15 Best Korean Skin-Care Products Allure Readers Love
Collage: Jemeria Davison; Source images: Courtesy of Allure editors and brandsSave this storySave this story
To find the best Korean skin-care products Allure readers love, we tracked down the products they keep purchasing…and repurchasing. Because if there’s one thing K-beauty fans have, it’s loyalty. Once a product from viral brands like Beauty of Joseon, CosRx, Laneige, or Medicube earns a spot in someone’s routine—whether it’s a glow-boosting toner, a nourishing moisturizer, or a lip mask that rescues dry lips overnight—it tends to stay there.
From traditional staples like ginseng to barrier-loving ceramides and buzzy newcomers like PDRN, the lineup below captures exactly why Korean skin care continues to shape the global beauty conversation. These top-selling formulas (based on what we see Allure readers clicking and actual order data we have access to!) highlight the textures and thoughtfully chosen ingredients K-beauty is known for.
The Top Korean Beauty Products, According to Allure Readers
- Fine-Line Fighter: Beauty of Joseon Revive Eye Serum, $17
- Peel Off for Radiance: Medicube Collagen Night Wrapping Mask, $19
- A Bright Idea: I’m From Rice Toner, $28
- A Few Hours to Glow: Biodance Bio-Collagen Real Deep Mask, $19
- Major Makeup Melter: Ma:nyo Pure Cleansing Oil, $18
- Depuffing Duty: Belif Aqua Bomb Eye Gel, $32
- Barrier-Replenishing Bestie: Aestura AtoBarrier365 Cream, $32
Frequently Asked QuestionsLargeChevron
- Can I trust buying Korean skin-care products online?
- Meet the experts
- How we test and review products
- Our staff and testers
Fine-Line Fighter: Beauty of Joseon Revive Eye Serum
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Beauty of Joseon
Revive Eye Cream Ginseng + Retinal
Amazon
Sephora
Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the Beauty of Joseon Revive Eye Serum
Sarah Han
Why it's worth it: Curious which K-beauty product seems to earn top billing month over month? Beauty of Joseon's viral Revive Eye Serum is an Allure reader mainstay. The product enlivens the brand's Joseon Dynasty-inspired philosophy, which heralds a time when skin care was rooted in herbal medicine (known as hanbang in Korean) and ingredients like ginseng were prized for keeping skin calm, clear, and luminous—long before we called it “glass skin.”
The Revive Eye Serum stays true to these principles, by infusing the formula with anti-inflammatory ginseng to help minimize puffiness, while adding a modern twist in the form of retinaldehyde (a.k.a. retinal). Retinal works a little differently than the retinol you may be more familiar with: It “only requires a one-step conversion to the active form of retinoic acid, unlike retinol, which requires a two-step conversion,” says Hee Jin Koh, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Clifton, New Jersey. In other words, it's a more effective and less irritating way to treat the fine lines and wrinkles around your eyes.
Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han
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"I'm unconvinced eye creams provide long-term, visible results (e.g. minimizing the look of fine lines) without retinoids involved. Beauty of Joseon's Revive has been a staple in that regard. The custardy formula absorbs almost immediately and makes my undereyes look refreshed and slightly brighter. I even dab some onto my forehead lines (not super noticeable as of now, but you can't be too preventative)." —Sarah Han, commerce editor
Peel Off for Radiance: Medicube Collagen Night Wrapping Mask
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Medicube
Collagen Night Wrapping Mask
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
Allure features director Dianna Singh removing the Medicube Collagen Night Wrapping Mask
Dianna Singh
Why it's worth it: If you were the kind of kid who let glue dry on your fingers just so you could peel it off in one oddly satisfying sheet, Medicube’s Collagen Night Wrapping Mask might trigger that same feeling—only this time it’s actually good for your skin. The treatment forms a soft, flexible film over your face that locks in moisture and active ingredients while you sleep. Hyaluronic acid plumps the look of fine lines, niacinamide smooths texture and refines the appearance of pores, and ceramides seal in moisture while reinforcing the skin barrier.
