Do you know the secrets of “Korean Makeup” ?

Did you know that a recent makeup look of Lisa, a member of the world-renowned K-Pop group BLACKPINK, has become a hot topic?

Unlike the makeup she usually wears while performing as an idol in Korea, Lisa showcased a dramatically different appearance at a foreign event with makeup styled according to that country’s techniques.

The makeup Lisa received was quite bold and colorful, a style not commonly seen in Korea and often referred to as the “gyopo makeup” (a term for Korean expatriates). This striking difference was so noticeable that one of her fans humorously commented, “I guess I didn’t love Lisa; what I really loved was Korean makeup artistry.”

Below are photos comparing Korean and Western-style makeup on the same person. As you can see, the makeup alone creates a significantly different impression despite being applied to the same individual.

With the rising popularity of K-Pop, Korean makeup techniques have been receiving a lot of attention. But what exactly is Korean makeup, and how does it differ from the makeup styles of other countries? Let’s explore what makes Korean makeup unique.

 

Why did Korean makeup techniques develop so extensively?

• Koreans place a significant emphasis on appearance and often have more beauty-related insecurities compared to people from other countries. They also prefer not to stand out too much, unlike some Western beauty trends that celebrate bold expressions.
• This preference has led to “corrective makeup” techniques that subtly enhance natural features without being overly dramatic. These techniques aim to minimize flaws and highlight one’s best features harmoniously.
• The rise of K-Pop and K-Dramas has significantly shaped modern Korean makeup trends. The global popularity of these entertainment forms has showcased Korean beauty standards worldwide. Idols and actors often sport flawless, dewy skin with makeup that enhances their natural beauty.

 

Transparent Makeup

Transparent makeup focuses on enhancing the foundation and base while minimizing the use of color. Unlike in Arab and Western regions, where eye and lip makeup is often emphasized, Korean makeup tends to prefer lighter shades over darker ones. This style aims to create a natural, no-makeup look, hence the term “transparent makeup.”

Transformational Makeup

Transformational makeup refers to a customized technique that uses makeup alone to compensate for facial flaws and enhance features, creating an effect similar to plastic surgery. This involves personal color matching, achieving the golden ratio for eyes, nose, and lips, and using contouring and highlighting.

• Personal Color Matching: Determining whether your skin tone is cool or warm and selecting colors that best complement your natural hue.
• Golden Ratio for Eyes, Nose, and Lips: Adjusting the proportions of facial features to create a harmonious and balanced look.
• Contouring and Highlighting: Using makeup to define and enhance the structure of the face, adding depth and dimension.

Water Glow Makeup (Mul-gwang)

Water Glow Makeup, or “Mul-gwang,” is a signature Korean makeup trend that focuses on achieving an ultra-dewy and radiant complexion. This look is characterized by skin that appears to be moist and glowing, almost as if it has been drenched in water. Key elements include:

• Intensive Hydration: Using hydrating products like serums, essences, and creams to deeply moisturize the skin.
• Dewy Foundations and Primers: Applying foundations and primers that have luminous, light-reflecting properties.
• Highlighting: Generously using highlighters on the high points of the face, such as the cheekbones, bridge of the nose, and brow bones, to enhance the glow.
• Facial Mists: Frequently spritzing facial mists throughout the day to maintain the hydrated look.

Key Features of Korean Makeup Techniques

• Natural Skin Expression: Focuses on achieving clear, dewy skin with light foundations and creams that provide a natural glow.
• Glow Makeup: Uses highlighters and illuminating products to add a healthy, radiant sheen to the skin.
• Gradient Lips: Applies a darker color to the center of the lips and blends it outwards for a natural, fuller lip look.
• Natural Eyebrows: Maintains the natural shape of the eyebrows, avoiding overly dark or defined lines for a softer appearance.
• Subtle Eye Makeup: Utilizes natural tones for eyeshadow and thin, precise eyeliner to enhance the eyes without being too dramatic. Excessive use of mascara or eyelash extensions is avoided.
• Dewy Skin: Creates a hydrated and luminous complexion using various moisturizing products and oils.
• Detailed Skincare Routine: Emphasizes a comprehensive skincare regimen before applying makeup, including steps like toner, essence, serum, lotion, and cream to prepare the skin thoroughly.

 

These features highlight how Korean makeup techniques focus on achieving a healthy and natural beauty. This approach, rooted in Korea’s cultural background, has significantly influenced global beauty trends and continues to evolve.