Introduction
Korean make-up aims to make the skin itself glow rather than cover it: thin layers, a dewy finish and a natural tone. That is why Korean make-up products often come with skincare benefits, like cushions and BB creams with sun protection or concealers with a moist texture. In this guide we explain the steps of glass-skin make-up and the Korean make-up products in K-LAB's stock.
1. What makes Korean make-up different?
- Light, buildable textures: a natural look built in thin layers rather than heavy coverage in one go.
- A dewy finish: light-reflecting rather than matte, suited to the glass-skin look.
- Skincare and make-up in one: cushions and BB creams with sun protection.
- Practical formats: cushions with refills, stick concealers and stick highlighters you can carry in your bag and touch up during the day.
2. Glass-skin make-up step by step
- Prep with skincare: build a hydrated base with moisturiser and sunscreen; half of glass-skin make-up is skincare. See the Glass Skin Guide for details.
- Cushion or BB cream: press on a thin layer with the puff, adding a second layer only where needed.
- Stick concealer: dab it under the eyes and on red spots.
- Highlighter: on the cheekbones, the bridge of the nose and above the lip. This is the step that gives the glass effect.
- Blusher: a little shimmering blusher on the upper cheeks.
- Finish: a small amount of powder on the T-zone only; the rest of the face should stay luminous.
3. Cushion or BB cream?
A cushion carries liquid foundation in a sponge pad; you build coverage in thin layers and get a luminous finish. A BB cream is lighter; it evens skin tone and adds sun protection, and suits everyday wear when you do not want heavy coverage. Oily skin usually does better with a BB cream and powder on the T-zone; dry and normal skin with a cushion.
4. Choosing a shade: 21 or 23?
In Korean shade numbering, 21 is light beige and 23 is natural beige. Light skin usually suits 21, while wheat and medium skin tones usually suit 23. If you are unsure, swatch both shades side by side along your jaw and check in daylight. For a detailed comparison, read Cushion 21 or 23?
5. Korean make-up at K-LAB
- Natinda Aura Perfect Cover Cushion (#21 Vanilla, #23 Beige): an SPF 50+ PA++++ high-coverage cushion with a refill.
- Natinda Perfect Concealer Stick (#21, #23): a stick concealer for under the eyes and the face.
- Natinda Multi-Stick Highlighter: a glow stick for the glass effect.
- Rivecowe Shine Blusher: a shimmering blusher in three shades.
- Rivecowe BB Cream SPF 43: a hydrating BB cream.
- Rivecowe Sebum Control CC Pact: a pressed powder for the T-zone.
Related K-LAB products
Frequently asked questions
Is the Korean make-up genuine?
The Natinda and Rivecowe make-up sold at K-LAB comes from the brands' official distributor stock in Turkey, with an invoice, and is genuine.
Which products do I need for glass-skin make-up?
A thin cushion or BB cream, a stick concealer and a highlighter are enough. A shimmering blusher and a little powder on the T-zone complete the look.
Can I use a cushion on oily skin?
Yes. Apply a thin layer and set the T-zone with pressed powder; if it gets shiny during the day, touch up with powder.
What does "cushion with refill" mean?
A second fill comes in the box; when the first runs out you click in the new one without throwing away the compact.
Can sensitive skin use Korean make-up?
The formulas are usually light, but we recommend trying each new product on your jawline first. The full ingredient list is printed on the packaging.