34 Korean beauty items that are so good you might shed a tear when they run out

Promising review: "This is my new favorite sunscreen. It works with my toner and all three of the different moisturizers I choose from use depending on what my skin is doing. No pilling or separating. It’s lightweight and has excellent coverage. Seriously, no white cast. At all. I did the black light test and it definitely works. And the price is fantastic." —Quinn

Get it from Amazon for $18+ (available in two sizes).

BTW, a lot of reviewers say they use this as part of their double cleansing routine. As the name implies, double cleansing is a method of cleansing your face twice: first with an oil-based cleanser, and again with a water-based cleanser to help get all the yucky stuff out of your pores.

Promising review: "BEST OIL CLEANSER I SWEAR. I’ve gone through 3-4 bottles now and it continues to cleanse my skin AMAZING. It melts makeup, clears pores. Honestly it's heaven-sent. The first time I used it, it cleared a lot of my sebum and even now when I use it, it clears any dead skin and dirt I have, even when I don’t wear makeup. BUY IT, it's amazing. You can see all the dirt that came out of my face recently in the photo." —rexichor

Get it from Amazon for $15.80 (also available in a mild formula for sensitive skin).

Promising review: "Not any of the many I’ve tried throughout my life have worked as incredibly as this one has. I’ve had top recommended brand cleansers that required two washes to thoroughly cleanse it all off. Not with this one. And the scent is wonderful!! I love it even more for that! The size of the bottle is much bigger than I expected and for such a great price!! Highly recommended!" —Carlos

Get it from Amazon for $11.99+ (available in two sizes).

Promising review: "I saw this product mentioned in so many articles about cheap products that are great. I don't know what took me so long to purchase this, but I am kicking myself for waiting!! My hair is DAMAGED. Beyond fried. I've bleached it so many times. I am consistently changing my hair color, and while the semi-permanent dyes don't hurt it, the bleach sure does! My hair always feels like straw. My hair looks and feels INCREDIBLE!!! It is so soft and I am just absolutely in love! This will forever be used by me from now on!" —Krystle Lee

And check out our Elizavecca CER-100 hair protein treatment review for more deets!

Get it from Amazon for $6.99.

Here's what BuzzFeed Shopping writer Gabriela Manjarrez has to say: "Having written about *so* much K-beauty, I feel like I've written about every Korean product under the sun. However, this serum only recently came into my radar through a sample box — and thank goodness it did! Coincidentally, I received this just before embarking on a three-week European adventure and decided to take this with me. I have veryyy prone-to-frizz 2c hair, and through all of the different cities and varying climates, this serum kept my hair soft, silky, and (mercifully!) frizz-free. I dare say I'll be keeping this in my hair regimen forever. Not to mention, it leaves your hair smelling absolutely delightful!"

Promising review: "Literally, the best hair product you can possibly get that is affordable and doesn’t leave your hair greasy — it makes it shiny and super soft. After I get out of the shower, when my hair is still damp, I put some on my ends and work the rest up into the top of my head. Sometimes I blow my hair dry after I get out of the shower and put it on, and then after I blow dry it, I put it on some more, and it looks absolutely beautiful — no greasy hair here. My hair type is fine and gets oily really fast, and yet somehow this product tames it a bit and keeps it looking healthy for days! Will purchase again and again!!!" —Tara Klein

Get it from Amazon for $18.99+ (available in two sizes, as a detangling spray and a leave-in cream, and in other formulas).

Promising review: "My feet have been dryyyyy since having my kiddos (maybe hormonal, idk) and I've been using the metal grater regularly, lotions and creams nightly, pedicures with callus removal monthly, the list goes on. I'm shocked at how well these socks work! One time used so far, and my feet feel amazing! Better than all the other things I mentioned. I didn't get the peel ones cuz I've done that once and don't feel like dealing with the peeling, so I'm talking about the non-peel moisturizing socks. Get them! 30 minutes of chilling with them before sleep time and you'll love your feet!" —EB

Get two pairs from Amazon for $9.99.

This lip oil is vegan, cruelty-free, and has no parabens, sulfates, or phthalates.

