Q&A With Korean Beauty Maven Alicia Yoon

We've been obsessed (like everyone else) with Korean skincare. Just recently we wrote this glowing review of snail slime—an incredible ingredient that deeply hydrates, handles rosacea, and minimizes acne. One of the best state-side resources for Korean Beauty is Peach and Lily, founded by Alicia Yoon, a graduate of Columbia University and Harvard Business School (and yes, her skin is flawless). You want to know what's in her cabinet, right? Us too—read on for Alicia Yoon's beauty favorites and go-to products.

Korean vs. American: What's The Main Difference?

"The Korean standard for how people want to treat their skin is unparalleled to other parts of the world. Women are so skincare savvy… they know exactly what they need. The all-in-one approach in American products is not something you will see in Korean products." The variety and hyper-targeted approach is what draws Alicia—and the rest of us—to Korean products.

Alicia's Top Two Skincare Must-Haves: SPF + Antioxidants Obviously

It's all about skin type, says Alicia, and knowing your skin so you can properly treat it. "But no matter what," she says, "everybody should be investing in a good SPF. Specifically one that's enjoyable and can be easily incorporated into a skincare routine. We tend to put off actually using SPF, but that will always lead to sun damage, which is not easily reversible.” The fact that most Korean products feature SPF 30 or higher makes it incredibly hard to skimp on SPF (even in your makeup). 

Alicia explains, “People often think using an SPF is enough, but it can be a little leaky, so it’s really important to pair it with antioxidants. Think of SPF as your fort, which basically keeps the UV rays out, but it’s a vulnerable fort. Think of antioxidants as the militia on the ground fighting the free radicals because they got through your fort.”

What's the one product that you always keep in your bag?

"At the moment, I cannot leave home without my IOPE Air Cushion Sunblock XP. It’s radiance with just a few dabs and that’s where I get my SPF.”

GET IT:

Mizon All-In-One Snail Repair Cream, $38 at Peach & Lily. IOPE Air Cushion Sun Block XP, $40 at Peach and Lily Mizon UV Bounce Cushion Cream SPF 30, at Peach & Lily; CNP Omega Sunblock SPF 50, $44 at Shop Korea Be The Skin Purifying White Waterful Toner, $29 at Peach & Lily

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Interviewed by Brooke Halverstadt & Amanda Cruz in New York City Photo Credit: Urban Outfitters