What makes it different from your typical mask is how long it sticks around. Instead of rinsing off after 10 or 20 minutes like a wash-off mask, this one acts like a breathable seal over your nighttime skin-care routine, helping everything underneath it absorb a little better while you sleep. By morning, you peel it off in one satisfying layer, revealing skin that looks smoother and more hydrated. It's no wonder Medicube, and this product in particular, is a rapidly rising favorite among Allure readers.
Tester feedback from features director Dianna Singh
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"The way my skin looks with a layer of Medicube's Collagen Night Wrapping Mask is exactly how I want my skin to look without it: glassy, glowy, and clear. And with each overnight—yes, overnight—application of its niacinamide- and hyaluronic acid-infused formula, I get a little bit closer to that goal. I've been using it once or twice a week, and never cease to be delighted by the satisfaction of peeling it away in the morning." —Dianna Singh, features director
A Bright Idea: I’m From Rice Toner
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I'm From
Rice Toner
Ulta Beauty
Han applying the I’m From Rice Toner
Sarah Han
Why it's worth it: Some of K-beauty’s most beloved ingredients started with a little kitchen DIY. Take rice: For generations in Korea, people saved the milky water left over from rinsing rice and used it as a simple beauty treatment to make skin look brighter and smoother. I’m From’s Rice Toner brings that tradition straight to your bathroom vanity, using goami rice grown in Yeoju—a region known for producing some of Korea’s highest-quality rice thanks to its mineral-rich soil and ideal growing conditions.
The formula also includes niacinamide, a multitasking ingredient that brightens uneven tone, refines the look of pores, and supports the skin barrier. “This toner has a milky, slightly viscous texture that glides over skin and instantly softens,” says Charlotte Cho, esthetician and co-founder of Soko Glam based in New York City. It’s “ideal for skin that can’t handle thick, occlusive layers.”
Tester feedback from Han
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"A hydrating toner or essence is a non-negotiable step of my daytime and nighttime routines. I'm From’s Rice Toner instantly plumps my skin, giving it a brighter, refreshed look and prepping it for the serums, moisturizers, and sunscreens to follow. Now that we're in the office four days a week, I can't be bothered to wear makeup every day—but at least my skin looks nice and glowy." —Sarah Han, commerce editor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: rice extract, adenosine, niacinamide
- Who it's for: everyone, especially those with sensitive skin
- Fragrance-free: yes
PSA on PDRN: Anua PDRN Hyaluronic Acid 100 Moisturizing Cream
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Anua
PDRN Hyaluronic Acid 100 Moisturizing Cream
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
Allure senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin applying the Anua PDRN Hyaluronic Acid 100 Moisturizing Cream
Sarah Felbin
Why it’s worth it: Have you heard about PDRN yet? The buzzy ingredient—traditionally derived from salmon DNA—has been popping up in skin-care formulas everywhere lately. Anua’s PDRN Hyaluronic Acid 100 Moisturizing Cream is one of the latest to spotlight it, and it's made quite an impression on Allure readers. PDRN acts as a repair signal for your skin, supporting recovery and strengthening the barrier over time. Multiple forms of hyaluronic acid deliver a generous dose of hydration, while hydrolyzed collagen reinforces the moisture barrier. Squalane, glycerin, and niacinamide seal in moisture, while calming ingredients like Centella asiatica and madecassoside soothe irritation. Our tester calls it “a perfect moisturizer,” noting that skin feels noticeably more comfortable, deeply hydrated, and less reactive as its barrier gradually gets stronger.
