Korean Skincare and Rice Water: K-Beauty Brands in India to Check Out

Korean cosmetics, often referred to as K-beauty products, have become a global phenomenon, captivating beauty enthusiasts from Seoul to Siliguri. This rise in popularity isn't just a fleeting trend; it's here to stay for good. That’s due to the fact that today, in the Indian beauty market, there are as many Korean or Japanese skincare brands as there are Indian skincare brands curating K-beauty products. 

The Influence of K-Beauty

Korean beauty brands are at the forefront of innovation, constantly introducing groundbreaking ingredients and formulations. Whether it's sheet masks soaked in essence, cushion compacts for easy application, or gentle yet effective BB creams, these innovations keep the K-beauty market exciting and fresh.

Korean beauty products are well promoted on television and the internet and are used by many famous K-drama stars and K-pop bands like Blackpink. Korean beauty brands made their way into India offering consumers unique skincare products that are not commonly found here. Be it unique ingredients like matcha, rice water, yuzu, cherry blossom or skincare concepts like the 10-step Korean skincare routine, the influence of K-beauty is evident,

Rice Water in Korean Skincare

Korean beauty philosophy places a strong emphasis on skin health and hydration. Rice water is known to be a popular beauty ingredient which has an incredible impact on skin and hair. Also, it is the secret ingredient of Korean beauty that the world is obsessing over these days. Rice water is said to be packed with several nutrients, minerals, vitamins, and amino acids which makes it a cost-effective addition to your beauty regimen. Apart from skincare products with rice water as an ingredient, homemade rice water has become a popular DIY staple.

Korean Brands and Products that have Made their Way to India

1. The Face Shop Rice Water Bright Foaming Cleanser

A personal favourite for years now, this delivers what it promises. It is enriched with rice extracts that offer your skin a clear and even complexion. Enriched with a natural rice water solution with brightening properties, it cleanses skin with its whipped cream-like texture. The Face Shop Rice Water Bright Foaming Cleanser contains rice water, soapwart which deep cleanses the skin and moringa oil that’s hydrating.

Price: Rs. 849 for 150ml

2. Thank You Farmer Rice Pure Clay Mask to Foam Cleanser

This face cleanser promises to unclog pores, control excess sebum, remove impurities, dead skin cells, brightens complexion and strengthen skin barrier. A unique 2-in-1 brightening product, the Thank You Farmer Rice Pure Clay Mask to Foam Cleanser can be used as a cleanser and mask both. The brand claims that the detoxifying Kaolin and Bentonite clays absorb excess oil and unclog pores, while gentle Rice, Quinoa, Yulmu, and Oat Extracts work together to remove impurities and brightens skin. Other ingredients include Vitamin E, Vitamin B2 that are said to prevent skin's moisture loss.

Price: Rs. 1,999 for 150ml

3. COSRX Ultimate Nourishing Rice Overnight Spa Mask

The brand that went viral for using snail mucin as a skincare ingredient, has a mask that has the goodness of rice extract. The COSRX Ultimate Nourishing Rice Overnight Spa Mask is supposed to brighten and soften dull, flaky skin as well as nourish and moisturise tired skin. It is a 3-in-1 hydrating mask that can be used as an overnight mask, a cream or as a wash-off mask.

Price: Rs. 1,390 for 60ml

4. Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun : Rice + Probiotics With SPF 50+ PA++++

This is a lightweight and creamy type organic sunscreen that's comfortable on skin. Containing 30% rice extract and grain fermented extracts, Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun is said to provide moisture and nourishment to the skin. The brand states that rice and grain fermented extracts are rich in vitamins B, C, E, amino acids, and minerals which help to moisturise dry skin and comfortably calm the skin. Their claim is that even if you apply a large amount before makeup, it does not clump or get cakey.

Price: Rs. 350 for 10ml

5. Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Hyaluronic Toner

A daily, light-weight, this hydrating toner is said to be packed with nourishing ingredients to seep within the deepest layer of your skin and give you visible results. The Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Hyaluronic Toner is a hypoallergenic toner even safer for sensitive skin. Infused with fermented black rice extract, hyaluronic acid, and other nourishing ingredients, this toner claims to help to restore skin elasticity, deeply moisturise, and alleviate tightness.

Price: Rs. 1,599 for 150ml