Korean skin care has gained global popularity, with the industry ranking eighth globally and exports ranking fourth worldwide.

Korean skin care emphasizes protection from infancy using natural, gentle products.

Korean skin care prioritizes healthy, moisturized skin through a multistage process.

Koreans prioritize sunscreen from age 20-25 and a diet rich in greens and vegetables to maintain inner beauty.

Korean skin care aims to maintain a youthful appearance, and Korean beauties are known worldwide for their stunning looks.

Korean skincare products are popular in the UAE, with 60% sales growth, driven by skin care (61%) and sun protection (38%) products.

Korean skincare has become a global treasure, with sales doubling in 2024 due to social media and influencers.

Korean skin care emphasizes prevention and hydration with natural ingredients for diverse skin types.

Korean skincare trends like "glass skin" aim for a flawless complexion through innovative global solutions.

The Korean skin care market is expected to reach $11.4 billion by 2026, driven by affordable prices and simplified routines.

Korean skin care prioritizes gentle exfoliation with PHAs, hydration, and soothing ingredients to reduce inflammation.

Korean skin care's popularity stems from its focus on gentle, nourishing ingredients, often including natural ones like snail mucin.

Korean skin care stands out for its use of unique ingredients like organic plant extracts.

TikTok promotes Korean skin care with #kbeauty having 9.5 billion views.

However, the promotion of "glassy skin" and "dewy appearance" can lead to low self-esteem and body dissatisfaction, especially in women.

Unrealistic beauty standards can trigger PTSD-like responses and harm self-esteem and body image in some individuals.

The beauty industry, including Korean skin care brands, promotes unattainable beauty standards, leading to negative psychological effects.

Korean skin care has gained global popularity, with the industry ranking eighth globally and exports ranking fourth worldwide.

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Content: Go to the menu Go to the original
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Korea Cosmetics Experience Center
# Korea Vientiane l 2021-10-01
Vientiane, South Korea
Director （ PD ） ： Jin Bo
Moderator (MC): Minami Mori (Professor, Hirasawa University)
Guest: Sung Joon-soo (Head of Education and Publicity Group, Korea Cosmetics Industry Research Institute)
The heart of beauty is for everyone.
Speaking of Korea, most women will think of Korean cosmetics.
During the epidemic, the first Korean cosmetics publicity center opened in Myeongdong, Seoul.
This program has asked the person in charge of Song Zhenxiu to introduce the relevant situation for everyone.
Nan: Hello! Would you please say hello to our listeners?
Song: Hello everyone.
I am Song Jung-soo of the Korean Cosmetics Industry Research Institute, and I am mainly responsible for publicity and training work.
Now my main business is running the first K-beauty experience hall in Korea.
We are delighted to have the opportunity to introduce our Cosmetics Experience Hall on KBS Radio Korea International.
Nan: Your Chinese is so good, how did you end up with China?
Song: When I was very young, a friend made me a Chinese food in Northeast China. As a result, I suddenly became fascinated with the magic of Chinese food, so I began to learn Chinese, and completed a master's degree in Chinese universities.
Nan: Congratulations on the grand opening of Korea Cosmetics Experience Hall, please tell us what kind of experience hall this is?
Song: Our K-beauty Cosmetics Experience Hall is the first Korean cosmetics publicity hall jointly operated by the Korean Ministry of Health and Welfare and the Korean Cosmetics Industry Research Institute.
Domestic foreigners and ordinary consumers can freely use and experience the excellent cosmetics of Korean SMEs here for free.
Nan: What is the background to opening such an experience hall?
Song: The market share of the Korean cosmetics industry currently occupies the eighth place in the world, and exports account for the fourth place, but cosmetics exports are mainly played by large enterprises, in fact, among the cosmetics of Korean small and medium-sized enterprises, there are also very many excellent products.
It is just that the public is not very familiar with them, so we planned such a project, hoping that Korean small and medium-sized cosmetics can also go to the world.
Nan: How did consumers react to the experience?
Song: Our experience hall is located in Myeongdong, in the center of Seoul, and you can see not only the famous Myeongdong church, but also the landmark Namsan of Seoul.
Because the background is very beautiful, many people can not help but pull out their mobile phones to constantly take photos.
Therefore, our experience hall can be said to be a collection of experience and leisure in one place, every day at noon and after work will be visited by many office workers.
Nan: Korean cosmetics are popular all over the world, especially in Asia. Why do you think this is?
Song: The reasons are very diverse. First of all, Koreans pay special attention to skin protection, starting from infancy to use skin care products suitable for their skin care, and then they must use sunscreen every day in adolescence to prevent UV damage to the skin.
In addition, Korean cosmetics production attaches great importance to raw materials, try to use natural affinity of raw materials, reduce the stimulation of the skin, so it is generally considered that Korean cosmetics are very safe.
Third, it should be the impact of the Korean wave craze, such as Korean opera and Korean singers and other entertainers should be said to be not small. (Photo from the guest)
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Korean skin care emphasizes protection from infancy using natural, gentle products.

Korean skin care prioritizes healthy, moisturized skin through a multistage process.

Title:

Content: According to overseas rules: what is the peculiarity of the Korean skin care system
Beauty expert Kim: Korean skin care is multistage
Photo, video: www.globallookpress.com / Erik Reis - IKOstudio; 5-tv.ru
Go to ZenFollow our news
in a convenient format
Koreans are very attentive to their appearance.
Korean beauties are famous all over the world for their extraordinary ability to maintain a stunning appearance until old age.
They carefully monitor themselves and try to take care of the skin of the face in order to remain young and beautiful as long as possible.
Butiologist Kim Bo Hyang told 5-tv.ru about the main secrets of beauty "in Korean", which will definitely provide the perfect tone and radiance.
At first, the expert noted that in Korea it is really considered beautiful when a person has healthy and moisturized skin.
That is why their facial care system is so special, and so much time is given to trying to look.
The “first secret ” is that Korean women carefully choose for themselves multi-stage individual care.
Each girl has its own skin type, its own “features ” and problem areas, for which certain cosmetics are necessary.
“Therefore, we carefully select each product and make an individual program, which consists of several stages, ” the specialist stressed.
The second rule of the Korean system is to take care of your skin, just like the skin of a baby, noted the beautiologist.
It is important to use not only effective products with active ingredients, but also those cosmetics that will not injure the protective barrier.
“The Korean standard for the production of cosmetics is one of the strictest and safest.
Therefore, Korean women choose cosmetics very picky, carefully.
That it was not only effective, but also careful for our skin, ” explained the interlocutor 5-tv.ru.
The “third secret ” is the mandatory use of sunscreens.
From about 20-25 years old, girls add special SPF creams to everyday care.
In the Korean "market" a huge number of different products that protect the skin from the sun - with different textures and filters.
Kim shared that great attention is paid to the beauty “inside ”.
Korean beauties in addition to the use of numerous cosmetics try to monitor their diet, avoiding harmful products.
“If you look at Korean cuisine, there are a lot of greens and vegetables.
And we always adhere to the fact that beauty is not only from the outside, but also from the inside, ” the expert concluded.
Previously, 5-tv.ru talked about the main mistakes in skin care.
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Koreans prioritize sunscreen from age 20-25 and a diet rich in greens and vegetables to maintain inner beauty.

