Here's a Korean skincare glossary with commonly used terms:

  • Ampoule: A highly concentrated serum that targets specific skin concerns, often used as a treatment step.
  • BB Cream: Short for "Blemish Balm," a multi-functional product that combines skincare and makeup, providing coverage and sun protection.
  • Cushion Compact: A compact with a sponge soaked in liquid foundation or BB cream for easy, on-the-go application.
  • Double Cleansing: A two-step cleansing method that involves using an oil-based cleanser followed by a water-based cleanser to thoroughly remove makeup, dirt, and impurities.
  • Emulsion: A lightweight moisturizer with a milky texture that provides hydration and helps seal in moisture.
  • Essence: A lightweight, hydrating product that delivers nourishment and moisture to the skin, often used after toner and before serums.
  • Exfoliation: The process of removing dead skin cells to reveal smoother and brighter skin. It can be done using physical scrubs or chemical exfoliants.
  • Fermentation: The process of using microorganisms, such as yeast or lactobacillus, to break down ingredients, resulting in improved absorption and increased efficacy.
  • Glass Skin: A term used to describe the idealized, clear, and luminous complexion that appears smooth, hydrated, and radiant.
  • Hanbang: Traditional Korean herbal medicine ingredients used in skincare products, known for their healing and nourishing properties.
  • Hyaluronic Acid: A popular humectant that attracts and retains moisture, providing intense hydration and plumping effect to the skin.
  • K-beauty: An umbrella term for Korean beauty products, skincare routines, and trends known for their focus on innovative ingredients and multi-step regimens.
  • PHA (Polyhydroxy Acid): A gentle chemical exfoliant that helps remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and improve skin texture.
  • Sebum: The oily substance produced by the skin's sebaceous glands that helps moisturize and protect the skin.
  • Sheet Mask: A face-shaped sheet soaked in serums or essences that delivers targeted ingredients and hydration to the skin.
  • Sleeping Mask: An overnight treatment that provides intense hydration and nourishment to the skin while you sleep.
  • Snail Mucin: A popular skincare ingredient derived from snail secretion, known for its hydrating and repairing properties.
  • SPF: Sun Protection Factor measures the level of protection against UVB rays. It indicates how much longer you can stay in the sun without getting burned.
  • Sunscreen: A product that protects the skin from harmful UV rays, preventing sunburn, skin damage, and premature aging.
  • Toner: A water-based product used after cleansing to balance the skin's pH, hydrate, and prepare it for better absorption of subsequent products.

Remember that this is just a small selection of terms commonly used in Korean skincare. The beauty industry is constantly evolving, and new terms and ingredients may emerge over time.