best korean serum for sensitive skin

15 BEST KOREAN EYE CREAMS FOR HYDRATED, FIRMER UNDEREYES

Looking for a solution to dehydrated, tired-looking under eyes? Look no further than the innovative world of K-beauty! Korean eye creams are renowned for their potent ingredients and focus on gentle yet effective hydration. Whether you’re concerned with fine lines, puffiness, or dark circles, there’s a perfect K-beauty eye cream waiting to brighten and revitalize your precious under-eye area.

In this guide, we’ll unveil the 15 best Korean eye creams to quench your under-eye thirst and leave you looking refreshed and radiant. We’ll explore a variety of options, catering to different concerns and budgets, so you can find the perfect formula to transform your under-eye game. Get ready to discover the secret to achieving that coveted youthful, wide-awake gaze – Korean eye cream style!

BEAUTY OF JOSEON REVIVE EYE SERUM WITH GINSENG + RETINAL

The Beauty of Joseon Revive Eye Serum with Ginseng + Retinal combines Korean ginseng, known for its anti-aging properties, with a gentle form of retinol to target wrinkles, dark circles, and puffiness. This innovative formula promises to brighten, firm, and hydrate the delicate under-eye area, making it a great choice for those looking to combat visible signs of aging around the eyes. Remember to consult a dermatologist before using a new retinol product in your routine.

GOODAL GREEN TANGERINE VITA C DARK CIRCLE EYE CREAM

Formulated with Green Tangerine extract, rich in Vitamin C, Goodal’s Green Tangerine Vita C Dark Circle Eye Cream aims to tackle stubborn dark circles and under-eye wrinkles. This gentle formula promises to brighten and improve elasticity in the delicate under-eye area, leaving you with a refreshed and more radiant look. Suitable for all skin types, this cream is a great option for those seeking a natural approach to combating signs of fatigue around the eyes.

HARU HARU WONDER BLACK RICE BAKUCHIOL EYE CREAM

Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Bakuchiol Eye Cream offers a plant-derived alternative to retinol. Formulated with fermented black rice and Bakuchiol, a gentle retinol alternative, this cream targets wrinkles and signs of aging around the eyes. It also boasts natural ingredients like bamboo shoot extract and ginseng to hydrate and nourish the delicate under-eye area. This fragrance-free and cruelty-free formula is suitable for all skin types, even sensitive ones.

MEDICUBE DEEP REVIVING PEPTIDE EYE CREAM

Medicube Deep Reviving Peptide Eye Cream promises to hydrate and revitalize your under-eyes. This fragrance-free formula is packed with a high concentration of peptide complex, aiming to improve the appearance of puffiness, dark circles, and fine lines. Suitable for all skin types and seasons, it can even be used on your entire face for a youthful boost. Apply it after cleansing and toning for a refreshed and well-rested appearance.

TORRIDEN – CELLMAZING FIRMING EYE CREAM

Torriden’s CELLMAZING Firming Eye Cream targets concerns of aging and fatigue around the eyes. This fragrance-free cream is formulated with a 5D Collagen Complex and botanical extracts to improve elasticity, reduce wrinkles, and diminish puffiness. It promises to leave your under-eyes feeling firmer, smoother, and more youthful.

YUNJAC WHOLE PLANT EFFECT EYE CONCENTRATE

Yunjac’s Whole Plant Effect Eye Concentrate boasts a unique philosophy, utilizing the power of whole plants rather than isolated extracts. This rich formula is packed with active substances and growth energy derived from various plant parts – roots, stems, flowers – for a holistic approach to under-eye care. Inspired by the skin’s natural mechanisms, the concentrate promises to revitalize circulation, improve elasticity, and address concerns like wrinkles and dark circles. This fragrance-free formula caters to those seeking gentle yet effective Korean skincare solutions.