Korean skin care aims to maintain a youthful appearance, and Korean beauties are known worldwide for their stunning looks.

Korean skincare products are popular in the UAE, with 60% sales growth, driven by skin care (61%) and sun protection (38%) products.

Title:

Content: Prestigious position for Korean skincare products in the UAE
Korean skincare products sweep the UAE market
Unique and effective ingredients in the product range drive demand in the UAE and around the world
Retailers in the UAE are seeing a dramatic increase in the sale of Korean beauty products recently.
Along with the wave of popularity of South Korean drama, movies and music, the country ’ s skincare products have also gained prominence.
Shiraz Khan, Chief Operating Officer of Aster GCC Retail, said: “We have observed a significant increase in demand for Korean beauty products, both globally and within the UAE.
At myAster, we saw significant growth of 60 per cent in the first quarter of the year, with skin care and sun protection products being the most sought after, contributing 61 per cent and 38 per cent respectively to our sales. ”
Other retailers have confirmed the growing demand for them.
Jonathan Watts, General Manager of AS Watson, said: “Korean skincare has become a treasure trove in the beauty industry globally and the Middle East is no exception. We have seen a significant rise in Watson this year, with sales doubling so far in 2024, compared to last year. ”
According to e-commerce company Noon, they have taken several steps to meet the growing demand.
Retika Jain, Head of Beauty at Noon, said: “Korean beauty products are seeing huge customer demand from Noon, especially in the skincare and makeup categories, and to meet this growing demand, Noon has partnered with local and Korean vendors to offer original Korean beauty products at very competitive prices, and deliver them quickly. ”
Reasons for fame
There are several reasons for the rise in popularity of Korean beauty products according to experts.
Jonathan Watts said: “Consumers highly value the focus on skin care within Korean cosmetics, as well as the unique and effective ingredients found in the product range.
Ingredients such as Hartlev leaves and snail extract, although unconventional, are effective and gentle on the skin. ”
He said there were other factors that made the skincare package so popular among the younger generation.
He added: “The majority of Korean beauty product brands are not harsh on the skin, and are in line with the growing consumer preference for ethically sourced products.
The influence of TikTok and the boom in Korean pop culture are also major contributors to the phenomenon we see with Korean beauty products. ”
Shiraz Khan
Shiraz said the unique preparation of the products also played an important role in increasing their popularity.
“Innovative formulas, high efficiency and a cultural wave driven by Korean beauty trends through social media and influencers are all factors that have helped their spread. Korean beauty products are known for their advanced skin care techniques and natural ingredients, which attract a wide population looking for effective and gentle skin care solutions, ” he said.
Glassy skin, dewy appearance
Jonathan said that “glass skin ” among Koreans is one of the most desirable things.
“This requires a careful skincare regimen that focuses on hydration, exfoliation and nutrition, areas where Korean beauty brands excel.
Products such as serums, masks, eye masks and extracts with moisturizing ingredients are essential for a vitreous skin appearance. ”
Regardless of the appearance of glassy skin, there are many other common Korean trends.
Retika Jane said: “In double cleansing, an oil cleanser is used, followed by a water cleanser to get clean skin. ”
“The trend of using makeup for both beauty and care has also increased.
Customers want to use clean, multi-purpose products that not only work as a lipstick or dye but also moisturize the skin, contain a sun protection factor (SPF) and provide comprehensive nutrition.
“The ‘ dew ’ look is one of the top trends this year, with a particular focus on glossy lips that look fuller. ”
Demand is expected to continue significantly in the near future.
Shiraz said: “We expect this trend to continue as consumers become increasingly aware of the benefits of Korean beauty products, their popularity is not just a fleeting fad but a testament to their quality and effectiveness in meeting different skin care needs. ”
Jonathan agreed: “Korean beauty is here to stay and is likely to become an integral part of everyone ’ s beauty routine in the future.
Watson currently owns more than 30 Korean beauty brands, and we are expected to launch 10 more this year. ”
Khaleej Times - Arabic Edition
www.khaleejtimes.com

Korean skincare has become a global treasure, with sales doubling in 2024 due to social media and influencers.

Korean skin care emphasizes prevention and hydration with natural ingredients for diverse skin types.

Title:

Content: What's Hot

The Best Korean Skin Care Product Brands For 2024

K-beauty products have slowly risen to trend, becoming bestsellers on almost all e-commerce platforms. So what is all the hype about? Let us break it down for you along with the best Korean skin care brands below.

Best Skin Care Product Brands Photo: Amazon

Korean people are renowned for their sought-after "glass skin" appearance. With a growing emphasis on skin health, many consumers are turning to the best Korean skincare products for its use of natural ingredients such as ginseng and rice water, along with reliable staples like retinol, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and ceramides. From cleansers and moisturisers to face masks and serums, Korean skincare brands provide options for every budget and skin type.

Be it if you have oily, dry, sensitive, or combination skin, Korean brands offer a diverse range of products tailored to address specific issues like acne, aging, hyperpigmentation, and hydration. This versatility has made Korean skincare a favourite among beauty enthusiasts seeking effective solutions at various price points.

To simplify your search for the ideal skincare regimen, we've curated a list of some of the best Korean skincare products and brands below.

Whether you prioritise gentle formulations, anti-aging benefits, or hydration, these recommendations will help you discover a brand that aligns perfectly with your skincare needs and goals. Explore the world of Korean skincare and achieve radiant, healthy-looking skin with products trusted by millions worldwide.

How to choose the best Korean skincare products

  • Identify Your Skin Type: Determine whether your skin is oily, dry, combination, sensitive, or acne-prone. Korean skincare offers targeted products for each type.

  • Understand Your Skin Concerns: Whether it's acne, aging signs, hyperpigmentation, or dehydration, prioritise products designed to address your specific concerns.

  • Read Ingredient Lists: Look for key ingredients like hyaluronic acid for hydration, niacinamide for brightening, and tea tree oil for acne-prone skin. Avoid products with potentially irritating ingredients if you have sensitive skin.

  • Consider Product Texture: Choose textures that suit your preferences and needs—whether lightweight gels for oily skin or rich creams for dry skin.

  • Check for Certifications: Look for certifications like K-Beauty or EWG Verified, ensuring products meet certain safety and quality standards.

