Best Kpop Makeup Guide: How-To Achieve Korean Beauty 2024

Currently, most people are familiar with the rapid rise of Kpop. Its impact extends beyond the music industry, significantly influencing the beauty industry. Korean cosmetics, particularly those inspired by Kpop, have become essential.

Westerners are embracing these trends, and if you’re curious to dive into the Kpop style, this article is your perfect guide.

Kpop Makeup

I dug deep into research for this article, aiming for detailed, foolproof instructions. Plus, I had a chat with my friend who has been a huge Kpop fan for years now for some extra tips. This article’s got you covered with everything you need to nail that perfect Kpop makeup look.

Understanding Kpop Makeup

Where did this enchanting makeup trend come from, and what sets it apart? Let’s find out!

History of Kpop Makeup

Kpop makeup has evolved over the years with the rise of fashionable K-pop groups such as BTS and BLACKPINK, as well as renowned Korean makeup artists like Hong Hyunjeong.

Their makeup trends have been influenced by a mix of Western styles and traditional Asian makeup, blending seamlessly to create a unique K-pop aesthetic. But it’s not just about the looks; it’s also a way for these artists to express their personalities and creativity on stage.

The Uniqueness of Kpop Makeup

So, what makes kpop makeup truly unique? Here are some key aspects that stand out for me:

1. Natural-looking skin: The emphasis on glass skin is one of the most iconic features of kpop makeup. It gives off a dewy, youthful look that has become popular among fans and beauty enthusiasts alike.
2. Bold, colorful eyes: Kpop idols love to experiment with vibrant eyeshadow colors and unique shapes to make their eyes truly pop. I especially admire how they manage to pull off such elaborate eye makeup, yet still maintain a polished overall appearance.
3. Gradient lips: It’s hard not to notice the distinct ombre effect on their lips that adds a subtle richness to the overall makeup look.
4. Individualized makeup styles: Each kpop idol has its distinct makeup style customized to suit their features and personalities, making it all the more captivating.

Essential Products for Kpop Makeup

I’ll introduce you to essentials you must have in your makeup bag for an authentic Kpop look, divided into five subsections: Eye Shadows, Mascaras, Lipsticks, Blushes, and Highlighters.

Eye Shadows

Kpop eye shadow looks often feature shimmery and bright colors that create a dazzling effect. This one is an absolute must-have as it offers a variety of shades that can suit any Kpop makeup look.

Pro Tip: Apply eye shadow with a damp brush to intensify the shimmer and make the colors pop.

Mascaras

Volume and length are essential when it comes to Kpop mascaras. A good Korean mascara will make your lashes more dramatic, making your eyes look bigger and more doll-like.

My Advice: Look for curling and waterproof mascaras that won’t smudge or weigh down your lashes.

Lipsticks

Achieving Kpop look requires a mix of vibrant and more subtle lip colors. I recommend some Korean lipsticks which provide long-lasting color with a smooth, glossy finish.

Blushes

Kpop idols, like Blackpink Lisa and Chung-Ha, adore fresh, peachy, and coral blushes. One notable product is the Clinique Cheek Pop in Melon Pop which adds a lovely peachy, coral sheen to your cheeks.

Highlighters

Any Kpop makeup look isn’t complete without a touch of highlighter. Aim for one that provides a natural, dewy glow to accentuate your features.

Look for a highlighter that complements your skin tone and don’t be afraid to try various textures, such as cream or powder, for a customized Kpop makeup look.

Kpop Makeup Techniques

The perfect K-pop look involves a mix of techniques that showcase features in a subtle, yet alluring way.

Gradient Lips

The gradient lip is a staple in K-pop makeup, giving the appearance of just-bitten, soft lips. Here’s how you can achieve this popular look:

1. Start with a clean, smooth base by moisturizing and applying a light layer of foundation or concealer on your lips.
2. Use a lip tint or lipstick in a vivid color, like berry or red, and apply it to the inner part of your lips.
3. Gently blend the color outwards using a cotton swab, brush, or your fingertip, creating a fading effect towards the lip border.

Pro Tip: To make the gradient more natural, you can first apply a lip concealer before the lip tint.

Mild Smokey Eyes

K-pop makeup often features a milder version of the classic smokey eye that beautifully complements Asian eye shapes. Here’s how you can achieve this look:

1. Apply an eye primer to create a smooth base and increase the longevity of your eyeshadow.
2. Choose three shades of eyeshadow: a light base, medium transition, and darker color.
3. Apply the light base shade over the entire eyelid, up to the brow bone.
4. Blend in the medium transition shade on the crease area to add dimension.
5. Use the darker shade on the outer corners, blending it in toward the center.
6. For a definition, apply a thin line of eyeliner that flicks up slightly at the end.