Promising review: "This is the first lip oil I've ever used. Usually I avoid anything with oil because I have very sensitive and generally oilier skin, but I wanted to give this a try because I wanted something sheer and pretty for a natural makeup look. Probably the best purchase I've ever made!!! It's super sheer and looks fine on its own without any other makeup. The smell is delicious, and while the gloss dries and fades after about an hour or two without eating, the color stays all day! I did have to reapply after eating, but not after drinking water! I just wish it was bigger, it's a teeny bottle. Would definitely buy again!!" —Rachel

Get it from Amazon for $9.99 (available in 19 shades and in multipacks).

Promising reviews: "I almost never buy the same beauty product twice, with very few exceptions. Why, when there are so many to try?! This one blew my mind. It feels so rich and luxurious, but still soaks in quickly. It doesn’t feel sticky or oily, and it makes my skin feel incredible. I’m combination, but run dry, and this keeps me evened out even in winter." —fannbea6

"This mask is the best!! Your skin will feel hydrated and soft. It is a great overnight reset moisturizer. Tip: I put it inside my fridge so it can stay cold, and when I put it on, the feeling is fantastic, especially after a long day of work." —Valery Caicedo

Get it from Amazon for $33.

Promising review [Berry]: "If i could only wear one lip product for the rest of my life this is 100% it. hydrating. non sticky. thin but not slippery. smells amazing and not too sweet. the sheerest color but still a bit of tint. natural gloss and shine" —M120

Get it from Amazon or Sephora for $19 (available in 11 shades and as a cute gift set).

While this serum is designed to be less irritating, as with any powerful skincare product, it's important to start slow and patch test to see how your skin reacts. If your skin tolerates it, you can apply both morning and night after cleansing.

Promising review: "Honestly, buy it. I was skeptical about this serum, especially since it’s such a large bottle for so cheap, plus this was a leap of faith for me since I do have sensitive skin. I’ve been using this religiously for over a week now, and even after the first day, I could see and feel the improvement of my skin. I went from having small red breakouts to clear, even skin almost overnight. I’m not even wearing makeup now because I love the look and glow to my skin. I don’t even do reviews, but this product deserves it 100%. I will be purchasing again. BUY IT!" —Boogs

Get it from Amazon for $19.99.

BuzzFeed Shopping editor Jenae Sitzes says, "This is one of my fave new everyday lip products. I have it in Tangerine Red, and the color is soft and subtle — I like that I can take it out and apply it without having to look in a mirror, like you would with lipstick — but at the same time, it makes a huge difference, making my lips look hydrated and my whole face more ~alive~ (especially on no-makeup days)."

Promising review: "Best lip balm I ever used! The color development is subtle, so it's good to use for bare face makeup, and I think it would be good to apply as a base!! As far as moisturizing power, it has good retention and it's hypoallergenic. I recommend to those who don't wear heavy makeup, those who are looking for a moist, colored lip balm." —Y.Lee

Get it from Amazon for $12 (available in seven shades).

Promising reviews: "This has been THEEE best product for my dry sensitive skin. These pads are brightening and helped my uneven skin texture. I didn’t know these pads would change my skin completely!! I’ll be repurchasing forever, best skincare product I’ve used in a long time, you NEED THIS! You’ll immediately notice a difference." —Kenny Vasquez

"When I tell you my skin hasn’t been this clear in forever. I have PCOS and hirsutism, which causes me to grow hair on my neck and chin. I’m also a skin picker so clearing my skin has been really difficult for me. But this product has saved my skin. I’m still working on my skin picking but when I don’t, these pads help to exfoliate and help with the dark marks. Thank Anua!" —Jessyca Renee

Get it from Amazon for $22.

Promising review: "This eye cream makes my eyes so soft, it has this luxurious feel that is better than any high-end product I have tried and for the cost? This stuff is unbelievable. I tried Ogee and all sorts of products that people swear by, but this one keeps my eyes hydrated and soft all night and lasts until the next day. It also isn’t greasy which I love. Since it has retinol I only put on at night and use a vitamin C serum by murad in the morning. I love this product! You can feel and see a different after one use." —AJ

Get it from Amazon for $11.90+ (available in two sizes).