  • Trial Sizes and Patch Tests: Start with trial sizes or samples when possible to test compatibility with your skin. Conduct patch tests to avoid adverse reactions.

  • Create a Routine: Build a comprehensive skincare routine that includes cleansing, toning, treating (with serums or essences), moisturising, and sun protection, tailored to your skin's needs and concerns.

How we chose these brands for you

  • Effectiveness: Each brand was evaluated for the efficacy of its products in addressing various skin concerns such as acne, aging, hydration, and sensitivity.

  • Customer Reviews: Insights from real users helped gauge overall satisfaction, product performance, and consistency in delivering promised results.

  • Brand Reputation: We considered the reputation and trustworthiness of each brand within the skincare community, focusing on their commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction.

  • Value for Money: We assessed the pricing relative to the quality and benefits offered by each brand, ensuring you get the best value for your investment.

  • Ethical Standards: Brands that uphold ethical standards in sourcing ingredients, manufacturing processes, and sustainability practices were given preference.

Below is a comprehensive list of best Korean skin care brands

  1. Glow Recipe

Glow Recipe Photo: Amazon

Glow Recipe is a beloved Korean skincare brand known for its innovative and fruit-forward products. If you're wondering whether it's a good fit for your skin type, you're in luck—Glow Recipe caters to a variety of skin types, from dry and sensitive to oily and combination.

Their product range is extensive, featuring everything from cleansers and toners to serums, moisturisers, and masks. Popular items include the Watermelon Glow Sleeping Mask and the Banana Soufflé Moisture Cream. These products are formulated with gentle yet effective ingredients like watermelon, avocado, and hyaluronic acid, which are designed to nourish and hydrate the skin without irritation.

This brand has carved out a strong position in the market, often praised for its fun, colourful packaging and effective formulations. The brand enjoys a solid reputation, frequently highlighted in beauty magazines and loved by influencers.

Products from Glow Recipe worth the hype

2, ILLIYOON

ILLIYOON Photo: Amazon

ILLIYOON is a rising star in the Korean skincare scene, known for its focus on gentle yet effective formulations suitable for sensitive skin types. Their product range spans from basic skincare essentials to targeted treatments, making it a go-to brand for those seeking simplicity and effectiveness.

The brand emphasises natural ingredients known for their soothing and moisturising properties, such as ceramides, panthenol (provitamin B5), and madecassoside (derived from centella asiatica). These ingredients help strengthen the skin barrier, hydrate deeply, and calm irritation—ideal for sensitive and dry skin types.

While perhaps not as widely recognized as some major Korean beauty brands, ILLIYOON is dermatologically tested, ensuring safety and efficacy for various skin types, reflecting its commitment to quality and skin-friendly formulations. Feedback from users often highlights the brand’s ability to soothe sensitive skin, reduce redness, and provide long-lasting hydration.

Some of the best products from ILLIYOON range

3. COSRX

COSRX Photo: Amazon

Established in 2014, COSRX has quickly gained a strong reputation among skincare enthusiasts and professionals alike. Their products are often clinically evaluated and tested, ensuring safety and efficacy. They're particularly beneficial for acne-prone, oily, combination, and sensitive skin types, thanks to their gentle yet effective formulations.

They prioritise using minimal ingredients and focus on scientifically-backed actives that deliver results without unnecessary additives.

Their range includes essentials like cleansers, toners, exfoliants (like the popular BHA Blackhead Power Liquid), serums (such as the Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence), moisturisers, and acne treatments. COSRX products are formulated with key ingredients like snail mucin, Centella Asiatica, AHA/BHA acids, and propolis, targeting issues such as acne, aging, and uneven skin tone.

The brand's straightforward approach and affordable pricing make it a favourite among those looking for reliable skincare solutions backed by science.

Popular product from this fast forward rising brand

4. LANEIGE

LANEIGE Photo: Amazon

Users have continually praised LANEIGE for its ability to deliver noticeable improvements in skin hydration and texture. Since its inception it has built a solid reputation for combining scientific research with effective skincare solutions.

Their products feature ingredients like Water Science™ technology, which includes mineral water, hyaluronic acid, and proprietary blends like the Advanced Water Science™ technology found in their Water Bank line. Popular items include the Water Sleeping Mask, Lip Sleeping Mask, and the Cream Skin Refiner, all designed to provide intense hydration and nourishment.

Many appreciate the luxurious feel and effective results of their products, especially the overnight masks which leave skin feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

LANEIGE's commitment to hydration and skincare innovation continues to resonate with customers worldwide, making it a trusted name in the world of Korean beauty.

Their prominent product lineup include

5. belif

belif Photo: Amazon

Belif is a Korean skincare brand that’s revered for its effective solutions, especially for hydration and maintaining a healthy skin barrier. If you're dealing with dryness, dullness, or sensitivity, this brand offers promising remedies.

They cater  to a wide range of skin types, particularly benefiting those with dry, combination, and sensitive skin. Their formulations are free from parabens, sulfates, and phthalates, appealing to users seeking clean skincare options.

Their lineup includes moisturisers (like the True Cream Aqua Bomb and Moisturizing Bomb), cleansers, serums, masks, and toners. Key ingredients such as comfrey leaf, oats, and calendula help soothe and nourish the skin, while maintaining a gentle approach suitable for sensitive skin types.

The brand continues to be praised for its innovative approach to skincare, making it a favourite among skincare enthusiasts looking for gentle yet powerful solutions.

Standout products include that are under $40

6, innisfree

innisfree Photo: Amazon

Innisfree has cemented its place as a staple in many skincare routines, known for its extensive range of products and dedicated retail outlets worldwide. They offer a diverse array of skincare items including cleansers, toners, essences, serums (such as the Green Tea Seed Serum), moisturizers, masks, and sunscreens.

Their products are formulated with natural ingredients sourced from Korea's pristine Jeju Island, like green tea, volcanic clay, and orchid extracts, catering to a wide spectrum of skin types. The brand is particularly favoured for its commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly practices, earning a positive reputation among environmentally conscious consumers.

Founded in 2000, Innisfree has grown into a globally recognized name in skincare, praised for its effective formulations rooted in natural ingredients. Reviews highlight Innisfree's ability to deliver noticeable results, from improved skin texture to enhanced hydration and a healthy glow.

Some staples you should include in your skincare routine

7. AESTURA

AESTURA Photo: Amazon

AESTURA has made a name for itself by focusing on products designed for sensitive and compromised skin. Their offerings cater to individuals who need gentle, soothing care, often including those with conditions like eczema or rosacea. The brand boasts a comprehensive range of products, including cleansers, toners, moisturisers, and specialised treatments.

This brand's products are formulated with dermatologically tested ingredients such as ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and Centella Asiatica, which help to strengthen the skin barrier, provide deep hydration, and soothe irritation.

