I’ve said this before and I’m going to say it again. BOJ is not popular in Korea. And all of those other brands that you see like Peach Lily, Glow Recipe, they’re not even sold in Korea.
For today’s video, I’m going to do another comparison on the products that are popular in the US versus in Korea. And I’m also going to tell you which ones of these two I think are actually worth your money.
Round 1: Sunscreen
First, let’s start off with SPF. In the US and internationally, you guys know the BOJ has a huge following. While in Korea, these two brands have a much bigger following locally.
BOJ Relief Sun (Original & Aqua-Fresh Rice + B5) These are the international stars. Both contain rice extracts and probiotics for brightening, refreshing hydration, and skin barrier support. They feel dreamy, creamy, lightweight, and refreshing. They are excellent chemical SPFs and great entry-level K-beauty sunscreens for the price.
However, in Korea, BOJ is not that well known locally. They are mainly recognized for being popular overseas.
Read More: I Rebuilt My Face in Korea: The $7,000 Seoul Glow Up
Dr. G Green Mild Up Sun+ This is one of the top-ranked physical SPFs at Olive Young. It uses zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Many Koreans love it because it is very gentle and does not sting the eyes. It feels a bit stiff and pasty, which is typical for physical sunscreens.
Taiba Essence Waterfall Sunscreen Taiba SPFs have a strong hold in Korea. The Essence Waterfall is a chemical SPF that feels silky, creamy, and very hydrating. It has a more premium feel and a cleaner finish with a subtle glazed glow. The purple tone-up version is also very popular for naturally brightening the yellowish undertone common in Korean skin.
Verdict for Sunscreen I give this round to BOJ. The formulation and pricing are excellent. They are cost-effective and actually work well. If you come to Korea, check BOJ first before moving to the others.
Round 2: Wrapping Masks
The wrapping mask trend is going viral in the US with Medicube at the forefront, while Mediheal is taking over in Korea.
Medicube Wrapping Mask I have expressed my opinion on this before and it is not good. It smelled bad when peeled off, felt irritating, did not peel off in one piece, and the glow disappeared quickly after removal. The value did not match the price for me.
Mediheal Wrapping Mask This one is getting more recognition in Korea. It was fun to use, left a nice glow, and did not feel too irritating. It contains low molecular collagen and lactobacillus (fermented ingredients). I had a much better experience with this one.
Verdict for Wrapping Masks Mediheal wins this round. I felt like my money was well spent and I actually enjoyed using it.
Round 3: PDRN Products
PDRN is still going strong both domestically and internationally.
Dr. Rju PDRN Cream This brand was founded by pharmacists in Korea and is sold in pharmacies. The PDRN cream contains 1,200 ppm PDRN (claimed to be the optimal level). It has a lightweight gel-cream texture with niacinamide and hyaluronic acid. It moisturizes, protects, and creates a nice barrier without feeling heavy.
Reon Turnover Ampoule Reon is a long-established Korean brand with huge heritage, especially among the mature generation. This ampoule contains 0.5% patented CPDRN. The texture is viscous and thick, almost like sheet mask essence. It is very hydrating and moisturizing but requires careful spreading as it can clump.
Verdict for PDRN This round is harder because the textures are very different. Dr. Rju is a lightweight gel cream, while Reon is a thick viscous ampoule. Choose based on your preference: lighter gel cream → Dr. Rju; thick hydrating ampoule → Reon.
Round 4: Barrier Creams
Dr. Althea 345 Cream This cream is gaining recognition. The name 345 refers to the number of ingredients for blemish care (3), nourishing care (4), and soothing care (5). It contains niacinamide, panthenol, hyaluronic acid, centella, houttuynia cordata, and ceramide. The texture is lightweight gel-cream, making it versatile for many skin types.
Aestura Atbarrier 365 Cream This is a mega hit and steady classic seller in Korea. It uses long-chain ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids to mimic the skin’s natural lipid barrier. It contains Derma On technology capsules that deliver these ingredients effectively. The texture is buttery and thicker. It is excellent for repairing damaged, red, or dry skin after treatments.
Verdict for Barrier Creams This was really hard because I like both. Dr. Althea is lighter and more versatile. Aestura Atbarrier 365 is richer and very effective for barrier repair. Because I have used Aestura for a much longer time and see consistent results, I have to go with Aestura Atbarrier 365. But Dr. Althea is also really good.
