As a veteran beauty editor, I’ve tested hundreds of contenders for the best Korean skin care products. I first got into K-beauty when it gained popularity Stateside in 2011, adding all the snail mucin creams, Korean sunscreens, moisturizers, and toners I could find. Since then, the options have only gotten better and more numerous. Last year, I spent three months in Seoul researching and testing my way through all the latest launches. To put together the best K-beauty routine for any skin type, I talked to local dermatologists, toured skin care labs, and met with product developers and brand founders. While I found enough gems to fill two checked suitcases, consider this the condensed version of that list, featuring only the best of the best.
Below, you’ll find plenty of examples, like a hydrating sunscreen that doubles as tint, a water-activated cleanser you can also use as a face mask and toner pads that work like brightening mini masks. And so you can get a better idea of how they feel and who they work best for, they’re backed by real reviews from dermatologists, fellow K-beauty experts, and Glamour editors.
BLACK FRIDAY UPDATE: Many of our favorite Korean skin care products are discounted for Black Friday, so now’s the time to stock up. Standouts include the The Tiktok viral Medicube Collagen Night Wrapping Mask and Anua Heartleaf Quercetinol Deep Pore Cleansing Foam which we love for oily and acne-prone skin types and is marked down 19%—so you can grab it for just $11!
The best Korean skin care products, at a glance
Ma:nyo Pure Cleansing Oil Deep Clean
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Dr. Althea Pore Refreshing Grinding Cleansing Balm
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CosRx AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner
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Biodance Vita Niacinamide Gel Toner Pads
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Since my introduction to K-beauty brands in 2016, I’ve gravitated toward their innovative delivery systems and gentle efficacy. Over the years, I’ve tested hundreds of the most popular launches, including snail mucin creams, cleansing oils, lip tints, and cushion foundations. I even spent three months in Seoul last year researching the latest emerging trends and viral Korean skin care launches. During that time, I talked to cosmetic chemists and brand founders about the latest breakout launches and K-beauty’s cult classics. The most promising K-beauty products let you do more with less. “In 2025, we’re seeing a shift toward intentional skin care—fewer steps, but more effective, multifunctional formulas,” says Charlotte Cho, a licensed esthetician based in New York City and cofounder of Then I Met You and Soko Glam.
When reviewing each product, I make note of its ingredient list to determine which skin types it’s best for, whether it’s fragrance free, and its key benefits. I also consult with K-beauty experts and dermatologists specializing in Korean skin care to curate each list and help Glamour readers make the most informed decision.
Best Cleanser: Anua Heartleaf Quercetinol Deep Pore Cleansing Foam
Original video from Alanna Martine Kilkeary testing Anua Heartleaf Quercetinol Deep Pore Cleansing Foam
Go in with this deep-cleansing foam after your oil or balm cleanser for the ultimate double-cleanse. It’s formulated with a blend of soothing ingredients and gentle exfoliants to help refine skin texture and take down redness. “Salicylic acid, which is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA), gently exfoliates your pores and regulates sebum production,” says Ethan Wonuk Hwang, MD, a cosmetic physician at Cheongdam LeBelle Dermatologic Clinic in Seoul. This formula also contains antioxidant-rich heartleaf extract. “It’s a powerful anti-inflammatory that soothes irritation,” says Dr. Hwang. Together, they target pores and balance sebum without stripping your skin barrier. “It’s excellent for oily or congested skin types that want clear skin without dryness,” he says. “It clears pores without compromising hydration or barrier integrity, which is key for achieving glass skin.”
Best Cleansing Oil: Ma:nyo Pure Cleansing Oil Deep Clean
Original video from Sarah Y. Wu testing Manyo Pure Cleansing Oil Deep Clean
Ma:nyo’s Pure Cleansing Oil is a cult classic in South Korea, where it’s known as the #1 cleansing oil at Olive Young. The Ma:nyo Pure Cleansing Oil Deep Clean edition, inspired by the success of the original, is arguably even better. It’s formulated with a mix of plant oils including grape seed, lavender, and sunflower seed to rinse off waterproof makeup without feeling heavy or greasy on your face. Dermatologists love the skin-friendly ingredients and comfortable texture. “It’s formulated with noncomedogenic oils to hydrate the skin without clogging the pores,” explains Y. Claire Chang, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at UnionDerm in New York City. “It feels incredibly lightweight and silky on my skin,” she says of the texture. “It spreads and rinses off easily too, breaking down my makeup and sunscreen without feeling too heavy. When rinsed off, it leaves my skin feeling more hydrated.”
Ever since I first tried it, this cleansing oil lives permanently in my shower. The texture is lightweight, watery, and easy to work with. Most importantly, it gets even my most stubborn waterproof mascaras off without stinging my eyes.
Best Cleansing Balm: Dr. Althea Pore Refreshing Grinding Cleansing Balm
Original video from Sarah Y. Wu testing Dr. Althea Pore Refreshing Grinding Cleansing Balm
Think of cleansing balms as cleansing oils in solid, travel-friendly form. I’m obsessed with Dr. Althea’s original cleansing balm, which features a smart grinding dispenser that pushes out thin, pasta-like ribbons of formula. Dr. Althea’s Pore Refreshing Grinding Cleansing Balm keeps the same easy-to-use packaging, but swaps out the classic white balm for a baby-blue edition. Its signature shade comes from guaiazulene, an ingredient with antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. Paired with green tea extract, it helps balance sebum levels and keep skin clear and soothed. Just like the original, it melts off every trace of waterproof makeup, heavy foundation, and sunscreen—no scrubbing needed.
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