Around the world, one thing is on everyone’s mind this summer, and it’s not fun. That’s right – inflation. We’re all feeling the financial pinch right now as prices are soaring. Most of us are having to cut our spending, but that doesn’t mean we need to give up self-care completely. Finding affordable Korean skincare products is easier than ever before. Here are some easy ways to save this summer!
Introduction
Everyone already knows that Koreans love to take care of their skin. Skincare culture in Korea is HUGE. That is one of the reasons South Korea has been developing high-quality products that are often very affordable. If you want to start taking care of your skin but don’t know where to start, you are in the right place. In this post, I’ve highlighted some essential products to help you start taking care of your skin like a Korean. These products are useful, work well, and most importantly, they are really affordable!
Aloe Vera Soothing Gel
An Affordable Alternative to Face Cream
This is definitely one of my all-time favorites! This soothing gel is sold under several brands. Plus, packages typically start at 2,000 won. Because it is an all-natural product that is only grown in a few places in Korea, you are getting a similar quality product no matter where you buy it from.
The best thing about this product is that it is absolutely versatile. You can use it on your face, body, and hair. As it normally contains more than 90% aloe vera, the soothing gel is very natural! So, in addition to not irritating the skin, it also has calming properties. You can use it on irritated and sensitive skin. And obviously, it delivers amazing moisturizing action! This is undoubtedly a must-have in your Korean skincare routine.
As it is very popular in Korea, there are several brands that manufacture this gel. I personally use Nature Republic ALOE VERA 92% SOOTHING GEL a lot. A 300ml package costs around 4,000 won. I usually use it when my skin is irritated (after shaving, when burned, on bruises, etc). It calms my skin, keeps it moisturized, and helps it heal
Toner
Cut the 12-Step Routine, Leave the Toner
It’s amazing the difference a toner can make to your skin! The main function of the toner is to balance the ph of your skin. This makes it healthier, hydrated, and able to better absorb nutrients from the products you put on top of it.
The toner enhances the effects of other creams and serums you put on your skin and leaves your face looking fresh and healthy. Plus, a toner can get you the results you want much faster than other skincare products. And even if you don’t use any other product over the toner, your skin will still look better. In fact, the trend in Korea nowadays is to leave behind multi-step routines. Instead, Koreans prefer using a toner and maybe one or two other skincare products focused on minimal and natural ingredients.
Like the Aloe Vera Soothing gel, toner is produced by several brands. The most important thing with toner is the ph balancing factor, which they all have. At Daiso you can find small toners for as little as 1,000 won!
I personally use Tonymoly Ceramide Mochi Toner. A 500ml bottle costs around 7,000 won. It lasts several months with daily use, is of great quality, and leaves the skin soft and fresh. I like to use my toner several times a day. I use it after taking a shower, or after washing my face, before bed, as the first step of my nighttime skincare routine, and before the first step of my makeup routine.
Sunscreen
The One Product You Shouldn’t Cut
For sure, sunscreen is the best skin care product you can use on your skin! The frequent use of sunscreen prevents UV damage. And, in the long run, it not only saves you money on anti-aging skin care and treatments, but it can also prolong your life. Skin cancers are no joke, so you should always wear sunscreen. However, you don’t need an insanely expensive product for it to be effective.
Of all the products mentioned in this list, sunscreen is the most expensive. From my research, it is possible to find sunscreens starting at 5,000 won. However, cheap sunscreens can be problematic. If products are older, not well made, or have a low SPF they can be completely ineffective and a waste of money. Unfortunately, good Korean sunscreens start at 10,000 won and are fairly small. As a result, it is best to cover up and only use it on exposed skin.
For me, the sunscreen I found best suits my skin type was Etude House’s Sunprise, which costs around 15,000 won. It has a matte finish and leaves skin feeling smooth throughout the day. You feel like you’re not wearing anything on your face!
I think that choosing sunscreen is very personal and varies a lot according to skin type. For example, if you have darker skin, physical sunscreens will leave a white cast. If you are prone to redness, green-tinted sunscreen is a great option. And don’t forget: it is important to use the right amount of product so that the sunscreen can do its job and protect your skin. No saving! And, if you are outdoors, be sure to reapply it throughout the day.
Conclusion
As a first step, I believe these are the most relevant products to start taking care of your skin here in South Korea at an affordable price point.
Another way you can save money this summer is by doing everything in your power to ensure your makeup doesn’t melt off your face! Click Here for tips to help your makeup last through the summer heat.
1 comment
Hey, great post! I really like the content you have shared. Keep sharing!