Their key products, like the Atobarrier 365 Cream and the Theracne 365 Clear Deep Cleansing Foam, are highly regarded for their effectiveness and gentleness.

Feedback highlights the noticeable improvement in skin hydration and overall health, with many appreciating the brand's commitment to gentle yet effective skincare. If you're seeking reliable, dermatologist-approved skincare, AESTURA is definitely worth considering.

Products that may help you achieve that glass skin

AESTURA A-CICA365 Soft Calming Mask Pad

AESTURA A-CICA 365 Calming Cream with Blemish Calming Serum

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What makes Korean skincare different from Western skincare?

  • Korean skincare emphasises prevention, hydration, and achieving a luminous complexion through consistent and gentle care. It often incorporates innovative ingredients and practices rooted in traditional Korean beauty rituals.

How should I incorporate Korean skincare products into my routine?

  • Start with a basic routine of cleansing, toning, and moisturizing, then gradually introduce additional products like serums or masks based on your skin concerns. Consistency and patience are important as your skin adjusts to new products.

Are Korean skincare products suitable for men?

  • Yes, Korean skincare brands often offer gender-neutral or specifically formulated products for men. These products focus on hydration, anti-aging, and soothing properties, catering to the unique needs of male skin.

How long does it take to see results from Korean skincare products?

  • Results from Korean skincare products can vary depending on individual skin types and concerns. Generally, users may notice improvements in hydration and skin texture within a few weeks of consistent use.

What does one mean when they say Korean glass skin?

  • Korean glass skin refers to a skincare trend aimed at achieving a smooth, flawless complexion with a reflective, dewy finish. It involves meticulous hydration, exfoliation, and use of lightweight, hydrating products to enhance skin radiance.

Wrapping up

Korean skincare brands offer a pathway to discovering effective and innovative skincare solutions. With a focus on quality ingredients, gentle formulations, and a rich heritage of skincare wisdom, these brands cater to diverse skin types and concerns. By choosing from our carefully curated list of recommendations, you can tap into a world of skincare known for its commitment to hydration, radiance, and overall skin health. Whether you're seeking to address specific skincare issues or enhance your daily routine, Korean skincare offers a holistic approach that blends tradition with modern science, promising visible results and a renewed sense of confidence in your skin.

Disclaimer: The above content is non-editorial and produced by a third party partner. Outlook India does not guarantee, vouch for or endorse any of the content*.

*The product prices mentioned in the article are subject to change

Korean skincare trends like "glass skin" aim for a flawless complexion through innovative global solutions.

The Korean skin care market is expected to reach $11.4 billion by 2026, driven by affordable prices and simplified routines.

Title:

Content: Is Korean Skin Care Really Superior? An Investigation

Photographed by Hayleigh Longman
With its shelfie-worthy packaging and a focus on intriguing ingredients like snail mucin and fermented rice water, Korean skincare has been the subject of Western fascination for years. Brands like CosRx, Innisfree, and Laneige have assumed viral social-media status, while Glow Recipe and Dr. Jart+ are now practically household names, thanks to TikTok.
Besides whipping up curiosity, Korean skin care has established a name for itself as one of the most effective and trustworthy categories in beauty. And ahead of winter, it's seeing a serious revival. In the past few weeks, searches for 'Korean skin-care routine', '10-step Korean skin care', and 'best Korean skin-care products' have made up Google's skin-care trends. While on TikTok, the hashtag #koreanskincare has seen a handful of new videos, each raking in millions of views.
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In October, a tweet and TikTok video posted by skin-care blogger @Mul_OVO went viral for showcasing the benefits of switching to Korean skin care. But is Korean skin care really better? Or have we simply got caught up in the hype?
Cosmetic Chemist and Licensed Aesthetician Esther Olu believes our obsession with K-skincare started with 'glass skin' — skin so dewy, it's almost reflective. Olu says that glass skin was the ideal and promoted "healthy-looking" and "luminous" skin standards. "Everyone wanted to have healthy skin," says Olu, "and Korean [skin care] has played a critical role in this mindset."

The Korean approach to skin care is a lot gentler and there is a distinct difference in ingredients lists compared to Western products, which can be harsh.

You could argue that the main intent of skin care everywhere is to promote healthy, happy skin. But there are some key differences. Many Western skin-care trends (such as skin cycling, peels, and rediscovering skin toners) tend to home in on ingredients such as retinol and exfoliating acids, for example glycolic, lactic, and salicylic acid. These are great when used properly and sensibly under the guidance of an expert but they can be notoriously irritating when overdone, as many of us tend to do.
Ask any dermatologist to pinpoint common skin gripes they regularly spot in clinic and they'll almost always reel off perioral dermatitis (a red rash that circles your mouth), burns, irritation, dryness, and a compromised skin barrier (redness, tightness, breakouts, rashes) — all a result of overdoing it on harsh ingredients.
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Of course, Korean skin care does feature the aforementioned ingredients. They do work, after all. But the Korean approach seems to be a lot gentler and there is a distinct difference in ingredients lists, too, says Olu. PHAs (polyhydroxy acids) are a lot more popular in Korean skin care, for example. Take Dr. Jart+'s recently launched Pore Remedy range, in which PHAs are the star ingredient. Much like glycolic and salicylic acids, PHAs exfoliate the skin effectively, but what sets them apart from other exfoliators is their large molecule size. They exfoliate at surface level without going too deep and aggravating skin as other acids might. Glow Recipe and CosRx are just a few Korean brands championing them and subsequently promoting a kinder approach to the controversial exfoliation trend.
In fact, Korean skin care has been something of a savior for our irritated skin barriers of late. Much of Korean skin care shines a light on reducing inflammation rather than drying out skin. "Promoting hydration as well as soothing ingredients is a primary focus in Korean skin care," confirms Cosmetic Chemist Ramón Pagán. "This is a contrast to the products we tend to see in the west, which can be more astringent or irritating to the skin with higher percentages of active ingredients."
Pagán explains that thanks to skin-care marketing in the early '00s, the Western approach to skin care has been hooked on stripping skin: getting rid of the 'bad' stuff like excess oil and clogged pores. Conversely, Korean skin care is about nourishing the skin. Reddit's skin-care obsessives concur that Western skin care can be disagreeable, particularly for those with dry, sensitive, or acne-prone skin.
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@hkjennylee #greenscreen and not to mention the dupe has bifida as the FIRST ingredient while the original has it as the SECOND… tea 🙈 #koreanskincare #kbeautyblogger #kbeauty #koreanskincareproducts #kbeautyskincare ♬ Monkeys Spinning Monkeys - Kevin MacLeod & Kevin The Monkey
Olu seconds this. "Western skin-care products tend to take a corrective approach," she tells R29. "Specifically, the formulas are dedicated to solving a skin-care concern, whether it is retinol, azelaic acid, or BHAs and AHAs," which are different kinds of exfoliating acids. "[Western skin care] is meant to help with anti-aging and things like redness," explains Olu, "while Korean skin care focuses more on maintenance and skin barrier health."
It's why you'll find excellent ingredients, like ceramides (very moisturizing and hold the skin barrier together), centella asiatica aka cica (a herb that decreases inflammation, redness, puffiness, and swelling) and niacinamide (vitamin B3, which keeps the skin barrier intact and reduces excess oil) in most Korean skin care. The color-correcting cream that recently went viral on TikTok? It includes cica — and of course it's Korean.

