For most of us staying at home and finding more time on our hands, the attention has turned onto ourselves – and in particular our skincare. More and more of us are looking for non-toxic, natural products to revitalize our skin, and nowhere is this more prominent than in Korean skincare.
For years now K-beauty has been leading the way for innovative skincare, with a focus on using organic ingredients that are gentle on the skin and have long term health benefits. It’s no wonder that Korean skincare is now gaining attention from all over the world. But with thousands of brands to choose from it can be difficult to know where to start. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of four natural K-beauty brands making waves in skincare.
innisfree
innisfree sources natural ingredients from Korea’s volcanic Jeju Island, avoiding harmful chemicals and preservatives. Amongst the natural ingredients used are volcanic clusters that absorb excess oil and impurities, cherry blossom said to boost radiance and canola honey which is rich in flavonoids and proteins.
Not only does innisfree use the finest ingredients, but they are committed to protecting and preserving the environment that produces them. This is upheld through responsible sourcing of ingredients, forest preservation and recycling programs.
One of their most popular products is the Pore Clearing Clay Mask which claims to minimize the appearance of pores and exfoliate the skin with the use of volcanic clusters.
Whamisa
For Whamisa, research is key. They’ve spent over 10 years perfecting their craft and are pioneers in fermentation technology, natural preservation and botanical formulations.
Whamisa products are certified organic, and packed full of antioxidants, vitamins and amino acids, leaving skin nourished. In addition to this, products are not tested on animals, with most being suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
The Organic Flowers Toner is one of their best-sellers. Enriched with argan oil, dandelion extract and galactomyces, this vegan-friendly product boasts ultra-hydration.
Benton
Benton’s aim is to restore skin to its youthful health with the help of natural, non-chemical ingredients and natural preservatives. This ‘clean beauty’ brand uses natural preservative EURO-NApre which is known for having multiple skin benefits including antibacterial, antioxidant and antiseptic properties, moisturizing and brightening effects, as well as helping to calm acne with vitamins and flavonoids.
Benton’s commitment to all things natural even extends towards their packaging. The company has pledged to make all packaging eco-friendly after the success of replacing their ‘Shea Butter & Coconut Body Lotion’ box with a biodegradable and eco-friendly alternative using sugarcane paper and soybean oil ink.
One of their most sought after products is the Snail Bee High Content Essence. This innovative product uses snail secretion and bee venom to improve dull skin and blemishes, promote elasticity and provide hydration.
Belif
With a combination of apothecary herbal traditions and modern Korean science, Belif has created a range of natural and effective skin solutions. Products are filled with the purest natural ingredients whilst avoiding harmful chemicals such as parabens, sulphates, synthetic preservatives and dyes. Products are also free from animal-based ingredients.
With a focus on herbal ingredients such as oat seed, rose, nettle and chickweed, Belif products are packed with antioxidants and minerals which soothe and revitalize the skin.
The True Cream – Aqua Bomb is a best-seller, claiming to refresh skin and provide intensive hydration. Natural ingredients used are lady’s mantle for antioxidants and pore-minimizing effects, malachite to neutralize damage to cells, oat husk to attract moisture and plantain to seal the moisture in.
The Korean beauty philosophy holds that skincare starts from the inside, with a focus on maintaining healthy and nourished skin rather than simply treating issues on the surface – and this is all made possible with the use of natural ingredients.