
Hype or Holy-Grail: Is This Viral K-Beauty Product for You?
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3 min
by Alanna Chen
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3 min
If you’re anything like me, you’re probably no stranger to the seasonal turnover of K-beauty products and it’s hard not to feel influenced to buy them as soon as it hits your FYP.
Reviewers start swearing by the product, influencers rave about results, but then you open the comment section and… it’s a little bit of a mixed bag. “Omg new holy grail I’m obsessed!” but right next to “Ugh broke me out don’t try” leaves you just as confused as me.
It starts to make you wonder: Is all this hype actually real, or are these just internet trends, dressed in pretty packaging?
In all honesty, there’s no product that’s a one-size-fits-for-all. Different ingredients and formulas suit different skin types, target different concerns, and all the little quirks of your skin play a massive factor in whether something becomes your next holy-grail or next big regret. Let’s break it down, so we can figure out what’s worth a spot on your bathroom shelf.
The juicy product exposé:
What’s the buzz? You heard it, they felt it - VT Cosmetics Reedle Shot 100 shot to TikTok fame after being dubbed “micro-needling in a bottle” after giving users similar results. How? This product contains Cica Reedle, a Centella Asiatica complex with advanced delivery that boosts repair and soothes from deep within the surface of your skin.
Reedle Shot 100 is perfect for those who want to refine the appearance of pores and smooth uneven skin texture - the addition of Centella makes this suitable for sensitive skin and safe for everyday use.
If you’re after something that simply rebuilds your skin barrier, we recommend something simpler, without the tingly micro-needles! The Mixsoon Soondy Centella Asiatica Essence is 100% Centella Asatica, and a great option for those healing from acne and irritation
Quirky, clean and easy-to-use, the Dr. Althea Pure Grinding Cleansing Balm’s claim to fame was for its unique packaging! Influencers (and the rest of us) were obsessed with the grinding concept, which produced beautiful ribbons of cleansing balm that melted into your skin upon contact.
The product is more than just looks! The rich blend of Camellia Seed and Grape Seed Oil ensures makeup is dissolved, without stripping moisture - making it perfect for those with dry, sensitive or combination skin, and a great prep before your nightly routine.
If you have oily skin and are worried about clogged pores, opt for something lighter with soothing ingredients and oil-control - Abib Pore Cleansing Oil Heartleaf Oil-Wash will remove your makeup yet won’t strip your skin.
The Anua Azelaic Acid 10% Hyaluron Redness Soothing Serum soared through socials for being the ‘acid for sensitive skin.’ Tutorials raved about its wonders for redness, rosacea and blemishes thanks to the multitasking powerhouse aka. Azelaic Acid! With the help of Hyaluronic Acid, this product is also able to hydrate in addition to soothe.
For skin types looking to soothe and rid redness but don't have to compromise on hydration, this product is a win! When dryness is the culprit to your skincare troubles, long-lasting moisture is crucial to restoring balance.
New to Azelaic Acid? Start with the NINELESS A-Control Azelaic Acid Toner which contains 5%, with the added bonus of Niacinamide and Snail Mucin to strengthen your barrier and get you back to glowing.
Drenched in love for its abundance of hydration and ‘blur filter’ abilities, the Eqqualberry Swimming Pool Toner had us refreshing our feeds for something different - but it wasn’t raved about for no reason! The product is a huge hit for its Protease Enzymes that gently remove dead skin cells, and Hyaluronic Acid to keep hydration in all day.
Great pick for surviving seasonal dryness or sensitivity, and are looking for smooth and fresh skin without overdoing it on the exfoliation! The addition of their5-Berry Complex also provides antioxidants for extra protection to keep your barrier healthy and strong.
Oily and clogged up, rather than dry and flaky? Consider something like ILSO Super Melting Sebum Softener which targets stubborn sebum and clears pores - without pulling or squeezing! Gentle, clearing and doesn't enlarge your pores (like your typical nose patches).
What’s the verdict? Your skin is as unique and complex as the rest of you - what works magic for your best friend might not do the same for you! Treat your skin like your dating life; sometimes it takes a little trial and error but it’s about finding who matches your priorities and makes you feel good.
Popularity aside, consider your skin’s needs, type and ingredients you can get by before swiping your card at checkout. Worth the hype or fame in a bottle, the best holy-grail is one that works for you.
Let the holy-grail hunt begin, Beauties x
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