A reason why Korean skin care is so popular — and so good — is because the Korean government is said to have actively invested in its beauty brands to better develop cosmetics.

Redditors also point out that Korean skin care includes 'special ingredients' and technologies that Western products don't. Snail mucin (excreted from snails) is a popular moisturizing ingredient among Korean brands, with influencers and experts extolling the virtues of products like CosRx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence Gel. "This is a great barrier-protecting ingredient," Dr. Kemi Fabusiwa told R29 recently, "but it also gives your skin a great shine."
Then there's allantoin, popular in Korean skin care for locking moisture into the skin, as well as rice extract (said to increase hydration, making skin plump), and bee propolis, a natural substance produced by honey bees that has been proven to smooth skin and protect it from environmental factors, such as pollution.
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Beyond the more skin-friendly and interesting approach to ingredients, it has been reported that Korean beauty and skin care is one of the country's biggest businesses and exports. As the world's third largest cosmetics exporter, South Korea's cosmetics exports outperformed home appliances, pharmaceuticals, and smartphones in 2020. Data also suggests that South Korea's skin-care market will reach $11.4 billion in value by 2026. Interestingly, one of the reasons why Korean skin care is so popular — and so good — is because the Korean government is said to have actively invested in its beauty brands in order to better develop cosmetics.
"When K-beauty was introduced to the Western market through popular channels and social media, a phenomenon was awakened, creating demand and opportunity for business," says Nina Vargas, a global business strategist for beauty, fashion, and wellness brands. "This allowed Korean cosmetics companies to obtain help from the Korea International Trade Association (KITA)." KITA is a nonprofit organization that helps small and medium enterprises enter markets abroad.
What's more, Dr. Jenelle Kim, Founder and Formulator of JBK Wellness Labs, says that Korean skin care uses the latest science to understand exactly what our skin needs. "It utilizes ingredients in new ways, while remaining committed to formulating with centuries-proven ingredients and, for some brands [like Erborian, Sulwhasoo, and Beauty of Joseon], the powers of herbal medicine." Ginseng and green tea are super popular, for example.
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Dr. Kim adds that our skin's needs change with the climate or environmental factors, like air quality, makeup trends, and hormones. Korean skin care has consistently switched things up in an effort to help us stay in balance. Pagán agrees that heritage surrounds Korean skin care. "Lots of brands use 'hanbang' ingredients, which are based around traditional Korean medicine," he says. "These are often herbal and naturally derived." Post-pandemic, when we're more interested than ever in keeping healthy, highlighting medicinal skin care makes Korean products appear trustworthy and effective, elevating them above others.
In short, skin care is an inherent part of Korean culture. Head to TikTok and you'll see that Koreans view beauty not as a luxury but as a necessity. Countless videos suggest that from a young age, people are taught to take care of their skin and to look at skin care as a preventative measure. Year-round sun protection is also a big trend among Korean skin-care lovers, with a high factor, broad spectrum sunscreen said to be one of the most important products in a routine.
Another reason Korean skin care is regarded so highly is because the majority of it is affordable. Head to Reddit and you'll spot skin-care lovers swapping reviews of Innisfree, Tonymoly, and Etude House. The promise of soothed, hydrated skin is their main pull, but so are the relatively low prices, with most cleansers, serums, and creams coming in under $25.
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Amid a cost of living crisis, it makes sense that we want to spend as little as possible on beauty products. When it comes to Korean skin care, though, tightening your purse strings doesn't mean compromising on quality. All the proven skin-care ingredients are there, from retinol to acids, just in gentler concentrations and sophisticated formulas. Some TikTokers even point out that Korean skincare often dupes brands and products that charge hundreds for very similar ingredients and results. "It doesn't matter if you spend $1 or $100. If it's K-Beauty, chances are it's great," thinks Vargas.
Over time, the 10-product routine has given way to routines with fewer steps. Excessive layering doesn't work for everyone, particularly if you have a strict budget or your skin is sensitive, reactive, or acne-prone. But Korean skin care is ever evolving and always adapting to consumer needs. Because of this, three- or four-step routines are now trending among Korean influencers. TikTokers are sharing their easy skin-care rituals, which always start with a gentle, hydrating cleanser followed by a serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen. This is a quick and effective routine that dermatologists and skin-care experts often recommend for skin types across the board.
Pagán believes that Korean skin care stays fun and inventive. "It's simple but impactful and you get luxury experiences at affordable prices. You don't see Western brands readily introducing staple Korean concepts, like fermented ingredients or snail secretion." Add to that the serious investment and spotlight on nourishing the skin (rather than getting rid of the 'nasty' stuff) and it's clear to see why Korean skin care is regarded so highly. But is it better? Essentially, the very best skin care is the skin care that works for you. If it happens to be Korean, that's great. But if it's something else entirely, why switch it up?
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This story was originally published on Refinery29UK.
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Korean skin care prioritizes gentle exfoliation with PHAs, hydration, and soothing ingredients to reduce inflammation.

Korean skin care's popularity stems from its focus on gentle, nourishing ingredients, often including natural ones like snail mucin.

Korean skin care stands out for its use of unique ingredients like organic plant extracts.

