Top 10 Best Korean Foundations | Buying Guide
When it comes to makeup, each product is important and holds a different aspect. One such amazing essential product on makeup kits is Foundation.
It is not possible to provide or get flawless skin without Foundation. Especially, Korean foundations are more popular for this effect worldwide.
Because they provide not just coverage but also come with ingredients that are skin-friendly, so they'll never cause any skin problems like itching, acne, at any cost!
The Korean foundations are available in different types, such as matte, semi-matte, and dewy. So, it might be difficult for you to choose the right product that suits you!
This is why we have listed the best Korean foundations that are available on the market today! Come on, let's break it one by one!
The 10 Best Korean Foundations
1. Etude House Double Lasting Foundation
Our Pick
Are you looking for a foundation with a longer effect? Then, the Foundation from Etude House might be the right one for you because it stays on your skin all day and doesn't smudge or wear off when you sweat as it is waterproof.
This is ideal for someone who hates to retouch up in the middle because it offers full coverage throughout the day.
They are incorporated with sunscreen, protecting skin from any damages caused by the sun with its amazing SPF 34.
This is popular for its wonderful dewy finish, extremely works well on oily skin, but not a perfect choice for dry skin as this may dry the skin even more!
Pros
- Contains Magnet-like adhesion for a long-lasting effect
- Formulated with SPF 34
- Excellent coverage
- Ideal for oily or combination skin
Cons
- Some won't like this scent as it smells like glue
- Has 12 different shades only for lighter tones
- Not the right one for dry skin
Bestseller (lists)
ETUDE HOUSE New Double Lasting Foundation (Neutral Vanilla) SPF35/ PA++| High Coverage Weightless Foundation | 24-Hours Lasting Double Cover | Magnet-Like Adherence without Stickiness | Makeup Base Everything Else
- HIGH COVERAGE: Just one layer of the Double Lasting Foundation will guarantee you a flawless skin, thanks to the “Double Shot Technology” amd moderately protects skin from UV-rays
- MAGNET-LIKE ADHERENCE: “Magnet Fit Effect” allows your morning coat of foundation stay on like magnet, delivering weightless, long-wearing full coverage
- 24-HOUR LONG LASTING TESTED. Research officially conducted by Ellead, a cosmetics clinical evaluation institution
2. Etude House Beauty Shot Face Blur
Best for Textured Skin
We all do want to grab the skin tone that is exactly like photoshopped. But we know that it is not possible without some technologies.
But the products from Etude House pull us very close to what we are looking for.
With this Foundation, you can have flawless skin along with a long-lasting effect.
Sadly, this is not suitable for darker skins as they are only for lighter tones.
But, if you have fair skin, you can use this in your daily makeup!
Pros
- Can be effective in hiding any kind of pores
- Great for fair complexion skin
- Lasts longer
- Flawless skin
Cons
- Not the right one dark complexion
- Very low SPF
Bestseller (lists)
Etude House Beauty Shot Face Blur SPF33/PA Plus,1.23 Ounce Health & Personal Care
- This lightweight cream provides multi-blurring effects for instantly refined and smooth skin
- Skin's texture is smoothed; pores minimized and complexion brightened
- Gram :35 Gram ... Read More
3. Laneige BB Cushion Pore Control
Best for Large Pores
Are you suffering from oily skin with large pores? Then, the Laneige BB Cushion Pore Control would be the best option!
It offers great coverage on your skin, just like the Etude Face Blur, but mainly concentrates on minimizing your pores.
They provide you a matte finish but won't dry your skin! But still, this might not be suitable for some tones.
This works extremely well on oily skin by controlling the extra sebum with its powder form.
The added benefit of this Foundation is it's packed amazingly, and you'll definitely love that package.
Pros
- Protects skin from sun damages with its SPF 50
- Ideal for oily skin
- Lightweight
- Awesome package
Cons
- Heavily fragranced
- Only light coverage
Bestseller (lists)
Laneige BB Cushion #11 Light Beige [Pore Control] Plus Refill 0.5 Oz/15g x 2 (2015 New) Beauty
- Laneige BB Cushion Pore Control SPF50+ PA+++ (2015 New)
- #11 Light Beige + Refill 0.5 Oz/15g
- Pore Control : Contains Pore Purifying Complex cleans pores and strenghtens skin barrier
- Long Lasting : Anti-darkening Powder keeps makeup last longer without darkening
- Instant Cooling Effect n Silicon Elastomer & Soft Focus Powder covers pores effectively ... Read More
4. Peripera Airy Ink Cushion
Do you want a Korean foundation that is effective in dry skin and controls excessive sebum production? Then, try out the Peripera Airy ink Foundation.
