11 Best Korean Beauty Products For Glowing Skin, Expert-Approved – 2024
Brighten your skin and give it a natural glow with these bestselling Korean products.
Catie Wiggy has over 15 years of experience as a Licensed Master Esthetician and natural product formulator. She is the founder of Creative Beauty Collective and has worked behind the scenes with a wide variety of brands throughout her career as an executive-level marketer and innovator, developing an array of award-winning skin care lines.
Read full bio of Catie Wiggy
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: 5 yearsAditi Naskar has a postgraduate degree in English literature from Presidency University, Kolkata, a bachelor’s degree in education from WBUTTEPA, Kolkata, and a diploma in health and wellness. She is an associate commerce editor with 5 years of experience and specializes in reviewing fitness and health products.
Read full bio of Aditi Naskar
Experience: 8 yearsArshiya Syeda is the Co-Editor-in-Chief of StyleCraze with 8 years of experience. Prior to that, she was a content writer who combined her writing and research skills to write over 200 high-performing articles on hairstyles, hair care, and skin care.
Read full bio of Arshiya Syeda
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Amp up your skincare game with K-beauty products. These products are known for their unique and effective formulae. If you are looking for a skin brightening product, add the best Korean skin whitening products to your skincare routine. They contain potent ingredients that help reduce skin blemishes, even out skin tone, eliminate spots, and promote healthy skin. In addition, they are known for addressing several skin concerns and restoring skin health. In this article, we have listed the 11 best Korean skin whitening products that will give you spots-free clear glowing skin. Scroll down and check them out.
In This Article
The 11 Best Korean Beauty Products For Glowing Skin – 2024
1. Best Overall: SkinFood Rice Mask Wash Off
The SkinFood Rice Mask Wash Off is infused with 20% cheorwon odae rice bran water that cleanses away the dead skin while brightening, smoothening, and softening your skin tone. It also contains 5% cheorwon odae rice that combats free radical damage and promotes skin cell regeneration. The formula helps reveal radiant skin by hydrating rough skin patches. The bouncy-mochi-like formula gently adheres to the skin and reveals fresh, glowing skin. This formula also targets aging and textured skin and delivers a luminous, youthful glow. A personal blogger feels that the product does what it promises. She says, “I like the fragrance a lot, it smells really nice to me – but it is very strong. My hand where I applied the wash-off mask definitely feels softer in comparison to the one where I didn’t use it. I think it also helped lightly moisturize my hand, which made it feel less dry as well (i).”
Skin Type: All skin types
Key Ingredients: Cheorwon Odae rice water, Cheorwon Odae rice, Vitamin E, and Sodium hyaluronate
Pros
- Easy to apply
- Pleasant scent
- Lightweight
- Soft texture
Cons
- None
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 1,569 customers have given the product positive reviews on Amazon.
2. Best For Mature Skin: APLB Glutathione Brightening Tone Up Cream
The APLB Glutathione Brightening Tone Up Cream maintains skin health while enhancing skin elasticity. The innovative 4 leaf complex of tea tree, camellia sinensis, centella asiatica, and artemisia extracts combined with glutathione to preserve the natural moisture barrier while instantly brightening the skin. Glutathione inhibits the production of melanin. The whitening cream is enriched with niacinamide and vitamin C to smooth uneven patches, fill in fine lines, and strengthen the skin’s surface. It is fortified with hyaluronic acid to deep-moisturize the skin, witch hazel, and lotus flower extracts to tighten the pores and reduce irritation. These have antibacterial and astringent properties that help treat acne, blemishes, and uneven skin tone while keeping the skin calm. This cream has an incredible brightening effect and promotes healthy skin.
Skin Type: Oily, Combination, Sensitive, Dry, Normal
Key Ingredients: Glutathione
Pros
- Lightweight
- Anti-aging
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
- Synthetic dye-free
Cons
- None
"This face cream has a light and non-greasy texture that fits my daily skin care routine perfectly. I use just a tiny bit of the product everyday and it leaves my skin brighter and softer. It has made my skin even toned. Though it works well for my skin, those with sensitive skin might want to do a patch test beforehand."
Pro Tip“Glutathione is known as a premium antioxidant that helps improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. It also promotes moisture retention by protecting the outer layer of the skin so you stay hydrated for longer periods of time”, says Catie Wiggy, a licensed esthetician.
