Beyond the K-Beauty: Katherine
Posted by Melon & Starfish on 10th Oct 2020
We’re thrilled to announce that Katherine, from K-beauty blog and @SkinfullofSeoul, will be a new contributor to our blog here at Melon & Starfish.
Katherine is originally from the UK but lived in Seoul for four years, where she became a well-established expert in both the domestic and international K-beauty space. With plenty of skincare knowledge and Korean beauty experience under her belt, we were keen to ask her some questions!
How did you get into K-beauty?
It really started just from moving to Seoul, South Korea. I had never had the opportunity to try (nor had any knowledge about) Korean brands before, but after moving there I was surrounded by K-beauty and so intrigued. Once I started down the rabbit-hole, I was firmly hooked! I originally started my Instagram account just to share my shopping finds, but with so much interest from family, friends, and strangers abroad, I then developed a blog and began writing much more. I had the benefit of being right in the middle of it all in central Seoul, learning more through the brands and industry connections I developed, and experiencing on the ground trends and trade shows. It was fantastic and I’ve maintained my love and involvement in the scene after leaving Seoul in 2018.
What are you favourite K-beauty brands?
It’s literally so hard to answer this because the truth is there are just so many high-quality brands and products from Korea. My all time go-to has to be COSRX, because they have so many fabulous formulas that I’ve had in my routines for years and will never abandon. Shout out to the Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence which is my all-time holy grail product!
How has your skin changed since starting to use Korean skincare?
Oh it’s changed dramatically…I never understood concepts such as the importance of hydration or daily sun protection before learning about Korean skincare. My skin is so much brighter, healthier, and protected. I’m proactive in my approach instead of reactive!
What did you love about living in Seoul?
Seoul has an electric energy to it- I really miss that and the 24-hour buzz of the place. There is ALWAYS something to do or a new neighbourhood to explore. I also really miss the unusual and striking combination of old and new, modernity and history, culture and technology. It’s unique.
What would be a piece of advice you’d share to skincare newbies?
Slow down and don’t get overwhelmed! It can seem like there is just so much information, but try and focus on your skin, your aims, and what you want to see from a skincare routine and go from there. It’s always best to start simple, and only ever try one new product at a time while you get to know your skin.
Katherine will be posting to our blog each month so be sure to subscribe for our newsletter here and stay up to date with her skincare tips and reviews!
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