Chemist Ranks Reddit's Top Asian Skincare Products

I put the top mentioned skincare products from /r/AsianBeauty on Reddit in a highly subjective tier list - again it turned into a bit of a rabbit hole...
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🧴 PRODUCTS (affiliate links)
Canmake Mermaid Skin Gel Uv Spf 50+ Pa++++ - Clear:go.shopmy.us/p...
Cosrx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence:go.shopmy.us/p...
Rohto Mentholatum Melano Cc Essence:go.shopmy.us/p...
Round Lab 1025 Dokdo Cleanser:go.shopmy.us/p...
Cosrx Low-Ph Good Morning Gel Cleanser:go.shopmy.us/p...
Cosrx Bha Blackhead Power Liquid:go.shopmy.us/p...
Heimish All Clean Green Foam:go.shopmy.us/p...
Rohto Mentholatum Hada Labo Gokujyun Super Hyaluronic Face Foam (Japan Version):go.shopmy.us/p...
Rohto Mentholatum Hada Labo Gokujyun Premium Lotion (2020 Edition):go.shopmy.us/p...
Illiyoon Ceramide Ato Concentrate Cream:go.shopmy.us/p...
Etude House Soon Jung 2x Barrier Intensive Cream:go.shopmy.us/p...
Etude House Soon Jung 10-Free Moist Emulsion:go.shopmy.us/p...
I'm From Rice Cream:go.shopmy.us/p...
I'm From Rice Toner:go.shopmy.us/p...
I'm From Mugwort Essence:go.shopmy.us/p...
Bioré Uv Aqua Rich Watery Essence Spf 50+ Pa++++:go.shopmy.us/p...
Kose Softymo Speedy Cleansing Oil:go.shopmy.us/p...
Pyunkang Yul Essence Toner:go.shopmy.us/p...
Kikumasamune High Moist Lotion:go.shopmy.us/p...
Cosrx Full Fit Propolis Synergy Toner:
Isntree Green Tea Fresh Toner:go.shopmy.us/p...
Laneige Cream Skin Toner & Moisturizer:go.shopmy.us/p...
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[@amandasjoberg463]

I can't be the only one bothered by the fact that red is at the top and green at the bottom😬

[@dr_seuss222]

really? all the tier lists are like that

[@daniellesebire2508]

I didn't even notice

[@Nick-kf3io]

Yes! It's bothered me for years now lol

[@QuercusAlba9]

And the “no opinion” should not be on the same color spectrum

[@anikajoy5739]

I see this so often!! Make it make sense ! 😵‍💫🥴

[@johnsskincarereviews]

The Isntree green tea toner is amazing for fighting inflammation and antioxidant protection but not for hydrating lol. I apply it first thing after cleansing and and it helps with calming and redness. It does help with pores over time too!

[@tomassusedik8154]

I have it in mist bottle and I spray it immediately after cleansing too. Too watery and not hydrating enough, I usually follow it up with Cosrx 96 snail essence. But I'm not always in the mood to put on two cleansers so... 😅

[@hurmaes]

How long does it take for you to see the difference in your pores from using it? My pores are my #1 insecurity 😭😭

[@johnsskincarereviews]

@@hurmaes id say probably after 3-4 weeks of consistent use!

[@hurmaes]

@@johnsskincarereviews thank you! I'll consider using this since I have large pores and am acne-prone 😊

[@tinybullfrog1955]

This is really helpful, because I am in need of a calming toner to alternate with more acidic, clarifying toner.

[@Sandreline]

Biore Watery Gel has been the only sunscreen that I've liked enough to consistently use every day.

[@LabMuffinBeautyScience]

I still need to try it - is your skin more oily or dry?

[@Sandreline]

​@@LabMuffinBeautyScience, my skin is more oily.

[@jbridges9574]

@LabMuffinBeautyScience It’s been my HG for at least 7 years and I have very dry skin and I have Rosacea. I try other things from time to time but I always come back to Biore. I use it in my body too.

[@debbyd5729]

I really wanted to like them but I found the scent of both the essence and gel off-putting. Instead, I use Skin Aqua in both gel and essence formulas. They doesn’t smell like anything to me.

[@Sandreline]

@@debbyd5729, yes, the smell and the alcohol can definitely be a turn off for some. I'm usually pretty sensitive to smells and it doesn't bother me.

[@plursocks]

I swear by the biore UV aqua rich sunscreen and I've tried the 2023 version. There's a different delivery system now and what looks like a much smaller container...but it's actually about the same size as the large bottle was and the new delivery system allows you to get every bit of the sunscreen and it produces less plastic waste. I wasn't sure about it at first, but I've grown to like it a lot.

[@adyarajan9188]

In today's era of so many skincare videos online Michele your authenticity and knowledge blows me away. Please make more such videos as I learn a lot about my skin .I love your videos girl!!

[@BelsaliasMarymaeh]

Michelle mentioning the lack of occlusives in Korean creams makes so much sense to me! I use the pyunkang yul intensive repair cream before I apply retinoid & just a few minutes later my skin feels super dried out. That's never happened with Western creams before

[@angelinebiswas7611]

You would like the round lab dokdo cream it’s sooo thick and has one of the better ingredients lists I’ve seen. Ceremides cholesterol and fatty acids and the ceramides actually sit at the top of the list. A better one that I find insanely occlusive is the Pyunkang Yul ATO blue label CREAM. it is worth every single penny especially in the winter with tretinoin

[@-l485]

i find that a bit of a 'whut' moment but i do realised that majority of western speaking k-skincare/beauty consumers aren't korean. most don't even actually scratch the surface of the items and brands that are actually great or well known in korea. 99.99% brands mentioned in western/english based youtube skincare promoting k-beauty vs actual korean skincare youtubers are totally different. like pyunkang yul for example, i have truly never seen it mentioned except in western based videos. And in the western speaking k-beauty realm, its always that same old few items and brands. /r/asianbeauty also are majorly filled with rec of products in that same sense. its unfortunate, but to really find gems from k-beauty, one have to understand korean because not enough of them cater to western speaking audience to put subtitles which is a shame.

[@freespiritdamsel]

You’re right, it has been hard to look for occlusive ones in terms of ingredients. So far, I can say the Beauty of Joseon dynasty cream, Isntree Yam cream, Tocobo multi-ceramide, im from rice cream are good

[@-l485]

@@freespiritdamsel have you tried aestura atobarrier 365 cream before? I want to recommend Yunjac whole plant effect essential cream (but its on the pricier side though) as well. I have combi skin but more on the dry side and using retinoid as well so that dries me out even further and aestura works great for me. Its occlusive and also calming and soothes even psoriasis

[@snatchthesnitch7935]

@@-l485 you're right! I follow Odile Monod (sorry if I misspelled her name) and it's totally a whole different story of Korean skincare!