Tester feedback from senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin
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“My perfect moisturizer is lightweight, non-greasy, and deeply hydrating. This one from Anua checks every box. As the thin cream sinks in, it gets to work, moisturizing my sensitive skin (dry, flaky patches and all) while giving me a great glow. I also love that it comes in an easy-to-squeeze tube, so I don't have to stick my fingers into a jar of cream.” —Sarah Felbin, senior commerce editor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: salmon-derived PDRN, collagen, Centella asiatica, squalane, glycerin, niacinamide
- Who it's for: everyone, especially those with reactive skin
- Fragrance-free: yes
A Few Hours to Glow: Biodance Bio-Collagen Real Deep Mask
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Biodance
Bio Collagen Real Deep Mask
Amazon (4-Pack)
Soko Glam (4-Pack)
Sephora (4-Pack)
Allure contributing commerce editor Christa Joanna Lee applying the Biodance Bio-Collagen Real Deep Mask
Why it's worth it: If the idea of sleeping in a sheet mask sounds questionable, it’s fair to wonder how something soaked in serum could stay put all night. The trick is that the gel-like consistency of Biodance's Bio-Collagen Real Deep Mask makes it far less “juicy” than your typical sheet mask. It goes on opaque, then gradually turns transparent as the formula absorbs into your skin—your cue that it’s done its job. While the brand recommends wearing it overnight, you can also put it on during the day (consider it a work-from-home perk); it usually turns transparent after about three to four hours.
The mask is packed with ultra-low molecular weight collagen and oligo hyaluronic acid, which are designed to penetrate more deeply if you have extra-dry skin. “It leaves the skin more glowy and hydrated for hours after application,” says Y. Claire Chang, MD, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist based in New York City.
Christa Lee
Christa Lee
Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee
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"I love this mask for both overnight use and daytime self-care breaks (when I don’t have any Zoom meetings). The jelly-like sheet can be a little delicate and prone to tearing, but once it sets, it clings so well that a few hours in, it’s a tad hard to move your face, which is exactly why it's so effective to lock in the formula. By morning, my skin feels deeply hydrated and looks gorgeously glowy, making it totally worth the effort to stay still in my sleep.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer
More to know
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- Key ingredients: ultra-low molecular weight collagen, galactomyces, oligo hyaluronic acid, allantoin
- Who it’s for: everyone
- Fragrance-free: yes
Major Makeup Melter: Ma:nyo Pure Cleansing Oil
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Manyo
Pure Cleansing Oil
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
Allure senior commerce editor Nicola Dall’Asen using the Ma:nyo Pure Cleansing Oil
Nicola Dall'Asen
Why it's worth it: Ma:nyo’s name comes from the Korean word manyeo, meaning “sorceress”—a playful reference to the idea that great skin care can feel a bit like potion-making. Judging by the 2025 Best of Beauty Award winner’s global following, Ma:nyo's Pure Cleansing Oil definitely works a little magic. A blend of plant-derived oils—like lightweight grapeseed and hazelnut to dissolve excess sebum, antioxidant-rich olive and sunflower oils to nourish, and camellia and evening primrose oils to keep skin soft—melts away sunscreen, makeup (even stubborn waterproof eye makeup), and daily buildup without leaving skin feeling heavy or greasy. The formula also features a few K-beauty staples: Rice bran oil and rice ferment (sake) condition and soften skin, while green tea extract brings antioxidant support. Consider the first step of your double cleanse covered.
Dall’Asen before using the Ma:nyo Pure Cleansing Oil
Dall’Asen after using the Ma:nyo Pure Cleansing Oil
Nicola Dall'Asen
Tester feedback from senior news editor Nicola Dall'Asen
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“Oil cleansing for a few minutes every single night has taken my skin from good to great. When my pores are particularly clogged, I can physically feel the sebum and dirt coming out after rubbing a couple of pumps of this gentle formula into my skin. It's the only reason my facialists are always telling me there's no need for extractions.” —Nicola Dall'Asen, senior news editor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: grapeseed oil, hazelnut oil, olive oil, sunflower oil, squalane, rice bran oil, rice ferment
- Who it's for: people with sensitive, dry, or acne-prone skin
- Fragrance-free: yes
An Unsticky Situation: CosRx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence
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Cosrx
Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence
Amazon
Nordstrom
Dermstore
Han applying the CosRx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence
Sarah Han
Why it's worth it: When it comes to skin care, it’s easy to assume more ingredients mean better results, but sometimes one unusual ingredient can do the heavy lifting. Case in point: snail mucin. CosRx’s Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence helped turn the once eyebrow-raising ingredient into a full-on K-beauty staple. The viral formula—despite looking sticky in the TikTok reels you’ve probably seen—feels surprisingly lightweight on skin. It’s made with 96% snail secretion filtrate, a humectant-rich ingredient known for calming irritation, fading post-acne marks, and supporting skin repair. Hyaluronic acid and allantoin add extra hydration and reinforce the skin barrier.
