Guides

Korean skincare and makeup, answered.

  • Mystery box guide

    The Korean skincare mystery box, explained

    What a Korean skincare mystery box is, what comes inside, how its value is calculated and how to pick the right K-beauty box for your skin.

  • Mystery box guide

    Are beauty mystery boxes worth it?

    How to tell if a beauty or skincare mystery box is worth the money: retail value, full sizes, personalization, reorders and cancellation terms.

  • Makeup guide

    The Korean makeup look, step by step

    How to get the Korean makeup look: dewy skin, light coverage, straight brows, gradient lips and a soft flush, plus the skincare prep that makes it work.

  • Makeup guide

    How to prep your skin for makeup

    The simple skincare routine to prep skin before makeup: cleanse, hydrate, moisturize, sunscreen and timing. Smoother application and less creasing or flaking.

  • Routine guide

    Korean skincare routine order, morning and night

    The correct Korean skincare routine order for morning and night, from cleanser to sunscreen, with the thinnest to thickest rule explained simply.

  • Beginner guide

    Korean skincare for beginners

    New to Korean skincare? Start with three easy steps, learn the key terms and pick beginner-friendly K-beauty products without the overwhelm.

  • Skin guide

    What is glass skin?

    Glass skin means a smooth, hydrated, luminous complexion. Learn what it is, the routine behind the look, and realistic expectations.

  • Ingredient guide

    What is PDRN in skincare?

    PDRN (polydeoxyribonucleotide) is one of Korean skincare’s most talked-about ingredients. What it is, where it comes from and how to use PDRN products.

  • Routine guide

    Toner, essence, serum, ampoule: what is the difference?

    Confused by toner, essence, serum and ampoule? A simple explanation of each Korean skincare step, how they differ and the order to apply them.

  • Mask guide

    How to use a hydrogel mask

    How to use a hydrogel mask like Biodance’s Real Deep Mask: when to apply it, how long to wear it, how often and tips for the best fit.

  • Ingredient guide

    Retinal vs retinol

    Retinal and retinol are both vitamin A derivatives. How they differ, who each suits, how to start and why sunscreen matters with both.

  • Sun care guide

    The Korean sunscreen guide

    Why Korean sunscreens are popular, how to apply sunscreen correctly, how much to use and what to look for on a US label.

  • Skin type guide

    Korean skincare by skin type

    How to build a Korean skincare routine for dry, oily, combination or sensitive skin, with product picks from Anua, Medicube, Biodance and Beauty of Joseon.