[@mallowhoney]

Oh, I never really saw the snail mucin as an exotic/"oriental" gimmicky thing, it's just had a surprisingly strong effect on my skin over time. Scar repair, mostly. I had acne pitting become significantly less severe from using a snail mucin serum.

[@Bea-yg9od]

I unfortunately had an allergic reaction from it. Apparently the snail it’s not recommended for people who are allergic to dust mites, I need to research more about it.

[@videowatcher6246]

It's traditionally used in France as well. I watched video on a woman raising escargot snails for food and she put one on her face saying it's good and a traditional moisturizer.

[@Jordan-db2og]

​@@Bea-yg9od omg, my bf is allergic to dust mites and recently tried my snail essence and had to rinse it off because it was stinging

[@chesiresays]

The COSRX bha black head power liquid is a holy grail for me. I used to use the Paula’s choice 2% and while it did work I hated putting it on, it has more of a oily consistency, it would drip everywhere and it irritated my skin. The COSRX one gives me the same results without the irritation, the consistency is so much better and hydrating. It has a pump so I don’t struggle with spilling it everywhere and contaminating the product. I have combination skin and struggle with white heads, blackheads, sebaceous fillaments and millia so I Use a chemical exfoliant almost everyday.

[@shahdaryu]

Hey, I'm so glad to hear this cus I'm in a somewhat similar situation! I used to use the Paula's Choice exfoliator as well and it worked but was SO harsh. I recently switched to the COSRX one because it's way more affordable (less than half the price?!) and it's been doing okay, but I still get new pimples popping up. May I ask if you use anything alongside the COSRX BHA liquid to help with skin troubles? My blackheads have been pretty stubborn :(

[@shahdaryu]

@@pharen4108 hi!! Omg thank you, I've been using that some by mi toner alongside the cosrx stuff as well! Honestly I really like how it feels and smells. Ahh I should look into purging cus I never heard about it till I read these comments. I've been too scared to use the power liquid as of late, but I'll look into it more cus i do wanna give it a chance :')

[@Helterskelter803]

@@shahdaryu my skin used to be so oily with large clogged pores and acne prone , and now it’s completely acne free and no longer an oil spill (my bf’s word). What I did is for night routine use CosrX Salicylic acid gentle daily wash, then Niacinamide (the Ordinary brand ) , retinol (the ordinary brand) Cosrx Snail Essence , then your choice of eye cream and moisturizer . For day time I’d use Cosrx good morning cleanser, alternate Cosrx BHA and AHA liquid each day, wait 30 minutes, vitamin C serum (Tiam or Cosrx ), moisturizer then sunscreen . Oh and after washing face immediately apply Hadalabo lotion on DAMP SKIN . The routines sound like a lot , but it totally transformed my skin 😊

[@CaliberDawn]

@@Helterskelter803 u use the essence over ur retinol?

[@Helterskelter803]

@@CaliberDawn yes, I use retinol after the Hadalabo lotion, wait for a bit may be 10 minutes, then Niacinamide, followed with the snail essense and moisturizer. It's okay to change up the order since they have similar consistency. You should apply skincare by the watery first then thicker consistency after. I used to use retinol after Niacinamide since it was the type in squalane oil, but now I'm using the stronger retinol at 2% (also from The Ordinary) which isn't mixed in oil.

[@lauryn6037]

one thing I’d love to hear more about is how much Differin/Adapalene specifically differs from Tretinoin or other OTC retinols/retinals. I’m exclusively getting conflicting info on how likely Differin is to work for “anti aging”, sun damage, scarring and texture, some people say not at all and a retinal serum is better and others say it will work for all of those just not as quickly as Tret and it’s gonna be more effective than a retinal!! idk what to believe 😭

[@LabMuffinBeautyScience]

I think all the pharmaceutical retinoids probably work pretty similarly for all retinoid indications, IMO the main difference is just what it's been studied or approved to treat. There's a bit of talk about how they hit different receptors but I don't think the differences are large enough to make any of them not work at all for aging or acne or anything else.

[@lauryn6037]

@@LabMuffinBeautyScience omg thank you so much for actually responding!!

[@xursssulaxx]

differin helped my cystic acne. i now use a prescription version of it since i wanted a higher dose and higher doses only come in rx form. i love it and use it at night before my moisturizer. my skin looks thicker more plump and smooth.

[@kylieeeeep]

I bought something from this list, completely forgot about it, it came in the mail 800 years later, and now I have to go back and look up what you said about it😂❤

[@AliceintheRabbitHole]

Oh how I relate to feeling “meh” about toners that just hydrate, even when they do it well! I adored that Hada Labo when I had it, but the second I finished it I kind of forgot it’s existence…

[@LabMuffinBeautyScience]

Yeah we're spoiled with choice now! I have a lot of fondness for legacy HG products like the Hada Labo though, so I definitely ranked it higher than I would've for a newer product...

[@devdiya9615]

@@LabMuffinBeautyScience plz recommend a few

[@skateata1]

I bought 3 of the hadalabo lotion/toners. I got the premium ones. I like the gold one so far.

[@megtea]

@@LabMuffinBeautyScience would love to see a ranked toner/essence video

[@ZijnShayatanica]

I feel the same way! There are so many essences & serums that are formulated w/ humectants that it's like... Why bother? I might as well get my hydration AND stuff like exfoliating, calming, brightening, or antioxidant action. I use the COSRX 96% Snail Power Essence now, which DOES primarily moisturize, but it also keeps my skin bright & helps my moisturizer spread more evenly. I'm a fan!

[@lalalaurenshay]

I really like the Jung Soon Barrier Cream! It feels really comforting to the skin without being heavy. I live in a humid climate and have normal to slightly oily skin. I may have a different formulation though? Mine has a twist and lock, but the product flows through an outer circle, with no cross lines like the one in your photo.

[@Justaregularoldplumbus]

I love the soon jung 2x barrier cream so very much, and here’s why: 1. I agonized to find a noncomedogenic moisturizer that was a *cream* not a stupid gel or gel-cream. I have combination, acne prone skin. But I love heavy creams!! This definitely could be richer but it’s the nicest, one of the most moisturizing creams I’ve found without isopropyl myristate/palmitate or other pore cloggers. I really do feel the moisture lasts as well!! 2. At first I was like “WHY” about the airless pump twist cap, but once I got used to doing it, honestly it’s SOOO satisfying to swipe it off the flat surface. Like asmr. 3. This works for day or night! It’s milky silky and smooth under makeup and never pills like cerave, etc. It’s also *just barely* moisturizing enough to keep me quenched through the night. I’m open to trying other products but so far this one hits all the marks 4. Simple ingredients, but it does include some stuff my skin loves, like the madecassoside, green tea, panthenol, shea butter, and sunflower oil 5. Affordable / easily available on yesstyle or even amazon in a pinch. Cheaper than the Cetaphil Redness Relief night moisturizer, another favorite (but soon jung has a silkier texture!) 6. Minimal decently attractive packaging

[@annabelle007]

I also love it💜... What's your favourite sunscreen?