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Content: Vegan Skincare ｜ The first lip balm selected by 5 Korean niche organic skincare brands is this
Author: WIW - Women in Work
Published: Updated:
In recent years, this trend of environmental protection, vegan and animal-free experiments has also hit Asia. In Korea, which has always mastered the Asian maintenance trend, natural organic care products have become popular in recent years. These natural brands are widely discussed among Korean girls.
To create flawless skin, you need to pay attention to diet, of course, many have to choose natural and harmless skin care products! Recommended 5 Korean niche organic skin care brands (click to enlarge read) ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼
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One Thing
The brand insists on using Korean organic plant extracts, and each lotion launched has only one ingredient, and the pure ingredients allow the skin to get more targeted care.
Each of these plant ingredients will give the skin a different nourishment, and everyone can mix and use according to their own skin.
Because each product has no compound components, only one organic and natural ingredient, it can also be used with other One Thing products.
Melixir
Melixir is a brand focused on vegan ingredients and environmentally friendly packaging, and without any animal testing, all products are PETA certified for global animal protection, plus natural ingredients, even for pregnant women and sensitive skin.
One of the brand's most popular lip balm, once voted the first easy-to-use lip balm by Korean girls, it can also do its part for the earth while protecting the skin.
Abib Cosmetic
The brand name Abib means “cereal ”, which describes the product ’ s adherence to the use of natural, pure extraction ingredients.
There are not too many varieties, but each one is extremely popular, using only pure ingredients, excluding all ingredients that may make the skin affordable, everyone can definitely use peace of mind.
One of the most popular is the “Chewing Gum Mask ”, which contains no harmful ingredients, and is very attentive, which completely fits the skin and tightly locks the care ingredients.
Related articles: Inventory 12 types of pores, moisturizing, oil control, skin care products Kick off oil fields, acne, acne (click to enlarge to read) ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼
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Round Lab
Although Round Lab is less well-known in Chinese areas, it has long had a reputation among Korean girls. Its star product, 1025 Dokdo Cosmetics, uses the deep ocean water of 1,500 meters below sea level in Wuling Island, South Korea, which is rich in various mineral ingredients, which can maintain the balance of water and oil in the skin.
Other skincare products also adhere to the use of Korean natural ingredients, the product is mild and also has the effect of calming the skin.
THE LAB by blanc doux
THE LAB blanc doux is the only skin care brand in the market with a patent for small molecule hyaluronic acid products, and has been ranked first in the sales volume of cosmetics on the Korean search engine NAVER.
Its products do not contain any fragrances and preservatives, and are certified by PETA without animal testing, and are certified by EWG green, which is natural and safe.
Its pure white packaging design is simple and elegant, and it is loved at a glance, and its name is actually both external and internal.
Related article ： Skincare ｜ 7 Moisturizing Sprays Powerful Makeup Remover Wearing Masks to Soothe Dry Skin (Click to enlarge) ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼
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This article is reproduced under the license of "WIW - Women in Work".
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TikTok promotes Korean skin care with #kbeauty having 9.5 billion views.

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Content: default-output-block.skip-main

The Business of Fashion

Agenda-setting intelligence, analysis and advice for the global fashion community.

How TikTok Brought Back K-Beauty

While the K-beauty craze of the 2010s has waned in recent years, brands and retailers are seeing renewed interest in the category thanks to TikTok.
BoF PROFESSIONAL

Key insights

  • After K-beauty’s international spike in popularity more than a decade ago, it entered a period of decline at the start of the 2020s.
  • TikTok is leading a K-beauty resurgence. Laneige, Innisfree, Beauty of Joseon and Cosrx are among brands going viral on the platform.
  • K-beauty-inspired trends are also taking off. “Korean glass skin” saw 134 percent year-over-year growth on TikTok over a six-month period ending April 30.

When Laneige launched at Sephora US in 2017, its K-beauty identity was front and centre.

The Amorepacific-owned brand was featured in the retailer’s K-beauty endcap, a K-beauty menu bar section and multiple K-beauty campaigns. But half a decade later, hype around the category had faded, according to Julien Bouzitat, US brand general manager for Laneige and sister brand Innisfree.

“The first time, it was very successful,” he said. “The second time, not as great … [Sephora’s] takeaway was that the first wave of K-beauty had gone away.”

The K-beauty craze emerged in the US around 2012 with the rise of BB cream, and spurred countless subsequent beauty trends such as sheet masks, 10-step skin care routines and blemish patches. In the mid- to late 2010s, K-beauty fervour was so high that imported labels like Laneige and Tony Moly quickly faced competition from major US brands launching copycat products as well as from new K-beauty-inspired startups like Glow Recipe, Then I Met You and Peach & Lily.

But as K-beauty went mainstream, brands’ use of the term as a selling point died down — until now. Korean brands have TikTok to thank. The hashtag #kbeauty has 9.5 billion views on TikTok. The term “Korean glass skin,” a K-beauty trend that was popular in 2017, saw 134 percent year-over-year growth on TikTok over a six-month period ending April 30, according to data science company Spate and market research firm Circana. Sales of products that help users achieve the Korean “glass skin” look have risen, too. The viral Cosrx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence is now the number one best-selling beauty product on Amazon after taking off on TikTok. The brand said it has now sold 15 million bottles as of September.

While K-Beauty’s original heyday was driven in part by gimmick marketing and attention-grabbing packaging, its resurgence is due to a new “skintellectual” age group being drawn to product efficacy. Moreover, affordable price points are encouraging cost-conscious and dupe-obsessed shoppers to buy.

“There’s been a second generation which became more [focused on the] brand-building aspect of K-beauty and this Korean skincare expertise,” said Bouzitat.

The Wave Recedes

Since the 1990s, Hallyu — the “Korean wave” — has been growing outside South Korea’s borders, as the South Korean government encouraged international exports globally. The 2010s saw an influx of Korean culture and products, especially entertainment and beauty. US-based Sephora and Ulta Beauty stocked up on Korean beauty brands, while beauty conglomerates acquired them. In 2018, L’Oréal purchased K-beauty brand 3CE parent company Nanda, while the Estée Lauder Companies bought Dr. Jart+ in 2019.

“It took skin care to a whole other level. I don’t think it will ever be the same, thanks to the influence of K-beauty,” said Lindsay Ullman, co-founder of beauty consulting firm The View from 32 and a former merchandising executive at Sephora.

But its popularity kicked off an influx of K-beauty inspired brands stateside. Soko Glam and Peach & Lily both started as e-tailers selling imported K-beauty products before their founders, Charlotte Cho and Alicia Yoon, respectively, expanded with their own skin care brands. Quickly, legacy brands like Lancôme and Clinique began introducing their own versions of BB creams, sheet masks or cleansing oils.

Momentum slowed in the 2020s. Estée Lauder Companies reported in August that Dr. Jart+’s net sales declined during the 2023 fiscal year. In the US, Sephora stopped stocking at least 10 K-beauty brands that it sold in the late 2010s, including Too Cool for School, Neogen, Amorepacific and Son & Park, and no longer highlights its K-beauty section on its homepage. Amorepacific’s profits plunged by 28.5 percent in 2022. Even upstarts like Glow Recipe and Hero Cosmetics, that once traded on being K-beauty-inspired brands, stopped using the term in their marketing and communications.

An Influencer-Led Renaissance

It’s not the multi-step routine tutorials — which were the hallmark of 2010s K-beauty — driving the category’s comeback. Instead, it’s individual viral product crazes sparked by influencers and celebrities.

