How I Used Korean Skin Care to Treat My Eczema (2024)

k beautiful

By Kathleen Hou

How I Used Korean Skin Care to Treat My Eczema (2)

Photo-Illustration: by Stevie Remsberg

Alicia Yoon is a Korean skin-care expert, co-founder of K-beauty emporium Peach and Lily, and a trained aesthetician (somewhere in there, she also attended Harvard Business School). You wouldn’t know from looking at her dewy, poreless skin, but Yoon also has eczema. From personal knowledge and years of experience, Yoon has cultivated a Korean beauty routine that soothes the red, itchy, sensitive skin of an eczema sufferer. In her own words, here’s her routine and why it works.

I’ve had eczema since I was born. So I grew up trying every home remedy imaginable — baking soda baths, bleach baths, oatmeal pastes, and resorting to a bevy of steroids if all else failed in taming my itchy, weepy skin.

When I attended aesthetician school in the ’90s in Korea, my whole approach to eczema changed. It was my skin-care breakthrough moment. Instead of dealing with the symptoms, I took on a holistic and preventative approach to managing it, including a totally different skin-care routine. The results? Eczema can’t be “cured” per se, but those sleepless itchy nights or the constantly inflamed and rashy skin? Instead of being the default reality of life, it became the exception.

Over the years, including after becoming a licensed New York esthetician and working with a lot of clients who also struggle with eczema, I found a three-pronged approach to skin care could profoundly help a lot of other people with eczema-riddled skin.

The three things I like to reinforce at every step of the skin-care routine are to: (1) protect and strengthen the skin barrier, (2) hydrate skin, and (3) decrease inflammation. Those with eczema typically have a leakier skin barrier. Moisture is more easily lost from the skin, and bacteria gets in more easily. Strengthening the skin barrier is the first step — it’s sort of like plugging a hole in a leaky boat.

Getting ample moisture to skin is key, since dehydration makes everything worse, including leading to more inflammation which can beget worse eczema flare-ups. Finally, quelling inflammation is really helpful, since that can help minimize flare-ups. What’s great is that incidentally, this three-pronged approach to minimize flare-ups is also a great way to keep skin from aging prematurely. Win-win! Here is my routine.

Cleansers

My routine consists of double-cleansing in the morning and in the evening. Even though I have dry skin, I double cleanse in the mornings as well but use just the tiniest bit of both cleansers. It’s also because I use night creams that are oil-based so I want to remove these before applying my morning routine. Toxin-filled sebum is produced while sleeping and it’s important to cleanse that off to prevent free-radical damage.

I start with the Shangpree S-energy Cleansing Gel to dissolve everything from stubborn makeup to SPF to pollutants trapped in sebum. Yes, even dry skin has some sebum production that can trap the many impurities in our environment. This super-gentle cleanser melts everything off easily and pampers skin with nourishing ingredients. No tugging or struggling, necessary!

I then follow up with the Atopalm Moisturizing Facial Cleansing Foam. It’s a low pH, so my skin barrier is left intact and removes any residual impurities. This is the No. 1 recommended cleanser by dermatologists in Korea for those struggling with eczema, rosacea, psoriasis, or sensitive skin. Atopalm uses this patented ingredient that actually mimics the molecules of a healthy skin barrier. I use this head to toe and a little goes a long way.

I’ve advised my clients to stick to a gentle double-cleansing method AM and PM and this alone has yielded really profound improvements to skin — it can be one of the easiest and fastest ways to see major improvement. It’s definitely worth trying!

Balancing Toners

Then comes a super hydrating toner to balance my skin’s pH after cleansing (water can be too alkaline). I’ve been using the Be the Skin Botanical Nutrition Power Toner daily for five years now! It’s so hydrating, excludes alcohol, and instead includes soothing ingredients like royal jelly that also helps fight inflammation. I test a lot of products so my skin gets a bit finicky, but this helps reset my skin. I sometimes use a separate essence, but this toner doubles as an essence for me as well. I pat in a few additional layers to drench skin with hydration.

Serums and Treatments

I then apply the Shangpree S-energy Long-Lasting Concentrated Serum with the Olivarrier Fluid Oil mixed together. Both are super silky, so I do a quick face massage when applying (no friction when rubbing means prime-time massage time!) for lymphatic drainage and to stimulate muscles. The serum has a proprietary botanical complex that’s proven to help plump skin and address fine lines and wrinkles. Basically, I see a big difference when I use this. Skin is totally bouncier and super radiant, so I reach for this serum all the time. The fluid oil is pure 100 percent squalane that’s fast-absorbing and non-greasy. Those of you with eczema likely need to supplement skin with lipids to help keep the skin barrier strong. This is a great option to do just that without irritating skin.

