19 Best Korean Skincare Products For Acne In 2023

Dealing with and treating acne is tricky. Therefore, you should be patient and cautious while choosing what goes on your skin. Some of the best Korean skincare products for acne will make your choice easy. These products are known for their minimal ingredients, yet they are highly effective in dealing with skin issues. In this article, you can get more information on Korean skincare for acne-prone skin. Scroll down to know more and select the acne-fighting Korean skincare product which best suits your skin.

19 Best Korean Skin Care Products For Acne

1. Best For All Skin Types: Dots for Spots Pimple Patches- To Pull Out The Gunk Of Your Acne

4.2

Image: Dots For Spots

BUY ON AMAZON | $7.28

The Dots for Spots Pimple Patches are ultra-thin, translucent hydrocolloid patches infused with salicylic acid that gently pulls out the impurities from your acne. Just wear it for 6+ hours and see visible results for yourself. The patches have tapered edges that seamlessly blend with your skin. They can tackle itchiness and redness and help minimize pimple scars. These pimple patches are vegan and free of chemical irritants. They act as a protective barrier on your acne and prevent you from picking them. Tap on this video to check out an honest review about the product on YouTube.

Pros

• Non-irritating
• Translucent
• Vegan
• Cruelty-free
• Sulfate-free
• Paraben-free
• Alcohol-free
• Phthalate-free
• Fragrance-free

Cons

• May not stick easily

Pro Tip

Wash your skin with a gentle cleanser and pat dry it. Ensure your pimples and acne are completely dry before applying the patches for better adhesion.

Why It’s Worth Buying: It has received over 34,676 rave reviews on Amazon, proving it is a mass favorite.

2. Best Antioxidant-Rich:  Seoul Cuticles Day Glow Serum- To Moisturize Your Skin And Prevent Breakouts

4.2

Image: Seoulceuticals

BUY ON AMAZON | $17.0

The Seoul Cuticles Day Glow Serum helps prevent breakouts and diminish the appearance of acne scars. It is a potent blend of 20% vitamin C, ferulic acid, vitamin E, and hyaluronic acid that moisturize the skin and protect it against environmental stressors. The non-sticky formula delays the aging process of your skin and reverses sun damage. It absorbs quickly into your skin and boosts its radiance while showing visible results within 3 weeks of daily use.

Pros

• Suitable for daily use
• Suitable for all skin types
• Non-sticky
• Absorbs quickly
• Anti-aging
• Paraben-free
• Sulfate-free
• Cruelty-free
• Vegan

Cons

• Watery consistency

Why It’s Worth Buying: The product has more than 20,329 reviews on Amazon claiming its efficacy.

3. Best Toxin-free: IUNIK Centella Calming Daily Sunscreen- To Shield Your Skin Against UV Damage

4.4

Image: Iunik

BUY ON AMAZON | $16.99

The IUNIK Centella Calming Daily Sunscreen is packed with skin-friendly ingredients like beta-Glucan which moisturizes the skin and Centella Asiatica which treats inflammation. It also contains adenosine which boosts the collagen production of your skin and niacinamide which soothes inflamed skin and fades hyperpigmented spots. The soft-gel formula glides seamlessly on your skin and absorbs quickly without leaving any greasy residue. This reef-safe formula is powered with SPF 50 that provides broad-spectrum protection to your skin against UVA and UVB rays. It leaves no white cast and is suitable for wear under makeup. The best part about this sunscreen is that it is safe for all skin types.

Pros

• Suitable for all skin types
• Clinically-tested
• Lightweight
• Absorbs quickly
• Reef-safe
• Gel texture
• No white cast
• Non-greasy
• Cruelty-free
• Vegan
• Sulfate-free
• Paraben-free
• Ethanol-free
• Talc-free
• Mineral oil-free
• Silicone-free
• Paraffin-free

Cons

• May pill

Pro Tip

Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before stepping out in the sun to allow the product to set properly on the skin for better UV protection. This also prevents your skin from sweating profusely.

