the most popular toners in Korea for those whose skin has been damaged. Whether you've been exposed to fine dust, pollution or your face has been sensitized, you're guaranteed to love this skin soothing toner.
Heartleaf extract (houttuynia cordata) is well known for its soothing effects and Anua only uses heartleaf grown and harvested in Korea.
Anua's Heartleaf Toner is ideal to soothe, tone, hydrate, and balance the PH level of your skin after cleansing.
Looking for something hydrating? Try Best of K-Beauty Award winning Dewy Glaze Toner.
Another popular product the internet can't get enough of is those pimple patches!
They mightn't be the cutest or most transparent options but Acne Pimple Master Patch does the job, quickly removing blemishes so you can get on with your day.
If you don't love a chunky patch, try Subi's Perfect Pimple Patch, which is coincidentally the #1 selling product on STYLE STORY.
STYLE STORY – Your Go To For Kbeauty Since 2014
Described by one user as "the balm of the Gods", this top-rated cleansing balm combines antioxidant-rich Australian Lemon Myrtle with dreamy Sea Buckthorn Oil.
It not only melts away oil-based impurities like sunscreen, makeup and excess sebum but also nourishes the skin.
If you're still seeing clogged pores after cleansing then this is the balm you need in your routine. Simply massage it into your face for 2-3 minutes and watch as the antioxidants, fatty acids and Vitamin E go to work.
For best results, follow up with a gentle water-based cleanser at your second step.
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Did you know that the products that you put on overnight while you sleep have the biggest ability to impact your skin? That's because the skin does the majority of its repairing at night, while you're in a state of deep sleep.
If you're looking to make the most of your skin's "Golden Time" then go to bed with the Best of Beauty Award-winning Sleeping Mask. Not only will it soften, hydrate and boost your skin's natural glow, you'll wake up to plump, smooth jelly skin the next morning.
If you find your skin getting patchy or flaky during the day, then on-the-go care is what your skin needs. KAHI Wrinkle Bounce Multi Balm is a moisturising balm that hydrates, improves skin and restores elasticity. Above all, this product is perfect to pop in your bag and use whenever you need during the day.
After using this, your skin will feel amazing and your makeup will sit perfectly all day.
Want to learn more about Korean skincare? Tune into the top-rated Korean Beauty Show podcast, hosted by Aussie K-Beauty expert, Lauren Lee:
If you're looking for the perfect product to prep your skin for makeup, set your makeup or even spritz over the top of it during the day then there is one product you need in your routine - White Truffle First Spray Serum.
This is literally the best selling mist spray in Korea, having sold in excess of 14 million units.
If you've been left unimpressed by other mist-type products then this will be a game-changer in your skincare routine.
Another viral Korean makeup product that will level up your routine if you suffer rom redness is Dr Jart's Cicapair Color Correcting Cream. This unique 2-in-1 makeup product conceals redness and calms skin as you wear it, changing from green to beige upon application.
Offering light makeup coverage, this is unique hybrid is great for those with red, irritated skin. It also provides SPF 22+ protection, and forms a dust barrier to protect the skin from the environment. The formula combines Centella asiatica (aka Cica, Tiger's Grass), houttuynia cordata (aka Heartleaf) and yarrow for a healthy appearance.
If you're wanting to level up your beauty routine and money is no object then Sulwhasoo First Care Activating Serum EX is worth every drop. Not only does it hydrate, nourish and visibly firm it is also the perfect base for your skincare.
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This is a truly luxurious experience that's worth the splurge if money is no object.
STYLE STORY – Your Go To For Kbeauty Since 2014
Not only is COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence a beloved product among the TikTok crowd, it has friends in high places too! Even Hollywood celeb and "It Girl" Em Rata has sung its praises.
Snail mucin has the ability to repair everything from dry patches, to breakouts while reducing the appearance of uneven skin tone and redness. In addition, it gives your skin the ultimate elasticity and hydration.
No wonder Em loves using it in her skincare routine!
Justin Bieber has been pictured out and about wearing one of Korean beauty's favourite acne-busters: the pimple patch! It may be humble but when it comes to busting breakouts there's nothing better to use while you're out and about.
Number one selling Subi Perfect Pimple Patch is one of the most invisible options on the market. Made with hydrocolloid and zero added ingredients (making them perfect for sensitive skin) these truly are a class above.
We're sure the Biebs would love these results too:
When it comes to popular hydrating mists in Korea, nothing comes close to d'Alba Piedmont White Truffle First Spray Serum. It's the best selling mist spray in Korea, selling over 14 million units.
Jisoo from Black Pink has revealed that she frequently masks to combat her dry skin. But when she says she loves a face mask she's not kidding - she spilled that sometimes she averages 2-3 masks A DAY!!
When it comes to sheet masks we can't go past our #1 best-selling Benton Snail Bee High Content Mask, which combines active ingredients Snail Secretion Filtrate and Bee Venom. It calms redness, evens out skin tone and brightens your complexion.
For overnight use, Best of Beauty Award winning sleeping mask Jelly Ko Cherry Blossom Sleeping Mask is the way to go. This unique, jelly-textured mask is perfect for cocooning your face with moisture overnight while you sleep. You'll wake up to bouncy, soft jelly skin the next morning.
Natural beauty Suzy believes that cleansing is key to anti-aging. She's so serious about it she even came up with her own cleansing route called "424", which she shared with her fans.
She explained that "424 refers to 4 minutes of massaging cleaning oil all over her face, followed by 2 minutes of massaging with cleansing foam, and 4 minutes of rinsing with water."
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Sounds intense but with the right products it's totally doable!
We've tested it out ourselves and the best products we've found for Suzy's 424 cleansing routine are Subi Bare Skin Balm and Subi Brightening Powder Cleanser
Model and fashion journalist Irene Kim is a firm believer in steaming for better skin. Because hot showers widen your pores with steam, it's the perfect time to get rid of pimples and calm them. Irene revealed that she soaks a cotton swab with a toner or face mist and places it on the affected area.
We've tried it with Jelly Ko Dewy Glaze Toner and it works a treat.
Thanks to the unique formula that contains a blend of hydrators, humectants and antioxidants, your skin will be nourished after your steam. The formula works for all skin types because it is ultra-gentle. Unlike other toners on the market, this contains birch sap, 3 types of hyaluronic acid, Chinaberry plant extract, Ivy Gourd fruit extract, Adenosine, Panthenol and more.
STYLE STORY – Your Go To For Kbeauty Since 2014
The TikTok viral COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence might be the product everyone raves about but this year there's a new essence in town.
Enter - Mixsoon's Bean Essence.
Whereas snail mucin is touted for its ability to repair dry patches, breakouts and give your skin the ultimate elasticity and hydration there's one major problem. It's not vegan.
If you're looking for a vegan alternative to this best-selling essence then try Mixsoon's Bean Essence.
Made with a familiar goopy texture that sinks into the skin it replaces snail mucin with Soybean Ferment Extract, which improves the condition of uneven skin and fight off signs of ageing. It's mild, effective and perfect for daily use.
Best of all, it's great for layering to ensure you get the K-Beauty glass skin glow!
Jelly Ko Dewy Glaze Toner was the number 1 selling toner in 2022 and 2023 and with a deliciously juicy texture your skin will simply drink up it's not hard to see why.
Specifically formulated to be used for the 7 Skins Method, it is the ultimate toner for glass skin in 2024.
Take a look at the difference in the skin when it's used on one side of the cheek vs the other (without):
It contains a blend of hydrators, humectants and antioxidants, including birch sap, 3 types of hyaluronic acid, Chinaberry plant extract, Ivy Gourd fruit extract, Adenosine, Panthenol and more.