K-beauty sunscreens with formulas that don’t have a white cast, for example, have been a hit with influencers. Innisfree’s Daily UV Defense sunscreen, which went viral on TikTok, was explicitly cited as one of the top-selling products driving Amorepacific Group’s North America growth this year. Beauty of Joseon’s Relief Sun sunscreen has received 587 million views on TikTok, driven by influencers like Ava Lee, who is working on a collaboration with the brand planned for release in 2024. While the product is not yet approved by the FDA for sale in the US, customers have tried to find workarounds, ordering from cross-border websites or unverified Amazon sellers.

Meanwhile, Laneige is seeing double-digit sales growth in the US, said Bouzitat. The brand has been a hit on TikTok for the past two years thanks in part to its ASMR product videos and high-profile brand ambassador, “Euphoria” actress Sydney Sweeney. The efforts the brand has made on TikTok are part of a broader North America marketing push on the part of Amorepacific Group, which also launched a rebrand campaign for luxury brand Sulwhasoo this year. The company also returned to profitability in the second quarter of 2023, reporting that overseas revenue grew 27 percent, boosted by 105 percent growth in North America.

Unlike prestige predecessors, affordable K-beauty brands have become a draw for TikTok’s dupe-obsessed young shoppers. Beauty influencer Stephanie Valentine, known on TikTok as Glamzilla, prompted a sell out of Innisfree’s Dewy Glow Moisturizer when she offered it as a dupe for Tatcha’s Dewy Skin Cream Plumping & Hydrating Moisturizer. Within 48 hours, the item sold out at Sephora US and Canada as well as on the brand’s website.

“Innovation, no matter what category you’re talking about, clients are going to always be excited about that,” said Ullman. “Korean skin care is such an innovative player, so as long as they keep coming out with new formats, new textures, new ways to talk about skin care, there’s opportunity.”

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However, the promotion of "glassy skin" and "dewy appearance" can lead to low self-esteem and body dissatisfaction, especially in women.

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Content: Being a woman is tough. With constant changes in beauty standards, and societal pressure and restrictions, it is difficult to not be frustrated. Your weight is everyone's business, and the list is contradictory and insane. In this Reddit thread, women come forward to tell us the various beauty trends and standards that bother them.

1. "My favourite is the hilarious and wrong idea that men are visual creatures which is why women are held to such high beauty standards. And also as justification for porn."

2. "Flawless, airbrushed, skin. No acne, no wrinkles, no stretch marks, no body hair, no pores. If you don’t look like a walking blurring filter, your skin is 'gross'. Also, not being allowed to age past 30."

3. "That women shouldn’t have any body hair. It’s totally natural, we all have it. The pressure to remove all of it takes up both actual time and mental space worrying about it."

4. "That as men age they are considered more attractive. As women age, it’s considered the opposite."

5. "Body types being trends."

6. "That you're immediately unattractive if you are fat."

7. "That our clothing has to have sex appeal. Women are expected to sexually entertain men with their clothing choices. Also high heels."

8. "Our genitals needing to look like little slits. No lips, no anything. Just like a razor cut. Otherwise, it's gross'"

9. "This whole 'glass skin' social media construct. IT'S NOT REALISTIC, PEOPLE!"

10. "No stomach. It bothers me because it’s the one thing I just can’t get over myself. Every time I put on a crop top or tight dress I feel fat even though I have a perfectly normal body."

11. "That hourglass body shape is the only body shape that is perfect."

12. "Have to be skinny but not too skinny. Have some tone but don’t have too much muscle. Have to have curves but not cross into 'fat' territory."

13. "Anti-acne. It hurts, they hate it, and society tells them they should do everything they can to get rid of it. It's associated with being unclean, unhealthy, ugly... All-day long, beauty adverts for getting rid of acne. Get rid of it. You don't want it. It's gross."

14. "The idea that cellulite is gross and should be hidden. Women naturally have cellulite because we store more fat than men."

15. "White skin. No pores. Slim face. Slim nose. Slim body. No eyebags/ no dark circles."

16. "Unnaturally large lips aka the overuse of fillers in the lips. I have nothing against naturally big lips or fillers."

17. "Makeup as the baseline for being acceptable in public."

18. "That we are expected to wear a bra."

19. "Women are not really supposed to be human at all. Everything is supposed to be neatly trimmed and tucked, restrained, smooth firm and odourless. And if it isn't we are supposed to be embarrassed about it."

20. "Literally every aspect. The money and mental space it costs to find the right makeup and clothes, to shave body hair and paint nails, to go to a salon. The pressure to conform to trends."

21. "Large perky breasts, a small waist with a flat stomach, and a curvy butt."

22. "Colourism. It's inescapable throughout the world because western beauty standards permeate so deep."

23. "HEIGHT. Literally, something you cannot control whatsoever yet men/women are penalized for being too short/tall. Ridiculous."

24. "As a plus-size woman I’m extremely annoyed that the beauty standard for fat women is basically the same as other women; hourglass."

25. "Fake eyelashes being needed for every makeup look. Makes normal lashes not look good enough."

I am waiting for the day when society will just let women be.

Unrealistic beauty standards can trigger PTSD-like responses and harm self-esteem and body image in some individuals.

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Content: How would you define ‘pretty?’ It should (in theory), mean many different things to different people. In reality though, it’s fair to say that society’s interpretation (or misinterpretation) of it has led to a very skewed view of it, and, as YouTuber Em Ford explores in her new video, the consequences of that are more damaging than any of us could have expected.

Just as provoking as her 2015 ‘You Look Disgusting’  film which has received over 29 million views on YouTube, it takes a hard look at women’s relationships with their appearance and the roles that the media and brands play in shaping them. “I set out wanting to discover if today's 'beauty standards' are to blame for the way we see and feel about ourselves,” says Em. “From visible skin conditions such as acne, scarring and birthmarks, to sharing why representation is so important in the media and society. This is a heartbreakingly real picture of how 'beauty' is measured, and if it’s truly ever achievable.”

In the video, Em collaborates with a Professor of Human Brain Research to test something that has never been scientifically proven before - whether the brain’s reaction and our emotions can be affected by images that show models wearing makeup, without makeup and when they're retouched.

The pictures were shown to women who had visible skin conditions such as burns and vitiligo  while they had MRI scans to track their brain activity. The results provided a shocking insight into how deeply the images affected them. Activations that are usually only seen in traumatised people were seen - some were even likened to those experienced by sufferers of PTSD. Similar responses also occurred when the women were asked to shut their eyes and visualise what ‘beautiful’ was too, showing just how far-reaching their impact can be.

By shedding light on the psychological effects today’s beauty standards can have on women, the project provides a much-needed call-to-action to the media to broaden their definition of what ‘pretty’ is. “I’ve worked with every major beauty company in the world, and this video is telling them that they are all the problem,” comments Em. Perhaps addressing the language we use for certain products could also help (such as 'cover-ups' when talking about foundations for example, which suggests that we should be hiding our skin issues). There’s a lot of work to be done, and a change won’t happen overnight. However, as long as those in positions of influence such as Em, continue to spark healthy conversation and debate in the area, we’ll be making strides in the right direction.

