The secret to dewy skin is intense hydration. How can you get that? Use the best Korean emulsion for your skin type and you’ll soon start noticing the difference!
Hydration is the key to beautiful and flawless skin and the K-Beauty industry has this down pat. Emulsions are an important ingredient that helps your skin achieve the best hydration.
Best Korean Emulsion — Quick Summary
| Best Korean Emulsion | Best For |
| SoonJung 10 Free Moist Emulsion | Skin Repair |
| ETUDE HOUSE MOISTFULL COLLAGEN EMULSION | Mature Skin |
| Rice & Ceramide Moisturizing Facial Emulsion | Exfoliation |
| Laneige Essential Balancing Emulsion | Moisturisation |
| MIZON Collagen Power Lifting Emulsion | Anti-Wrinkle |
| Nature Republic Snail Solution Emulsion | Anti-Ageing & Skin Repair |
| Sulwhasoo Essential Balancing Emulsion | Rough skin |
| It’S SKIN Collagen Nutrition Emulsion | Firming the Skin |
| Nature Republic Super Aqua Max Watery Emulsion | Oily Skin |
| THE FACE SHOP The Therapy Hydrating Formula Emulsion | Anti-Ageing |
Which is the best Korean emulsion?
I tested several Korean emulsions to find the best. I tested them based on hydrating power, application, and ingredients. I found that Etude House Moistfull Collagen Emulsion is the best Korean emulsion. And here’s why:
Etude House Moistfull Collagen Emulsion has a gentle, non-irritant formula which is free of mineral oils. This Korean emulsion is great for most skin types including aging skin. It has a light and watery formula that hydrates the skin. The formulation of Etude House Moistfull Collagen Emulsion contains hydrolyzed collagen water and baobab water that moisturizes the skin and make it soft and supple.
What is emulsion in Korean skincare
Korean skincare is taking the world by storm, and one of the hottest products on the market is the emulsion. What exactly is an emulsion, you ask?
Well, imagine a lightweight, water-based moisturizer that is designed to hydrate and nourish your skin without leaving a greasy or heavy residue.
That’s pretty much what an emulsion is in a nutshell. Emulsions are an essential element in the Korean beauty routine, and they work to deliver a variety of benefits to the skin.
They are formulated with active ingredients such as plant extracts, vitamins, and minerals that penetrate deeply into the skin to deliver hydration, reduce inflammation, and promote a healthy glow. The consistency of an emulsion is what sets it apart from other moisturizers.
It’s not as thick as a cream, but it’s not as thin as a serum either. Emulsions are designed to be lightweight and quickly absorbed, leaving your skin feeling soft and supple.
Emulsions are also customizable products that can be adapted to suit individual skin types and concerns. For instance, if you have oily skin, you can choose an emulsion that is oil-free and helps to control sebum production.
If you have dry skin, you can choose an emulsion that is rich in moisture-binding ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin. The bottom line is that emulsions are an excellent addition to any skincare routine, and they can benefit a wide range of skin types and concerns.
Whether you’re looking to hydrate, brighten, or soothe your skin, there is an emulsion out there that is perfect for you. So why not give it a try and see just how amazing your skin can look and feel?
How to choose the best Korean emulsions for your skin type
Choosing the best Korean emulsion for your skin type can feel like a daunting task, but don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!
First, it’s important to understand what emulsions are and how they differ from other skincare products. Emulsions are lightweight moisturizers that contain both water and oil, making them perfect for hydrating and nourishing the skin without feeling heavy or greasy.
When it comes to choosing the right emulsion, consider your skin type. If you have oily skin, look for lightweight emulsions that contain ingredients like tea tree oil or green tea extract, which can help balance oil production and reduce the appearance of pores.
If you have dry skin, look for emulsions that contain hyaluronic acid or ceramides, which can help boost hydration and restore the skin’s moisture barrier. Sensitive skin types should look for emulsions that are fragrance-free and contain gentle ingredients like chamomile or aloe vera.
Combination skin types can benefit from emulsions that have a balance of hydrating and oil-controlling ingredients. Look for emulsions that contain ingredients like niacinamide or alpha hydroxy acids, which can help brighten and even out the skin tone.
In addition to considering your skin type, it’s important to read the ingredient list carefully to avoid any potential irritants. Look for emulsions that contain natural and nourishing ingredients like ginseng or honey, which can help improve skin texture and leave your complexion looking radiant.
Remember, finding the best Korean emulsion for your skin type may take some trial and error, but once you find the perfect one, your skin will thank you!
