Korean skin care has been trending for some time. We all know about cleansers, toners, masks and moisturizers, but there’s also products like serums, ampoules and emulsions. K-beauty advocates swear by their 10-step skin care routines, but do we have to use all these products to achieve that oh-so-perfect glass skin?
The good news is, you don’t. According to Soko Glam, there may be 10 steps, but you can freely choose the specific ones that work best for you. Not everyone has the same type of skin nor do all of us suffer from the same problems. That’s why products like serums, ampoules and emulsions are created for specific purposes and all help your skin be the best it can be.
Serums and ampoules are concentrated versions of an essence, with ampoules being more highly concentrated. They are packed with powerful ingredients that encourage skin turnover and reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Emulsions, on the other hand, are basically moisturizers but with a twist. These are usually watery in consistency so they are very lightweight and perfect for those with oily or combination skin. But even dry skin will benefit from emulsions; since they spread thinly, it gives you that extra hydration as you layer your favorite face cream on top.
The bottom line? You don’t have to hoard every K-beauty product you see. Choose the best ones that you know will work for your skin. If you’re still confused, check out our cheat sheet to help you take the guesswork out of your skin care routine.
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Serums, Ampoules, Emulsions: The Cheat Sheet to Figure Out What You Need
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For Anti-Aging: Lancôme
Advanced Génifique Youth Activating Serum, $178 at Lancôme
Most serums target skin issues caused by aging. This anti-aging serum promises to boost your anti-aging skin care routine to reveal more youthful skin in just a week. Its main ingredient is bifidus extract, which helps preserve moisture in skin.
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For Dehydrated Skin: Benton
Cacao Moist and Mild Serum, $17 at Soko Glam
Women with dehydrated skin tend to have sensitive skin as well so choosing products that won’t cause redness or irritation can be difficult. This serum is formulated with ingredients that soothe inflammation and redness, such as allantoin and madecassoside. It also has 80 percent high cacao extract, which gives your skin much-needed hydration.
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For Hyperpigmentation: Skinfood
Yuja Water C Whitening Ampoule in Serum, $39 at Ulta Beauty
This ampoule works hard to lighten hyperpigmentation as well as melasma and dark spots. It is formulated with 30 percent yuja extract oil, a fruit from Korea that’s high in vitamin C. Its main ingredient is niacinamide, which helps fade fine lines and tighten skin.
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For Dull and Uneven Skin: Estée Lauder
Advanced Night Repair Intensive Recovery Ampoules, $112 at Sephora
Ampoules are highly concentrated so they are perfect when your skin becomes overly stressed or damaged from various environmental factors. This ampoule comes in capsules that you can use at night to repair your skin while you sleep. Its powerful, concentrated oil is made with ChronoluxAI technology.
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For Sensitive Skin: Etude House
SoonJung 10 Free Moist Emulsion, $15.60 at Etude House
Those with sensitive skin have different triggers that cause skin irritation. With this emulsion, there is no need to worry because it has no fragrances, parabens or artificial colors. It's made with natural ingredients, including panthenol, squalene and madecassoside. All these components work together to keep your skin hydrated.
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For Oily Skin: Cosrx
Natural BHA Skin Returning Emulsion, $19 at Soko Glam
When you have oily skin, you tend to avoid moisturizers with heavy creams that feel greasy and can possibly clog pores. This emulsion is lightweight enough to be absorbed by your skin quickly and gives the hydration you need. BHAs also help prevent overproduction of sebum and accumulation of dead skin cells.