3. Best Moisturizing: Hiyady Glutathione Cream
The Hiyady Glutathione Cream is formulated with a combination of glutathione and hyaluronic acid to provide the skin with an instant moisture boost while visibly reducing pigmentation. Hyaluronic acid helps retain hydration, enhance the lipid barrier, and strengthen the skin surface to combat environmental pollutants. The anti-aging properties of the product boost skin elasticity, leaving a silky, smooth texture. Glutathione, a natural brightening ingredient, reduces dark patches, dark circles, dark spots, and freckles, revealing a brighter skin tone.
Skin Type: Acne-prone
Key Ingredients: Glutathione and Hyaluronic acid
Pros
- Little goes a long way
- Value for money
Cons
- May feel sticky
4. Best Gentle: AXIS-Y Dark Spot Correcting Glow Serum
The AXIS-Y Dark Spot Correcting Glow Serum is formulated with 5% niacinamide, which treats hyperpigmentation and improves skin tone and texture. This lightweight formula also contains plant-derived squalene that protects your skin from free radicals and moisturizes it, papaya that brightens your skin, and sea buckthorn that eliminates dark spots. The brightening serum is lightweight and absorbs quickly into the skin, providing a smooth, matte finish. A personal blogger is quite satisfied with the product. She writes, “This serum did help reduce and lighten some of my dark spots. It also helped even out my skin tone. It’s a nice gentle non-irritating alternative for people that can’t use vitamin C and are in search of a brightening serum (ii).”
Skin Type: All skin types
Key Ingredients: Niacinamide, Squalene, Papaya, and Sea buckthorn
Pros
- Lightweight
- Gentle
- Non-irritating
- Vegan
Cons
- None
"This serum brightens my complexion gently yet effectively. It addresses dark spots and hydrates sensitive skin. The improvements are slow when it comes to some stubborn spots. But regular use can proove to be quite effective. It is a promising tool for my skin care routine."
5. Best Value Added Set: BERGAMO Pure Snail Brightening Ampoule Set
The Pure Snail Brightening Ampoule Set from Bergamo harnesses the benefits of snail secretion filtrate to provide an instant boost of hydration to the skin to protect the natural barrier. Snail mucin is loaded with anti-aging benefits and helps fade dark spots, aids skin regeneration, and promotes collagen production. The product contains allantoin, an important part of snail secretion, that has anti-inflammatory properties that calm irritated skin. This set of 20 ampoules effectively fades acne scars and hyperpigmentation to leave the skin brighter and firmer with a balanced skin tone.
Skin Type: All skin types
Key Ingredients: Snail secretion filtrate
Pros
- Non-sticky
- Easy-to-apply
Cons
- None
6. Best Non-Comedogenic: Seoul Ceuticals Snail Repair Cream
The Seoul Ceuticals Snail Repair Cream contains 97.5% snail mucin extract that promotes a wrinkle-free brighter and healthier skin. It is also infused with shea butter, aloe, jojoba oil, green tea, and vitamins E and B5, which stimulate collagen production and promote cell turnover. Additionally, this non-comedogenic formula eliminates wrinkles, reduces dark spots, and reverses dullness. This cruelty-free formula is 72% organic and shows visible results within days of regular use.
Skin Type: Sensitive, Dry, Acne-prone, and Combination skin
Key Ingredients: Snail mucin extract, Vitamin E and B5, Green tea, Shea butter, Aloe, and Jojoba oil
Pros
- 97% natural ingredients
- Cruelty-free
- Non-greasy
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- Thick consistency
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
There are more than 2,632 Amazon reviews attesting to the quality of the product and endorsing its value.
7. Best Lightweight: Pure Block Tone Up Sun Base
The Pure Block Tone Up Sun Base provides the benefits of a primer, sunscreen, and tone-corrector in the same formula. It is a non-greasy product infused with Tahitian vanilla that protects your skin from sun damage and corrects uneven skin tone. It also contains six flower extracts that revitalize your dull skin and papaya and grapefruit extracts that control excess sebum and smoothen the skin. This smudge-proof formula contains SPF 50+ and PA+++ that protect your skin from UVA and UVB rays. It quickly absorbs into your skin and delivers a silky matte finish to your face. Additionally, this incredible tone-up cream combats the signs of aging, evens out the skin tone, and controls skin’s excess sebum production.