Difference between an moisturizer and emulsion skincare product
There is a lot of confusion surrounding the differences between emulsion and moisturizer skincare products. Many people assume that they are interchangeable, but in reality, they serve different purposes for the skin.
Emulsion is a lightweight, watery lotion that is designed to provide a burst of hydration to the skin. It is usually applied after toner and before moisturizer, acting as a barrier to lock in moisture and nourish the skin.
Emulsion is great for those with oily or combination skin, as it is less heavy than a traditional moisturizer and helps to regulate oil production.
On the other hand, moisturizer is a thicker, creamier product that is designed to provide longer-lasting hydration and protection for the skin.
It is usually applied after emulsion or in place of it. Moisturizer is ideal for those with dry or mature skin, as it helps to lock in moisture and protect the skin from environmental stressors. Overall, the main difference between emulsion and moisturizer is their texture and purpose.
Emulsion is meant to provide a light, refreshing burst of hydration, while moisturizer is meant to provide long-lasting hydration and protection. Both are important steps in any skincare routine, and it’s important to choose the right product for your skin type and concerns.
Can people with oily skin use an emulsion on skin
If you have oily skin, you might be hesitant to use an emulsion on your face. However, the truth is that anyone with oily skin can still benefit from using this type of skincare item.
Emulsions are lightweight and contain water, making them perfect for hydrating the skin without making it feel heavy or greasy. For those with oily skin, an emulsion can actually help to balance oil production and prevent excess oil from accumulating on the skin.
In particular, look for emulsions that contain ingredients like tea tree oil, witch hazel, or salicylic acid to help regulate oil production and minimize the appearance of pores. Another benefit of using an emulsion for oily skin is that it can improve the overall texture and tone of the skin.
These products often contain antioxidants and other nourishing ingredients that can help to brighten and firm the skin, leaving it looking more radiant and healthy. When choosing an emulsion for oily skin, look for products that are specifically formulated for this skin type.
Avoid emulsions that are too thick or heavy, as these may contribute to clogged pores and breakouts. Instead, opt for lightweight, oil-free formulas that absorb easily into the skin. With the right emulsion, even those with oily skin can enjoy the benefits of this hydrating skincare product.
Try incorporating an emulsion into your daily skincare routine to see how it can improve the look and feel of your skin.
After exploring a range of Korean emulsions, I can confidently say that the best one has to be the Laneige White Dew Emulsion. From the lightweight formula to its incredible hydrating benefits, this emulsion has everything you need for flawless, luminous skin.
One of the things that sets this emulsion apart is its unique blend of skin-brightening ingredients that work to even out your skin tone and reduce the appearance of dark spots. T
he addition of hyaluronic acid helps to lock in moisture and plump up your skin, leaving it soft to the touch and radiating with health.
Another standout feature of the Laneige White Dew Emulsion is its non-greasy, fast-absorbing formula. This means that it won’t leave a residue or clog your pores, making it ideal for those with oily or acne-prone skin.
Overall, this emulsion is a game-changer for anyone looking to achieve the legendary Korean “glass skin” look. Its innovative formula and highly effective ingredients make it a must-try for anyone serious about their skincare routine.
Top Korean Emulsion 2023
Benefits of Using a Korean Emulsion on Skin
- Korean emulsion add an extra layer of hydration to your skin. This makes the skin supple and vibrant.
- Korean emulsions also strengthens the skin’s natural barrier and retains moisture
- Korean emulsions are lightweight and won’t clog your pores
- Korean emulsions are formulated to target certain skin issues like acne, wrinkles, dark spots, etc
- Emulsions are good for all skin types but those with oily skin and skin prone to acne can really benefit from it
Emulsion Vs Ampoule Vs Serum Vs Essence
Emulsions are light weight formulas that sometimes contain ingredients to target specific skin issues. Emulsions provide intense hydration to the skin and can be used instead of a moisturizer, especially for those who have oily or acne prone skin, since emulsions are water-based formulas.
Serums are thin, concentrated formula that is developed using active ingredients to target specific skin issues like acne, dark spots, skin brightening etc.
Ampoules are used once or twice a week and are not part of your daily skincare routine. Ampoules contain stronger concentration of active ingredients formulated to target certain skin concerns.
Essence lighter than serums with a somewhat watery consistency. It dissolves quickly as it has smaller molecules like serum. However, serums are more concentrated than essences.