If I’m combating dark spots (usually after a long weekend away where I’m out in the sun), I use the Femmue Lumiére Vital C Serum. It’s only 2 percent vitamin C so very gentle and non-drying, and the beautiful formula (smells like a fresh cut bouquet) keeps my dark spots away and refines texture.

Next comes my Volufiline15 eye essence by Eco Your Skin, which totally sinks right into skin for potent results. The volufiline and polylatcic acid helps fill in fine lines so my makeup applies without creasing.

Moisturizing Gel

I seal all this in with the Peach Slices Citrus Honey Aqua Glow. This is a gel that serves as a serum and moisturizer in one. It melts into skin but also protects and hydrates skin. It’s versatile — one layer for more humid days and a few extra layers for dry, wintry months. I love this for travel because of the non-fussy, hygienic tube format. Annatto seed oil helps repair skin, citrus extracts help brighten and boost radiance, honey helps soothes and can be a powerful antibacterial, and ceramides help keep the skin barrier strong. Makeup wears well over this and there’s never any pilling.

Exfoliators

I exfoliate twice a week and for that I use a few different products. My go-to is the Be the Skin Non-stimulus Face Polisher as it gently, gently buffs skin and reveals baby-soft skin. I’ll alternate at times with the Eco Your Skin Lavender Bedside Mask that uses a chemical exfoliant (salicylic acid) but is combined with calming lavender in a skin-comforting light creamy sleeping mask so that skin’s never left dry. The subtle lavender scent lulls me to sleep and I wake up with an instant glow. I’m totally in love with it.

Sheet Masks

I also sheet mask regularly. I love the Peach & Lily dream sheet masks because they’re gentle enough to be used daily but they’re all about results. There’s no alcohol, artificial fragrances and harsh ingredients — I formulated these keeping those with the most sensitive skin (those with eczema included!) in mind, since sheet masks sit on the face for 15 to 30 minutes at a time. They’re packed to the brim with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory ingredients, so results are pretty instant and build over time. I wanted these masks to be formulated with all upside and no downside!

Acne Treatments

I sometimes get hormonal acne and traditional spot treatments can be pretty drying for me, so I pop on a Peach Slices Acne Spot Dots as these help flatten blemishes overnight without the use of drying drugs.

Sun Protection

And in the mornings, SPF always. I’m currently obsessed with the Lagom Sun Gel as it’s truly invisible and weightless.

This routine keeps my skin healthy and strong enough to help keep the itchy, rashy skin at bay.

This article was originally published February 16, 2018. It has been updated throughout.If you buy something through our links,New Yorkmay earn an affiliate commission.

Tags:

  • style
  • beauty
  • eczema
  • skincare
  • skin deep
  • alicia yoon
  • korean beauty
  • korean beauty products
  • peach and lily
  • k beautiful
  • More

Show Leave a Comment

How I Used Korean Skin Care to Treat My Eczema
How I Used Korean Skin Care to Treat My Eczema (2024)

FAQs

What do Asians use for eczema? ›

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is an alternative treatment that's often used for eczema. This alternative medical practice originating from China has existed for thousands of years. It uses a holistic approach that combines herbs, acupuncture, and other therapies to treat various conditions, including eczema.

What is the best skincare routine for eczema? ›

Gentle cleansing with lukewarm water and mild cleansers can avoid stripping the skin's natural oils, which can worsen eczema. Immediately following bathing or showering, apply fragrance-free, hypoallergenic moisturizers to lock in moisture and help strengthen the skin barrier.

What skincare gets rid of eczema? ›

In general, look for moisturizing lotions which contain ingredients that help eczema-prone skin, including:
  • oat or shea butter.
  • aloe.
  • glycerin.
  • hyaluronic acid.
  • petrolatum.
  • vitamin E.
  • humectants.
  • niacinamide.

What is the best Korean face mask for eczema? ›

Best for Eczema-Prone Skin: Torriden Dive In Mask

As with the serum, it contains five molecular sizes of hyaluronic acid, which can in turn reach different layers of the skin. The mask also cools skin on the spot, making it an option to quickly quell irritation, redness, or even sunburned skin.

What organ is connected to eczema? ›

Yes — research suggests that eczema and gut health are linked. The body contains many species of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses. These organisms have different effects on human health. Most of these microbes live inside the gut, particularly the large intestine.

What do Koreans use for their skin? ›

When it comes to skincare, Cho says Korean women use “natural skin brighteners such as rice extracts, vitamin C, and licorice, as well as exfoliators.

Can vitamin C serum clear eczema? ›

Vitamin C can act as an antihistamine. In one study, it helped reduce symptoms of eczema. More studies are needed. While vitamin C and B-complex supplements support skin health, they may not cure eczema alone.

