Korean skincare comes with its own language, full of terms that describe skin conditions, glow, and techniques. Here, we've gathered common terms to help you navigate the world of K-beauty with confidence.

Glow and finish

Chok chok – Dewy, deeply hydrated skin with a natural glow
Glass skin – Clear, smooth and intensely hydrated skin with a mirror-like finish
Gwang – A healthy, natural glow from healthy skin
Honey skin – Soft, plump skin with a warm, glossy glow
Water skin – Plump skin with extreme hydration and a “wet” glow

Products

AC (Acne Care) – Products adapted for acne-prone skin
Ampoule – Extra concentrated serum for intense results
BB Cream – Colored cream with skin-care properties and often SPF
CC/CCC Cream – Smoothing cream with more coverage than BB Cream
Cushion compact – Makeup product in a box with a built-in applicator
Emulsion – Light, liquid moisturizer that absorbs quickly
Essence – Moisturizing product between toner and serum
Hydrogel – Gel-based material used in masks with a cooling effect
Lotion – Light moisturizer, thicker than emulsion but thinner than cream
Pack – Collective name for masks that are rinsed off
Pad – Moistened cotton pads for cleansing or exfoliation
Patch – Hydrocolloid patch for pimples
Sheet mask – Disposable mask soaked in essence
Toner – Prepares the skin after cleansing
Treatment – ​​Treatment product tailored to specific needs

Techniques & expressions

7 Skin Method – Applying toner in multiple layers for maximum hydration
Brightening – Evens out skin tone and gives radiance (not bleaching)
Double cleanse – Double cleansing with oil + water-based cleansing
Physical sunscreen – Mineral-based protection that reflects UV rays
Chemical sunscreen – Absorbs and neutralizes UV radiation
PA system – Measures protection against UVA rays
Tok tok (tapping) – Patting application technique for less friction