25 Best Korean Makeup Products, Tested by K-Beauty Experts 2025

K-Beauty might have flipped the world of skin care on its head, but the best Korean makeup is where the innovation really goes to show. Think: sheer, skin-like finishes with a whisper of natural-looking glow, intentional placement and formulas that are so featherlight, they feel like second skin.

“Korean products tend to prioritize hydration and natural-looking finishes,” says celebrity makeup artist Ham Gyungsik. “In contrast, Western makeup formulas typically emphasize a sun-kissed look, often relying on bolder pigments and more noticeable shimmer,” he explains.

“The biggest difference I’ve noticed is in the color stories—you generally get a lot of pastels, and soft pinky, peachy or purple shades in Korean cosmetics, whereas in Western makeup, you have more neutral colors,” says Judy Lim, a bridal makeup artist and content creator.

I love Korean makeup formulas for their unique texture—some are cushiony and soufflé-like, while others could only be described as ‘liquid glass.’ Whether it’s velvety blushers, glittery eyeshadow palettes, cushion foundations or the famed Korean lip tints, the world of Korean makeup knows no bounds (which is also why it can be a bit overwhelming for the uninitiated). Luckily, I spent the past two months on a mission to narrow down all the best formulas around, some of which are consistent bestsellers at Olive Young (a.k.a. South Korea’s Sephora equivalent). Plus, I’ve also quizzed celeb MUAs and bridal makeup artists on their top application tips.

The best Korean makeup, at a glanceFeatured in this articleBest Foundation

Tirtir Red Mask Fit Red Cushion Foundation

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Best Concealer

Thesaem Cover Perfection Triple Pot Concealer

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Best Blush

Fwee Mellow Dual Blush

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Best Eyeshadow

Unleashia Glitterpedia Eyeshadow Palette

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Best Lip Product

Rom&nd Glasting Color Gloss

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The best Korean foundationsTirtir Red Mask Fit Red Cushion Foundation

Original video from Denise Primbet testing TirTir Mask Fit Red Cushion Foundation

After a formula that delivers a more dramatic result? Say less. This best-selling cushion foundation from TIRTIR offers exactly that—all the coverage, minus a cake-y feel.

“I often rely on it for longevity (be it for weddings, night-outs or long office days. It’s, hands down, the most long-lasting complexion product I own—the kind that doesn’t slip or slide regardless of how much I may be sweating. I also love the finish, not too matte and not too dewy. It delivers a blurred finish that still manages to look like my own skin,” says Glamour beauty contributor Denise Primbet.