K-Beauty Guide & Ingredient Glossary

Your Guide to Korean Beauty

New to K-beauty? We've got you covered. Korean skincare is all about achieving healthy, glowing skin through a consistent routine and high-quality ingredients. Here's everything you need to know to get started.

The K-Beauty Routine

  1. Oil Cleanser — Removes makeup and sunscreen
  2. Water-Based Cleanser — Deep cleans pores
  3. Exfoliator — 2–3 times a week to remove dead skin cells
  4. Toner — Balances skin pH and preps skin for absorption
  5. Essence — Lightweight hydration and skin repair
  6. Serum / Ampoule — Targeted treatment for specific concerns
  7. Sheet Mask — Intensive hydration boost (2–3 times a week)
  8. Eye Cream — Nourishes the delicate eye area
  9. Moisturizer — Locks in hydration
  10. Sunscreen (AM) — Essential daily protection

Key K-Beauty Ingredients Glossary

Centella Asiatica (Cica)
A calming herb that soothes irritated, sensitive skin and supports skin barrier repair. Found in many SKIN1004 products.

Hyaluronic Acid
A powerful humectant that draws moisture into the skin, keeping it plump and hydrated.

Niacinamide
Brightens skin tone, minimizes pores, and reduces the appearance of dark spots.

Snail Mucin
Rich in glycoproteins and hyaluronic acid, it repairs skin, boosts hydration, and fades scars. A K-beauty staple.

Propolis
A natural antibacterial ingredient that soothes blemishes and nourishes the skin.

Adenosine
An anti-aging ingredient that helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Panthenol (Vitamin B5)
Deeply moisturizing and soothing, ideal for dry or sensitive skin.

Madecassoside
Derived from Centella Asiatica, it accelerates skin healing and reduces redness.

Ceramides
Lipids that strengthen the skin barrier and prevent moisture loss.

Retinol
A Vitamin A derivative that promotes cell turnover, reduces wrinkles, and evens skin tone. Best used at night.

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Have questions about which products are right for your skin type? Contact us — we're happy to help!