Is It Really Korean? A Guide To East Asian Makeup

The descriptor of Korean has been assigned to many east asian beauty trends online, and while that's usually an incorrect label we understand the Korea-mania when it comes to beauty. Korean skin care has been dominating the beauty industry for years now. It promises clearer, dewy skin and can be affordable since it's such a large market. With clearer skin comes the freedom to explore more styles since the base is less important. That's why we've put together this guide to three makeup styles that have fallen under the category of “Korean”.

Douyin

Douyin originated in China and has since been riffed on by K-beauty. The look uses lots of glitter, and dewy products. 

To achieve the look you need a sheer foundation. This is why the look is so popular with Korean skin care users, because it's easier to achieve with flawless skin. The lip doesn't have the same importance in the look, it's just important to keep it dewy and plump.

The eyes need to pop for this look, so lots of glitter is required. The colors you'll see most often are silvers, purples, and blues. The final important part of this look is the lashes, you're looking for long doll-like lashes that frame the face.

Igari

Igari originated in Japan and like Douyin has been referenced in K-beauty. The look is blushy and natural. For this look the prep work is vital, your skin must be clean and moisturized, you'll only be using enough foundation to even your skin tone not to cover blemishes.

Most of the other makeup will also remain soft and natural, the eyes, the mouth, the brows. Where you're really going all out is the blush. This look isn't nicknamed “drunk blush makeup” for nothing. The blush should be applied in buildable amounts across the high points of your cheeks and the bridge of your nose.

Ulzzang

This final look does originate in Korea, this look is defined by matte skin, lighter foundation, and accentuated eyes. For the base, you'll need a sheer matte foundation, and it should be a little lighter than what you normally wear. The lips should be done with a bright lip stain, focusing on the center of the lips.

The eyes are what really makes the look, bold eyeliner that extends outwards. It doesn't matter so much if it suits your face shape, that's not the goal of the look. Finally brighten under eyes, not to cover dark circles but to highlight.