What's great about this product is it comes in an impressive and convenient package.
This is a foundation to help cover redness and flushes on your skin.
So, this could be great for someone with dry and sensitive or red skin.
Even it looks like a powder, giving you light coverage with a dewy finish.
However, you look more natural with this Foundation.
Pros
- Hydrates your skin
- Reduces oil production
- Covers the redness, scars, and wrinkles
- lightweight
Cons
- None
Bestseller (lists)
5. Sulwhasoo Perfecting Cushion Brightening SPF50 Plus
Suppose your primary concern is whitening or brightening. In that case, the Korean Foundation by Sulwhasoo is the right one for you because it contains magnolia extracts for brightening and fine pearl powder for a luminous look!
This can offer great coverage as much as possible with whitening skin. You may feel sheer at first, but you'll get excellent coverage when you use this more!
Finally, you'll have a dewy finish, but when time passes, it might take texture like satin!
Pros
- Magnolia extracts for whitening skin tone
- Excellent coverage
- Provides dewy finish
- It can provide even skin by adding more layers
Cons
- Includes alcohol as an ingredient
- Only a few shades
Bestseller (lists)
Sulwhasoo Perfecting Cushion Brightening SPF50 Plus, 2015, No.23 Medium Beige, 4.47 Ounce Beauty & Personal Care
- A cushion foundation that offers full coverage to conceal imperfections while bringing out flawless radiance to the complexion.
- This cushion includes a moisturizing blend of apricot seed and Korean herbs, and creates a flawless radiant glow.
- Covers spots and signs of wrinkles using a special watercolor method which disperses color into water instead of oil.
- A film-fixing polymer forms a perfectly seamless layer for beautiful makeup that lasts up to 12 hours. <... Read More
6. Althea Aurora Cover Cushion
The Dr. Althea Aurora Korean foundation is probably for someone who lives in humid climates and for the summer season as well.
This is formulated with various active ingredients to brighten and moisturize the skin.
This is probably for those with acne-prone or dry skin as it locks the moisture all day!
It gives you excellent coverage with a natural look as its applicator helps reduce Foundation's oxidation.
But only the disappointment of the product is it is only available in three different shades.
Pros
- Contain 60% essence for moisturizing the skin
- Applicator minimizes its oxidation
- Has SPF 50
- Ideal for brightening
Cons
- Only three different shades
Bestseller (lists)
7. Missha M Magic Foundation
The Korean Foundation from Missha can effectively moisturize the skin with a matte finish. You can never see this combination in a foundation, so all Kudos to the team of Missha to make this happen!
This is developed with several active ingredients for more firm and younger-looking skin for longer. This is lightweight, buildable, and perfect for everyday use.
You'll also love this blur effect, and it makes you feel its amazing result instantly.
Pros
- Great coverage
- Conceals dark circles, blemishes
- Makes the skin tone evener
- Lightweight
Cons
- None
Bestseller (lists)
WEN DF1100T 11,000-Watt 120V/240V Dual Fuel Portable Generator with Wheel Kit and Electric Start - CARB Compliant, Black Garden & Outdoor
- Switch between gasoline (11,000 surge watts, 8,300 running watt) and propane (9,500 surge, 7,500 running) with the simple turn of the selection dial
- Voltage easily goes from 120V to 240V, perfect for transfer switches and emergency backup
- Electric start powers the 457cc 4-stroke OHV engine with the turn of a key
- 6.6-gallon tank provides up to 8.5 hours of half load run time
- Includes four 120V GFCI outlets (5-20R), a 120V 30A twist lock outlet (L5-30R), a ... Read More
8. Peripera Airy Ink Foundation
This is another foundation by Peripera, but it is cream-based.
What's amazing about this product is its essence as core, combining makeup with skincare.
Finally, this will end up real looking silky and smooth finish, but do not dry the skin.
This is blendable and buildable, providing a natural look with its softer texture.
Besides, this also contains NMF5 effectors for skin nourishment and ammino acid for anti-aging.
Pros
- Includes core essence
- Act as an anti-aging cream
- Hydrates the skin
- Easily blendable
Bestseller (lists)
9. Troiareuke Korean Skincare A+ Cushion Foundation
Now it is harder to find the Foundation that is effective in acne-prone. Many will often switch to various makeup products to avail what they are exactly looking for.
