15 Best Korean Moisturizers For Achieving Spotless And Smooth Skin
If K-pop is your thing and Korean beauty is your wish, these are your must-haves.
Shawnda DorantesMSN, APRN, FNP-C
Expertise: Skin Care & Injectables
Shawnda Dorantes, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, is the founder and Master Injector at Beauty Lounge Medical Spa. She has 15 years of experience in the beauty industry and 13 years as a registered nurse.Dorantes began her career as a Beauty Advisor for ... more
Oyendrila Kanjilal Certified Skin Care Coach
Expertise: Skin Care & Hair Care
Experience: 2 years
Oyendrila holds a master's degree in English Literature from the University Of Calcutta, West Bengal, and is a certified skin care coach. As a beauty and lifestyle writer with two years of experience,... more
Shiboli ChakrabortiCertified Skin Care Coach
Expertise: Skin Care & Hair Care
Experience: 4 years
Shiboli 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 edito... more
Image: Shutterstock
A good moisturizer is highly essential for achieving spotless and smooth skin, especially within the realm of Korean skin care. Recently, Korean moisturizers have been a rage in the skin care circles, which brings us to the question — which is the best Korean moisturizer? Most Korean moisturizers use skin-friendly ingredients suitable for various skin types, including those with sensitive skin, and offer the best hydration to improve skin texture.
According to a study, K-beauty products contain the highest quality anti-aging and skin-brightening properties that make the skin look youthful (1).
In this article, we have shortlisted the 15 most popular and effective Korean moisturizers you must try. Check them out!
In This Article
15 Best Korean Moisturizers
1. Best Rated: SeoulCeuticals Korean Skincare Snail Repair Cream
Image: Seoul Ceuticals The SeoulCeuticals Korean Skincare Snail Repair Cream is a standout Korean skincare product designed to restore youthful radiance and keep the skin hydrated. It is formulated with a higher concentration (97.5%) of snail mucin extract, a humectant-rich formula containing hyaluronic acid that seals moisture. It has antibacterial properties that fight against acne-causing bacteria. Snail mucin extract contains allantoin, which is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. This antioxidant cream can help to reduce inflammation and redness in the skin, making it a great ingredient for people with sensitive or acne-prone skin. The glycollic acid in the snail mucin provides gentle exfoliation, unclogs the pores, and absorbs excess oil for clean, supple skin.
This snail repair cream is also infused with 72% organic shea butter, aloe, jojoba oil, and vitamin E which offers an excellent humidification base to your skin. The fatty acids present in the natural botanical extracts offer a protective shield and build the skin’s natural oil barrier. This natural moisturizing cream corrects dark spots and blurs the signs of premature aging. This is a wonderful cream that offers visible results within days of regular use.
Key Ingredients: High concentration of snail mucin extract
Pros
- Non-comedogenic
- Moisture-locking
- Skin replenishing
- Naturally antibacterial
- Cruelty-free
- Non-GMO
- 97% natural
- 72% organic botanical extracts
- Reduces wrinkles and dark circles
- Corrects dark spots
Cons
- May cause allergic reactions
- Thick, greasy consistency
2. Best For Acne-Prone Skin: Cosrx Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion
Image: Cosrx The Cosrx Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion is a daily moisturizer containing 70% birch sap (or willow bark water). Willow bark water contains salicylic acid, which is a natural exfoliant that can help to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores. This can help to reduce the appearance of acne, blackheads, and other blemishes. This ingredient can calm and soothe irritated skin. The product also contains natural salicylic acid, a versatile ingredient that has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It helps clear pores and alleviates acne and irritation.
This skin-friendly product is packed with 11 amino acids and antioxidants that calm, treat, and nourish irritated skin. The lotion gets quickly absorbed into the skin without leaving any greasy residue, ensuring both hydrated skin and a balanced oil level. This delicate equilibrium of moisture and oil, coupled with the product’s anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, helps you achieve fresh, soft, supple, and nourished skin.