Tester feedback from Han
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"This is one of the first viral K-beauty products I tried all those (10-ish?) years ago. While it fell off my radar for a while, I've been recently reminded how lovely and hydrating this formula is. The texture is so fun (and surprisingly not tacky seconds after applying), and it gives my skin lots of glow and bounce. I don't deal with a lot of blemishes and acne scars (knock on wood), but this is a real star in that realm, especially when coupled with acne-targeting serums." —Sarah Han, commerce editor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: snail mucin, hyaluronic acid, allantoin
- Who it's for: everyone
- Fragrance-free: yes
Depuffing Duty: Belif Aqua Bomb Eye Gel
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Belif
Aqua Bomb Eye Gel
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
Revolve
Allure senior director of commerce audience & analytics Lexi Herrick applying the Belif Aqua Bomb Eye Gel
Lexi Herrick
Why it's worth it: If you love the cooling feel of gel moisturizers but find most eye creams a little too rich, Belif’s Aqua Bomb Depuffing Eye Gel hits a sweet spot. Inspired by the brand’s fan-favorite Aqua Bomb moisturizer, this eye treatment swaps heavy creams for a refreshing water-gel texture that sinks in fast and layers easily under concealer. The 2025 Best of Beauty Award winner pairs caffeine to reduce the look of puffiness with hyaluronic acid for a hit of hydration that plumps fine lines. Niacinamide brightens the look of dark circles, while adenosine smooths the appearance of wrinkles over time. It feels instantly cooling and lightweight, but still leaves the delicate undereye area looking smoother, brighter, and well-rested.
Tester feedback from senior director of commerce audience & analytics Lexi Herrick
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“The applicator for this eye cream is incredibly smooth and easy to use. This is one of my favorite products to bring with me when traveling or on the go. It's so gentle and hydrating, instantly adding moisture to my undereyes. I also have very sensitive skin under my eyes, and this has never given me an ounce of irritation.” —Lexi Herrick, senior director of commerce audience & analytics
More to know
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- Key ingredients: caffeine, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, vitamin C, adenosine, collagen
- Who it's for: people who want a cooling sensation
- Fragrance-free: yes
Bouncy Undereyes: CosRx The Peptide Collagen Hydrogel Eye Patches
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Cosrx
The Peptide Collagen Hydrogel Eye Patch
Amazon
Nordstrom
Ulta Beauty
Allure associate beauty editor Annie Blay-Tettey wearing the CosRx The Peptide Collagen Hydrogel Eye Patches
Annie Blay-Tettey
Why it's worth it: Right out of the jar, the bright pink hue of CosRx’s The Peptide Collagen Hydrogel Eye Patch tips you off to one of its star ingredients: vitamin B12. The nutrient gives the patches their rosy color and brings soothing properties that calm the delicate undereyes. Hyaluronic acid locks in moisture, making skin look plumper and smoother, while adenosine (a molecule your body naturally produces) stimulates the production of elastin so the area appears firmer over time. The formula also features four peptides to treat the eye area from multiple angles—helping signal collagen production, improve elasticity, and smooth the look of fine lines—while collagen reinforces skin’s bounce. Niacinamide brightens the appearance of dark circles, and caffeine tamps down puffiness, making eyes look more awake.