For more on how this toner was made, tune into the Korean Beauty Show podcast:
If you have acne prone skin, incorporating a clay mask into your routine several times a week is a must for guaranteeing glass skin. We love Innisfree's Jeju Volcanic Pore Clay Mask for oily skin types. That's because it's made with volcanic clay from Jeju Island.
Innisfree's pore clay mask works like a vacuum on the face, getting rid of blackheads, dirt and impurities from the skin.
If you've got dry, sensitive or mature skin thenSubi's Holo Dream Mask & Brush is the clay mask you need. Unlike many other clay masks on the market, the formula contains zero fragrances or essential oils, which can irritate sensitive skin and rosacea. Instead, it contains Australian Kakadu Plum, Ceramides, Sodium Hyaluronate and Kaolin.
Hyaluronic Acid is one of K-Beauty's favourite ingredients for glass skin because it helps to hydrate, soothe and nourish. Unlike other hyaluronic acid ampoules on the market though, Tosowoong Aqua Ampoule Ampoule comes in an extremely generous 100ml size.
It's perfect for hydrating all skin types and is ideal for layering with the other products in your Korean skin care routine.
For more on dull skin, tune into this episode of the Korean Beauty Show podcast:
If you're after one product to guarantee glass skin it's Jelly Ko Bubble Tea Steam Cream.
Not only does it transform even the most dry, dull, dehydrated skin it also leaves your skin soft, plump, bright and glass-like.
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It contains super ingredients Niacinamide, Vitamin E, Beta Glucan, Pearl, Squalane, Sodium Hyaluronate, Panthenol, Arginine, Adenosine and Allantoin.
If you feel like your ordinary moisturiser doesn't sink into the skin but just sits on top then you'll love this skin-softening cream.
STYLE STORY – Your Go To For Kbeauty Since 2014
It's the product that took Korea's actresses by storm and now Aussies can't get enough of KAHI Wrinkle Bounce Multi Balm either.
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It's the product that took Korea's actresses by storm and now Aussies can't get enough of KAHI Wrinkle Bounce Multi Balm either.
Kahi's Wrinkle Bounce is a multi balm.
It's a little stick that's designed to work as a moisturising balm to hydrate, smooth the appearance of wrinkles, and restore elasticity.
After using it, your skin will feel immediately more hydrated, look more glowy and your makeup will sit perfectly.
How did this K-Beauty trend get started in the first place? Good question!
Throughout the pandemic, Koreans began to turn to contactless services - home delivery; shopping; even working from home. This trend spilled over to the beauty industry, where the demand for contactless skincare or “untact” skincare began to rise.
The untact skincare trend was all about using products that were easy to use anywhere, anytime without putting your hands to your face. Enter - Kahi's Multi Balm, which launched throughout the pandemic with some seriously attention grabbing advertisements.
Want to learn more about Korean skincare? Tune into the top-rated Korean Beauty Show podcast, hosted by Aussie K-Beauty expert, Lauren Lee:
Kahi's Multi Balm hit the market with a splashy product placement campaign (known as PPL in Korea) on one of the nation's biggest dramas, The King: Eternal Monarch. Starring Lee Min Ho (Boys Over Flowers) and Kim Go Eun (Goblin) as leads, the drama was almost as famous for its product placement as it was for its top stars and time-travelling romance. After Kim Go Eun's character began liberally applying her Multi Balm in seemingly every other scene searches on Korean portals like Naver started to go crazy for the "pink stick" she was using.
Since then, the Multi Balm has featured on multiple other dramas, including Extraordinary Attorney Woo. So much so that Kahi even pokes fun at itself for its gratuitous product placement in dramas in ads across Seoul.
As of now, the product has sold over 15 million units. It has spawned hundreds of dupes and led to the rise of a whole new category of skincare product - the multi balm. In addition to being perfect for dry skin and dry weather, it's also ideal to pop in your bag and use whenever you need a refresh during the day.
Have you tried the K-Beauty product that got famous on dramas? Let us know in the comments below.
STYLE STORY – Your Go To For Kbeauty Since 2014
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With an average 4.9 star rating, this is not only one of the highest rated products, it's also the top-seller in Australia.
Jelly Ko's Bubble Tea Steam Cream is a delicious hydrating drink for your face. Inspired by Bubble Tea (the drink!) it contains super ingredients Niacinamide, Vitamin E, Beta Glucan, Pearl, Squalane, Sodium Hyaluronate, Panthenol, Arginine, Adenosine and Allantoin.
It is perfect for dry skin, anyone using Tret in their routine and also works wonders on dull, dehydrated, rough and lackluster skin as well.
If you feel like your ordinary moisturiser doesn't sink into the skin but just sits on top then you'll love this skin-softening cream.
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The number one selling Subi Perfect Pimple Patch also happens to be the top-rated as well. A steal at only $11 for 18 patches, these luxury patches are the thinnest, most invisible options on the market. Made with hydrocolloid and zero added ingredients (making them perfect for sensitive skin) these truly are a class above.
If you get pimples in hard-to-reach places (like the side of the nose or around your mouth) then these are your patches. The thinness, stickiness and absorptive powers of Subi's patches means they stay in place long enough to effectively tackle the pimples that other patches can't.
Winner of a 2023 Prevention Beauty Award for "Best Sleeping Mask", this also happens to be the highest rated sleeping mask as well.
While you're catching up on zzzz's, let this facial treatment do the work of infusing your skin with ingredients to soften, hydrate and boost your natural glow. After a good night's rest, you'll wake up to plump, soft, smooth jelly skin.
This mask is packed with super ingredients like Niacinamide, Panthenol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Betaine, Allantoin...and Cherry Blossom of course!
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Described by some as "the balm of the Gods", this top-rated cleansing balm combines antioxidant-rich Australian Lemon Myrtle with dreamy Sea Buckthorn Oil.
It not only melts away oil-based impurities like sunscreen, makeup and excess sebum but also nourishes the skin.
It contains antioxidants, fatty acids and Vitamin E with a formula that is 100% free from common skin irritants. That means it skips out on alcohol, silicones, mineral oil, synthetic fragrances or colours, sulfate detergents, parabens, urea, DEA, PEGs, TEA or phthalates.
It is no exaggeration to say that this is literally the best selling mist spray in Korea. Having sold in excess of 14 million units, the brand that became famous after Korean stewardess' started using it in flight is now a household name in Korea. In fact, they've got nearly 100 products in their collection!
None of them is more famous that their breakout star, the White Truffle First Spray Serum. Try it today and see what all the fuss is about.
This is not only a worldwide bestseller, it's also one of the most highly rated BB Creams in Australia. Developed by state-of-the art Korean cosmetic company Missha M Perfect Cover BB Cream is a world best BB Cream. It improves the look and texture of your skin, while also providing makeup coverage.
Missha's BB creams are all-in-one makeup products that replace moisturiser, primer and foundation.
Not only is this the top-selling K-Beauty toner, it's also consistently rated 5 stars. Why?
Because the 2-in-1 essence toner formula is bursting with juicy goodness your skin will simply drink up.
It contains a blend of hydrators, humectants and antioxidants, starting from the very first ingredient. Rather than plain old water, it's infused with birch sap to plump and nourish skin. It also contains 3 types of hyaluronic acid.
Plus, it nourishes your skin with Birch Sap, Chinaberry plant extract, Ivy Gourd fruit extract, Adenosine, Panthenol and more.
For more on how this toner was made, tune into the Korean Beauty Show podcast:
As the name suggests, this cleanser was designed to clean and brighten the skin. Made from a beautifully fine powder it's perfect for those with even the most sensitive skin. That's probably while you'll consistently find it at the top of the list of most highly rated Korean skincare products.
