Japanese or Korean Skincare, which one to try?

Before discussing what makes these two cultures have different and independent views on beauty, it is essential that although there are different approaches to beauty and skincare products, K-beauty and J-beauty share the same vision and goal of skin health. Japanese or Korean Skincare products focus on moisture, minimizing or preventing skin pigmentation problems (such as melasma, brown spots, and freckles). Both beauty styles support maximum sun avoidance and limit the skin’s direct exposure to the sun to protect the body’s natural moisture barrier. So which is much better, Japanese or Korean skincare products?

Japanese cosmetics, a combination of science and beauty history

Japanese beauty products are constantly inspired by the royal rituals, culture, and history of the country of cherry blossoms. Since ancient times, Japanese women have had very detailed beauty procedures, and their skincare routine might have up to 10 products as they believed each product played a unique role in skincare.

The ultimate goal of Japanese beauty procedures is to achieve porcelain white skin. To have this skin, Japanese women use a lot of beauty layers. They were followed by essence, lotion, and serum. For this reason, Japanese cosmetics always have a light texture to be applied in many layers without clogging pores. Japanese women also take great care when going to the spa. Therefore, facial massage is always popular in Japan, which helps improve blood circulation, slim, and create V-line. Although inspired by history, Japanese cosmetics are always based on science. Products are continually researched and give good results in the laboratory before being published.

Korean cosmetics, the power to create new beauty trends

Like Japanese cosmetics, Korean cosmetics are also inspired by long-standing beauty processes combined with modern technology. The beauty of Korean cosmetics is that the products are always innovative, have novel packaging, and are attractive.

Not to mention, the power of Kpop stars also helps Korean cosmetics create new beauty trends. From the makeup trend of smoky lips or peachy pink eyes. Come to the challenge of applying a face mask every night for seven days. Korean stars also create beauty and confidence for both men and women. They are bringing a growing market for men’s skincare products.

So which product should you choose?

• Choose Japanese cosmetics: if you like minimalist products
• Choose Korean cosmetics: if you want to style more is more

Top 5 best Japanese cosmetic brands

1. Shiseido

The oldest cosmetic brand in the world, Shiseido, was born in 1872. Founded by pharmacist Arinobu Fukuhara, Shiseido has continuously researched scientific formulas that bring the most pronounced effects. Under Shiseido’s direction are trusted brands such as Clé de Peau Beauté, Nars, and BareMinerals.

2. SK-II

SK-II is famous for its PITERA™ essence, extracted from fermented rice water. Rich in vitamins, amino acids, and minerals, this extract has been shown to help prevent the formation of wrinkles and preserve youth.

3. Shu Uemura

Founded by Mr Shu Uemura, Shu Uemura is famous for his makeup line and his oil-based makeup removers. The Shu Uemura makeup remover line is an indispensable product for double-cleansing.

4. Kose SEKKISEI

Kosé is a Japanese cosmetics corporation with dozens of skin and hair care brands. However, the most prominent is still the SEKKISEI brand. Easily identifiable with the blue and white packaging, reminiscent of the colours of snow. The main effect is skin whitening.

5. Tatcha

This new cosmetic brand is inspired by more than a thousand years of Geisha beauty. Tatcha cosmetics contain essences from silk proteins, camellia oil and green tea. The product that makes Tatcha famous is the Luminous Dewy Skin Mist mineral water spray bottle that helps to moisturize the skin visibly. This mineral spray is Kim Kardashian’s favourite.

Top 5 best Korean cosmetic brands

1. Sulwhasoo

Sulwhasoo combines science and Oriental medicine, launched in 1966 by Mr. Suh Sung-wan in Kaesong city, a famous place for high-grade ginseng. Since then, ginseng and rare herbs have become the foundation of Sulwhasoo’s name.

2. The History of Whoo

The History of Whoo is inspired by beauty secrets from the Korean royal palace. This Korean cosmetic line is famous for its anti-aging products, pure oriental fragrance, and jewel-like packaging.

3. O HUI

The specialty of O HUI lies in products that not only moisturize or whiten skin; but promote healthy skin from the core by activating skin cells. In particular, this is a product suitable for those with sensitive skin because it uses stem cell extracts.

4. Laneige

Laneige Cosmetics is one of the brands that amplifies the sleeping mask trend. Laneige’s Water Sleeping Pack EX sleeping mask continuously wins many cosmetic votes worldwide.

5. Su:m37°

In Korean, Sum means to breathe, and 37º is the optimal temperature for perfect fermentation. Su:m37º uses essences from more than 80 kinds of fruits, vegetables, and flowers; then fermented for 365 days. When fermented, natural ingredients penetrate the skin better; produce skin-friendly vitamins as well as AHA acids.