Importantly, you'll need to cover up all the imperfections on your skin, at the same time, you'd need to allow your skin to breathe.
Do you want a foundation with all these combining aspects? Then, the Korean Foundation by Troiareuke is the right one as this contains tea tree extract and Centella Asiatica for covering acne-prone without affecting the skin.
Being sunscreen protects your skin from sun damage.
Pros
- Includes Centella Asiatica and tea tree extract for acne-prone skin
- Allergic free
- Contains SPF 50
- Prevents sun damages
Cons
- It requires constant retouch up as this wears off quickly.
Bestseller (lists)
TROIAREUKE H+ Cushion Foundation 21 Beige - SPF50+ PA++++ Healing Skincare Cushion (H+ #21) Beauty
- ... Read More
10. Touch in Sol Advanced Real Moisture Liquid Foundation
Unlike others on this list, this liquid Korean Foundation is budget-friendly.
Since this is a liquid form, you'll only require a small amount to achieve a perfect finish.
It offers medium coverage but can be buildable and help you achieve a natural look.
It will also cover all the uneven patches on your skin with its color correction properties.
Pros
- Color correction properties
- Longer lasting effect
- It is buildable
Cons
- Makes a skin oily within an hour, so suitable for only dry skin
Bestseller (lists)
TOUCH IN SOL Advanced Real Moisture Liquid Foundation 1.01 fl. oz. (30ml) - A Light Weight Hydrating Foundation, Long Lasting High Adhesive Coverage (#21 Nude Beige) Beauty & Personal Care
- Elevate your complexion with this lightweight, hydrating foundation. This creamy, moisture-rich formula matches your skin tone and provides buildable coverage to conceal blemishes, color-correct redness and uneven patches, and leave you with truly flawless skin in one swipe.
- Highly recommended by makeup artists and beauty editors
- How to Use : After makeup base or primer, apply the proper amount of the content and spread evenly over the face and finish by dabbing. ... Read More
Why Korean Foundations?
The best Korean foundations leave your skin healthier along with a natural finish. But others may leave your skin with a matte or dewy finish.
This helps cover blemish and blemished skin and aging signs like fine lines, wrinkles, under eyes, etc. They go one step forward and leave your skin smoother, hydrated, and moisturized.
What to Look for in a Foundation?
Choosing the best Korean Foundation includes three different factors: coverage, shades, and its aspects.
Coverage matters in each makeup. All makeup lovers prefer coverage, including covering dark spots, hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and wrinkles. But some only want to keep the skin light and natural to achieve an even finish.
However, it is not good to wear makeup every day with full coverage all day long because it may spoil the skin tone and texture. So, let them breathe every once in a while.
When it comes to the shades, there is a lot for lighter and darker skin. You can find Korean foundations with many different shades because the lighter shade won't be effective on darker or medium skin. You'll find over five shades on every Foundation on the market today.
For the third one, you'll find several aspects in most Korean foundations that can never be found in other foundations. On that list, one of the best and best aspects is its SPF formula. This is most valued in Asian countries because they want to protect the skin from sun damages. So, the Korean-made foundations include SPF for sun protection along with aspects mentioned above.
We are sure that you'll have a flawless finish with Korean made Foundation because, for Korean people, makeup is everything other than coverage.
How to Choose the Best Foundation Shade?
Finding the best Foundation is more important in makeup than other things. So, there are a lot of factors that you need to consider before buying Korean foundations. Since they mostly have lighter shades for light and fair skin, you can find some foundations for medium or darker skin as well.
Most will make the same mistakes when choosing the right foundation for their skin tone. They will always test the Foundation only on applying hands back, but this is not fair!
Because some face tones will totally differ from hands, if it's the case, you'll end up choosing the wrong Foundation.
Select the place that exactly reflects your face tone for testing foundation shades.
Importantly, the skin's outer layer color may change frequently or periodically for various reasons due to sun exposure or acne. But what remains standard is your inner tone. There are three different undertones: warm, cool, and neutral.
A cool tone tends to be a more pink, red, or blue color. For this tone, stay away from yellowish Foundation as this makes your skin sallow.
A warm tone meant to be a golden and peachy skin; you can go for the slight yellow Foundation for this skin.
Neutral, on the other hand, a combination of these two tones. So, you have to choose the shade that sits in the middle between yellow or pink.