SoonJung 10 Free Moist Emulsion
Best Korean Emulsion for Skin Repair
Sensitive skin always has to deal with rashes, redness, and irritation, even from the most harmless-looking skincare products. Etude House’s SoonJung 10 Free Moist Emulsion is just the one you need to try if you struggle with sensitive skin.
The lightweight formula hydrates the skin while it cools it down and encourages it to repair and heal itself.
Key Features:
- Contains Panthenol and Madecassoside as the active ingredients
- These ingredients heal damaged skin
- Cools the skin and helps calm irritation
- Light in consistency and spreads easily
- Hypoallergenic formula
- Very mild and safe on sensitive skin
Pros:
- Can be used for skin repair and healing
Related: You can visibly reduce dark circles with these Korean eye masks. Check it out!
ETUDE HOUSE MOISTFULL COLLAGEN EMULSION
Best Korean Emulsion for Mature Skin
You and I, both wish that our skin would stop ageing and stay plump, elastic and youthful. The culprit behind skin drying up and sagging is the breaking down of collagen. Etude House’s Moistfull Collagen Emulsion infuses the moisture from hydrolysed collagen and Baobab water to turn back time.
Key Features:
- Contains hydrolyzed collagen water and Baobab water as the active ingredients
- They moisturize the skin and leave it plump and bouncy
- Very light and watery formula
- Smoothly glides across the skin
- Gentle formula, non-irritant
- Free of mineral oil
- Has a light fragrance
- Lightly hydrating
Pros:
- Very little is required, gets absorbed quickly
- Value for money
Related: Keep acne in control with this amazing Korean serum specially formulated for acne–prone skin!
Rice & Ceramide Moisturizing Facial Emulsion
Best Korean Emulsion for Exfoliation
The key to brighter looking skin, every single day, is exfoliation. And what’s of utmost importance, is using the right exfoliator- one that is gentle, yet does the job.
Rice & Ceramide Moisturising Facial Emulsion by The Face Shop is just the right product as it not only exfoliates but also does the primary work of a lightweight emulsion – that is, hydrating the skin.
Key Features:
- Contains ceramides as the active ingredient
- Hydrates the skin and keeps it well moisturised
- Rice extract is another ingredient in the emulsion
- It gently exfoliates the skin
- Makes the skin brighter and softer
- Contains Lecithin which smoothens the skin and hydrates it
- Has antioxidants that protect the skin from environmental damage and ageing
Pros:
- A light moisturiser which brightens the skin
Related: A wash–off mask can hydrate and exfoliate your skin giving you supple skin. Check out the best ones from K-beauty brands here!
Laneige Essential Balancing Emulsion
Best Korean Emulsion for Moisturisation
One of the most popular K-beauty products brands, Laneige brings us a lightweight emulsion, the Essential Balancing Emulsion, a great addition to your skincare regime for keeping your skin hydrated, soft, and smooth.
Made from hydro-ion mineral water, this delicate moisturizer is ideal for all types of skin. Use it as it is on oily skin, and for dry skin, use it over a heavier cream or moisturizer to lock in the goodness.
Key Features:
- Made from hydro-ion mineral water
- Derived from plant based minerals
- Extracted from quinoa
- Moisturises the skin
- Has a lightweight texture that is easily absorbed by the skin
- Smoothes and softens the texture of the skin
Pros:
- Suitable for all types of skin
Related: Here gentle Korean face washes specially formulated for dry skin!
Mizon Collagen Power Lifting Emulsion
Best Korean Emulsion for Anti-Wrinkles
Age may not be kind, the environment may not be forgiving, but Mizon’s Collagen Power Lifting Emulsion is there every step of the way to tighten your skin, lift your wrinkles and make your skin softer, smoother and plumper. The collagen that is pumped into your skin, along with the hyaluronic acid, bring back its youthfulness.
Key Features:
- Contains functional collagen and raspberry extract as the primary ingredient
- Collagen makes the skin plumper, tightens it and gets rid of wrinkles
- Increases the elasticity of the skin
- Raspberry extracts act as antioxidants
- Keeps the skin away from free radical damage
- Also contains adenosine and hyaluronic acid
- Moisturises the skin and locks in the hydration
- Makes skin bouncier
- Watery formula that is smooth and easy to be absorbed
Pros:
- Improves the elasticity of the skin and keeps away wrinkles
Nature Republic Snail Solution Emulsion
Best Korean Emulsion for Anti-Ageing & Skin Repair
If you have been following the trends in the K-beauty industry, then you are not unfamiliar with snail mucin. One of the most unique ingredients that has all the potential to repair your skin, hydrate it, and keep ageing at bay, this is used widely by Korean women. The Snail Solution Emulsion by Nature Republic contains 80% snail mucin, to give you the best results, quickly.
