11 Best Expert-Approved Korean Moisturizers For Acne-Prone Skin – 2024
Korean moisturizers keep acne-prone skin nourished, hydrated, and blemish-free.
Dr. Anna Chacon is a board-certified dermatologist specializing in medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology with over 9 years of experience. She enjoys practicing all aspects of dermatology and is licensed to practice in 49 states. She is particularly interested in rural outreach and helping others in underserved areas obtain access to much-needed medical care.
Read full bio of Dr. Anna H. Chacon
Experience: 3 yearsKirtana has a postgraduate degree in mass communication and journalism from St. Joseph’s College, Bengaluru, and 3 years of professional experience. She developed a deep passion for writing after reading the brilliant works of Enid Blyton and Roald Dahl and has chosen a career that is driven by creativity.
Read full bio of Kirtana Divakar
Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
Experience: 3 yearsSwathi has a postgraduate degree in English literature from The English And Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and over three years of experience in writing on beauty, health, and lifestyle. She also has a diploma in English journalism from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication, Kottayam, and is a certified skincare coach.
Read full bio of Swathi E
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Dealing with oily or acne-prone skin can be tricky because your skin often has zits or severe breakouts that occur due to acne-causing bacteria. There is a common misconception that those with acne-prone skin should avoid moisturizers. However, while regular moisturizers may not give you promising results, the best Korean moisturizer for acne-prone skin can do the trick. If you are into religious skin care, then you must be already aware that K-beauty products have been sweeping the skin care industry off its feet. Korean moisturizers for acne-prone skin are easily accessible and have natural and potent skin-friendly formulas. You can use these effective moisturizers even in humid weather. They have a lightweight texture, offer deep hydration, and help keep your skin oil-free. What’s more? You don’t have to worry about your pores getting clogged.
These Korean moisturizers are also packed with natural, organic, non-comedogenic, and anti-inflammatory ingredients that keep all your acne-prone skin concerns at bay. As there are many options available on the market right now, picking one that addresses your concerns perfectly might be overwhelming and challenging. But, fret not! I consulted Dr. Anna H. Chacon, MD, FAAD, and a dermatologist, and curated a list of the 11 best Korean moisturizers for acne-prone skin that will prevent breakouts from reoccurring and give you blemish-free skin in no time. Keep reading to explore the list of my top picks!
In This Article
11 Best Korean Moisturizers For Acne-Prone Skin – 2024
Seoul Ceauticals Multi-Function All-In-One Anti-Aging Snail Repair Cream
Now before you jump to any conclusions about the term “snail repair”, you must know that snail mucin extract is a dermatologist-recommended, potent ingredient that helps repair acne scars. This effective moisturizer is unique because it contains 97.5% snail mucin compared to other Korean moisturizers, which helps boost skin with long-lasting hydration while visibly reducing fine lines/wrinkles. The formula contains shea butter, vitamin E, and jojoba oil, which lightens blemishes, leaves a dewy, healthy glow, and evens your complexion. This Korean product for oily, acne-prone skin offers visible results within the first few days of use and is an excellent addition to your skin care routine because it clears clogged pores and destroys any acne-causing bacteria. It, therefore, dries out any active acne and prevents new ones from springing up. However, conduct a patch test before applying to check if you are allergic to snail mucin. To know more about the nuances of the Seoul Ceauticals Multi-Function All-In-One Anti-Aging Snail Repair Cream, have a look at this video to know about a reviewer’s experience.
Pros- Non-comedogenic
- Anti-microbial
- Hydrating
- Even skin tone
- Anti-aging benefits
- Naturally derived ingredients
Cons
- It may not be suitable for people allergic to snail mucin
Pro Tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received 2,632 reviews on Amazon and is a popular choice among shoppers.
