11 Best Korean Moisturizers of 2026, Tested and Reviewed
Since there are plenty of formulas available, we consulted dermatologists for guidance on what to look for, based on your skin’s needs. For dry or sensitive skin, board-certified dermatologist Kiran Mian, DO, FAAD, recommends using moisturizers containing glycerin, squalane, centella, and green tea extract. For acne-prone skin, she suggests looking for “oil-controlling ingredients” such as niacinamide and lighter humectants like hyaluronic and salicylic acid.
Ahead, find editor-tested picks that address everything from redness and breakouts to deep hydration and glass-skin glow. Plus, we have an expert-backed guide to choosing the right formula for you. Even better? Every moisturizer is under $50.
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Think of Aestura as Korea’s answer to CeraVe: a dermatologist-loved, sensitive skin–approved brand known for simple, effective formulas. This cream uses ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids to mimic the skin’s natural lipids, helping lock in moisture and repair the barrier. “Its ceramide blend really helps my skin hold onto hydration long-term, helping it to stay plump,” says Dr. Mian. It’s also formulated with encapsulated ceramides that give instant and long-lasting hydration.
Key ingredients: Ceramides, cholesterol, fatty acidsSize: 2.7 ozBest for skin types: Normal, dry, sensitive
One Cosmo editor says: “Working in beauty, I am constantly trying new actives, and whenever I overdo it a bit, I cut out everything in my skincare routine but a cleanser and this Aestura cream. It’s done wonders for irritation and dry, flaky patches caused by strong retinols and over-exfoliation.” —SARAH MABERRY, COMMERCE EDITOR
From over-exfoliation to unexpected breakouts and irritations, a few of our editors rely on this Relief Cream to soothe sensitized and reactive skin. It’s safe for sensitive skin types and is formulated for post-acne recovery. Its lightweight formula is packed with hydrating and restorative ingredients that help heal the skin without making it feel heavy.
Key ingredients: Tea tree leaf water, niacinamide, ceramide NP, centella asiatica leaf water, hyaluronic acid, madecassosideSize: 1.69 ozBest for skin types: Normal, acne-prone, sensitive
One Cosmo editor says: “I couldn’t tell you the last time I used up a moisturizer and immediately needed to replenish it versus trying something new (I test products for a living, okay?). But this moisturizer is starting to run out, and I already have a brand new bottle on deck. The formula is lightweight yet hydrating, but most of all, it really calms down irritation and has been a godsend for my acne.” —BETH GILLETTE, BEAUTY EDITOR
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A lightweight moisturizer that deeply hydrates all day and night without the greasy, heavy feel seemed like a pipe dream at first, but this cream entered our lives and saved the day. It’s formulated with five types of hyaluronic acid in varying weights, so that each layer of the skin gets infused with hydration. Green tea, along with plant-derived squalane and ceramides, helps strengthen the skin’s barrier. It’s one of the few moisturizers that works for all skin types, from oily to dry, and can be used year-round.
Key ingredients: Green tea, hyaluronic acid, squalane, ceramides, panthenol, allantoinSize: 1.69 ozBest for skin types: Normal, dry, combination, sensitive
One Cosmo editor says: “I was pleasantly surprised by its soft, cushiony texture that melted into my skin, infusing it with long-lasting hydration. Although it has a thicker, gel-like formula, it feels practically weightless on my skin. It’s perfectly balanced, and great as an everyday moisturizer.” —ANVITA REDDY, COMMERCE EDITOR
If you want a moisturizer that can do it all, this Bounce Cream is worth a try. It has a gel-cream texture that feels weightless and cooling on the skin. It’s infused with vitamin C to help brighten the skin and protect it from environmental stressors. But best of all, it leaves your skin with a glow-from-within finish and doubles as a hydrating makeup primer. Although this moisturizer has a higher price point than the others, its texture and wearability are quite unique.
Key ingredients: Vitamin C from Hallabong extract, sea buckthorn oil, ceramides, plant-based squalane, honey extractSize: 1.69 ozBest for skin types: Normal, dry, combination, and oily
One Cosmo editor says: “This is my go-to moisturizer for makeup application; it just leaves the perfect hydrated cushioned base that feels silky and even, almost like a barrier that acts like a hydrating primer. It also leaves behind this gorgeous dewy glow that can’t be replicated (even by bronzing drops).”—AR
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Allow us to introduce you to a dry skin essential, especially during this harsh winter. Illiyoon’s ultra-comforting moisturizer encapsulates high concentrations of ceramides alongside fatty acids and cholesterol to boost your skin barrier and deliver potent hydration without provoking irritation. The thick texture is immediately moisturizing upon application and, according to the brand, continues to boost moisture levels in the skin for 100 hours (!). Meanwhile, it reduces sensitivity, diminishes irritation and discomfort thanks to its soothing formula and cushiony feel.
