Did you know that Korea is often hailed as the skincare capital of the world? As a French girl with a newfound passion for Korean skincare, I’d love to share my journey and perspective on how these innovative trends have transformed my approach to beauty.
Growing up in France, skincare and beauty weren’t really on my radar until my late teenage years when I discovered K-pop. France is home to some renowned skincare brands like L’Oréal, Clarins, and Lancôme. Naturally, I started experimenting with these products. However, I often felt like I was spending more money than seeing results. Consistency was a challenge, and I didn’t quite understand the importance of product order or application techniques.
Even though France is also famous for cosmetics and skincare, I have noticed that this industry is not as widespread or mainstream as it is in South Korea. However, French people are starting to get more interested in skincare, especially in ingredients. Nowadays, people tend to care more about what type of products they apply to their skin, as well as what they consume. There is a growing awareness and caution regarding product ingredients and their impact.
Although I was not particularly interested in skincare at first, that all changed when I arrived in Korea. During my first days here, I wandered into an Olive Young store and spent an hour exploring the vast array of products. A kind Korean saleswoman guided me through the selection process, and I ended up spending 150,000 won on various skincare items. The packaging, the offers like 1+1 deals, and the affordability compared to French products amazed me. In France, skincare often feels like a luxury, with products costing up to 50 euros (~75,000 won) each, making a comprehensive routine quite expensive.
In Korea, I found high-quality, affordable products and became fascinated by the intricacies of skincare. I learned about the importance of double cleansing—a concept I’d never encountered in France—and the critical role of sunscreen (which I now apply daily, a habit I highly recommend!). These new practices, along with carefully selected Korean products, significantly improved my skin.
What surprised me the most in Korea is the accessibility of skincare products and the support customers can easily get if needed. Skincare clinics, for example, are more affordable and readily available. This level of support makes a significant difference for individuals seeking to improve their skin.
I am not saying that France is lacking, but it’s evident that a young person trying to clear their skin will find it easier in Korea, where skincare is more affordable and widely available. Additionally, Korea boasts innovative technologies in several industries, and skincare is no exception. This innovation likely contributes to the growing curiosity and preference for Korean products in Western countries.
While I still appreciate certain French products, I’ve noticed that Korean skincare tends to use gentler, less harmful ingredients. For instance, brands like Cosrx and Klairs focus on minimalistic formulations that cater to sensitive skin. This is likely why Korean skincare has garnered global attention. In France, Korean brands like Cosrx, Laneige, and Innisfree are now highly popular, with stores dedicated to these products often selling out quickly.
The rise of Korean products in Western countries can also be attributed to the significant role of social media. Platforms like TikTok have been instrumental in setting new trends and boosting the popularity of K-beauty. French YouTubers and TikTokers have therefore, played a significant role in popularizing Korean skincare.
Transitioning from French to Korean skincare has been the best decision for my skin and my knowledge. I’ve learned so much about ingredients and their benefits, and my skin has never looked better.
So, whether you’re in France or Korea, I encourage you to explore the world of Korean skincare—you might just find it transformative, as I did!