4. Best For All Skin Types: Heimish All Clean Balm – Oil Cleanser To Keep Your Skin Clear

4.6

Image: Axis-y

BUY ON AMAZON | $17.75

Koreans believe in double cleansing, and an oil cleanser is the first step in any Korean skincare regimen. This Korean acne cleansing oil has a solid cream-like consistency. It contains tea tree oil, which is an excellent Korean acne cream for acne-prone skin. This cleanser cleanses your skin thoroughly and clears the pores to fight acne. It also contains citrus oil that helps fade spots and marks and white flower complex that brightens your skin. It is the best Korean skincare for acne. Check out this video to know about the reviewer’s experience and the functions of this product.

Pros

• Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin
• Paraben-free
• No artificial colors
• No artificial fragrances

Cons

None

Remember

Always apply an oil cleanser on dry skin and use lukewarm water to wash it off.

5. Best Natural Formula: Neogen Dermalogy Green Tea Real Fresh Foam – A Gentle Cleanser For The Second Cleansing Step

4.5

Image: Dermalogy By Neogenlab

Now 20% Off

BUY ON AMAZON | $15.2

After cleansing your skin with an oil, you need to follow up with a gentle cleanser. This clinically-tested cleanser cleanses your skin thoroughly without irritating it. This Korean acne foam cleanser contains fermented green tea extracts and is loaded with antioxidants that soothe acne-prone skin. It does not contain any harsh cleansing agents. It is the best Korean acne face wash.

Pros

• Paraben-free
• Sulfate-free
• 99% natural ingredients
• Clinically tested

Cons

None

6. Best For Sun Spots: Dr. Song 10% Glycolic Acid Face Wash- To Exfoliate The Clogged Pores

4.1

Image: Dr Song

BUY ON AMAZON | $10.96

The Dr. Song 10% Glycolic Acid Face Wash exfoliates the skin and opens up the clogged pores. It is formulated with glycolic acid, purified water, and carbomer that clarify the skin and retexturize it. It stimulates collagen production, increasing the skin’s elasticity. The face wash also helps treat inflammation, reduce redness, and soothe irritation. This potent formula is also effective in fading sun spots and age spots. However, conduct a small test on a patch of your skin to avoid any potential reactions.

Pros

• Gentle
• Anti-inflammatory
• Non-irritating

Cons

• Does not lather well

7. Best For Hyperpigmentation: Peach Slices Snail Rescue Blemish Busting Toner- To Soothe Inflamed Skin And Diminish Aging Sign

4.5

Image: Peach Slices

BUY ON AMAZON | $13.88

The Peach Slices Snail Rescue Blemish Busting Toner is a dynamic blend of 95% snail mucin and cica. The power ingredient—snail mucin is antibacterial and helps in moisturizing the skin while minimizing dark spots, fine lines, and wrinkles. Cica has anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe the skin. The toner also contains hyaluronic acid that moisturizes the skin, boosts its elasticity, and fades scars and spots. It reverses dullness and evens out the skin tone.

Pros

• Safe for daily use
• Absorbs quickly
• Non-comedogenic
• Cruelty-free
• Alcohol-free
• Sulfate-free
• Fragrance-free
• Paraben-free
• Gluten-free

Cons

• May cause burning sensations in extremely sensitive skin

8. Best Skin-Brightening Formula: Axis-Y Dark Spot Correcting Glow Serum- To Revitalize Your Skin And Reduce Blemishes

4.6

Image: Axis-y

BUY ON AMAZON | $17.75

The Axis-Y Dark Spot Correcting Glow Serum targets a range of skin problems, from acne to hyperpigmentation. It is a lightweight formula that fades dark spots and evens out the skin tone. The serum is packed with squalene that shields the skin against damaging free radicals and allantoin that stimulates new cell production, resulting in smooth, radiant skin. The formula is also infused with rice bran, papaya, sea buckthorn, and calendula extracts that work together to restore your skin’s vitality by diminishing blemishes. The active ingredient, niacinamide reverses dullness and strengthens the natural barrier of your skin.