Note: It contains tea tree oil; if you are allergic to it, avoid application.
Key Ingredients: Willow bark water
Pros
- Hypoallergenic
- Non-greasy
- No greasy residue
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
- Dermatologist-tested
- Penetrates deep into the skin
- Whole-day moisturizer
- Lightweight
- Oil-free
- Gets absorbed quickly
- pH-balanced formula
- Suitable for blemish-prone skin
Cons
None
Pro Tip3. belif The True Cream – Moisturizing Bomb
Image: Belif The belifMoisturizing Bomb has a whipped cream-like texture that offers lasting hydration for up to 26 hours. It is loaded with botanical extracts and feels extremely soothing and comfortable on the skin. It is designed to cater to various skin conditions, including oily skin types, and offers a comfortable experience upon application. The main ingredient in the cream is comfrey leaf extract which reduces inflammation and offers intense hydration to keep the skin healthy. It also improves skin firmness and elasticity. It is a beloved product from a trusted Korean skincare brand and is an ideal choice for those seeking lasting hydration and radiant skin.
Key Ingredients: Comfrey leaf extract
Pros
- Skin soothing and plumping
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Dermatologist-tested
- No mineral oil
- No synthetic chemicals
- Petroleum-free
- Cruelty-free
- Clinically tested
- No added chemical formula
- Fragrance-free
Cons
None
Pro Tip| Best Rated  | Best For Acne-Prone Skin | belif The True Cream | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Name | SeoulCeuticals Korean Skincare Snail Repair Cream | Cosrx Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion | Moisturizing Bomb |
| Dimensions | 2.5 x 2.5 x 2 inches | - | 2.01 x 2.13 x 6.02 inches |
| Weight | 2 Ounces | - | 6 Ounces. |
| Skin Type | - | All | - |
| Dimensions | - | 6.3 x 2.76 x 2.76 inches; 6 Ounces | - |
| Rating* | 4.2 | 4.5 | 4.6 |
| Reviews | 15,442 | 3,751 | 2,202 |
| Price | $20.0 | $22.96 | $22 |
| Buy Now | Buy Now | Buy Now |
4. RNW DER: SPECIAL Ceramide Cream
Image: Rnw Der The RNW DER. SPECIAL Ceramide Cream is a facial moisturizer cream containing five ceramides and three layers of hyaluronic acid that help the skin retain moisture, stay hydrated, prevent the loss of firmness, and maintain the skin’s health. With its lightweight hydration and multi-layered formulation, this cream targets a range of skin concerns and promotes radiant, glass-like skin. Ceramides are natural lipids or fats that are found in the outermost layer of the skin. They play an important role in maintaining the skin’s barrier function and keeping it hydrated. This multi-pronged approach helps combat the impact of environmental stressors, ensuring the skin remains hydrated, firm, and resilient against external challenges. It also contains meadowfoam seed oil, Oligopeptide-1, and D-panthenol that gently moisturize and soothe the skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles to reveal smoother-looking, youthful skin. The lightweight and dermatologist-tested formula gets easily absorbed into the skin, replenishes it, restores the skin’s health, and reveals a dewy complexion.
Key Ingredients: Ceramides, Hyaluronic Acid
Pros
• 9-free formula
• Lightweight
• Hypoallergenic
• Gets easily absorbed
• Suitable for sensitive, troubled, and dry skin types
• Dermatologically tested
Cons
None
5. Best All-In-One Moisturizing Cream: 2B Beautiful Anti-Aging Snail Repair Cream
The 2B Beautiful Anti-Aging Snail Repair Cream is formulated with 92% snail extract that renews the skin, reduces wrinkles, and makes skin supple. The snail mucus is rich in hyaluronic acid, a humectant that hydrates the skin. The snail extract is also claimed to smoothen creases and wrinkles and reduce acne breakouts. It has antibacterial effects that fight against acne-producing bacteria. This anti-aging ingredient also promotes elastin and collagen production for a clearer skin tone and texture.
