Beauty of Joseon: K-Beauty
- Kayla Smith
- May 23, 2023
- 12 min read
With Korean skincare (K-Beauty) being the all-new 'hype' in the skincare industry, I've found myself doing down the research rabbit hole. One thing I noticed, was all the talk about the Beauty of Joseon brand. I mean, not ONE single negative review- is that even possible?! As I found myself researching all of their products, I noticed that I added SO many of them to my 'Must Try Products in 2023 List' + just recently purchased several of their products (I'll post a review of those after I've used them for a bit). I decided to give an overview of each of their products to better help you determine which ones should be added to YOUR 'Must Try' list.
Beauty of Joseon is a K-Beauty brand that states it started about 6 years ago. The brand explains that it was inspired by the book ‘Regulation Book’ by Bing Heo-gak Lee. The book centered around ways to enrich women’s lives to be more convenient- skincare tips, clothing, farming, prenatal care, parenting advice, and organizing the home. Inspired by the book, Beauty of Joseon formulated products from herbal (oriental medicine) ingredients that have been used since the Joseon Dynasty. Whenever new products are developed, the brand links suitable herbal ingredients for each skip type and combines modern ingredients to create the most synergy- to make a great production with the intent of ‘giving a present’.
Ginseng Cleansing Oil
Vegan, Cruelty-free, Fragrance & Essential Oil Free
Apply 1-2 pumps of the cleansing oil and gently massage onto a dry face. Rinse with lukewarm water & follow with a foam cleanser.
Key Ingredients: Ginseng
Low pH Rice Face + Body Cleansing Bar
Find it here: Amazon
Vegan, Cruelty-free, Fragrance & Essential Oil Free
Low pH Rice Cleansing Bar- Hypoallergenic, mildly acidic cleansing soap.
After lathering with wet hands, gently massage your face and body. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
Key Ingredients: Rice Water
Green Plum Refreshing Cleanser
Find it here: Amazon
Vegan, Cruelty-free, Fragrance & Essential Oil Free
A facial cleanser containing plant-derived extracts obtained from plum and mung bean seeds with a slightly acidic formula. Due to the acidic nature of the formula, it does not provide a matte feel compared to alkaline cleansers. This is because it doesn’t damage the natural oil and moisture balance of the skin. Using a slightly acidic cleanser helps maintain a healthy skin barrier.
After removing makeup with an oil-based cleanser, use this cleansing foam as the second step in your double-cleanse.
Key Ingredients: Plum Water (24%), Mung Bean Seed Extract (3%)
Plum Water: Plums are sour and non-toxic. They reduce fever, relieve heartburn, quench thirst, and rejuvenate muscles. Plums, rich in organic acids and vitamins, have long been used as a herbal ingredient as they soften old dead skin cells and moisturize the skin.
Mung Bean Seed Extract: Mung beans are effective for exfoliating- so they were made into a face cleanser by grinding them together with red beans and rice bran. The saponin in the mung bean helps keep the skin moist as it promotes moisture production within the skin.
Suitable for all skin types.
Radiance Cleansing Balm
Vegan, Cruelty-free, Fragrance & Essential Oil Free
A balm-type cleansing oil that gently melts away makeup and sebum. It contains rice bran and various grain extracts to prevent dryness and boost moisture.
Scoop a generous amount onto dry skin and gently massage in circular motions. Rinse with lukewarm water and follow with a foaming cleanser.
It is similar to a cleansing oil, however, this balm is in a solid form.
Key Ingredients: Rice
Red Bean Refreshing Pore Mask
Find it here: Amazon
Vegan, Cruelty-free, Fragrance & Essential Oil Free
Our pores are the channels in which sebum exits our skin. Excess sebum and dead skin cells accumulate in these channels causing the pores to enlarge. To improve pores, you need to remove the dead skin cells, wash away the accumulated sebum and waste, and lower the skin’s temperature.
Pore and exfoliation is the beginning of skin care. Red beans and kaolin were selected as the main ingredients. Kaolin absorbs sebum while the red bean extract + red bean powder help with exfoliating and improving the skin’s texture. You’ll note that the red bean power appears as a ‘black powder’ in the mask formulation.
The moisturizing soft mud (clay texture) formulation helps to absorb sebum and remove wastes without causing dryness or tightness. At the same time, it promotes a refreshing + cooling feeling on the skin.
Key Ingredients: Haenam Red Bean Extract (30%)
Mung Beans + Red Beans are ground together to promote clean + clean skin. The saponin in the red beans helps with sebum absorption and act as a natural exfoliant.
After cleansing, apply evenly on a dry face. After 5-10 minutes, gently massage with lukewarm water & rinse off. (*Apply it evenly on the face until the skin does not show through).