Skin Type: All skin types
Key Ingredients: Tahitian vanilla, Papaya, Grapefruit, and Berry blossom complex
Pros
- Easy to apply
- Gets absorbed quickly
- Non-sticky
- Non-drying
- Matte finish
- Lightweight
- Smudge-proof
- Offers sun protection
Cons
- Strong fragrance
- Leaves a white cast on the skin
"This sunscreen doubles up nicely as a makeup base. It provides substantial SPF without causing breakouts or greasiness on my skin. However, the tint may not be invisible on darker skin tones. On lighter skin, it blends smoothly. I use it mostly during the summer for it's oil-controlling nature."
8. Best For Dark Spots: Blithe Pressed Serum
The Blithe Pressed Serum is a multitasking cream that comprises the benefits of hydrating serums and moisturizers. It is infused with 31.27% apricot oil extract that inhibits the occurrence of spots and freckles, repairs sun-damaged skin, and illuminates your skin tone. The formula’s beta carotene and niacinamide hydrate and heal damaged skin while eliminating the appearance of dark spots. The serum also contains turmeric, neem, strawberry, blueberry, and sunflower seed oil extracts that boost your skin’s radiance and leave you with dewy skin.
Skin Type: Dry and Normal skin
Key Ingredients: Apricot oil extract, Beta carotene, Niacinamide, Turmeric, Neem, Strawberry, Blueberry, and Sunflower seed oil extracts
Pros
- Non-greasy
- Lasts all-day
- Clinically-tested
- Lightweight
- Absorbs quickly
- Cruelty-free
- Pleasant fragrance
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Gluten-free
- Formaldehyde-free
- Mineral oil-free
Cons
- Might cause breakouts
"I love this serum for its hydrating properties. Its smooth texture leaves my skin looking noticeably more radiant. Although there were no immediate results in my wrinkles, I've made it a part of my daily routine. And I am seeing some improvement with regular use. The fragrance-free formula is great for sensitive skin. While it might be a bit heavy for my entire face, it works wonders as a targeted treatment."
Pro Tip9. Best For Dry Skin: SNP Diamond Brightening Ampoule Mask
The Diamond Brightening Ampoule Mask from SNP uses finely-ground diamond particles to provide gentle exfoliation to revitalize dry and patchy skin. It removes dead and damaged skin cells to reveal radiant skin. The hyaluronic acid in the mask naturally moisturizes the skin and promotes elasticity and firmness, while niacinamide minimizes the appearance of pores, redness, and reduces hyperpigmentation and sun damage. This natural cellulose sheet mask fits the face contours and allows the skin to absorb all nutrients and is vouched for by multiple reviewers.
Skin Type: Acne-prone and dry skin
Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, and Diamond powder
Pros
- Anti-aging
- Mineral oil-free
- Silicone-free
- Artificial color-free
Cons
- Strong fragrance
10. Best Unscented: SeoulCeuticals Ultra Glow Turmeric Face Cream
The SeoulCeuticals Ultra Glow Turmeric Face Cream is a hydrating face moisturizer for dull and dry skin. This unscented moisturizer contains effective ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, salicylic acid, vitamin E, and glycolic acid that restore the skin’s moisture levels and glow, imparting visible results. It also contains turmeric that helps exfoliate, brighten, and even tone the skin. This product works as an anti-aging cream and helps reduce wrinkles, fine lines, and loose skin. However, it is best recommended to conduct a test on a small patch of skin to avoid any irritations and reactions.
Skin Type: All skin types
Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, Shea butter, Organic aloe, Glycolic acid, and Salicylic acid
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
- Reduces fine lines and wrinkles.
Cons
- None
Fun Fact11. Best With SPF: Nella White Snow Brightening Tone-Up Sun Cream
The lightweight White Snow Brightening Tone-Up Sun Cream from Nella offers powerful UVA and UVB protection as it boasts a broad spectrum SPF50 and PA+++ ratings. It forms a protective layer on the skin to keep it hydrated and moisturized for long. This non-greasy formula naturally brightens the skin while concealing blemishes and minimizing visible pores. It improves the moisture skin barrier and enhances the look of your skin. The sun cream also works as a makeup base and imparts radiant skin.
Skin Type: Normal skin
Key Ingredients: Grapefruit oil, Lemon extract, Cardamom seed oil, and Sandalwood oil
Pros
- Lightweight
- Works as a make-up base
- Non-greasy
- Non-sticky
Cons
- Not suitable for dry skin
"I'm pleasantly surprised by this sunscreen. When applied under my makeup, the subtle pink tint enhances my skin tone without any greasy or sticky residue. It provides a smooth canvas for my daily looks. This product is one of my constants."