Tester feedback from associate beauty editor Annie Blay-Tettey
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“After having an allergic reaction that left the skin around my eyes dry and sensitive, these eye patches came to the rescue. I love how light and hydrating they are—plus the serum left over after removing the mask is hydrating, making my undereye area feel soft, smooth, and supple.” —Annie Blay-Tettey, associate beauty editor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: collagen, peptides, hyaluronic acid, caffeine, adenosine, vitamin B12
- # of patches: 60
- Duration of use: single-use
Drenched and Soothed: Dr. Althea Jelly Seal Dewy Mask
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Dr. Althea
Jelly Seal Dewy Mask
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
Why it’s worth it: If you’ve avoided sheet masks because the ones you’ve tried always seem to slip and slide off your face, Dr. Althea’s Jelly Seal Dewy Mask might change your mind. Instead of a typical cotton sheet, it uses a jelly-infused gauze that gently clings to your face like a second skin and locks hydration in like a moisture seal. The formula delivers layered hydration with multiple forms of hyaluronic acid to plump and soften skin. It also features phyto-PDRN derived from lotus leaves to support skin renewal and elasticity, along with calming ingredients like panthenol and madecassoside. And true to Dr. Althea, the mask does not skimp on essence—there’s so much hydrating serum packed in that not a square inch of your face (or even your neck) will be left begging for moisture.
Han applying the Dr. Althea Jelly Seal Dewy Mask
Sarah Han
Han after applying the Dr. Althea Jelly Seal Dewy Mask
Tester feedback from Han
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“Sheet masks are always a treat, but phew, Dr. Althea's masks are just next-level-drenched, and I love it. Because it's a jelly/gel mask, it takes me a little longer to get the mask fully situated, since I have to unfold some stuck corners and nose flaps, but otherwise the fit is fantastic and every inch of it is hugging my face even when I'm staring down at my laptop. The brand recommends 10 to 15 minutes, but I always go a little over the higher end to give the mask time to fully sink in. I always expect my skin to be glowing after taking off sheet masks, but I was still impressed by how **glowy** I really looked. I took 20 extra seconds to pat in the lotus-derived PDRN and hyaluronic acid goodness. Because the mask is so drenched, there isn't as much essence left in the pouch—but that didn't stop me from slathering what I could onto my neck and décolletage.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: 10 types of hyaluronic acid, plant-derived PDRN, panthenol, madecassoside
- Who it’s for: people with sensitive or dry skin
- Fragrance-free: yes
Barrier-Repairing Bestie: Aestura AtoBarrier365 Cream
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Aestura
Atobarrier 365 Cream
Amazon
Sephora
Singh applying the Aestura AtoBarrier365 Cream
Dianna Singh
Why it's worth it: If the name Aestura kind of sounds familiar, it’s inspired by the word estuary—the place where rivers meet the sea and create a nutrient-rich environment where everything thrives. Aestura’s Atobarrier365 Cream aims to help dry, sensitive skin find that same kind of balance. The formula features tiny triple-lipid capsules—ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids—that burst as you apply it, replenishing the very lipids your skin barrier naturally needs. The texture feels rich but absorbs surprisingly quickly, so you can smooth it over your face or rough patches on your body without that greasy, waiting-for-it-to-dry feeling.
Tester feedback from Singh
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"I love Aestura AtoBarrier 365 Cream as much for what it does for my skin as what it doesn't: The rich formula is deeply hydrating without causing irritation or congestion. When I apply it before bed, my skin feels noticeably softer and smoother come morning.” —Dianna Singh, features director
More to know
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- Key ingredients: ceramides, cholesterol, fatty acids
- Who it’s for: people with dry, sensitive skin
- Fragrance-free: yes
Plump It Up: Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask
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Laneige
Lip Sleeping Mask
Amazon
Sephora
Former Allure shopping market editor Angela Trakoshis applying the Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask
Angela Trakoshis
Why it's worth it: Why bother reapplying a standard lip balm every couple of hours when you can be one-and-done with Laneige's Lip Sleeping Mask? Unlike lighter lip treatments that quickly absorb (and disappear), this editor-favorite has a plush, balm-meets-mask texture that forms a cushiony layer over lips to seal in moisture overnight. The 2025 Readers' Choice Award winner uses the brand’s Moisture Wrap technology—hyaluronic acid and minerals that lock hydration in place—along with its Berry Mix Complex that’s rich in antioxidants, to soften rough, flaky lips. Nourishing ingredients like murumuru butter add that signature pillowy feel while conditioning skin as you sleep.
