Kim Soo-hyun, one of South Korea’s top actors, has mastered the art of balancing a hectic K-drama schedule while maintaining his well-being. Known for his exceptional performances in dramas like Queen of Tears, It’s Okay to Not Be Okay and My Love from the Star, Soo-hyun’s journey to stardom is not just about acting talent — it’s also about his ability to handle pressure and prioritize self-care amid his demanding projects.
Despite his packed schedule with numerous K-drama projects, Kim Soo-hyun continues to radiate that timeless, flawless complexion we all admire.
His secret? Understanding his skin type and using the right ingredients to cater to his skin’s needs — a principle that can work wonders for all of us, especially those of us living in Southeast Asia where skin concerns can vary from oily to sensitive.
Finding the right ingredients for your skin type
In the world of skincare, the golden rule is to know your skin type and choose products that address its unique needs. Southeast Asian skin, in particular, tends to age gracefully due to its thicker dermis packed with collagen and elastin, but it’s also prone to oiliness, acne, hyperpigmentation, and sensitivity — factors influenced by genetics and the tropical climate.
Whether you have oily, dry, combination, or sensitive skin, it’s essential to use ingredients that enhance skin health and give you that radiant, Soo-hyun-like glow.
Keeping the shine in check
Living in a hot, humid climate, oily skin is incredibly common among Southeast Asians. If you have this skin type, ingredients like Niacinamide are your best friends. Niacinamide helps regulate excess sebum production, keeping your skin from looking too shiny throughout the day.
Salicylic acid is another powerhouse ingredient — it works by gently exfoliating dead skin cells, unclogging pores, and controlling sebum production, making it a must-have in your skincare routine.
Hydration is key
The tropical sun can zap the moisture out of your skin, leading to dryness. For dry skin types, hydration is the name of the game.
Hyaluronic acid is a superstar in this category. Known for holding up to 1,000 times its weight in water, it keeps your skin plump and hydrated. Ceramides are also excellent for locking in moisture and repairing your skin barrier, ensuring that your skin stays soft and supple.
The best of both worlds
Combination skin — characterized by an oily T-zone and dry patches around the cheeks and jawline — requires a balance of moisture and oil control. Squalane, a plant-based lipid, is perfect for this skin type as it boosts hydration while rebalancing your skin.
Another essential ingredient is Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that stimulates collagen production, brightens the skin, and enhances its overall tone and texture.
Soothe and protect
Sensitive skin tends to react more intensely to environmental factors and harsh products. If this sounds like your skin type, look for ingredients like Centella Asiatica, which helps hydrate and strengthen the skin barrier while reducing redness and inflammation. Bisabolol, derived from chamomile, is another gentle ingredient that calms and soothes sensitive skin, ensuring it remains healthy and irritation-free.
This is where Y.O.U Beauty steps in. With an extensive range of skincare and cosmetic products designed for various skin types and concerns, Y.O.U Beauty has something for everyone. Whether you’re dealing with acne, dark spots, or signs of aging, their products are formulated with cutting-edge research and carefully selected ingredients to ensure optimal results.
For instance, their Radiance Up! series is perfect for all skin types, focusing on skin barrier repair and brightening dark spots, while Radiance Glow caters to combination and sensitive skin, addressing dullness and uneven skin tone. The Golden Age series, with its vegan alternative bakuchiol, offers anti-aging benefits without irritating sensitive skin. For acne-prone individuals, the AcnePlus series is gentle yet effective in reducing breakouts. Lastly, their Sunbrella sunscreen provides the ultimate sun protection — essential in any skincare routine.
Whether you’re chasing the glass-like skin of your favorite K-drama stars or simply seeking a routine that enhances your natural beauty, the right ingredients tailored to your skin’s needs are key to achieving glowing, healthy skin — just like Kim Soo-hyun.