Key ingredients: Black bean capsule ceramides, soja extractSize: 2.3 ozBest for skin types: Normal, sensitive, dry
One Cosmo editor says: “The texture of this cream is truly divine. It’s so rich and creamy, but not heavy or greasy. I’ll slather myself in it from head-to-toe after a morning shower, and my skin will still feel nourished by the end of the day. “—SM
Formulated with five types of hyaluronic acid, ranging from low to mid- molecular weight, this Soothing Cream is Dr. Mian’s go-to moisturizer for dry skin. It delivers hydration to multiple layers of the skin while actively soothing with panthenol and allantoin. Plus, it has a lightweight gel-cream texture that feels refreshing and slightly cooling on the skin.
Key ingredients: Low and midweight hyaluronic acid, panthenol, allantoin Size: 3.38 ozBest for skin types: Normal, dry, sensitive
Glowing dermatologist review: “This gel-based formula feels cool on the skin, it transforms to an almost watery texture as you rub it in, and provides hydration for my very dry skin despite its lightweight texture. I love the afterglow.”— KIRAN MIAN, DO, FAAD
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Capsule creams may look gimmicky, but they give you control over both texture and active strength. This Medicube formula suspends vitamin C–filled cream capsules in a lightweight hydrating gel, combining two moisturizer types in one. You can customize it to your skin’s needs—use more gel for lightweight hydration or add an extra capsule for a more concentrated treatment.
Not into vitamin C? Medicube also offers capsule blends with tranexamic acid and kojic acid (plus turmeric) for dark spots, as well as hyaluronic acid or PDRN and collagen for hydration and firming.
Key ingredients: Sea buckthorn extract, niacinamide, ascorbic acid, ferulic acid, vitamin E, vitamin C derivatives, alpha arbutinSize: 1.94 ozBest for skin types: Normal, dry, combination, dark spots
One Cosmo editor says: “As someone who deals with uneven skin tone and dark spots, this moisturizer is the ultimate sidekick to my dark spot serum. It’s deeply hydrating and gives my skin a glass-skin glow; like I just woke up from the most refreshing nap. I usually use one orb per application, and yes, it feels extremely satisfying to blend and burst it.” —AR
A lot of K-beauty moisturizers focus on giving you that glowy, dewy look, but if you’re Team Matte, meet this one from viral brand Beauty of Joseon. Formulated specifically for oily to combination skin types, it has a lightweight gel texture that infuses the skin with hydration without leaving a shiny finish, thanks to red bean extract.
Key ingredients: Haenam red bean extract, peptides, panthenol, allantoinSize: 3.38 ozBest for skin types: Combination, oily, and acne-prone
Glowing customer review: “This product has been a game-changer. It’s super lightweight and feels refreshing on the skin. While it does feel a bit sticky at first, it sinks into my skin and dries quickly, leaving my face feeling super smooth. It doesn’t clog my pores and controls the oily areas of my skin super well, while also hydrating the dry areas.”
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If you’re on TikTok, you’ve probably seen this moisturizer appear in nearly every other video. This pink gel cream delivers hydration, leaving the skin with a dewy, glass-skin glow. It’s formulated with hydrolyzed collagen that is supposed to help maintain and improve your skin’s elasticity and firmness. And with over 17,000 ratings on Amazon, it’s a customer favorite.
Key ingredients: Hydrolyzed collagen, niacinamide, plant-derived squalane, hyaluronic acidSize: 1.69 ozBest for skin types: Normal, dry, combination
Glowing customer review: “You get a full-sized product for a good price! The smell is very soft and goes on so smoothly. The container itself is of great quality. My skin is shiny and clear! Not a greasy type of shiny either! I am so pleased with my purchase.”
Oily, acne-prone skin is notoriously finicky—and particularly picky when it comes to moisturizers. After all, more moisture isn’t always what you’re looking for. That’s why Peach Slices’s acne moisturizer focuses on lightweight hydration and gentle exfoliation with acne-fighting MVP salicylic acid to reduce shine while supporting the skin barrier. The oil-free formula is key, preventing the product from weighing down your skin or clogging pores.
Key ingredients: Salicylic acid, niacinamide, cica, cucumberSize: 2.8 ozBest for skin types: Oily, acne-prone
One Cosmo editor says: “This is my go-to moisturizer in the morning before sunscreen on my extremely acne-prone skin. The lightweight consistency absorbs as I massage it into my skin, so it doesn’t add any excess shine.” —BG
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Packed with skin-loving ingredients (think: shea butter, panthenol, and sunflower seed oil to moisturize) and free from potential irritants, the formula works to strengthen the skin barrier, making it an ideal pick for virtually any skin type. “This hardworking cream is filled with moisturizing goodness without ever feeling too thick or goopy. My skin drinks the stuff right up,” says Cosmo beauty contributor Danielle Cohen.
