5 Products to Introduce You to the K-Beauty World

With sheet masks and cushion foundation on the rise, K-beauty has become increasingly mainstream over the years. Brands like GlowRecipe and Belif adorn Sephora shelves across the globe, and with people boasting results like glass skin, why wouldn’t they? Even A-listers like Lady Gaga, Emma Stone, and Lucy Hale have mentioned they’re fans!

Navigating a whole new (and foreign!) beauty market can seem daunting at first. Which brands are recommended by experts? Which are the best bang for your buck? What if you don’t speak Korean? Before you panic too much, here are a few superstar products to get you started!

LANEIGE LIP SLEEPING MASK

One of the most nourishing lip products on the market, the Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask comes in a variety of fun flavors like vanilla, grapefruit, apple lime, and sweet candy. Although it’s labeled as a “sleeping mask”, it can be used for anything from a typical lip balm to a hydrating base under your favorite red lip!

Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask, $20; YesStyle.com

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MISSHA SUN MILK SPF50+/PA+++

Everyone knows that SPF is an essential step in any skincare routine, and the Missha All Around Safe Block Essence Sun Milk (a mouthful, I know) is a bestseller in the K-Beauty community. A non-greasy, lightweight sunscreen with UVA and UVB protection and no white-cast — what else could we possibly ask for?

Missha Safe Block Sun Milk, $26; YesStyle.com

INNISFREE JEJU LAVA SEAWATER EYE SERUM

You really can’t go wrong with any Innisfree product, but the Jeju Lava Seawater line is particularly popular. The metal dispenser has an additional cooling effect that minimizes swelling and bloating. Featured in Tiffany Young’s Vogue makeup routine video, this serum boosts nutrients and hydration in your under-eye area. Layer it under concealer for an even more seamless look!

Innisfree Jeju Lava Seawater Eye Serum, $33; Innisfree.com

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COSRX ACNE PIMPLE MASTER PATCH

These patches are easy to apply and affordable as hell to boot. Everybody has breakouts from time to time, and these miraculous patches are the perfect weapon against pesky pimples. Stick them on any pimple and the patch will draw out all the disgusting gunk within hours. Bonus: they’re basically invisible, so you can even wear them out!

Acne Pimple Master Patch, $6; SOKOGlam.com

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MISSHA TIME REVOLUTION CLEAR TONER

Another best-seller, the Missha Time Revolution Clear Toner is a great way to prime your skin for your skincare routine. It sloughs off dead skin cells, debris, and any impurities your cleanser leaves behind to prep your skin to better absorb moisturizer and other treatments. Think of it as a palette cleanser — but for your face!

Missha Time Revolution Clear Toner, $28; SOKOGlam.com