The Best K-Beauty Alternatives to Cult-Favorite Products – Part 2
Posted by Skinsider Team on 11th Apr 2025
After the amazing response to our first roundup of K-beauty alternatives (you can check it out here), we knew we had to come back with Part 2! This time, we’re spotlighting three more cult-favourite products, the kind that get hyped up on TikTok and fly off the shelves, and pairing them with K-beauty gems that deliver equal (if not better!) results, but with skin-loving ingredients, ethical formulas, and that signature K-beauty innovation.
Let’s dive in!
If you love: Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush – “Happy”
Try this instead: House of HUR Moist Ampule Blusher – “Cherry Blossom”
Okay, let’s be honest, the Rare Beauty blushes are iconic. But if you’re on the hunt for something that gives you the same radiant, juicy flush with a nourishing skincare twist, House of HUR’s Moist Ampule Blusher in Cherry Blossom is a total dream.
I’ve personally used both, and I’ll say it: this is a nearly identical match in tone, texture, and finish. Cherry Blossom gives you that same bright, cheerful pink that instantly lifts your complexion. What I love most is that it’s infused with hydrating ampoule ingredients, so it doesn’t just sit pretty, it actually cares for your skin throughout the day. Bonus: it blends like a dream and has that same natural “your cheeks but better” vibe.
If you love: Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream
Try this instead: Dr. Althea – Rapid Firm Sculpting Cream
Drunk Elephant’s Protini is a go-to for many when it comes to firming and plumping the skin. But if you’re looking for a K-beauty dupe that gives you all that bounce and hydration without the high price tag, look no further than Dr. Althea’s Rapid Firm Sculpting Cream.
I tried this one during a stressful week when my skin was looking dull and tired, and I kid you not, within days my complexion looked noticeably firmer and more refreshed. It has a super-smooth texture, absorbs quickly, and layers beautifully with other skincare. It’s packed with peptides and botanical extracts, making it a stellar alternative that’s every bit as effective, but a little kinder to your wallet.
If you love: Lancôme Lip Idôle Butterglow – “Heated Glow”
Try this instead: Melixir Vegan Lip Butter – “Nude Crumble”
If you’re a fan of Lancôme’s buttery, glossy tints, then you’re going to fall in love with Melixir’s Vegan Lip Butter in Nude Crumble. Not only does it deliver that same soft, radiant glow with a warm nude hue, but it does so with an ultra-nourishing, 100% vegan formula.
I reach for this one constantly. It’s like your lips but better and smoother, thanks to shea butter and agave. The texture is divine: creamy, rich, and never sticky, with just enough tint to make you feel polished even on no-makeup days. It’s the kind of lip product that lives in your bag, coat pocket, and nightstand.
Final Thoughts
K-beauty continues to surprise me with how effortlessly it blends performance, ingredients, and thoughtful formulation. These alternatives don’t feel like second choices, they feel like secret weapons in your beauty arsenal.
Tried any of these already? Let us know your thoughts!