[@Justaregularoldplumbus]

@@annabelle007 beauty of Joseon!! So silkyyyy how bout you?

[@nancykerrigan]

​@@Justaregularoldplumbus which one of the beauty of joseon do you like?

[@Justaregularoldplumbus]

@@nancykerrigan there’s more than one BOJ sunscreen?? I’ve only tried the Relief Sun rice spf 50

[@harshiini_0937]

are you me coz the firsr point is spot on😂

[@ceresida]

Dr Michelle LabMuffin, here’s a question I’ve always wanted to ask you, but always forget: A couple of years ago, here in Sweden, where I live, the Public Service TV ran a short science documentary series about the cosmetics industry - the claims, the science, the ingredients & the biology/chemistry basics, studies & research review, their own very small ”study” with male & female subjects etc. There was an expert panel with professionals from the Swedish ”FDA”, chemists etc. Now to the point: the Dalton unit came up, of course. Then on to the peptides - what was interesting, is that some Chemistry PhD/associate professor in Life Science guy said, that although the peptide Dalton size is OK for penetration, he calculated that it would take like 10 years for the peptides to reach the cell entry point of interest - making the peptides useless as antiaging active. I thought WTF?! Ofcourse. I kid you not, that’s what I heard, or else I had the weirdest hearing hallucination ever. Any comments? Cheers!

[@sovrappensiero1]

This is so strange and I really hope she answers!!

[@sherryzmezzo]

I've heard the same thing, but I understand that fermenting peptides makes the molecules much smaller. I recently started using a fermented peptide essence. It's too soon to see results, but the experience of using it is lovely.

[@devdiya9615]

Woah

[@debbiewalker273]

@@sherryzmezzo Would you mind sharing the brand name of the Essence ? Thanks !

[@katarzynalewandowska5944]

What is the name of the essence please?

[@amberdaisuki8733]

Being a former obsessed lurker of r/AB from 2014-2019, this was really fun to watch and see all the recs as it really hasn't changed much there haha! For a data point on Etude House Soon Jung 2x Barrier Intensive Cream, I use it and it does a great job for me all year round: My skin: Dehydrated, very sensitive, and prone to acne. Climate: northeast US so very dry in the winter, and humid in the summer but it works for me with each season. I use it at night with a routine of double cleansing (micellar water & milky cleanser), light toner, mugwort essence (shoutout to Im from mugwort!), and soon jung on top of it all. Moisturizers that have worked for me in the past were: Goodal Premium Snail Tone-Up Cream, Mizon Black Snail All In One Cream -- so more lightweight stuff works considering I like layering

[@spicypisces111]

I also use the mugwort essence and soon jung and have similar skin type! I feel like the soon jung is nice hydration but it isn't extremely hydrating as I'd like

[@blee8607]

I loved the Soon Jung 2x barrier cream. I have dry skin and like it both in summer and winter. For me, it just sinks into my skin and absorbs very well, so I'm surprised to hear that it sits on your skin. I guess we all have different skin types :)

[@rivkab3525]

I use it too and love it also. Ive also got dry skin

[@lisaisa]

same, i have dry sensitive skin & i'm enjoying it so far

[@Thefemininewithinsharika]

She mentioned she has oily skin in another video !

[@JinMeowsoon]

Same I have very dry skin due to Sicca Syndrome and so far it’s the only moisturiser I’ve tried that prevents dry skin eczema. I’ve tried expensive dry skin lines from LaNeige, Clinique etc. It’s as moisturising as a serum to me. I use the Soon Jung Intensive cream twice a day and mix it with Squalane (The Ordinary) in Winter.

[@floran3098]

Dry skin too. Its the only moisturizer i expect no breakouts from too

[@scarlettblythe]

I'm one of those who loves the Soon Jung 2x Barrier Cream. But we also have *very* different skin types. 1. I have extremely sensitive skin, easily irritated even by tap water. I have chronic eczema, too, the kind that I have to regularly treat with zero therapy. So I love this cream primarily because it has never caused irritation - if I can't use something due to irritation it doesn't matter how fabulous it is in other ways. 2. My cheeks are extremely dry. I tend to only use this over my butterfly zone, especially because I'm a nurse and that's the area I get mask chafe and eczema from masks with specific chemical treatments (not in a "natural products only" way just some antiseptics and disinfectants are more irritating than others and I'm certain many cheaper N95s aren't choosing that based on my specific skin sensitivities). 3. I live in a much drier climate than Sydney! I especially like this when I'm in Adelaide or inland Victoria where it's very dry. Also of note: the water in Adelaide and inland is much harder than East Coast metro tap water, and hard water gives me eczema. I find this especially good when I'm in California with the famously hard US tap water irritating my skin.

[@Cloverlovee]

As someone with very sensitive and dry skin, I absolutely love the soon jung line. I’ve never had any problems with any of the products I’ve tried including the barrier cream. A lot of products cause rashes on my cheeks, and irritate my skin but I absolutely adore their line. If you have a similar skin type, I highly recommend!

[@thewolfstarfire]

Can I say that I appreciate you listed what type of skin you have! It’s so important but so many ppl skip over it! I think probably 50% of ppl do it b/c they wanna push products and 50% do it because they don’t really know. I need more ppl to be transparent like that!

[@SarahColledge]

There are actually three versions of the Canmake sunscreen. The clear (original) one has a pink label on the front, there are also white and green labelled versions (mineral and colour correcting, respectively). The original is very nice and doesn't leave a white cast on me although I'm a Fitzpatrick type 2.

[@lanadionet]

My skin color is medium dark tan and the clear does not leave a white cast. It also doesn't feel like it has changed the formula that much. I've been using it for years and I have gotten it from many different stores, online and in person.

[@LabMuffinBeautyScience]

People with darker skin have been complaining that the clear version now has a white cast: www.reddit.com/r/AsianBeauty/comments/hmepaa/new_2020_formulation_for_canmake_mermaid_skin_gel/

[@lanadionet]

@Lab Muffin Beauty Science interesting, then not sure what the difference is. I got a new one recently at my local asian store and I had no problem. It may just be that my experience is different. I'm thankful for that because it's my favorite.

[@mierkablue]

well considering that the comments in the thread are 3 years old and my canmake bought 4 months ago is still clear and withtout a cast and dated for last autumn, I think there might have been another re-formulation in between even?

