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Just a couple of days ago, I wrote my first ever exclusive article for BONIIK Note to discuss K-pop Idol Makeup and also give a few easy to implement tips on how to achieve a similar look yourself. I am legitimately so excited to be sharing this story and writing off the Oh My Stellar blog for the first time ever!

If you’re looking to pick up some k-beauty goodies from the BONIIK Website make sure to use my code OHMYSTELLAR for 20% off your order (not an affiliate code and only valid until 6th of February 2021). This code is online exclusive and is not to be used in conjunction with any other offers or promotions.

Now read on for a little excerpt.


I have always been fascinated by K-pop idol makeup – from stage to music videos, their style is always changing and evolving. When most people think of Korean makeup, they often default to the ulzzang style – dark puppy eyeliner, gradient lips and a frosty, highlighted aegyosal (the small puff of fat beneath the eyes believed to give a youthful look). This look used to be popular amongst idols too but there has been so much change in recent years.

In my opinion, this new ‘era’ of makeup started when Pony became the makeup artist of 2NE1’s CL – she was one of the first to introduce matte, fuller lips to the idol style, totally defying previous trends. Other iconic looks in recent years would be Girls’ Generation Taeyeon’s fairy-like makeup from her ‘I’ era, as well as BLACKPINK’s editorial fashion aesthetics from the ‘How You Like That’ MV.

The idol makeup look is deceptively intimidating – there are so many different styles to play with – but you can easily break it down to just a few key points. There are general concepts that are consistent over most makeup looks so it’s much easier to focus on these and then gradually adapt to suit your style.

Now, let’s look at the three points – your base makeup, eyes and lips!

Base Makeup

Great makeup needs a great base, so make sure that you’re using the appropriate skincare beneath your foundation. This will vary between skin types, but a great tip is to apply products in light layers – products like the ISNTREE Green Tea Fresh Toner or even the LANEIGE Cream Skin Mist are great options for lightweight and long lasting hydration.

TIP: If you have time, pop on a sheet mask too (such as THE FACE SHOP Real Nature Blueberry Mask Sheet) – this is a secret step used by most Korean makeup artists!

For makeup, focus on products that are long lasting but still give a bright, natural finish. You want your complexion to look good for as long as possible, so it’s important that the product doesn’t oxidize over time. A great option is the CLIO Kill Cover Founwear Cushion, which has a natural matte finish as well as a non-oxidizing, anti-darkening formula. Alternatively, you can also look into the LANEIGE Neo Cushion – it’s weightless and has a waterproof formula that also controls sebum, so it’s great for longevity.

The cushion puff is perfect for touch ups, but it’s easier to work with a blending sponge for the initial application. You can dampen this sponge for a dewy look or use as it is for higher coverage. Remember to apply your foundation in light layers and only build coverage in problem areas – this will help achieve the most natural finish.

TIP: If you’re concerned about transfer, or want to prevent makeup from rubbing off on your face mask, add a light layer of mattifying powder. The INNISFREE No Sebum Mineral Powder is perfect as it’s translucent and leaves skin with the silkiest finish.

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