3 Canadian Beauty Experts Spill the K-Beauty Products They Swear By

Think of the person with the best skin you know; their blemish-free complexion is probably naturally luminous with a youthful flush at all times, and we’d be willing to bet their skincare cabinet is lined with Korean beauty (K-beauty) products.

From innovative treatments and soothing masks to miracle serums and nourishing creams, K-beauty is all about skin-centric, gentle yet effective formulas that are often ahead of the curve. The result? A healthy base that glows enviably. With beauty retailers like Sukoshi Mart, Sephora Canada and Holt Renfrew now offering a solid assortment of K-beauty brands, it’s easier than ever for Canadians to stock up on new goodies. No long-haul flights to Seoul necessary.

Here’s the thing: the K-beauty market is filled with so many enticing options that it’s tough to know where to begin shopping. That’s why we asked three Canadian beauty experts—celebrity makeup artist Wendy Rorong, medical aesthetician Allana Davis and skincare content creator Helen Cai (@skinbyhelen)—to share the best Korean skincare products they can’t live without. Scroll on to shop their favourites from brands like Medicube, Aestura, Roundlab and more.

Wendy Rorong, Celebrity Makeup Artist and Manicurist

Aestura Atobarrier365 Moisturizing Cream

“A staple for anyone with dry and sensitive skin because it provides deep hydration but still feels light on the skin. I’ve gone through so many bottles of this.”

Purcell 24/7 Colostrum Pore Defence Ampoule Spray

“I keep this in my purse, and I spray it throughout the day. Since it’s winter, my skin is so dry, and this feels so nice on my skin thanks to the hyaluronic acid and panthenol. The size is perfect, and it fits my hand perfectly. It’s also fragrance-free, so it doesn’t irritate or overwhelm me.”

Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin Skin Prep Pads

“The Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin Skin Prep Pads are a new addition to my routine, and I’m obsessed. I saw it trending on the Asian market, so I was excited to see it come to Canada. Apart from the fact that the user experience is so innovative (you pick up the pads using a velcro spatula, and the pads are pre-cut so you can tear them to fit the face), my skin feels so hydrated, and I love that these pads don’t slide or move around.”

Roundlab 1025 Dokdo Cleansing Oil

“For anyone looking to start incorporating K-Beauty into their routine, I always recommend the double cleansing method. First with a cleansing oil (or cleansing balm) for 1 minute, and a second time with a water-based cleanser like this Roundlab Dokdo Cleanser. So gentle on the skin and won’t damage the skin barrier.”

Allana Davis, Medical Esthetician and Founder of Allana Davis Studio

Glow Recipe Guava Vitamin C Dark Spot Serum

“This serum delivers serious brightening without irritation. Perfect for melanin-rich skin that wants an even glow without risking sensitivity or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.”

Laneige Cream Skin Cerapeptide Toner & Moisturizer

“This is my favourite barrier-support step! It plumps, hydrates, and strengthens the lipid barrier so your skin stays calm even when you use actives.”

Dr.G Brigthening Peeling Gel

“A gentle peeling gel is the perfect exfoliant. It boosts cellular turnover, smooths texture, and brightens without compromising the barrier. Glow, not irritation.”

Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask

“Most people forget the lips are part of your skin and they age faster because they don’t have oil glands. As we age, the vermilion border softens and lip lines deepen, so intentional lip care becomes essential. K-Beauty really shines here with its focus on gentle exfoliation and deep moisture. I love this Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask and Lip Treatment so much that I’ve added them into my finishing ritual in the treatment room and my clients absolutely love it. Their formulas keep the lips smooth, plump, and hydrated, helping maintain that youthful definition over time. ”

Helen Cai, Skincare Content Creator

Medicube Booster Pro

“An all-in-one skincare device that celebs like Hailey Bieber swear by for boosting hydration, sculpting and lifting your skin, and rejuvenating your skin. She’s pricey, but worth it when it goes on sale during the holidays (also makes a great gift idea).”

Medicube PDRN Pink Peptide Serum

“If you didn’t know, PDRN comes from salmon sperm and has a lot of benefits like boosting collagen, soothing skin, and making your skin look more even and radiant. I have a video on this coming soon!"

Roundlab Mugwort Calming Serum

“It helps fight off fungal acne on my forehead since mugwort is naturally antibacterial and anti-inflammatory. It’s a traditional herb used in Asian medicine and cuisine to help bring down inflammation and help with digestion. My forehead has never felt and looked smoother since I started using it, and I’m already on my second bottle (purchased with my own coin!).”

Dr. Althea 345 Relief Cream

“It’s incredible at soothing the skin and moisturizing without being heavy or greasy. People who are acne-prone love the texture and how it helps to prevent future breakouts.”