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When it comes to skincare, finding products that actually work can feel like trial and error. Trust me, I’ve spent a LOT of time (and money) trying different brands before finding the ones that truly deliver. After plenty of experimenting, I’ve discovered some holy grail brands that I swear by. These have been game-changers in my routine, and I can’t recommend them enough. Here’s a list of my faves and why I love them:
Anua
I absolutely love Anua for their calming and soothing products. Their Heartleaf 77% Toner has been a staple in my routine for reducing redness and irritation. It’s lightweight, refreshing, and perfect for prepping your skin before serums and moisturizers. Their Toner Pads are another must-have — they’re a lifesaver when I’m feeling lazy but still want my skin to feel clean and hydrated. And don’t even get me started on their Azelaic Acid 10% — this product is incredible for fading dark spots, improving skin texture, and calming breakouts. If you struggle with redness, inflammation, or uneven skin tone, Anua is a brand worth trying.
Roundlab
Roundlab’s Cleanser is one of the gentlest yet most effective face washes I’ve tried. It leaves my skin feeling super clean but never dry or tight, which is a big deal for me. If you’ve ever felt like your cleanser is stripping your skin, Roundlab’s gentle formula might be exactly what you need. Plus, their products are packed with soothing ingredients that calm irritation while still getting the job done.
Skin1004
Skin1004 has some absolute gems that I can’t live without. Their Oil Cleanser is amazing for melting away makeup — waterproof mascara, sunscreen, and long-wear foundation all disappear with ease. It’s gentle yet powerful, and it never leaves my skin feeling greasy. Their Centella Ampoule is another favorite — it’s perfect for calming inflammation and giving my skin that dewy, healthy glow. Both products have become total must-haves in my routine.
La Roche-Posay
This brand has been a total lifesaver for my skin, especially when I’m dealing with breakouts or irritation. Their Effaclar Cleanser and Duo M+ are incredible for keeping acne under control without drying out my skin. For stubborn spots or dry patches, their Cicaplast B5 is my go-to — it’s soothing, calming, and works wonders overnight.
And for my eczema-prone skin, their Lipikar Baume is a winter essential. It’s rich, nourishing, and keeps my skin from feeling dry and itchy during colder months. If you suffer from eczema like me, I know how you feel. It is the most horrible feeling ever. When I had severe eczema breakout, I would apply this 3 times a day, when I wake up, immediately after showering, and before I sleep, and it is able to heal the eczema spot tremendously in just a week. I honestly don’t know how I’d survive without it.
Dr. Althea
If you’re looking for a Vitamin C Serum that brightens your skin without irritation, Dr. Althea is a must-try. It’s lightweight, effective, and perfect for improving dullness and uneven skin tone. Their 345 Relief Cream is another standout — it’s packed with soothing ingredients that calm redness and strengthen your skin barrier. If your skin feels sensitive or easily irritated, this cream is a game-changer.
Beauty of Joseon
Beauty of Joseon’s Relief Sun SPF 50 is hands down my favorite sunscreen. It’s lightweight, non-sticky, and leaves zero white cast, making it perfect for everyday wear. Plus, their serums are incredibly gentle, making them ideal for layering with other actives like retinol or exfoliants. If you want effective yet gentle products, Beauty of Joseon is a fantastic option.
The Ordinary
This brand is one of the most popular skincare brands right now, which is both budget-friendly yet seriously effective. I swear by their Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% serum, Hyaluronic Acid serum, and Natural Moisturizing Factors. They’re simple, straightforward, and get the job done. If you’re just starting out with skincare and you’re not sure what to buy, but at the same time want effective products without spending a fortune, The Ordinary is perfect.
So, What’s Next?
Well, you can check out some of these brands above that I’ve mentioned (most of them being k-beauty products). These brands have seriously changed my skincare game, and I can’t recommend them enough. Whether you’re looking to calm redness, treat acne, or just improve your overall skin texture, these products have been total winners for me. Skincare is all about finding what works for you, but these brands have been tried and tested — and my skin couldn’t be happier!
