10 Best Korean Skincare Products for Winter 2025

Feb 25, 2025

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Glamglobal

Winter can leave your skin dry, irritated, and dull. Korean skincare offers solutions with hydrating and barrier-strengthening ingredients like ceramides, squalane, and hyaluronic acid. Here's a quick look at the top 10 products to keep your skin healthy this winter:

Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Oil EX: Hydrating oil cleanser that removes makeup without stripping moisture.
Laneige Cream Skin Refiner: A 2-in-1 toner and moisturizer for intense hydration.
Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Tiger Grass Serum: Reduces redness and supports skin barrier repair.
Belif The True Cream Moisturizing Bomb: Provides up to 48 hours of hydration.
Laneige Water Sleeping Mask EX: Overnight hydration with probiotics and beta-glucan.
Innisfree Lip Sleeping Mask with Canola Honey: Repairs and hydrates chapped lips overnight.
Amorepacific Time Response Eye Reserve Crème: Nourishes and protects the delicate eye area.
Klairs Fundamental Watery Oil Drop: Lightweight hydration without actual oils.
Round Lab Birch Juice Moisturizing Sunscreen: Hydrating SPF 45+ for winter UV protection.
Cosrx Balancium Comfort Ceramide Cream: Strengthens the skin barrier and locks in moisture.

Quick Comparison Table

Product	Key Benefit	Price	Best For
Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Oil	Hydrating cleanser	$40.00	Dry, sensitive skin
Laneige Cream Skin Refiner	2-in-1 toner + moisturizer	$41.65	Dry, dull skin
Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Serum	Reduces redness, repairs	$54.00	Sensitive, irritated skin
Belif Moisturizing Bomb	48-hour hydration	$38.00	Dry skin
Laneige Water Sleeping Mask	Overnight hydration	$24.00	All skin types
Innisfree Lip Sleeping Mask	Repairs chapped lips	$16.00	Dry, cracked lips
Amorepacific Eye Reserve Crème	Nourishes eye area	$260.00	Dry, aging skin
Klairs Watery Oil Drop	Lightweight hydration	$31.00	All skin types
Round Lab Birch Juice Sunscreen	Hydrating sunscreen	$28.00	Dry, sensitive skin
Cosrx Ceramide Cream	Strengthens barrier	$26.00	Normal to dry skin

These products are designed to tackle winter dryness, sensitivity, and dullness. Start layering them into your routine to keep your skin hydrated and protected all season long.

Korean Skincare Products for DRY Skin This Winter

1. Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Oil EX

Sulwhasoo

During winter, when skin craves extra hydration, the Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Oil EX is a reliable first-step cleanser. Priced at $40.00 for 200mL, this oil cleanser removes makeup and impurities while keeping your skin's moisture intact.

Its formula includes a Korean Herbal Oil Complex and Hydra Capture Complex™, featuring ingredients like apricot kernel oil, sesame seed oil, camellia japonica seed oil, and squalane. These components work together to cleanse thoroughly while helping your skin stay hydrated, even in harsh winter weather.

Consumer feedback highlights its effectiveness, with 93% of users feeling moisturized and 96% finding it comfortable to use. It boasts an impressive 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 261 reviews.

Marilyn F., a verified buyer, says: "I thought this might leave my skin oily, but it does not. My skin looks lovely and hydrated the morning after I cleanse my face. Another stellar product from Sulwhasoo!"

How to Use It in Winter

Application: Dispense two pumps onto dry skin.
Technique: Massage gently to break down makeup and impurities.
Rinse: Add lukewarm water to emulsify, then rinse thoroughly.

This cleanser’s lightweight texture transforms with water, easily removing even waterproof makeup without leaving a greasy finish. While some users mention a strong fragrance, its gentle formula makes it great for sensitive winter skin.

Camellia japonica seed oil also provides an added benefit - it helps reinforce the skin’s barrier against winter dryness, ensuring hydration lasts even after cleansing.