This multi-functional skin moisturizer is also infused with Panax ginseng and other botanical extracts that restore youthful skin radiance and glow. The Panax ginseng root extract boosts skin hydration, repairs uneven skin tone, and reduces wrinkles by firming the skin. This Korean beauty product is an ideal choice for individuals with dull skin that are in dire need of revitalization. This remarkable facial cream is suitable for both men and women, seeking an all-in-one cream to address a range of skin concerns.
Key Ingredients: 92% snail mucus extract
Pros
- Radiance-boosting
- Non-greasy
- Quick-absorbing
- Natural organic ingredients
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- No artificial colors added
- Sulfate-free
- Fast absorbing cream
- Suitable for all skin types
- Non-GMO
- Cruelty-free
- Suitable for both men and women
- Helps reverse wrinkles
- Increases skin elasticity
- pH balancing
- Regenerates skin
Cons
None
6. Luminositie Skincare Collagen Boosting Cream
The Luminositie Skincare Collagen Boosting Cream is infused with snail mucin extract that fights the signs of aging. The snail mucin acts as an antimicrobial that halts the growth of microbes, clears out the pores, and helps prevent acne development. It is rich in elastin, a protein that firms and tightens the skin and helps repair the body’s tissues. This snail repair cream contains glycolic acid, a gentle exfoliator that buffs away dead skin and moisturizes it. It calms irritated skin and reduces breakouts. The antioxidants infused in this lightweight moisturizer remove toxic substances and protect the skin cells from free radicals. Additionally, it is best recommended to conduct a patch test on a small skin area to keep future skin irritation at bay.
Key Ingredients: Snail mucus
Pros
- Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
- Minimizes pores
- Restores healthier and youthful glow
- Offers skin barrier protection
- Tightens pores
- Lightweight texture
- All-day hydration
- Regenerates skin cells
- All-natural ingredients
- Paraben-free
- 100% organic
Cons
- Strong smell
7. Best For Dry Skin: Wonjin Effect Water Bomb Cream
The Wonjin Effect Water Bomb Cream is a dermatologist-recommended product that intensifies skin with blasts of water. The Wonjin hydro-technology recovers and refreshes dry, dehydrated, and flaky skin. It delivers moisture deep into the skin and seals it. The cream contains Jeju green complex, Jeju mineral water, Jeju green tea, Jeju honey, Jeju camellia oil, and Jeju gardenia seeds that deeply moisturize the skin and leave it clean and smooth. The 8 complexes in the cream, including the Jeju oxygenated water, aloe vera, marine collagen, oatmeal, brown algae, kelp, bamboo water, and hyaluronic acid improve skin tone, maintain skin elasticity, and promote skin recovery.
Key Ingredients: Wonjin hydro-technology,Jeju green complex, 8 waterful complexes
Pros
- Cleans and detoxifies skin
- Promotes skin recovery
- Quickly absorbs into the skin
- Offers moisture retention
- Smooth as water
- Improves skin elasticity
- Skin softening
- Refreshes skin
Cons
- May cause allergic reactions
8. I Dew Care Say You Dew Vitamin C-Rich Moisturizing Cream
I Dew Care Say You Dew Vitamin C-Rich Moisturizing Cream is a dual-layered formula that helps hydrate, nourish, and rejuvenate the skin. It is infused with lemon extract, a vitamin C booster, and banana extract that restore skin radiance. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant and serves as a primary ingredient to protect the skin. It is one of the key ingredients needed for collagen formation. The lemon extract prevents the appearance of skin imperfections and skin aging. The banana extract is rich in potassium and moisture. The product hydrates and moisturizes the skin leaving it supple, soft, and smooth.
