Over the past few years, I’ve tried a mix of affordable and luxury K-beauty products, from simple cleansers under €10 to essences that felt like liquid silk in fancy glass bottles. And honestly? I’ve learned that price doesn’t always equal performance.
In this post, I’m sharing my honest experience comparing budget-friendly Korean skincare to high-end picks. Whether you’re just starting out or thinking of upgrading your routine, here’s what’s truly worth it and where you can totally save.
1. Cleansers – Affordable Always Wins Here
When it comes to cleansers, I don’t think you need to spend a lot. I’ve used both COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser and Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Foam, and while Sulwhasoo feels more luxurious, COSRX does the job just as well – if not better – for oily or combo skin.
– Budget cleansers like Etude House Soon Jung pH 6.5 Whip Cleanser are gentle and effective
– Luxury options focus more on texture and scent, not necessarily cleansing power
💬 Honestly? I always go back to my affordable ones, they’re simple, reliable, and non-stripping.
2. Toners – Budget Is Great, But Luxury Feels Extra Nourishing
Toners are a bit of a middle ground. I’m From Rice Toner (luxury side) gave me that deep, milky hydration I couldn’t find in lighter formulas. But honestly, Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Toner (affordable) is also amazing, its hydrating, plumping, and under €15.
– If you want a splash of glow and richness, high-end toners deliver
– But for daily hydration, affordable brands like Round Lab and Isntree are more than enough
💬 I like using my affordable toner in the morning, and my richer one at night when my skin needs extra love.
3. Essences – Here’s Where Luxury Stands Out
I wasn’t impressed by most cheap essences, they often felt like just water. But when I tried Missha Time Revolution First Treatment Essence and Sulwhasoo First Care Activating Serum, I finally understood the hype.
– High-end essences are usually fermented, deeply hydrating, and feel richer on the skin
– Affordable ones like Secret Key Starting Treatment Essence are nice, but not as effective for glow
💬 If you want that “glass skin” vibe, this is one step where I think luxury is worth the splurge.
4. Serums – Ingredients Over Price, Always
You don’t need to spend €40+ for a good serum. The Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum (Propolis + Niacinamide) is under €15 and gave me more results than a €50 ampoule I tried once.
– Look for actives: niacinamide, centella, snail mucin, not brand hype
– Some By Mi, Axis-Y, and Beauty of Joseon are amazing value for acne-prone or uneven skin
💬 Now I always check the ingredient list first — not the price tag.
5. Moisturizers – Affordable = Less Fragrance, Better Results
Unless you’re going for advanced anti-aging, moisturizers don’t need to be luxury.
Etude House Soon Jung 2x Barrier Intensive Cream is one of my all-time favorites, simple, non-irritating, and under €20.
On the luxury side, I tried Dr. Jart+ Ceramidin Cream and Hera Cell Essence Cream. They feel richer, but honestly? My skin prefers the lighter, cleaner formulas.
💬 I’d rather save money here and invest in a serum or essence.
6. Sunscreens – Budget is Just as Good (If Not Better)
Korean sunscreens are honestly some of the best in the world and you don’t need to go high-end.
I love Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun and Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel both are under €20 and feel amazing.
Luxury sunscreens like Dr. G Brightening Up Sun+ or Thank You Farmer Sun Project Light Sun Essence feel elegant, but aren’t dramatically better.
💬 If it doesn’t sting and doesn’t leave a white cast, I’m happy and most affordable K-beauty sunscreens pass the test.
Final Thoughts:
Mixing affordable and luxury K-beauty products works best for me. I save on cleansers, toners, and moisturizers, and invest a little more in essences or treatments where I really feel the difference.
You don’t need to spend a fortune to get amazing results.
Just find what works for your skin, not your wallet. And remember, even a €10 product can be a holy grail 💛
✨ Bonus Tip:
Start with affordable basics from brands like COSRX, Beauty of Joseon, Isntree, and Etude House, then explore higher-end options once you know what your skin loves.