By know we understand that the basis of a good skin care routine is using a cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen. Yet, what takes a skin care routine from good to impeccable requires proper research and top-notch formulas that do more than we could ever imagine. That’s why the beauty world is obsessed with Korean skin care brands. Beyond providing "glass skin"—with consistent use, of course, “Korean skin care focuses on technology, research, and ingredients. Moisturization, in particular, is the heart of it,” explains Stephanie Ferreira, the US Brand Manager of Ohui.
Korean moisturizers, in particular, emphasize the importance of barrier support and moisture. According to Dr. Claire Chang, a board-certified dermatologist at UnionDerm in New York City, Korean moisturizers have amassed an international following due to their soothing and nourishing ingredients. “Korean moisturizers tend to be gentle and use natural ingredients, making them suitable for a broad range of skin types. There is also a wide selection of moisturizers to choose from. Even within the same brand, there are moisturizer options for younger, mature, dry, and oily skin,” she explains.
Top picks for the best Korean moisturizers in 2025
Ready to find your Korean moisturizer match? To ensure that the process isn’t overwhelming (there are countless options to choose from), we spoke to two trusted experts, tested formulas on our own faces, and read through customer reviews to bring you the best Korean moisturizers for soft, hydrated skin, no matter the season.
Pros
Lightweight, fast-absorbing texture
Cons
Can feel a little sticky
Beauty of Joeson is the brand du jour, not only because of its TikTok fame but also because of the impressive results its products bring—its moisturizer is no different. Formulated to balance oil and keep skin moisturized, the lightweight cream is packed with ginseng root water and rice bran water for the ultimate hydration surge.
Key ingredients: Rice bran water, ginseng root water
Size: 3.38 fl oz
Amazon rating: 4.5/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “I have really sensitive skin and for the past few weeks, I have had a dry and sensitive face that feels vulnerable to the elements (wind, humidity, sun, heat damage, stress). This works sooooo well on my skin. This cream Is so light and deeply hydrating/nourishing, and for the price point you really cannot get better! It feels nice on my skin when I apply it. It doesn't have a smell. My skin feels nice after. Highly recommended!”
Pros
Soothing and cooling feel
Cons
Some users note it can pill
This cooling jelly cream, meant to be used with your Medicube Age-R Booster devices, imparts a burst of hydration to dry, stressed, or dull skin. It's backed by a powerhouse team of brightening and smoothing agents, like niacinamide, hydrolyzed collagen, and squalane.
Key ingredients: Niacinamide, squalane, hydrolyzed collagen
Size: 3.71 fl oz
Amazon rating: 4.4/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “My entire nighttime routine is slowly becoming a Medicube family. From the plumping Age-R wand to this cream, my skin has never looked more supple and softer. I love this cream because it's lightweight and cooling, and adds an extra layer of plumpness following any of my skin device sessions. When I wake up, I don't look nearly as tired as I feel.”—Nerisha Penrose, beauty commerce editor
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Pros
Absorbs quickly
Cons
May not be suitable for very oily skin
According to Ferreira, this Korean moisturizer “gives the aqua jelly skin effect. It cools, hydrates and plumps in just 10 seconds,” she says. You can use it night and day for a burst of moisture, which comes from ingredients like hyaluronic acid.
Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, niacinamide
Size: 1.69 fl. oz.
Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars
Our expert says: “Belif’s products have never done me wrong. When I want something hydrating that plays well with skin care and makeup products, this moisturizer is a no-brainer. I know that it won’t irritate my sensitive skin, and it just leaves my face feeling soft and nourished.”—Carol Lee, beauty writer
Pros
Helps with skin texture
Cons
May not be suitable for very dry skin
Hidden inside this elegant jar is a sophisticated formula that harnesses the power of the ginseng berry, the precious fruit of the ginseng tree. As we age, our skin loses elasticity and lines become more pronounced, but this formula firms and smooths to counteract those effects over time.
Key ingredient: Ginseng berry
Size: 2.02 fl. oz.
Sulwhasoo rating: 4.7/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “I took a long weekend in an alpine mountain town and had dry skin for the first time. My lips were peeling, but thanks to this, my skin was as bouncy and moisturized as ever. It has a nice gel-cream texture, so it feels light but it actually packs a hydrating punch. I like that it contains vitamin C, which offers great antioxidant protection, too.”—Kathleen Hou, ELLE beauty director
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Pros
Works well under makeup
Cons
Some may dislike scent
Then I Met You derived the brightening vitamin C in this formula from Hallbong, a sweet orange from Jeju Island, South Korea. The soft, airy formula has been dubbed a “barrier cream” for its ability to support and protect the skin barrier.
Key ingredients: Vitamin C, ceramides, squalane, omega fatty acids
Size: 1.69 fl. oz.
