When stepping into the world of Korean skincare, deciding on the right brand can be overwhelming. Beauty of Joseon, CosRx, and Anua are three solid contenders, each offering exceptional products catering to a variety of skin concerns. Whether you’re combatting oily skin, seeking anti-aging benefits, or looking to protect your skin during cold winters, this guide has got you covered. Let’s break down what each brand brings to the table and how to build a routine that works for you.

Understanding Your Skin’s Needs

Your routine should address your specific concerns effectively. Here’s a breakdown of the three main concerns you mentioned:

1. Oily Skin – Focus on lightweight, non-comedogenic products that control oil while keeping skin hydrated.
2. Anti-Aging – Choose products that boost collagen, improve skin elasticity, and target fine lines.
3. Cold Climate – Skincare in colder weather requires deep hydration to prevent dryness and maintain a healthy barrier.

With these goals in mind, let’s explore what these brands offer.

Brand Breakdown

Beauty of Joseon

Known for its beautiful formulations inspired by traditional Korean beauty, Beauty of Joseon excels at nourishing the skin while tackling specific concerns.

• Best Products for You:
  • Dynasty Cream: Perfect for cold weather, this moisturizer is rich yet light, with niacinamide to control oil.
  • Glow Serum (Propolis + Niacinamide): Adds hydration while balancing sebum production.
  • Green Plum Cleanser: Great for a gentle yet effective cleanse.

CosRx

CosRx is a cult favorite for its simple, no-nonsense approach to skincare. They prioritize functionality with proven ingredients that deliver results.

• Best Products for You:
  • Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Essence: Sounds quirky but its hydrating and healing effects can’t be beaten.
  • Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser: Perfect for oily skin as it cleanses without stripping your barrier.
  • BHA Power Liquid: Helps with clogged pores and oily skin but go slow with it initially.

Anua

Anua has gained recent popularity through TikTok, but its products are more than just hype. They focus on gentle formulations with natural ingredients, particularly for sensitive or oily skin.

• Best Products for You:
  • Heartleaf 77% Toner: Calms irritation, balances oil, and preps the skin beautifully for the next steps.
  • Heartleaf Spot Gel: For calming redness and balancing sebum in targeted areas.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Brand	Best For	Star Ingredients	Top Pick for You
Beauty of Joseon	Hydration, anti-aging	Niacinamide, Propolis	Dynasty Cream, Glow Serum
CosRx	Oily skin, hydration, repair	Snail Mucin, BHA	Low pH Cleanser, Snail Mucin Essence
Anua	Sensitivity, oil balance	Heartleaf Extract	Heartleaf 77% Toner

Crafting Your Routine

Here’s a starter routine that includes the best products from these brands.

1. Cleanser – Beauty of Joseon Green Plum or CosRx Low pH Gel Cleanser (AM/PM).
2. Toner – Anua Heartleaf 77% Toner (AM/PM).
3. Essence – CosRx Snail Mucin Essence (AM/PM).
4. Serum – Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum for daytime; switch to something calming like their Calming Serum if irritation occurs (AM/PM).
5. Moisturizer – Beauty of Joseon Dynasty Cream for rich hydration (PM).
6. Sunscreen (AM) – This is a must for anti-aging and overall skin health!

Q&A Section

Q1. Should I use all products from one brand?
Not at all! Mixing and matching gives you the flexibility to use the best products from each brand while tailoring your routine to individual concerns.

Q2. How should I introduce new products into my routine?
Add one product at a time, starting with every other day to see how your skin reacts. This reduces the risk of irritation.

Q3. Do I need eye cream?
Not urgently if you’re starting out. Many serums and essences are gentle enough to use around the eyes. You can always add one later if needed.

Q4. How long until I notice results?
Patience is key! You’ll likely notice some hydration and glow within a week or two, but anti-aging effects may take up to three months or more. Stick with it!

With this guide, you’re ready to explore Korean skincare with confidence. Your skin will thank you for the thoughtful care and attention you’re investing in it!