It contains antioxidant rich Centella asiatica, combined with nourishing ceramides and brightening licorice extracts.
Its powdered formula makes it a perfect travel companion, and a little really does go a long way. We love to pair it with the Subi Bare Skin Balm for the perfect double cleanse.
STYLE STORY – Your Go To For Kbeauty Since 2014
Another not-to-be-missed J-Beauty staple is this cleansing oil. It contains gentle-on-skin ingredients like pure olive oil and hyaluronic acid. In addition, it offers a mild and hydrating cleanse.
If your skin regularly feels tight after cleansing then you'll love this beloved Japanese beauty cleansing oil.
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This Japanese Vitamin C serum contains both Vitamin C and Vitamin E as well as ingredients that target dark spots, blemishes and acne.
This is the number 1 best-selling product in Japan's whitening essence category. However, there's no need to fear because it doesn't bleach skin. Instead, it targets areas of patchy, uneven or dark deposits.
Thanks to Rohto's advanced technology, the formula includes a highly penetrating and not easily destroyable form of Vitamin C.
The original version of Hada Labo's Premium Lotion this is a cult Japanese Beauty product. Not only does it contain 5 types of hyaluronic acid, it works at various layers of the skin thanks to its variety of molecular weights.This help skin retain moisture, keeping it fresh and plump.
In addition, this lotion has a low pH formulation, making it ideal for all skin types.
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This moisturising cream not only locks in moisture, it also enhances your skin’s natural restorative powers. Luxuriously thick, this formula is ideal for nighttime use but can also be used during the day.
It's perfect to reach for when you need extra moisture or protection against harsh conditions. It leaves your skin soft, hydrated and healthy.
Another not-to-be-missed J-Beauty staple is this cleansing oil. It contains gentle-on-skin ingredients like pure olive oil and hyaluronic acid. In addition, it offers a mild and hydrating cleanse.
If your skin regularly feels tight after cleansing then you'll love this beloved Japanese beauty cleansing oil.
Finally, this unique Premium Milk has a rich, essence-like texture that gently wraps skin in moisture. It provides skin with deep, intense hydration all day long.
Not only does it contain 5 types of Hyaluronic Acid, it also deeply penetrates the skin to lock in, replenish, and restore moisture. The result is deeply hydrated, silky smooth skin.
STYLE STORY – Your Style, Your Story
When it comes to viral trending Korean makeup it can be hard to know which ones are worth the hype and others which are all hot air. Luckily for you, we've tried and tested all the top trending products and here are the ones that stand the test of time and trend!
A Korean makeup spatula is a staple whether you are a makeup pro or total beginner. Beloved by Korea's best artists, this handy tool is ideal for giving you ultra-sheer makeup coverage that barely looks like you're wearing makeup! It provides you with fast, effective makeup application and is also perfect for mixing foundation.
This great makeup tool is perfect to use to adjust the color of liquid foundation, neutralize and evenly mix base makeup and so much more. It thinly applies your base makeup to your face for ultra-sheer coverage. In addition, it can also be used for nail art, eye shadow, eyelashes etc.
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Another viral Korean makeup product that's totally worth the hype is Dr Jart's Cicapair Color Correcting Cream. This unique 2-in-1 makeup product conceals redness and calms skin as you wear it, changing from green to beige upon application.
Offering light makeup coverage, this is unique hybrid is great for those with red, irritated skin. It also provides SPF 22+ protection, and forms a dust barrier to protect the skin from the environment. The formula combines Centella asiatica (aka Cica, Tiger's Grass), houttuynia cordata (aka Heartleaf) and yarrow for a healthy appearance.
This is not only one of STYLE STORY's best selling BB Creams, it is also a worldwide bestseller, having sold over 50 million units. Developed by state-of-the art Korean cosmetic company Missha, the M Perfect Cover BB Cream improves the look and texture of your skin, while also providing makeup coverage.
Missha's BB creams are all-in-one makeup products that replace moisturiser, primer and foundation.
Romand's Lip Tints are not only one of the most popular makeup items in Korea, they're best sellers overseas too. That's because the formula allows you to effortlessly plump your lips with your choice of tints.
They perform as lipstick, lip gloss, and lip tint all-in-one, allowing you to create multiple lip looks with a single product.
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This ultra-fine, translucent finishing powder not only sets foundation and BB Cream but gives your skin an air-brushed finish. In addition, it absorbs oil and sweat for a matte appearance all day long. If you find your makeup needs constant retouching then this is the product you need.
Skinfood's Multi Finish Powder contains peach and sake extracts to soothe and comfort sensitive skin. It is perfect for those who find their makeup sliding around during the day.
Another cult K-Beauty product that's definitely worth the hype is Laneige's Glowy Makeup Serum. This makeup prep serum contains diamond mineral powder, which boosts skin's radiance, leaving it smooth and glowing. In addition, ceramides help balance your skin's oil and water levels.
This serum works beautifully underneath foundation and BB Cream to strengthens the adherence of makeup. It looks as if you applied a hydrating, radiant base and primer.
Banila's Prime Primer has been on the must-try list of K-Beauty products for years. That's because it provides seamless coverage and extends the wear of makeup thanks to Miniproyl and PorePare technology. It not only helps with sebum control and pore care but softly sets onto skin, giving it a silky smooth finish.
Plus, it wicks away sebum on the nose, cheeks and T-Zone.
This cult favourite dark circle eye concealer cream hides dark spots and fine lines. It contains Norwegian salmon oil to boost skin's immunity and covers a multitude of sins from late nights, to lack of sleep and dull under-eyes.
Best of all, Salmon Concealer Cream also works to nourish skin while wearing makeup.
A viral Korean makeup staple for years, Innisfree's No Sebum Mineral Powder is perfect for those looking to keep shine at bay. Say bye-bye to blotting papers and swap them for this sebum control powder. It gives non-greasy, downy baby skin even if you ordinarily have excess sebum and oil
In addition, the formula corrects dull skin tone to keep the skin bright and radiant all day.
STYLE STORY – Your Go To For Kbeauty Since 2014
When it comes to Korean skincare, one of the things that can be tricky for newcomers is wrapping your head around all the ingredients. For a start, there are simply so many ingredients. Many of them, you'll not have heard of or be very familiar with. If you're new to the game, here are the ingredients you won't want to miss!
]]>K-Beauty Ingredients You Need to Know
When it comes to Korean skincare, one of the things that can be tricky for newcomers is wrapping your head around all the ingredients. For a start, there are simply so many ingredients. Many of them, you'll not have heard of or be very familiar with. If you're new to the game, here are the ingredients you won't want to miss!
It's one of K-Beauty's favourite ingredients going on at least five years now. Centella asiatica is a plant that grows in the marshy soils of Southeast Asia, Australia, and Africa. It is known for its restorative effects and wound healing characteristics.
In beauty products, it's used for its smoothing, soothing and purifying properties. However, in K-Beauty it goes by a couple of different names - Cica and occassionally also Tiger's Grass.
Lightweight, ultra-versatile and perfect for everyday use, Subi Brightening Powder Cleanser is a shapeshifter that does the work of several products in one. It cleanses, can even exfoliate and is perfect to leave the house and travel with. Best of all, it has a stellar ingredients list featuring Cica (centella).
This unique all-in-one mist is perfect for the face and body, helping to care for troubled or sensitive skin wherever it occurs. Apply it anywhere your skin is rough, bumpy, red or sensitized for immediate soothing relief.
This is a hydrating serum that nourishes your skin with 29 kinds of gentle yet effective ingredients. Centella is just one of the many green ingredients incorporated, including noni, heart leaf, green tea, and mugwort. Together, they help relieve tired skin and provide comfort and relief.