Key Ingredients: Vitamin C, lemon extract, banana extract
Pros
- Good for skin rejuvenation
- Antioxidant-rich
- Non-irritating
- Skin smoothing
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Free from phthalates, formaldehyde
- Toxic chemical-free
- Protects the skin from environmental aggressors
- Blurs the signs of aging
- 100% vegan formula
- Safe for all skin types
Cons
- Consistency could be too watery
9. Prettian Moisturizing Snail Cream
The Prettian Moisturizing Snail Cream offers a powerful addition to your skincare routine, effectively targeting aging symptoms, and moisturizing dry, dehydrated skin. The smooth, creamy gel is infused with snail mucus extract, a powerful ingredient, that is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. It adds life to dull, flaky skin. This all-in-one powerful nourishing gel is formulated with aloe leaf extract, adenosine, macadamia seed oil, citrus fruit extract, and organic shea butter for healthy and resilient skin. Its creamy texture and thoughtful formulation make it an ideal choice for individuals seeking to restore radiance and combat inflamed skin concerns.
Key Ingredients: Snail mucus, aloe leaf extract
Pros
- Blurs wrinkles
- Absorbs quickly
- A refreshing feeling
- Penetrates deep into the skin
- Improves skin shine and elasticity
Cons
None
10. PuclairRevitalizing Snail Cream
The PuclairRevitalizing Snail Cream is enriched with high-quality ingredients that provide a protective barrier that seals skin moisture. It contains 97.5% snail mucin, renowned for its gentle formula that acts as a moisturizer and a collagen booster. It is a trusted K-beauty ingredient that protects the skin from chemical and environmental aggressors, including sun damage. It also triggers the growth of new cells and collagen for younger-looking skin.
One of the key ingredients of the snail mucin is allantoin, known for its healing properties that effectively calm skin irritation, smoothen skin, and stimulates skin cell regeneration. It is loaded with vitamins and minerals that boost skin radiance and promote healthy cell turnover. This ultra-lightweight moisturizer absorbs quickly into the skin and leaves it feeling soft and healthier. Massaging the cream on the skin promotes blood circulation, improves skin elasticity, and smoothens rough skin.
Key Ingredients: Snail mucin
Pros
- Absorbs quickly
- Anti-wrinkle function
- Enhances skin elasticity
- Blurs the signs of aging
- Protects the skin from environmental stress
Cons
None
11. be Flat Hydro Youth Moisturizer
The be Flat Hydro Youth Moisturizer boasts a light texture, providing a delicate balance between hydration without leaving a white cast. It is infused with flower and herb extracts for a smoother skin tone. It contains oleic acid and glycerin that offer a hydrating finish suitable for various skin types, including acne-prone or dry skin. The cabbage extract is rich in vitamins B and C enhancing skin metabolism and calming irritation. The beta-carotene in the product helps fight aging signs and brightens skin tone. The chamomile extract improves skin resilience by boosting the formation of collagen and natural hyaluronic acid. However, invest in this product after testing it on your skin beforehand to ensure safe use.
Key Ingredients: Flower extracts and essential oils
Pros
- Lightweight
- Non-greasy
- Infused with 100% natural ingredients
- Firms and tones the skin
- cGMP-certified
- Cruelty-free
- Suitable for all skin types
- Boosts skin healing
Cons
None
12. meebak Cica Cream Age-Repair Moisturizer
Image: Meebak The meebak Cica Cream Age Repair Moisturizer, a product from a trusted Korean brand, harnesses the power of active ingredients like cica (centella asiatica) to deliver a comprehensive range of benefits for various skin types. It contains madecassoside, Dioscorea Japonica root, retinol, peptides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide that reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Cica even tones your skin and boosts collagen production. Retinol helps eliminate dark spots and signs of aging. Hyaluronic acid plumps the skin, and Dioscorea Japonica root treats inflammation. The rich formula also helps nourish and soothe damaged skin. Whether you’re seeking anti-aging benefits or enhancing the health of dull skin, this Korean snail mucin moisturizer is designed to cater to a wide range of skin types and meet a multitude of skin concerns.