We also appreciate the ingenious twist-and-lock mechanism that keeps the tube clean and the formula free of bacteria, especially while traveling.
Key ingredients: Panthenol, madecassoside, sunflower seed oil, shea butterSize: 2.02 oz
Best for: All skin types
One Cosmo editor says: “I recently began using prescription-grade tretinoin, and I attribute my lack of retinol side effects (i.e., minimal dryness, peeling, irritation) to this barrier-supporting face moisturizer. —SIENA GAGLIANO, FORMER ASSOCIATE EDITOR
How are Korean moisturizers different from American moisturizers?
Korean moisturizers aren’t necessarily “different” from American formulations (they both offer up hydration, as all moisturizers do). However, Korean moisturizers often come in a wide range of textures and formats. “Korean moisturizers over-deliver on delightful experiences,” explains Alicia Yoon, aesthetician and the founder of Peach and Lily. “You can find so many interesting textures, and there’s something for everyone,” she adds, explaining that effective formulas are just the tip of the iceberg in Korea. That said, barrier repair is a core tenet of Korean skincare, along with a focus on prevention and skin strengthening, says dermatologist Ranella Hirsch, MD.
Dr. Mian says the difference comes down to skincare routines, because American routines are simpler. “American moisturizers tend to be designed to do more,” she explains. “They are heavier, creamier, and often focus on anti-aging and skin barrier strengthening properties.” By contrast, Korean skincare routines emphasize multiple layers of hydration, so moisturizers “tend to be lighter in texture, more emulsions or gel-based formulas, as they are designed to be layered on top of essences or serums,” she says.
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What ingredients should you look out for in Korean moisturizers?
Since a moisturizer’s main job is to hydrate, Yoon suggests starting by looking for humectants like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, polyglutamic acid, and urea. Dr. Hirsh also says that a few hydrating ingredients are more commonly found in Korean moisturizers, such as snail mucin, fermented ingredients, centella asiatica, ginseng, and rice water. There’s also tea tree oil and propolis, which she says have something of a reputation for helping breakouts and acne-prone skin. For those with sensitive, acne-prone skin, Dr. Mian is a fan of mandelic acid as a gentle exfoliant.
How to choose the right Korean moisturizer for you:
Assess your skin’s sensitivity.
“Sensitivity of the skin can look different for different people, but the commonality is that your skin tends to be reactive.” Dr. Mian says. “Products tend to trigger a change in your skin. This change can be redness, pink bumps (known as papules), or what looks like a breakout, stinging, irritation, or even swelling.”
If you’re sensitive to botanicals and fragrance, check the ingredient list before picking up a moisturizer. Avoiding strong fragrances and alcohols are a given, but pay attention to certain herbal ingredients, which can be great for some, but irritating for others.
Consider the formula type.
“If you have dry skin, a cream-based moisturizer will help add hydration and prevent further moisture loss,” says Dr. Mian. “Humectants like glycerin help hold on to water, and ceramides and fatty acids help strengthen the skin barrier to prevent further transepidermal water loss.”
Dr. Mian recommends a gel-based or water-based formula that “helps moisturize the skin without feeling too heavy on the skin.” However, if you have skin conditions such as rosacea or sensitive skin, Dr. Mian suggests choosing a lotion with a medium texture that isn’t too heavy or alcohol-based.
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Meet the experts:
Kiran Mian, DO, FAAD, is a board-certified medical and cosmetic dermatologist based in New York City. She has a science-driven approach to skin and hair health and is a consulting dermatologist for skincare and beauty brands.Ranella Hirsch, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in Boston, MA. She’s well-versed in skincare ingredients and formulations, and is also the founder of Atolla, a custom skincare service. Alicia Yoon is an aesthetician and the founder of Peach and Lily, a Korean skincare brand with sensitive-skin friendly formulas that deliver.Why trust ‘Cosmopolitan’?
Anvita Reddy is a commerce editor who contributes to Cosmopolitan with over five years of experience in beauty writing. Her expertise lies in skincare and makeup, specifically Korean beauty, trend reporting, and first-person beauty reviews.
Anvita Reddy (she/her) is a Commerce Editor at Hearst Magazines. She contributes commerce content across Hearst’s portfolio, including Elle, Harper’s Baazar, Esquire, Good Housekeeping, Country Living, Cosmopolitan, House Beautiful, and more. She has over four years of experience in the commerce space, including writing detailed first-person product reviews, trend and best-of round-ups, deals and sales coverage, and more. Previously, she was an assistant editor for PS Shopping, covering beauty, home and kitchen, fashion, tech, travel, wellness, and lifestyle. In her free time, you can find her catching up on everything from reality TV to reruns of classic sitcoms, testing out viral beauty products, sharpening her cooking skills, working out, or traveling.
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