Ingredient Encyclopedia
Korean Skincare Ingredients, Explained
Every Korean skincare routine at Allùre Shop rests on a short list of active ingredients that keep coming back for a reason. Here we explain what each one is: how it works, which skin type it suits, what it pairs with, and which Korean skincare products in our catalog contain it. Read about it before choosing your next serum.
Why this page exists
"Glass skin" is a visible, well-defined skin finish
The Korean beauty term "glass skin" describes an even, well-hydrated surface that reflects light evenly instead of scattering it across dry patches, enlarged pores, or uneven tone. This look comes from a well-supported skin barrier: ingredients that help retain water, calm visible irritation, and support the skin's natural lipid layer over weeks of consistent use, not from a single one-time application.
Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid, Centella Asiatica, and Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate are four active ingredients that contribute strongly to this look and form the basis of this encyclopedia. Each section below explains what the ingredient is, how it works, and which products in our catalog contain it, so you can build a routine around function rather than marketing language.
Antioxidant
13 ingredients
Colloidal Gold
Microscopic gold particles dispersed through a formula, used for antioxidant support, soothing and a brighter-looking complexion.
Azulene
A soothing ingredient from the azulene family, known for antioxidant activity and for helping reduce the appearance of redness.
Chamomile Extract
A flower extract from the daisy family, where the blue-toned compound azulene is one of the most visible signs of its soothing role in cosmetics.
Pomegranate Extract
A fruit extract with a high concentration of polyphenols, especially punicalagins, used for antioxidant support and to promote a brighter-looking tone.
Grape Seed Extract
An extract rich in proanthocyanidins, used for antioxidant support and to help preserve the appearance of skin tone and firmness.
Plant Stem Cell Extract
An extract from plant cell cultures, rich in polyphenols and antioxidant compounds that support the skin's defenses.
Deodeok Root Extract
A Korean extract rich in saponins and polyphenols, used for antioxidant support and soothing the skin.
Green Tea Extract
A leaf extract rich in polyphenols, with antioxidant activity driven largely by EGCG, one of the most studied botanical compounds in skincare.
Glutathione
A tripeptide antioxidant naturally produced in every cell, used topically to support radiance alongside Vitamin C and Niacinamide.
Mushroom Extract Complex
A category of mushroom extracts such as Chaga, Reishi and Sparassis Crispa, valued for polysaccharide-based hydration and antioxidant activity.
Panax Ginseng
The root at the center of traditional Korean medicine for centuries, valued in skincare for the antioxidant activity of ginsenosides and support for skin tone.
Vitamin C
An antioxidant vitamin the body cannot produce on its own and an essential component in the skin's natural collagen-building process.
Vitamin E
A fat-soluble antioxidant that works within the lipid layer and is often combined with vitamin C to extend its effectiveness.
Ready to choose products by active ingredient?
Browse our full catalog of Korean skincare products, or start with our K-beauty guide to build your routine.