Makeup artist Liz Hyun’s Korean beauty favourites
image via @liz_hyun/instagram
as told to lara daly
Don’t go to the K-beauty store without her.
Korean beauty has well and truly become mainstream as far as skincare is concerned. Most women I know have Biodance sheet masks in the fridge, Beauty of Joseon sunscreen in their bag, or at least a Cosrx snail serum banging around in their bathroom.
But I think too many of us are sleeping on Korean makeup. Admittedly, the makeup aisle at a W Cosmetics can feel intimidating, since unlike at Mecca or Sephora, you’re mostly left to figure it out on your own. We need advice, and who better to guide us than makeup artist Liz Hyun.
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“Being Korean myself, I’ve always been exposed to Korean beauty and skincare. It was naturally part of my upbringing,” she says. According to Liz, the combination of innovation, performance and accessibility is what sets K-beauty apart.
“Korean brands are constantly experimenting with textures, ingredients and formulations, and they’re ahead of the curve when it comes to creating products that feel genuinely new and exciting.”
Jelly and pudding-like skincare products are great examples. “You’ll often find these in the moisturiser category, with a bouncy, gel-like texture and encapsulated skincare beads within the formula. There’s a real emphasis on the texture, application and overall experience of using the product,” she says.
The low price points are another huge advantage. “You can find highly effective, beautifully formulated products that aren’t overly expensive… As a makeup artist, I’m particularly drawn to products that perform under pressure, and Korean beauty consistently delivers.”
While Liz is based in New Zealand, she visits Seoul often and stocks up on her favourite cosmetics while she’s there. “I always come back with eyeliners and mascaras because the formulas are incredibly long-wearing. They really don’t budge, which is important when I’m working on set or backstage, and need makeup to stay intact for hours.”
Also on her shopping list are lip products such as glosses, stains and liners. As well as highlighters and eyeshadow palettes. “There’s such a huge variety of textures and finishes to choose from, and I find Korean brands are particularly good at creating beautiful, wearable colour,” she says.
While complexion products from Korean brands (like concealer and foundation) still have a way to go in terms of shade diversity, Liz says she’s excited to explore once they become more established in Western markets and expand their offering.
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The most-used Korean makeup products in Liz’s kit
If you’re completely new to Korean makeup, Liz suggests starting with a lip product. “Romand is a great place to start, particularly the Juicy Lasting Tint range – it’s a great way to experience the Korean approach to lip colour, where the finish can be sheer and juicy, softly blurred or more saturated.”
Her other current staples include the Lilybyred Starry Eyes Eyeliner and the Clio Superproof Brush Liner. “Both are fantastic when I need precise definition, particularly for fashion and editorial work where the makeup needs to last.”
She also rates the Too Cool for School Artclass by Rodin Loose Setting Powder for removing excess shine, without making the skin look heavy or flat.
“Another favourite is the Dasique Fruity Lip Jam. I love having products like this in my kit because they add a beautiful wash of colour and freshness to the lips, while allowing me to customise the intensity.”
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Liz’s K-beauty store shopping list
Best brow product: Peripera Speedy Skinny Brow Pencils.
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Best blush: Laka Love Silk Blush.
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Best lip gloss: Entropy Charm Tint Glossy Gel.
Get it here.
Best lip stain: Muzigae Mansion Objet Stain Tint.
Get it here.
Best cushion foundation: Tirtir Mask Fit Red Cushion.
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Best eyeshadows: Hera Beauty Quad Eye Color Shadow.
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Best mascara: Clio Kill Lash Superproof Mascara.
Get it here.
For more on Korean makeup, try this.
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