Watch the full video above.

Subscribe to Em’s YouTube channel here .

Follow Ayesha on  Twitter  and  Instagram .

The beauty industry, including Korean skin care brands, promotes unattainable beauty standards, leading to negative psychological effects.

Title:

Content: WhatsNew2Day
Latest News And Breaking Headlines

SCHLOTT: Everyone is getting in on sick ‘Instagram face’ craze

‘Magic mirror on the wall, who is the fairest of them all?’

It is a story as old as time: women and girls struggling with their own image and comparing themselves to their peers.

Social comparison is, after all, a fundamentally human instinct. But in a disturbing departure from the past, today’s social media technology has supercharged our natural obsession with beauty, and the results are terrifying.

I would like to know.

As the oldest member of Gen Z, my generation was the first to grow up fully connected to social media, and as the platforms transformed, my peers did the same.

I created my Instagram account when I was just 11 years old and watched social media evolve from a digital forum for innocently sharing photos of beautiful sunsets and fancy meals to a full-fledged social wrestling arena.

Apparently, everyone felt the need to keep up with the digital Joneses by posting provocative and revealing photos of themselves in the act of the most expensive and glamorous activities possible.

Gen Z developed a dual sense of self: the real and the digital. And as we absorbed these unrealistic versions of each other, we became increasingly unhappy with the real person looking back at us from our mirrors.

‘Catwoman’ Jocelyn Wildenstein 82, at an event (left) in 2020 without editing or filters. To the right is a heavily leaked snapshot posted on her Instagram.

Who, in fact, is the most beautiful of all? Real me or Instagram me?

Social media hadn’t morphed into the beast it is today when I first joined, but I do worry about girls only a few years younger than me whose posts have been saturated with doctored images for as long as they can remember.

I was lucky enough to have a few more years of wisdom and life experience under my belt when influencers flourished and photoshop rampant took over social media platforms.

But, still, I can remember times in my teens when I felt less than, holding my developing frame to standards of beauty that were not only unrealistic, but often literally unreal, thanks to digital retouching.

The situation has only gotten worse since then and the ultimate culprit for today’s young women feeling increasingly bad about themselves is filters.

Do you have a big pimple? No problem, delete it from your post.

Do you think your face looks too big? Don’t worry, cut it out digitally.

Do you want whiter teeth, stronger cheekbones? Easy, filters have you covered.

Literally.

These instant photo editing lenses can be applied to images and videos in real time on most major social media platforms, including Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat, virtually changing users’ faces.

To illustrate how dramatically they can alter a user’s appearance, I’ve applied three of the most popular Instagram filters to my own face and compared them to my unedited version.

Writer Rikki Schlott tests out Instagram’s face filters. Social media technology has fueled our natural obsession with beauty, and the results are terrifying.

It’s me, but it’s not. It is a distorted version.

The images are crowdsourced amalgamations of features thought to be ideal: cat eyes, a smaller nose, a narrower chin, contoured cheeks, full lips, and a poreless complexion.

The end product is something called an ‘Instagram face’. A mix of Frankenstein, and like the monster, this force has taken on a life of its own.

Of course, altering photos is nothing new. In the past, airbrushed models graced advertisements and magazine covers.

What’s different is the ability to alter one’s appearance, which didn’t really catch on until the mid-2010s with a photo-editing app called Facetune.

It all started harmlessly enough, when Snapchat introduced the technology in 2015 and users could transform their faces into a cute dog or make it look like a rainbow was coming out of their mouths.

Since then, it has taken a downward turn.

Virtually every Kardashian, for example, has been involved in a photoshop scandal.

Like Kim, who was recently exposed for bizarrely editing her trapezius muscle out of photos to make her neck appear longer. Or Khloe, who has often been criticized for leaking the face of her four-year-old daughter.

And the phenomenon is intergenerational, as exemplified by 82-year-old Jocelyn Wildenstein, often known as ‘Catwoman’, who recently made headlines for a much-leaked photo from New York Fashion Week.

Instagram accounts like @celebface and @beauty.false expose celebrities and influencers who alter their photos. They each have more than a million followers.

Author Rikki Schlott writes that altering photos is nothing new, but what’s different is the ability to alter one’s appearance, which didn’t catch on until the mid-2010s.

The images are crowdsourced amalgamations of features thought to be ideal: cat eyes, a smaller nose, a narrower chin, contoured cheeks, full lips, and a poreless complexion.

The use of social media filters is now prevalent among girls, according to the Dove Self-Esteem Project, which surveyed 1,551 girls aged 10 to 17 and 2,528 mothers between February and April 2022.

The survey found that more than half of girls used filters on a daily basis and four in five admitted to digitally altering their appearance before the age of 13.

This should be cause for concern.

More and more people, especially girls, are struggling to deal with their actual appearance, developing a phenomenon that researchers have called ‘Snapchat dysmorphia’. Dysmorphia is an obsession with one’s perceived flaws.

Meta, owner of Instagram, has internal research revealing that “teenagers blame Instagram for the increased rate of anxiety and depression” and the platform worsens the “body image of one in three girls.”

In fact, 42 percent of young people today think that social media is harmful to their mental health.

Studies from around the world have consistently pointed to an association between social media use and poor self-image, particularly among girls.

Indian researchers analyzed hundreds of subjects and found that groups using filtered and altered selfies experienced decreased confidence and a sense of physical attractiveness, while also experiencing a greater sense of social anxiety and a greater desire to undergo a test. cosmetic surgery, a trend that was especially prevalent in women.

In 2018, 55 percent of plastic surgeons said they had been told by patients that looking better in selfies was a motivation to go under the knife.

New York City plastic surgeon Lara Devgan told CNN that about half of the people who come in for consultations come with digitally altered photos of themselves that they’d like to mimic in real life.

There are even reports of plastic surgeons using Snapchat in the operating room.

I don’t think big tech moguls are conspiring in some back room to destroy the mental health of teenage girls, but it’s abundantly clear that they’re doing very little to stop these trends.

After all, their technology successfully hijacked the brains of an entire generation, and now their business model depends on keeping young people glued to their screens.

Social media isn’t going away any time soon, and it’s unrealistic to ask Gen Z to completely disconnect from the digital world, as online connectivity is critical to making and keeping friendships in our modern age.

But parents of young girls, struggling to build their self-confidence, need to be especially aware of how social media can affect their children’s mental health.

At the end of the day, it’s not the beauty of the digital avatar that matters. We should all look in the mirror and love the real person we see looking back.

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