Beauty · 2026. 10. 29.

Olive Young Shopping Guide: 2024 K-Beauty Bestseller List

BY 김민중

What are the must-have skincare products at Olive Young?

While you might feel overwhelmed by the countless brands and products when entering an Olive Young store, the most efficient strategy is to target the steady-sellers that are consistently loved by Korean consumers. Products with excellent soothing and moisturizing effects, in particular, top the rankings every month.

How to choose pads for skin soothing

Check ingredients for your skin type: If you have sensitive skin, choose pads containing Cica (Centella Asiatica).
Determine the purpose: Check the texture of the pad to see if it is for exfoliation or hydration.
Hygienic storage: It is recommended to purchase products that include tweezers to maintain cleanliness at all times.

Recommended creams and ampoules for hydration

Korean beauty trends favor lightweight formulas that hydrate deep within the skin rather than heavy textures. Ampoules containing panthenol or hyaluronic acid are particularly popular among foreign tourists as they absorb well without pilling before makeup. When choosing a cream, you should adjust the texture based on whether your skin is dry or oily. For dry skin, choose a highly moisturizing cream rich in ceramides, and for oily skin, opt for a gel-type moisture cream to balance oil and water levels. These products are easily found in the Olive Young bestseller section, and I recommend using the testers in-store to apply them to your skin and check the texture yourself.

Makeup trends to watch at Olive Young

Recent Korean makeup focuses on natural radiance and transparent color payoff. The makeup corner at Olive Young reflects these trends quickly, with a wide variety of color compositions tailored to personal color analysis.

Tips for choosing the perfect lip product

Distinguish between matte and glow: Choose a matte tint if you want longevity, or a glow tint for a dewy, water-gloss look.
Testing is essential: Instead of your hand, apply a little to the inside of your lip to see how it blends with your actual skin tone.
Utilize layering: Mixing two colors can help you create your own unique vibe.

Harmony of eye makeup and base

For eye makeup, a palette that creates natural shading is essential. Palettes sold at Olive Young are composed of harmonious colors that are easy even for beginners to use. For base makeup, the standard for Korean makeup is to achieve a transparent look using primers that smooth out skin texture or tone-up sunscreens. Cushion compacts are particularly convenient for touch-ups while traveling, and with a variety of coverage levels and finishes available, you can choose one that suits your specific skin concerns. Asking a store clerk for the most popular shade can greatly reduce the chance of a mismatch.

How to shop smarter at Olive Young

For a successful shopping trip, you need a strategy that goes beyond just buying products by maximizing the store's benefits and information.

Utilizing sale periods and promotions

Check Olive Young sale dates: You can purchase products at lower prices than usual by taking advantage of the large-scale discount events held every quarter.
Target 1+1 promotional sets: Many Korean cosmetics come in 1+1 sets, which are great for sharing with friends or buying as gifts.
Check for tax-free benefits: If you are a foreign tourist, bring your passport and check at the counter before payment to see if you can receive immediate tax-free benefits.

Precautions when visiting the store

It is better to visit during off-peak hours as stores can get very crowded. Also, always use clean cotton swabs or disposable tools to test products hygienically. The expiration date is usually marked on the bottom or back of the box, so make it a habit to check before purchasing. Finally, installing the Olive Young mobile app helps you check real-time rankings, which is a great way to quickly identify what is currently trending in Korea. If you keep these tips in mind, you will be able to perfectly complete your beauty shopping, one of the highlights of any trip to Korea.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can foreigners receive tax-free benefits at Olive Young?+

You can receive immediate tax refunds by presenting your passport at checkout in Olive Young stores. Benefits are applied to purchases over a certain amount, so it is best to ask the staff about tax-free eligibility while showing your passport before payment. Look for the 'Tax Refund' signs posted throughout the store.

How can I check Olive Young bestsellers?+

You can identify the most popular products in real-time by checking the ranking displays inside Olive Young stores or by visiting the 'Ranking' menu on the official website and app. The monthly updated category-specific rankings reflect the actual purchasing trends of Korean consumers, helping you shop without regrets.

How do recommended Olive Young products differ by skin type?+

Recommended products at Olive Young are formulated with different ingredients and textures depending on skin types such as dry, oily, or sensitive. For dry skin, it is recommended to choose creams and oils with strong moisturizing power, while oily skin benefits from toners and gel-type products that control excess oil. Use the in-store testers to check the texture and choose products that match your specific skin concerns.

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About the author

김

김민중

Writes practical guides to Korean beauty and food for overseas readers — Olive Young, convenience stores, and how-to tips.

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