Ginseng is a herb that has long been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for its restorative properties, with records of its use going as far back as 196 AD. Taken orally, ginseng has been used to treat everything from tiredness and nausea to lowering blood sugar and boosting the immune system.
Ginseng is so widespread and prized that it’s common in Korea and China to give and receive ginseng supplements as gifts during special holidays. With a growing body of research demonstrating the potential for ginseng as a topical ingredient, TCM-influenced Korean skincare brand Sulwhasoo began formulating ginseng skincare products in 1960. Since then, both Eastern and Western skincare companies have developed products that include ginseng.
No ingredient is more prized in Korean beauty than wild red ginseng. That's because of the ability it has to transform the skin. However, because the process for extracting red ginseng is so much more difficult than cultivated ginseng, it is not a cheap ingredient. That's why you will only find it in the most truly luxurious Korean skincare products.
Like this beloved facial oil.
The History Of Whoo Jinyulhyang Red Wild Ginseng Facial Oil is a once in a lifetime, must-try product for true lovers of Korean skin care products.
This essence takes inspiration from the wedding rituals of Korean nobility, where brides-to-be would bathe in ginseng water for glowing and refined skin before their weddings. Utilising four types of ginseng extract, this essence includes 80% ginseng water for smoother, brighter and more revitalized skin.
Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant that naturally occurs in the skin. It acts as a free radical scavenger and detoxifying agent, defending skin against the visible effects of environmental damage.
The natural decline of glutathione in the body is believed to be a key marker of many outward signs of aging. It is made up of three different amino acids: glutamine, glycine, and cysteine. It is present in every cell in the body.
We love it because it prevents and delays cell damage and death. Studies have shown that people who live well into their old age have high levels of glutathione.
This powerful anti-aging treatment is infused with one of Korea’s favourite ingredients for getting rid of uneven skin tone, glutathione.
Packed with a veritable buffet of hard-hitting anti-aging ingredients, APLB’s unique blend of patented ingredients actively improves the clarity of your complexion
Designed especially for mornings, APLB Glutathione Brightening Tone Up Cream is perfect for dull, uneven skin tones. It gives your skin a totally natural glow up that’s perfect for those suffering from pigmented skin and large, wide pores.
To find out more about glutathione, tune into this episode of the Korean Beauty Show podcast:
Mugwort (AKA a type of “Artemisia”) is in precisely everything at the moment in Korea, so it’s only a matter of time before the western world follows suit and releases it’s own K-inspired Mugwort varietals.
Like Centella asiatica, mugwort is an anti-inflammatory, antibacterial powerhouse. Touted for its ability to reduce redness and sensitivity and comparable to Vitamin C in terms of antioxidant levels, this ingredient is perfect for those with dry, sensitive, and acne-prone skin.
This skin soothing essence comes in a refreshing fluid formula that adheres to your skin and helps other skincare routines to better absorb.
This soothing ampoule is made from 85% mugwort collected from the Ganghwa region of Korea. It is extracted using the Time-Drop method, which helps it to better soothe sensitive skin quickly. Made on a base of 85% mugwort extract rather than water, this green ampoule sinks straight into the skin. It soothes, strengthens and calms all kinds of skin types.
Not only does this popular toner have a minimal ingredients list, it contains a high concentration of Korean mugwort. Thanks to a 100% vegan, cruelty free formula, it is perfect for animal lovers.
Although it might sound gross to the uninitiated, snail mucin has numerous benefits for skin. With its ability to repair, actively hydrate, reduce the appearance of fine lines and help acne scarring, it’s little wonder snail mucin finds itself in some of the hottest K-Beauty products on the market.
Snail mucin naturally contains proteins, elastin, glycolic acid, hyaluronic acid, and copper peptides, which work together to moisturise skin and support collagen. The allantoin found in snail secretion works to calm irritated skin.
This is one of K-Beauty’s all-time best-selling products. Loaded with replenishing and revitalising nutrients, it gives you the ultimate elasticity and hydration. Think of this as a vitamin boost for your face! It’s designed to be used after your toner and before your serum.
The best part? No sticky, greasy or heavy residue. Just a beautiful light essence that will lock in moisture and promote skin renewal as the day (or night) wears on.
One of STYLE STORY's best-selling snail creams, this has a perfectly balanced PH level of 5.5 making it ideal for all skin types. It provides long-lasting hydration, controls the appearance of large pores, and improves skin texture.
This cream is perfect for skin that has been damaged by the external elements, including pollution, sun, and wind. Other star ingredients include Centella asiatica and Macadamia Seed Oil, making this cream a must try.
Trends towards a focus on natural ingredients in skincare have brought attention to a range of botanicals that have a range of great benefits for your skin. Heartleaf, a plant native to Southeast Asia, is appearing in more and more skincare products for its calming and soothing benefits!
A number one seller in Korea, Abib Heartleaf Essence Calming Pump is a skin soothing essence. Formulated with heartleaf extract it helps to create calmer, more nourished skin. Heartleaf is a plant native to Southeast Asia. You'll probably have noticed it appearing in more and more skincare products these days and that's thanks to its skin soothing benefits.
This serum nourishes your skin with 29 kinds of gentle ingredients. It gets its name from the combination of green ingredients, including noni, heart leaf, green tea, centella asiatica, mugwort. When used together, they can help relieve tired skin and provide comfort and relief to sensitive skin.
This is formulated to soothe, hydrate, and moisturize your irritated skin. Begin your first glass skin regimen with Anua heartleaf 80% moisture soothing ampoule! Heartleaf extract (houttuynia cordata) is well known for its soothing effects on the skin. Anua only uses heartleaf ingredients that were grown and harvested in Korea.
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Expert Reveals Top Korean Beauty Picks
Lauren Lee, an expert with over ten years' experience in K-beauty, shares her insights into the Korean beauty products and ingredients that are not to be missed.
Luxury for the skin defined, The History Of Whoo Jinyulhyang Red Wild Ginseng Facial Oil is ideal for anti aging because it contains highly concentrated wild Red Ginseng extracts. No ingredient is more prized in Korean beauty than wild red ginseng because of the ability it has to transform the skin.
The only downside is that it is extremely expensive, which is why you'll only find it in the most luxurious Korean beauty products.
In addition, this formula also contains almond oil and other herbal ingredients, which provide intensive care to mature skin. They assist to diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
I've tried hundreds of Korean BB Creams and cushions over the years but Skin79's BB Cream formulas stand the test of time. I've been obsessed with them since their first launch but there's a reason they're still in my makeup bag - they're just the best. Not only do Skin79's BB Creams cover flaws, brighten skin and prevent oiliness, they adjust to match your skin tone.
The only downside is that (like most other Korean makeup) the shade range is limited. However, Skin79 Hot Pink BB Cream is one of our STYLE STORY K-Beauty Award Winners and a consistent best-seller to boot.
It was the number 1 selling toner in 2022 and has been again this year. Why? Because this deliciously hydrating 2-in-1 essence toner is bursting with juicy goodness your skin will simply drink up.
I specifically formulated essence-style toner to be used when doing the 7 Skins Method, which involves applying multiple layers of toner for hydration.
Take a look at the difference in my skin when I use it vs when I don't:
It contains a blend of hydrators, humectants and antioxidants, starting from the very first ingredient. Rather than plain old water, it's infused with birch sap to plump and nourish skin. It also contains 3 types of hyaluronic acid.
Plus, it nourishes your skin with Birch Sap, Chinaberry plant extract, Ivy Gourd fruit extract, Adenosine, Panthenol and more.
For more on how this toner was made, tune into the Korean Beauty Show podcast:
It might be the best selling mist spray in Korea (selling OVER 14 million units!) but it's also one of my personal favourites. I must have been through 50 tubes of this stuff because it's perfect for my dry skin.