Pros

• Suitable for sensitive skin
• Lightweight
• A little goes a long way
• Does not leave a white cast

Cons

• Runny consistency

9. Best Fragrance-Free Formula: Cosrx BHA Blackhead Power Liquid – To Gently Exfoliate Your Skin And Pores

4.3

Now 39% Off

BUY ON AMAZON | $14.7

BHA exfoliants are excellent for acne-prone skin because they are gentle and effective. This product contains 4% BHA (betaine salicylate, a cousin of salicylic acid). This ingredient exfoliates the skin slowly and gently. Even long after the product has evaporated from your skin, the effect of the ingredient remains, and the exfoliation process continues. It also contains vitamin B5 and willow bark extracts that keep the skin hydrated. It is the best Korean acne treatment. Click here to check out a detailed personal review of this product.

Pros

• No artificial fragrance
• Paraben-free
• No artificial colors
• No phthalein and triethanolamine
• Dermatologist-tested

Cons

None

Pro Tip

This is a potent formulation that can make your skin photosensitive. So, make sure to use sunscreen while wearing it.

10. Best Soothing: A’PIEU Pure Block Daily Sun Cream EX- To Soothe Inflammation And Provide UV Protection

4.4

Image: A'pieu

BUY ON AMAZON | $11.0

The A’PIEU Pure Block Daily Sun Cream EX is a non-greasy formula that imparts a dewy finish. It applies easily to your skin without clogging your pores. The formula is enriched with aloe vera that soothes tired skin, eucalyptus extracts that treat and eliminate acne, and watermelon extracts that help moisturize the skin. The six flower extracts reverse dullness. The product is powered with SPF 50 which provides broad-spectrum UV protection. It gives a dewy finish to your skin and infuses it with a citrusy scent.

Pros

• Lightweight
• Suitable for all skin types
• Non-greasy
• No white cast
• Does not clog pores
• Dewy finish
• Broad-spectrum UV protection
• Citrusy fragrance

Cons

• Thick consistency

11. Best For pH Balance: Dear, Klairs Supple Preparation Facial Toner – To Soothe Your Skin And Balance The pH

4.6

Image: Klairs

Now 32% Off

BUY ON AMAZON | $14.92

BUY ON WALMART
Restoring the skin’s pH is crucial for acne-prone skin, so add this product to your Korean skincare routine for acne. It helps balance the skin, keep it calm, and prevent breakouts. This toner hydrates and soothes your skin post-cleansing. It contains aloe vera, licorice root, and Centella Asiatica extracts. It also contains wheat amino acids that help reduce inflammation and Phyto-Oligo that keeps the skin moisturized and prepares it for the next skincare step. It is the best Korean toner for acne-prone skin.

Pros

• Alcohol-free
• Paraben-free
• No artificial fragrances
• Colorant-free
• No harsh ingredients
• Cruelty-free

Cons

None

12. Best For Acne Scars: The Creme Shop What Acne? Hydrating & Healing Serum- To Promote Brighter Skin Tone By Eliminating Acne

4.4

Image: The Crème Shop

Now 14% Off

BUY ON AMAZON | $9.99

The Creme Shop What Acne? Hydrating & Healing Serum is enriched with glycolic acid that exfoliates the skin surface and vitamin C that helps fade acne scars and dark spots. The product effortlessly replenishes lost moisture in your skin and restores balance. When used regularly, it reverses dullness and promotes brighter and smoother skin.

Pros

• Evens out the skin
• Gentle
• Cruelty-free

Cons

• Takes time to show visible results

13. Best For Skin Elasticity: Cosrx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence – ToPrevent The Recurrence Of Acne

4.5

Image: Cosrx

BUY ON AMAZON | $18.3

This Korean acne essence by Cosrx contains 96.3% snail secretion filtrate (cruelty-free) that hydrates the skin intensely and repairs it to heal your acne. Its gentle formula prevents your skin from losing moisture. It also improves skin elasticity and offers visible results on consistent usage. It is the best Korean skincare routine for acne-prone skin. Click here to check out an honest reviewer’s experience with the product.