FRAIJOUR – RETIN-COLLAGEN 3D CORE EYE CREAM

Fraijour’s Retin-Collagen 3D Core Eye Cream takes a multi-pronged approach to under-eye rejuvenation. It combines Retinal Liposome, a gentle form of retinol, with 7 layers of collagen to tackle wrinkles, loss of elasticity, and signs of fatigue. This innovative formula aims to plump and firm the delicate under-eye area, while also improving its overall tone and texture. Suitable for those looking for a targeted approach to combating visible signs of aging, the cream promises to leave you with a brighter, more youthful, and well-rested appearance.

AHC TEN REVOLUTION REAL EYE CREAM FOR FACE

AHC’s TEN REVOLUTION Real Eye Cream for Face is a multi-tasking wonder that transcends the boundaries of traditional eye creams. This innovative formula boasts a double duty approach – targeting concerns around the eyes while also being suitable for application on your entire face. Packed with 25 types of peptides and fermented ingredients, it promises to improve elasticity, diminish wrinkles, and brighten the overall complexion. This fragrance-free cream caters to those seeking a streamlined skincare routine and a product that delivers visible results for both the eyes and face.

SOME BY MI – RETINOL INTENSE ADVANCED TRIPLE ACTION EYE CREAM

Some By Mi’s Retinol Intense Advanced Triple Action Eye Cream tackles concerns like wrinkles, dark circles, and puffiness with a powerful yet gentle formula. This fragrance-free cream features 0.1% Retinol, a potent anti-aging ingredient, encapsulated in a slow-release system to minimize irritation. Combined with Collagen and Tripeptide Complex, it aims to improve elasticity, reduce the appearance of fine lines, and brighten the under-eye area. This K-beauty favorite caters to those seeking effective results while keeping sensitivity in mind. Remember, consulting a dermatologist before introducing retinol to your routine is always recommended.

BENTON FERMENTATION EYE CREAM

Benton Fermentation Eye Cream offers a gentle yet effective approach to under-eye care. This fragrance-free formula utilizes fermented ingredients, known for their anti-aging and nourishing properties, to improve hydration, elasticity, and overall skin texture. Benton’s cream focuses on strengthening the delicate under-eye area, aiming to diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Suitable for all skin types, this lightweight and fast-absorbing cream provides a touch of moisture without feeling greasy, making it a great choice for those seeking a comfortable and effective daily eye cream.

SKIN 1004 – MADAGASCAR CENTELLA PROBIO-CICA BAKUCHIOL EYE CREAM

SKIN 1004’s Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Bakuchiol Eye Cream offers a soothing and restorative solution for fatigued under-eyes. This fragrance-free formula combines the calming properties of Centella Asiatica (commonly known as centella) with Bakuchiol, a plant-derived retinol alternative, to target wrinkles and signs of aging. Probiotics are included to help balance the skin’s microbiome, potentially reducing puffiness and irritation. This lightweight cream aims to leave your under-eyes feeling hydrated, soothed, and revitalized, making it ideal for those with sensitive skin or concerns about irritation.

DR. DIFFERENT VITALIFT-A EYE & NECK

Dr. Different Vitalift-A Eye & Neck Cream is a Korean skincare solution designed to combat signs of aging in two delicate areas – the eyes and neck. This night cream features a gentle form of retinol, called retinal, to target wrinkles, fine lines, and loss of elasticity. Combined with a complex of 11 peptides, it aims to stimulate collagen production and improve the overall firmness and texture of the skin. Suitable for those seeking a targeted approach to anti-aging around the eyes and neck, Dr. Different Vitalift-A Eye & Neck promises to leave you with a smoother, more youthful appearance.

MARY&MAY – TRANEXAMIC ACID + GLUTATHIONE EYE CREAM

Formulated with brightening powerhouses Tranexamic Acid and Glutathione, MARY&MAY’s Tranexamic Acid + Glutathione Eye Cream tackles concerns like dark circles and uneven skin tone around the eyes. This fragrance-free and lightweight cream promises to target hyperpigmentation and discoloration, leaving you with a brighter and more even under-eye area. Suitable for all skin types, it boasts a gentle yet effective formula that can be a great choice for those seeking to combat stubborn dark circles and achieve a radiant look.