[@LabMuffinBeautyScience]

Oh possibly! That would be great news! 😄

[@theprousteffect9717]

I hear you on the inconvenience of getting cleansing oil from your hands to your face. The reason I tolerate it (and use the Kose specifically) is because it's much more effective at coating my lashes and removing waterproof mascara than balms tend to be. As for the Soon Jung 2x Barrier Intensive Cream, I really like it. I have dry, easily dehydrated, sensitive skin with mild rosacea, and live in a variable climate. A few winters ago, I'd been using too many products on my skin, probably had more barrier issues than usual, and had to pair down my skincare routine. My normal moisturizer wasn't heavy enough and was also causing some stinging when it hadn't before. I'd tried several creams meant for sensitive skin, and they all either stung, caused an allergic reaction, or clogged my pores. It got to the point where I was scared to apply anything to my face. The Soon Jung was one of the only moisturizers that didn't cause any issues for me at all, and was such a relief. One from Avène worked for me as well, but it was just too expensive. The Soon Jung also gives a nice glow that I prefer the look of. But I could see this product not being occlusive or soothing enough for those with incredibly dry, irritated skin. I now use the Pyunkang Yul Ato Cream (blue label), which works really well and is a bit heavier, which I prefer. Very cost effective too since it's technically a body cream. I prefer it to the Illiyoon because it actually contains emollient and occlusive ingredients, albeit "natural," like shea butter and beeswax.

[@Cat-vt5wb]

That is so relatable, my skin is combined and it tends to get so dry around my cheekbones during winter, this season is just deadly for me. And whenever I apply moisturising products, these dry patches start burning. It is horrible.

[@CherrieWells]

I have been using the cosrx BHA liquid and I actually find that it really does help to cut down on my black heads! I really work it in around and on my nose, which is where my black heads predominantly appear and I have been very pleased So far

[@Helterskelter803]

I find Cosrx BHA/AHA liquid ,which I alternate , work much better than the Paula’s choice BHA line.

[@shivika1000]

I couldn't agree more about the illiyoon user experience! When I told people I wake up dry after using it, they thought I'd destroyed my skin barrier by over exfoliation, but much less thick products work far better for keeping my skin moisturized all night.

[@dyanalovesnutella]

I remember trying the Biore Aqua Rich Watery Essence in around 2019/2020 and my skin got so itchy I could actually feel a pimple form under my skin :( Just shows how skincare is so YMMV. It also sat on top of my skin in a greasy layer and made my eyes water (I used to live in a humid climate). Happy for the people it works for though because I do recall enjoying the texture and the fragrance :)

[@LabMuffinBeautyScience]

That's disappointing! Hope you found an alternative sunscreen?

[@leticiaabreu2815]

OMG the same happened to me! Greasy, hurts the eyes and if the skin is irritated it BURNSS. Didn't work at all to me

[@Pointlessasusual]

The 2019 reformulation did the same thing to me and gave me closed comedones every time I tried it. I loved the previous formulation so it made me so sad when I couldn't make the new one work!

[@MissaBrevis]

I absolutely think humidity and temperature makes a difference - it works great for me most of the year but I start to have problems in the summer when the weather is hot and humid...

[@icesilverwind]

Oh! My area is very dry, so when I use this Biore sunscreen, it goes on and disappears. I suspect sweat mixes with this sunscreen and burns my eyes though. Maybe the climate is the difference.

[@megaliberty]

I'm glad you like the Cosrx snail essense. I use if after microneedling because it is so soothing. My skin has been healing quickly afterwards. It also helps to create a glowey look because of the way it reflects light, and I find it surprisingly moisturizing considers it's only a humectant. In the winter I will still switch to their snail cream, but this is great stuff for the rest of the year. I can't wait to try their propolis toner!

[@kameliaalimi44]

Hiii just wanna say that for french people a lotion is something liquid but with that cream effect too 😊 and it is often refers as lait which means milk 🥛! Ps I love your review !

[@JinMeowsoon]

Point for the Soon Jung Intensive Cream: I have very dry skin due to Sicca Syndrome and so far it’s the only non-medical moisturiser I’ve tried that is moisturising enough to prevents dry eczema and does not break me out. I’ve tried expensive dry skin lines from LaNeige, Clinique etc. It’s as moisturising as a serum to me. I use the Soon Jung Intensive cream twice a day and mix it with Squalane (The Ordinary) in Winter. I live in France, we have oceanic climate here (cool summers, mild winters, mild humidity).

[@lavayuki]

I use that subreddit and tbh, have used literally every single product mentioned lol. I prefer western brands for exfoliating, the asian ones don’t do anything. But for everything else especially toners, essences, sunscreens and moisturiser it’s all Asian Beauty for me. For cleansing either or, as I so like products for cleansing from both.

[@sarahblade1007]

It's so crazy how skincare works out so differently for everyone's skin type, even with some formulations being more advanced than others. The Illiyoon moisturizer is a new holy grail for my dry skin (even though I hate the misinformation on it), like a "I didn't know my skin could feel like this" kind of hydration, but it's not supposed to be hydrating based on the formulation??!! Wild. It's so stressful trying to find skincare that works when its all so subjective.

[@milanvujcich]

Facts. Got it not long ago and so far it's amazing

[@gchungus]

I just got it and it's great! A lot better for me than the Benton steam cream which seemed so promising but wasn't rich enough + caused texture 😔 Hoping these next couple wks I don't react to my new illiyoon!

[@Katniss0000]

Used it also and it is better than my cerave. this is for people who have fungal acne. The ingredients she said that it lacks is petrolatum and mineral oil are both bad for acne prone people.

[@debbiewalker273]

I was using the Mermaid Sunscreen for a while. My first try at a Japanese brand, but lately have been using The Beauty of Joseon brand sunscreen. Like it a lot, and feels so lightweight on.

[@cucumberwhale]

The silver lining to having oily and acne prone skin is one of the smartest cosmetic KZbinrs doing lists like these :D Thanks Michelle!

[@melindaperez-watts3330]

Hi Dr Michelle! I just wanted to say THANK YOU for ALL of the amazing advice and knowledge you provide in your videos! It is such a shit show in the marketing arena these days and it's so nice to have someone like you out there trying to debunk and correct all the nonsense with facts and science! Your hard work and information is greatly appreciated! You have saved me so many times from purchasing something I didn't need and something my skin DEF didn't need and turned me onto things I probably Never would have tried! You are doing such a wonderful job of clearing up a lot of misunderstandings and misinformation that a lot of us "consumers" deal with daily. I love all of the chemical knowledge I have learned, as well...watching you is like sitting in the BEST Chemistry class Ever...and I'm ACTUALLY interested! Lmao🤣 You are just so AWESOME!!🤩 Keep up the fantastic work!

[@silvermaine7810]

I can attest to the Rohto Melano CC. While it didn’t completely remove my dark spots, particularly the old ones, it really helped lighten them. The Melano CC is most effective when used on an active pimple. When I use it, getting an ugly spot is much much lower. Lastly, because of its packaging, it’s pretty stable and lasts a looong time.

[@leomn2075]

Korean products update their ingredients almost every year tweaking for better results. I watch Director Pi on youtube for information sometimes it has translated subtitles in English but she is the holy grail on Korean beauty product information

[@rimun5235]

I'm such a skeptic on this because I find it hard to believe a brand is going to update a product yearly and still make a profit. This means reformulating, testing again, meeting regulations, etc. Unless, I'm missing something, this would cost millions.

