With more Korean skincare brands becoming available in the UK, it’s no wonder these products are growing in popularity. Although I’ve been loyal to my skincare routine for years, I’ve even been tempted to try some Korean favourites out, and have fallen head over heels for brands such as Beauty of Joseon and Anua. In fact, some of these bestselling products have become mainstays in my routine.
So, when I heard that Sulwashoo, an iconic Korean skincare brand that has been around for over sixty years, was finally launching in the UK, I couldn’t wait to try it. I was lucky enough to get my hands on some of the most sought-after products, and although I’ve only been testing them for a week, the difference in my skin is a testament to just how good this brand is.
A little bit of backstory. My skin is sensitive and very dry, with blackheads, clogged pores and uneven skin texture. Because of this, I’m usually reluctant to add new products to my routine. However, after chatting with some of the incredible people behind the brand and gaining insight into the formulas, I felt confident to try Sulwhasoo out for myself. Before I say too much, keep scrolling to learn more and to shop my favourite Sulwhasoo products.
As mentioned, Sulwhasoo is one of Korea’s most iconic skincare brands and sits in the luxury skincare space, with prices ranging from around £30 to £220. You’ll notice that a lot of the products contain ginseng, which, according to the brand’s website, has been “considered a symbol of longevity in East Asian cultures for generations.”
Pairing this traditional herbal knowledge with innovative formulations and sensorial products, Sulwhasoo is unlike any brand that I’ve tried before. Below, I’ve shared the five products that have made the most difference to my complexion.
After a week of testing Sulwhasoo skincare, my skin is looking clear and subtly radiant.
The Best Sulwhasoo Products, Tried & Tested1. Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Oil
Best cleasning oil
Sulwhasoo
Gentle Cleansing Oil
Key ingredients: The brand’s Korean herbal oil complex and hydra capture complex
Size: 200ml
I always like to start my skincare routine with an oil-based cleanser to break down any makeup before following up with my second cleanse. I love this formula as it’s suitable for all skin types and removes even the most stubborn mascara without irritating my eyes. The lightweight texture feels hydrating without leaving any oily residue on the skin like other cleansers I have tried. Instead, it leaves my complexion looking plump and glowy. Plus, it has a fresh, herbaceous scent, which makes removing your makeup at the end of the day even more enjoyable.
ProsRemoves stubborn makeupDoesn’t irritate my eyesHydrates without leaving any oily residueConsNot everyone will love the oil consistency
2. Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Foam
Best foam cleanser
Sulwhasoo
Gentle Cleansing Foam
Key ingredients: The brand’s hydra capture complex, raspberry fruit, mulberry leaf, mountain yam, cocoa
Size: 200ml
As mentioned, I always follow up with a second cleanse, but I was skeptical about trying this cleansing foam. I’ve never gotten on with foam formulas before, as they are usually quite drying on the skin. However, I was told that this was ideal for both dry and sensitive skin, so I put it to the test. What I like about this formula is that it features fine bubbles to remove makeup. It’s like you can see and feel it cleansing the skin, yet when you wash it all away, your skin is actually incredibly soft. It’s probably the only foam cleanser I’ve ever got on with, and I don’t plan on changing it anytime soon.
ProsDoesn’t strip the skinEffectively removes impuritiesConsWould recommend as a second cleanser, rather than the first step in your routine
3. Sulwhasoo Concentrated Ginseng Rejuvenating Water
Best toner
Sulwhasoo
Concentrated Ginseng Rejuvenating Water
Key ingredients: Korean ginseng
Size: 150ml
This is a really interesting product. I’m calling it a toner, but really, it’s just a great hydration booster for everyday use. It has a lightweight, almost gel-like texture that sinks into the skin instantly and adds the most gorgeous glow. Not only that, but it also helps protect the skin barrier. I simply apply a few drops to my hands before pressing the product into my skin whenever my complexion is dull or lacklustre, and immediately feel like a brand new person.
ProsLightweight textureSinks in instantlyAdds a gorgeous glow
4. Sulwhasoo First Care Activating Serum VI
Best serum
Sulwhasoo
First Care Activating Serum VI
Key ingredients: Lotus, peony, rehmannia, white lily
Size: 60ml
One of the brand’s most popular products is the First Care Activating Serum VI, and wow, I can see why people love it. Few serums have left my skin as radiant as this. Although the formulation feels very lightweight, it packs a punch thanks to a potent blend of Korean herbs, such as lotus and peony. Its aim? To nourish and revitalise the skin while adding noticeable radiance. Let me tell you, it delivers on all fronts.
ProsLightweight formulaNourishes the skinAdds serious glowConsSome may prefer to use a serum designed for a specific skincare concern
5. Sulwhasoo Concentrated Ginseng Rejuvenating Cream
Best face cream
Sulwhasoo
Concentrated Ginseng Rejuvenating Cream
Key ingredients: Korean ginseng
Size: 50ml
My favourite product from the brand is, without a doubt, this face cream. A sensorial delight, the deeply hydrating moisturiser comes in the form of a lightweight gel-cream that feels like silk on the skin. Ginseng peptides support the skin barrier and enhance elasticity, resulting in a plump, glowing complexion that makes it look like I’ve just had an hour-long facial. Oh, and it smells just like a spa, which always helps.
ProsSuper hydratingFeels lightweight on the skinLeaves your complexion plump and glowing
Sulwhasoo
Concentrated Ginseng Rejuvenating Serum
Packed with concentrated ginseng peptides, this serum will have you glowing in no time.
Sulwhasoo
Concentrated Ginseng Rejuvenating Eye Cream
Sulwhasoo
Concentrated Ginseng Rejuvenating Ampoule
For an intense boost of nourishment, apply a few drops of this product morning and night.
Sulwhasoo
My First Sulwhasoo
The perfect starter kit for anyone new to the brand, including the First Care Activating Serum VI, the Concentrated Ginseng Rejuvenating Serum and a mini jar of the Rejuvenating Cream.
At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.
We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.