Tester feedback from former shopping market editor Angela Trakoshis
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“I mean, this is the OG when it comes to lip masks. There's a reason it's a top-seller on Amazon. It moisturizes lips for hours on end—no reapplication needed. I apply the smallest amount of this stuff on my dry lips at night and am guaranteed to wake up with soft, hydrated lips in the morning.” —Angela Trakoshis, former shopping market editor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: shea butter, murumuru seed butter, coconut oil
- Who it’s for: everyone
- Shades: 11
- Fragrance-free: no
Like a Hug for Your Skin: Illiyoon Ceramide Ato Concentrate Cream
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Illiyoon
Ceramide Ato Concentrate Cream
Amazon
Yesstyle
Why it's worth it: If there were such a thing as comfort food for your skin, Illiyoon’s Ceramide Ato Concentrate Cream would be it. It features encapsulated ceramides that gradually release to reinforce the skin barrier over time, along with cholesterol and fatty acids that mimic the skin’s natural lipid structure. “It’s one of the most soothing [products] I’ve used—gentle enough for my kids and rich enough to keep my skin from flaking,” says Cho. Alongside ceramides, glycerin draws moisture into the skin, while panax ginseng root extract provides antioxidant support and calms irritation. Even with its thick, cushiony texture, the fragrance-free formula sinks in quickly on both face and body.
Allure commerce writer Lily Wohlner applying the Illiyoon Ceramide Ato Concentrate Cream
Lily Wohlner
Allure contributor Devon Abelman applying the Illiyoon Ceramide Ato Concentrate Cream
Devon Abelman
Tester feedback from commerce writer Lily Wohlner
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“Illiyoon’s K-beauty staple has completely transformed my acne-prone, combination skin over the past two years, and I have its high concentration of plant-based ceramides to thank. It has strengthened my skin barrier, giving me that healthy, hydrated glow and a bouncy, soothed feel, all without irritation or breakouts (which is rare for me!). As a beauty writer who tests endless products, the fact that this moisturizer has remained a constant in my routine for two full years says it all.” —Lily Wohlner, commerce writer
Tester feedback from contributor Devon Abelman
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“My legs are a hot spot for eczema, so I have to be extremely careful about the body-care products I use, or I will be up all night scratching at my skin. Illiyoon’s Ceramide Ato Concentrate Cream is a no-brainer with its fragrance-free formula that blankets skin in comforting moisture and never annoyingly transfers onto clothes.” —Devon Abelman, contributor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: ceramides, glycerin
- Who it's for: all skin types, but especially those with sensitive, reactive skin
- Fragrance-free: yes
Pop and Glow: Sungboon Editor Deep Collagen Retinol Capsule Cream
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Sungboon Editor
Deep Collagen Retinol Power Boosting Capsule Cream
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
Han applying the Sungboon Editor Deep Collagen Retinol Capsule Cream
Sarah Han
Why it's worth it: K-beauty is known for turning skin care into a sensorial experience, and the bright yellow retinol capsules suspended in this plush gel-cream instantly signal a little indulgence. Sungboon Editor’s Deep Collagen Retinol Power Boosting Capsule Cream pairs micro-encapsulated retinol with hydrolyzed collagen to hydrate skin while improving the look of firmness and smoothness. The experience is also a bit different from your typical cream: The formula also includes thousands of pore-sized spicules—tiny needle-like structures derived from marine sponges—that create a subtle prickling sensation while helping active ingredients penetrate more deeply and encouraging cell turnover. Mix more capsules with less gel for dry skin, keep it balanced for normal skin, or dilute it with extra gel if you’re oily or sensitive to retinol.
