Korean vs. Thai Skincare: Which is Better for Filipina Skin?

As someone with oily skin in the Philippines, I’ve constantly searched for products to manage oil, acne, and hyperpigmentation. Like many others, I got swept into the hype around both Korean and Thai skincare. Over time, I’ve tried various products and want to share my experience to help fellow Filipinos find what works best for our tropical climate and common skin concerns.

Photo by BRANDS

Oil Control products in Humid Conditions

The humidity can be brutal, especially for someone like me with oily skin. I’ve tried these products to see which one helps me manage oil better throughout the day.

What I love about Korean skincare routines is that it emphasizes balance, and I found this approach really helpful. I began with the COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser—gentle yet effective at cleaning my skin without over-drying. After cleansing, I applied Innisfree’s Green Tea Seed Serum, a lightweight formula that hydrates without leaving my skin greasy. The double-cleansing method in Korean skincare has helped control my oiliness, especially on unbearably humid days, which I liked.

When I switched to Thai product, I immediately noticed how lightweight the products felt on my skin. I tried the SNAILWHITE Whipp Soap, and it gave me a refreshing, clean feeling without the heavy residue. I also started using Mistine Aqua Base Sunscreen every day because, let’s face it, sunscreen is a must. This one is perfect for oily skin—it’s non-greasy, and it doesn’t clog pores. Thai products are made for tropical climates like ours, so I found them easy to use on a day-to-day basis.

Both Korean and Thai skincare are effective for oil control, but Thai products feel more comfortable in hot, humid weather. However, for a deeper cleanse and more hydration, I go hands down with Korean skincare.

Photo by BRANDS

Products for Brightening and Hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation is something I’ve struggled with, especially because of constant sun exposure when I’m in the field for academic work. So, finding products that help with brightening dark spots has been a big part of my skincare journey.

Korean skincare are known for their brightening formulas, and I saw this firsthand. I used Laneige’s Radian-C Cream, and noticed my dark spots fading more quickly than with other products I’d tried. As a sunscreen lover, the Etude House Sunprise Mild Airy Finish sunscreen also became a staple in my routine. This sunscreen offers sun protection without making me oily, which can prevent my skin from pigmentation.

Thai skincare takes a more natural route when it comes to brightening. I tried SNAILWHITE Brightening Day Cream, and it worked slowly but surely. It’s a more gradual process compared to the quicker results I saw with Korean products. I also experimented with Oriental Princess’ Natural Power C Brightening Serum, which had a refreshing feel and left my skin brighter over time.

So, if you want faster, more visible results, I would recommend Korean skincare for brightening. It uses stronger ingredients like niacinamide and vitamin C, which work quicker to fade dark spots. But if you prefer a more natural, gentler, and gradual brightening effect, go for Thai skincare.

Photo by BRANDS

Find your Undertone with GRWM Foundation

Acne Treatment

If you have acne-prone skin like me, you might also want to try these products I once used.

First, Some By Mi’s AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Toner. It helped clear up my breakouts and kept new ones from forming, all without being too harsh.

After many months, I switched to Smooth E Babyface Foam from Thailand, which was gentle on my skin while helping to control breakouts. It worked well to fade acne scars without irritating my skin, which was a big plus.

When it comes to acne treatment, I personally found Korean skincare more effective for my oily and acne-prone skin. The products felt more targeted and powerful. However, Thai skincare offers a gentler option, which is great if you have sensitive skin and still want results.