[@xjwqj1907]

@@rimun5235 skincare is huge in korea after all, so if it’s korean products i find it more believable

[@Jazminzesati]

@@rimun5235 skincare and all beauty is HUGE in Korea so I can believe it but they probably rotate the reformulations to make good profit 😅

[@karatalksaboutstuff7333]

Here's something that bugs me when I hear people talk about Isntree's toner -- they'll claim the light brown color indicates it's a "good" concentration of tea, but it literally has another brown ingredient on the list. The color tells you nothing about the tea. Anyway, I LOVE a good green tea toner, but Isntree's is out of my routine. I liked it in the summer because it did feel refreshing on my skin. But, when I bought it again I found the new bottle really irritated my skin. The ingredients list was the same, so I thought maybe it was a bad batch or something. I purchased a travel-size bottle to try it again a year later, and it broke me out again. I'm not too upset because I think I actually like the Benton toner better, anyway! I'm excited to try the Dr. Ceuracle kombucha toner as well. I know you said you don't think green tea does much for your skin, but it's one of my favorite ingredients.

[@nancykerrigan]

All these comments criticizing this toner are interesting since it's one of my favorites. I have one in stock and will start after I finish another toner/essence. I felt it was hydrating especially for the summer months. The only issue so far was it would stain my reusable rounds when I used it a year ago.

[@oz4648]

the pyunkang yul essence toner in my and my partner's experience a great anti inflammatory!! It's been a game changer in terms of like ezcema type stuff on the scalp.

[@LabMuffinBeautyScience]

That's great to know, thank you! I'll try to keep that in mind for the next time my scalp freaks out 😊

[@crodher5865]

Omg!! I am so glad I watched this video! I just got the cosrx nail mucin essence and have been dealing with lots of closed commedones for the last few weeks when i never had them before. I’ll take it out of my routine and see if it gets better. Thank you so much for this!! ❤

[@JW99736]

I really liked this video! Love seeing rankings in this visual way. Would you do one for topical antioxidants?

[@LabMuffinBeautyScience]

Thank you! I've been meaning to do a video about antioxidants for a while actually 😊

[@Shan72393]

@@LabMuffinBeautyScience yesss can you talk about skinbetter alto / alto advanced?

[@manhac7541]

@@LabMuffinBeautyScience plz make for sunscreens mineral and chemical too plx

[@naxp42]

"not for anyone, maybe for my enemies" MADE ME CACKLE!! Love your content!

[@bunnniel]

Isntree's green tea fresh toner was the only skincare product I used that made an noticable and immediate difference!

[@worldwarAA]

I live in a dryer area in Brazil, so I need a least a mist to pack hydration throughout the day even though I have oily skin. Been using tretinoin which is already drying to the skin and I cannot live without a mist and that’s why I’m really surprised that the poll doesn’t have a nice hydrating mist in the product list. I can attest that the cosRX snail line have improved my skin so much! Bioré sunscreen has been my go-to this summer even though it has ethanol, which I don’t mind cause it’s a better solvent option for my oily prone skin. I ordered the cosRX propolis toner and I’m excited to try it.

[@primordialmeow7249]

Muffin & Friends: Besides the legacy Kikumasamune Essence looking fabulous sitting upon the vanity and body use post shower, I use it as a refreshing scalp treatment along with a scalp massage. Works beautifully.

[@myladythekingsmother]

I use it on my face and neck, and it's a holy grail for my dry skin

[@lizmartin4555]

The kikumasamune is HG for me! It is the only reason my face isn’t flaky and dry in the winter. I use a couple pumps under a hyaluronic acid serum and then a thicker lotion over top to seal it all in.

[@Redsilas77]

I can't get past the placenta in it though

[@DeeLite220]

Same here! I have my elderly parents both hooked on it now too. SoCal desert living is no joke when it comes to dry skin (and dry eyes)

[@gayathrivaidy]

​@Redsilas77 me too 😢

[@thisismaer]

Great video as always! I tried that Soon Jung moisturizer from Etude and it's one of my favorite skincare products ever! It's been my go-to AM moisturizer this past winter season and I was so sad when I finished it (for context: where I live, the climate is very humid all year round. The temperature rarely goes under 0° C during the day in the winter season). Skin type: normal to dry and tends to be dehydrated (no matter how much water I drink, you can still notice the fine lines on my forehead).

[@demial4]

I'm glad you mentioned Kikumasamune High Moist Lotion. I use this all over myself and it's convenient to put on my scalp in the shower, compared to regular lotion. I agree, the scent is weird. The price is great.

[@XIIxMysticxIIX]

Ive never thought to put it on my scalp! I have a sensory thing with body lotions so ive used that and the hatomugi all over and then top it off with a non greasy lotion haha, but its nice to find out another way to use it, my scalp has been dryer lately!

[@blackrosenuk]

I'm a sucker for ranking videos in general. And then when you make them, total cherry on top! THANK YOU!

[@smp080]

Cosrx snail mucin is my botox in a bottle! I'll never stop using it.

[@meltedpickle]

The Cosrx BHA worked great for me for a few years, but now I feel like I’d like to try something stronger. It’s still effective and overall I recommend it!

[@ZijnShayatanica]

For AHAs, I definitely prefer stuff from The Inkey List over Asian skincare options. And my fave BHA is the Clean & Clear Dual Action Moisturizer [one of their only products that doesn't fuck up my skin]. I have combination skin which is very blackhead prone & Betaine Salicylate/Willow Bark just... Doesn't cut it.

[@katherinewong1689]

Thank you. Another amazing review 👏 My HG is the Melano CC. It’s not the best and most effective vitamin c but it does not irritate my skin and I can use it daily in the morning on face and back of my hands . I have used about 10 tubes and it does brighten my skin and with my sunscreen over it help to prevent pigmentation.

[@sovrappensiero1]

These are some of my favorite videos you do!!! I thought the COSRx mucin cream product was gimmicky until I tried it and it actually really helps me. Other products do too…but yeah I actually have really, really liked the COSRx products I’ve tried and I’ve stopped poo-pooing the brand based on the fact that it’s a US market-oriented, hyped brand, LOL. I like when my mind gets changed in that way…

[@LabMuffinBeautyScience]

Haha yeah - I stopped being an "authentic Asian brand that's popular in Asian countries" when I tried tone-up sunscreens and ashy BB creams. Sometimes Asian-but-tweaked-for-Western-tastes has its own advantages!

