A Review Of The K-Beauty Products I’ve Tried In 2019

Since 2019 is coming to an end, I thought it’d be good to do a review of all the K-beauty products I’ve tried this year that I’ve yet to review. Some of these products were launched this year while others have been around in the market for some time. As with all products, your mileage may vary. Ahead, my honest thoughts on the products I’ve tried.

HERA

Black Foundation in 17N1, $75

This liquid foundation is lightweight and gives a semi-matte finish. Because this foundation is so lightweight, it felt extremely comfortable on my skin. After a couple of hours though, the drier parts of my face started to look patchy, so I don’t think this product will work well for those with dry skin. This product also has a strong scent that I’m not a fan of.
Available at HERA stores.

dear, Klairs

Illuminating Supple Blemish Cream, $29.90

This cruelty-free BB cream provides a natural and sheer coverage, great for a “no makeup” makeup look. This product helped brighten up my skin, giving it a healthy look. Although it does not provide much coverage, this product is enough to hide the redness from my blemishes. The downside of this product is that it only comes in one shade.
Available at selected Guardian stores.

Etude House

Play 101 Pencil in #21 and #34, $12

The multipurpose Play 101 Pencils come in many shades and textures. I got one in brown and another in pink. According to the packaging, #21 can be used for your hairline and eyebrows while #34 can be used for your cheeks and lips. I tried using #21 on my eyebrows and #34 on my cheeks and lips. I found it difficult to use #34 on the lips as it did not go on very smoothly. I also had to go over my lips a few times with this product which was kind of a hassle. The pencils are not bad but they’re not fantastic.
Available at Etude House stores.

innisfree

Skinny Microcara Zero in #01 Black, $16

I’ve bought the innisfree Skinny Microcara Zero twice this year because I like it that much! I highly recommend this if you’re into simple, everyday makeup looks. This waterproof and smudge-proof mascara helps keep my eyelashes nicely curled. The mascara brush is also thin and coats each lash well. I also like that this product is relatively affordable as I tend to replace my mascara every few months in the name of hygiene.
Available at innisfree stores.

Peripera

Ink Highlighter in #03 Beige Kitten Beam, $15.90

When Watsons announced that they’ll be bringing in Peripera products, I knew I had to get something. Although Peripera is well-known for their lip products, I didn’t exactly want to get another lip product so I got their Ink Highlighter instead. This shimmery liquid highlighter is easy to use and gives a subtle, natural glow that nicely catches the light.
Available at selected Watsons stores.

LANEIGE

Stained Glow Lip Balm in No.2 Rich Red, $33

This is the lip product I’ve used the most this year; I really like it a lot. This tinted lip balm is moisturising, feels comfortable on the lips and gives a beautiful wash of colour. It also has a pleasant scent that’s reminiscent of strawberries.
Available at LANEIGE stores.

Luthione

Cleansing Pop, approximately $6.28

This portable cleanser comes in three versions to cater to those with dry skin, oily skin and sensitive skin. Each box of Cleansing Pop has 10 individually packaged sheets in it, with the size of each sheet being smaller than palm size. To use, I put the product in my palm and add some water to it, after which it will promptly disintegrate and turn into a foam-like consistency. I then apply it all over my face and cleanse my face like how I normally would. It removes makeup well but I recommend that you still use a proper eye makeup remover if you have waterproof eye makeup on.
Available at Luthione’s website or Korea’s Watsons stores.

Shangpree

Gold Solution Care Eye Cream, $58

This eye cream claims to treat eyebags, dark circles and wrinkles. It has helped reduce my eyebags and dark circles with consistent use. It doesn’t burn my eyes, is moisturising and has a light, pleasant scent. Although it’s quite pricey, it works well.
Available at Sasa stores.