COSRX Advanced Snail 92 All In One Cream
Acne-prone skin can be sensitive and vulnerable to some nasty reactions, so you must choose a gentle product on your skin and provide the desired results. This clinically-tested, hypoallergenic daily moisturizer is ultra-hydrating, and it keeps zits at bay. The lightweight formula contains 92% snail mucin and hyaluronic acid, which helps plump and soothe the skin. The consistency is lightweight and gel-like; this makes it great for dehydrated skin that is inflamed after breakouts. This is a great gel moisturizer for acne-prone skin and skin regeneration that doesn’t get frequent breakouts and has a rough texture. Incorporate this moisturizing cream into your 10-step skincare routine for 2 to 3 weeks, and you will start seeing excellent results in the form of smooth, glowing skin. If you are still unsure about the COSRX Advanced Snail 92 All In One Cream, check out this YouTube video for further information about a reviewer’s experience.
Pros- Ultra-hydrating
- Cruelty-free
- Lightweight
- Smooths skin texture
- Hypoallergenic
- Enhances skin’s natural glow
Cons
- It may not be suitable for use in dry climate regions
Quick TipWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has more than 11,639 reviews and is a top choice all around the world.
Etude House Soon Jung 2x Barrier Intensive Cream
A common myth is that acne-prone skin doesn’t require moisture because it will just trigger your acne. Well, we are here to bust that myth because your acne-prone skin needs a boost of hydration more than ever. This acne combating formula includes shea butter and a complex oil formula that leaves your skin feeling supple and strengthens its protein barrier. The fragrance-free moisturizer with clinically proven results is free from any harmful chemicals, minerals, and animal materials, making it safe to use and won’t trigger any nasty reactions. This moisturizer for acne-prone skin provides relief from said side effects and doesn’t clog your pores. You can watch a reviewer’s experience in this video for more information about the Etude House Soon Jung 2x Barrier Intensive Cream.
Pros- Lightweight
- Hypoallergenic
- Fragrance-free
- Chemical-free
- Natural ingredients
- Non-comedogenic
- Doesn’t leave any greasy residue
Cons
- Some may find the consistency thick
Seoul Ceauticals Multi-Function All-In-One Anti-Aging Snail Repair Cream | COSRX Advanced Snail 92 All In One Cream | Etude House Soon Jung 2x Barrier Intensive Cream | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 2.5 x 2.5 x 2 inches | 1.97 x 3.15 x 1.97 inches | - |
| Weight | 2 Ounces | 6.35 Ounces | - |
| Dimensions | - | - | 6.22 x 4.33 x 1.42 inches |
| Weight | - | - | 11.36 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 2,632 | 11,639 | 2,850 |
| Price | $20 | $14.89 | $17.0 |
IUNIK Centella Calming Gel Cream
This calming Korean moisturizer for sensitive acne-prone skin is perfect for all day and night long moisturization. It contains natural ingredients like Centella Asiatica leaf water, tea tree extract, adenosine, and niacinamide that eliminate acne-causing bacteria and help fade acne scars. The facial lotion is light and soothing, so it sits comfortably on your skin without feeling sticky or greasy. The formula also has 6 sprout extracts like pak choi, broccoli, sprout wheat, clover, white radish, and cabbage, which evens your skin tone and strengthens the skin barrier. Skincare influencers and professionals rave about this Korean night moisturizer for acne-prone skin because of the amazing results, especially if you want to zap a zit overnight. It is also loved because the product is not tested on animals.
Melanie, a blogger, says, “This product has a light, watery texture that smoothes into the skin beautifully. It is one of those products that vibes with my skin in the best way possible. The cooling effect of this is so calming for my skin, and it zaps inflammation dramatically. I honestly can’t sing its praises enough (i).”
Pros- Lightweight
- Gel-like consistency
- Soothing
- Natural ingredients
- Suitable for overly sensitive skin
Cons
- May take some time to absorb into your skin
Pro TipBelief Believe In Truth The True Cream – Moisturizing Bomb
Belief happens to be one of the most popular Korean skincare brands globally, and with good reason. The clinically-tested formula is ultra-comfortable on the skin, and it’s designed to provide intense hydration that leaves your skin feeling smooth, soft, and deeply moisturized. The main ingredient in this moisturizer is comfrey leaf; it’s a powerful hydrating ingredient that enhances the skin’s water levels and doesn’t leave your skin feeling greasy at all. No matter what the season, you can make this moisturizing cream a part of your daily skincare routine for visible results. The cream gets absorbed pretty quickly, and it has a mild, refreshing scent that doesn’t overwhelm you.