Soko Glam rating: 4.6/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “I’m lucky enough to have tried a lot of fancy moisturizers for work, and this one really stood out to me for its super silky texture. The formula doesn’t feel thick or cloying, but feels and looks exactly like what a fancy lady would have on their vanity.”—Kathleen Hou
Pros
Hypoallergenic
Cons
Can feel a bit sticky
Dr. Chang recommends this one for dry and irritated skin. “It’s formulated with snail secretion filtrate, which studies show may help with skin repair and hydration, as well as panthenol to moisturize and soothe the skin,” she says. If you haven’t tried snail mucin yet, be prepared to be wowed by its healing powers.
Key ingredients: Snail mucin, hyaluronic acid, betaine
Size: 7.05 oz.
Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “If there is one thing that is true about me, it's that I go through moisturizers like water. Having very dry skin, a hydrating cream that gives me a healthy, dewy glow is a must. This moisturizer has a slimy gel-like feel that applies smoothly to the skin without feeling sticky. I notice a glass skin look throughout my day whenever I use this, and my skin feels comfortable and hydrated.”—Tasha Nicole Smith, ELLE beauty assistant
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Pros
Non-comodogenic
Cons
May not be suitable for very oily skin
Aestura has sold millions of tubes of this formula, and—in fact—one cream is purchased every 20 seconds. “It contains a blend of a powerful combination of hydrating ingredients, including ceramide, glycerin, cholesterol, and fatty acids to help replenish the skin and provide long-lasting moisture,” shares Dr. Chang.
Key ingredients: Ceramides, fatty acids
Size: 2.7 fl. oz.
Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “I’ve hit pan on a bunch of moisturizers and never batted an eye—tears welled in my eyes when I reached the bend-and-squeeze-out-every-last-drop portion of my journey with this Aestura barrier cream. I am obsessed with retinol, which means my skin needs to be primed and protected more than usual to prevent any irritation or damage to its barrier. This cream is basically a soothing hug for stressed, irritated skin; whenever I over-exfoliate—we’ve all been there, especially those troubled with acne-prone skin—I smooth this over my face and go to sleep knowing my skin will be calmed by the morning.”—NP
Pros
Provides instant relief for dry skin
Cons
Some may dislike scent
This moisturizer contains two powerful, hydration-encouraging ingredients: ceramides and panthenol. The former helps your skin retain moisture, while the latter is an emollient that both hydrates and soothes the skin.
Key ingredients: Ceramides, panthenol
Size: 1.69 fl. oz.
Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars
Our expert says: “My skin has been sensitive since I was a teenager, and it’s been known to throw temper tantrums in the form of rosacea flare-ups and acne. One of the few moisturizers that have been able to tame my skin’s wild ways is this Dr. Jart+ star, which was my first introduction to the healing and moisturizing powers of ceramides.”—Carol Lee
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Pros
Fragrance-free
Cons
May not be suitable for acne-prone skin
After a long day outside battling the elements, your skin will appreciate the embrace of a calming, moisture-rich moisturizer like this one. “The SoonJung 2x Barrier Intensive Cream is a highly nourishing cream that contains shea butter, glycerin, sunflower seed oil, and panthenol to hydrate and repair the skin barrier,” says Dr. Chang. Another notable ingredient is Centella Asiatica, which fights inflammation.
Key ingredients: Panthenol, madecassoside
Size: 2.02 fl. oz.
Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “This moisturizer has become a staple in my daytime skin care routine! It’s so light and airy, yet packs a surprising punch of hydration. My skin feels moisturized and balanced without any heaviness or greasy finish, which makes it perfect under makeup or on its own. It absorbs quickly and leaves my skin feeling soft and comfortable all day. If you’re looking for a gentle, lightweight moisturizer that still provides great hydration, I can’t recommend this enough!”
Pros
Hypoallergenic
Soothing
Cons
May not be suitable for extremely sensitive skin
Laneige may be most well-known for its lip masks, but many of its other products are pros at keeping the rest of your face moisturized and dry patch-free. Infused with hydrating hyaluronic acid and squalane as well as plumping peptides, this option is a no-brainer for anyone who needs a boost of moisture—especially during the colder months. The packaging is also refillable, so you can just pop out the old pod and insert a new one when you’re ready.
Key ingredients: Blue hyaluronic acid, omega peptide complex, squalane
Size: 1.6 fl. oz.
Sephora rating: 4.7/5 stars
A Sephora reviewer says: “I was a bit hesitant on spending so much on a moisturizer, but let me say I am so glad I did. You really do get what you pay for, and this is the best moisturizer I’ve ever used. It is definitely worth the money. I have very temperamental, sensitive skin. Sometimes, my skin is just fine, and sometimes it is incredibly dry. I get dry patches that will stay for days no matter how much moisturizer I use or how often I apply. But with this moisturizer, I have had consistently soft, silky skin. I bought the Cream Moisturizer first (light blue packaging), and it is amazing too. Neither moisturizer has broken me out, which is usually the problem I have with thick moisturizers. If you’re on the fence, get this! You won’t regret it.”
