When it comes to glowing, glass-like skin, South Korea is the global gold standard. From K-pop idols to K-drama stars, South Korean celebrities have access to some of the most advanced skincare products in the world. But the good news? Many of their favorites are available to the public, and you can get your hands on them, too.
In this article, we’ll reveal 10 South Korean skincare products that celebrities swear by. These aren’t just hyped by fans; they’re loved and used by actual stars. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your skincare routine or you’re simply curious about what keeps Korean celebrities looking flawless, this guide will walk you through the best of the best.
Let’s dive into the glow-inducing world of Korean celebrity skincare.
1. Laneige Water Sleeping Mask
It’s impossible to talk about South Korean skincare without mentioning Laneige, and their Water Sleeping Mask is one of the most iconic products on the market. Beloved by stars like actress Song Hye-kyo, this overnight gel mask delivers intense hydration while you sleep. Infused with Hydro Ionized Mineral Water and a calming Sleepscent™, it leaves the skin plump, dewy, and radiant by morning.
Many Korean celebrities use this mask before major events or photoshoots to ensure their skin looks fresh and rested. It’s gentle enough for daily use and works wonders for tired or dull skin. No wonder it has such a strong fan base in the K-entertainment world.
2. Sulwhasoo First Care Activating Serum
When top-tier actresses like Jun Ji-hyun and Kim Tae-ri use a product, it’s worth paying attention. Sulwhasoo’s First Care Activating Serum is a luxurious pre-serum designed to be used immediately after cleansing. Packed with traditional Korean herbal ingredients like ginseng and lotus, it enhances the absorption of subsequent skincare steps and boosts overall skin health.
This serum is especially favored by mature Korean celebrities thanks to its anti-aging benefits. It brightens, firms, and hydrates in one step, making it a multitasking essential in many high-profile routines.
3. Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Tiger Grass Re.Pair Serum
K-pop idols and actors with sensitive skin often turn to Dr. Jart+, particularly the Cicapair Tiger Grass Re.Pair Serum. It’s known for its powerful soothing properties, ideal for calming irritation, reducing redness, and strengthening the skin barrier.
Idols like TWICE’s Sana and Red Velvet’s Irene are reported fans of Dr. Jart+, especially after long hours under heavy stage makeup. The serum uses Centella Asiatica (tiger grass), a staple in Korean skincare, to heal and hydrate stressed skin. It’s a lifesaver after late-night filming or concert tours.
4. COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence
This cult-favorite essence has found its way into the routines of many Korean celebrities thanks to its powerful repairing abilities. With a whopping 96% snail mucin, the COSRX Advanced Snail Essence helps fade acne scars, smooth texture, and deeply hydrate the skin.
Actresses like Lee Sung-kyung and idol-turned-actress Krystal Jung have been linked to COSRX’s snail line, praising its skin-renewing properties. It’s especially popular with those who struggle with breakouts or dry, flaky patches. Despite the unusual main ingredient, this essence is lightweight, fast-absorbing, and extremely effective.
5. Innisfree Green Tea Seed Serum
A staple product from Jeju-based brand Innisfree, the Green Tea Seed Serum is adored by both male and female celebrities for its antioxidant-rich, deeply hydrating formula. EXO’s Sehun and Yoona of Girls’ Generation have endorsed the product, and it remains one of Korea’s top-selling serums.
Made with a unique blend of green tea extract and green tea seed oil, this serum nourishes the skin from within and helps maintain a healthy moisture barrier. It’s perfect for everyday use and ideal for all skin types, especially in dry climates or air-conditioned environments.
6. Mediheal N.M.F. Aquaring Ampoule Mask
Sheet masks are a must-have in every Korean celebrity’s beauty arsenal, and Mediheal’s N.M.F. Aquaring Mask is among the most popular. This deeply hydrating mask is formulated with sodium hyaluronate, witch hazel, and allantoin to soothe, plump, and restore the skin.
Popularized by BTS, who have been spotted using Mediheal masks both on and off camera, the brand even launched a special edition collaboration with the group. These masks are an essential backstage beauty tool for idols and actors who need to look flawless at all times.
7. Banila Co Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm
Makeup removal is a crucial step in any K-beauty routine, especially for celebrities constantly wearing foundation, stage makeup, or sunscreen. Banila Co’s Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm is a favorite among Korean stars because of how easily it melts away makeup without stripping the skin.
Actress Suzy Bae has spoken about using cleansing balms like this as part of her double-cleansing ritual. With a sherbet-like texture that transforms into oil on the skin, Clean It Zero is not just effective—it’s also gentle and non-comedogenic, making it suitable for even the most sensitive complexions.
8. Hera UV Mist Cushion
One of the best-selling cushion foundations in South Korea, Hera’s UV Mist Cushion has been a go-to product for celebrities who need perfect, buildable coverage on the go. Actress Shin Min-a and BLACKPINK’s Jennie have been spotted using Hera, and the brand is known for collaborating with top models and celebrities.
The UV Mist Cushion offers SPF protection, dewy finish, and long-lasting wear, making it ideal for photo shoots, filming, or red carpet events. It’s a true multitasker, delivering hydration and sun protection while evening out the complexion.
9. IOPE Stem III Ampoule
A premium anti-aging ampoule that’s earned its place in the vanities of actresses like Kim Hyun-joo and Han Ji-min, the IOPE Stem III Ampoule is powered by plant stem cells and advanced biotech ingredients. This serum targets fine lines, loss of elasticity, and dullness, offering visible results with consistent use.
It’s not a budget product, but many Korean celebrities swear by its skin-reviving benefits. If you’re looking to invest in a high-performance serum that gives your skin a firmer, more youthful appearance, this ampoule is worth the splurge.
10. Missha Time Revolution First Treatment Essence
Often referred to as the affordable alternative to SK-II’s famous essence, Missha’s Time Revolution First Treatment Essence has gained a loyal following in the Korean entertainment industry. With fermented yeast extract as its key ingredient, this essence helps refine skin texture, brighten the complexion, and boost hydration.
IU, one of Korea’s top solo artists, is said to favor fermented skincare for its gentle but powerful effect on the skin. This product is often the first step after cleansing and primes the skin beautifully for serums and moisturizers to follow.
Bottom line
The world of K-beauty is vast, but these ten products stand out for a reason—they’re genuinely loved by South Korean celebrities who rely on them to look their best under the harshest lights. Whether you’re a K-pop fan or just a skincare enthusiast, incorporating these celeb-approved products can help elevate your routine to the next level.
Glowing skin isn’t just for the stars. With the right products, a bit of consistency, and some Korean skincare wisdom, your skin can shine just as brightly.
