Tester Feedback:
"This silky, milky formula absorbs at lightning speed and leaves my skin cashmere-soft," attests former Allure editor Devon Abelman. "I love a pump for body-care products and appreciate that Aestura has one for quick, mess-free application."
Key Ingredients: triple lipid capsule (ceramide, fatty acid, and cholesterol) | Who it’s for: everyone | Fragrance-free? yes
Best Lip Balm/Mask:
Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask
Shopping market editor Angela Trakoshis applying Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask
Why it’s worth it: Laneige’s Lip Sleeping Mask is an all-time Allure editor-favorite—and it took home a 2024 Readers’ Choice Award, proving it’s a go-to among readers, too. This buttery formula softens and plumps lips overnight thanks to a moisture-boosting blend of coconut oil, murumuru seed butter, and shea butter. (Laneige also offers a lighter daytime balm, but you can also use this mask during the day for a heavier-duty option.) Plus, vitamin C makes an appearance to provide lasting protection against free radicals and environmental aggressors.
Tester feedback: “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,” says shopping editor Angela Trakoshis.
Key Ingredients: coconut oil, murumuru seed butter, shea butter, vitamin C | **Who it’s for:** everyone | **Fragrance-free?** no
Best Chemical Sunscreen:
Thank You Farmer Sun Project Moisture Sun Cream SPF 40
Why it’s worth it: Not-so-hot take: Korean sunscreens are undoubtedly more elite than US sunscreens. (You can blame the FDA for being stuck in the ‘90s when it comes to approving sunscreen filters, okay?) Thank You Farmer’s Sun Project Water Sun Cream feels like a lightweight lotion and is infused with similar ingredients, like moisturizing glycerin, vitamin E, and niacinamide.
Tester feedback: “It’s supremely hydrating—so much so that I actually skip my daytime moisturizer, since I have combo skin—without feeling heavy or greasy and lends my complexion a delightful but not over-the-top glow,” Han raves. “This lightweight cream truly melts right in without the slightest bit of cast.”
Key Ingredients: homosalate (9%), octinoxate (6.8%), octisalate (4.5%), octocrylene (4%), and vitamins B5, B3, E, and K (panthenol, niacinamide, tocopherol, and menadione) | **Who it’s for:** people who prefer chemical sunscreen | **Fragrance-free?** yes
Best Mineral Sunscreen:
Etude Sunprise Mild Airy Finish Sun Milk SPF 50+
Why it’s worth it: If “nongreasy” is at the top of your list of sunscreen requirements, might we suggest Etude House’s Sunprise Sun Milk. This zinc oxide-powered mineral formula has an airy finish that isn’t overly glowy or matte—it’s the Goldilocks of Korean sunscreens, you might say. As long as you’re not sensitive to fragrance, this formula treats all skin types equally, thanks to a soothing and hydrating lineup of acai berry, aloe vera, and hyaluronic acid.
Conclusion:
These top-rated products from Korean skincare brands have gained the trust and approval of beauty enthusiasts and experts alike. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious lip mask, a chemical sunscreen for everyday use, or a mineral sunscreen for a non-greasy finish, these products have got you covered.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: What is the best Korean skincare brand?
A: Korean skincare brands like Laneige, Thank You Farmer, and Etude House have gained popularity worldwide for their innovative products and natural ingredients.
Q: What is the difference between chemical and mineral sunscreen?
A: Chemical sunscreens use chemicals to absorb UV rays, while mineral sunscreens use physical barriers like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to deflect UV rays.
Q: How often should I use a lip mask?
A: You can use a lip mask 1-2 times a week, depending on your lip type and condition.