Pros

• Cruelty-free
• Paraben-free
• Phthalate-free
• Dermatologist-tested

Cons

• None

14. Best Hypoallergenic Formula: Dr.Jart+ Dermask Clearing Solution – To Combat Acne Inflammation

4.4

Image: Dr. Jart

BUY ON AMAZON | $17.99

Your troubled skin needs to be soothed, and nothing can perform this task better than a sheet mask. This sheet mask from Dr. Jart+ is developed for acne-prone skin. It helps soothe redness and irritation as it contains salicylic acid and tea tree oil. This Korean acne mask also contains niacinamide that helps control excess oil production and evens out your skin tone by reducing the appearance of blemishes and pigmentation. This face mask does not contain anything that can irritate your skin.

Pros

• Paraben-free
• Sulfate-free
• Phthalate-free
• No artificial fragrance or color
• Alcohol-free
• No mineral oil
• Triethanolamine-free
• No propylene glycol
• DEA-free
• Hypoallergenic

Cons

• None

15. Best Dermatologist-Tested: Cosrx AC Collection Blemish Spot Clearing Serum – To Deal With The Aftermath Of Acne

4.2

Now 19% Off

BUY ON AMAZON | $21.76

Cosrx claims that this is the ultimate serum to reduce the traces of acne. From dark spots to scars, it claims to clear every mark left behind by acne. The key ingredients of this Korean acne serum include Centella AC- Rx Complex (madecassic acid, asiaticoside, and Asiatic acid), niacinamide, ceramides, and propolis. These ingredients in this Korean acne scar treatment help maintain the skin barrier, fade dark spots, and improve collagen production. It is the best Korean product for acne. However, for safe and effective use, perform a patch test on your skin beforehand.

Pros

• Hypoallergenic
• Dermatologist-tested
• Paraben-free
• Cruelty-free
• Phthalate-free
• Alcohol-free

Cons

None

16. Best Chemical-Free Option: Benton Fermentation Eye Cream – To Keep The Eye Area Soft And Hydrated

4.4

Image: Benton

Now 65% Off

BUY ON AMAZON | $12.7

Fermented ingredients are the superheroes of K-beauty products. This eye cream contains fermented ingredients, such as Bifida ferment and Galactomyces ferment filtrate. These ingredients help repair skin damage. This eye cream is also enriched with hyaluronic acid, ceramides, aloe vera extracts, panthenol, and beta-glucans that keep the eye area plump and bright.

Pros

• No harmful chemicals
• Cruelty-free (PETA-certified)
• Dermatologist-tested
• Contains natural preservatives
• No artificial colors
• No artificial fragrance
• Paraben-free

Cons

None

17. Best Exfoliating Formula: Seoul Cuticles Ultra Glow Turmeric Face Cream- To Moisturize Your Dry Skin And Reverse Dullness

4.1

Image: Seoulceuticals

BUY ON AMAZON | $19

The Seoul Cuticles Ultra Glow Turmeric Face Cream is designed to give a radiant glow to your skin. It is infused with gentle exfoliants, like glycolic acid and salicylic acid that unclog your pores and eliminate dead skin cells. The hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, vitamin B5, and shea butter intensely hydrate your skin, boost its elasticity, and reverse dullness for effective and visible results. The active ingredient, turmeric brightens the skin tone, protects the skin against damaging free radicals, and diminishes wrinkles.

Pros

• Evens out the skin tone
• Soft texture
• Cruelty-free
• Vegan
• Paraben-free
• Gluten-free
• Fragrance-free

Cons

• May cause breakouts

18. Best In Botanical Extracts: Dear, Klairs Midnight Blue Calming Cream – To Soothe Your Skin And Strengthen Its Barrier

4.4

Image: Dearklairs

BUY ON AMAZON | $21.9

A good moisturizer soothes and nourishes inflamed skin. That is exactly what this product does. The Midnight Blue Cream by Dear, Klairs contains Centella Asiatica extract, which is effective in repairing damaged skin. This Korean anti-inflammatory acne product helps calm redness and skin irritation associated with acne and excessive sun exposure. This clinically-tested product is lightweight, and its blue color is due to a natural ingredient called Guaiazulene (derived from chamomile oil). It is the best Korean moisturizer for acne-prone skin.

