Antioxidants in Korean Skincare
You've probably already heard that antioxidants are an essential part of a good skincare routine. That's because they not only have the ability to protect us against free radicals, but also have a positive long-term effect on our skin.
Free radicals are damaging molecules caused by factors like UV and pollution that cause concerns like dullness, dark spots, uneven texture and fine lines.
The good news is that antioxidants can help support the skin against oxidative stress over time. Aside from eating antioxidant rich foods, you can also apply them directly to your skin via antioxidant-rich skincare products.
Below, we're sharing some of the most popular antioxidant-related ingredients in Korean skincare (and where to find them!).
The science behind antioxidants
Oxidative stress is one of the major “silent” factors behind tired-looking skin. UV exposure and pollution can increase reactive oxygen species, which can contribute to visible dullness, uneven-looking tone, as well as signs of premature skin ageing over time.
Antioxidants are useful because they help support your skin’s resilience and recovery. However, they work best when your routine is consistent and your sunscreen game is solid.
How to use antioxidants in your routine (AM & PM)
Morning (best for daily “defence”)
Cleanse → antioxidant step (serum/toner/cream) → moisturiser if needed → SPF. Antioxidants pair especially well with sunscreen because UV exposure is one of the biggest triggers for oxidative stress.
Night (best for recovery + long-term results)
Cleanse → hydrating steps → antioxidant-rich serum/cream → treatment step if you use one (for example, a Vitamin A product) → moisturiser/overnight mask.
Antioxidants in Korean Skincare: The ingredient guide
Korean skincare tends to favour antioxidant support that also feels comfortable on the skin. That means formulas that prioritise hydration, barrier support and gentle long-term consistency over "fix it fast" results .
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
Niacinamide is one of Korea's most-loved “all-rounder” ingredients. It is widely used because it supports a stronger-looking barrier, helps skin feel calmer and improves the appearance of uneven tone over time. It also tends to play well with other steps in a routine, which is why it shows up in everything from moisturisers to sleeping masks.
Korean Beauty Products With Niacinamide To Try: Jelly Ko Bubble Tea Steam Cream and Jelly Ko Cherry Blossom Sleeping Mask.
Refill option: If Bubble Tea Steam Cream is your daily staple, the refill pouch is an easy way to top up your jar with less waste.
Centella Asiatica (Cica)
Centella asiatica (also known as "Cica") is another undisputed favourite in Korea. It is best known for helping skin feel soothed and supported, which is why it appears so often in routines for redness, sensitivities, and barrier fatigue. Many people also like centella when their skin feels “stressed,” reactive, or easily triggered.
If you suffer from redness, sensitivities, skin damage or have a skin condition like rosacea, then incorporating Centella asiatica into your routine can help manage your outbreaks.
K-Beauty Products with Centella asiatica to Try: Jelly Ko White Truffle Souffle Serum and Refill.
Best-selling bundle: Skin Cycling Set
If you want an easy way to layer antioxidants without overcomplicating your routine, our Skin Cycling Set is a best-selling bundle designed to help you rotate and layer your serums in a simple, consistent way.
Jelly Ko pick: Skin Cycling Set
Vitamin E
Perhaps one of the most well-known antioxidants, Vitamin E applied topically helps to nourish and support the skin against visible signs of environmental stress. Because it is also naturally soothing, it is often used in formulas designed to keep skin comfortable.
K-Beauty Products with Vitamin E to Try: Jelly Ko Bubble Tea Steam Cream and Refill.
Vitamin A (Retinoids)
A newer entrant to the Korean skincare market is Vitamin A. Koreans have traditionally shied away from retinoids and Vitamin A because of their potential to sensitise and dry out the skin. However, these days retinol is gaining more popularity because of its tried and true reputation for transforming all kinds of skin types.
Regular use of Vitamin A in your skincare routine will net you fewer visible fine lines, more refined pores and a more even skin tone.
K-Beauty Products with Vitamin A To Try: Jelly Ko Be Jelly Overnight Dream Serum and Refill.
Want to learn more about Korean beauty?
If you're building a routine and want to understand how Korean beauty trends evolve (and how to decide what’s worth it), tune into this episode of the Korean Beauty Show podcast hosted by K-Beauty expert Lauren Lee: