7 K-Beauty Trends to Know for Summer 2025

K-beauty continues to redefine global skincare and makeup, merging science with luxury. This summer, Korean beauty trends are all about hybrid textures, next-level technology, and radiant, healthy skin. Whether you’re a skincare minimalist or new product junkee, here are the top seven K-beauty trends that are making waves in Summer 2025. —Alexandra Aulicino

Korean Sunscreen

Forget chalky SPF—Korean sunscreens are leading the way with elegant formulations that combine UV protection with skin-loving ingredients. These SPFs feature broad-spectrum filters, featherlight hydration, and a silky, non-comedogenic finish with zero white cast.

One product dominating TikTok right now? Beauty of Joseon Daily Relief Sunscreen SPF 40. It’s being hailed as a game-changer for sensitive skin thanks to its soothing formula packed with rice and green tea extracts. This isn’t just sun protection—it’s skincare with a side of science.

Milky Toners

Already trending in North America through brands like Rhode, milky toners are now a K-beauty staple. These formulas feel soft and soothing, with hydrating ingredients like rice extract, centella asiatica, and other anti-inflammatory botanicals.

Milky toners not only calm irritated skin but also prep it for serums and creams, leaving that signature glass-skin finish. Try the cult-favorite I’m from Rice Toner for a brightening and balancing boost.

Spicules

Spicules—microscopic needles from marine sponges—aren’t new, but they’ve surged in popularity in Korean skin clinics and at-home treatments. Acting like a form of natural microneedling, they gently exfoliate while stimulating collagen production and enhancing ingredient penetration.

If you’re looking to supercharge your skincare, Sungboon Editor Deep Collagen Retinol Power Boosting Capsule Cream is a standout. It delivers intense anti-aging benefits with visible skin renewal.

3-D Masking

Say goodbye to basic sheet masks. This summer’s innovation is all about 3D gel masks that hug your face like a second skin. These masks conform to hard-to-reach areas—like the jawline and chin—while delivering lifting, firming, and hydrating benefits.

Our pick: Probioderm 3D Lifting Full Face Tension Gel Mask, perfect for a spa-like treatment that leaves your skin plump, tight, and glowing.

Cushion Compacts

Cushion foundations are evolving. The latest generation is a skincare-makeup hybrid that offers more than just flawless coverage. These compacts provide SPF, hydration, and anti-aging ingredients in a single tap.

TIRTIR Mask Fit Red Cushion Foundation is trending for its breathable, natural-looking coverage and skin-enhancing benefits—perfect for the no-makeup makeup look.

PDRN Treatments

Once an exclusive clinic treatment, PDRN (polydeoxyribonucleotide)—a DNA-derived ingredient from salmon—is now a viral beauty obsession. PDRN is known to hydrate, firm, and brighten the skin, making it a go-to for anti-aging.

First seen on The Kardashians when Kim tried it in Korea, PDRN injections are now available in North America. For at-home care, try VT PDRN Essence to get the glow without the needle.

Hybrid Blushes and Lip Tints

K-beauty is all about multi-tasking formulas, and this season’s hybrid blushes and lip tints offer buildable color in innovative textures—think mousse, jelly, or water-like tints. These products blur seamlessly into the skin for a soft, diffused finish.

For a just-bitten lip or a flushed cheek ,Etude House Dear Darling Water Tint  is a must-have. It’s effortless, lightweight, and leaves you with that perfect, barely-there summer glow.