Pros

• Paraben-free
• Phthalate-free
• Mineral oil-free
• Contains botanical extracts

Cons

None

Pro Tip

As the cream has a heavier consistency, only use it at night after using strong exfoliators to calm your skin.

19. Best Antioxidant Benefits: The Crème Shop Double Cleanse Daily Cleanser

4.1

Now 45% Off

BUY ON AMAZON | $10.5

The Crème Shop Double Cleanse Daily Cleanser is packed with potent antioxidants that help nourish the skin while removing dirt, oil, residue, and makeup. It provides an instant boost of hydration, reduces redness, and tightens pores, imparting a youthful glow to your skin. This Korean acne cleanser contains rose water, pomegranate, and lotus flowers that treat aging signs. Rosewater and lotus flowers soothe and even tone your skin, respectively. Pomegranate helps in cell regeneration and protects your skin from sun damage.

Pros

• Cruelty-free
• Paraben-free
• Dermatologist tested
• Pleasant fragrance

Cons

None

What To Look For In The Best Korean Skincare Products For Acne?

While acne has become quite the common occurrence, there is still a lot to learn about the right way to combat it. It starts with choosing the right product to properly address the kind of acne you have. Given below are a few things to consider before purchasing a Korean skin care product to treat your acne.

1. Acne Type

The treatments for acne differ with different acne types. Knowing the type of acne you have, plays a huge role in determining the right products for your skin. The different types of acne that occur on your skin are:

• Whiteheads (closed comedones):

Whiteheads occur when your pores get clogged due to dead skin and oil. Flesh bumps that appear to be closed on the skin surface are called whiteheads. Look for products with ingredients like sulfur, tea tree, retinoid, or benzoyl peroxide.

• Blackheads (open comedones):

Just like whiteheads, blackheads are stubborn non-inflammatory acne that appear when a pore gets clogged due to dead skin cells and sebum. Blackheads are characterized by a black top on the skin’s surface, where the top stays open while it is clogged on the inside. Choose ingredients like salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide to combat blackheads.

• Papules

When the dirt and sebum get pushed further deep into the skin, it causes redness and inflammation. It manifests in the form of papules, which are tiny red or pink bumps that become inflamed. The best active ingredients for oily skin are benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, while alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) are great for dry skin. Additionally, snail mucin is good for diminishing inflammation and redness.

• Pustules

Like, papules, pustules are also inflammatory acne, but with a top filled with pus. They are characterized by a yellow or whitehead surrounded with a red ring. The best ingredients for pustules include azelaic acid, adapalene, alpha hydroxy acids, and salicylic acid.

• Fungal Acne

Found mostly on the forehead, this type of acne appears due to the presence of yeast in the hair follicles. Ingredients like tea tree oil, ketoconazole, and salicylic acid are the best options to treat fungal acne.

• Cystic Acne

Cystic acne is the most severe form of acne, characterized by big pus-filled and painful red bumps. The best active ingredients for these include salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, azelaic acid, and retinoids. Combine these active ingredients with ceramides to protect your skin barrier.

2. Skin Type

Skin type definitely comes into play when deciding the right acne treatment to use. Drier skin types can opt for Korean acne toners and serums with alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), while salicylic acid, retinoids, and benzoyl peroxide work best for combination to oily skin.

3. Formulation

Ideally, formulas having anti-acne ingredients with barrier-building ingredients target acne and heal your overall skin in the process, thereby preventing future breakouts.