I use this any time my skin feels tight, dry or dull. I always have one on my desk at work because it leaves me looking radiant and hydrated.
Finally, I can't go past one of my all-time favourite Korean obsessions - the lip tint! Romand's Juicy Lasting Tint isn't just my fave though - it's one of the most popular makeup products in Korea and Japan as well.
My go-to shade is Fig Fig, which I love because it's got a buildable colour. It gives me effortlessly plump lips without any sticky residue.
To prep my lips, I apply a thin layer of Gelato Glaze Lip Mask and then pop a few layers of this over the top.
The versatility allows you to create multiple lip looks with a single product. Instant-obsession!
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Searching for a roundup of the best Korean beauty essences in Australia in 2024? You're in the right place.
We're sharing the most popular products you can get for healthy, glowing skin. But let's skip past the obvious examples like COSRX's Advanced 96 Snail Mucin Essence and get onto some products you still need to try!
]]>The Best Korean Beauty Essences in Australia
Searching for a roundup of the best Korean beauty essences in Australia in 2024? You're in the right place.
We're sharing the most popular products you can get for healthy, glowing skin. But let's skip past the obvious examples like COSRX's Advanced 96 Snail Mucin Essence and get onto some products you still need to try!
Touted as the vegan alternative to COSRX's Snail Mucin Essence, MIXSOON's Bean Essence is a similarly hydrating essence.
In addition to a texture that looks very similar to snail mucin, this also hydrates while regulating excess oil production. In addition, it assists to minimise the appearance of large pores.
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If you're searching for a vegan version of the popular milky style products (like Laneige Cream Skin), then Mary & May is a great choice. It is a moisturiser transformed into essence form that works to provide intensive nourishment and moisture to dry skin.
If you love the pricey SK-II Facial Treatment Essence then chances are you'll enjoy the benefits of this anti-aging essence. It is made on a base of Galactomyces ferment filtrate (the same key ingredient in SK-II). It provides 7 benefits for the skin, including improving tone, texture, moisture and nutrition, leaving skin looking hydrated, radiant and glowy. After using this essence, 77.96% respondents said they noticed an improvement in their moisture barrier within 4 weeks.
If you're keen to revitalise your skin, this Essence Wate uses 80% ginseng water instead of normal water.
Beauty of Joseon used four types of ginseng extract in the formula. In addition, 2% Niacinamide and 0.04% adenosine take care of dull skin, wide pores and fine lines.
It was the number 1 selling toner in 2022 and a Top 5 Best Seller as well. Why?
Because this deliciously hydrating 2-in-1 essence toner is bursting with juicy goodness your skin will simply drink up.
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It contains a blend of hydrators, humectants and antioxidants, starting from the very first ingredient. Rather than plain old water, it's infused with birch sap to plump and nourish skin. It also contains 3 types of hyaluronic acid.
Plus, it nourishes your skin with Birch Sap, Chinaberry plant extract, Ivy Gourd fruit extract, Adenosine, Panthenol and more.
For more on how this toner was made, tune into the Korean Beauty Show podcast:
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Meet the Korean Beauty Serum That Sells Every 10 Seconds
Yes, you read that right! There really is a Korean beauty product so popular that one sells globally every 10 seconds. Enter - Sulwhasoo and it's groundbreaking First Care Activating Serum.
Sulwhasoo is one of the oldest, most respected beauty brands in Korea. Tracing its routes back to the early 20th centure, at the heart of Sulwhasoo is Korean herbal medicine. Steeped in a long tradition of Eastern holistic philosophy, and based on a desire to find harmony and balance, Eastern medicine views the body as a whole.
The founder of Sulwhasoo, Suh Sung-whan, spent his childhood in Kaesong, a city renowned for the exceptional quality of its ginseng. His mother produced camellia oil and became his lifelong mentor. Under the watchful eye of his mother and her uncompromising devotion to product quality, Suh learned the value of nature and the importance of high quality ingredients. Determined to make cosmetics using the efficacies of ginseng, he introduced a Ginseng Cream to the market in 1966. This was the beginning of the Sulwhasoo legacy.
Formulated with JAUM Balancing Complex™, a potent cocktail of five Korean herbs, this unique prepping serum is designed to be used as the first step in skincare after cleansing. It hydrates and balances skin, guaranteeing a healthy glow.
The standard bottle sells every 10 seconds and over 400,000 customers have purchased more than 10 bottles.
Why? Because it's the perfect base for your skincare, boosting the next products you use in your routine.
If you want to experience luxury Korea beauty, this is the product you need.
Shop yours here.
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Today, we're doing a roundup of some of the best Korean beauty dupes and swaps for Paula's Choice.
]]>Dupes for Paula's Choice Niacinamide 10%
When it comes to high strength niacinamide skincare, American brand Paula's Choice has made quite a name for itself. Lovers of the brand praise the 10% Niacinamide Booster for its ability to dramatically improve uneven skin tone and refine the appearance of pore size, skin texture and fine lines.
But coming in at around $49 USD ($70 AUD) it's not exactly the most budget friendly on the market.
Enter - K-Beauty and its vast array of high performance skincare for a fraction of the price of comparable western cosmetics.
Today, we're doing a roundup of some of the best Korean beauty swaps for Paula's Choice that also contain high concentrations of niacinamide as the star ingredient. But to start off, what exactly is niacinamide and why is it so good?
A form of Vitamin B3, niacinamide is a skincare ingredient that's best known for effectively brightening dull skin. But it has many other benefits that make it a staple in skin clinics as well. These include:
Measuring in at the same 10% of niacinamide as Paula's Choice, One Thing Niacinamide 10% (150ml) is a great, budget friendly swap.
Ideal for skin brightening, this versatile toner / essence can help reduce dark areas on the skin, leaving it clearer and more radiant.
Niacinamide is considered to be functional whitening ingredient by Korea's Ministry of Food and Drug Safety. It is a natural ingredient that is ideal to help control oil. In addition, it can tackle pore size and even out a poor skin tone.
ONE THING uses only 100% EWG green grade vegetable raw materials, and is a suitable option for vegans.
Unlike Paula's Choice, this product has a very watery texture, which makes it perfect to use in place of toner. Alternatively, you can mix it in with other products like modeling masks or even moisturisers. In Korea, some beauty fans like to mix it with their other toners too.
If 10% of niacinamide isn't enough for you - what about 15%?! While there may not be great data supporting the use-case for such a high content of niacinamide, COSRX has nevertheless delivered a powerful punch with this serum.
It helps to visibly brighten, tone, and diminish the look of pores. The supporting formula is quite different from Paula's Choice, containing Zinc PCA which assists with potential breakouts, Acetylglucosaminel, which helps to gently exfoliate the skin and Allantoin, which promotes skin regeneration.
Another great swap for Paula's Choice is TIAM Vita B3 Source (40 mL). Also measuring in at 10% niacinamide, this brightening serum aims to boost your skin's natural radiance, bounce and glow.
As an added bonus, this serum can also plump up your skin's natural bounce.
Plus, coming in at under $30 AUD it is a considerable saving when compared to Paula's Choice as well. If that's not enough to tempt you - did we mention that Tiam is COSRX's sister brand?
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After slightly less niacinamide in your formula? We don't blame you! Such a high content of niacinamide isn't for everyone. It can be irritating for some and cause signs of over-exfoliation in others.
Plus, these days with so many skincare products containing a functional amount of niacinamide to begin with (hello, Jelly Ko Bubble Tea Steam Cream and Cherry Blossom Sleeping Mask) there's often no need to use such a high-strength product in addition.
