What exactly makes this brand so unique? Each product states the exact amount of key ingredient used (it could be 7.98% of six years old red ginseng extract) and even comes with the origin of the ingredient (the ginseng’s from Geum M, South Korea) to ensure transparency between consumers and the brand. Plus, it is cruelty-free.

Our current skincare obsession? Anything made with mugwort – and the brand has developed a Mugwort Essence that we are in love with. Simply because the superior key ingredient (read: mugwort) aids in soothing skin irritation; contains antibacterial properties to fight off the nasties on our skin; is packed with a ton of antioxidants; and feels weightless on the skin – what’s not to like?

South Korea’s cosmetic giant Amorepacific has brought in a slew of brands such as Laneige, Hera and Sulwhasoo onto our shores. One that has yet to make its debut is Iope. The brand is known for its functional products that are based on plant science to restore and heal complexions. And if you are one to always reach out for cushion compacts, this is the brand to thank as it was one of — if not the — first brands that initiated it.

If you are new to the brand, one product we highly recommend is its Air Cushion. The hydrating formula is made with Air Prism Water and 3D prism pearls to impart a dewy, luminous fresh-faced glow. A Colouring Technology is also infused to give a seamless, full coverage finish. The surface of the cushion also features an embossed 3D sponge for even application of the product.

The artsy, futuristic and ultra modern South Korean eyewear brand that is Gentle Monster needs little to no introduction. But here’s what many may not have known: it’s got a skincare brand as well. Labelled as Tamburins, the cosmetic extension adopts the same aesthetic vision as its fashion counterpart (yes, its brick-and-mortar store in Garosugil boasts extraterrestrial art figurines and IG-worthy spaces) and features an array of hand creams, serums and fragrances. And of course, what’s a Gentle Monster skincare brand without sophisticated, artistic and tasteful packaging?

The brand’s Nude H & Cream is a luxurious scented hand cream that come in four different iterations, with #000 being its signature scent. It is formulated with a blend of natural essential oils such as bergamot, pettigli and sandalwood to first give a burst of fresh, citrus scent before settling into a woody note. Each cream is also saturated with shea butter, macadamia seed oil and sandalwood oil to treat dry, rough skin.

Its R&D team is continuously researching to create skin-loving formulas for the modern day woman. The new formulations are said to be gentle on the skin, while preventing and protecting complexions from harmful external aggressors prevalent in any urban jungle. What else we love about the brand? It’s simple, chic and ultra minimalistic packaging that can double up as a prop for that Instagram shot.

And if you are looking for a serum to improve skin elasticity, plump up lines and wrinkles, and replenish moisture deep within the skin, the brand’s Hypoderma SP1-2GF Serum is one to note. Polypeptides developed to speed up wound recovery known as EGF and FGF work together to stimulate skin growth at a cellular level and promote collagen and elastin formation. Additionally, these ingredients also aid in protecting skin against external aggressors, even out skin tone and improve skin texture over time.