Korean skincare favourites explained: snail mucin, PDRN and more

K-beauty is known for gentle, hydrating formulas with ingredients you may not see elsewhere. Here is what the most popular ones do.

Snail mucin

Found in COSRX essences and creams, it hydrates, soothes and helps skin look plump and repaired.

PDRN

A newer ingredient in creams and serums from brands such as Anua and Medicube, used to support skin renewal and a healthy glow.

Niacinamide + tranexamic acid

A popular pairing for brightening and fading the look of dark spots.

Azelaic acid

Helps calm breakouts and fade the marks they leave behind.

Explore our Korean skincare collection. Patch test new products and introduce one at a time.