Promising review: "Disclaimer: I went on Accutane five years ago, and this product is one of several other products in my day/night skincare routine. I first picked this up at an Olive Young store during a trip I took to South Korea. It was listed as one of their best-sellers, and I 100% can see why. I mist my face before applying a few drops, and it absorbs really quickly. Almost immediately, my skin looks/feels more hydrated and prepped for the rest of my routine. The days where I feel lazy and don’t complete my skincare routine or cheat and not use this, my face definitely looks less dewy/a little more dull. Idk but I’m sold for sure." —Jaylen

Get it from Amazon for $20.25 (also available in a two-pack and refill set).

SeoulCeuticals is a small skincare business that was founded in 2017 by a husband and wife team. Though it's a US-based company and the products are made in a state-of-the-art US facility, their main ingredients are sourced directly from South Korea, and they work closely with Korean partners and their consultant Ella Cho to ensure quality and authenticity. You can read more about the brand here!

Promising review: "I’m on my fourth or fifth bottle of this stuff, I use it as a daily toner and I must say that it is AMAZING. My skin is even and bright. I look like a buttery roll or a glazed donut and I love it. My skin has never loved me more. I also pair this with their serum, along with a strict skincare routine." —Victoria Del La Torre

Get it from Amazon for $19.98+ (available in two formulas).

It's fragrance-free and safe for sensitive skin! FYI, this product has new packaging now.

Promising review: "My new favorite moisturizer. It doesn't leave skin greasy. It instantly makes my skin comfortable and calm. It is unscented and leaves skin with a good texture. Works much better than much more expensive alternatives." —Carolyn Raney Mason

Get it from Amazon for $20.99.

After cleansing, soak your cotton pad with the toner, gently wipe your face, and lightly tap for absorption. Follow with moisturizer!

Read more about tea tree oil and acne at the Mayo Clinic. 

Promising review: "This stuff works! First off all there was no purging period, which my acne prone skin is grateful for. It also doesn't sting or smell harsh. Within a week of using this toner I stopped having breakouts. My dark spots are slowly getting lighter and my skin is starting to glow. I'm on my second bottle now and I have nothing but good things to say. I really hope they never stop making this." —kem

Get it from Amazon for $16.80.

Promising reviews: "I saw this all over TikTok/Instagram and decided to buy it because I have a lot of sebaceous filaments on my chin and nose. It's a little expensive but I took a gamble: it works! You can physically see the sebaceous filaments come out of your pores, it is not the product bunching up. My problem areas were so much smoother after using and are left with a moisturized glow. I then proceeded to have my boyfriend use this product to see of it worked this good on everyone on the first try and it worked on his nose as well. Amazing stuff. 🩷" —Losa

"I have hyperpigmentation and oily skin. I feel this product regulates my oil production and it helps my makeup look so flawless. 10/10." —MissKayMae

Get it from Amazon for $14.90+ (available in two sizes).

Promising reviews: "I swear to you, this stuff is magical. My makeup never budges when I use this, and I don’t have to use that much. You can take it off with micellar water pretty easily, but I’m telling you I have ugly cried with this over my makeup and my makeup stayed. the. same. It’s the best. It also has the nicest bottle, it sprays really evenly over your face, and if it has any flaw, it’s probably that it makes your makeup a little TOO dewy, but I usually use a little powder over the parts of my face I don’t want to be highlighted and it works like a gem. Also definitely blurs my makeup very well. 10/10 would recommend!!!!" —Jennifier Moore

"I've fallen in love with this setting spray. It leaves the skin looking fresh, not shiny. It locks in makeup. The nozzle provides very fine misting. I think it's replaced my Urban Decay All Nighter setting spray." —Michelle

Get it from Amazon for $12.75 (also available in a semi-matte version).

Promising reviews: "This lip gloss glides on so well! It has a nice pigment, and I love that there are the 30% and 70%, which cater to different preferences. I got three of the 30% and one of the 70% because I like a more natural look. The packaging is also really cute! Korean lippies are the best!" —Sunny

"Feels like butter spun into silk on your lips. I have 70% currant, and I love it so much. I will be purchasing more shades! 😍" —Karli

Get it from Amazon for $17 (available in 21 colors).

