Olive Young is a familiar destination for K-beauty shopping, but Korean pharmacies also sell a range of skincare products. Before buying, visitors should understand one important distinction: a product sold in a pharmacy is not necessarily a medicine or more effective than a cosmetic sold elsewhere.
Understand the product categories
Ordinary cosmetics include products such as cleansers and moisturizers.
Functional cosmetics are a separate Korean regulatory category covering designated claims, including certain wrinkle-improvement, skin-brightening and UV-protection uses.
Medicines and quasi-drugs are regulated separately. Ask a pharmacist when a product's classification or intended use is unclear.
Five things to check before buying
- Confirm whether the product is a cosmetic, functional cosmetic, quasi-drug or medicine.
- Read the ingredient list, directions and precautions.
- Consider your skin type and existing skincare routine.
- Compare package sizes and unit prices across retailers.
- Check your home country's import rules before traveling with medicines.
Useful Korean phrases
이거 화장품이에요, 의약품이에요? — Is this a cosmetic or a medicine?
기능성화장품이에요? — Is this a functional cosmetic?
사용 방법을 알려주세요. — Could you explain how to use it?
The takeaway
A Korean pharmacy can be a useful place to ask questions about skincare, but the location of the shelf is not evidence of superior results. Compare the actual ingredients, product classification, suitability and price.
This guide is general shopping information, not individual medical advice.