We reviewed popular Korean skincare products so you know which K-beauty finds to shop for your skincare goals.
Seven glow-getters, seven Korean skincare products… From the controversial VT Reedle Shot 100 to the well-loved Mixsoon Bean Essence, we’ve seen a number of influencers rave about certain K-beauty products on social media and our curiosity was piqued – so we put them to the test for two weeks. Did they live up to our expectations? Keep scrolling for our honest thoughts.
VT Reedle Shot 100
There’s no lack of influencers from South Korea (and beyond) raving about the VT Reedle Shot 100 (shop here). Search #VTReedleShot on TikTok and you get the idea. The trendy ingredient? Spicules. These microscopic, needle-like silica structures are said to improve the delivery of active ingredients into the skin, with a gentle peeling effect to improve skin cell turnover.
Given all the hype, I was excited to try this viral product when it landed on my desk. Half-nervous about applying needle-like molecules to my skin, I’m pleased to report that I only experienced a slight tingly sensation after application. It didn’t feel all that different from applying any other serum with active acid ingredients like AHAs.
PSA: don’t use this together with the other VT Reedle Shot products. The brand has a series of 100, 300, and 700, with increasing amounts of spicules (or ‘cica reedles’) with each number. Start from 100 and build your tolerance up, similar to retinol.
I’ve since noticed an improvement in skin texture, though it didn’t do much for old acne scars. It also sped up the healing process of new zits (thanks, hormones), so it’s definitely keeping its spot on my vanity. I’ve yet to experience increased skin luminosity, but it hasn’t been long since I started using this serum, so I’m keeping my fingers crossed!
-Amelia Ang
Numbuzin No 5 Vitamin Concentrated Serum
Numbuzin is a popular brand right now, so when I got the chance to give the No 5 Vitamin Concentrated Serum (shop here) a go, I dove right in. I love the fact that it came with a dropper for application – it’s more sanitary as I’m less likely to contaminate the whole bottle if I accidentally touch an applicator. The formula is light and absorbs quickly, so I can move to the rest of my routine with little interruption. And didn’t feel heavy on my face despite its viscosity.
As someone with fair skin, it didn’t take long for me to notice the changes in my complexion. The freckles I’ve had for ages lightened up quite a bit, and my skin did become brighter. Pretty impressive considering the effects of most vitamin C serums take at least a month to show (and I only used it for two weeks!).
My only gripe is that for something marketed as a glutathione serum, glutathione (a hot new anti-ageing ingredient) wasn’t high on the ingredients list. It seems like a lot of other components (like niacinamide) are doing most of the work, but that doesn’t take away from its positive effects!
-Ashe Liao
Skin1004 Hyalu-cica water-fit sun serum
Having oily skin, sunscreen is one skincare step I’m always tempted to skip (though I know that it’s one of the most important steps!). Sunscreens can be notorious for leaving a greasy residue on the skin – and who enjoys dealing with a shiny face after a long day? Naturally, I’m constantly on the lookout for a sunscreen that will keep my skin moisturised all day, sans the sheen.
Said to be hydrating and suitable for all skin types, Skin1004’s Hyalu-cica water-fit sun serum (shop here) seems promising. Right off the bat, I love its smooth and lightweight texture which makes application a breeze. The formula sets into my skin quickly, without leaving a greasy and sticky feeling or that dreaded white cast. It does give a slightly dewy finish, so it may not be ideal for those who prefer a matte look.
Oh, and bonus points for its affordability, too. All things considered, I can see this sunscreen remaining a staple in my skincare collection, especially for glowy makeup looks.
-Yuki Ling
Roundlab Birch Moisturising Sunscreen
We all need sunscreen, especially in the tropical heat. But finding a good one isn’t easy. As someone who has struggled to find a sunscreen that doesn’t leave an unsightly white cast, I was glad to discover Roundlab’s Birch Moisturising Sunscreen (shop here). One of the standout features? It blended seamlessly into my skin, leaving behind no trace of that dreaded white residue. This is a game-changer for me, as it ensures that my complexion remains radiant and even-toned without any ashy or chalky appearance.
Plus, its moisturising and lightweight formula instantly provided hydration to my skin without feeling heavy or greasy. Unlike many other sunscreens I’ve tried, this product nourishes and hydrates, leaving behind a soft, supple finish that lasts throughout the day. I’d say it’s the perfect solution for those with dry or combination skin types who seek both sun protection and moisture.
-Elizabeth Wu
Mixsoon Bean Essence
After seeing countless TikTok reviews of this viral product, I was thrilled to finally get my hands on the Mixsoon Bean Essence (shop here). Made from fermented soybean extract, this essence-exfoliator hybrid is said to boost hydration, strengthen the skin barrier, even out skin texture and tone, and refine pores.
In this economy, multitasking products are like music to my ears. I use it daily as an essence by patting it onto my skin, or as an exfoliator (twice a week) by gently rubbing the product on problem areas where large pores, blackheads, and dead skin cells reside. Once I feel the residue accumulating on my fingers, I wipe it away with a toner pad.
At first, I was sceptical about the viscous texture clogging up my oily skin. That quickly faded away when my skin drank up the product almost immediately, leaving me looking like a healthy glazed donut. I love how this gives my skin a smooth texture; it’s also a hydrating base for makeup.
-Nicole Nithiyah
Skinfood Carrot Carotene Water Pad
Skinfood’s Carrot Carotene Water Pad (shop here) is the talk of the town in the land of K-beauty at the moment. With many influencers promoting this product, I was keen to give it a go. I like how it’s super easy to use. Think of it like a mask (or as a substitute to the usual toners, where you have to buy the cotton pads separately) – simply place the pads on your face, leave them for 10 to 15 minutes, go about your day, and remove them afterwards.
My skin feels more hydrated right after putting on the product and leaving it on for 10 minutes, but I can’t tell if it makes a difference for the rest of the day. This is probably something I’d use for my nighttime self-care routine before bed – only because of the short wait (I don’t have that kind of patience and time to spare in the morning).
The only downside is that the pads tear quite easily if you don’t grip them properly. But, they’re still perfectly still usable. I like that it’s great for fitting the contours of my face snugly, as compared to one-size-fits-all sheet masks.
-Marcus Khoo
Manyo Pure Cleansing Oil
When it comes to my double-cleansing routine, I prefer balms to oils. Using the latter often results in me getting the product into my eyes – and boy, does it sting! So you can understand my apprehension about testing out the Manyo Pure Cleansing Oil (shop here).
Thank goodness that concern melted away the moment I slathered two pumps of this oil over my face. Everything – makeup, sunscreen, mistakes, worries – is easily removed, leaving a bare and happy base with zero residue. I like the citrusy scent, and my eyes don’t get irritated, which is a definite plus in my books.
I do wish it were a little more viscous though. Other than that, I say this cleansing oil is close to perfection. Maybe this item will be the one that’ll grab my attention when I’m shopping for cleansers for my double cleansing routine in the future.
-Sufyan Saad
Shop our stash from this online store
After two weeks of putting these Korean skincare products to the test, it’s safe to say that we are quite pleased with the results. Ready to make space on your vanity for some K-beauty treats? We’ll let you in on a secret: we got our stash from Uncover Skincare, a new Singapore-based online retailer of Korean and Japanese skincare products, with over 30 different brands.
The store boasts competitive prices (for both products and shipping), fast shipping (within one to two business days of carting out), and personalised recommendations for your skincare routines when you drop a message using the WhatsApp widget on the mobile site. K-beauty fans, you’ll want in on this!
This post is in partnership with Uncover Skincare.