It is recommended for those with excessive sebum secretion and those concerned about large pores.
You can use the ‘Red Bean Pore Mask to remove sebum and dead skin cells + use ‘Red Bean Moisture Water Gel’ to replenish moisture and create synergy between the pores and skin texture.
Green Plum Refreshing Toner: AHA + BHA
Find it here: Amazon
Cruelty-free, Fragrance & Essential Oil Free
Our skin goes through a process of cell turn-over, regeneration, and exfoliation every 28 days. During this process, if the dead skin cells on the skin’s surface clog the pores, inflammation may occur causing darkening of the skin tone with prevention of new cell regeneration.
This light, mild toner helps wipe away dead skin cells and sebum in the pores and on the skin surface that may linger- even after cleansing.
Green Plum Toner is ideal for AM + PM use during the first step of skin care. After sufficiently moistening a cotton pad with toner, gently wop the skin from the inside to the outside. The toner not only cleans up waste but also enhances the skin condition to allow for better absorption of the skincare products that follow in your routine.
Key Ingredients: Green Plum Water, Mung Bean Extract, AHA + BHA
Green Plum Water (25)% + Mung Bean Extract (2%): Improves skin texture and moisturizes
AHA + BHA: A mixture of Glycolic Acid (2%) and Salicylic Acid (0.5%)- can be used 2x daily to remove dead skin cells without irritating your skin.
Apricot Blossom Peeling Gel
Find it here: Amazon
Vegan, Cruelty-Free, Fragrance & Essential Oil Free
This is a gommage type exfoliant containing Prunus Mume Flower Water (19%) and plant-derived Cellulose (8%). It helps to improve skin troubles caused by rough skin texture and excess sebum.
The gommage texture minimizes skin irritation. The plant-derived cellulose is worked onto the skin to gently exfoliate dead skin cells and skin waste. It can be used on both the face and the body.
The combination of the prunus mume water + plant-derived cellulose helps the skin maintain a soft texture and moisture.
Key Ingredients: Prunus Mume Flower Water + Plant-Derived Cellulose
Prunus Mume Flower (19%), the plum blossom, contains polyphenols and flavonoids to help promote clear skin and improved moisture.
Plant-Derived Cellulose (8%), extracted from cotton, gently exfoliates dead skin cells and impurities.
Apply a good amount onto your dry face- avoiding the areas near the eyes. Massage gently for about 20 seconds. Then rinse thoroughly. Use 1-2x a week.
Green Plum Refreshing Toner: AHA + BHA
Find it here: Amazon
Discussed above.
Ginseng Essence Water
Find it here: Amazon
Vegan, Cruelty-Free, Fragrance & Essential-Oil Free
Contains 80% Ginseng Water- focuses on the benefits of ginseng (known as the ‘herb from the gods’) itself giving sufficient moisture and nutrition to the skin. Promotes a uniform skin tone by calming down the skin surface where dead skin cells occur- allowing for a brighter, smoother skin texture.
This essence also contains niacinamide which helps to balance the moisture level of the skin by improving the barrier and protect it from external stimuli. Niacinamide also helps control sebum secretion.
After cleansing, pour a few drops into your hands and pat gently onto the face. It can also be layered with serum or used as a toner with a cotton pad to wipe it off. Can be used in AM + PM skincare routine.
For a healthy skin complexion, try it with Revive Serum to maximize the efficacy of ginseng.
Key Ingredients: Ginseng Root Water (80%) + Ginseng Complex, Niacinamide (2%)
Suitable for all skin types.
Calming Serum: Green Tea + Panthenol
Find it here: Amazon
Vegan, Cruelty-Free, Fragrance & Essential Oil Free
Renewal: Enhanced soothing and moisturization
Created to help soothe skin irritated by UV rays and other external factors.
Formulated with Green Tea (antioxidant) and Mugwort (herb) to help soothe the skin. Panthenol was added to maximize the skin protection benefits and create synergy between the ingredients.
Apply 2-3 drops of serum onto the skin and pat gently to help absorption. Can be used in both AM + PM routines.
Key Ingredients: Green Tea (50%), Mugwort (30%), Panthenol (Vitamin B5, 5%)
Green Tea- soothes skin damaged by UV rays
Mugwort- provides moisture + helps soothe skin
Panthenol (Vitamin B5)- Panthenol is converted into Vitamin B5 when absorbed into the skin. It binds strongly to moisture & prevents moisture loss- effectively keeping the skin hydrated.
Suitable for all skin types- particularly designed for irritated and/or sensitive skin.
Tip: For irritation, you can pair this serum with Centella Asiatica Calming Mask containing Centella Asiatica Extract (15%).