SHAISHAISHAI BANANA CONCEAL EYE CREAM

Shaishaihai Banana Conceal Eye Cream utilizes banana extract, known for its potassium content, to potentially brighten and hydrate the under-eye area. This cream is claimed to offer good coverage for blemishes and imperfections while also aiming to improve the appearance of wrinkles with peptides and collagen. However, due to limited information on the product’s ingredients and scientific backing, further research might be necessary to determine its effectiveness.

HEIMISH – MARINE CARE EYE CREAM WITH RETINOL

Heimish Marine Care Eye Cream with Retinol offers a revitalizing approach to under-eye care, combining the power of marine extracts with retinol. This fragrance-free cream is designed to target concerns like wrinkles and loss of elasticity, while also providing deep hydration. However, the specific marine extracts and their benefits aren’t readily available, making it difficult to assess their targeted functionality. For those seeking a retinol cream for the under-eyes, Heimish Marine Care Eye Cream could be an option, but researching the complete ingredient list and consulting a dermatologist beforehand is always recommended.

HOW TO APPLY A KOREAN EYE CREAM 

Unlocking the full potential of your Korean eye cream lies not just in the product itself, but also in the application technique. Unlike moisturizers for your face, the delicate under-eye area requires a gentle touch. Here’s how to apply your Korean eye cream for optimal results:

CLEANSE AND PREP

Just like any skincare step, start with a clean and prepped canvas. Wash your face with your usual cleanser and pat it dry with a soft towel. Apply any toners or essences you use in your routine, allowing them to absorb completely before moving on to the eye cream.

LESS IS MORE

A pea-sized amount of product is all you need! Korean eye creams are typically concentrated, so a little goes a long way. Dispense a small amount onto the back of your clean hand or your ring finger.

THE PATTING TECHNIQUE

Use your ring finger to gently pat the product onto the under-eye area. This delicate patting motion helps stimulate circulation and minimizes tugging on the thin skin. Start from the inner corner of your eye, where puffiness is more common, and pat outwards towards your temple. Don’t forget to cover the entire under-eye area, but avoid applying too close to your lash line to prevent irritation.

BE GENTLE

The under-eye area is extremely delicate, so resist the urge to rub or drag the product. This can cause irritation and even worsen wrinkles over time. Use a gentle tapping motion and allow the cream to absorb fully before applying any makeup.

MORNING AND NIGHT

Most Korean eye creams can be used twice a day, both in the morning and at night. In the morning, applying eye cream after your moisturizer and before sunscreen helps create a smooth base for makeup. At night, applying eye cream before bed allows the product to work its magic while you sleep.

BONUS TIP

For an extra cooling and depuffing effect, store your Korean eye cream in the refrigerator. Just remember to take it out a few minutes before application to avoid shocking the delicate under-eye area.

By following these simple steps, you can ensure you’re getting the most out of your Korean eye cream and keeping your under-eyes hydrated, youthful, and radiant.

CONCLUSION

Wondering how to get rid of puffy eyes or lines under your eyes? Eye cream is a temporary makeup solution for you. (Note that makeup is only temporary. To be able to solve that situation, you must take specific corrective measures.

There you have it – your ultimate guide to the 15 best Korean eye creams for a brighter, more youthful under-eye area! With a variety of formulas targeting concerns like wrinkles, dark circles, and puffiness, there’s a perfect K-beauty pick for every skin type and budget. Remember, consistency is key! Apply your chosen eye cream morning and night, following the gentle patting technique, and witness the transformative power of Korean skincare.

For even more dramatic results, consider incorporating other K-beauty staples into your routine, like facial essences or sheet masks. With dedication and the right products, you can achieve those coveted youthful, wide-awake eyes and radiate confidence from within.

So, what are you waiting for? Dive into the world of Korean eye creams and discover the secret to a more radiant and revitalized under-eye area!