Key Features:
- Contains 80% pure snail mucin as the main and active ingredient
- Reduces irritation of the skin, redness and rashes
- Stimulates cell regeneration and skin repair
- Also contains hyaluronic acid
- Hydrates the skin and locks in the moisture
- Smoothens the skin texture and helps fade dark spots and scars
Pros:
- An effective anti-ageing and skin repair emulsion
Related: Sunscreen should be a part of your skincare routine, even for oily skin type! Here are the best Korean sunscreens for oily skin!
Sulwhasoo Essential Balancing Emulsion
Best Korean Emulsion for Rough Skin
The Sulwhasoo Essential Balancing Emulsion is a unique formula of Korean medicinal herbs that stimulates blood circulation to keep your skin radiant and glowing. It balances the moisture levels in the skin and nourishes it to keep it healthy.
Key Features:
- Contains a blend of Korean medicinal herbs as the active ingredient
- Encourages blood circulation
- Nourishes the skin and moisturizes deeply
- Contains extracts of mountain Peony
- Softens the skin and smoothens the texture
- Lightweight, silky-smooth formula
- Spreads easily
- Gets absorbed very quickly
- Has a mild and refreshing fragrance
Pros:
- Gives the skin a radiant, honey dew glow
It’s Skin Collagen Nutrition Emulsion
Best Korean Emulsion for Firming the Skin
It all comes down to collagen at the end of the day. Right from plump and bouncy skin to skin that is free of wrinkles, collagen is what we need. The Collagen Nutrition Emulsion by It’s Skin contains marine collagen that is infused into the skin to moisturise it and revive its youth.
Key Features:
- Contains marine collagen as the main ingredient
- Increases elasticity of the skin
- Makes skin bouncier and plumper
- Also contains extracts of Saussurea laniceps
- Moisturises and cleanses the skin
- Malt extracts and Bearberry extracts contained infuse the skin with amino acids
- Strengthens the skin and nourishes it
Pros:
- Revitalises the skin and makes it more supple
Related: Here are some gentle Korean exfoliators for your skin type. Check it out!
Nature Republic Super Aqua Max Watery Emulsion
Best Korean Emulsion for Oily Skin
With Nature Republic’s wide range of skin care products, especially the long list of emulsions, formulated for every type of skin and for every issue you may want to address, you shouldn’t be surprised that I have one more on the list. The Super Aqua Max Watery Emulsion maintains the natural hydration of your skin by locking it in.
Key Features:
- Has a light watery texture
- Moisturises the skin without clogging the pores
- Maintains the balance of the natural oils and moisture produced by the skin
- Nourishes the skin
- Makes the skin more radiant
Pros:
- An ideal emulsion for combination and oily skin
Cons:
- Not suitable for very dry skin
THE FACE SHOP The Therapy Hydrating Formula Emulsion
Best Korean Emulsion for Anti-Ageing
The Therapy Hydrating Formula Emulsion is lightweight, water based and chock full of ingredients that are nourishing for your skin. Just like true therapy, this emulsion hydrates, soothes the skin and rejuvenates it.
Key Features:
- Contains a blend of honey extracts, oats, lavender extracts, basil oil and wild rose extracts as the active ingredient
- Honey extracts brighten the skin, fade scars and dark spots
- Oats extracts polish the skin and soften it
- Basil oil and wild rose extracts smoothen the complexion
- Deeply moisturises and keeps away environmental damage
Pros:
- Intensely moisturising for mature skin
Best Korean Emulsion: FAQs
What is an emulsion?
An emulsion is like a light moisturizer but has a more watery consistency. Depending on the purpose of the emulsion, it is formulated to be used either before the serum in order to enable the skin to absorb the serum, or after the serum to lock in all the goodness of the skincare products you have used.
How to use an emulsion?
Take a few drops of the emulsion and massage it into your skin gently, patting with your fingertips. Use it after your favorite Korean serum or the final layer of moisturizer to lock in all the goodness.
Does emulsion work for all skin types?
Like all skincare products, there are different types of emulsions formulated for different skin types. Emulsions are mostly water-based and very light, so these are very gentle on the skin. Emulsions are especially a good option for those with very sensitive skin or acne-prone skin as they don’t irritate the skin or clog the pores.
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