Do Korean Skincare Products Really Work on Indian Skin? Glow Up or Give Up?

Korean beauty (K-beauty) has taken over the global skincare scene, and it's easy to see why. With its focus on hydration, glowing skin, and an elaborate multi-step routine, K-beauty has made a huge splash. But is it truly essential for everyone?

Dr. Aanchal, a renowned Dermatologist, recently shared her thoughts on Instagram, shedding light on whether Korean skincare is a must-have for all skin types and climates.

The backbone of Korean skincare is moisture. The colder, drier Korean climate calls for products that deeply hydrate and lock in moisture. ⁽²⁾ K-beauty products often include humectants—ingredients that pull moisture into the skin, keeping it plump and hydrated. This focus on hydration is a dream come true for those with dry or sensitive skin, as these ingredients help nourish and repair the skin barrier.

In places where the weather is already moist (think monsoon or tropical climates), your skin may already have enough hydration naturally, making the heavy hydration focus of Korean skincare less essential.

Layering: A Trend or Overkill?

One of the biggest draws of Korean skincare is the famous multi-step routine (3). We're talking about toners, serums, essences, moisturizers, and sometimes even face masks. But is all that layering really needed?

She mentioned that, during the rainy season or in places with high humidity, the skin naturally stays hydrated. So, all those layers might be an overkill for people in these climates. In fact, fewer products can give you the same results without overwhelming your skin.

The Magic of Soothing Ingredients

Another reason Korean skincare has so many fans is because of its soothing ingredients. K-beauty often features calming powerhouses like Snail mucin, Centella asiatica, Propolis, and Rice water extract. ^₍₄₎

These ingredients aren’t just for hydration—they also have anti-inflammatory properties that help calm irritated skin, reduce redness, and improve texture (5). For those with sensitive skin, these soothing agents are like a breath of fresh air, helping to restore balance and reduce flare-ups.

They not only hydrate but also calm and protect your skin from environmental stressors, making your skincare routine feel like a luxury spa treatment (6).

Is Korean Skincare a Must-Have in Your Routine?

So, do you absolutely need Korean skincare in your beauty routine? According to Dr. Aanchal, the answer is a clear "no"—at least not for everyone. While these products are undeniably moisturizing, soothing, and effective, they’re not irreplaceable. K-beauty might give your skin that instant plump, glowing look, but it’s not something you can’t live without.

Dr. Aanchal explained that for people with dry or sensitive skin, K-beauty products may be a fantastic option. But for those with normal or oily skin, there are plenty of other skincare products out there that are equally effective. So, while K-beauty is fun to use, it’s not essential—especially if you’re not in a climate where it’s needed. ⁽¹⁾

Final Thoughts: Skincare Should Be Personal

Skincare routines aren’t universal; what works for one person may not suit another. While Korean skincare has captured global attention ⁽⁷⁾ with its luxurious routines and hydrating products, it’s not an absolute necessity for everyone. The effectiveness of any routine depends on your skin type, lifestyle, and the climate you live in.

If you have dry or sensitive skin, K-beauty products can be a fantastic addition to your regimen, offering intense hydration and calming effects. But if you have normal or oily skin, you can achieve equally great results with simpler, more targeted options suited to your needs.

While Korean skincare can be a fun and effective choice for some, glowing, healthy skin is ultimately about consistency and using what works best for your skin.

Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only. Results may vary based on individual skin types, and it is recommended to consult a dermatologist.

References

1. Dr. Aanchal, Instagram Post on Korean Skincare. (2024). [https://www.instagram.com/dr.aanchal.md].

2. Park, E., Jo, D., Jeon, H., & Na, S. (2023). Effects of winter indoor environment on the skin: Unveiling skin condition changes in Korea. Skin Research and Technology, 29.

3. Connor, C., Messaraa, C., Kearney, E., Robertson, N., Doyle, L., & Walsh, M. (2020). Multi-step routines deliver better benefits to skin. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology.

4. Juhász, M., Levin, M., & Marmur, E. (2018). The use of natural ingredients in innovative Korean cosmeceuticals. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 17. Retrieved from https://doi.org/10.1111/jocd.12492.

5. Nguyen, J.K., Masub, N., & Jagdeo, J. (2020). Bioactive ingredients in Korean cosmeceuticals: Trends and research evidence. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 19, 1555–1569. Retrieved from https://doi.org/10.1111/jocd.13344.

6. Kwon, Y. (2020). Rituals and myths of Korean skin care practices: The emergence of K-beauty in the global marketplace. Journal of the Korean Society of Costume, 70, 45–61.

7. Zhang, R., Bi, N. C., Kodzi, P., Goodwin, A., Wasilewski, K., & McCurdy, E. (2020). From K-pop to Korean products: An investigation into the mediating effects of imitation and attitudes toward Korean culture and products. Journal of Cultural Marketing Strategy, 5.

By Dr. Sreelekshmi P

_MSM