Summer in the UK might not be tropical, but your skin still craves hydration, protection, and radiance. That’s where the magic of Korean skincare comes in. Lightweight yet powerful, K-beauty products are designed to nourish, protect, and enhance your natural glow — without feeling heavy or greasy.
Here are the top 5 Korean skincare beauty heroes that every UK skincare lover should have in their summer routine:
1. COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF50+ PA+++
Why it’s magic:
This ultra-light yet deeply hydrating Korean sunscreen is your skin’s best defence against harmful UV rays. Enriched with aloe vera leaf extract, it provides instant soothing relief while doubling as a daytime moisturiser. It absorbs effortlessly, leaving zero white cast — a major win for deeper skin tones and makeup wearers.
Why UK buyers love it:
Unlike many traditional sunscreens that feel greasy or clog pores, this K-beauty bestseller is non-comedogenic, fast-absorbing, and great even for acne-prone or sensitive skin types.
Power benefit:
✔ Broad-spectrum protection + calming hydration in one bottle
Perfect for:
Morning routines, sensitive skin, everyday sun exposure
2. Beauty of Joseon Ginseng Essence Water
Why it’s trending:
Say goodbye to dull skin! Infused with 80% ginseng root water, this Korean essence is your skin’s secret weapon for a vibrant, revitalised glow. It helps improve elasticity, fade pigmentation, and protect against environmental stress — perfect for UK summers when city pollution meets dry air.
Ingredient spotlight:
Ginseng is a traditional Korean herbal remedy known for its anti-aging properties. This product combines that tradition with a modern, skin-friendly formulation that works beautifully under serums or moisturisers.
Power benefit:
✔ Boosts radiance + reduces fine lines
Perfect for:
Post-cleansing hydration, tired or sun-stressed skin, layering in 10-step routines
3. Beauty of Joseon Red Bean Water Gel (100 ml)
Why it’s a cult fave:
Designed for combination and oily skin, this moisture-infuser relies on red bean extract to hydrate, soothe, and calm inflammation. Lightweight, gel-based texture that absorbs instantly without stickiness — much like the Vitamin Tree Water Gel. Refreshing and breathable, it’s perfect for warmer UK days or post-SPF application.
Similar benefits:
Brightens & balances oil control
Non-greasy, fast-absorbing hydration
Budget-friendly hydration hero
Power benefit:
Refreshes, hydrates, and soothes — ideal for summer or oily skin
Perfect for:
Dehydrated, combination, or oily skin in search of clean, cooling moisture
4. COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser
Why you’ll love it:
This gentle yet powerful cleanser is a holy grail K-beauty staple — and with good reason. Formulated with tea tree oil and natural BHA, it helps unclog pores and reduce oil without stripping your skin barrier. Its low pH formula (around 5.5) matches your skin’s natural acidity, helping to maintain balance all summer long.
Morning & night hero:
While it’s called a “morning” cleanser, this multitasker works beautifully in the evening too — especially after SPF or light makeup. It’s also safe for teenage or hormonal skin thanks to its soothing, non-irritating formula.
Power benefit:
✔ Clears pores + balances skin pH
Perfect for:
Sensitive skin, double cleansing, humid or sweaty summer days
5. Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum: Propolis + Niacinamide
Why it’s iconic:
This bestselling Korean serum is formulated with 60% propolis extract — a natural ingredient known for its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and moisture-retaining benefits. Combined with 2% niacinamide, it helps fade dark spots, boost brightness, and calm redness, making it a top pick for UK skincare lovers dealing with uneven tone or dullness.
Did you know?
While green tea soothes and hydrates, this serum goes a step further — giving your skin a honey-kissed glow, improved texture, and added barrier support. It’s especially effective during seasonal skin changes or when your skin looks “flat” and tired.
Power benefit:
✔ Brightens, calms, and deeply hydrates without heaviness
Perfect for:
Dry or combination skin, post-acne recovery, glow-seekers
Shop Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum
Final Thoughts:
Korean skincare is loved globally for a reason — it delivers results without compromise. These 5 standout Korean skincare products have been handpicked for UK skincare lovers who want healthy, radiant, protected skin all summer. Whether you’re new to K-beauty or already building your 10-step routine, these essentials will upgrade your summer skincare game.
Ready to revamp your summer skincare?
Check out our “Summer Skin Survival Kit” — featuring all the stars from this list in one limited-edition bundle!