A blogger uses this moisturizer for six months and says, “As someone with dry skin who is used to wearing thick moisturizers, I really enjoyed this consistency. This truly feels lightweight on the skin, which is so nice for the summer – it doesn’t feel heavy in the hot weather. In the fall and winter, the lightweight texture is heavy enough to keep my skin hydrated. It’s rare that a cream works well for both summer and winter, but this one does. Another thing I love about it is that it sits well under makeup without moving around or pilling (ii).”
Pros- Lightweight
- Refreshing fragrance
- Suitable for all seasons
- Non-greasy
- Quick absorbing
- Heals skin irritations
- Dermatologically tested
Cons
- May be mild on combination acne-prone skin types
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has gained over 253 positive reviews on Amazon, making it an all-time best-seller.
APIEU Madecassoside Moisture Gel Cream
As mentioned before, the Centella Asiatica leaf is quite beneficial to acne-prone skin as it destroys bacteria and soothes inflammation/redness. This repair cream contains madecassoside, a major natural compound found in Centella Asiatica. It works wonders on dry acne-prone skin. Suppose you are looking for a moisturizer that not only calms redness and repairs skin damage, but also enhances your skin’s natural glow. In that case, this is the product for you. The formula also features sodium hyaluronate, allantoin, and panthenol, which help strengthen the skin’s protective barrier and fade dark spots. We recommend using this cream once you have washed and toned your face; finish your routine by applying it all over your face and neck for visible results. You can follow it up with sunscreen during the day.
Pros- Fades dark spots
- Suitable for dry and sensitive skin
- Strengthens the skin’s barrier
- Enhances skin’s glow
- Eliminates acne-causing bacteria
- Soothes inflammation/redness
- No greasy residue
Cons
- The formula may not be lightweight
Mizon Multifunctional Formula Snail Repair Intensive BB Cream
This product not only moisturizes your skin but also gives you the benefit of a makeup base. The smooth blending formula contains 35% snail mucin extract, which offers anti-aging benefits, helps hydrate the skin, and provides healthy coverage all over your skin. The finish is dewy and doesn’t look cakey or dry. It is paraben and fragrance-free, making it safe for all skin types. With this BB cream, you can build on the coverage and don’t have to worry about any cracks on fine lines, as it settles on the acne-prone skin comfortably for most of the day. The texture is quite soft and lightweight so that you can blend it easily with your fingers. Lastly, this BB cream does an excellent job at color correcting blemished skin and protecting you from UV rays, therefore making it an excellent choice for people who spend most of their day outdoors.
Pros- Color correcting
- Smooth blending
- Lightweight texture
- Hydrating
- Buildable
- Even coverage
- Natural finish
Cons
- The shade range may not be diverse
Jumiso Have A Good Cream Hydrating & Soothing Cream
This cream is packed with the goodness of Centella Asiatica, which prevents acne and helps improve hyperpigmentation, fade blemishes, heal acne scars, and soothe any redness. The cream is super soft and easy to apply, leaving your skin hydrated and rich with long-lasting moisture. The formula is supported by clinical data and also contains snail slime and madecassic acid, which calm stressed skin and enhance your glow. This cream is the perfect product for the essential moisture dose during warm summer months, as it does not clog your pores, gets absorbed quickly, offers skin-soothing benefits, and won’t break you out. In addition, it is super light and can be layered with your favorite sunscreen without making you feel sticky or uncomfortable. Remember to conduct a patch test to check for allergy to snail mucin.
Pros- Non-comedogenic
- Quick absorbing
- Hydrating
- Reduces blemishes
- Improves hyperpigmentation
Cons
- It may not be suitable to use during the winter season
Dew Kitten Chill Kitten 24-hr Moisturizing Cactus Oil-Free Cream
Upgrade your summer skincare with this cooling moisturizer. The clinically-tested cream is filled with the goodness of heart-leaf extracts which help clear your pores and calm any redness. It also contains prickly pear extracts, rich in vitamins A, B, and C, and potent minerals that help protect your skin and hydrate it. In addition, the aloe vera extract makes the gel lightweight and gives it a smooth texture that glides across your skin and gets absorbed quickly too. We recommend that you use this cream generously on your face and neck, every morning and night, for the desired results. It’s perfect for oily, acne-prone, and sensitive skin types; it is beneficial for people who start experiencing tiny bumps or inflammation.