When you have acne-prone skin, you need to use just the right products and ingredients to prevent it from flaring up. You need to stick to a particular skincare routine for at least a month to figure out whether it is working for your skin or not. However, if you have cystic or hormonal acne, it is better to consult a dermatologist and use products and medications suggested by them. For the best results, it is best to go for professional-grade products formulated with skin-soothing ingredients.

Do you use any Korean acne products that you swear by? Let us know in the comments section below!

Infographic: How To Select The Best Korean Skincare Products For Acne

Korean skincare products are well-known for their effective formulations. Using minimal ingredients, they target the areas affected by acne to help you achieve clear, healthy, and glowing skin. However, choosing the right Korean acne prevention products can be tricky. Check out the below infographic to know how you can select the best Korean skincare products for acne.

Save

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Save the high-quality PDF version on your device now.

Download Infographic

Why Trust StyleCraze?

The author, Shiboli Chakraborty, is a certified skin care coach. Since she experienced the acne woes herself, she became passionate about reading and writing about beauty products that effectively address this common yet annoying skin concern. Her in-depth research and knowledge give users an unbiased opinion about the best Korean anti-acne products on the market. Her list covers products ranging from cleansers to spot treatments made with safe ingredients to reduce pigmentation and add a youthful glow to the skin.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Korean skin care routine really work or help treat acne?

Yes, the Korean skin care routine is effective in treating acne. The skin care products manufactured in Korea contain calming and hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and green tea that soothe inflamed skin.

What do Korean skin care products for acne actually do?

Korean skin care products contain active ingredients that treat acne gradually and prevent scarring.
• Activated charcoal balances the sebum production of your skin and draws out the dirt from your pores.
• Salicylic acid gets rid of dead skin cells and prevents breakouts.
• Niacinamide prevents melanin production after the development of acne and reduces the chances of scarring.

What are some teenage Korean skin care products for acne-prone skin?

One good Korean skin care essential for acne-prone teenage skin is the Cosrx BHA Blackhead Power Liquid which contains 4% BHA that gently exfoliates dirt and grime from your face. The Dear, Klairs Supple Preparation Facial Toner is another great product that contains calming agents like aloe vera to soothe your skin post-cleansing and reduce inflammation.

What’s the best Korean product for acne caused by humidity?

The Dear, Klairs Supple Preparation Facial Toner is best for treating acne caused by humidity. It contains calming agents like aloe vera, and licorice root extracts that soothe your skin severely damaged by environmental aggression. Also, the phyto oligo slowly boosts the natural moisture of your skin.

Recommended Articles

• 7 Best Korean Rubber Face Masks To Try
• 10 Best Korean BB Creams To Try
• 10 Best Korean Sleeping Masks And Packs – Improve Your Skin While You Sleep
• 10 Best Korean Beauty Essences To Try 

Was this article helpful?

The following two tabs change content below.

• Reviewer
• Author
• Editor
• Fact-checker

Dr. Anna H. ChaconMD, FAAD

     

Dr. Anna Chacon is a board-certified dermatologist specializing in medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology with over 9 years of experience. She enjoys practicing all aspects of dermatology and is licensed to practice in 49 states. She is particularly interested in rural outreach and helping others in underserved areas obtain access to much-needed medical care.more

Shiboli ChakrabortiCommerce Editor

 

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 editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content. She loves reviewing skin care and hair care products and constantly endeavors to provide...more

Aditi NaskarAssociate Commerce Editor

Aditi Naskar has a postgraduate degree in English literature from Presidency University, Kolkata, a bachelor’s degree in education from WBUTTEPA, Kolkata, and a diploma in health and wellness. She is an associate commerce editor with 5 years of experience and specializes in reviewing fitness and health products. She has previously worked as a scriptwriter for an educational technology company and...more

Arshiya SyedaSenior Editor

Arshiya Syeda is a senior editor at StyleCraze with 7 years of experience. Prior to that, she was a content writer and combined her writing and research skills to write over 200 high-performing articles on hairstyles, hair care, and skin care. She holds a bachelor's degree in literature and psychology from Osmania University, Hyderabad, and a post-graduate diploma in psychological...more