Korean and Japanese beauty products have taken the North American market by storm in recent years. The craze for Asian skincare brands is on the rise, and the K-beauty trend is here to stay! Discover with me the must-have cosmetic brands from Korea and Japan for flawless skin.

Getting Started with an Asian Beauty Routine

Cosmetics from Japan, Korea, and other Asian countries have been gaining popularity in recent years. Personally, I was introduced to these products in 2016 when The Face Shop stores opened in Quebec (now closed). Then, in 2018, I was invited to an event to discover a variety of Korean products. That same year, my sister visited Asia and generously brought me back several Japanese cosmetic products. So, I’ve been using and testing various Asian beauty products for almost 10 years now.

The appeal of Asian cosmetics lies primarily in the gentleness and effectiveness of the products. They often contain natural ingredients, have innovative formulas, and are generally affordable. The glass skin trend and the undeniable influence of K-pop and K-dramas also explain the popularity of Korean and Japanese cosmetics in North America. Who doesn’t dream of a flawless complexion like the beautiful Korean celebrities?

Where to buy Korean and Japanese cosmetics in Montreal

The Asian cosmetics market in North America has evolved considerably in recent years. Many boutiques have opened, and international websites offer shipping. You’ll find a wide selection of facial care products, as well as makeup, hair care, body care, and even adorable accessories.

My favourite spots in Montreal:

• Axia Station, 1192 Sainte-Catherine Street West
• C&C Cosmetics, 998 and 1116 Saint-Laurent Street
• Nanami, 1441 Guy Street (and other locations)
• Sukoshi, 5050 Côte-de-Liesse Road (Royalmount)
• Wow Beauty, 5050 Côte-de-Liesse Road (Royalmount; I was lucky enough to be invited to the opening in December 2025)

Websites that ship to Canada, in addition to the addresses above:

• Stylevana *Use code SV15BEATBLUSH for 10-18% off orders of $75 or more.
• YesStyle
• Olive Young
• Many other websites to discover

Some essential brands and products to try

There are many excellent Asian cosmetic brands and products on the market. In fact, the variety is so vast that it can become complicated to know where to start! A good way to get into K-beauty is to begin with sheet masks. They’re a sure value and so much fun to use.

Incorporate them into your beauty routine once a week for a relaxing moment and a boost for your skin. Among the best and most popular sheet masks are those from Biodance (the ones you wear for 4 hours, relaxation guaranteed!), Anua, and Innisfree.

Here are a few brands and products that have proven their worth.

Medicube collagen night wrapping mask

This Medicube mask dries down, creating a protective film on the skin, which you then peel off in the morning. It locks in moisture and nutrients to reveal firmer, more hydrated skin. It contains niacinamide and ceramides to improve skin firmness and texture. It’s fun to use, and your skin will be incredibly radiant and plump when you wake up!

Some By Mi – retinol products

The retinol intense advanced triple action eye cream contains 0.1% retinol, the perfect amount for those new to this almost magical anti-aging ingredient. Use it as an eye cream or as an anti-aging treatment all over your face, neck, and décolleté.

The retinol intense reactivating mask contains retinol, retinal, and bakuchiol. It improves skin texture while preventing signs of aging. This mask is suitable for sensitive skin and can be used to boost radiance before a special event.

VT – cica products

Cica, also known as Centella asiatica, is a plant with soothing and restorative properties, thanks to its rich composition of vitamins, fatty acids, and amino acids. It’s a great ally for sensitive and dry skin.

VT’s mild toner pads gently exfoliate while hydrating the skin. This product can be used daily and is suitable for all skin types. A lovely little detail: tiny tweezers are included for hygienic removal of each pad.

VT’s Cica spot patches are my all-time favourites! I rarely get breakouts, but when I do, I have no patience and want them gone immediately. These patches prevent contamination and speed up healing. A must-have!

Belif Aqua Bomb sleeping mask

Belif’s Aqua Bomb sleeping mask has a soothing gel texture. It intensely hydrates the skin and helps it retain moisture. The mask has a slightly sticky finish, and a little goes a long way.

Elizavecca Cer-100 Collagen Coating Protein Ion Injection

Protein ion injection is a revitalizing hair treatment containing hydrolyzed collagen and keratin to strengthen and repair hair. Hair is left shiny and smooth, without a sticky or heavy finish.

Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun SPF 50+

Beauty of Joseon’s SPF 50+ sunscreen is a favourite of my friend, who is a Korean skincare expert! I adopted it thanks to her. This sunscreen doesn’t leave a white cast on the face and moisturizes the skin, thanks to the rice extract and probiotics it contains. It’s an everyday essential, especially on sunny days!

If you haven’t already, now’s the time to embrace Korean and Japanese cosmetics!