This powerful all-in-one cream combines two trending K-beauty innovations in a single formula: capsule creams and spicule skin care. Reminiscent of Medicube’s vitamin C capsule cream, it combines golden capsules with a clear gel base. Although the two may look similar, the ingredients are different. The golden capsules in Sungboon Editor’s moisturizer are packed with retinol and collagen to help brighten and smooth your complexion, while the clear gel contains hyaluronic acid and panthenol to hydrate skin. The fast-absorbing gel also contains spicules, which are tiny, needle-like structures. “Spicules create little microchannels in the skin to enhance penetration and absorption of skin care products,” says Dr. Kim. “They can be a little spicy, so go easy and use one to two times a week at first. Make sure you don’t use spicule skin care on active acne flare-ups or open wounds.”
Tester feedback: “I’ve tested most of the best Korean retinols on the market, and this easily deserves a spot on the list,” says Wu. “This isn’t my first time using spicule-infused skin care, so I was ready for the not-so-mild tingle. The concentration of spicules in this gel cream is on the more mild side, so it didn’t sting as much as some other spicule serums I’ve tried. If you’ve done microneedling, it feels like a mild version of that. I definitely get a noticeable plumping, firming effect with this moisturizer and I also put it over my neck and chest to help smooth the lines there. It’s one of the most well-formulated Korean moisturizers I’ve tried recently.”
Glamour’s Calle has been using this spicule cream for the past month and has seen a noticeable a glow in her complexion.
- Key ingredients: Retinol, collagen, panthenol, hyaluronic acid, peptides, spicules
- Fragrance: No
- Highlights: Spicules create “microneedling” effect; enhances retinol penetration; helps firm, smooth, and brighten skin