There is a way to find out your undertones that is your veins. If they are blue or purple indicates that you have a cool tone, while green veins indicate a warm tone. But if they are almost similar to skin color or bluish-green, it is neutral.
The Best Foundation Finish for Every Skin Type
There is also one more important thing you need to consider when choosing the best Korean Foundation, which is foundation finish.
Make sure that you'll buy the right finish that suits your skin.
For oily skin, select the Foundation that is oil-free or matte finish, while dry skin needs a foundation with an oily or moisturizing effect. For dry skin, look for the Foundation that contains hydration properties. This will leave your skin smoother and softer for hours.
Sensitive skin, on the other hand, chooses products that don't contain any irritating substances. So, try to avoid over fragranced Foundation if you have sensitive skin.
For combination skin, powder-based Foundation would be the right choice!
A Note About Korean Foundations
Makeup products from Korean markets are lighter than Western brands. This is because it is crucial to allow the skin to breathe.
They put more effort into nourishes, moistures, and healthier skin than perfect finish, so they'll only cover up imperfections.
Most Korean foundations are sheer, lighter, and cover the skin with the texture they have, so you can only expect light coverage from this. But they look more natural than other brands on the market.
The added benefit of the Korean foundations is they contain serum as their base. This is uncommon to find in other foundations.
The serum helps you fix various skin problems and provides a natural and dewy finish.
This is why everyone prefers Korean foundations when it comes to makeup.
Factors to consider when choosing a Korean foundation
Choosing a Korean foundation might be difficult because they come in different shades, types, etc. Each skin requires different foundation types. For instance, a dew finish is a great option for one with oily skin.
This is why you need to consider some factors before making a choice. Here are some of the factors to be considered when choosing the best and right Korean Foundation.
Ingredients: Do you opt for Korean products with natural ingredients? Then, this is the Foundation for you. Choose the Foundation that excludes heavy ingredients like aluminum or talc or some allergens. However, it is better to do a patchy test before buying them.
Long-lasting: If the product doesn't last too long, then they are not worth it. Make sure the Foundation you buy lasts up to 8 hours so that you no need to retouch up frequently.
Coverage: There are different Korean foundations with different ranges. It is better to go for the one that offers full coverage for special occasions and light to medium for normal days.
Your skin type determines what type you require, so choose the right Korean foundations based on that. If you want to have a natural look, go for the light to medium option.
Shades: Your skin tone always matters when looking for the right Korean Foundation. The Foundation's base comes up with different shades ranging from light to dark. So, select a shade that offers an even and flawless skin tone.
Sun protection: This is also vital, and so consider this before choosing one. The best Foundation offers beyond covering or hydrating the skin. So, the Foundation that you'll buy should prevent the skin from sun damage along with all the above aspects.
Types of Korean Foundation
Like other factors, you'll also have a different type of Korean Foundation: liquid, powder, whipped, or stick.
Liquid foundations: These foundations are a more common and reliable type. When you apply this on the skin, it deeply gets into the skin and offers great coverage to dry or even combination skin. This is the best choice if you want to cover dry patches, blemishes, and uneven tones.
Powder foundations:
This is one of the most convenient foundations on the market. You can carry this with you for re-touch-ups. As this has a dry formula, it is best for the skin with oily. This loose powder absorbs the excessive sebum on the skin and leaves your skin a matte finish.
You can also choose this option for full skin coverage. This might not be the perfect one if you want a light or natural look.
Whipped foundations: This is an uncommon type, but gradually making a fan base for them. This is lightweight, provides a matte finish, making you look and feel fresh throughout the day. This will opt for any skin type, even dry and aged skin.
Stick foundations: They are easy to use, carry, and can be used to cover blemishes' skin. This is thicker than liquid Foundation, so you can use this as a concealer either!
Conclusion
When it comes to skin and makeup products, Korean products are exceptional. So, there is no exception for its foundations as well. Not just for coverage but also for hydration and protecting the skin from various damages.
We all love one of the Korean foundations on these lists: The Etude House Double Lasting Foundation because you don't have to reapply the cream in the middle as it lasts too long.
Another best one on this list is the Etude House Beauty Shot Face Blur, as you can pair this cream with any other makeup products for even and well-complex skin.
We hope this article will help you in choosing the best Korean Foundation. If you have a doubt related to this topic, leave your comment here. We will get back to you as soon as possible.