Pros- Lightweight
- Natural hydrating ingredients
- Smooth texture
- Quick absorption
- Perfect Korean moisturizer for oily, acne-prone skin
- Suitable to use in warm weather
Cons
- Some may find the smell overwhelming
Suppose we are talking about one of the most hydrating moisturizers in the Korean market. In that case, we have to mention Laneige. From lip masks to sleeping masks, their products guarantee glowing, supple skin every time. The dermatologist-tested, gel-like formula is infused with grape seed oil responsible for keeping your skin hydrated and targeted explicitly towards acne-prone skin. The silky smooth finish is loved by reviewers and lasts the whole day and makes your skin feel amazing; you won’t feel any discomfort or greasiness once you slather on this product. Moreover, the water bank aspect doesn’t fail to plump your skin with essential moisture after every application. It gets absorbed quickly as well.
Pros
- Gel-like texture
- Ultra-hydrating
- Suitable for combination and sensitive skin types
- All-day moisture
- Quick absorption
- Dermatologically tested
Cons
- It may not be non-comedogenic
By now, you know the wonder that is snail mucin extract! This moisturizer has just that, and it results in smoother, brighter skin with consistent use. This product can easily be your favorite moisturizer because not only does it hydrate your skin, but it ensures that you don’t get ravaged by any zits in the future. It is skin-safety tested and works well for dull and sensitive skin. It does not leave any sticky residues as well. Of course, a little bit goes a long way, so we suggest that you use the cream as part of your night skin care for visible results. This will keep your skin soft and moisturized all through the night. Do not forget to perform a patch test before application to check for allergy to snail mucin.
Pros
- No sticky residue
- Brightening
- Suitable for acne-prone skin
- Smooth formula
Cons
- Some may find the consistency thick
Dr. Anna Chacon, a board-certified dermatologist shares, “Korea is the birthplace of pimple patches. The tiny, spherical hydrocolloid stickers aid in the healing of acne without drying it out, while also preserving the skin from future environmental aggravation.” If you would like to try out some of the best Korean moisturizers for acne-prone skin that are available online, it’s time to understand the crucial factors that make a great moisturizer. Keep reading our buying guide to know more!
Buying Guide To Choosing The Best Korean Moisturizer For Acne-Prone Skin
- Formula
By formula, we mean the type of moisturizer you are looking for, which can range from gel-based, cream-based, or lotion-based. For sensitive skin that gets easily triggered or acne-prone skin, we highly recommend that you go for water-based moisturizers and have a gel formulation that offers soothing benefits and control excess oil production; typically, as these formulas are oil and fragrance-free. If you are dry or combination skin prone to acne, then look for cream-based moisturizers as they are hydrating and non-comedogenic.
- Ingredients
It goes without saying that harsh chemicals are always a bad idea for any skin type. Hence it’s always good to go for products filled with natural ingredients that have soothing properties and are skin-friendly, hydrating, and fights acne. Look for active ingredients like aloe vera, centella asiatica, salicylic acid, niacinamide, snail mucin, etc, that also offer antioxidant benefits and protect from UV rays.
- Dermatologist-tested
Always look for the tag that says either “dermatologist-tested” or “dermatologist-recommended” because it gives the product credibility and ensures that it will provide you with the results that meet its claims. Usually, the credibility lives up to the expectations, and the moisturizers prevent acne or fight existing ones.
How To Use Korean Moisturizers For Acne-Prone Skin?
Every skincare routine starts with cleansing; this is where you use a mild face wash to wash away dirt, dead skin cells, or oil on your skin.
Next, you can use an antibacterial face wash that is specially formulated for acne-prone skin.
Once your face is washed and clean, then you can follow up with your favorite moisturizer.
Gently pat the product all over your face, neck, and décolletage. You must start from the center and massage it in (preferably in an upward motion). Keep doing this until the moisturizer is absorbed into your skin and you feel hydrated.
