Hot Off the Press

1. A Collagen-Rich Korean Sheet Mask: Mediheal Collagen Essential Masks. This sheet mask, from iconic Korean brand, Mediheal, is infused with hydrolyzed collagen and elastin, both of which help improve your skin's texture, make it appear more radiant, and soften dry patches. Apply the mask, leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes, then remove it and gently pat the remaining essence into your skin. As a major bonus, it comes in a pack of 10, so you'll be stocked for ages.

According to one reviewer: "I popped these in the fridge to get them nice and cool for use after my shower and oh, I am so in love with them. They felt wonderful on-- cooling without being minty, moist without sliding off and lots of product to soak into my skin."

If they're still not over canceling that big, meticulously planned-out trip this year, the Soko Glam Staycation Essentials Set will help ease that pain — or at the very least, help your friend glow up at home. The 14-piece set contains $82 worth of products, including a full-size Acwell UV Cut SPF 50+ Waterproof Sun Cream, Mediheal N.M.F. Intensive Hydrating Sheet Mask, and tons of deluxe samples from popular brands like Neogen, Saturday Skin, and Some By Mi. It's an accessible, non-intimidating set for any skin type or level of skin-care expertise, and we have a feeling some products are going to become new staples in their routines.

2020 has been a year focused on improving myself, which involves time and dedication to self-care. And when I think of self-care, images of beautifully packaged products, tropical scented creams, and gold face masks automatically come to mind. Serums, cleansers, lip balms—you name it, I’m obsessed with anything that will make my skin feel luxurious—especially during or after travel—and, in turn, make me feel great inside and out. So naturally, Korean beauty products are what I defer to when looking for new skincare treatments. 

Known for an emphasis on achieving glowy, glass-like skin, K-beauty first went mainstream with its 10-step routine which involved layering serums and lotions. If that sounds overwhelming, though, you can incorporate bits and pieces into your own morning and nighttime routine and still see results. Below, some of the best Korean beauty products to spruce up your skincare routine—and to stash away in your Dopp kit on your next trip.

Mediheal Tea Tree Blemish Control Sheet Masks

Science shows that a beauty routine that incorporates several high-powered ingredients is the best way to combat signs of aging, skin damage, and all those other fun things we deal with on a daily basis. How do you know which beauty ingredients are right for you? Enter Ingredient Breakdown to help pull back the curtain. This week, we're explaining the ever-topical wonders of activated charcoal.

The ingredient: Charcoal

Also known as: Activated charcoal

Quick take: A carbon-based natural ingredient that is found as an active ingredient in a number of skincare, haircare, and body care products to detox and cleanse.

Claims to fame: Primarily known for its ability to act like a gigantic magnet and remove impurities and pollution, charcoal is a stellar ingredient to add into your beauty routine. When charcoal is "activated," it actually increases it surface area, allowing it virtually become a porous sponge that draws out excess gunk from hair, skin, and yes, even teeth. You primarily will find charcoal as an ingredient in skincare products because it's excellent at clearing out blackheads and ridding skin of excess oil.

Where to find it:

Mediheal Charcoal Bubble Cleansing Pads ($11.99)

These exfoliating pads feel like a little luxury with their pre-soaked product pads and finger pockets. A little water activates the charcoal powder for easy exfoliation and deep cleansing. 

Dry Skin

Whether it’s the middle of winter or you’re in Florida in the middle of August, your skin can’t ever seem to get enough moisture. Flaking and chapping is just another day for you–it's a good thing these products are designed to quench parched skin.