How to read a Korean skincare label
Good to know
Manufacture dates instead of expiry dates, PAO symbols, and the words that tell you what a product actually is.
A Korean box tells you slightly different things from a Western one, and the differences catch people out — particularly the dates.
Dates: manufacture, not expiry
Korean cosmetics usually print a manufacture date (제조), sometimes alongside a use-by (까지). An unopened product is generally good for around three years from manufacture. If you only see one date and it looks alarmingly like it is in the past, it is probably the day it was made.
The open-jar symbol
A small jar icon marked 12M or 6M is the period after opening. That clock starts when you first break the seal, not when it was made.
Product words, in order of use
- Toner — watery, goes on first, preps rather than treats
- Essence — slightly thicker, hydration
- Serum / Ampoule — the concentrated step; ampoule usually means stronger
- Emulsion / Lotion — light moisturiser
- Cream — seals everything in
You do not need all five. Cleanser, one treatment step, moisturiser and sunscreen is a complete routine.
Ingredient lists
Korean lists follow the same rule as everywhere else: descending order by amount, until you get below one per cent, after which the order means nothing. If an advertised hero ingredient sits at the very bottom of the list, it is there for the label, not for your skin.
If you want the manufacture date on a specific item before ordering, ask us and we will read it off the box.