Enter AXIS-Y Dark Spot Correcting Glow Serum. This 5% niacinamide serum (50ml) is perfect for dark spots with a lesser risk of irritation from niacinamide. Plus, the addition of plant-derived squalane means it helps the skin retain moisture.
If you are looking for a quality serum to keep skin glowing and healthy then AXIS-Y's Dark Spot Serum is a great pick!
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If you're making your Black Friday wishlist then don't forget to add these must-try Korean skincare products to the list! From underrated products that don't get the air-time they deserve to tried-and-tested favourites, there's guaranteed to be a K-Beauty product for every skin type and budget on this list!
]]>Korean Skincare To Add to Cart this Black Friday
If you're making your Black Friday wishlist then don't forget to add these must-try Korean skincare products to the list! From underrated products that don't get the air-time they deserve to tried-and-tested favourites, there's guaranteed to be a K-Beauty product for every skin type and budget on this list!
Nobody will know what you did last night with Jelly Ko's Cherry Blossom Sleeping Mask. If you're after a hard-working skincare product that goes to work while you go to sleep, then go to bed with our jelly-textured sleeping mask.
Winner of a 2023 Prevention Beauty Award, this top-rated facial mask is designed to soften, hydrate and boost your skin's natural glow. After a good night's rest, you'll wake up to plump, soft, smooth jelly skin.
Designed to clean and brighten the skin, this beautifully fine textured powder offers a low pH cleanse with a versatile formula.
It contains antioxidant rich Centella asiatica, combined with nourishing ceramides and brightening licorice extracts.
Ultra lightweight and free from water, it's perfect for travel. Best of all, a little really does go a long way. We love to pair it with the Subi Bare Skin Balm for the perfect double cleanse.
When it comes to K-Beauty obsessions this skin brightening moisturiser is where it's at. If you've spent a little too long in the sun and your skin is showing signs of it, then this is the cream you want on your face. Not only does it have a stellar ingredients list packed with different types of Vitamin C, it transforms the skin thanks to a beautiful buttery texture that targets dark spots.
The texture is dense and sticky, yet quickly absorbed by the skin without leaving a greasy or heavy feeling.
Formulated specifically for skin in its teens and 20s, Etude House's Soon Jung Cleanser is ideal for younger skin types because it is formulated with minimal ingredients. It's perfect for those dealing with breakouts and compromised skin barriers.
We love that it skips out on potential irritants like synthetic fragrance, mineral oil or parabens because these can irritate damaged skin.
If you are looking to slow down the visible signs of ageing then the APLB Anti Aging Rebooting Nutrition Cream is a great option for you. Made with a formula rich in proteins, vitamins and minerals, it offers an instant hydration hit that will leave your skin plump and radiant.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), macadamia seed oil, propolis extract and Pro-Vitamin B5 make for a well-balanced formula.
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There's one trend on everyone's lips for the beauty industry in 2024. It's multifunctional beauty products!
And seeing as no-one nails a trend quite like Korean beauty, here is our round-up of the best multifunctional Korean skincare products to try for 2024:
This sugar cinnamon treat is perfect for oily and acne prone skin thanks to the 100% customizable formula. Ideal for tackling sebum this product contains 2 functions in 1. Here's how to use it:
As a Cleanser: Dissolve the sugar crystals in your palms first, before applying the foam to a wet face. Voila - it's a regular cleanser!
As an Exfoliant: Apply the scrub to a damp face and gently massage it in. Voila - it exfoliates, dissolving the dirt and debris clogging pores. Watch it melt into a creamy foam that thoroughly cleanses.
As the name suggests, this cleanser was designed to clean and brighten the skin. Made from a beautifully fine powdered texture this ultra-versatile cleanser has a low PH balance which is perfect for all skin types and a dream for those with sensitive skin.
It contains antioxidant rich Centella asiatica, combined with nourishing ceramides and brightening licorice extracts.
The powdered formulation make it a perfect travel companion, and a little really does go a long way. We love to pair it with the Subi Bare Skin Balm for the perfect double cleanse.
If you're new to K-Beauty and have dry skin, chances are you'll love this toner slash essence. Melting a whole bottle of cream into a liquid form, Laneige fills the skin with moisture right from the first step.
Thanks to its deep hydration it is perfect to hydrate dry skin. In addition, it helps to strengthen your skin's barrier. The end result is skin that is supple and soft - as if you just applied cream!
When it comes to gelato it can be hard to choose a flavour. But when it comes to gelato-flavoured lip treats? This is the one on our lips!
With a fruity, Amalfi-flavoured scent and a decadent applicator spatula to help apply it Gelato Glaze Lip Mask is perfect for dry, flaky lips. Lysine and 8 essential amino acids support healthy skin, while decadent oils and butter give your lips a plump sheen.
This Lip Mask offers multiple functions in a single product. You can use Gelato Glaze:
Son & Park’s best-selling Beauty Water has been trending internationally since its release, making the brand a household name in Korea and abroad.
Beauty Water is a revolutionary makeup remover + toner + makeup prep + skin refresher, and it’s been receiving rave reviews from beauty lovers all over the world!
As you would expect of two of Korea’s hottest makeup artists, Beauty Water is perfectly packaged in a sleek glass bottle and comes jam-packed with beautiful ingredients, including rose flower water, orange peel extract, witch hazel and more. It is especially designed to reveal a brighter skin tone and smoother texture, and also mildly exfoliates to get rid of dead skin cells.
It's the product that took Korea's actresses by storm and now Aussies can't get enough of KAHI Wrinkle Bounce Multi Balm either.
If you haven't tried it, it's a moisturising balm that hydrates, improves skin and restores elasticity. Above all, this product is perfect to pop in your bag and use whenever you need during the day.
After using this, your skin will feel amazing and your makeup will sit perfectly all day.
Want to learn more about Korean skincare? Tune into the top-rated Korean Beauty Show podcast, hosted by Aussie K-Beauty expert, Lauren Lee:
Jelly Ko's Bubble Tea Steam Cream is a delicious hydrating drink for your face. Inspired by Bubble Tea (the drink!) it contains super ingredients Niacinamide, Vitamin E, Beta Glucan, Pearl, Squalane, Sodium Hyaluronate, Panthenol, Arginine, Adenosine and Allantoin.
Not only is it perfect for dry skin, it also works wonders on dull, dehydrated, rough and lackluster skin types as well.
This powerhouse cream can easily replace serum, oil and moisturiser in a single step.
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Continuing their streak at the top of the best-seller's list are these luxury acne patches. They're popular because they are the thinnest, most invisible options on the market. Made with hydrocolloid and zero added ingredients (making them perfect for sensitive skin) these truly are a class above.
If you get pimples in hard-to-reach places (like the side of the nose or around your mouth) then these are your patches. The thinness, stickiness and absorptive powers of Subi's patches means they stay in place long enough to effectively tackle the pimples that other patches can't.
Want to learn more about Korean skincare? Tune into our top-rated podcast, the Korean Beauty Show podcast:
Another consistent best-seller is Dr Jart Cicapair Color Correcting Cream. This unique 2-in-1 makeup product both conceals redness and calms skin as you wear it. The cream changes color from green to beige upon application, offering light makeup coverage.
Dr Jart Cicapair Color Correcting Cream is a unique makeup hybrid that is great for those with red, irritated skin. It also provides SPF 22+ protection, and forms a dust barrier to protect the skin from the environment. The formula combines Centella asiatica (aka Cica, Tiger's Grass), houttuynia cordata (aka Heartleaf) and yarrow for a healthy appearance.
The #1 best-selling moisturiser based off bubble tea is a delicious hydrating drink for your face. It contains super ingredients Niacinamide, Vitamin E, Beta Glucan, Pearl, Squalane, Sodium Hyaluronate, Panthenol, Arginine, Adenosine and Allantoin.