Key Ingredients: Centella Asiatica
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Phthalate-free
- Non-toxic
Cons
None
13. Maroa Aqua Bomb Intense Luminator
The Maroa Aqua Bomb Intense Luminator features a hydrating formula, infused with 10 rejuvenating and clinically-tested herbal extracts that improve skin radiance and restore its youthful glow. The product contains meadowfoam seed oil, a natural and gentle ingredient that protects the skin from cellular damage. The meadowfoam seed oil contains myristic acid that has anti-inflammatory properties that soothe irritated skin and protect it from environmental damage. It deeply nourishes the skin, promotes skin firmness, regulates oil production, and improves skin elasticity. It is a clinically proven formula that is suitable for dry, combination, sensitive, and oily skin. Also, make sure it is tested on a small skin area before applying on a larger portion to steer clear of allergic reactions.
Key Ingredients: Meadow foam seed oil
Pros
- Clinically-tested
- Deeply nourishes the skin
- Improves skin elasticity
- Suitable for all skin types
- A boon to aging skin
- Leaves a dewy finish
Cons
None
14. Best Dual Formulation: Neogen Vita Duo Joan Day And Night Cream
Image: Neogenlab The Neogen Vita Duo Joan Day And Night Cream is a dual cream system that deeply hydrates and soothes skin. This Korean skincare product stands out as an excellent choice for achieving glowing skin with its well-crafted day and night formulations. The Joan day cream contains anti-inflammatory ingredients such as green tea and vitamin C that revitalize skin and protect it from cellular damage. Green tea is a calming, antioxidative, and skin-purifying ingredient that protects and comforts the skin. Vitamin C boosts collagen formation and improves skin elasticity, effectively aiding in skin regeneration and diminishing the appearance of wrinkles.
The Joan night cream is infused with a natural extract of lavender and vitamin E that refresh and rejuvenate the skin for the long night hours. Lavender is a soothing ingredient that reduces skin acne, lightens skin, and fades wrinkles. The rejuvenating aroma refreshes the mind and uplifts mood. Vitamin E strengthens the skin barrier and promotes healthy skin. It also is a potent antioxidant that protects the skin from photodamage. This combination works in harmony while addressing various skin issues including mature skin concerns.
Key Ingredients: Green tea, lavender extract, vitamins C and E
Pros
- Lightweight
- Dual nourishing formula
- Brightens skin tone
- Protects the skin from toxins
- Soothes and hydrates all night long
- Paraben-free
- Free from artificial fragrances and colors
Cons
None
15. Best Anti-Aging Formula: Nella Ultra Moisture Snail Cream
The Nella Ultra Moisture Snail Cream is infused with rich snail mucin and honey that provide deep nourishment to the skin and regenerate it. The rich, creamy formula enriched with snail extract works like a miracle on aging symptoms by reducing fine lines and wrinkles. It also enhances skin elasticity and resilience and seals skin hydration. The snail extract is a natural activator that stimulates the production of collagen and elastin and helps heal damaged aging skin. The infusion of honey, shea butter, macadamia nut seed oil, vitamin E, adenosine, and hyaluronic acid brings multifaceted benefits. These ingredients, acting as effective humectants, impart deep hydration, regeneration, and skin-softening properties.
Key Ingredients: Snail mucin extract
Pros
- All-in-one formulation
- Reduces dryness
- Fades fine lines and wrinkles
- Tones the skin
- Stimulates collagen synthesis
- Protects the skin from aggressors
Cons
- Not suitable for sensitive skin
These are the top 15 Korean moisturizers for all skin types. In the following section, we will see why you need to pick a Korean moisturizer in the first place.
Why Choose A Korean Moisturizer?
Korean skincare moisturizers are infused with natural ingredients that protect the skin from damage. The main USP of any Korean skincare moisturizer is snail mucin. This mucin fades scars, blurs aging signs, and treats hyperpigmentation while nourishing the skin. Korean moisturizers are pocket-friendly and provide intense hydration, which is a key factor in any skincare regime.
