New to Korean skincare? This glossary breaks down the K-beauty ingredients you’ll see everywhere — what each one does and which concerns it helps — so you can build a routine that actually works for you. Click any ingredient to shop it.

K-Beauty Ingredient Glossary (A–Z)

AHA & BHA

Chemical exfoliants that smooth texture (AHA) and clear pores (BHA) for brighter, clearer skin.

Azelaic Acid

Calms redness and blemishes while gently brightening — great for acne- and rosacea-prone skin.

Ceramides

Barrier-strengthening lipids that lock in moisture and protect against dryness and sensitivity.

Centella (Cica)

Centella Asiatica, or “Cica”, calms redness and irritation and strengthens the skin barrier — a hero for sensitive skin.

Collagen

Supports firmness, elasticity and bounce for a smooth, plump, glass-skin finish — in creams, serums and viral overnight masks.

Hyaluronic Acid

A hydration magnet that holds up to 1,000x its weight in water for plump, dewy skin.

Niacinamide

Vitamin B3 — brightens, evens tone, refines the look of pores and supports the skin barrier.

PDRN

The viral salmon-DNA ingredient for skin recovery, firmness and glow. Read our full PDRN guide.

Peptides

Signal molecules that support collagen and skin firmness — great for anti-ageing.

Propolis

A nourishing, antioxidant-rich bee ingredient that soothes and adds a healthy glow.

Retinol

A vitamin-A derivative that smooths fine lines and refines texture — introduce it slowly.

Rice

A traditional Korean brightening and hydrating ingredient for soft, luminous, glass-like skin.

Snail Mucin

Snail secretion filtrate deeply hydrates, repairs and plumps — the cornerstone of glass skin.

Vitamin C

An antioxidant that brightens, fades dark spots and boosts radiance — best used in the morning.

Put it into practice

Ready to build your routine? Read our Korean Skincare Routine guide, shop the Glass Skin edit, or discover new favourites every month with a Lengbox K-beauty subscription box. Free UK delivery over £30 and free samples with every order.