Kimchi makeup is a new beauty trend inspired by the colors and textures of kimchi, the famous Korean fermented vegetable dish. This makeup style uses bold reds, oranges, and pinks to create a fresh, spicy look that mimics the vibrant appearance of kimchi.
The trend focuses on creating a healthy, glowing complexion with a slight flush as if you’ve just eaten something spicy. It often includes dewy skin, glossy lips, and eye makeup in warm, delicious shades.
The Origins of Kimchi Makeup
Kimchi makeup emerged from South Korea; a country known for its innovative beauty trends. Korean makeup artists and beauty influencers started experimenting with looks inspired by traditional Korean foods, with kimchi being a natural choice due to its eye-catching colors.
The trend quickly gained popularity on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok, where users shared their kimchi-inspired looks using hashtags like #kimchimakeup and #spicymakeup.
Key Elements of Kimchi Makeup
Here are the main components of the kimchi makeup look:
| Feature | Description |
| Skin: | Dewy, glowing complexion with a slight flush |
| Eyes: | Warm shades of red, orange, and pink |
| Lips: | Glossy finish in coral or red tones |
| Cheeks: | Rosy blush for a healthy, spicy-food flush |
The Best Kimchi Makeup Products
Here’s a table of popular products used to create kimchi makeup looks:
| Product Type | Recommended Options |
| Foundation: | Glossier Perfecting Skin Tint, NARS Sheer Glow |
| Highlighter: | Rare Beauty Positive Light Liquid Luminizer, Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector |
| Eyeshadow: | Huda Beauty Neon Obsessions Palette, Colourpop Yes, Please! Palette |
| Blush: | Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush, NARS Liquid Blush |
| Lip Products | Etude House Dear Darling Water Gel Tint, Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb |
Foundation
#1. A Really Good Foundation – 126MD Tan + Cool Neutral Undertones
| Price: | $29 |
| Rating: | 4.5 out of 5 stars. |
| What Makes IT chic + Vegan: | Cruelty Free.
Sulfate Free. Paraben Free. Phthalates Free. 100% Vegan. |
#2. A Really Good Foundation – 131D Tan/Deep + Very Warm Undertones
| Price: | $29 |
| Rating: | 4.5 out of 5 stars. |
| What Makes IT chic + Vegan: | Cruelty Free.
Sulfate Free. Paraben Free. Phthalates Free. 100% Vegan. |
Highlighter:
#1. Glam Tears All Over Liquid Highlighter – 02 Silk
| Price: | $16. |
| Rating: | 4.8 out of 5 stars. |
| What Makes IT chic + Vegan: | Cruelty Free.
Sulfate Free. Paraben Free. Phthalates Free. 100% Vegan. |
#2. Thailor Get Glow Highlighter Duo – 03 Hollywood Glow
| Price: | $16. |
| Rating: | 4.9 out of 5 stars. |
| What Makes IT chic + Vegan: | Cruelty Free.
Sulfate Free. Paraben Free. Phthalates Free. 100% Vegan. |
Eyeshadow:
#1. The Effin Liner – 03 Dark Brown + Dark Brown
| Price: | $10. |
| Rating: | 4.7 out of 5 stars. |
| Net Weight: | 0.26 fl oz (7.75ml). |
| What Makes IT chic + Vegan: | Cruelty Free.
Sulfate Free. Paraben Free. Phthalates Free. 100% Vegan. |
#2. KIMBROWLY EYEBROW PENCIL – 06 S Black
| Price: | $14. |
| Rating: | 4.6 out of 5 stars. |
| Net Weight: | 0.3 g (0.011oz). |
| What Makes IT chic + Vegan: | Cruelty Free.
Sulfate Free. Paraben Free. Phthalates Free. 100% Vegan. |
Blush:
#1. Thailor Blush Duo – 05 Peachy
| Price: | $16. |
| Rating: | 4.9 out of 5 stars. |
| Net Weight: | 7g (0.25 oz). |
| What Makes IT chic + Vegan: | Cruelty Free.
Sulfate Free. Paraben Free. Phthalates Free. 100% Vegan. |
#2. Cheeky 3some Blush Trio – 01 Just a Pinch
| Price: | $19. |
| Rating: | 4.9 out of 5 stars. |
| Net Weight: | 13.5 grams (.47 ounces). |
| What Makes IT chic + Vegan: | Cruelty Free.
Sulfate Free. Paraben Free. Phthalates Free. 100% Vegan. |
Lip Products:
#1. Marshmallow Butter Lippie – 03 Crown
| Price: | $12. |
| Rating: | 5.0 out of 5 stars. |
| Net Weight: | 4.2g (0.15 oz). |
| What Makes IT chic + Vegan: | Cruelty Free.
Sulfate Free. Paraben Free. Phthalates Free. 100% Vegan. |
#2. Marshmallow Butter Lippie – 16 Hi Friends
| Price: | $12. |
| Rating: | 4.7 out of 5 stars. |
| Net Weight: | 4.2g (0.15 oz). |
| What Makes IT chic + Vegan: | Cruelty Free.
Sulfate Free. Paraben Free. Phthalates Free. 100% Vegan. |
Conclusion:
Kimchi makeup offers a fun, fresh way to spice up your beauty routine. Whether you go for a bold, fiery look or a subtle hint of warmth, this trend allows for creativity and self-expression. As the beauty world continues to draw inspiration from diverse sources, we can expect to see more exciting and culturally inspired trends in the future.
FAQ
Q1: What is kimchi makeup?
A: Kimchi makeup is a Korean beauty trend inspired by the vibrant red color of kimchi. It features rosy, flushed cheeks and lips that look fresh and healthy.
Q2: How do I create the kimchi makeup look?
A: Focus on building a dewy base, apply a bright red or coral blush on the cheeks, and use a similar shade on the lips. Blend well for a natural-looking flush.
Q3: Is kimchi makeup suitable for all skin tones?
A: Yes, kimchi makeup can be adapted for all skin tones. Choose shades that complement your natural skin color for the best results.
Q4: What products do I need for kimchi makeup?
A: You’ll need a dewy foundation, bright red or coral blush, matching lip tint or lipstick, and optional highlighter for extra glow.
Q5: How long does kimchi makeup last?
A: With proper application and setting, kimchi makeup can last 6-8 hours. Touch-ups may be needed for the lip color.