Tester feedback from Han
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“Leave it to Sungboon Editor to make retinol…fun? The experience of scooping out the sunshine-yellow capsules is a delight, and the gel is really refreshing—perfect for calming down my skin after a long day. I like layering my more hydrating essences and serums—peptides, growth factors, you name it—before slathering on a 1:1 ratio of this capsule cream to balance out my combo skin. I know the jury is still out on spicules, but I find that this cream is gentler and less alarming than the more intense spicule serums I've tried—just my two cents!” —Sarah Han, commerce editor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: retinol (percentage not disclosed), collagen, hyaluronic acid, panthenol
- Who it's for: all skin types
- Fragrance-free: yes
We Have Liftoff: Medicube Booster Pro
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Medicube
Booster Pro
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
Allure editor in chief Jessica Cruel using the Medicube Booster Pro
Jessica Cruel
Why it's worth it: There aren’t many microcurrent devices we consistently reach for—tools are often an investment, after all—so when one makes the cut, it’s usually doing something right. Medicube Age-R Booster Pro stands out for keeping things refreshingly simple: no attachments, no conductive gel, just the device and your favorite serum. It packs four modes into one sleek tool, including Booster Mode (electroporation) to enhance skin care absorption, MC Mode (microcurrent) to target fine lines, Derma Shot Mode (EMS) to firm and contour, and Air Shot Mode to improve pore elasticity. Switching between modes is as easy as pressing a button, but testers say MC Mode is the real standout for its jaw-snatching results.
Tester feedback from editor in chief Jessica Cruel
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"I must say: This is the most powerful device I have ever used. Setting three out of five had my muscles twitching (in a good way). I also like that it has a screen that tracks the time, so I don't have to keep track of beeps. I find the user experience is better than many microcurrent devices I've used in the past.” —Jessica Cruel, editor in chief
Jessica has normal skin and has been using the Medicube Age-R Booster Pro once a month for six months.
Product highlights
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- Four modes (Booster Mode: Electroporation, MC Mode: Microcurrent, Derma Shot Mode, and Air Shot Mode: Electric Needles)
- Five intensity levels each
- Medicube AGE-R App compatibility
- USB-C charging cable
How the brand tested this product's efficacy
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Medicube conducted clinical studies for all four modes used in combination with skin-care products and lists these statistics on its Singapore site:
- Forehead volume: improved by 35.9% after 2 weeks of use
- Smile lines: improved by 24.2% after 2 weeks of use
- Between the brows(11s): Improved by 16.1% after 2 weeks of use
- Crow's feet: improved by 12.6% after 2 weeks of use
- Neck lines: improved by 11.8% after 2 weeks of use
- Skin density: improved by 5.46% after 2 weeks of use
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I trust buying Korean skin-care products online?
Yes, as long as you’re thoughtful about where you’re buying from. Korean skin-care products are widely available online, including on Amazon, but it’s important to do a bit of due diligence on the seller. Listings, pricing, and third-party vendors can change frequently, so it’s best to purchase items sold directly by the brand or by Amazon itself. (Note: Sometimes the seller appears under a parent company name—for example, I’m From products are sold by Wishtrend.) You can also shop through trusted, stateside K-beauty retailers like Soko Glam, which carefully curates its selection, or Asia-based sites such as YesStyle and Olive Young—though orders from overseas may take a bit longer to arrive.
Meet the experts
- Claire Chang, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at UnionDerm based in New York City
- Charlotte Cho, esthetician and cofounder of Soko Glam based in New York City
- Hee Jin Koh, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Clifton, New Jersey
How we test and review products
When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that's included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.
For our list of our readers' favorite K-beauty products, we looked at Amazon order data to identify the K-beauty products that our readers shop (through our affiliate links) the most. As you can see, based on our quotes and video demos, we have tested and recommended all of these fan-favorite products ourselves over the past year. For that process, we considered each product's performance across five primary categories: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, fragrance, texture, and product wear. Every product was determined to have excelled in each category by our editorial team, which is composed of in-house writers and editors as well as contributors, along with special consideration from board-certified dermatologists, estheticians, and brand founders. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.
Our staff and testers
A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors—in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon—is essential to reaching that goal.
After all, can we really say a skin-care product is the "best" for people over 50 if the only testers we've solicited opinions from folks who have yet to hit 30? Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if it's never been tested on curls? We're proud that our staff spans a wide range of ages, skin tones, hair textures, genders, and backgrounds, which means that we are able to fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet.
About Me
Chesung Subba
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Hello, I'm Chesung Subba, a passionate writer who loves sharing ideas, stories, and experiences to inspire, inform, and connect with readers through meaningful content.
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