Read Dr.G ingredients by formulation purpose
The simplest approach is to divide ingredients into 3 groups: cleansing, moisturizing, and skin conditioning. A prominent word in a product name does not explain the entire formula.
For a facial cleanser, begin with the types of cleansing ingredients. Then identify the moisturizing and skin-conditioning ingredients.
For a cream, focus on the arrangement of moisturizing and oil-based ingredients. Treat ingredient-like words in the product name separately from the full list.
“Mildly acidic” describes the product’s pH. It does not guarantee a particular feel or suitability for every person.
Ingredient names, list order, and their place in K-beauty
The ingredients below are examples of common label names. Whether a product you buy contains them should be checked on that product’s full ingredient list.
Cleansing ingredients
Sodium cocoyl isethionate（cleansing ingredient）is used in foaming cleansers. Coco-betaine（cleansing ingredient）also forms part of a cleansing system.
Sodium methyl cocoyl taurate（cleansing ingredient）belongs to the same group. Korean foaming cleansers may combine several cleansing ingredients in one formula.
Moisturizing and skin-conditioning ingredients
Glycerin（moisturizing ingredient）is widely used in water-based cosmetics. It can be incorporated into many formats, including cleansers and creams.
Sodium hyaluronate（moisturizing ingredient）and hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid（moisturizing ingredient）are separate label names. They share a moisturizing purpose but are not the same listed ingredient.
Centella asiatica extract（skin-conditioning ingredient）appears as “병풀추출물” in Korean and 「ツボクサエキス」 in Japanese. The Korean and Japanese names refer to an extract from the same plant. “CICA” is a product term used to refer to this plant.
How to read the label
The Korean term “전성분” corresponds to the Japanese term 「全成分表示」, or “full ingredient list.” “약산성” means mildly acidic, while “수딩” is written as “soothing.”
“Soothing” is an English-derived word used in product names. It is not a regulated cosmetic benefit in Japan.
As a general rule, read the list from higher to lower concentration. Ingredients at 1％ or below may appear in a different order.
Do not stop after the first few names. Reading to the end helps you locate fragrance or an ingredient that previously did not suit you.
Amounts and layering order
Follow each product’s label for how much cleanser and cream to use and how often. Lather cleanser in your hands and rinse without rubbing.
When starting a new product, for example during a change of season, add one at a time. Not starting several at once makes it easier to check how each one feels.
If makeup pills, reconsider the amount of cream. Keep sunscreen in the routine and apply the amount shown on its label.
You can use this sequence today.
- In the evening, remove makeup and sunscreen with a makeup remover.
- Lather the cleanser, wash, and rinse thoroughly.
- Apply cream while the skin still feels slightly moist from toner.
- In the morning, apply sunscreen after the cream.
- Start makeup once the surface has settled.
Product examples for practicing label reading
These 3 products are examples of cleansers and a cream.
| Product name | Size |
|---|---|
| レッドブレミッシュフォーメンジェントルクレンジングフォーム | 150mL |
| 弱酸性レッドブレミッシュクリアスージングフォーム 2個セット | 150mL×2 |
| ビタクリアグルタショット7プラスラッピングブレミッシュクリーム | 50mL |
The 2 foams belong in the cleansing step. The cream follows toner or similar products and comes before sunscreen.
A product name cannot confirm the amount of a particular ingredient. At purchase, read the packaging’s full list from beginning to end.
Precautions
It is common to test a new product on a small area such as the inner arm. Apply a small amount and check that no redness or itching appears.
Stop using the product if redness, swelling, itching, irritation, or any other unusual reaction occurs. Rinse the area and consult a doctor if the reaction continues.
Avoid applying cosmetics to wounds or areas with eczema. Starting only 1 new product at a time also makes possible causes easier to identify.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a mildly acidic cleanser twice daily？
The pH description alone cannot set the right frequency. Follow the product label for how often to use it. Reconsider the amount or frequency if skin feels tight after cleansing.
Are more types of hyaluronic acid always better？
The number of types does not determine how well a product fits your routine. Read names such as sodium hyaluronate and their formulation purposes. Then consider the format and amount used.
Can cream be applied immediately before makeup？
Let the cream settle, then apply sunscreen. Begin makeup after the surface settles. If pilling occurs, reconsider the amount of cream.
Summary
- Group ingredients by cleansing, moisturizing, and skin-conditioning purposes.
- The Korean term “전성분” means the full ingredient list.
- Follow the product label for amounts and frequency.
- Moisturize after cleansing and layer sunscreen before makeup.