Do Korean beauty products work on Indian skin? Experts share insights

From Korean dramas to food to Korean skincare, everything ‘K’ has seen a huge rage in the Indian market. Korean skincare especially is becoming more popular among Indian women because it offers effective solutions for various skin concerns like acne, dryness, and uneven skin tone.

Why are Korean products good for the skin?

While speaking with Indian Express, Dr. DM Mahajan, Senior Consultant, Dermatology, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, explained, “Korean creams have been developed for skin health instead of skin whitening or superficial beauty. They act like any vitamin and mineral supplements you take. The outermost layer of our skin acts like a barrier against pollutants and microbes."

These creams strengthen this barrier using natural and eco-friendly ingredients as opposed to chemical-laden creams that rely on active ingredients like vitamin C, acids and retinols, all of which erode and strip the skin over time. K-creams hold off this corrosive effect and are more hydrating. In fact, they enhance the skin’s ability to retain water on the surface, Dr. Mahajan added.

Do Korean skincare products work on Indian skin?

Dr Rashmi Sharma, senior consultant dermatologist at Fortis, Vasant Kunj, used some Korean products on herself. She told Indian Express that some worked and some didn't. She explained that this is becuase Koreans are genetically blessed with luminescent or glassy skin. Besides, skincare for them is hygiene practice, like brushing your teeth. They follow 10-steps of both water and oil-based cleansing, exfoliating, toning, moisturising and sun-blocking with serums, creams and facemasks. Their external skin layer is already primed against intruders, so the creams have a better base to work on.

She added that Indians on the other hand are neither genetically blessed, nor do we follow a skin hygiene routine as vigorously as their Korean counterparts.

Main ingredients of Korean products

Korean skincare products often feature a variety of key ingredients known for their effectiveness in addressing specific skin concerns. Some common main ingredients found in Korean skincare products include:

Hyaluronic Acid: Known for its hydrating properties, hyaluronic acid helps retain moisture in the skin, keeping it plump and supple.

Ginseng: This traditional Korean ingredient is believed to have anti-aging properties and can help improve skin elasticity and firmness.

Green Tea: Rich in antioxidants, green tea extract helps soothe and protect the skin from environmental damage while reducing inflammation.

Snail Mucin: A unique ingredient in Korean skincare, snail mucin is prized for its ability to repair and hydrate the skin, promoting a smooth and glowing complexion.

Centella Asiatica (Cica): Known for its calming and healing properties, centella asiatica is often used to soothe irritated or sensitive skin and promote faster wound healing.

Vitamin C: This potent antioxidant helps brighten the skin, fade dark spots and hyperpigmentation, and protect against free radical damage.

Also watch: This summer try this refreshing vitamin C-enriched juice for glowing and healthy skin