Wondering what the hottest K-beauty trend in Korea is right now? It’s buying your skincare from pharmacy! Let’s find out why Korean pharmacies have become a must-visit destination for beauty lovers.
What is the K-Pharmacy Universe series?
K-Pharmacy Universe is a content series that guides anyone unfamiliar with Korean pharmacies and their beauty products. From unique items found only in Korea to insider tips known mostly to locals, we share verified information from a Korean perspective.
In this first series, we introduce the hottest Korean pharmacy skincare products of 2025.
How to book Korean beauty & medical treatments online safely?
Why do Koreans Buy Skin Care at Pharmacies?
- Ingredients That Actually Work: These products have pharmaceutical-grade ingredients, so they're more effective than your average drugstore products.
- Get Expert Recs: Talk to pharmacists who can recommend what actually works for your specific skin issues.
- Great Value: Get results that rival expensive brands without the crazy price tag.
- Safety First: All approved by Korea's health authorities, so you don't have to worry about sketchy ingredients.
Top 5 Skincare Products to Buy at Korean Pharmacies
1. Rejuall (Dr.Reju-All): All-in-One Cream for Regeneration, Soothing, and Hydration
- Price: 35,000–40,000 KRW (20g)
- Key Ingredients: PDRN 1,200 ppm, low-molecular collagen, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, panthenol
The ingredient currently getting a lot of attention in reviews is PDRN, and among the many products featuring it, Rejuall (Dr.Reju-All) has earned a reputation for being the best value for its effects.
Its gel formula penetrates the skin more effectively than a cream and is suitable for all skin types, making it a versatile go-to product. On top of PDRN’s skin-regenerating and soothing benefits, it also provides deep hydration thanks to hyaluronic acid, so you can practically complete your skincare routine with just this one product.
In fact, in Korea, Rejuall (Dr.Reju-All) is often the first product recommended at pharmacies after cosmetic procedures or beauty treatments.
Who Should Try It
- Want to simplify your routine → an all-in-one cream that covers everything
- Struggling with acne scars and dry skin → hydrates while helping skin recover
- Just had a facial or beauty treatment → calms and supports healing
- Have sensitive skin → gentle enough to use on its own
How to Use
- Keep it in the fridge before applying for an extra soothing effect
- Pairs easily with other pharmacy skincare products, so you can mix it into your routine
2. Noscana Gel: The Go-To Solution for Scars in Korea
- Price: 12,000–15,000 KRW (30g)
- Key Ingredients: Heparin sodium, allantoin, dexpanthenol
Noscana Gel is a specialized product designed for scar care. Since Koreans take skincare seriously, it’s no surprise that there’s also a strong focus on keeping scars from forming or lingering.
Noscana Gel is especially effective for red or noticeable scars—from popped pimples, post-surgery marks, to scratches—anywhere you want to prevent a healed wound from leaving a mark.
How to Use
- Apply consistently after stitches are removed following surgery
- Target red acne scars for focused care
- Prevent scars on children’s minor injuries
- Care for delicate skin after tattoo removal
3. Acnon Cream: The Ultimate Solution for Inflamed Acne
- Price: 8,000–10,000 KRW (15g)
- Key Ingredients: Clindamycin (antibiotic), tretinoin
Acnon Cream is a staple for Korean teens and people in their twenties. When acne breakout appears, this is the product they reach for first. Especially popular for overnight use, applying it to inflamed pimples often calms them by the next morning. Among Korean high school students, it’s even known as the “emergency acne cream” because it’s so reliable.
How to Use
- Use only on actively inflamed or pus-filled acne
- Do not use for more than 7 consecutive days (contains antibiotics)
- Not safe during pregnancy!! (contains tretinoin)
4. MelaToning: The Hidden Hero for Hyperpigmentation
- Price: 15,000–18,000 KRW (30g)
- Key Ingredients: Hydroquinone, tretinoin, dexamethasone
Korea’s summer sun is intense, making umbrellas and sunscreen essential—but for existing dark spots and freckles, Melatoning is the go-to for tackling hyperpigmentation.
This product is especially popular among Korean women in their 30s and 40s, known for effectively fading pigmentation, dark spots, and freckles. It’s commonly used after summer, when spots have darkened, to gradually even out the skin tone.
How to Use
- Avoid daytime use, as it makes the skin more sensitive to sunlight (use only at night)
- Always pair with sunscreen during the day
- With continued use, you’ll notice a gradual brightening of the skin
5. D-Panthenol: A Hidden Korean Skincare Staple
- Price: 8,000–12,000 KRW (50g)
- Key Ingredient: Dexpanthenol (Provitamin B5)
Koreans are known for their focus on achieving naturally clear and radiant skin. But true radiance starts with a healthy skin foundation, which is why base skincare is so important.
This is where D-Panthenol comes in. It soothes inflammation, supports collagen production, and strengthens the skin’s barrier, essentially acting as “skincare groundwork” for healthy, glowing skin.
It’s especially helpful during seasonal changes, calming sensitive skin caused by shifts in temperature and humidity.
The products I’ve introduced so far are ones I’ve personally used and recommended! When you visit Korea, don’t just stop by Olive Young or Daiso, make sure to check out a pharmacy too. Consulting a pharmacist about your skin concerns and trying these products is a great way to experience the secrets of Korean beauty firsthand.
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