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Pros
Non-greasy finish
Cons
May be too thick for acne-prone skin
The oft-mentioned skin barrier keeps moisture in and environmental pollutants and other unwanted invaders out. This Korean moisturizer is designed to strengthen your barrier’s defenses. It’s gentle enough to use on your face and body, and you can slather it on babies, too.
Key ingredients: Ceramides, fatty acids
Size: 6.76 fl. oz.
Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “I’ve been using the Illiyoon Ceramide Ato Concentrate Cream for a few weeks now, and it’s become a must-have in my skin care routine. The rich, creamy texture feels incredibly nourishing, providing deep hydration without being too heavy or greasy. It’s formulated with ceramides that help strengthen my skin barrier, making it perfect for my dry, sensitive skin. I’ve noticed that my skin feels softer and more resilient, with less redness and irritation. The cream absorbs well and has a subtle, pleasant scent that doesn’t overwhelm. Overall, it’s been a fantastic addition to my skin care lineup, especially for colder weather or when my skin needs extra moisture.”
Pros
Light, pleasant scent
Cons
May not be suitable for acne-prone skin
Although it feels lightweight on the skin, this moisturizer provides long-lasting moisture you can feel well after you’ve applied it. According to Ferreira, the formula boosts “skin’s moisturization by 161 percent immediately,” she says.
Key ingredients: Ceramides, glycerin, shea butter
Size: 2.03 fl. oz.
Amazon rating: 4.4/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “You just can’t beat Korean skin care. I love this moisturizer. It smells great—it’s non-irritating, smooth, non-oily comforting skin care. I use it every night. My skin feels ‘dewy,’ and there are no dry areas on my face. Try it. Beautiful product.”
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Pros
Provides visible results
Cons
Some may dislike strong scent
The antioxidant-rich formula defends against free radicals, which can cause premature signs of aging, while also revitalizing the skin. Brightening and reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines are just two of the many skills this cream has up its sleeve.
Key ingredients: Pinus pamila extract, bayberry extract
Size: 1.69 fl. oz.
Amazon rating: 4.5/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “I purchased this cream and the serum and use them morning and evening. My face feels soft and isn’t dry and itchy (I have very dry skin). Within two weeks, I noticed a visible improvement in the fine lines and wrinkle reduction. Thrilled with this product.”
Pros
Fragrance-free
Cons
Some reviewers dislike jar packaging
You may have grown up concocting DIY oat face masks in your kitchen, and this moisturizer is a grown-up, everyday version of that treatment. The oats in the formula soothe any irritation, while ingredients like squalane bestow just the right amount of moisture for oily to normal skin.
Key ingredients: Oats, trehalose, squalane
Size: 2.71 oz.
Krave Beauty rating: 4.2/5 stars
A Krave Beauty reviewer says: “The perfect lightweight moisturizer for summer, especially if you have oily skin. This is one of the first skin care products I ever purchased, and I find myself coming back again and again.”
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Meet the Experts
Dr. Y. Claire Chang is a board-certified dermatologist at UnionDerm in New York City
Stephanie Ferreira is the US Brand Manager of Ohui.
How should you apply moisturizer?
Applying moisturizer correctly can ensure your skin stays maximally hydrated,” says Dr. Chang. According to our experts, you should always clean your face first. Then, go in with any toners, serums, or other products you use daily. “Apply a dime to nickel-size amount of moisturizer to your face (depending on face size and type). Apply and massage the moisturizer gently in circular motions. Do not forget to apply moisturizer to your neck and chest,” adds Dr. Chang. Always remember: “Moisturization should be the second to last step of your skin regimen—last being sunscreen!” Ferreira emphasizes.
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What skin types should use moisturizer?
At the end of the day, all skin types need moisturizer, even if your skin is so oily and you feel like it doesn’t need extra hydration. “Oily skin types should use lightweight, oil-free and non-comedogenic moisturizers that provide hydration without clogging the pores. Lotions or gels are preferable over thicker creams,” says Dr. Chang.
Meanwhile, those with dry skin will probably be happier with something that’s creamier, rich, and intensely moisturizing. “Look for a mixture of hydrating ingredients, including hyaluronic acid, glycerin, shea butter, ceramides, and petroleum jelly,” she explains. Additionally, sensitive skin requires more gentle, soothing formulas that are hypoallergenic and don’t contain fragrance that’ll exacerbate any flare-ups.
Why Trust ELLE Beauty?
As a leading publisher of fashion, lifestyle, and beauty content, ELLE.com is committed to highlighting the best products in various categories by personally testing the latest and most innovative products, interviewing countless experts, and vetting customer-loved items. For this piece, Carol Lee consulted Korean skin care experts to learn about the best Korean moisturizers. She also read through countless customer reviews and evaluated each product on their features.
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