There’s no doubting the popularity of K-beauty in Singapore. From big players like the Amorepacific group, which introduced brands like Sulwhasoo, Laneige, Hera, Etude House and Innisfree, to smaller indie brands that have partnered with Guardian Pharmacy, there’s no shortage of K-beauty products for beauty lovers here. But that hasn’t stopped us from checking out what’s new on our trips to the land of Kimchi, K-pop and K-drama.
Here are seven new beauty treats you can pick up on your next Seoul vacay, which aren’t available at shops here:
Give your complexion a radiance boost (try these brightening products for a radiant complexion) with this makeup primer. In addition to helping makeup last longer, the formula balances the skin’s oil-moisture levels to give your complexion a dewy finish. Plus, its super lightweight texture absorbs quickly, which makes it ideal for Singapore’s humid weather. Head to a Laneige counter or store in Seoul to buy it.
A new addition to the brand’s well-loved Cicapair line. This gel mask is enriched with centella asiatica to help repair and strengthen the skin while you sleep. It also helps boost antioxidant protection and prevent the occurrence of future blemishes too. head to Dr Jart+ counters and store in Seoul to buy it.
Another K-beauty product infused with centella asiatica. The formula contains 85 per cent of the active ingredient to instantly soothe and re-balance the skin in just 15min. It’s perfect for days when skin feels flushed and stressed.
Fun Fact: Somin of the co-ed K-pop idol group Kard, is already a fan of Tamburins’ Tiger Leaf products – 91 Cream and 100 Serum – so we’re sure she’ll be picking this up real soon too. Find it at the Tamburins flagship boutique and Sephora Korea.
An indie makeup brand popular among young South Korean millennials, Amuse targets trend-loving women, like its brand ambassador Jessica Jung, who aren’t afraid to experiment with their makeup.
Must-tries from the brand include its various lip products like Newtro Matt, a liquid lipstick that delivers a non-drying matte finish, and Powder Lip Bomb Pencil, a coloured balm-like lip crayon that keeps lips supple and moisturised thanks to the use of mango butter and avocado oil. Available exclusively at Sephora Korea.
Thanks to a unique technology that delicately extracts the antioxidant-rich (here's why you need antioxidants for your skin) compounds from the superfood, black seed, this serum is packed with antioxidants, vitamins B and E, and amino acids to keep skin healthy and youthful. It also protects against harmful environmental aggressors at the same time. Find it at the Primera flagship boutique in Seoul.
The best of both worlds in one bottle. Infused with white truffle, this oil-in-water serum not only hydrates the skin and strengthens skin’s moisture barrier, it also brightens the skin tone. Plus, it reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, keeping the signs of ageing at bay. Available at Olive Young stores.
A nourishing face oil infused with Korean herbal ingredients such as pine nut oil to protect, hydrate and re-balance the skin. Each oil is also infused with natural elements and uses traditional perfuming techniques for a holistic treatment that soothes the senses.
Comes in five variants: First Peace, Forest Morning, Gentle Blossom, Capturing Moment, Inner Fullness. Find it at the Sulwhasoo flagship boutique in Seoul.