I’ve been hearing so much about K-beauty and have been lucky enough to receive several products to try recently. I’m always looking for formulas that can address the different and sometimes competing needs of my skin. Between high humidity, sun exposure, occasional breakouts and stubborn dry patches, my complexion has no shortage of concerns. I want effective solutions that deliver visible results without emptying my wallet.
** Complimentary products received for review.
That made me especially interested in the new K-Beauty Series from Kiss New York. One of the most recognizable names in beauty, Kiss New York is expanding into Korean skin care with a 25-piece collection manufactured in Korea and designed in New York. With every product priced under $20, the collection makes popular K-beauty products more accessible to shoppers seeking quality skin care at an affordable price.
The collection is organized into three lines, each developed with a different skin care priority in mind:
MEDI is a professional-inspired treatment line featuring high-performance formats, including overnight hydrogel masks designed to target specific skin concerns.
DERMA is a gentle, skin-focused line centered on intensive serum sheet masks. Its formulas are designed to support everyday skin care needs while emphasizing comfort, effectiveness and compatibility with sensitive skin.
LAB is an ingredient-driven line created for shoppers who select products based on active ingredients, targeted formulas and visible results.
I tried four products from the collection: the Plump Glow Collagen Jelly Cream, Bright Vita Charge Toner Pads, Skin Plump Vita Hydra Serum and Radiant Glow Kojic Acid Overnight Wrapping Mask. From lightweight moisture to targeted brightening, each one brought a different benefit to my routine.
Plump Glow Collagen Jelly Cream
The first thing that stood out to me about the Plump Glow Collagen Jelly Cream was its bouncy, pink jelly texture. The refreshing formula spreads easily and melts into the skin without feeling heavy or greasy. I also appreciated that it does not have a noticeable scent.
The cream contains collagen extract, salmon PDRN and vitamin B12. According to Kiss New York, it has been clinically tested and shown to increase skin hydration by 22%. The formula is designed to visibly plump and lift the skin while creating a radiant, glass-skin-inspired finish.
Rich moisturizers can sometimes feel uncomfortable during warm or humid weather, but this cream gave my skin the moisture it needed without weighing it down. After application, my complexion felt refreshed and had a soft, dewy finish.
Another advantage is its versatility. Kiss New York designed the cream as a two-in-one product that can be used during the day or as an overnight treatment. In the morning, a light layer works as the final moisturizing step and creates a hydrated base for makeup. At night, a thicker layer can be applied like a sleeping mask for an extra boost of moisture.
With its weightless feel, flexible application and glow-enhancing finish, this cream was an all-around winner for me.
Bright Vita Charge Toner Pads
Toner pads have become one of my favorite K-beauty formats because they add several benefits to a routine without requiring much time or effort. The Bright Vita Charge Toner Pads combine toner and cotton pad in one convenient, pre-soaked product. I use them immediately after cleansing and before applying serum and moisturizer.
Each pad has two sides that serve different purposes. I start with the embossed side, gently sweeping it across my face to lift away any remaining residue and exfoliate dead skin cells. I then use the smooth side to distribute the rest of the product and provide a soothing layer of moisture. The pads can also be placed on targeted areas and used as mini masks when certain spots need additional attention.
The formula features niacinamide, glutathione, CoQ10 and PHA. According to the brand, this combination helps gently exfoliate and soothe the skin while improving the appearance of dullness and uneven tone. I liked the refreshing sensation and how polished my skin felt after using the pads.
These are an approachable option for anyone who wants to explore K-beauty without committing to a complicated, multistep regimen. They make it simple to remove lingering impurities, gently exfoliate and refresh the complexion in one step, with no need to purchase a separate liquid toner or cotton pads.
Skin Plump Vita Hydra Serum
Of the four products I tried, the Skin Plump Vita Hydra Serum was my favorite. Moisture is one of my biggest skin care priorities, especially when my skin feels dry, tight or unbalanced. This serum gave me the additional hydration I was looking for without weighing down my complexion.
Part of Kiss New York’s multivitamin Vita line, the serum features a deep-hydration complex with five types of hyaluronic acid, ceramides and Centella asiatica. These ingredients are intended to replenish moisture, support the skin barrier and provide a soothing effect. The formula is also free from parabens and harsh alcohols, and Kiss New York says it is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
The serum glides smoothly across the skin and absorbs quickly. Most importantly, it does not leave behind the sticky residue that can make some hydrating products difficult to layer. I apply it after cleansing and toning but before moisturizer. It also wears comfortably beneath makeup, so it fits easily into either my morning or evening routine.
After applying it, my skin felt soft and refreshed and appeared plumper and more supple. I can easily see this serum becoming a staple in my skin care lineup. Its travel-friendly size is another advantage, and it will definitely be joining me on upcoming business trips.
Radiant Glow Kojic Acid Overnight Wrapping Mask
The Radiant Glow Kojic Acid Overnight Wrapping Mask is one of the more unusual skin care products I’ve used. Unlike a traditional mask that is rinsed away after several minutes, this treatment is applied as the final step of an evening routine and left on overnight.
The included spatula makes it easy to spread a thin, even layer across the skin without creating a mess. Once dry, the mask forms a breathable barrier designed to seal in moisture and skin care ingredients while you sleep. In the morning, it can be gently peeled away or rinsed off with lukewarm water.
The formula combines kojic acid with turmeric extract, seven types of hyaluronic acid and moringa seed oil. Kojic acid is used to help improve the appearance of dark spots and uneven tone, while the other ingredients condition the skin and support a more luminous complexion.
I wasn’t sure how I would feel about wearing a mask throughout the night, but it was more comfortable than I expected. When I removed it the next morning, my skin felt soft, fresh and well moisturized, with a noticeably revitalized appearance.
This is not a treatment I would use every night, but it is a great option when my complexion looks tired or I want to give my routine a little extra attention. I could also see myself reaching for it before an event when I want my skin to look especially fresh and luminous.
My Overall Take
What impressed me most about the Kiss New York K-Beauty collection was its approachable nature. The products feature ingredients and formats that have become popular in Korean skin care, yet they are easy to understand and incorporate into an existing routine.
Each of the four products served a different purpose, but the Skin Plump Vita Hydra Serum was the clear winner for me. Its fast-absorbing formula, easy application and emphasis on hydration made it the best match for my skin and the product I am most likely to continue using.
With every product priced under $20, the collection offers an accessible way to explore K-beauty without investing in an entirely new regimen. Whether you are looking to boost moisture, address a dull or uneven complexion or simply make your daily skin care routine feel a little more special, Kiss New York provides several easy places to begin.
Shop the collection through the Kiss New York Amazon storefront. For product news, skin care tips and the latest launches, follow Kiss New York on Facebook and Instagram.
Disclosure: Kristine has personally reviewed the products featured in this blog post. She is sharing her honest and unbiased opinion about the products with the readers of the TCC blog. Your opinion may differ. This post may contain affiliate links.
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