Okay, okay we get it – you must be thinking, “another Korean skincare trend?” Well, we, too, are pretty overwhelmed by the number of quirky skincare habits the South Koreans can come up with. And if you have been keeping up with this space (and you ought to), then you probably have already seen our stories on the glass and honey skin craze, as well as the seven-step toner method (yes, we really mean it literally). But if you’ve not read up on those, here’s a quick rundown.
Just like how a piece of glass is smooth, reflective and clear, glass skin refers to a hydrated, translucent and luminous complexion with just the right amount of sheen. Honey skin, on the other hand, refers to a complexion that’s plump, dewy and healthy-looking. Lastly, the seven-step toner is pretty literal – applying a hydrating toner seven times to maximise skin hydration and give your complexion an intense glow. While these K-beauty trends are quite similar, each is unique on its own but essentially, achieving good, clear skin is the ultimate goal for all Koreans (and anyone who’s into beauty, really).
But now, there are two new trends you need to get on your radar. First up, the toner wash method.
So we all know how double cleansing works – you apply an oil-based cleanser followed by a water-based one. And now (instead of just stopping there), it’s time to do the toner wash method. Considered this as the third step of cleansing and ideal for those who have a dry complexion. How it works: get a bowl full of water and mix in your favourite hydrating toner (the recommended ratio is one part toner and nine parts water). Proceed to splash the concoction all over your skin, and that’s it. It reportedly helps skin to better absorb nutrients and gives it a boost of hydration while even clearing up acne. So if you thought applying a toner seven times on your skin was extra, this really takes the cake. Below are the hydrating toners we feel suits this method best.
https://www.femalemag.com.sg/beauty/quirky-korean-skincare-habits/
Toner - Korean Skincare Trends
#1: Su:m37 Water-full Hydrating Glow Toner, $80
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While many brightening products come with hydrating benefits, this toner gives equal importance to both. It contains a trio of ingredients known as Aqua Light, which consists of precious truffle-derived yeast extract and Western medicinal herbs to suppress melanin production to brighten and fight pigmentation and Aqua Ferm, which is said to activate the moisture proteins found in cells. Poria Light boosts skin’s radiance and firms it up so it is better able to reflect light for a more luminous complexion. It also leaves a cooling sensation and boosts clarity.
#2: Dior Hydra Life 2-in-1 Sorbet Water, $83
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The entire Hydra Life range uses 83 per cent of natural ingredients and new floral active ingredients to gently yet effectively moisturise and rebalance the skin. This also contains mineral powders to instantly minimise enlarged pores and treat spots while fermented sugar, a powerful prebiotic, stabilises skin. Lastly, jasmine water offers exceptional moisturising benefits.
#3: Dr. Jart+ Water Fuse Hydro Toner, $45, Sephora
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This soothing toner is formulated with AHA to sloth away dead skin cells. A natural moisture barrier complex protects dry skin while oligo-hyaluronic acid absorbs quickly to replenish skin’s moisture levels.
#4: Fresh Rose Deep Hydration Facial Toner, $69
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With real rose petals found in the bottle, this hydrates, softens and refines the appearance of pores for a healthy-looking complexion. The gentle formula also works well on those with sensitive skin.
#5: Mamonde Rose Water Toner, $38
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Known as one of the most popular product from the brand, this hardworker is made with 90.89 per cent Bulgarian damask rose water, which absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving a sticky residue behind.
#6: Etude House Soon Jung 5.5 Relief Toner, $28.90
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The brand’s Soon Jung line was made specifically for women with sensitive skin. This gentle toner is enriched with 90 per cent plant derivative ingredients and panthenoside to strengthen skin protein, balance pH levels and deliver optimum moisture.
#7: Laneige Fresh Calming Toner, $40
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This contains antioxidant-rich natural litchi extract and deep-sea water, which helps to soothe, moisturise and restore skin’s natural balance. It’s fast-absorbing formula makes it perfect for those with oily and combination skin.
Next up, cloudless skin (someone seriously needs to give the Koreans an award for the many ways they can describe good skin). Unlike glass and honey skin, which focuses on achieving a dewy, plump complexion, this new craze is all about getting clear and healthy skin. It’s not just about using a single product or method, it’s an entire practice to achieve brighter, acne-free skin. Not only that, keeping a good diet and balanced lifestyle is also key as when you’re stressed and constantly bogged down with work and other responsibilities, it will show on your skin. So if you’ve got dark spots, dull, acne-prone skin and redness, here are some of the best products to help treat them.
https://www.femalemag.com.sg/beauty/quirky-korean-skincare-habits/
Cloud - Korean Skincare Trend
#1: Chanel Le Blanc Huile Healthy Light Creator Oil, $177
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Infused with 98 per cent naturally-derived ingredients, this is the brand’s first ever brightening facial oil. It is infused with ume flower extract, which reportedly helps to repair damage and promote skin’s health, strength and boosts radiance. It is also able to balance skin, illuminate dullness and improve moisture levels.
#2: CNP Laboratory Vita-B Energy Ampuole, $48.90
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To be used after a toner, this is formulated with glutathione and vitamin B3 to reinforce skin’s brightening abilities. The former inhibits oxidative cellular damage and melanin production while the latter disrupts the melanogenesis process.
#3: 111Skin Ground Control Anti Blemish Tonic, $98
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This is made with the NAC Y² formula, as well as skin brightening and tightening actives, to stimulate cell regeneration and give you a more youthful, radiant complexion. It also boosts collagen production and provides defense against environmental damage to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
#4: Kiehl's Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution, $92
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The star ingredient in this lightweight, fast-acting serum? The brand’s Activated C, a vitamin C extract that helps diminish dark spots and even out skin tone. It also limits excessive melanin more effectively and breaks up existing melanin clusters, while treating pigment present in skin.It also contains a potent blend of white birch and antioxidant-rich peony extracts. The former is known to hydrate and nourish skin, as well as prevent discolouration while the latter fights free radical damage and prevents the formation of dark spots.
#5: Sulwhasoo Snowise Brightening Exfoliating Gel, $68
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This in-shower wash-off mask is made with finely grounded white ginseng (both its extracts and powder) to suppress melanin production, hydrate and increases the formation of collagen to plump, moisturise and brighten the overall complexion.
#6: Caudalie Vinoperfect Radiance Serum, $93, Sephora
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Formulated with the brand’s patented active ingredient derived from
grape vine-sap, Viniferine, which is said to be 62 times more effective than vitamin C, this serum helps to lighten acne scars, pigmentation and evens out skin tone.
#7: Clinique Anti-Blemish All Over Clearing Treatment, $43
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A lightweight, medicated formula that helps treat existing acne and prevent future breakouts, while also creating a barrier against acne-causing agents.
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