2. Laneige Cream Skin Refiner

Laneige

The Laneige Cream Skin Refiner is a 2-in-1 toner and moisturizer, perfect for tackling winter dryness. At $41.65 (down from $49.00) for 170ml, it combines the rich hydration of a cream with the lightweight feel of a toner.

According to clinical studies, it delivers an 836% boost in hydration instantly and ensures moisture retention for up to 120 hours. The formula uses Micro Blending Technology™ to refine Cerapeptide particles, allowing them to penetrate deeper into the skin.

Clinical Results

Here’s what users experienced after consistent use:

8.16% improvement in barrier strength over 4 weeks
40.76% reduction in redness
47.64% decrease in dead skin cells

Why It Works for Winter

The formula is packed with powerful ingredients that cater to winter skin needs:

Cerapeptide™: Strengthens the skin barrier and enhances firmness
Meadowfoam seed oil: Locks in moisture
Squalane and hyaluronic acid: Provide long-lasting hydration
Green tea and camellia flower extracts: Offer antioxidant protection

"The milky texture feels like a soft hug for my skin, instantly soothing and plumping it up with hydration." – Charlotte Cho, licensed esthetician and cofounder of Then I Met You

How to Get the Best Results

Follow these tips for optimal hydration:

Start with clean, slightly damp skin.
Gently pat the product onto your face and neck, focusing on dry areas.
Wait about two minutes for full absorption.
Use it as a mist during the day for extra hydration when needed.

What Users Are Saying

With a 4.80/5 rating from 112 reviews, it’s clear this product has won fans. One user shared, "It fixed my irritated skin in 3 nights and helps restore the skin barrier". When paired with a moisturizing cream, it boosts hydration by 180%. However, those with oily skin should use it sparingly, as the formula can feel quite rich.

3. Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Tiger Grass Serum

Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Tiger Grass Serum, priced at $54.00 for 30ml, is designed to tackle redness and sensitivity caused by harsh weather. It’s been shown to improve skin barrier repair by 126% within just one hour.

Key Ingredients and Their Roles

This serum's power lies in its carefully chosen ingredients:

Centella Asiatica extracts: Help calm irritation.
Allantoin: Soothes and protects sensitive skin.
Niacinamide: Strengthens the skin's natural barrier.
Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide: Offer SPF 35 protection.

User Feedback and Clinical Results

With a 4.7/5 rating from 530 reviews, users praise its ability to reduce redness, improve hydration, and provide relief from winter-related sensitivity. Many also note that their skin feels stronger and more comfortable after use.

"Centella asiatica is an herb found in Asia that has been used in eastern medicine for various health benefits. It's rich in saponins, which are like nature's anti-inflammatories and have been shown to calm irritated skin and aid in wound healing." – Joshua Zeichner, M.D., director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mt. Sinai Hospital in New York City

How to Use It in Winter

Incorporate this serum into your daily routine to combat winter skin issues:

Morning: Apply after cleansing but before your moisturizer.
Evening: Layer it under your night cream to boost skin barrier repair.
Extra Tip: Keep it in the fridge for a cooling effect that reduces inflammation.

For even better results, pair it with the Cicapair™ Sensitive Skin Moisturizer Cream. The serum’s lightweight, fast-absorbing formula is free from parabens, formaldehydes, phthalates, mineral oil, and sulfates, making it a great choice for sensitive skin during colder months.

4. Belif The True Cream Moisturizing Bomb

Belif

Belif's The True Cream Moisturizing Bomb ($38.00 for 50ml) provides hydration for up to 48 hours, making it a solid choice for combating winter dryness. Its lightweight, whipped texture is specifically designed to tackle seasonal skin challenges.

Key Ingredients and What They Do

This cream packs a powerful mix of ingredients that work together to boost skin health:

Peptides and Ceramides: Strengthen and repair the skin's moisture barrier.
Squalane: Helps retain moisture and enhances skin elasticity.
Comfrey Leaf: A standout element in the exclusive Napiers Formula.

Backed by clinical studies and user testimonials, this blend ensures both immediate and lasting results.

