In this series we call Tried & True, we shortlist the holy grails and the OGs, the top-shelf regulars, under-the-radar picks, as well as the new and fresh-off-the-lab and the viral sensations worth the hype from reputable brands that we’ve road-tested ourselves.
Behind the name, we explore what makes a brand worth discovering, whether it’s how it has redefined beauty, its founder’s inspiring story, or how its range of offerings gave consumers what they truly want and need. In this edition, we take a closer look into cult-favorite K-Beauty brand, Innisfree.
If you’ve jumped on the K-Beauty bandwagon early on, Innisfree was probably one of the first Korean brands you’ve tried—and loved. Remember when sheet masks were all the rage? To date, Innisfree remains a name that stands out in the South Korean beauty scene, best known for its unique approach to skincare that emphasizes nature and sustainability.
Launched in 2000 as part of the Amorepacific Group, the brand draws inspiration from Jeju Island, a beautiful UNESCO Biosphere Reserve famous for its diverse plant life. Its dedication to using natural ingredients from this rich landscape allows it to carve out its own unique identity in the beauty industry.
From the very beginning, Innisfree has focused on creating high-quality products that not just enhance one’s beauty but also care for the planet. With a strong commitment to eco-friendly practices like using recyclable packaging and sourcing sustainably, Innisfree appeals to those looking to make mindful choices in their skincare and beauty routines. This philosophy is present in every product, whether it’s the hydrating benefits of green tea or the soothing properties of volcanic ash sourced from Jeju’s mountains.
Recently, Innisfree underwent a significant redirection, focusing on its mission to deliver effective, nature-powered skincare. “[Innisfree underwent a] major rebranding last year [as the brand focuses] on providing effective, nature-powered skincare that will address our customers’ skin concerns and make them feel good,” begins Pia Alday, head of marketing communications for Innisfree Philippines. “Since Innisfree harnesses the power of nature in our beauty products, [we are amplifying its mission to] give back by launching efforts to become more sustainable through bottle recycling campaigns and upcycling,” she adds. This commitment to sustainability is further exemplified by Innisfree’s recent certification as a cruelty-free brand by PETA, showing its dedication to ethical practices in beauty.
Over the years, Innisfree has built a diverse lineup of products that cater to a wide range of skin concerns, making it a favorite of beauty fans all around the world. From hydrating creams to effective cleansers, many of these items have achieved cult status among fans. The brand is not just praised for its results; it also features innovative formulations that blend advanced skincare technology with traditional Korean beauty practices.
HERO PRODUCT
Innisfree Green Tea Seed Hyaluronic Serum
Innisfree’s Green Tea Seed Hyaluronic Serum has long been a fan favorite and is known for its hydrating yet lightweight formula. “Our Green Tea Seed Hyaluronic Serum has been loved by Filipinos since Innisfree launched here in 2018,” says Alday. “It’s consistently a bestseller because of its hydrating but lightweight formula. Considering the hot and humid weather in the Philippines, people usually like to go for anything lightweight!” she adds. This combination of deep hydration and the light feel definitely makes it ideal for tropical climates and a go-to option for many.
The first thing you’ll notice about the serum is its lightweight, watery texture. It absorbs quickly into the skin, leaving no sticky or greasy residue, which is perfect for layering with other skincare products. Thanks to its Beauty Green Tea™ and Encapsulated Hyaluronic Acid, this serum effectively locks in moisture across multiple skin layers, giving your skin that plump and hydrated look.
The serum is now on its fifth generation according to Alday and is continually being reformulated to improve its effectiveness. “It’s a product that’s already stood the test of time,” she says, crediting its success to the brand’s dedication to green tea science, backed by over 40 years of research and the selection of Beauty Green Tea from more than 3,301 varieties.
Innisfree Green Tea Seed Hyaluronic Serum
P690, Lazada
SECRET OBSESSION
Innisfree Green Tea Seed Hyaluronic Cream
This cream is a hydrating moisturizer that nourishes the skin with its blend of high-quality ingredients. Infused with Jeju Green Tea extract and hyaluronic acid, it aims to deliver deep hydration while feeling refreshingly lightweight. It’s a great option for those wanting an effective moisturizer that won’t weigh down on the skin.
With its smooth texture, the cream glides on easily and absorbs instantly, leaving no greasy residue behind. You’ll enjoy its light and refreshing sensation, making it ideal for both morning and nighttime use. The convenient jar makes it easy to scoop out just the right amount, and a little goes a long way, so you can expect it to last you for months.
Innisfree Green Tea Seed Hyaluronic Cream
P1,490, Lazada
TRUSTED GO-TO
Innisfree Green Tea Amino Hydrating Cleansing Foam
This cleansing foam is a gentle yet effective way to remove impurities while keeping your skin’s natural moisture balance intact. It has a luxuriously rich texture that lathers up nicely with just a small amount. When you mix it with water, it turns into a creamy foam, making the application really satisfying. The product glides on smoothly and rinses off easily, leaving your skin feeling clean and refreshed.
Many of its users often say their skin feels soft, smooth, and well-hydrated after using this cleansing foam. Unlike some foaming cleansers that can leave your skin feeling tight or dry, this cleanser just hits the sweet spot, cleansing effectively without sacrificing hydration. Its gentle formula makes it a great choice for daily use, and the refreshing scent of green tea adds a satisfying touch to the experience.
