The way to the blemish-free complexion of your favourite K-pop star: keep pores clear of sebum and dirt. These days, we’re seeing more chemical exfoliators, many of which are gentle enough for daily use or sensitive skin. Physical exfoliants have upped their game too, with ultra-fine grains that make them effective, not abrasive.
The way to the blemish-free complexion of your favourite K-pop star: keep pores clear of sebum and dirt. These days, we’re seeing more chemical exfoliators, many of which are gentle enough for daily use or sensitive skin. Physical exfoliants have upped their game too, with ultra-fine grains that make them effective, not abrasive.
SKIN REFINERS
● Readers’ Choice 1. For Beloved One Mandelic Acid Advanced Renewal Serum
Mandelic acid – an alpha- hydroxy acid derived from bitter almonds – is the key ingredient in this gentle peel. Oil-soluble, it helps clean out pores and lighten dark spots without irritating sensitive skin.
● Editors’ Choice 2. Sisley Intensive Serum with Tropical Resins
A blend of salicylic acid and extracts of botanicals such as incense, myrrh, burdock and meadowsweet work to unclog pores and improve cell turnover for a smoother and more refined skin texture. Apply the serum all over the face or use it as a spot treatment.
PURIFYING MASKS
● Readers’ Choice 3. Origins By All Greens Foaming Deep Cleansing Mask with Green Tea, Spirulina and Spinach
This creamy, self-foaming green clay mask has antioxidant- rich superfoods to help strengthen the skin barrier so it can better defend against environmental aggressors such as pollution.
● Editors’ Choice 4. Biotherm Wonder Mud
Ghassoul clay gives this mask a silky, mousse-like feel when applied. Vitamin E and astaxanthin give skin an antioxidant boost, while finely crushed apricot stones gently exfoliate without a scratchy feel. Use this twice weekly for more refined skin texture and improved clarity.
BARELY-THERE PHYSICAL EXFOLIATORS
● Readers’ Choice and Editors’ Choice 5. Cle de Peau Beaute Cleansing Clay Scrub
This mineral-rich clay- based cleansing scrub exfoliates and draws out impurities without being harsh on skin. Replace your usual cleanser with this once or twice a week to maintain soft, glowing skin.
DEEP-CLEANSING WASH
● Readers’ Choice and Editors’ Choice 6. Biore Marshmallow Whip Deep Clean Facial Wash
One pump produces a mochi-sized amount of dense foam that’s enough for the whole face. Post- cleanse skin feels clean but not tight, and stays shine- free for three hours after.
PURIFYING MASKS
● Readers’ Choice 7. Vichy Pore Purifying Clay Mask
Not all clay masks are drying. This one has kaolin and bentonite clay to reportedly reduce sebum production and remove impurities, as well as a soothing cocktail of aloe vera extract and mineral- rich thermal water to calm and moisturise skin.
● Editors’ Choice 8. Dr Wu Zero Oil Mattifying Capsule Mask with Sebaryl
Ten minutes with this mask leaves your complexion impressively matte for the entire day. It has shine- reducing ingredients such as zinc and avocado oil extract, and hydrating sodium hyaluronate so skin won’t look parched.