Revive Eye Serum: Ginseng + Retinal
Find it here: Amazon
Vegan, Cruelty-Free, and Fragrance & Essential Oil Free
When we lack the protein that imparts elasticity to the dermal layer of the skin, collagen and hyaluronic acid decrease- causing wrinkles.
Studies show that Ginseng is a well-known herbal ingredient with excellent efficacy and is effective in improving wrinkles as it contains large amounts of saponins.
Retinal (Vitamin A) converts to Retinoic Acid (see blog about Retinoids). This formula used a ‘Retinal Liposome’ that was stabilized by breaking the retinal into smaller elements and enclosing them in liposomes.
It also contains natural lipids and oils such as glycerin, niacinamide, and cholesterol to create a more effective product.
After smoothing out the skin’s texture with toner, pump the serum 1-2x and apply is around the eyes- or even the entire face + neck. Recommended for PM routine only. Do not use in the same routine with other AHA/BHA/PHA products as is may increase skin sensitivity.
Key Ingredients: Ginseng Root Extract (10%), Retinal Liposome (2%)
Suitable for all skin types- with sensitive skin, use a small amount to give your skin time to adapt + increasing the amount slowly. It is recommended for those who worry about reduced skin elasticity and fine wrinkles. *If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, avoid this product as it contains retinal.
Glow Deep Serum: Rice + Alpha-Arbutin
Find it here: Amazon
Vegan, Cruelty-Free, Fragrance & Essential Oil Free
Designed for those with concerns about pigmentation and uneven (or dull) skin tone.
Contains Rice Bran Water (68%) and Alpha-Arbutin (2%) for brighter, healthier, and improved skin tone.
Rice Bran Water: Rich in amino acids and minerals helping to moisturize dry skin.
Alpha-Arbutin: Works by inhibiting the tyrosinase activity that limits the melanin production in your skin. It is also known to have 10x greater effect than regular Beta-Arbutin.
Apply 2-3 drops of serum onto the face and pat gently to aid absorption. Recommended for PM routine.
Key Ingredients: Rice Bran Water + Alpha-Arbutin
Tip: Avoid direct sunlight and store in a cool, dark place.
Revive Serum: Ginseng + Snail Mucin
Cruelty-Free, Fragrance & Essential Oil Free
Made for skin that has lost its vitality.
Ginseng Root Water (63%): The rich saponin contained in Ginseng helps quickly supply moisture deep inside the skin.
Snail Mucin (3%): A filtered/purified snail mucin secreted by snails- known to help protect damaged skin.
Also contains Centella Asiatica Extract, Mushroom Extract, and Panax Ginseng Root Extract.
Apply 2-3 drops of serum on the face and pat gently to aid absorption. Can be used in AM + PM routine. Recommended for use with Ginseng Essence Water to maximize the efficacy of ginseng.
Key Ingredients: Ginseng Root Water + Snail Mucin
Suitable for dry/oily/sensitive skin types. Designed for skin problems that result in reduced elasticity and pigmented skin.
Glow Serum: Propolis + Niacinamide
Find it here: Amazon
Cruelty-Free, Fragrance & Essential Oil Free
Made for large pores and inflamed skin.
A honey-like, thick textured serum- but doesn’t leave a sticky feeling once it’s absorbed into the skin.
Contains Propolis Extract (60%) and Niacinamide (2%): Helps control sebum secretion and promotes moisture retention.
Propolis Extract- effective for hydrating the skin and reducing inflammation.
Niacinamide: Help control sebum secretion while maintain the oil and moisture balance of the skin.
BHA (0.5%): Helps remove sebum and waste accumulated in the pores.
Apply 2-3 drops of serum onto the face and pat gently to improve absorption. Can be used in both AM + PM routine- be sure to apply sunscreen if used in the AM as it contains BHA. For textured skin, layer with Green Plum Toner to remove sebum inside and outside of the pores and provide moisture. For a subtle glow finish, layer with Dynasty Cream.
Key Ingredients: Propolis Extract + Niacinamide + BHA
Red Bean Water Gel
Find it here: Amazon
Vegan, Cruelty-Free, Fragrance & Essential Oil Free
As our skin ages, the amount of moisture and oil in the skin decreases. When the skin becomes dry, wrinkles form more easily. In a skin state where moisture is inadequate, oil becomes excessive which increases the change of inflammation. Maintaining the oil-water balance within the skin is important in promoting healthy skin.
Developed for oily skin, it has a light gel texture that focuses on moisture while reducing the oily skin feel. It contains ‘Red Bean’ which is known to help absorb sebum due to its abundance of saponins + peptides known to help improve wrinkles.
Haenam Red Bean Extract (44%): Helps with absorption of sebum while the saponin in the red bean peel helps improve skin health and elasticity.
