Korean sensation Son Ye-jin shares her summer skincare secrets for radiant skin

A star's perspective on skin resilience

The humid and heat-packed summer of 2025 is pushing skincare routines to their limits, with experts warning that lightweight products alone are no longer enough. Reflecting this shift, acclaimed Korean actress Son Ye-jin, whose radiant and flawless skin has earned her recognition as one of the most admired complexions in Asia, has shared her approach to a summer regimen designed not just for beauty but also for skin longevity. She explains that consistency is central to her lifestyle, as soaring temperatures combined with heavy reliance on air conditioning can erode the delicate skin barrier. For Son, skincare is less about temporary glow and more about maintaining resilience in any environment - a philosophy that has kept her skin in the public spotlight as "one of the most enviable in the entertainment industry."

Beyond basic toners and sunscreens

A decade ago, a simple pairing of toner and sunscreen was often considered sufficient.

However, Son emphasizes that such minimal routines buckle under today's harsh seasonal conditions. She notes that constant heat can trigger micro-fissures in the outer layer of the skin, heightening sensitivity and causing irregular texture. Professionals in dermatology point toward powerful actives such as PDRN (Polydeoxyribonucleotide), renowned for its regenerative properties; retinol, proven to stimulate cell turnover; and high-strength niacinamide, which brightens while reinforcing the barrier system.

The Korean Cosmetic Association has reported that serums formulated with these components have been in strong demand, with the premium skincare segment reaching INR 24,000 crore in 2024 across Asian markets.

Cooling beauty products take center stage

Son Ye-jin also highlights her love for products that combat heat while locking in hydration. She mentions cooling sprays and gel-based masks as her dependable allies during long film shoots under intense lighting, often describing them as "instant relief" for overheated skin. In the broader beauty market, this trend has evolved into a robust demand for cooling foundations, primers, and dual-function products - solutions that calm redness while tightening pores. Reports from Cosmetic Business Asia underline how consumers are increasingly drawn to formulas that deliver both functionality and comfort, redefining skincare as a protective ritual rather than a fleeting fashion trend.

A smarter generation of consumers

K-beauty consultant Cho Hyee-jung observes that buyers today are more discerning than ever. Consumers reject superficial taglines, opting instead for deep research on ingredient efficacy, sustainability, and long-term benefits. She notes, "Women today are empowered - they want to know exactly what they're applying, how it functions, and they make their decisions with full knowledge of the science behind it." Her insight reflects the broader cultural transition in beauty: skincare has become a professional-grade practice for everyday people. Rather than blindly following new launches season to season, individuals now construct thoughtful regimens aimed at resisting external stressors - from humidity and UV exposure to the impact of prolonged indoor cooling.