by ARIANNA CARAMAT
The “time is crucial” mentality has become a lifestyle adopted by many Americans. Between work, the kids’ volleyball practice, and rushing back home to make dinner (out of breath yet?), it feels like there’s hardly any time for upkeep. Well, have no fear, because our saviors are here! Meet Christine Chang and Sarah Lee, the co-founders of Glow Recipe, as they share their beauty advice for any on-the-go woman.
Applying their 10 years worth of extensive research from both Korean and American beauty markets, these highly qualified ladies manifested a company dedicated to bringing nothing but the best Korean products to the American market. “The theme of Glow Recipe really speaks to what we’re about. We want to give the right ingredients and the right tools for the American women–further more the women around the world–on how to get glowing skin,” says Lee.
So what exactly is Glow Recipe, you ask? The official website points out that their goal is “to create a lovingly curated destination site that makes natural, harsh-free Korean beauty products and the latest skin care trends from the Far East accessible to beauty-forward women around the world.”
Their bi-cultural beauty background has been key in their success. Taking their knowledge of both worlds, they’ve personally curated straight-forward multifunctional Korean products, and given us access to the best of the best. No matter which side of the hemisphere, we can all agree that healthy luminous skin is what we strive for, and we’re grateful Glow Recipe is here to help bring it to us.
Here are their suggested Korean trends to jump-start any woman’s skincare routine onto the right path to brilliant glowing skin.
Dry Complexion:
SHARA SHARA: Hinoki Spa Toner
“If we had to pick just one [trend], we would say
nourishing toners (sometimes called “treatment toners” or “essence toners”). They’re basically toners that have moved beyond the old school astringent wipe-off toners that were once an extention of your cleanser. [Korean] toners often have more body, they’re almost like a pre-serum, because they’re loaded up with anti-aging and hydrating ingredients. You can kick start your regiment this way. It’s not just balancing, it’s beyond.”
Oily or Acne-prone Complexions:
LEE JI HAM: Tea Tree 90 Essence
“We think that
essences are really suitable for the Asian Americans with this skin type. First of all, not only is this a trend, but we know that a lot of the essences that are being launched have a very light texture (as opposed to the heavy, oily body of serums). These are lightweight, but also as effective as serums. Perfect for people who are afraid of the shine or grease, but still want that effective penetration of all the good stuff for the skin.”
Combination Complexions:
WHAMISA: Organic Flowers Olive Leaf Mist
“We’ve talked to dermatologist partners in Korea about combination skin, and it’s basically an imbalance. This often happens because certain parts of your skin are actually starved from moisture and it’s over-producing oil, especially on your forehead and nose region. We thought a great product for combination skin would be
mists. It’s also a form of toner, but the nourishment and vitamin-packed formulations are packed in a convenient spray bottle. They’re often called “desk mists” in Korea, because every woman has one on her desk in the office or at school. They’re non-stripping [of natural oils], and they really help infuse the right amount of hydration to skin so your skin looks more balanced overall.”
On the Go Essential:
DR. ORACLE: The Snow Queen Enzyme Powder Wash
“There are some products we love that we have on our site. The first is a powder cleanser, which is a very versatile cleanser where you can use it as a daily foam cleanser as well as an exfoliator, once or twice a week. It’s travel friendly, it’s a powder form so you can always carry it around. It’s great, perfect for travel. You can always make sure your face is clean.”
Their Must-Have
SHARA SHARA: Honey Bomb All-in-one Ampoule
“A product called
Honey Balm is basically a toner, moisturizer, and serum all in one. What we love about it is the very lightweight texture, so you can use it right after cleansing your face, and still feel this lasting nourishment and hydration”
