Olive Young Shopping Guide: 3 Ways to Identify Korean Beauty Trends

How to Shop Efficiently at Olive Young

Olive Young is a leading health and beauty retailer found all over Korea, making it the perfect place to test and purchase products from numerous K-beauty brands in one spot. As you enter, the first thing you will notice is the 'Olive Young Awards' display near the entrance. This section features the most loved products of the past year categorized by type, making it the most recommended area for beginners who want to shop without any misses.

Using In-Store Testers

• Every product has an opened tester available, allowing you to check the texture or how it matches your skin tone.
• For color cosmetics, keep in mind there may be a difference between store lighting and natural light; it is recommended to test on the back of your hand and wait a moment to see the true color.
• Since recommendations vary by skin type, we advise reading the product description cards provided in the store carefully.

Tax Refunds and Payment Tips

• Major large-scale stores offer instant tax refund services for international tourists.
• If you present your passport during payment, you can receive an immediate tax refund, allowing for more budget-friendly shopping.
• Before paying, always check the store signage to confirm if that specific branch offers tax refund services.

3 Categories You Must Buy at Olive Young

The appeal of Olive Young lies in its wide range of products, from skincare and makeup to health supplements. Products concentrated with Korean skincare technology are particularly popular worldwide. Here are three key categories you should look out for when visiting.

Trouble Care and Sheet Masks

• Korean trouble care patches feature advanced technology and come in various sizes and shapes, allowing you to choose the perfect fit for your concerns.
• Sheet masks are highly popular as travel souvenirs due to their excellent value for money.

Sun Care and Makeup Base

• Korean sunscreens are loved for their lightweight, lotion-like textures that are non-sticky and perfect for daily use.
• Tone-up creams and cushion foundations that naturally correct skin tone are core items in Korean makeup routines.

Health Supplements and Inner Beauty

• Recently, inner beauty products like collagen and probiotics for skin health have gained significant attention in Korea.
• Olive Young stocks products that have passed strict standards, so you can shop with confidence.

Checklist for Shopping at Olive Young

To ensure a successful shopping trip, it is helpful to be aware of a few details. Inventory varies by store, and prices can fluctuate based on promotional periods. Check the following points for smarter shopping.

Stock Availability and Store Differences

• 'Flagship stores' carry a much wider variety of brands and products compared to standard locations.
• Popular items may sell out quickly, so checking stock levels via the online mall before your visit is a great strategy.

Utilizing Promotional Periods

• Olive Young regularly hosts a massive discount event called 'Olive Young Sale.'
• During this period, you can purchase premium products at significantly lower prices, so it is worth checking the sale schedule if you have a trip to Korea planned.

Choosing Products by Skin Type

• Korean cosmetics are highly specialized. It is best to accurately identify your skin concerns (dry, oily, sensitive, etc.) and check the benefits listed on the packaging before purchasing.
• If you are trying a product for the first time, we recommend starting with a smaller size or a trial kit rather than a full-size version.