Finally, finish off the routine with good quality sunscreen.
Skincare Tips For Acne-Prone Skin
Here are some tips that you must follow if you have acne-prone skin:
- First, incorporate double cleansing into your routine. This ensures that the pores are cleansed and all the dirt and grime are washed away.
- Exfoliate, as it helps remove dead skin cells and impurities, which are one of the main culprits leading to acne.
- Spot treatment and moisturizers help target problematic areas by fighting active acne and preventing the onset of new ones.
Infographic: What To Look For In A Korean Moisturizer For Acne-Prone Skin
Korean moisturizers are good at soothing acne-prone skin. These are usually non-comedogenic, organic, and anti-inflammatory. However, with a variety of them flooding the beauty market, it can be quite a task to settle on one for your skin concerns. Check out the infographic below to know what to look for in the best Korean moisturizers for acne-prone skin. Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
If your regular creams and serums are failing to get rid of those pesky acne breakouts, it is about time you switch to the best Korean moisturizers for acne-prone skin. The formulas are specially designed with skin-loving ingredients to keep the skin moisturized. Most of the products mentioned on our list are non-comedogenic and ultra-hydrating. They are mostly devoid of harsh chemicals that cause breakouts and, therefore, suitable for sensitive skin. The Seoul Ceauticals Multi-Function All-In-One Anti-Aging Snail Repair Cream is ideal for reducing fine lines and wrinkles, while the COSRX Advanced Snail 92 All In One Cream is perfect for improving your skin texture. But if you are looking for something toboost skin’s protein barrier, try the Etude House Soon Jung 2x Barrier Intensive Cream. You can use these moisturizers to reduce dark spots and reveal radiant skin. . They offer color-correcting benefits and absorb quickly into the skin.These lightweight formulas can soothe irritated skin and keep the open pores clean. These moisturizers do not leave behind any sticky residue and keep the skin nourished and radiant. However, steer clear of products that have a sticky consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is moisturizer safe for acne-prone skin?
Yes, absolutely. There is a myth that moisturizers will break you out if you have oily skin. But that is far from the truth. You need to look for lightweight moisturizers that have natural acne-fighting, skin-loving ingredients, and don’t clog pores with mostly water-based formulations to get the best results.
Which Korean moisturizer is the best for acne-prone skin?
All the moisturizers listed in our reviews above are some of the best Korean skincare products for acne-prone skin. Some popular ones include Belief and Laneige.
Should I moisturize at night?
Yes, it is highly recommended that you moisturize your acne-prone skin at night. This will ensure that your skin is hydrated throughout the night and you wake up with soft, nourished skin.
What are some non-greasy Korean moisturizers for acne-prone skin?
The Belief Believe In Truth The True cream is the best non-greasy Korean moisturizer suitable for acne-prone skin. The cream is lightweight and easily absorbed into the skin. In addition, it has a mild and refreshing fragrance that keeps you feeling refreshed.
What is the best Korean moisturizer for acne-prone skin during winter?
The IUNIK Centella Calming Gel cream contains natural ingredients like tea tree extracts and niacinamide that moisturizes the acne-prone skin and prevents it from drying out during winter. Use it at night to achieve the best results.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Kirtana Divakar, the author of this article, is a skincare aficionado and is often found experimenting with various skincare products. Wanting to assist her readers in finding the best Korean moisturizers for acne-prone skin, she prepared a list of them after trying some herself and checking many product details. These products in the list keep your hair super hydrated and prevent your pores from clogging.
References
Articles on StyleCraze are backed by verified information from peer-reviewed and academic research papers, reputed organizations, research institutions, and medical associations to ensure accuracy and relevance. Read our editorial policy to learn more.
(i) An Introvert Talks
https://www.anintroverttalks.com/iunik-centella-calming-gel-cream-the-k-beauty-moisturizer-youll-want-on-your-shelf/
(ii) Polished And Inspired
https://polishedandinspired.wordpress.com/2019/11/05/review-belif-the-true-cream-moisturizing-bomb/
Read full bio of Dr. Anna H. Chacon
Read full bio of Kirtana Divakar
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
Read full bio of Swathi E
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