If you want to protect and nourish your skin, always use a moisturizer that is made specifically for your skin type. There are certain points you need to remember before picking a moisturizing product for your skin. Check them out below.
How To Pick The Best Korean Moisturizer For Your Skin Type
- If you have dry skin, you will need something that provides intense hydration. Check for products that contain butter (shea or cocoa), hyaluronic acid, and lanolin.
- If you have oily skin, avoid oil-based moisturizers. Opt for oil-free creams. Look out for ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and glycerin. These will keep your skin moisturized without producing excess oil.
- If you have combination skin, picking the right product can be tricky as you have both dry and oily areas on your face. Having a combination skin type requires thoughtful consideration when selecting skincare products. You can choose a lightweight and gel-based moisturizer for an overall moisturizing effect. Use creams meant for dry skin only on the dry areas of your face.
- If you have sensitive skin, choose moisturizers that are hypoallergenic, have a non-greasy finish, and are free from artificial colors and fragrances. Check for products that contain aloe vera and chamomile – these help soothe sensitive skin.
- If you have normal skin, you can pick any non-sticky moisturizing cream that feels comfortable on your skin.
- Ingredients: Choose ingredients that are 100% natural, vegan, and skin-friendly. Some of the natural ingredients are baobab oil, birch sap, aloe vera, oatmeal, and green tea that soothe, protect, and nourish the skin. The product must also be free from chemical ingredients. Also, you can try investing in professional-grade products with skin-loving ingredients for safe and effective use.
- The product should fit your budget.
The Bottom Line
Exposure to the sun and dry and cold winds causes your skin to lose moisture, making it dry. The moisture loss might also accelerate aging signs. So, your skin needs special love and care to prevent dryness and wrinkles. Thus, investing in moisturizers that protect the skin barriers to prevent moisture loss can be your best bet. Korean moisturizers are way ahead of their counterparts, as they are infused with the extracts of snail mucin to help hydrate the skin. The SeoulCeuticals Korean Skincare Snail Repair Cream uses snail mucin to promote skin rejuvenation. For lightweight use for oily skin, we recommend the Cosrx Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion. Further, the SPECIAL RNW DER Ceramide Cream strengthens the skin’s natural barrier. In addition, some of them have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties to clear the pores and prevent acne breakouts. For the best results, you can opt for professional-grade or skin-soothing moisturizers. However, avoid moisturizers that might trigger any allergies (if you have sensitive skin). Also, you can check out a few reviews or product videos from different reviewers to gain better clarity on the formulations.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Oyendrila Kanjilal is a certified skin care coach who recognizes that K-beauty is making its way into everyone’s beauty regime. She can help you narrow down your search for the right moisturizers to help you maximize these products. She has meticulously researched Korean moisturizers and examined online reviews to find the best ones. These moisturizers contain snail mucin, which fades scars, diminishes signs of aging, and combats hyperpigmentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Korean moisturizer is best for eyelids and under-eyes?
The belif The True Cream – Moisturizing Bomb offers long-lasting hydration and is very soothing and comfortable for the eyelids and under-eyes.
Is Korean moisturizer shiny on purpose?
Yes, most Korean moisturizers are slightly shiny because they impart a dewy finish to your natural skin tone.
Which Korean moisturizer is best for summer?
The Cosrx Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion is the best for summer. It is extremely lightweight, gets easily absorbed, and leaves the skin soft, supple, and nourished.
When do we use Korean moisturizer for best results?
Use Korean moisturizers twice daily as the fourth step in your skin care routine after double cleansing and applying toner and serum.
What products go well with a Korean moisturizer?
Skin serums, essences, and hydrating or pore-tightening toners go well with a Korean moisturizer.
Sources
- Quay, Ellinor R et al. “Evidence for Anti-Aging South Korean Cosmeceuticals.” Journal of drugs in dermatology : JDD vol. 16,4 (2017): 358-363.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28403270/
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