Dewy Skin

In K-pop makeup, having healthy, glowing skin is crucial. Here’s how to achieve the flawless dewy look:

1. Start with a diligent skincare routine! Cleanse, tone, and moisturize your skin regularly.
2. Apply a hydrating primer to ensure a smooth makeup application.
3. Choose a foundation or BB cream with a luminous finish, like YSL’s Youth Liberator Serum Foundation that many K-pop idols use.
4. Apply a liquid highlighter to the high points of your face (cheekbones, nose bridge, and brow bone).
5. Set your makeup with a translucent powder to maintain a glowy look without getting greasy.

Remember: Experiment, practice, and most importantly, have fun with your makeup journey.

Most Iconic Kpop Makeup Looks

In this section, we will explore some of the most iconic Kpop makeup styles in the industry.

G-Dragon’s Eye Catching Looks

G-Dragon, the leader of Big Bang, has always been known for his distinctive and innovative makeup styles. Some notable looks include:

• Dramatic smoky eyes: G-Dragon’s eye makeup often features an intense smoky eye, reminiscent of the look seen in EXO’s “Growl”.
• Vibrant colors: From bright red to neon green, G-Dragon isn’t afraid to experiment with bold eye makeup shades.

Pro Tip: To recreate G-Dragon’s eye-catching makeup look, use a good quality eyeshadow primer to ensure your colorful eyeshadow stays put.

Twice’s Natural Makeup

Twice, one of the most popular girl groups in Kpop, is known for its sweet and natural makeup styles. Their makeup usually features:

• Soft eyeshadows
• Natural lip tints
• Dewy skin

Twice’s makeup beautifully complements their charming and approachable image. You can even check some iconic makeup looks from girl groups like Twice, Red Velvet, and BLACKPINK here.

Blackpink’s Bold Makeup

Blackpink, another massively popular girl group, is famous for their fierce makeup looks. Some must-try elements of their iconic makeup include:

• Sharp winged eyeliner
• Bold lip shades
• Glittery eyeshadows

With their powerful music and bold makeup, Blackpink leaves a lasting impression on fans and viewers alike.

BTS’s Fresh-Faced Makeup

One of the biggest Kpop boy groups, BTS, has a fresh-faced makeup style that complements their youthful and energetic image. Their typical makeup components are:

• Soft eyeshadow
• Natural lip shades
• Glowing skin

BTS’s makeup style enhances their features without being too overpowering, which is one reason why they have garnered so much fan love worldwide.

Creating Your Own Kpop-Inspired Makeup

I’ll share some tips and inspirations for creating your kpop makeup look. Trust me, it’s easier than you think!

Step 1: Flawless Base

Kpop stars are known for their impeccable skin, so start by creating a flawless base. Apply a primer, followed by a lightweight foundation or BB cream. Remember to conceal any imperfections and set everything with a translucent powder for a K-pop star-like skin.

Step 2: Eyebrows

Eyebrows are essential in kpop makeup. Keep them natural and straight, as it’s a popular trend in Korea. Fill in your brows with a pencil or powder, following your natural shape.

Step 3: Eye Makeup

Eye makeup is where you can get creative. Here are some popular kpop makeup looks:

• Smoky Eyes: Just like ATEEZ’s San in “Answer”, try a glittery red look.
• Gradient Eyes: Blend multiple shades for a soft and elegant appearance.
• Bold Liner: Channel your inner BLACKPINK with a fierce, winged eyeliner.

Remember: Highlight the inner corners of your eyes and apply a generous amount of mascara for a wide-eyed look.

Step 4: Cheeks

For a fresh, youthful glow, add a touch of blush on the apples of your cheeks. Choose a shade that complements your skin tone, and apply it in a subtle, circular motion.

Step 5: Lips

Complete your kpop makeup look with the perfect lip color. Go for a gradient lip by applying a darker shade on the inner part of your lips and blending it outwards with a lighter shade.

Kpop Makeup: Top Takeaways

1. Glass skin: This Korean beauty trend revolves around having healthy, soft, and dewy skin. It’s the core of kpop makeup, setting the stage for other makeup elements.
2. Bold, expressive eyes: Kpop makeup is all about drawing attention to the eyes. From dramatic eyeliners to bold, glittery eyeshadows— the idea is to create a striking look that pops.
3. Monochromatic makeup: This trend, often seen in kpop music videos, involves matching the color of your eyeshadow, blush, and lip products. For instance, you can coordinate shades of pink or coral for a harmonious look.
4. Lips with gradient effect: Instead of a lip color applied evenly, kpop makeup features a softer, gradient effect. This involves applying a darker shade in the center of the lips and fading it out, creating a subtle pout.
5. Influencer-approved products: Some of our favorite kpop idols use and endorse specific makeup products. For example, Clinique’s Cheek Pop in Melon Pop is a fan favorite among Blackpink Lisa and Chung-Ha followers.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and have fun with colors or trends – after all, it’s the uniqueness that makes kpop makeup so mesmerizing.

FAQ

If you liked this blog article about the topic: “Best Kpop Makeup Guide”, don’t forget to leave us a comment down below to tell us about your experience.