When it comes to K-beauty, viral products often steal the spotlight – but some of the most effective formulas quietly fly under the radar. Today, we’re spotlighting two underrated Korean skincare products that deserve far more attention for their performance, formulation quality, and skin-transforming results.

If you’re dealing with congestion, acne, oiliness, dehydration, or early signs of ageing, these are two products worth upgrading your routine for.

ANUA BHA 2% Gentle Exfoliating Toner – A Powerhouse Exfoliant That Respects Your Skin Barrier

ANUA is known for releasing one viral hit after another, which makes it surprising that their 2% BHA Toner isn’t talked about more – especially given how effective it is.

This toner contains 2% Salicylic Acid, which is the maximum effective concentration for a leave-on exfoliant. Salicylic acid is oil-soluble, meaning it can penetrate deep into the pores to:

• Break down excess sebum and buildup
• Clear clogged pores and blackheads
• Reduce congestion and acne
• Smooth skin texture over time
  
  

What truly sets this toner apart is how gentle and balanced it feels for such a high-strength exfoliant. Many 2% BHA products can be harsh or irritating, but ANUA’s formula is thoughtfully buffered with:

• Multiple forms of Hyaluronic Acid to maintain hydration
• Centella Asiatica to calm redness and inflammation
• Barrier-strengthening ingredients that support skin recovery while exfoliation is happening
  
  

This makes it an excellent option for oily, acne-prone, and congested skin that wants visible results without compromising the skin barrier.

That said, if you have very sensitive skin or know that salicylic acid doesn’t agree with you, this may still be too strong. But for the right skin type, this toner is seriously underrated.

VT PDRN Essence 100 – A Next-Level Skin Repair Investment

VT is best known for their innovative Reedle Shot treatments, but if there’s one product you should also be paying attention to, it’s their PDRN Essence 100.

This essence contains an exceptional 100,000 ppm of vegan PDRN, derived from Ginseng. Compared to traditional PDRN, this vegan version has a lower molecular weight, allowing it to penetrate more deeply into the skin while remaining highly stable – meaning you get consistent, long-term results.

PDRN is prized for its ability to:

• Support skin regeneration
• Improve elasticity and firmness
• Strengthen weakened skin barriers
• Promote a healthier, more resilient complexion
  
  

But the formula doesn’t stop there. VT has stacked this essence with complementary ingredients that enhance its effectiveness:

• Niacinamide + Adenosine to brighten uneven tone and improve elasticity
• Ceramides, Squalane, Panthenol, and Allantoin to rebuild and protect the skin barrier
• Polyglucuronic Acid for long-lasting, deep hydration
  
  

Despite its high performance, the texture remains lightweight and layers beautifully, making it suitable for both morning and evening routines.

If there’s one product to invest in when upgrading your skincare routine, this is it – especially if your skin feels compromised, dehydrated, or in need of visible renewal.

Sometimes, the best skincare products aren’t the loudest ones on social media. Both ANUA's BHA 2% Gentle Exfoliating Toner and VT's PDRN Essence 100 deliver clinical-level results while prioritising skin health — which is exactly what modern K-beauty does best.

The good news? You don’t need to go to Korea to try them: you can find both products available at Skin Cupid. If you want results and a healthy skin barrier, these two are absolutely worth your attention.