[@Jane_Doe_8909]

@@LabMuffinBeautyScience I wouldn't say it is particularly marketed to westerners, maybe now after the popularity boom. I still remember when the brand came out, they only had a handful of products. They became huge in Korea because of their BHA pads, which you will find on display with special discounts in every cosmetics store (or at least they were the last time I was in Korea). Every korean youtuber was talking about cosrx in their anti-acne skincare videos, including the bha pads, pimple patches, aha and bha essence, back when it was the original formula and it was called "white power essence" . For some reason, it really appealed to westerners and other products like snail mucin etc became popular, and I started seeing western youtubers talk about the brand too, which is when they were called out for the "white power" thing and they changed it. I think we tend to assume that when something is popular in the west, it's because it's been targeted to us specifically, but I wouldn't say this is an us-market oriented brand at all, like dear klairs is, which is actually very hard to find in korea, unlike cosrx

[@sovrappensiero1]

@@Jane_Doe_8909 that’s interesting…I thought that because Korean KZbinrs were saying, “People in Korea don’t really use this brand,” etc. Granted, I heard this more recently…so maybe it’s more a sign of changing trends.

[@Jane_Doe_8909]

@@sovrappensiero1 Maybe it's their circle? My Korean friend whose skincare routine I've seen uses cosrx (the galactomyces essence), and my roommates in the dorm used their bha pads. there are cosrx products that are definitely more talked about in western skincare circles. it's been 3 years since I was there, so maybe people forgot about cosrx in korea, trends come and go very fast, and the variety of skincare products they have is insane, so it must be hard to turn into a super popular brand that most people use

[@moontwirl]

my skin is normally quite oily, but after starting tretinoin it got really dry and flakey. I couldnt get it to stop peeling and the only products that helped were the Etude House Soon Jung 2x Barrier Intensive Cream and Illiyoon Ceramide Ato Concentrate Cream so I was quite surprised you werent a fan of either! Guess it shows how skin care is a hit or miss cause they truly saved my skin :)

[@nikki2370]

I think we all forget you're in Australia and we're dealing with snow but you have heat 🤣 && That's cool that that melano cc essence sounds cool!!

[@ErikBPG]

The soon jung emulsion is so good. So much moisturise yet so lightweight! I couldn't wrap my head around it the first time I used it.

[@nariepittman4632]

Love these videos, really helpful when trying new products 😊

[@LabMuffinBeautyScience]

Glad it was helpful!

[@grantspins4124]

Kikumasamune changed my skin! I’m lucky enough to be able to use it on my face, though the “glossy” version was a bit too much for face.

[@namakemono9480]

Your videos are great, rare occasion when watching beauty-related content is actually educational! And as I didn't put great effort into studying Chemistry in school*, it's easier for me to understand stuff when you are discussing particular cases. Also, you are 100% true about Japanese and Korean soft diplomacy. Particularily for Korea exporting pop culture and beauty it is a state-level planned strategy of extending global influence (which is far better than you know, waging wars and stuff like that, so it's not really criticism, but worth taking note of). *Kids, I'm 31, I was only studying the subjects I liked in school and slacking off science. I regret it now, everything they are teaching there is worth knowing, don't repeat my mistakes and make a good use of your time :D

[@CatherineKatswell]

i have normal-dehydration prone skin and i LOVE hydrating toners, the hada labo premium lotion has been a holy grail for me. when it comes to year-long tropical & humid weather i hate heavy moisturizers (even "gel" moisturizers bog down my skin with the amount i sweat every day). i love using toners with a watery serum and a lightweight gel sunscreen. it's light enough to sink into my skin but moisturizing enough that i don't have to worry when i'm constantly in an air conditioned room!

[@qqpie6382]

The watery lotion in the pink bottle is something I randomly bought 3-4 years ago and have been reordering ever since. I just use it on my face, but I might try it on my whole body now.

[@eduardomendes2055]

I was going to repurchase the Rhoto Vitamin C essence but it went out of stock on yesstyle after this video 😢 Its really a steal when you compare it to some western vit c serums that turn brown as soon as you open them

[@alabastersmom]

Wanted to let you know how much I enjoy your channel; you combine two of my favorite things, science and skin care!

[@diasparkle]

I agree regarding the exfoliating chemicals, sometimes it feels like Asian products are extremely low concentration to the point that it doesn't feel effective but some western exfoliants that I would never use because it's so crazy strong. I saw a dermatologist in Asia and was given 7% glycolic acid which already feels so strong to me so I was shocked to find out that there are people who use the TO 7% glycolic as a deodorant since the underarms seem like a sensitive skin area! I want to try the Melano CC, I also have a lot of hyperpigmentation and do rotate through AHA, BHA, adapalene and azelaic acid but I'm hoping Vitamin C will speed things up. I personally like western silicon heavy primer-like sunscreens under makeup but I also really like bulk size Asian gel sunscreens even if the protection isn't as high for daily usage. I think the only Asian product category that I don't find cost effective for the amount of product is moisturizing creams except for Illiyoon. Other than that I'm quite happy sticking with Hadalabo for HA and Hatomugi Skin Conditioner as my holy grails! I do find myself siding with Western products for benzoyl peroxide cleanser, BHA pads and the Aveeno Cream (previously I liked the illiyoon Cream but Aveeno was just more accessible to me as I just wanted a ceramide cream and have grown to appreciate petrolatum as an occlusive ingredient)

[@rollercoaster8881]

Which aveeno cream you use?

[@instantkarmalr]

Your analysis of the Illiyoon Ceramide Ato cream is so interesting (and correct) because I did not have a great experience with that product, but so many people with skin like mine seem to love it. My skin is (mostly) dry, dehydrated and sensitive - prone to eczema around the eyes and barrier disruption in general. And when I put on the Illiyoon cream after my hydrating layers and lighter moisturizer, it felt nice…for a couple minutes. Suddenly between 2-5 minutes later, my skin would feel incredibly thirsty in a way I have otherwise never experienced. It was like the cream had all been absorbed and my skin was trying to keep absorbing. Imagine a Kirby trying to swallow something but he’s just sucking in air forever, but as skin lmao. The only way I could use it was to put something more occlusive over it, and I figured there was no point in using it. It’s a foot cream now

[@sarahblade1007]

That's so wild! I have the same skin type and on me it felt the opposite! What occlusive do you like on top of it, out of curiosity?

[@instantkarmalr]

@@sarahblade1007 sorry - I just saw this! I used either straight up petroleum jelly or the LRP Cicaplast

[@davidsotir4318]

Thank you Michelle for such a thorough review - always appreciate your content!

[@top1aimlocker]

The soon Jung 2x barrier intensive is SO good for me. On a normal day I have normal skin. I live in Melbourne, in summer I can get oily. With tret I get quite dry. No matter what, I love this year round. I find it sinks into my skin way better than LRP CP B5, despite CP B5 being the holy grail for barrier repair (that one is my mask, moisturiser, and is the most effective at quickly sorting out an impaired barrier). It's one of my most repurchased products.

[@velcro-is-a-rip-off]

You're my favorite. Sources are reliable, credentials evidenced, well explained and clear enough for laymen like me. Thank you!

[@habituallearner7680]

The Kikamasumane is a facial holy grail for me, but that's because I'm 60 with extremely dry and dehydrated skin. The smell doesn't bother me because it is not the powdery, overpowering perfumy smell so many skin care products still have. I'm looking at you, Mizon anti wrinkle sleeping pack and almost every L'oreal cream! I can see how it would be terrible for a person with oily skin, though.

