£20 Korean moisturiser is ‘a lifesaver’ for sensitive skin

Korean beauty has seen a huge rise in the UK over the last 15 years, with its focus on hydration, barrier support and gentle formulas making it a go-to for people with sensitive or problem-prone skin.

Thanks to the K-beauty industry we’ve had products like sheet masks, BB creams, and pimple patches. Now one product in particular has started catching attention with British shoppers — the Illiyoon Ceramide Ato concentrate cream, which claims to keep skin hydrated for 100 hours.

Available on Amazon for £19.99, the cream contains a blend of ceramides, fatty acids and cholesterol, three components naturally found in healthy skin. It contains ingredients that are more commonly found in Asian skin-care brands, such as natto gum, panax ginseng and perilla seed extract.

These are said to help to support the skin’s protective barrier, which can weaken through ageing, weather changes or over-exfoliation. The formula is fragrance-free and designed to suit sensitive skin types, and is particularly popular with those who suffer from eczema. 

Shoppers have highlighted its rich texture and long-lasting moisture, particularly during colder months when skin is prone to dryness. One reviewer wrote: “This ceramide moisturiser has been a lifesaver for my skin barrier! I started using it day and night and even reapplied it a few times during the day whenever I felt I needed extra hydration. Within just a week, my skin was completely healed! The redness, flakiness, and irritation were all gone, and my skin felt calm, soft, and strong again.”

A second user enthused: “Lovely creamy but not heavy consistency. Sinks in, no residue. Doesn’t cause spots or make you greasy. I have dry oily combination skin and this stuff is a miracle.” While a third shopper commented on its suitability for reactive skin: “This is the only cream that calms my eczema without stinging. My skin feels hydrated all day.”

However, not everyone has found it perfect. Some note that the thicker texture can feel heavy, particularly for those with oily or combination skin. One shopper said: “It works, but it’s too rich for me to use during the day. I save it for night-time.”

The cream is available on Amazon in three sizes: 75ml priced at £9.99 (considering the same size is sold at Superdrug for £20 it’s a huge saving), 200ml at £19.99, or 500ml for £34.99. The two larger sizes are much bigger than many standard moisturisers, making it popular for families or those using it on both face and body. Many reviewers mention that a small amount goes a long way, so the tube can last for several months.

Compared to other K-beauty favourites, such as Corsx’s Snail 92 Cream or Laneige’s Water Bank, Illiyoon’s offering is more focused on repairing and maintaining the skin barrier rather than lightweight hydration or glow.