12 OF THE BEST WATER BASED PRIMERS, ACCORDING TO MAKEUP ARTISTS 

In the world of makeup, a good primer is the unsung hero. It creates a smooth canvas for your foundation, helps it last longer, and can even address specific skin concerns. But with so many primers on the market, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. If you’re looking for a lightweight and hydrating option, then a water-based primer might be the perfect fit. Here’s a look at some of the top picks according to makeup artists, designed to give your foundation a flawless finish and keep it looking fresh all day long.

WHAT IS A WATER BASED PRIMER?

A water-based primer is a makeup product formulated with water as the main ingredient, unlike silicone-based primers. This makes them:

Hydrating: The water content helps keep your skin from drying out, which can be especially beneficial for those with normal, dry, or combination skin. If your skin is too dry, pay attention to adding a moisturizing mask to your face, especially Korean face masks for hydrated and glowy skin.

Lightweight: Water-based primers feel lighter on the skin compared to silicone-based ones.

Less likely to clog pores: The lighter formula is generally less likely to clog pores, making them a good option for those with oily or acne-prone skin.

BEST WATER BASED PRIMERS

MILK MAKEUP HYDRO GRIP PRIMER

If you’re looking for a water-based primer that ticks all the boxes, the MILK MAKEUP Hydro Grip Primer is a popular choice among makeup artists. This award-winning gel primer is all about longwear hydration. Hyaluronic acid and niacinamide plump and hydrate the skin, while blue agave extract acts like a magnet to grip your makeup for up to 12 hours. It’s also vegan, cruelty-free, and free of common irritants like silicone, oil, fragrance, and gluten, making it suitable for most skin types.

ILIA, TRUE SKIN RADIANT PRIMING SERUM 

Focusing on more than just makeup application, ILIA’s True Skin Radiant Priming Serum bridges the gap between skincare and cosmetics. This silicone-free formula is a great option for those with sensitive skin or those who prefer a natural approach. It combines skincare benefits with a priming effect. Packed with nourishing ingredients, the serum helps to firm, moisturize, and soothe the skin while protecting it from environmental aggressors. It also boasts a subtle, radiant finish that creates a flawless base for your makeup. Like other water-based primers, it’s lightweight and absorbs quickly, leaving a soft, touchable feel.

PEACE OUT INSTANT PORE PERFECTOR

Peace Out’s Instant Pore Perfector goes beyond just a basic water-based primer. While it is lightweight and formulated without pore-clogging silicone, it offers more than just hydration. This multitasking product acts as a primer and a treatment in one. The key ingredient is a special hyaluronic acid blend that plumps and hydrates skin, instantly blurring the appearance of pores. It also tackles redness with its formula containing niacinamide. But Peace Out doesn’t stop there.  This product boasts long-term benefits too, with ingredients like mushroom extract that work to refine skin texture over time. So, if you’re looking for a water-based primer that minimizes pores, reduces redness, and offers lasting results, the Peace Out Instant Pore Perfector could be your new makeup must-have.

ELTAMD, UV DAILY TINTED BROAD-SPECTRUM SPF 40 

EltaMD UV Daily Tinted Broad-Spectrum SPF 40 falls into a different category compared to the other products mentioned so far. It’s not specifically a primer, but rather a tinted sunscreen. While it can provide some smoothing and evening of skin tone due to the tint, its primary function is sun protection.

This product is a good option if you’re looking to streamline your morning routine. It combines broad-spectrum SPF 40 protection with a hint of color, potentially eliminating the need for a separate sunscreen and primer.  However, it’s important to note that sunscreen should always be applied generously and evenly, which might not be ideal if you’re aiming for a lightweight priming effect.

If you have dry or combination skin and prioritize sun protection, the EltaMD UV Daily Tinted could be a good fit. However, for those seeking a dedicated primer with pore-minimizing or other targeted benefits, this product might not be the best choice.

ARMANI BEAUTY LUMINOUS SILK HYDRATING MAKEUP PRIMER

Armani Beauty’s Luminous Silk Hydrating Makeup Primer is a luxurious option for those seeking a radiant and hydrating base. This lightweight formula, suitable for all skin types, combines skincare and makeup benefits.  Like other water-based primers, it provides a surge of hydration with ingredients like shea butter and glycerin, leaving your skin feeling soft and supple.