Peptide Complex: Includes 3 types of peptides (SH-Oliogopeptide-1, SH-Oligopeptide-2, SH-Polypeptide-1) to improve skin health by helping maintain the proper amount of growth faces that naturally decrease due to aging.
Take a coin-sized amount, apply it to the skin, and dab until properly absorbed. Ideal for oily skin with excessive sebum. After using Red Bean Mask, apply this cream to replenish your skin’s moisture + create synergy with your pores and skin texture.
Key Ingredients: Haenam Red Bean Extract + Peptide Complex
Dynasty Cream
Find it here: Amazon
Cruelty-Free, Fragrance & Essential Oil Free
With its firm texture, it provides dense moisture and nourishment to help prevent skin from drying out. It is a multi-functional cream containing Rice Bran Water, Ginseng Water, Squalane, and Niacinamide. Provides a gentle, glowy finish.
Long-Lasting Moisture: Niacinamide (2%) + Squalane (2%) balances oil and moisture + protects the skin form external stimuli.
Apply proper amount of the cream to the face during the last stage of your skincare routine. Pat with your fingers to promote absorption. Can be used in both AM + PM routine.
Key Ingredients: Rice Bran Water (29%) + Ginseng Root Water (5%), Squalane (2%) + Niacinamide (2%)
Suitable for all skin types, but ideal for dry skin. Oily skin- use a ½ of a pea-sized amount vs coin-sized for Normal to Dry skin.
Does not contain silicone oils.
Ginseng Moist Sun Serum (SPF 50+)
Find it here: Amazon
Vegan, Cruelty-Free, Surfactant Free
Moist and light daily sun care that blocks UB rays + provides moisture and nourishment for healthier skin promotion.
Pump a generous amount and apply to areas of exposed skin. Reapply every 2-3 hours.
Key Ingredients: Ginseng Extract (30%) + Niacinamide (2%) + SPF and PA Protection
It is a chemical sunscreen.
Suitable for all skin types.
Matte Sun Stick: Mugwort + Camelia (SPF 50+)
Find it here: Amazon
Vegan, Cruelty-Free, Fragrance & Essential Oil Free
Non-greasy matte sun stick without any of the oily or sticky feelings.
Sebum-control silica powder regulates sebum to increase adherence + provides a matte, smooth finish without clumping. Contains Artemisia Capillaris + Green Tea Extract to help create smooth skin while maintaining moisture.
Apply to areas that need sun protection such as the face and body. Reapply every 2-3 hours.
Key Ingredients: Artemisia Capillaris/Mugwort + SPA and PA Protection.
It is a chemical sunscreen.
Suitable for all skin types- due to its matte texture, it is especially recommended for oily skin with active sebum secretion.
Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics (SPF 50+)
Find it here: Amazon
Vegan, Cruelty-Free, Fragrance & Essential Oil Free
Lightweight, creamy type of organic sunscreen.
Rice Extracts and grain fermented extracts provide moisture and nourishment to the skin- are also rich in Vitamins B, C, E, amino acids, and minerals that help moisturize dry skin and comfortably calm the skin.
After the last step of your skincare routine, evenly spread a generous amount over areas vulnerable to sun exposure. After absorption, it provides a natural glow. Reapply every 2-3 hours.
Key Ingredients: Rice Extract and Grain Fermented Extracts (30%) + SPF and PA Protection
Centella Asiatica Calming Mask
Find it here: Amazon
Vegan, Cruelty-Free, Fragrance & Essential Oil Free
Contains Centella Asiatica (15%) to help comfortably soothe the skin. Combines Green Tea Extract, Mugwort Extract, and 3 types of Hyaluronic Acid (low-medium-heigh molecular weight) to provide moisture from deep within the skin.
Thin Tencel sheet adheres closely to the skin regardless of the face shape- also highly breathable and does not clog pores while the mask is covering the face.
Use toner with cotton pads to refine your skin texture. Apply the mask to your face and leave on for 15-20 minutes. Remove the mask and pat gently with your fingertips to enhance absorption. For oily skin, you can put a light serum on after the mask. For dry skin, you can put serum and cream on after the mask.
Key Ingredients: Centella Asiatica + 3 Types of Hyaluronic Acid
Suitable for all skin types.
Breakdown of Products by Skin Concern
*Disclaimer: This post is not intended to provide diagnosis, treatment, or medical advice. Content provided on this blog is for informational and entertainment purposes only. Please consult with a physician or other healthcare professional regarding any medical or skin-related diagnosis or treatment options. Information on this website should not be considered as a substitute for advice from a healthcare/skin professional. The statements made about specific products throughout this website are not to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease. It is important that you check labels to determine if a product is right for you. Before starting any treatment at home consult a health care or skin care professional to determine if it’s right for you.
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