Innisfree Green Tea Amino Hydrating Cleansing Foam
P750, Lazada
CULT CLASSIC
Innisfree Super Volcanic Pore Clay Mask
This mask is a fan favorite among skincare enthusiasts, especially for anyone dealing with excess oil, clogged pores, and rough skin texture. Long-time fans of the brand probably remember its old brown packaging and how this volcanic mask was such a viral hit back then, recommended by beauty titles and personalities left and right.
The Innisfree Super Volcanic Pore Clay Mask has a thick, creamy texture that spreads easily and gives a nice, slightly cooling feeling when you put it on. To use it, just apply a generous layer to clean the skin, leave it on for 10 to 20 minutes, and rinse off with lukewarm water. As it dries, the mask feels light and airy—barely any tightness or discomfort!
What makes this mask stand out is its ability to effectively draw out impurities and excess oil from your pores. Most users notice a visible reduction in the appearance of pores and a smoother texture after just one use, making it especially great for those with oily or combination skin types.
HARDWORKING MUST-TRY
Innisfree Retinol Cica Repair Ampoule
This ampoule is a powerful treatment designed to tackle acne, refine skin texture, and minimize the appearance of fine lines—all while being gentle enough for sensitive skin. It combines the effectiveness of retinol, a well-known anti-aging and skin-smoothing ingredient, with the calming benefits of cica (centella asiatica), which helps soothe irritation and redness. Innisfree even claims that this ampoule provides a “formula for peeled-egg skin,” promoting a smooth, soft texture that’s just like the delicate surface of a freshly peeled egg.
What truly makes this ampoule impressive is its balance of powerful ingredients and soothing elements. While retinol is great for speeding up cell turnover to smooth out fine lines, fade hyperpigmentation, and unclog pores, it can sometimes be a bit harsh for sensitive skin. That’s where the cica does the trick—its presence in this formula helps reduce any potential irritation and makes it a gentle yet effective treatment for a range of skin concerns. “Those who are acne-prone swear by our Retinol Cica Ampoule,” shares Alday, highlighting just how effective it can be.
Innisfree Retinol Cica Repair Ampoule
P2,029.50, Lazada
POPULAR PICK
Innisfree Pore Blur Powder
One of the best things about this powder is its ultra-light texture. It feels almost weightless on your skin and won’t leave you with that cakey or powdery look even after several touch-ups. It’s perfect for setting your foundation or concealer but you can also use it on its own to control shine which makes it a handy addition to your makeup routine. The powder comes with its own soft puff for easy application but you can use a brush if you prefer a more diffused finish.
As the name suggests, the Pore Blur Powder does a great job of blurring. Once applied, your pores and fine lines look less noticeable, leaving your skin looking smoother overall. It gives you a soft, blurred effect that’s ideal for anyone wanting to minimize the look of texture without feeling heavy on the skin.
Innisfree Pore Blur Powder
P1,100, Innisfree
UNDERRATED HOLY GRAIL
Innisfree Jeju Orchid Enriched Cream
The Innisfree Jeju Orchid Enriched Cream is a luxurious anti-aging moisturizer designed to nourish, firm, and hydrate your skin using the power of orchids. Even though it has a rich consistency, this cream absorbs surprisingly well, so you won’t feel greasy or weighed down. It has a silky and smooth texture that makes it great for both your morning and evening skincare routines as you get an instant burst of hydration that leaves your skin feeling soft and plump.
Packed with anti-aging benefits and antioxidants, this cream is a great choice for anyone looking to reduce fine lines, improve the firmness of their skin, and keep a healthy glow. While it’s especially effective for dry or aging skin, it’s also perfect for anyone wanting a deeply moisturizing and rejuvenating cream.
Jeju Orchid Enriched Cream
P1,980, Lazada
EDITOR’S PICK
Innisfree Vitamin C Green Tea Enzyme Brightening Serum
This powerful product boosts radiance, improves skin tone, and gives you that healthy glow. With the antioxidant benefits of vitamin C paired with the texture-refining properties of green tea enzyme, this serum is perfect for anyone wanting to brighten up their complexion and fight dullness. “We recently highlighted our Vitamin C Green Tea Enzyme Brightening Serum a few months ago and it instantly became one of our top sellers. In general, brightening products are very popular in the Philippines, and ingredients such as vitamin C, niacinamide, and glutathione are very trendy in skincare, but our Vitamin C Serum is also formulated with green tea enzymes that mildly exfoliate the skin to help absorb the vitamin C better,” said Alday.
This serum has a lightweight, silky texture that soaks instantly into the skin without leaving any sticky feeling. The dropper bottle is quite convenient, letting you dispense just the right amount. It’s ideal for your morning and evening routines, and works great under makeup or as part of your nighttime skincare routine, plus it layers nicely with other products, and has earned a special place in our routines—it’s no surprise why it’s our Editor’s Pick.
What makes this serum stand out is its unique combination of vitamin C and green tea enzymes, which work together to brighten your skin. Vitamin C is well-known for its ability to address dark spots and uneven skin tone, and Innisfree has made sure to use dual vitamin C derivatives for maximum effectiveness. “It’s also worth mentioning that our Vitamin C Green Tea Enzyme Brightening Serum has quickly become a new customer favorite as brightening products are also very appealing to the Philippine market,” Alday adds.