What face serum is good for eczema? ›

La Roche Posay Hyalu B5 Hyaluronic Acid Serum

We shouldn't have to choose between calming the skin and a serum that actually works. So, allow us to introduce you to La Roche Posay's Hyalu B5 Hyaluronic Acid Serum.

What is the best skincare brand for eczema? ›

(Aveeno is an Eczema Association–approved brand that I recommend time and time again for those with sensitive skin and for its reliability.) Its lotion has a high SPF rating of 60 (well above the 30 minimum that she recommends to patients) and includes hydrating prebiotic oat to soothe irritated skin.

What heals eczema the fastest? ›

OTC hydrocortisone is often the first thing doctors recommend to treat mild eczema. You may need different strengths of these steroids, depending on where and how bad your rash is. For example, a doctor may prescribe a more potent one for thick, scaly skin.

How I cured my face eczema? ›

Treatment for eczema on your face is unique to your skin and what caused your flare-up. Treatment could include: Using gentle or sensitive skin moisturizers or lotions. Applying anti-inflammatory medications (topical steroids or topical calcineurin inhibitors) to your skin.

What soap is best for eczema? ›

The best soaps for eczema
  • Cetaphil PRO Gentle Body Wash.
  • CLn BodyWash.
  • Cerave Soothing Body Wash.
  • Skinfix Eczema Soothing Wash.
  • Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Hydrating Cleanser.
  • CLn Facial Cleanser.
  • Skinfix Eczema Soothing Wash.

How common is eczema in Korea? ›

This study included a total of 917,461 participants from 2009 to 2022. The prevalence of atopic dermatitis increased from 6.79% (95% CI 6.66–6.91) in 2009–2011 to 6.89% (95% CI 6.72–7.05) in 2018–2019, then decreased slightly to 5.82% (95% CI 5.60–6.04) in 2022.

What is the best face moisturizer for eczema? ›

Based on recommendations from National Eczema Association and dermatologists we spoke to, you should look for the following ingredients in a cream or lotion for eczema:
  • Oats or colloidal oatmeal.
  • Hydrocortisone.
  • Ceramides.
  • Shea butter.
  • Aloe vera.
  • Glycerin.
  • Hyaluronic acid.
  • Petrolatum.
Jul 17, 2024

What kind of face wash should I use for eczema? ›

CeraVe Hydrating Cream to Foam Cleanser for Normal to Dry Skin- This is the most affordable eczema face and body wash. VMV HYPOALLERGENICS Red Better Deeply Soothing Cleansing Cream-This is the best eczema wash if you have allergies because it is free of formaldehyde, fragrance and allergenic preservatives.

Why are Asians more likely to get eczema? ›

The factors that have been mentioned include increased susceptibility to the irritant effects of repeated washing, increased sensitivity to antigens such as house dust mites, early infant feeding practices, differences in access to medical care, and differences in staphylococcal colonizations predisposing children of ...

What is the best treatment for eczema in the world? ›

Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis) Treatment
  • Relieve the itch by using a moisturizer.
  • Antihistamines may help reduce severe itching.
  • Your health care provider may recommend topical steroids. ...
  • Keep your fingernails cut short. ...
  • Lubricate or moisturize the skin two to three times a day using ointments such as petroleum jelly.
Jun 6, 2024

What is Chinese medicine for itchy skin? ›

A common pairing of aromatic herbal medicines to stop itching are Fang Feng (Radix Saposhnikoviae) and Jing Jie (Herba Schizonepetae). Both are acrid and warm in nature and smell fantastic. They open and disperse, causing a very mild sweat. They can be very useful for hay-fever, and even asthma.

What is the most promising treatment for eczema? ›

Nonsteroid topical.

VTAMA (tapinarof), a new nonsteroid topical cream developed by Dermavant Sciences, is anticipated to be filed with the FDA in Q1 2024. VTAMA 1% has shown positive results from two Phase 3 trials in adults and children down to 2 years of age with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis.

References

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Recommended Articles
Article information

Author: Dean Jakubowski Ret

Last Updated:

Views: 5922

Rating: 5 / 5 (50 voted)

Reviews: 81% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Dean Jakubowski Ret

Birthday: 1996-05-10

Address: Apt. 425 4346 Santiago Islands, Shariside, AK 38830-1874

Phone: +96313309894162

Job: Legacy Sales Designer

Hobby: Baseball, Wood carving, Candle making, Jigsaw puzzles, Lacemaking, Parkour, Drawing

Introduction: My name is Dean Jakubowski Ret, I am a enthusiastic, friendly, homely, handsome, zealous, brainy, elegant person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.