Korean Moisturizer Cream

Using a Korean moisturizer is, above all, choosing a cosmetic that is gentler, more sensory, and better suited to the skin's real needs. Unlike many Western creams, which are sometimes too rich or too aggressive, Korean face creams rely on deep moisturizing active ingredients, ultra-light textures, and formulas often free of alcohol, heavy silicones, or irritating fragrances. The result: the skin is moisturized without being suffocated, even for sensitive or combination skin.

Additionally, Korean face creams fit perfectly into a complete routine, where each step is designed to prepare the skin to better receive hydration. By adopting this type of care, you promote more supple, luminous, and lastingly balanced skin. It's an excellent entry point for anyone looking to take care of their skin without overloading, favoring the quality, lightness, and science of Korean skincare. And if you're unsure about which to choose, our free skin diagnosis will guide you to the best Korean moisturizer for your skin type.

To get the most out of a Korean moisturizer , it's essential to apply it to clean, ideally still slightly damp, skin. This helps seal in moisture and optimize the penetration of the active ingredients. So start with a good cleanser , then a toner or essence , possibly a serum , and then finish with your face cream . Place a small amount of product in the palm of your hand, warm it slightly between your palms, then apply in gentle movements from the center of your face to the outside.

Moisturizing face creams should be used morning and night, unless otherwise indicated. Some Korean women's face creams are formulated for nighttime use (richer, more nourishing), while others are ideal for daytime use thanks to their gel texture or mattifying finish. Listen to your skin's needs throughout the seasons: in winter, it will probably require a more cocooning cream, while in summer, a lighter treatment will suffice. At Holy Skin , we help you choose the right Korean face cream according to the time of day and your skin type.

It all depends on your skin type and needs, but some Korean moisturizers have clearly established themselves as must-haves thanks to their effectiveness, their star ingredients and their sensory texture. At Holy Skin, we tested, compared, loved... and here is our selection of the best Korean face creams .

1. COSRX - Advanced Snail 92 All In One Cream

Ideal for dehydrated, dull, or scarred skin. Its formula, concentrated in snail mucin (92%!), helps regenerate the skin, smooth fine lines, and restore elasticity. A perfect face cream for those who want a “new skin” effect without a greasy texture.

2. Beauty of Joseon – Dynasty Cream

A cult favorite in Korea, this women's face cream ticks all the boxes: rich but non-greasy, hydrating without stickiness, it brightens the complexion and strengthens the skin barrier thanks to rice, ginseng, and niacinamide. Suitable for all skin types, even sensitive.

3. Dr. Althea – 345 Relief Cream

A gem for sensitive, reactive, or redness-prone skin. With its 3 types of hyaluronic acid and 45 soothing botanical extracts, it deeply hydrates while calming inflammation. The Korean moisturizer we recommend for stressed skin.

4. Medicube – Collagen Jelly Cream

For skin lacking firmness, this hydrating face cream boosted with plant-based collagen offers an immediate tightening effect. Its gel texture is ultra-comfortable, and its plumping action is visible from the first few weeks. Perfect for anti-aging routines.

💡 Need help choosing the Korean face cream that's best for your skin? Take our free skin diagnosis —in just 2 minutes, you'll get a personalized routine with the Korean cream made just for you !

This is strongly discouraged. An expired face cream can not only lose its effectiveness, but also cause unwanted reactions: redness, pimples, tightness, and even allergies. Most face creams have an expiration date or a best before date (BEF), often 6 to 12 months . After this time, the formula can oxidize, the preservatives lose their effectiveness, and the active ingredients deteriorate.

So it's best to play it safe. If your Korean moisturizer has changed its scent, texture, or has suspicious buildup, throw it out. That said, since most Korean face creams come in reasonable sizes (30 to 60 ml), it's rare that you'll be left with them for too long. Just remember to close the jar tightly and store it away from heat and light.

It is possible to moisturize your face without directly using cream, but be careful: the cream plays a key role as a protective barrier . That said, other alternatives exist to provide hydration: hydrating mists, hyaluronic acid serums, ampoules, or sheet masks. These products are often very present in the K-beauty routine, and offer intense aqueous hydration , ideal in summer or for oily skin that fears overly rich textures.

However, without a facial moisturizer , this moisture is likely to evaporate quickly. That's why it's recommended to "seal in" the moisture with a light Korean face cream , even if it's a thin layer. A moisturizing face cream is the last essential step in an effective routine. If you're looking for more fluid or airy alternatives, Holy Skin also offers Korean creams with a gel or milky texture, perfect for those who want to moisturize without a greasy effect.