However, where the Luminous Silk Hydrating Primer truly shines is in its ability to enhance radiance. It utilizes a unique technology to capture and reflect light, creating a subtle, natural glow that complements your foundation. This primer is perfect for achieving the signature “lit-from-within” look that Armani Beauty is known for. If you have dull or dry skin and want a primer that promotes a radiant and flawless canvas, the Luminous Silk Hydrating Makeup Primer is definitely worth considering.

MAYBELLINE, FACESTUDIO MASTER PRIMER 

Maybelline’s Facestudio Master Primer is a drugstore favorite that offers a budget-friendly option in the world of water-based primers. This color-correcting primer comes in a variety of targeted versions to address specific concerns.

Looking for a blurring effect to minimize pores and imperfections? They have a “Blur + Smooth” version. Want to combat redness? Try the “Blur + Redness Control.”  Each version utilizes lightweight, water-based formulas to create a smooth canvas for makeup application while addressing your unique skin concerns.

Given the variety of options and its affordable price point, the Maybelline Facestudio Master Primer is a great choice for those who want to experiment with water-based primers and find the perfect fit for their skin type and makeup goals.

TOO FACED HANGOVER REPLENISHING FACE PRIMER

Targeting those late nights and early mornings, Too Faced Hangover Replenishing Face Primer promises to be your beauty sleep in a bottle. This hydrating, water-based primer is formulated to combat the signs of fatigue and dehydration. Enriched with coconut water, electrolytes, and probiotics, it aims to revive and replenish your skin, leaving it looking bright and healthy.

Whether you’ve had a long day or a short night, the Hangover Primer aims to create a smooth and dewy canvas for your makeup. If you have dry skin or tend to experience dehydration, and want a hydrating primer with a touch of radiance, this Too Faced option could be worth a try.

SMASHBOX, PHOTO FINISH PRIMERIZER+ 

Smashbox’s Photo Finish Primerizer+ is a multi-tasking primer that combines the benefits of hydration with skincare-inspired ingredients. This water-based formula features a key ingredient: triple hyaluronic acid. This powerhouse hydrator plumps and hydrates the skin for up to 72 hours, ensuring a smooth and comfortable canvas for makeup application.

But the Photo Finish Primerizer+ goes beyond just hydration. It also boasts niacinamide, a vitamin B3 that helps strengthen the skin’s barrier and protect it from environmental aggressors like pollution and blue light.  This primer is suitable for all skin types, but those with dry or dehydrated skin might especially appreciate its long-lasting hydration benefits.

SHISEIDO SYNCHRO SKIN SOFT BLURRING PRIMER

Shiseido’s Synchro Skin Soft Blurring Primer is a water-based primer that promises a flawless, soft-focus finish. Designed to be lightweight and universally flattering, it tackles multiple concerns to create the perfect canvas for your makeup. Its Light Diffusion Technology utilizes light-diffusing powders to blur imperfections and create a smooth, airbrushed appearance.  

For those with oily skin, mattifying peptides and sebum-absorbing powder work together to keep shine in check throughout the day. But hydration isn’t forgotten –  the formula boasts ingredients that provide up to 8 hours of moisture, ensuring a comfortable wear. So, if you’re looking for a water-based primer that minimizes imperfections, controls shine, and keeps your makeup looking fresh all day long, the Shiseido Synchro Skin Soft Blurring Primer is definitely worth considering.

LAURA MERCIER, PURE CANVAS PRIMER 

Laura Mercier’s Pure Canvas Primer is another strong contender in the water-based primer category. This silicone-free formula caters to a variety of skin types, offering a breathable, hydrating base for your makeup. Like many water-based primers, it boasts long-lasting wear – up to 16 hours according to the brand –  helping your makeup stay fresh and vibrant throughout the day.

While Laura Mercier offers a few variations within the Pure Canvas line, the core benefit remains consistent:  hydration.  The Pure Canvas Primer aims to improve the look of bare skin over time with its skincare-infused formula. This makes it a great option for those who want a primer that goes beyond makeup application and offers a touch of skincare benefit.