Check out this TikTok of Mikayla Nogueira's review of this foundation.

Promising review: "This is my first time trying Korean makeup, and I’m very happy with my purchase! It feels like nothing I’ve ever tried before. I have oily skin, and this isn’t a matte product, but it’s not dewy either, which I love. It’s moisturizing, but not oily at all. I think any skin type can use it. It’s literally perfect. The application and the cushion made it go on my skin flawlessly. I wish I could give this 10 stars; it really exceeded my expectations! It will definitely be a staple in my makeup routine now." —Cathy

Get it from Amazon for $18.75+ (available in 40 shades, a matte finish, a semi-matte finish, a dewy finish, and a mini size).

Read more about tea tree oil and acne at the Mayo Clinic.

Promising reviews: "I bought this for my husband, who struggles with back acne and redness, especially after workouts. We weren't expecting instant results, but we took a before/after photo out of curiosity — and were genuinely surprised. After just one use, his skin looked noticeably less red and inflamed. The gel texture is refreshing, has a light tea tree scent (not overpowering), and lathers really well. It rinses clean without leaving any residue or dryness. We’ll keep using it daily to see how it works long-term, but this first impression is honestly impressive. Highly recommend giving it a try if you're looking for a gentle yet effective body acne wash that actually shows results." —Sherry Ann

"If you use this constantly, you definitely will see progress with your KP skin. Lathers really well, so one pump is enough. Moisturize after using." —Destiny

Get it from Amazon for $19.90.

Promising review: "I'm 44 and for the past four years my skin has been throwing a hissy fit. No matter what I tried my pores were screaming through my makeup. You know what I mean? Makeup sinking into the pores will turn any good foundation into a pool party on your face. Finally, a month ago I found this and it really works. I have combo-dry skin, weather depending and it doesn't make my skin oily. My foundation sets nicely over it (no sinking) and stays on for about eight hours before needing a touchup. And of course my pores...barely visible!!!! I'm happy!" —KPak

Get it from Amazon for $14.99.

The keychain will come empty *but* it is intended for you to fill it up with product from the included jelly pot.

Promising review: "This is a super glowy gel-texture blush/lip gloss. I love it as a blush, it’s absolutely beautiful and ethereal and glowing. It looks very natural despite being shiny. The shade Compote looks like a natural flush on my fair, cool toned skin. It doesn’t last very long and it is a bit sticky on the skin, so those are my complaints. I really recommend getting the little brush that this brand makes so you don’t have to dip your fingers in the pot. Less messy and less risk of germs." —Danielle

Get it from Amazon for $12.99 (available in 11 shades).

Promising review: "These have become my FAVORITE lip product. They feel like silky jelly on your lips. They don’t dehydrate them or dry them out. They give a gorgeous plumping effect that makes them look bigger and fuller. The colors are nice. I have three different ones and use them all regularly mixing them with lip stains and lipsticks for fun. They combine nicely with other products but again, the fact that they don’t dry my lips out is great!" —Alyssa C.

Get it from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in 23 colors).

Check out a TikTok of this mask in action.

Promising review: "Oh…my god…. 🤯 No scent. It starts milky white and turns clear. I left it on overnight, woke up, and I was shook!! Pores? Where? Dry patch? Where? Fine wrinkles? Whheeerrrrrre??? I put it on over my lips as well, and it almost looked like I had filler. It was so plump! 10/10 recommend. Holy grail of face masks <3" —Kichi

Get it from Amazon for $19 (available in a four and 16-count).

It's fragrance-free and cruelty-free!

Promising review: "Honestly just tried this due to high demand and to find a cheaper niacinamide serum. I have been using Glow Recipe Niacinamide Dew Drops but it didn't work as effectively as this. I was incredibly surprised by how this serum calms my skin, and my dark spots have been lightening and are almost gone. I also haven't broken out. I use this twice a day and it works well under makeup. It'll give you glowy skin if you're one of those who loves dewy look. I am currently using this together with Anua cleansing foam and it's incredible! Definitely subscribing to this as my regular serum!" —Chachamaru

Get it from Amazon for $16.20.