[@pinkmoonlydz]

I adore the Etude Soon Jung 2x Barrier Cream! I've gone through 2 bottles so far, and I've ordered my next one already. I normally have dry skin, but the reason I started using the Etude Soon Jung was after the Kate Sommerville retinol + vitamin c product combo destroyed my skin barrier (even though I had successfully used other retinol products without issue in the past). My face was pretty much an embarrassing disaster. The Etude Soon Jung helped alleviate the dry, scaly, patchy tightness all over my face, and it moisturized my skin so well that I've continued using it for about 2 years now. I usually use it in the PM, because although it does work nicely under makeup, it has no SPF.

[@CarolineNiggAyaLee-Janet]

Kikumasamune in japan is marketed as both for body and face!!! Also the smell is pure sake scent to me and I know that because we also have sake baths in Japan

[@kerrydoreen1150]

As an alternative i recently started using the Neogen Cica Repair Snail essence which combines snail and centella and OMG this is a wonderful product!!!!!

[@LabMuffinBeautyScience]

That sounds lovely, I'll have to look out for it!

[@karatalksaboutstuff7333]

The brand Peach Slices has a snail toner with centella!

[@lindseystein9676]

I must have received the old formula of the Mermaid sunscreen because it was amazing when I bought it last year. It felt like a light moisturizer and no white cast. I do remember there was a “clear” option and a “white” version where I purchased it, so maybe it was just the old and newer formula.

[@elleitra3004]

I just received mine. I have medium tan skin, especially after my vacation. Zero white cast for me.

[@Megan43210]

I think she is confusing the white and clear version

[@pikachen]

Dry, dehydrated skin that lives somewhere dry: - Canmake SPF: Tried older version; it was nice and felt smooth. Didn't have a smell or leave a white cast. I never repurchased it though because it didn't feel like a holy grail. -Cosrx Snail Mucin: Got it. Forgot about it. Use it on arms since I have KP and don't want it to go to waste. Not a HG for me. Seemed to dry my skin further. - I haven't used the cosrx propolis but I do have the iunik propolis and it's a HG. I love it and have repurchased it. So good to my dry, sensitive skin. - Laneige Cream Skin Refiner: HG. Love it! I don't want to be without it. lol - Illiyoon Ceramide Ato Cream did not work out as a face cream. My significant other used the entire cream up on his hands and he said it's the only thing he's tried that has worked wonders. Keeping an eye on it for price drops to load up for this use. - I'm From Rice Toner doesn't do anythiung substantial other than ~some brightening. I won't repurchase.

[@cherrypinkblue]

We do have our own brands growing these past 5 years or so. I think Indonesian beauty junkies stash at least 50% local brands in their vanity combined with other 50% of western and east asian products. Some of these brands successfully combine western and k- beauty principalities in their formulation with relatively more affordable prices. They kinda fill the missing gaps that neither trends make. I personally think K-skincare is best at their hydrating and calming products while western brands are more on potent actives.

[@CleavingGold]

I love that kikumasamune lotion tone for my face!! I replaced it with a hadalabo toner once i finished the huge bottle, but im very indifferent to it.the hadalabo, it feels fine but doesn't impress.

[@KaiOpaka]

I put Cosrx snail mucin essence on my skin when I got a rope burn. Every day I washed it, sprayed La Roche Posay thermal spring water, applied Cosrx, then after those, I did antibiotics/gauze wrap. Almost entirely gone. I usually have issues with my skin healing, but this went well. The hydration is no joke. ETA: I should tell folks, there was some stinging early on, but it didn't last.

[@jda58tex]

I am 64 and love the Isntree Green Tea toner. Now, I have never had skin issues; breakouts, acne, etc. Toners have never been my thing. I've used them on and off over the decades, but never really found them useful. I saw something, I don't even remember what, that prompted me to try this toner. I'm on my third bottle. I put it in a mister and use it after cleansing morning and night. It gives hydration and brings a clarity to my skin I didn't have before.

[@darlingrebel1244]

Thank you so much for the education!! I love your content! I look forward to more asian beauty content!

[@LabMuffinBeautyScience]

I'm so glad to hear that!

[@VivPhotography]

The COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid works just as well as Paula's Choice. I've used both for years and actually prefer the COSRX one. Once I run out of my PC one, I'm going to replace it with the COSRX one. I feel like it had more of a brightening affect and I like how it made my skin feel better.

[@FlamingoCupcake28]

I haven’t tried the toner, but I really like the Isntree green tea fresh emulsion. It’s a nice lightweight moisturizer for under sunscreen and my skin finds it super soothing.

[@smp080]

I looooove the soon Jung barrier cream! I'm South Asian and live in Sydney. I have dry/dehydrated skin. This has become my winter moisturiser.

[@acetone_loc]

I used a whole bottle of the isntree green tea toner and my sentiment is the same as yours. It didn't really do much more than plain water would do. I have a similar skin type as you, and like you, I am a minimalist w/skincare so when it doesn't do more then it's a meh from me.

[@grat2010]

I've been wanting to try a vitamin C product for PIH/PIE so this video is perfect timing. Thank you!

[@Yavieriel]

Regarding your last question in the video, I like to mist the Kikumasamune High Moist over a layer of (dried down) CosRx Snail Mucin because the snail mucin has a bunch of hyaluronic acid and I have dry skin (and live somewhere with dry winters), so the High Moist gives the HA some water to lock on to. Another glycerin based toner would probably also work well, but I haven't tried yet - I like the look of the I'm From Rice Toner so that will probably be my next toner purchase. Alone I find either product to be just okay but in combination they're my holy grail. Also it's funny you say the High Moist smells like apple cider, to me it always smells like Dubble Bubble chewing gum (not a fan).

[@toanduong6248]

Always Love your video, Michelle. Can you do a video with this format but with French pharmaceutical skincare brands. That could be helpful a lot. Thank you.

[@rebeccasammon7423]

I like the I’m from Rice Toner and Mugwort Essence. My skin is pretty dry and dehydrated, and is often gets sensitized (I have asthma, and many allergies.). I’ve been using both of these products for over a month now, and they have been working nicely so far.

[@rebeccasammon7423]

I alternate the rice toner with the Glow Recipe Watermelon toner.

[@LabMuffinBeautyScience]

They get a lot of rave reviews, I need to find the time to try out the Mugwort properly!

[@allysonbergman1303]

Do you get stinging with the mugwart?

