Bestie, I just went down the DEEPEST rabbit hole watching this viral Korean makeup tutorial and I HAD to spill all the tea! π«
So you know how Korean idols always look flawless but somehow natural at the same time? Like that perfect “I woke up like this” vibe that’s actually super polished? Well, I found this incredible video where Sian gets her makeup done at the famous Kitts salon in Seoul by celebrity makeup artist Dain – the same artist who works with NMIXX, IVE, and aespa!
The whole video is about achieving what they call “Aespa-style Practice Makeup” – basically makeup that’s stage-ready but natural enough for daily wear. And girl, the techniques they use are absolutely genius! λλ° (daebak)! Let me break down all the Korean secrets I discovered.
The Korean “Glass Skin” Foundation Secret
Okay, so here’s where it gets interesting. Instead of just slapping on one foundation, Dain does this pro technique where she mixes TWO products together. In the video, you can see her combining the About-tone Skin Layer Air Fit Foundation with Cell Fusion C Skin Blemish Balm.
Now, I researched what Korean users are saying about this combo on Theqoo and Naver, and they’re calling it the “μ¨μ¬λ νΌλΆ” (breathing skin) technique. One reviewer said it feels “곡기μ²λΌ κ°λ²Όμμ λ΅λ΅ν¨ μμ” – literally like air with no stuffiness!
What I found fascinating is that this mixing method isn’t just for show – Korean dermatologists on Naver Knowledge iN actually recommend this for sensitive or textured skin because layering thin products is way gentler than one thick layer.
The Neck & Shoulder Game-Changer
Here’s a technique that absolutely blew my mind when I was analyzing the video. Dain applies this AOU Glow Tone Up Cream not just on the face, but on the NECK, SHOULDERS, and even the EARS!
I was like “μ§μ§? (jinjja?) Really?” But then I dug into Korean forums and found out this is actually standard practice for K-pop idols during photoshoots. The uniform skin tone is crucial for those high-def cameras.
Korean office workers in their 20s are apparently loving the AOU cream too. One Theqoo post with 200+ agrees called it “ν€μ +κ΄μ± μλ²½, κ±΄μ± νμν ” (perfect tone-up + glow, must-have for dry skin). The pearl shimmer gives that coveted glass skin effect without looking greasy.
Shadow-Only Eyeliner: The Korean Eye Secret
Now THIS technique had me shook! Instead of using harsh liquid eyeliners, Dain creates definition using only shadows. In the video, you can see how she uses dark eyeshadows to line the eyes while keeping them looking “open” and natural.
She uses the Peripera All Take Mood Palette in ‘Muteful Rose’ to create this soft definition that Korean communities are calling “soft definition” makeup. It’s all about depth without harsh lines.
Based on my research, this palette is absolutely everywhere in Korean beauty circles right now. Korean influencers on YouTube are praising Dain’s brushing technique, with comments like “λ°μΈ μΈλ λΈλ¬μ± κΈ°λ² μ²μ¬” (Dain’s brushing technique is genius).
Aegyosal: The Secret to Korean “Doll Eyes”
Okay bestie, if you don’t know about aegyosal (μ κ΅μ΄), you’re about to learn something that will change your makeup game forever! It’s basically creating or enhancing the under-eye “fat” to make eyes look bigger and more youthful.
In the video, Dain uses the Bbia Last Auto Gel Liner in ‘Linen Beige’ to create this effect. What I found interesting from Korean beauty forums is that this technique is considered essential for that “Korean doll” look that’s so popular right now.
The Professional “2nd Base” Technique
Here’s where it gets really technical, and honestly, this is why Korean makeup just hits different. After all the base work, Dain does what she calls a “2nd base” application.
This step ensures the makeup is camera-ready and will last for hours under studio lights. Korean netizens are calling this part of the “νλ‘μ²λΌ λΌμ” (feels pro-level) trend that’s been viral since this video dropped.
The Final Eye Look: Dewy Korean Perfection
The finished eye makeup is just *chef’s kiss* perfect. It’s that dewy, natural look that somehow still photographs beautifully under professional lighting.
What I love about this technique is how it balances being defined enough for stage performance but natural enough that you could wear it to work in Seoul and not look overdone.
Korean Blusher Secrets
For the blush, Dain uses The Saem Saemmul Single Blusher in ‘Cinnamon Rose’ with this specific layering technique that creates the most natural flush.
I researched Korean reviews of this blusher and found that users love how buildable it is. The key is in the application – multiple light layers instead of one heavy application.
The Final Aespa-Style Look
And here’s the final result – that perfect “Aespa-style Practice Makeup” that’s been trending in Korean beauty communities!
What makes this look so special is that it photographs beautifully under professional studio lights while still looking natural in person. It’s the perfect example of that Korean makeup philosophy where less is more, but executed flawlessly.
Where to Buy These Products in Korea
If you’re planning a Seoul beauty shopping trip, here’s the insider info:
- Olive Young is your best bet for discounts – About-tone often goes on sale for around KRW 22,000
- Myeongdong Olive Young always has these products in stock
- Coupang for next-day delivery if you’re staying in Seoul – often the cheapest prices
Korean shopping hack I found: Download the Olive Young app to check stock before visiting, and get that membership for extra discounts plus free samples!
Korean Alternatives According to Netizens
If you can’t find the exact products, Korean beauty communities recommend these dupes:
- For Cell Fusion C BB Cream: Aestura Atobarrier 365 Cream (Instiz’s #1 recommendation)
- For About-tone Foundation: Black Rouge Air Fit Foundation
- Budget option: Holika Holika Aqua Jelly BB – Naver users call it “μ λ ΄ν μ ν¨μ λ체” (cheap Cell Fusion substitute)
Honestly, after diving deep into Korean beauty forums for this research, I’m so impressed by how thoughtful Korean makeup techniques are. Every step has a purpose, and the results speak for themselves!
What do you think, bestie? Are you ready to try some of these Korean idol makeup secrets? Let me know if you want me to research any specific products or techniques! π
Sources & References
Video Source: Original makeup tutorial featuring Sian at Kitts Salon with celebrity makeup artist Dain
Korean Research: User reviews and discussions from Theqoo, Instiz, Naver Blog, Naver Cafe, and DC Inside beauty communities
Product Information: Pricing and availability data from Olive Young, Coupang, and major Korean department stores
Expert Insights: Korean dermatologist advice from Naver Knowledge iN and beauty expert comments from Korean YouTube channels