HONEST BEAUTY EVERYTHING PRIMER, GLOW

Honest Beauty’s Everything Primer, Glow caters to those who want a radiant, all-in-one base. This water-based primer is infused with hyaluronic acid, a powerful hydrator that plumps and smooths the skin’s surface. But the glow doesn’t stop there. Mica, a light-reflecting mineral, gives your skin a subtle, luminous finish, perfect for achieving a dewy look. Honest Beauty doesn’t forget about nourishment – the primer also includes a blend of fruit extracts like watermelon, apple, and lentil, along with two types of hyaluronic acid to provide deep and lasting hydration.  This vegan and cruelty-free option is suitable for all skin types and aims to prep, brighten, and hydrate your skin for a fresh, healthy-looking complexion that’s primed for flawless makeup application.

MAKE UP FOR EVER, STEP 1 PRIMER SHINE CONTROL 

Designed for normal, combination, and oily skin types, Make Up For Ever’s Step 1 Primer Shine Control is a mattifying water-based primer. This lightweight formula minimizes shine and mattifies the complexion, creating a smooth canvas for makeup application. It’s formulated without oil or silicone, making it suitable for oily and acne-prone skin types. If you struggle with excess oil throughout the day and want a water-based primer that keeps shine in check, Make Up For Ever’s Step 1 Shine Control Primer could be a great choice.

BENEFITS OF USING A WATER-BASED PRIMER

Water-based primers offer a variety of advantages over their traditional, solvent-based counterparts. Here’s a breakdown of some key benefits:

Lightweight and Breathable: Water-based primers feel lighter on the skin compared to silicone-based ones. This is because they use water as the main solvent, resulting in a more comfortable and breathable wear, especially beneficial for normal, dry, or combination skin types.

Hydration Hero:  Many water-based primers are packed with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin. This helps to keep your skin from drying out throughout the day, ensuring a smooth and plump canvas for makeup application.

Less Likely to Clog Pores: Due to their lighter, water-based formula, these primers are generally less likely to clog pores compared to silicone-based primers. This makes them a good option for those with oily or acne-prone skin.

Farewell to Fumes:  Water-based primers are known for their low odor or lack thereof. This is a major benefit for those who are sensitive to strong smells or have respiratory concerns.

Easy Cleanup:  Cleaning up after application is a breeze with water-based primers. Simply use soap and water to wash away any residue from your brushes or sponges. No harsh solvents or special cleansers are required.

WHEN NOT TO USE A WATER-BASED PRIMER?

While water-based primers offer many advantages, there are situations where they might not be the best choice. Here’s when you might want to consider a different primer option:

VERY OILY SKIN

If you have extremely oily skin, a water-based primer might not provide enough mattifying power to control shine throughout the day. In this case, a mattifying silicone-based primer could be a more effective option for shine control.

SEALING STAINS

Water-based primers aren’t the strongest when it comes to sealing stubborn stains like watermarks or tannins on wood. If you’re priming a surface with such stains, a solvent-based primer might be necessary to create a good barrier.

EXTREME WEATHER CONDITIONS

Water-based primers may not be the most durable option for very humid or cold environments. If you’ll be wearing makeup in extreme weather, a more heavy-duty, weatherproof primer might be a better choice.

CRACKED OR DAMAGED SURFACES

For surfaces with cracks or significant damage, a water-based primer might not fill in the gaps effectively. Opt for a thicker, filler primer in these cases to create a smooth and even base.

CONCLUSION

So, that concludes our look at 12 of the best water-based primers according to makeup artists.  With a variety of options to choose from, there’s a perfect primer out there for almost any skin type and makeup need. Whether you’re looking for long-lasting hydration, a radiant finish, or shine control, a water-based primer can provide a smooth, prepped canvas for flawless makeup application.  Consider your skin type, makeup goals, and budget when making your choice, and don’t be afraid to experiment to find the water-based primer that works best for you!