Son Ye-jin Reveals Summer Skincare Routine for Radiant Skin

Celebrated Korean actress Son Ye-jin has shared her summer skincare routine, emphasizing the need for resilience and longevity in skin health. As the humid and hot summer of 2025 approaches, experts suggest that conventional lightweight products might not be sufficient. Son, known for her radiant complexion, advocates for a more comprehensive regimen that addresses the challenges posed by rising temperatures and air conditioning.

Son explains that maintaining skin resilience is paramount, as the combination of heat and artificial cooling can compromise the skin barrier. Her philosophy stresses the importance of consistency, highlighting that skincare should not merely focus on achieving a temporary glow but rather on sustaining skin health in various environments.

Modern Skincare Demands Comprehensive Solutions

The traditional skincare routine of merely using toner and sunscreen has evolved significantly in recent years. Son points out that these basic products often fall short against the harsh conditions of today’s summers. Prolonged exposure to heat can lead to micro-fissures in the skin, increasing sensitivity and disrupting texture.

Dermatology professionals recommend incorporating powerful actives into skincare routines. Ingredients like PDRN (Polydeoxyribonucleotide), known for its regenerative properties, and retinol, which stimulates cell turnover, are becoming essential. Additionally, high-strength niacinamide offers brightening effects while reinforcing the skin’s barrier. The Korean Cosmetic Association has noted a surge in demand for serums containing these ingredients, with the premium skincare market reaching a staggering INR 24,000 crore across Asia in 2024.

The Rise of Cooling Products

Son Ye-jin also highlights her preference for cooling skincare products that provide hydration and relief from the heat. She describes cooling sprays and gel-based masks as essential tools during long film shoots, often referring to them as “instant relief” for overheated skin. This trend is reflected in the broader beauty market, with increasing consumer interest in cooling foundations, primers, and multifunctional products designed to soothe irritation and minimize the appearance of pores.

According to reports from Cosmetic Business Asia, consumers are gravitating towards formulas that combine functionality with comfort. This shift redefines skincare, transforming it into a protective ritual rather than a fleeting trend.

As the skincare landscape evolves, K-beauty consultant Cho Hyee-jung observes that today’s consumers are more informed and discerning. They seek transparency regarding ingredient efficacy and sustainability, moving beyond superficial marketing claims. Cho states, “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.”

This shift reflects a broader cultural transition in beauty standards, where skincare practices resemble professional-grade routines accessible to the everyday individual. Rather than following seasonal trends, consumers are now curating thoughtful regimens that effectively combat external stressors, including humidity, UV exposure, and the effects of indoor cooling.

Son Ye-jin’s insights serve as a timely reminder of the importance of adapting skincare practices to meet the unique challenges of summer. By prioritizing resilience and functionality, individuals can achieve not only beauty but also long-lasting skin health in any environment.