Clinical Findings and User Feedback

Performance Metric	User Agreement
Noticeable improvement in skin dryness	100%
Boosted moisture barrier	100%
Strengthened skin barrier	100%
Reduced damage from moisture loss	100%

These results highlight its ability to effectively address winter-related skin issues. With an average rating of 4.7/5 from user reviews, it’s a trusted option.

Tips for Winter Use

Apply it after serums but before heavier creams or oils.
Gently pat the cream onto your skin to improve absorption.
Start with a small amount and add more as needed.

This cream not only provides instant relief but also helps protect your skin’s barrier from the harsh effects of winter dryness.

5. Laneige Water Sleeping Mask EX

The Laneige Water Sleeping Mask EX ($24.00) is a nighttime skincare treatment designed to hydrate and repair your skin while you rest. Here's what makes it stand out:

Advanced Formula

This mask features the proprietary Sleeping Microbiome™, packed with 23.8 billion probiotics, an Enhanced Probiotics Complex, and hydrating ingredients like glycerin, squalane, and beta-glucan. These components work together to boost your skin's defenses and lock in moisture overnight.

Clinical Results and User Feedback

Performance Metric	User Agreement
Skin feels more hydrated	100%
Skin texture feels smoother	100%
Makeup applies better	94.11%
Improved sleep experience	91.17%

Studies confirm that this mask significantly enhances skin hydration and texture.

Star Ingredients

This mask is powered by:

Malachite Extract: Offers antioxidant protection.
Tranexamic Acid: Helps brighten the skin.
Beta-Glucan (0.1%): Supports skin repair.
Lactobacillus Ferment: Provides anti-inflammatory benefits.

How to Use It

Apply a generous layer as the last step in your evening routine. Its lightweight gel texture absorbs quickly without leaving a sticky feel. Plus, the hypoallergenic formula is perfect for sensitive skin. It's free from mineral oil, PEG surfactants, and synthetic dyes.

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6. Innisfree Lip Sleeping Mask with Canola Honey

Innisfree

The Innisfree Lip Sleeping Mask with Canola Honey is designed to tackle dry, chapped lips, especially during the colder months. With an impressive 4.7/5 rating from 485 reviews and 98.2% customer satisfaction, it’s a go-to solution for keeping lips soft and hydrated.

Key Ingredients That Work

This lip mask combines a variety of ingredients that deeply hydrate and protect your lips:

Canola Honey: Acts as a natural humectant and provides antimicrobial care.
Canola Seed Oil: Locks in moisture while nourishing the skin.
Mango Seed Butter: Delivers long-lasting hydration.
Flavonoids: Help maintain lip elasticity.
Petrolatum: Forms a barrier to shield lips from external damage.

How It Works Overnight

The formula is designed to work while you sleep, restoring moisture and ensuring deep hydration. Its lightweight texture absorbs quickly and doesn’t feel sticky, making it ideal for combating the dryness that winter weather brings.

Benefits You Can Expect

This lip mask provides multiple advantages:

Deep Hydration: Keeps lips moisturized by drawing in and retaining water.
Protection: Shields lips from cold, harsh conditions.
Repair Support: Includes proteins that help maintain elasticity.
Antimicrobial Care: Aids in preventing infections in cracked lips.

How to Use It

Apply a generous amount before bed for overnight hydration. You can also use it as a base under lipstick during the day. Enriched with Jeju Canola Honey and nourishing oils, it’s a reliable defense against winter dryness.

7. Amorepacific Time Response Eye Reserve Crème

Amorepacific

Winter calls for extra attention to eye care, and the Amorepacific Time Response Eye Reserve Crème delivers with a 4.7/5 rating from 91 verified users. Designed to combat dryness and sensitivity, this high-end eye cream combines a rich texture with powerful ingredients to protect and rejuvenate the delicate eye area.

