How to Choose Korean Skincare for Sensitive Skin

For sensitive skin, rather than assuming “Korean cosmetics are gentle,” it’s safer to choose based on the formula and how you use it. New releases that combine ingredients that may cause irritation, such as fragrance, essential oils, high concentrations of acids, or retinol, are worth avoiding when your skin is feeling unsettled. When checking the ingredient list, it’s easier to choose if you start with something simple that contains moisturizing and skin-conditioning ingredients such as glycerin, panthenol, and ceramides.

Don’t add several new products at once. Test one on your arm or elsewhere first, then apply a small amount to part of your face; if there are no problems, move on to regular use. If it stings or redness appears, rinse it off and stop using it. For sunscreen, too, don’t decide based only on a “for sensitive skin” label; it’s a good idea to check how easily it washes off and whether it contains fragrance. If you have a painful rash or a sudden worsening, don’t wait and see with skincare—see a dermatologist.