Hi everyone!
If you’re into K-beauty like I am, you’ve probably fallen into the YouTube rabbit hole of skincare reviews. Recently, I stumbled upon a video from the channel “Mad About Skin” titled “2025 Korean Skincare Hall of Fame.”
As soon as I watched it, I knew I had to share a summary — especially with Black Friday just around the corner! If you’ve been wondering which Korean skincare products are actually worth your money this year, keep reading. 🧴✨
What I love about this channel is that it’s completely independent — no sponsorships, no brand deals, just honest opinions from experience. So let’s dive into the 2025 Hall of Fame winners that deserve a spot in your skincare routine!
The Perfect Cleansers for Fresh, Glowing Skin
The foundation of great skin always begins with cleansing — and the video highlighted two outstanding cleansers this year.
1️⃣ Number Glutathione Facial Spa Cleanser
Crowned the best cleanser for two years in a row, this product is infused with glutathione, known for brightening and improving pigmentation. The trick? Don’t just wash and rinse — massage it in for 60 seconds for maximum results. It smells like a luxury Korean spa but costs a fraction of the price.
2️⃣ K Secret Soul 1988 Fine Seeker Cleanser
This cleanser creates rich foam with just a small amount — one tube can last up to a year! It deeply cleans without leaving your skin dry or tight, making it a gentle yet effective choice for all skin types.
🧼 Quick Recap:
- Both cleansers offer effective cleansing without dryness.
- Glutathione helps brighten skin and reduce dark spots.
- Massage for 60 seconds for better absorption.
Eye Creams & Toners That Lay the Perfect Base
After cleansing, hydration and care are key!
Marianne May Tranexamic Acid & Glutathione Eye Cream
A returning favorite for 2025, this eye cream costs only £12 (~$15) but lasts for about six months. Tranexamic acid helps reduce inflammation and dark circles, while glutathione brightens under-eye areas. It also supports anti-aging and firming. Use it twice a day for visible results.
Secret Key Galactomyces Toner
Dubbed the “perfect dupe for SK-II Essence”, this toner costs just £14 (~$18) compared to SK-II’s hefty £120 price tag! It’s packed with fermented galactomyces extract, which improves uneven tone and boosts hydration. Pro tip: apply with your hands instead of cotton pads to avoid waste and contamination.
💧 Quick Recap:
- Eye cream brightens and firms with glutathione and tranexamic acid.
- Toner hydrates and evens tone for 1/10 the price of SK-II.
- Apply products with your hands for best results.
Redefining Snail Mucin with a Lighter Touch
Snail mucin is iconic in Korean skincare, but many formulas feel sticky. This year’s star?
Jasmo Snail Mucin 95 + Peptide Facial Essence
This innovative essence combines snail mucin and peptides for hydration and elasticity — without the sticky feeling. It absorbs fast, leaves skin radiant, and feels luxurious. For those who prefer vegan options, the V Green Wild Yam Essence offers similar benefits while being fully plant-based.
🌱 Quick Recap:
- Jasmo essence: light, fast-absorbing, ethical snail extraction.
- Adds glow and elasticity with peptides.
- V Green Wild Yam: vegan alternative with similar effects.
The Ultimate Lifting Serum
From the “Top 10 Korean Serums” list, the number one pick naturally made it to the Hall of Fame:
NonbuJing NAD Lifting Essence
This serum contains 50 different peptides for firming, lifting, and deep hydration. The creator uses it every single day — that’s how good it is. The product helps improve elasticity and smooth fine lines, making it perfect for anyone chasing that youthful glow.
🧴 Quick Recap:
- Best Korean serum of 2025.
- Packed with 50 peptides for hydration and firmness.
- Daily use recommended for maximum results.
The Cream Everyone’s Fighting to Get
Torriden Cell Amazing Firming Cream
This moisturizer has become a cult favorite — so much so that it’s completely sold out in the UK! At around £15 (~$20), it offers real lifting and firming power rarely found in products at this price point.
The YouTuber joked, “If you find it in stock, run to buy it!” That’s how beloved it is.
💡 Quick Recap:
- Affordable yet powerful firming cream.
- Hydrates deeply while improving elasticity.
- Often sold out due to high demand — grab it fast!
Rice & Honey Mask for Brighter, Softer Skin
Beauty of Joseon Ground Rice & Honey Glow Mask
This soothing mask combines rice enzymes and honey — perfect for acne-prone or dull skin. Honey’s antibacterial properties help calm breakouts, while rice enzymes gently brighten dark spots.
It’s mild enough to leave on for up to an hour, though 10 minutes is ideal. Since you only need a small amount each time, one jar lasts months!
🍚 Quick Recap:
- Rice & honey work together for glow and hydration.
- Gentle enough for sensitive skin.
- Use twice a month for best results.
2025’s Best Korean Sunscreen
The highlight of the video — the ultimate K-beauty sunscreen of 2025!
Isha Nux UV Sun Pro Sun Fluid
This formula uses next-generation UV filters, providing 80 minutes of water resistance while feeling unbelievably lightweight. It disappears seamlessly into the skin, leaving no white cast.
The reviewer, who normally avoids waterproof sunscreens, said this one was too good to skip. It’s perfect for outdoor lovers, swimmers, and humid climates. The only downside? It has a subtle scent, so it might not suit those who prefer fragrance-free skincare.
☀️ Quick Recap:
- Best Korean sunscreen of 2025.
- Water-resistant for 80 minutes.
- Lightweight, invisible finish with mild scent.
Final Thoughts: Build Your Ultimate 2025 K-Beauty Routine
And that’s the full list from Mad About Skin’s 2025 K-Beauty Hall of Fame!
Whether you’re new to Korean skincare or a long-time enthusiast, these picks represent the best of what Korea’s beauty world has to offer — innovation, quality, and results.
With Black Friday around the corner, now’s the perfect time to stock up on these skincare treasures. I’ve already added a few to my wishlist (and maybe my shopping cart 😆).
Which one caught your eye? Have you tried any of these before? Let me know in the comments — I’d love to hear your experience! 💬