Not only is it perfect for dry skin, it also works wonders on dull, dehydrated, rough and lackluster skin types as well.
If you feel like your ordinary moisturiser doesn't sink into the skin but just sits on top then you'll love this skin-softening cream.
When you need to take it off – ALL off – Subi’s Bare Skin Balm helps you get nekkid. She loves a naturally glowing face with no makeup or sunscreen on it, especially before bed. A few minutes massaging Bare Skin Balm into your face is all you need to reveal all. But don’t worry – she’ll never tell!
Bare Skin Balm combines antioxidant-rich Australian Lemon Myrtle with dreamy Sea Buckthorn Oil to melt away oil-based impurities like sunscreen, makeup and excess sebum while nourishing the skin with antioxidants, fatty acids and Vitamin E. Subi's super-effective formula is 100% free from alcohol, silicones, mineral oil, synthetic fragrances or colours, sulfate detergents, parabens, urea, DEA, PEGs, TEA or phthalates.
It was the number 1 selling toner in 2022 and a Top 5 Best Seller as well. Why Because this deliciously hydrating 2-in-1 essence toner is bursting with juicy goodness your skin will simply drink up.
It contains a blend of hydrators, humectants and antioxidants, starting from the very first ingredient. Rather than plain old water, it's infused with birch sap to plump and nourish skin. It also contains 3 types of hyaluronic acid.
Plus, it nourishes your skin with Birch Sap, Chinaberry plant extract, Ivy Gourd fruit extract, Adenosine, Panthenol and more.
For more on how this toner was made, tune into the Korean Beauty Show podcast:
STYLE STORY – Your Go To For Kbeauty Since 2014
Just as you’re changing your wardrobe for fall and winter, it’s a great time to change up your skincare too!
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As the days get shorter and the temperature drops, the best days of summer are behind us. It’s not all doom and gloom though - colder weather means cozy nights in and an opportunity for some great seasonal food.
Just as you’re changing your wardrobe for fall and winter, it’s a great time to change up your skincare too!
During fall there's a wide variance in daily temperatures which can easily break the skin's balance, making it more prone to irritation. Pollution also starts getting worse around October too, as people start heating their houses.
Removing dead skin cells in a timely manner is beneficial for the skin because it helps keep it moisturised, protects it and prevent it from looking dry and congested.
Try: Subi Holo Dream Mask & Brush Set
Whereas in summer we can often opt for lighter, cooler, more minimalist routines in winter, the focus turns to optimal hydration.
The lovely, cooling gel textures that feel great in summer aren't always the best for your winter skincare wardrobe. Instead, you'll want something that’s super nourishing and locks in hydration.
Try: Jelly Ko Bubble Tea Steam Cream
Because you're going to be going thicker and heavier with your layers, it's even more important to start your routine right. Double cleansing keeps your skin free from impurities.
Incorporating an oil-based cleanser or balm into your winter skincare routine will effectively cleanse without drying out your skin. Following up with a gentle foaming cleanser can help remove any leftover debris that pops up during colder weather.
Try: Double Cleansing Duo
Even if you’re into a minimalist routine, now is a great opportunity to add in extra skincare steps if your skin’s feeling a little dry. Layering some extra products is a great way to do this. Remember to start your steps from thinnest to thickest (toner, essence, serum) for best results.
Try: Jelly Ko Dewy Glaze Toner (which doubles as a toner and an essence) and Tosowoong Hyaluronic Acid Aqua Ampoule.
The aim of your fall / winter skincare game is hydration, hydration, hydration. Sleeping masks come into their own now.
Incorporating an effective overnight treatment will keep your skin plump and dewy like a glazed donut even with the cold. Other options include sheet masks (although maybe not the nicest feeling in winter).
Modelling masks are also great, but only for those with a bit of extra time up their sleeves because they are finicky and a bit harder to remove.
Try: Jelly Ko Cherry Blossom Sleeping Mask
If your lips are falling apart thanks to the combination of cooler temperatures and winds, then it’s time to add some special lip care products to your routines.
Many products on the market these days from lip balms to oils and even lip sleeping masks. They transform lips from chapped to supple and soft overnight, and can even double as a lip gloss during winter as well.
Try: Jelly Ko Gelato Glaze Lip Mask
Try these tips for your makeup:
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Thankfully, there are plenty of Korean skincare products that contain similar key ingredients for a fraction of the price.
Galactomyces was first discovered when someone realised that the hands yeast brewers were bright and elastic for their age. After years of research about what in the yeast could be responsible for this exciting phenomenon, Galatomyces was discovered.
Firstly, yeast consists of 50% or more protein, and plenty of essential amino acids. It is also high in Vitamins B, C, K and Beta Glucan. All of these are ideal for keeping the skin in its healthiest condition.
Want to learn more about K-Beauty? Tune into the Korean Beauty Show podcast:
Missha's best-selling essence, Missha Time Revolution First Treatment Essence (Extreme Ferment) has long been touted as a great swap for SK-II. Now in it's fifth generation it not only helps to brighten and improve skin tone but also provides anti-aging care.
The formula uses a Hot & Cold Double Fermentation Process to activate the yeast to offer maximum skincare benefits.
Missha's iconic essence has been a staple in many Korean skincare collections for years. It's a great alternative to SK-II because it provides 8 benefits – soothing, smoothing, balancing sebum levels, moisturising, improving skin tone, firming, fine line repair and boosting. In addition, it's been certified by the KFDA!
If you're after an ultra-budget friendly alternative to SK-II then try COSRX Galactomyces 95 Tone Balancing Essence. This first treatment essence also contains 95% of star ingredient galactomyces ferment extract.
While the formula is more watery, this product is also designed to be the first step in skincare after cleansing. It hydrates and brightens while protecting skin from visible signs of aging.
COSRX is also a cult-favourite Korean essence in its own right. That's because it enhances the skin's natural renewal process, leaves skin suppler and more hydrated. In addition, it brightens a dull complexion.
Another popular K-Beauty swap for SKII is Secret Key Starting Treatment Essence. This dual function essence that targets the signs of aging while improving the skin's radiance. It is made on a base of Galactomyces ferment filtrate,the same as SK-II.
Most effective when used immediately after cleansing, Secret Key's first treatment essence targets the key signs of aging. It provides 7 benefits, including improving skin tone and texture, providing the skin with ample moisture and nutrition, leaving it looking hydrated, radiant and glowy.
After using this essence, 77.96% respondents said they noticed an improvement in their moisture barrier within 4 weeks.
If you love SKII First Treatment Essence but don't love the price tag, try this instead!
The final product on our list is One Thing Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate. This is one of the most popular products in Korea at the moment. That's because it is packed with galactomyces (aka the star ingredient behind SKII's Essence).
Not only does it brighten skin, it also reduces the signs of aging and strengthens your barrier. If you're an animal lover you will love this because it is 100% vegan, and cruelty free.
One Thing's range of single extract toners are ideal for those looking for clean beauty products. This toner is also free from fragrance and essential oils, meaning people with allergies can use it.
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Get our guide to this K-Beauty brand!
]]>Shop Koelf in Australia
Looking to shop the best of Koelf in Australia? You've come to the right place.
STYLE STORY has been delivering Australians the best of K-Beauty since 2014. As Australia's first dedicated online Korean beauty store we introduce you to all the brands, products, trends and tips you need to know.
Want to learn more? Tune into the Korean Beauty Show podcast, which is downloaded in over 142 countries.
KOELF is a Korean cosmetic brand that creates products that are designed to make skincare routines shorter and time to rest longer. Koelf products are therefore simple and easy to use but made with care to produce the best effect on your skin.
