Best K-Beauty Under $25 You Need to Try

K-beauty has become one of the most exciting corners of skincare, but let’s be honest, sometimes the prices can feel overwhelming. What if I told you that you don’t have to spend a fortune to see real results? Some of the best K-beauty products on the market cost under $25, and they’re packed with the same skin-loving ingredients as luxury brands. (Photo by cottonbro studio)

I’ve personally tested all of these products, and I can confidently say they deliver. These aren’t just pretty bottles sitting on my shelf; they’ve earned a permanent place in my skincare routine because they actually work. Whether you’re trying to tackle dullness, dryness, uneven skin tone, or just want to keep your skin healthy on a budget, these picks will help you get there without draining your wallet.

Here are my top K-beauty finds under $25, all available on YesStyle (and you can use my discount code SWEET07 for extra savings).

1. TIRTIR – Hydro Boost Enzyme Cleansing Balm

Cleansing balms are one of those products that can feel unnecessary until you try a good one, then there’s no going back. The TIRTIR Hydro Boost Enzyme Cleansing Balm is a perfect example.

It has this silky balm-to-milk texture that melts away sunscreen and makeup without leaving a greasy film behind. Unlike some cleansing balms that feel heavy, this one is surprisingly lightweight, and the addition of enzymes means it also gives a super gentle exfoliation while cleansing.

Why I love it: My skin feels soft and clean after using it, not tight or dry. I reach for it especially when I’ve been wearing sunscreen all day and want to make sure my pores are really clear.

Best for: All skin types, especially if you wear sunscreen or makeup daily.

👉 Shop TIRTIR Hydro Boost Enzyme Cleansing Balm on YesStyle (use code SWEET07)

2. Beauty of Joseon – Revive Eye Serum

Eye care is one of those categories where people often overspend, but this serum proves you don’t need to. The Beauty of Joseon Revive Eye Serum combines ginseng extract with a gentle retinol derivative, making it perfect for targeting fine lines and boosting brightness around the eyes.

Why I love it: It has a lightweight texture that absorbs quickly, so it doesn’t interfere with makeup or concealer. I was a little nervous about trying retinol near my eyes at first, but this formula is so gentle I’ve had no irritation at all. Over time, I noticed the area under my eyes looking smoother and less tired.

Best for: Anyone starting their anti-aging routine or looking for a gentle, affordable eye treatment.

👉 Shop Beauty of Joseon Revive Eye Serum on YesStyle (use code SWEET07)

3. ROUND LAB – Birch Juice Moisturizing Sun Stick

We all know sunscreen is non-negotiable, but reapplying it throughout the day? That’s where most of us fall short. The ROUND LAB Birch Juice Moisturizing Sun Stick is one of the easiest solutions I’ve found.

It glides on smoothly without messing up makeup, doesn’t leave a white cast, and actually feels hydrating thanks to birch sap. I keep one in my bag and reapply in seconds, which means no excuses for skipping SPF.

Why I love it: Honestly, it’s so convenient that I’ve stopped dreading SPF reapplication. Plus, it doesn’t leave that sticky residue some sticks do.

Best for: Busy days, travel, or anyone who hates the feel of traditional sunscreen reapplication.

👉 Shop ROUND LAB Birch Juice Sun Stick on YesStyle (use code SWEET07)

Want to see more honest reviews, tutorials, and everyday skincare tips? Come hang out with me on Instagram @sweetpassions0 — I share even more K-beauty favorites and routines there!

 

4. Isntree – Chestnut BHA 0.9% Clear Toner

If you’ve ever struggled with clogged pores, uneven texture, or breakouts, a BHA toner can make a world of difference. The Isntree Chestnut BHA 0.9% Clear Toner is one of the gentlest exfoliating toners I’ve used.

With under 1% BHA, it’s beginner-friendly but still effective at keeping pores clear and improving skin texture. I love that it doesn’t sting or leave my skin feeling stripped, which makes it easy to use a few times a week without worrying about irritation.

Why I love it: My skin feels smoother, and I’ve noticed fewer congested areas since adding it into my routine. It also layers well with hydrating toners and serums.

Best for: Combination or oily skin, or anyone new to chemical exfoliants.

👉 Shop Isntree Chestnut BHA Toner on YesStyle (use code SWEET07)

5. Anua – Niacinamide 10 TXA 4 Serum

Niacinamide is one of my favorite skincare ingredients because it does so much: controls oil, minimizes the appearance of pores, and helps brighten the skin. This serum from Anua pairs 10% niacinamide with tranexamic acid, which is amazing for targeting uneven skin tone and dark spots.

Why I love it: After consistent use, I noticed my skin tone looking more even and my pores less visible. It has a lightweight texture that sinks in quickly and doesn’t pill under moisturizer or SPF.

Best for: Anyone dealing with dark spots, dullness, or excess oil.

👉 Shop Anua Niacinamide TXA Serum on YesStyle (use code SWEET07)

6. numbuzin – No.5+ Glutathione Vitamin-Niacinamide Concentrated Pad

These pads are soaked in a brightening essence that combines glutathione, niacinamide, and vitamins. I use them in the morning when my skin looks dull, and they instantly refresh and prep my skin for makeup.

Why I love it: They’re so easy to use, just swipe and go. I also love using them before a night out when I want my skin to look extra radiant. Over time, they help with brightness and overall clarity.

Best for: Dull, tired skin that needs a quick boost.

👉 Shop numbuzin No.5+ Pads on YesStyle (use code SWEET07)

Build Your $20 K-Beauty Routine

One of the best things about these products is that you can actually mix and match them to create a full skincare routine for less than the price of one high-end serum. Here’s a simple way to combine them:

• Step 1 (Cleanse): TIRTIR Hydro Boost Enzyme Cleansing Balm
• Step 2 (Exfoliate, a few times a week): Isntree Chestnut BHA Toner
• Step 3 (Treat): Anua Niacinamide TXA Serum or numbuzin Brightening Pads
• Step 4 (Eyes): Beauty of Joseon Revive Eye Serum
• Step 5 (Protect): ROUND LAB Birch Juice Sun Stick

Affordable, effective, and honestly… fun to use.

Final Thoughts

Skincare doesn’t have to cost a fortune to work. These under-$20 K-beauty finds prove that you can get high-quality ingredients, thoughtful formulations, and real results without overspending.

I’ve tested each one of these products, and they’ve all impressed me enough to keep in my routine. If you’ve been curious about K-beauty but hesitant about the price, start here. You’ll be surprised at how far $25 can go.

👉 You can find all of these on YesStyle, and don’t forget to use my code SWEET07 for extra savings. (All links above already include discounts so you can shop directly.)

Affordable skincare is possible, and your skin will thank you for it. 🌸