If you're looking for a cheaper option, the Etude eyebrow pencil is also highly rated (but available in a limited number of shades).

Promising review: "My absolute holy grail brow pencil! I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve repurchased this! Honestly, this is so much better than the high-end brands I used to use. It glides on so smoothly without pulling, but the best part is that it stays put all day long!" —Jung Kim

Get it from Amazon for $17 (available in 10 shades).

Promising review: "I started using this amazing product because I was given a sample, and the first time I tried it, I knew it was something extra special. I could see a difference IMMEDIATELY (not kidding), and now I am a devout believer. This enzyme peel is the closest thing to getting an actual peel without the pain and the healing time — and cost — that’s required. I now use it 2–3 times a week. It really does have instant results. I sometimes even go without makeup now. And I am 58 years old. That’s impressive! Thanks Amore Pacific!" —Katharine Pope

Get it from Amazon for $68.

Promising review: "Okay! So I was skeptical at first, but honestly this stick is life changing!!! In a matter of minutes my skin felt hydrated and plumped. After an hour, still hydrated. No greasy after feeling, very light, and you can feel your skin hydrated and absorbing. I love the fact that you can use it on your eyes, lips and wrinkles!! Game changer for me, will def try the others!" —Kristy 

Get it from Amazon for $22.99 (available in four styles).

BTW, these work best on open, draining pustules (rather than blackheads or pimples that haven't come to a head yet). You can read more at the Cleveland Clinic!

Promising review: "I am a pimple patch fan okay. I have tried them ALL but I always was intrigued by this brand and was very skeptical on three things: effectiveness, visibility, and size. I LOVE the fact that Rael pimple patches have two different sizes, all with hydrocolloid. They are practically invisible on the face unless you are extremely close up. I would feel extremely comfortable wearing these to my childcare job because I know they are not visible, and if you work with kids you know how they love to point pimple patches out. 🤣 I left one on my face all night (9+ hours), and it completely erased the pimple on the side of my cheek. Best pimple recovery I've seen ever on my face. I love these and will buy more, and you should too!!!!!" —Brian Cage

Get a pack of 96 from Amazon for $16.99.

Promising review: "Liquid gold! I’m obsessed with this. It’s one of the first products I purchased when starting my glass skin journey. Centella asiatica is known to calm sensitive skin, reduce redness and inflammation. My skin barrier was damaged from all the actives I used in the past. Since I started using this ampoule in the morning and night, my skin is a lot more hydrated and less red and irritated. It absorbs beautifully into the skin and doesn’t leave tackiness. My skin is left glowing after every use. I’ve recommended this product to friends and family, and they all feel the same. It’s a must for any skin type!" —frugalANDfeminine

Get it from Amazon for $12.15.

This toner is vegan and cruelty-free.

The original formula is great for dry skin, providing deep hydration and nourishment. If you have oily or combination skin, try the light formula instead, as it can help control excess oil and prevent breakouts. 

Promising review: "This rice toner is hands-down my favorite part of my skincare routine. The moment I apply it, my skin feels noticeably plump, soft, and deeply hydrated. It gives my complexion such a healthy, refreshed glow and leaves my skin feeling nourished all day. I’ve gone through countless bottles of this toner, and that’s saying something because I love trying new skincare products. No matter what else I switch up, this is the one product I’ll never replace. It’s become a staple in my routine, and I can’t imagine my skincare regimen without it. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for lasting hydration and healthier-looking skin!" —Amy

Get it from Amazon for $28.

Allergy info: This does contain nut products (like walnut seed extract). 

Promising reviews: "I LOVE THIS PRODUCT. I have acne and had so many scars and dark spots but THIS PRODUCT!! After about two days of using it, my skin looked soooo much better. A staple in my routine, and I have refilled twice now." —sllaks

"Ok I actually wish I took a before and after picture. I’m a couple of days in and I should mention I have super sensitive skin. Very prone to breakouts and rashes. My skin looks like plastic. My pores that are usually huge are almost nonexistent. I will recommend this miracle to everyone. Also didn’t bother my skin in the slightest" —jeanqueen75

Get it from Amazon or Sephora for $25+ (available in three sizes).