As an added bonus, each Koelf product is designed for different parts of the body.
Now, you can easily shop Koelf in Australia at STYLE STORY.
Confused where to start?
Let’s take a look at some of Koelf best-selling products.
Not sure where to start with your Koelf purchases? Try:
These adorable foot masks not only offer nourishing care to help replenish dry feet they also assist to smooth out rough edges. They come with a rose pattern designed in a sock-like shape to hug the curve of your foot nicely.
They are enriched with rose souffle essence containing amino ingredients that moisturise and smooth rough and dry feet.
If you're having a pamper day these are the products to do it. Koelf's Rose Petal Hand Masks is a manicure in a glove, moisturising, soothing and refershing your skin.
Just like the matching foot masks, these hand masks come in a glove-like shape to hug the curve of your hands. They offer comprehensive nourishing hand care with a rose souffle essence.
Have you tried any Koelf products? Let us know your favourites in the comments section below.
STYLE STORY - Your Go To for Kbeauty Since 2014
]]>If you're just starting out with Hanbang cosmetics, here are some brands and products that are not to be missed.
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In Korean beauty, a popular style or category of products is known as "Hanbang".
These are products that are based on techniques or ingredients used in traditional Oriental medicine clinics. These days, there are a large number of Hanbang Korean skincare brands, targeting both the local and international market.
Many Hanbang brands believe that the goal of Hanbang cosmetics is to restore the skin's balance and function. Many focus on the raw ingredients used in their products, in addition to the way those ingredients are processed.
If you're just starting out with Hanbang cosmetics, here are some brands and products that are not to be missed.
Beauty of Joseon products are made using the ingredients that were listed in the “Kyuhab Chongseo“. This was a guide compiled for women in the Joseon Dynasty that focused on skincare for beautiful, clean and pure skin. It typifies the ‘Hanbang’ tradition of Korean ancient traditional skincare.
This was the first Beauty of Joseon product we ever stocked at STYLE STORY (and the brand's first release!)
While it has undergone a few formula and packaging changes since then, this moisturising cream still contains time-honoured Korean herbs. Firstly, it contains rice bran water (29%), Ginseng root water (5%), Squalane (2%) and Niacinamide (2%).
It works to brighten the complexion, firm skin and target the signs of aging for a complexion beautiful enough to rule a nation.
This unique face mask helps to absorb excess oil and gently cleanses away flaky skin and debris without dryness or tightness, with a cooling, soothing texture.
Red bean has played an important role throughout Korean history. It was used as a medicine for its important detoxifying properties and was used as an ingredient in traditional food as well. As recorded in ancient documents, women in Korea's Joseon Dynasty used it with mung bean as a facial cleanser.
Beauty of Joseon's ginseng and snail serum is a newer release that's popular for lightly hydrating your skin.
This one is also enriched with Hanbang ingredients like 63% Ginseng Root Water and 3% Snail Secretion Filtrate. In addition, it can help to brighten a dull complexion.
Want to learn more about Hanbang skincare? Tune into this episode of the Korean Beauty Show podcast:
Undoubtedly one of Korea's best known luxury exports, Sulwhasoo is famous for the use of ginseng in its products. Ginseng is not only internationally renowned for its quality but also for its benefits to both skin and overall health.
Sulwhasoo's journey began with Korean Ginseng, which is why the brand remains dedicated to using it as a key ingredient. Sulwhasoo offers ultimate skin solutions and deliver holistic beauty where the body and mind are in optimum balance.
If you try nothing else from Sulwhasoo make sure it's this serum. Sulwhasoo First Care Activating Serum EX is the ultimate treatment for skin. Not only does it hydrate, nourish and visibly firm it is also the perfect base for your skincare. That's because it boosts the next products in your routine to make sure your skin gets everything out of them.
Firstly, it nourishes and firms skin. Secondly, it helps your next layers of skincare to absorb properly. Finally, it offers a luxury experience and a chance to try Korean skincare at its best.
Sulwhasoo Essential Firming Cream EX (75ml) is another great cream to try if you're after a luxury Korean Beauty moisturiser to fortify mature skin.
Not only does it firm skin but it also strengthens it for an overall younger looking appearance.
It features Black Soybeans and Pueraria Lobata Root extract, as well as Lycium Chinese Fruit extract. When combined this new prescription both lifts the skin and adds resilience.
Sulwhasoo Concentrated Ginseng Renewing Serum
Building on Sulwhasoo's history of ginseng based-skincare, this new luxury Korean Beauty serum features encapsulated ginseng.
The gel type serum not only targets fine lines but also skin texture and tone, to improve its overall bounce.
The History of Whoo embodies regal beauty through the use of traditional Korean royal beauty secrets and tasteful, minimalist packaging. The luxury brand helps minimize the effects of skin aging by fusing Eastern medicine ingredients with the latest skin care technology for its collection of skin care and makeup for women.
The History Of Whoo Jinyulhyang Intensive Revitalizing Eye Cream is a moisture-rich treat for your eyes. With a gentle light texture, this eye cream contains red ginseng which helps to boost collagen, aid circulation and provide firmness to the skin around the eyes.
As one of Korean beauty's hero ingredients, wild red ginseng works wonders for revitalising the skin. Given the time and effort required for extracting red ginseng, it's only found in the most luxurious and treasured Korean skincare products.
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The History Of Whoo Jinyulhyang Red Wild Ginseng Facial Oil 30ml is ideal for anti aging because it contains highly concentrated wild Red Ginseng extracts. Further, almond oil and other herbal ingredients provide intensive care to mature skin. They assist to diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
No ingredient is more prized in Korean beauty than wild red ginseng. That's because of the ability it has to transform the skin. However, because the process for extracting red ginseng is so much more difficult than cultivated ginseng, it is not a cheap ingredient. That's why you will only find it in the most truly luxurious Korean skincare products.
Developed by Korea’s renowned Pyunkang Oriental Medicine Clinic, Pyunkang Yul is a cruelty-free Korean beauty brand that designs cosmetics to get skin glowing. Based on their natural beauty philosophy, Pyunkang Yul rejects the notion of cosmetics as simply another “shopping” item, and instead carefully select each and every ingredient in their products to ensure they are gentle and safe for skin. Pyunkang Yul is devoted to creating products that correct and maintain the right balance of oil and moisture in the skin, to ensure skin is optimally balanced.
Pyunkang Yul is known for creating Hanbang-inspired beauty products incorporating Korean traditional medical ingredients. This Mist Toner is no exception, containing 95.8% Barburry to calm and moisturise sensitive skin.
It's perfect for managing spring skin concerns because it is hydrating but won't weigh the skin down. It has completed safety and anti-skin irritation testing, making it a good option for those whose skin is easily irritated.
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Pyunkang Yul Essence Toner is an intensely hydrating formula designed to deliver nutrition to skin. The formula contains 91.3% milk vecht root, which is full of skin-beneficial betaine and minerals. This gentle, cruelty-free toner is formulated for dry, sensitive skin.
Combining traditional Korean ingredients with modern skincare, Pyunkang Yul Essence Toner provides intense hydration to dry, sensitive skin.
It is perfect for the 7 Skins Method. This product was also a winner in the Best of K-Beauty Awards 2020.
Pyunkang Yul Concentrated Eye Cream offers deep hydration for a refreshed look, and a stronger skin barrier around the eyes.The luscious cream will give your skin a nutritious boost for a healthy, radiant complexion.
Only healthy and necessary ingredients inspired by Pyunkang Yul's Eastern Medicine Clinic were used, avoiding harsh chemicals, artificial fragrances or colours that don't help your skin.
STYLE STORY – Your Go To For Kbeauty Since 2014