Korean Skincare

Korean skincare works on a different premise from most Western routines: many light layers rather than one heavy product, and consistency rather than correction.

That approach suits the Gulf better than it suits the climate it came from. Heat and air conditioning together dehydrate skin while leaving it oily on the surface — the exact problem a thin, watery essence solves and a rich cream makes worse.

The order that matters

Thinnest to thickest. Cleanser, then a hydrating toner or essence on damp skin, then a serum for whatever you are actually treating, then a light moisturiser to hold it in. Sunscreen last, every morning, without exception — it is the single product that does more than the rest combined, and the one most often skipped.

Two rules save most of the trouble: introduce one new active at a time, and give it six weeks. Skin does not respond faster than that, and stacking three new products means you cannot tell which one caused the reaction.

What is here

Cleansers, essences, serums, creams and sunscreen. Beauty of Joseon is the core of the range — rice, ginseng and mugwort formulas, and the Relief Sun sunscreen that made the brand's name. See also Korean sunscreen.

Prices in AED, delivered across the United Arab Emirates.

Building a Korean skincare routine

Korean skincare works by layering rather than by single fixes. Instead of one heavy cream doing everything, several light layers each do one job, which is what makes the approach workable in humidity and heat.

The order that matters

Apply thinnest to thickest: cleanser, then toner or essence, then serum, then moisturiser, and sunscreen last in the morning. Let each layer absorb before the next one goes on.

Where to begin

  • Three steps first: cleanser, moisturiser, daily sunscreen
  • Add one new product at a time, so you can tell what your skin is reacting to
  • In humid weather, favour water-based and gel textures over rich creams

This collection covers the ranges we carry from Beauty of Joseon, COSRX and Dr. Althea. Ingredient lists and volumes are on each product page as supplied by the brand.

Frequently asked questions

Where do I start with Korean skincare?
Start with three steps: a gentle cleanser, a moisturiser, and a sunscreen for the day. Add serums and essences later, once you know how your skin reacts to the base routine.

In what order do I apply the products?
Thinnest to thickest: cleanser, toner or essence, serum, moisturiser, then sunscreen in the morning. Allow each layer to absorb before the next.

Does Korean skincare suit hot and humid weather?
The textures are generally lighter than Western equivalents, which is why gel and fluid formats are popular in the region. Choose water-based layers over heavy creams if your skin feels congested in humidity.