By: Miriam Bribiesca
Welcome to the country of glass skin, flawless hair, and beauty routines and procedures at a fraction of the cost of what you would pay in the States. If there’s one place on earth that knows how to make your face glow like your favorite K-drama stars, it’s South Korea. And if you have been searching high and low for your next adventure and want to elevate it with a little pampering, then it’s time to pack your bags. Get ready for a beauty tour of South Korea that will have you looking flawless the moment you step off the plane.
Before we get started, don’t forget to bring along your International Student Identity Card (ISIC). With this card, you can snag discounts on everything from skincare products to spa treatments, making your upcoming beauty journey not only one for the books but also budget-friendly.
Sulwhasoo Spa in Seoul
Let’s kick things off with a place that’s all about that rich, traditional vibe. Sulwhasoo Spa, located in Seoul, is like stepping into a luxurious time machine that will not only soften the passage of time on your face but literally transport you into another century whose main goal is relaxation.
Sulwhasoo, a must-have for any skincare enthusiast, is renowned for its use of traditional Korean herbal medicine, or “hanbang.” We hear their spa treatments are heavenly so if you decide to treat yourself, make sure to take a look at their signature treatments, like the Ginseng Facial, which is all about boosting circulation and giving you that glow that screams “I woke up like this.” Queen Bee would be proud!
Banobagi Clinic in Seoul
If you are curious about dipping your toes into the world of cosmetic enhancements (no judgment here), Banobagi Clinic is a name you’ll want to remember. This clinic, located in the famous Gangnam district, is one of Seoul’s top spots for aesthetic treatments and offers anything from subtle tweaks to full transformations.
Whether you’re considering Botox, fillers, or something a little more involved, Banobagi is known for their natural-looking results, so you’ll still look like yourself, just more refreshed and ready to take on the world as many like to say.
Siloam Sauna
Now you can’t do a beauty tour of South Korea without experiencing a traditional jjimjilbang, and
Siloam Sauna is a top-tier Korean bathhouse that offers a wellness experience in the heart of Seoul.
While it might not be as flashy as Dragon Hill Spa (which is also another popular location), Siloam Sauna is highly regarded for its cleanliness, authentic Korean atmosphere and less crowds. Siloam Sauna is also known for its various themed rooms, including a salt room, oxygen room, and a hinoki (Japanese cypress) wood room. Who knew there were so many ways to revitalize the body! Sounds like you’ll never look at another spa the same way again.
The sauna also offers a classic Korean body scrub (seshin) that leaves your skin feeling smooth as a baby. And after a good scrub, we recommend you unwind in the hot baths or take a nap in the sleeping rooms, because let’s be real, you’ll definitely need some recharging after a long day of exploring the city. Oh and if you have time, don’t forget to try the Korean-style massage, where you’ll be stretched and twisted until every muscle in your body is singing with relief. We won’t lie, it’s intense but so worth it!
Innisfree Jeju House
Next stop: Jeju Island, the Hawaii of South Korea. This is where you’ll find Innisfree, one of Korea’s most beloved beauty brands, known for its commitment to natural ingredients sourced from Jeju Island. This place is more than just a store, it’s a beauty destination that allows visitors to immerse themselves in the world of natural beauty.
At Innisfree, you can create your own custom products, including personalized face masks using fresh, natural ingredients like green tea, volcanic ash, and tangerine peels all sourced from the island. How cool is that?! The experience also includes DIY workshops where you can learn about the benefits of Jeju’s natural resources and how they are incorporated into the skincare products you know and love.
So if you are looking for a more hands-on experience, the serene setting of the island offers a perfect escape for those looking to relax and rejuvenate while learning more about Korean beauty practices. Plus, by the end of your visit, you’ll be taking home custom creations that are uniquely created for your skin. Take us there, now!
Innisfree Jeju House
If your beauty goals are a bit more ambitious than a spa session, but you’re not quite ready for surgery, then Toxnfill Clinic is a must visit. They specialize in non-surgical treatments, and offer everything from laser facials to thread lifts, all designed to give you that “lights, camera, action” look without going under the knife.
While Toxnfill Clinic offers all kinds of procedures to target wrinkles, pigmentation, and other skin issues, their signature “V-Line” treatment is particularly popular. It is designed to contour and refine the face’s shape with little to no downtime. Think of it as getting a mini facelift during lunchtime and still being able to go to the birthday celebration in the evening. Okay, multitasker!
Now we know why Korea is known as the “cosmetic surgery capital of the world.” Whether you’re looking to relax, refresh, or completely revamp your look, South Korea has something for everyone. And if you’ve been looking for a sign to finally make the trip, then let this be it: we are partnering with our friends at Visit Korea and offering students like you exclusive flight deals to finally make the trip happen. So grab your bestie, your passport, and get ready because in the world of K-beauty, there’s no such thing as too much selfcare. Ready, Set, Glow!