K- Beauty products can do wonders on your skin when it comes to skin whitening. However, you cannot select any skincare product only based on reading their pros and cons. For detailed research, check out the buying guide that we have curated for Korean skin whitening products.
Things You Should Consider Before Buying Skin Whitening Products
- Skin Type
It is very important to select skin whitening products according to your skin type. If you have normal skin, go with the vitamin-rich formulas. For oily skin, you must go for lightweight creams that can control excess sebum production and keep your skin well-nourished. If you have acne-prone skin, opt for formulations with ingredients including benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and hyaluronic acid that prevent pore blockage and improve your skin’s texture.
- Ingredients
Check the ingredients listed in the product’s bottle before purchasing it. Look for ingredients like vitamin C, glycolic acid, hydroquinone, and licorice extract that help brighten the skin. Vitamin C helps in depigmentation of hyperpigmented spots and inhibits melanin production. If you have sensitive skin, avoid kojic acid since it causes rashes, itches, and dry patches. No matter what your skin type is, products with artificial fragrances, parabens, and sulfate-based ingredients should be avoided. Go for professional-grade products with skin-friendly compositions for the best results.
- Reviews
People who have used the products can offer better feedback. Check e-commerce websites to know more from the customers who have already purchased the skin whitening products. These reviews can be very helpful in shortlisting the right formulations for your skin. Compare any available reviewer’s experience of the product on any trustworthy website and make your choice accordingly.
- Affordability
Many skincare products, especially creams, are expensive, but some offer good value for the money you spend. The best skin whitening products are budget-friendly, clean, and long-lasting. It is important to choose products that would offer effective results without burning a hole in your pocket. Opt for reasonably-priced products from trusted brands that offer toxin-free formulas.
Infographic: Things To Consider Before Buying Korean Products For Glowing Skin
Using Korean skin care products is the best way to brighten your complexion and get the even-toned skin of your dreams. They are made to suit all skin types and formulated with safe and tested ingredients that improve your skin’s appearance. But how do you know which is the product for you to buy from the above list?
Check out the infographic below to learn a few tips that you should keep in mind when buying a Korean product for glowing skin. Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Level up your skincare game by investing in K-beauty products. These products are uniquely formulated to address several skin concerns. They brighten up your dull and lifeless skin. The Korean skin whitening products contain ingredients that moisturize the skin deeply, even out the skin, help fade blemishes and fine lines, and give you spotless healthy glowing skin. The SkinFood Rice Mask Wash Off exfoliates dead skin cells and promotes skin cell regeneration, while the AXIS-Y Dark Spot Correcting Glow Serum improves the skin tone and texture. If you are looking for a cruelty-free formula, then the Seoul Ceuticals Snail Repair Cream is a great option. Most of the products on our list are lightweight, non-greasy, and paraben-free. However, some might have a strong fragrance and may cause breakouts in certain skin types. Read the product reviews carefully before investing in one that addresses your skin needs.
Why Trust Stylecraze
The author of this post, Shiboli Chakraborti, is a certified skin care coach. After thorough research and checking many different products, she recommends these best Korean skin whitening products. The products are skin safe and effectively reduce blemishes, evens the skin tone, and brighten skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most effective Korean skin whitening product?
The most effective Korean skin whitening product is quick-absorbing, improves skin elasticity, and offers a naturally radiant glow. You can try the Nella Oneday Whitener Magical Whitening Lotion, which is non-greasy and offers excellent moisturization.
Are Korean whitening products safe?
Yes, most Korean whitening products are safe to use. However, while choosing the right one, go for a product that suits your skin type, addresses specific skin issues, and is free of toxic ingredients.
Do Korean skin care routines lighten the skin tone permanently?
No, skin care routines cannot help with skin lightening your tone. However, when used regularly, effective regimes can improve your skin texture, nourish your skin, and offer a youthful glow.
Does the Korean skin care routine work on brown skin?
Yes. Korean skin care routines primarily focus on exfoliation, sun protection, and hydration. Therefore, it is suitable for people with brown skin who are experiencing issues like hyperpigmentation and sun damage.
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) REJUJUNATE
https://rejujunate.wordpress.com/2017/02/08/review-skinfood-rice-mask-wash-off/
(ii) Gemini’s Library
https://geminislibrairy.wordpress.com/2021/01/27/axis-y-dark-spot-correcting-glow-serum-review/
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