Advanced Formula for Winter Care

The crème features AbsoluTea™ technology, packed with amino acids and catechins, which work together to nourish and protect. Key ingredients like niacinamide, caffeine, ginseng root extract, and adenosine help brighten the skin, reduce puffiness, shield against oxidation, and improve firmness. These carefully chosen components ensure your eyes stay protected and refreshed all winter long.

Benefits Tailored for Cold Weather

Provides deep hydration without heaviness
Shields against harsh winter conditions
Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
Boosts skin firmness and elasticity
Locks in moisture for lasting hydration

How to Use It

Use the included spatula to apply morning and night.
Gently pat a small amount around the eye area using your ring finger.
For added depuffing, store it in the refrigerator.

Customer Feedback

"This is the only eye cream that is so moisturizing and stays put for as long as I wear it." – Wendy M., Verified Buyer

At $260.00 for 0.51 oz, this crème offers a high-end solution to winter's toughest challenges for your skin.

8. Klairs Fundamental Watery Oil Drop

Klairs

The Klairs Fundamental Watery Oil Drop is a go-to option for keeping your skin hydrated during winter. Despite its name, this product doesn't contain any actual oils, making it a great choice for all skin types.

At $31.00 for a 50ml bottle, this serum is packed with ingredients like green tea leaf water, ceramides, and peptides. It also features sodium hyaluronate, known for holding up to 1000 times its weight in water, ensuring your skin stays moisturized. This formula is designed to tackle common winter skincare challenges effectively.

Here’s what makes it stand out:

Green Tea Extract: Offers antioxidant protection.
Ceramides: Help reinforce the skin's natural barrier.
Rice Extracts: Soothe and nourish the skin.
Kelp Extracts: Provide essential minerals.
Sodium Hyaluronate: Keeps moisture locked in.

The serum is free from artificial fragrances, colors, parabens, sulfates, mineral oil, alcohol, essential oils, and silicone, making it a safe option for sensitive skin.

To use, apply 1-2 drops after your water-based serums and before your moisturizer. Its gel-like texture absorbs quickly, creating a lightweight barrier that protects your skin from the cold without feeling heavy.

With an impressive 4.5/5 star rating from 37 verified reviews, it’s a favorite among users.

"I've been enjoying the use of this lightweight oil serum. It's very hydrating, it's super light, & it hasn't caused any breakouts or reaction to my sensitive acne-prone skin. It has no scent that I can detect when I use it either."

9. Round Lab Birch Juice Moisturizing Sunscreen

Round Lab

Perfect for winter, this sunscreen combines strong UV protection with deep hydration. Priced at $28.00, it offers broad-spectrum SPF 45+ coverage, making it a great choice for snowy weather.

The formula is packed with Betula Platyphylla Japonica Juice (birch sap), which helps tackle winter dryness and supports the skin's barrier. Key ingredients include:

Niacinamide: Helps brighten skin and lock in moisture
Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate: Calms irritated skin
Allantoin: Soothes stressed skin
Sodium Hyaluronate: Provides long-lasting hydration
Glycerin: Strengthens the skin's moisture barrier

With a 4.7/5 rating from 519 verified reviews, this sunscreen is praised for its lightweight, non-greasy texture. It's easy to layer under makeup, won’t pill, and leaves no white cast.

"I love how moisturizing this is. It protects the skin from UV with no white cast and keeps my skin from drying out." – Susan N.

Round Lab also offers value bundles to elevate your winter skincare:

Sunscreen + Birch Moisturizing Cream: $57.60 (originally $64.00)
Complete Winter Protection Trio (includes 1025 Dokdo Toner): $64.80 (originally $81.00)

User feedback highlights its hydrating properties (50% approval) and quick absorption (53% approval). It's especially helpful for winter dryness and sensitive skin, though users with combination skin may find the hydration level moderate.

For best results, use this sunscreen as the last step in your morning routine. Its sweat-resistant formula keeps your skin protected and hydrated during outdoor winter activities.

