Capsule creams have literally exploded onto the K-beauty scene. These captivating boba-like concoctions have everyone curious about what they do and how they benefit the skin, and we can confirm that they’re actively effective beyond their kooky appearance. But with so many formulas being released out into the world, which one should you pick? A capsule cream is not only a fun way to jazz up your routine, but also a good way to get your skin receiving all the necessary nutrients it needs to stay healthy. This is your guide to the most viral capsule creams, breaking down the key ingredients and benefits of each formula to help you decide which one you should add to cart. Keep reading on for the details.

The “Boba” Creams

If you’ve seen a boba cream on social media, chances are you’re thinking of those jars that consist of boba-like capsules suspended in a gel cream. Encapsulating ingredients ensures they’re fresh when applied onto the skin so that you can fully absorb all the active ingredients. The beauty of these formulas is that you can customize them to your skin's needs, be it wanting a little extra moisture from more of the cream capsules, or a lighter layer with a bigger gel to cream ratio.

 

medicube - PDRN Pink Collagen Capsule Cream

medicube - PDRN Pink Collagen Capsule Cream

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - medicube

Key ingredients: Salmon-derived PDRN, Collagen, Niacinamide

Benefits: boosts skin firmness and glowiness

 

medicube - TXA Niacinamide Capsule Cream

medicube - TXA Niacinamide Capsule Cream

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - medicube

Key ingredients: 99% Tranexamic Acid, Niacinamide, Glutathione

Benefits: improves skin tone and eradicates dullness

 

medicube - Deep Vita C Capsule Cream

medicube - Deep Vita C Capsule Cream

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - medicube

Key ingredients: Sea Buckthorn extract, Ascorbic Acid, Ferulic Acid

Benefits: offers antioxidant protection and fosters a natural radiance

 

VT - PDRN Capsule Cream 100

VT - PDRN Capsule Cream 100

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - VT

Key ingredients: Ginseng-derived PDRN, 9 types of Peptides, 10 types of Hyaluronic Acid

Benefits: delivers hydration and plumps up sagging skin

 

SUNGBOON EDITOR - Deep Collagen Retinol Power Boosting Capsule Cream

SUNGBOON EDITOR - Deep Collagen Retinol Power Boosting Capsule Cream

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - SUNGBOON EDITOR

Key ingredients: Retinol, Collagen, Spicules

Benefits: firms up the complexion and smooths out texture

Traditional Capsule Creams

Prior to the boba creams came traditional capsule creams, where the capsules would be smaller or in some cases too small to visually identify (don’t worry, they’re there). The reason for encapsulating ingredients was to keep all active ingredients fresh, in order to let the skin fully absorb their benefits. With these textures, you might feel small capsules pop upon the complexion when applying them – you might even say they’re like popping boba.

 

beplain - Cicaterol Capsule Barrier Cream

beplain - Cicaterol Capsule Barrier Cream

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - beplain

Key ingredients: Centella Asiatica, Shea Butter, Ceramide

Benefits: relieves blemishes and calms irritation

 

Parnell - Panthenol 3.89% + Heartleaf Calming Capsule Cream

Parnell - Panthenol 3.89% + Heartleaf Calming Capsule Cream

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - Parnell

Key ingredients: Jeju Heartleaf, Centella Leaf Water, Panthenol

Benefits: provides soothing effects and repairs a damaged skin barrier

 

Aestura - AtoBarrier 365 Cream

Aestura - AtoBarrier 365 Cream

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - Aestura

Key ingredients: Ceramide, Vitamin E, Squalane

Benefits: replenishes the moisture barrier and alleviates compromised skin

Which capsule cream is your winner? Make sure you’re following us on Instagram and Facebook, as well as keeping an eye on the VANA Blog, so you receive all the latest news, promos and information!