beauty

'I've saved hundreds since switching to Korean makeup. Here are 10 products I'll never stop using.'

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If you've read any of my previous beauty reviews, you'll know I have a very strong obsession with K-beauty.

I made the switch to Korean skincare years ago after realising two things:

A) I simply couldn't justify the price tags of my favourite Western products anymore when Korean options were literally a fraction of the cost, and B) the formulas — often far more innovative — delivered even better results.

WATCH: Makeup artist Sarah Marie puts a Korean blush to the test. Post continues below.


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After falling head over heels for Korean skincare, it was only natural I dipped my toes into Korean makeup, too. Fast forward a few years, and I'm officially hooked.

I've tested hundreds (if not thousands) of products, and so many of the formulas are spot-on dupes for high-end Western ones I used to love.

Think: an $8 concealer that performs just as well as a $77 one, or a $25 BB cream that completely replaced my old $82 favourite. Let's just say I've saved a lot of money… which I now happily spend on, well, more Korean beauty products.

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So, after years of testing and obsessing, here are the Korean makeup products I swear by — and have recommended to countless friends, family and strangers.

The best Korean makeup products to buy in Australia.

The Saem Cover Tip Concealer, $6.80 (usually $8.90).

Image: Lila Beauty.

When it comes to concealers, there are a few viral heavyweights that always get mentioned — think Giorgio Armani Luminous, NARS Radiant Creamy and MAC Pro Longwear. But instead of dropping close to $100, you can get a near-identical result for under $10 with this gem from The Saem.

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It covers imperfections, scars, redness and dark circles beautifully, without creasing or caking. It's also infused with glacier water to keep skin hydrated and contains reflective powders for a naturally glowy, healthy finish. You can read my The Saem review here.

d'Alba Waterfull Vegan Tone-Up Sun Cream, $34.50 (usually $55).

Image: Lila Beauty.

This product literally flies off the shelves in Seoul. It's a skin-tone perfector that instantly brightens dull skin, evens tone and gives that soft, lit-from-within glow, which is perfect for no-makeup days.

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It comes in three tinted shades, with the beige-pink being the most popular both in Korea and internationally, as it flatters the widest range of skin tones. You can read my full d'Alba Cream review here.

Missha M Perfect Cover BB Cream, $15.50 (usually $25).

Image: Lila Beauty.

This is a true Korean cult favourite that feels and performs almost identically to the $82 IT Cosmetics CC Cream, but for a fraction of the price.

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Packed with hyaluronic acid, peptides, collagen and ceramides, it delivers hydration, a calming effect and a subtle dewy glow (think glass skin, without the grease). The slightly thicker texture offers excellent coverage for discolouration while still looking effortlessly natural.

Jung Saem Mool Essential Skin Nuder Cushion with Refill, $36.53 (usually $54.79). 

Image: YesStyle.

If you want more coverage than a tint or BB cream, look no further.

Cushion foundations are huge in Korea, and this one from Jung Saem Mool is my top pick. It works beautifully on a range of skin types (not too matte, not too dewy) and gives all-day, natural-looking coverage without caking. I actually rate it higher than the viral TirTir one everyone's talking about online.

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Banila Co Prime Primer Finish Pact, $30.15 (usually $33.50).

Image: YesStyle.

I absolutely loved my Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Finish Powder, but then I stumbled across this compact during a trip to Seoul and realised it was basically the same thing — just $40 cheaper (AND it comes with a powder puff!).

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It instantly blurs pores and leaves your skin looking velvet soft.

Clio Kill Lash Superproof Mascara, $19.95 (usually $24).

Image: Lila Beauty.

As someone who used to be deeply addicted to lash extensions, I've finally made peace with my short, straight lashes thanks to lash serum, lash lifts and this mascara.

It comes in a few brush styles, but my go-to is the long curling wand, which has a slim, curved brush that grabs every lash for neat, lifted curls. The formula is very waterproof, so expect zero smudging or fallout. You can read my full Clio mascara review here.

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Fwee Lip & Cheek Blurry Pudding Pot, $18.20 (usually $26).

Image: W Cosmetics.

A lot of people find Korean blushes underwhelming because they're not as pigmented, but that's actually a good thing. It means they're super buildable and easy to blend.

I've been obsessed with the Fwee Blurry Pudding Pot, which has completely replaced my $45 Rare Beauty Liquid Blush. As the name suggests, you can use it on your cheeks, lips and even eyelids.

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Rom&nd Better Than Cheek, $13.50 (usually $15).

Image: W Cosmetics.

For a powder blush, this one is unbeatable. It gives a soft, blurred finish that looks like a natural flush.

Go for Blueberry Chip if you have cool undertones, or Pear Chip and Fig Chip if you're warmer or neutral.

Clio Sharp So Simple Waterproof Pencil Liner, $12.40 (usually $18).

Image: Lila Beauty.

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Repeat after me: this is the only eyeliner you'll ever need. It has an ultra-slim 2mm tip that glides on effortlessly, perfect for both your waterline and winged looks.

The formula is ultra-pigmented, waterproof and smudge-proof. 

Fwee 3D Voluming Glossy, $16.80 (usually $24).

Image: W Cosmetics.

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As someone who literally has drawers full of Korean lip products, choosing a favourite is near impossible. But if I had to pick one, it's this gloss from Fwee.

It gives your lips that juicy, glassy shine while keeping them hydrated, with absolutely no stickiness or heaviness. The shades come in either 30 or 70 per cent pigment intensity, so you can choose between a natural tint or a bolder look.

For more tried and tested beauty recommendations, listen to the You Beauty podcast below or watch You Beauty on YouTube.

At Mamamia, we independently curate and write about products we rave about in our group chats and think you should know about too. If you purchase a product we have recommended, we may earn a small commission.

Feature image: Supplied.

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