10. Cosrx Balancium Comfort Ceramide Cream

Priced at $26.00, the Cosrx Balancium Comfort Ceramide Cream is a reliable winter moisturizer featuring 10,000 ppm of Ceramide NP. Ceramides make up about 50% of the outer skin lipids, playing a key role in maintaining your skin's barrier and hydration levels. This cream has a matte balm texture that absorbs quickly, making it perfect for layering with other products.

Its formula includes:

Ceramide NP: Helps reinforce the skin barrier and lock in moisture.
Centella Asiatica Leaf Water: Calms irritated skin.
Centella Asiatica Medical Grade Extract: Reduces redness and aids in skin repair.

This cream is designed to balance oil and moisture while improving skin elasticity - ideal for tackling the common hurdles of winter skincare.

"Over our lifetime, our skin faces a multitude of daily external stressors that can impact its barrier function. This is why I believe it's never too soon (or too late!) to include ceramide-containing products or ones that boost their production, in our beauty routines." – Pedro Catalá, founder of Twelve Beauty

How It Addresses Winter Skin Issues

Skin Concern	Solution Provided
Barrier Damage	Ceramide NP strengthens and repairs the skin barrier.
Dryness	Forms a protective layer to retain moisture.
Sensitivity	Gentle on normal-to-dry skin; patch testing advised for very sensitive skin.
Inflammation	Centella Asiatica soothes and reduces irritation.

To incorporate this cream into your winter routine, apply a pea-sized amount after serums and before sunscreen in the morning. At night, use it as the last step in your skincare regimen. Its lightweight yet nourishing texture makes it a great choice for normal to dry skin. For those with sensitive skin, patch testing is recommended.

The cream is EWG Verified, adding an extra layer of safety for use during harsh winter months. While the niacinamide content is low, you can easily pair it with a separate niacinamide product if needed.

How to Use These Products in Winter

Layer your skincare products thoughtfully to keep your skin hydrated and protected during the colder months.

Morning Routine

Start your day with a gentle cleanse using lukewarm water - hot water can strip your skin of its natural oils. While your skin is still damp, apply the following products in order:

Laneige Cream Skin Refiner
Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Tiger Grass Serum
Amorepacific Time Response Eye Reserve Crème
Klairs Fundamental Watery Oil Drop
Choose a moisturizer: Belif The True Cream Moisturizing Bomb or Cosrx Balancium Comfort Ceramide Cream
Finish with Round Lab Birch Juice Moisturizing Sunscreen

Let each product absorb for about 30 seconds before moving to the next step. If you're outside, reapply sunscreen every two hours.

Evening Routine

In the evening, follow a similar routine but focus on deeper hydration by layering products from the lightest to the heaviest:

Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Oil EX
Laneige Cream Skin Refiner
Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Tiger Grass Serum
Klairs Fundamental Watery Oil Drop
Your moisturizer of choice: Belif or Cosrx
End with Innisfree Lip Sleeping Mask

Weekly Treatments

To combat the drying effects of indoor heating, use Laneige Water Sleeping Mask EX 1-2 times a week as the last step in your nighttime routine.

Extra Tips for Winter

Use a humidifier, avoid hot water, and drink plenty of water daily to maintain hydration.
Allow each product to fully absorb before layering the next.
Opt for richer creams on particularly cold days.
Pay extra attention to sensitive areas like your lips and under-eye skin.

These steps will help your skin stay hydrated and protected, even in harsh winter conditions.

Conclusion

Maintaining hydration and supporting your skin's barrier are essential for thriving through harsh winter conditions. The products we've highlighted tackle key winter skin concerns, whether it's strengthening your moisture barrier or calming sensitive skin.

"Skin needs vary daily, and instead of boxing yourself into a set skin type, it's so important to listen to our skin and treat that day's concerns with the right products".

For a solid winter routine, layer lightweight hydrators, use targeted treatments, and seal everything in with a protective moisturizer. Finish off with Round Lab Birch Juice Moisturizing Sunscreen to protect against winter UV rays. As Sarah Chung Park, founder and CEO of Landing International, puts it:

"The K-Beauty market is just on the cusp of hitting the U.S. big time".

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