[@Kasatrea]

I just saw a product advertise itself as free from Urea... like, among the other things it said it was formulated without such as mineral oil and parabens (which is annoying enough), they say they're not formulating with something that's naturally present in human skin, acting like urea is bad and dirty and unsafe. I thought of you after reading it and how grateful I am for your work, you explain things so well and I believe I am a more aware, mindful consumer because of the information you share. And I really hope other brands keep using urea because I adore it as an ingredient

[@angelinebiswas7611]

I would argue the round lab dokdo crème is one of THE BEST creams. It’s silky, thicker, and has ceramides higher up in the ingredients list along with cholesterol and fatty acids it’s so healing and like $20! My local Korean store stocks all the popular Korean skincare but I’ve been noticing the ingredients in those products are a bit different than the ingredients in the Korean products we get from Stylevana and those stores. I think they carry products actually being sold in Korea and not the ones marketed to the rest of the world but I’m not sure ❤anyway just blabbering

[@calipo5110]

stylevana sells fakes that is made in china that's why its so cheap.

[@lolaevergreen9077]

The Soon Jung 2x Barrier cream works amazing for me, it's one of my favorite moisturizers of all time! Feels like giving my skin a hug, haha :') I really love the whole Soon Jung line. The cleanser is great too, it's so basic and never irritates or dries out my skin. My skin type and climate: I live in Norway where it's cold for 6 months out of the year. My skin is dryness prone (gets flaky dry in the winter if I neglect my routine) and I have rosacea that requires constant management to stay under control.

[@celestema2506]

It made my skin so glowy and plump just after one application! However, I noticed pimples coming out at the same time. I used it on and off and confirmed it does cause pimples. Sigh, love how it helps with hydration

[@jasmineb5252]

The korean brand I've consistently used for the past six years has been the moistfull collagen collection from etude house which are the toner, serum, emulsion and sometimes essence, mostly because they're at good prices and have worked wonders for my skin. For cleanser, i use the innisfree green tea and for moisturizer, i use the aveeno no scent lotion, i try to keep it simply. I also use the neutrogena 70 spf sheer sunscreen and its good enough lol

[@brunette3cookie]

So the RoundLab cleanser is on this giant list of cleansers with a neutral pH, which is why I bought it and have repurchased it several times. I always tell people who like the Taycha Rice Powder (speaky clean feeling because the pH is like 8 or 9 😱) to use the Tosowoong Enzyme Powder Wash, which is neutral and makes your skin feel buttery soft instead of stripped. Got super into cleanser pH when I randomly started to get hormonal acne at 24 despite not having it as a teenager. I'm 29 now and as long as I use a BHA once and a while, no more monthly flare ups!

[@kle0mate]

There are 4 types of can make mermaid skin gel available to order on some Asian online markets. One clear, that you recommended an it is just fine to the day (I see no difference after using for quite a while) and there is also white one, that people probably purchased mistakenly, it has white cast, there’s also one with mint and tinted, both emerged not long ago.

[@cynixxi]

Yea I thought it was weird she mentioned it has a white cast now. The regular version doesn’t. People are probably grabbing one of the tone up versions.

[@angelinebiswas7611]

Omg that Etude soonjung barrier cream used to be a holy grail. Then when I was dealing with tretinoin and winter dryness I tried the balm and I LOVE it. It gives a film type of protection on the skin. I used to wake up with horrible dryness and I’d put that ball on my cheeks and it just made the dry flakes literally disappear and not be visible. I love that stuff. I’ve since moved onto other things but the balm will always stay on my shelf. I like the purito dermide balm it’s a bit of a different texture but I like it. My fav thing about Asian skincare is the textures and the fact that I’ve never had a single cream pill on my skin. I could layer 10 layers of Korean creams in my face and never experience pulling. American moisturizers are the worst for pilling. I haven’t had almost a single North American product NOT pill on me. I have an extremely unhealthy phobia to pilling on my face so I’ve been through the ringer. Also the Pyunkang Yul ATO blue label is a HG. One of the best occlusives I’ve ever owned and I own dozens of Korean creams. Illyoon cream is just ok-I prefer the ATO lotion to the cream ❤ ok ranting over lol😅

[@CK-gj8qf]

i loved this video, very informative as always!! 😍 i spontaneously tried the etude house soon jung 2x barrier intensive cream when it was on sale once and didn't really expect anything but this product works wonders for me and has definitely helped my skin to get through this rough winter we've had! i mainly use it during day and then the LRP cicaplast balm during night and i personally found that to be the best day/night combination for my skin! i have combination skin that gets dehydrated very easily and i really felt like the cream helped my skin to stay hydrated throughout the entire day without making me look to greasy esp my T-zone!! i live in germany and especially in winter we tend to have reaaally dry air and i gotta admit, it can be a little too moisturizing for me during the day in summer 🥲 it's also relatively inexpensive and not expensive at all so especially for people who don't have a lot of money to splurge on skincare will be happy with this! hope this helps!! 🥰

[@LabMuffinBeautyScience]

That's really good to know, thank you for all the details!

[@scarlettlav]

Yes the round lab cleanser is such a holy grail I love it so much and yes to the cute seal!!!! Usually I avoid foam cleanser but that cleanser is just amazing!!!

[@lei5912]

I used to use the Biore sunscreen but have since switched to Canmake, it suits my sensitive combination skin much better and doesn't feel dry at the end of the day. I really like it and it has no whitecast :)

[@batty_cats]

I have combination, sensitive skin. I find the Soon Jung 2x Barrier Cream to be quite heavy on me, but it moisturizes pretty well, so I use it at night. Garnier Micellar -> Kikumasamune High Moist Lotion -> Soon Jung 2x barrier Cream is my night time routine and I've found it works really well for me. The heaviness of the barrier cream doesn't bother me because I'm in bed, and it has all night to absorb and do whatever it does and my face feels nice in the morning.

[@m.g.5073]

found this on my recs, pretty funny that my list would be the complete 180 of this tier list. skincare really is just different strokes for different folks. ex. hada labo was absolutely hell on my skin idk what happened there

[@TPhamer]

I agree with the Green Tea Toner. I had oily skin when I used it, but it flared my eczema and didn't do much for me. My holy grail toner is that Cosrx Propolis one! My skin is now drier since I'm on prescription tretinoin, but that toner worked well for me before and after.

[@tinybullfrog1955]

Thank you for the info, as I looking for a hydrating toner, and I also have eczema and acne!

[@TPhamer]

@@tinybullfrog1955 I feel the pain! 😩 I also like the Mixsoon Centella Toner and the Good Molecules Niacinamide Toner (I have bad hyperpigmentation).

[@speedmao1]

My favourite Japanese skincare brand is SK-II. The clear lotion and the essence are so gentle and seem like they do nothing, but it is when I stop using them and my skin goes crazy that I realise what a great job they do.

[@kevinjanghj]

Round Lab probably reformulated the Dokdo cleansing foam at one point without changing the packaging because the original clear transparent gel texture has now become a milky gel in appearance.

[@jusdorange4720]

I LOVE the Isntree Green Tea Toner - It brings me somuch hydration and my cheeks are instantly calmed. I have redness in my cheeks (i've been told it is either PIE or just highly active capillaries) and somehow it calmed things right now. I tried using the Amore Pacific green tea toner and though I also liked that - I just felt that the combination of ingredients in the Isntree one did wonders!