Getting to swatch, spritz and sample new launches on a daily basis is one of the many things I adore about my job. But with so many products on the market (and my standards higher than ever…), there’s nothing I love more than those moments when I stumble across a hidden gem.
Whether that’s a budget buy that puts pricier offerings to shame or a formula that delivers game-changing results, I’m all for pleasant surprises. So, when a product (actually, an entire range) does both, I couldn’t be keener to write about it.
It’s no secret that Primark has tons of seriously impressive fragrances, makeup and haircare on offer (which even Khloé Kardashian once raved about!). But the new Korean skincare line isn’t just topping the others, it’s actually giving my high-end routine some serious competition.
Introducing the PS... Glass Skin range
Even if your screen time isn’t as disturbingly high as mine, you’ll have come across the ‘glass skin’ trend on social media. Based on Korean skincare philosophies which focus on deep hydration and barrier-strengthening ingredients, here in the West, it’s best recognised in those ultra-dewy, reflective complexions that are so sought-after.
Primark’s latest range promises to deliver those results through seven affordable products, all manufactured in South Korea. These include lightweight cleansers, serums, toners and masks, all infused with rice extract, cica, niacinamide or vegan collagen; the idea is to create a routine out of layering these gentle, effective formulas.
The verdict
As they’re priced between just £2.50 and £5, at first, the claims seemed impressive even for a drugstore, let alone a high-street retailer. So naturally, I put them to the test.
PS… K-Beauty Face Cleansing Foam, £4.50
My very first thought? I used way too much. On reflection, I’d say it’s a good thing that a little goes a very long way – so even though this purse-friendly cleanser won’t break the bank, it’ll last you a while.
If, like me, you enjoy a sensorial experience when washing your face at the end of the day, you’ll be a fan of this soft foam, which lathers into a gorgeous mousse-like texture. It’s packed with hyaluronic acid and cica complex, so it’s both suitable for sensitive skin and visibly hydrating. Better still, I wasn’t left with that feeling of tightness in my face which some cleansers can give – actually, my skin felt plump and absorbed the product nicely.
PS… K-Beauty Face Serum, £5
For context, I have combination and acne-prone skin, plus some pigmentation. So even though I’m used to incorporating some more powerful actives and high-performance serums into my daily skincare regime, I could find a place for this silky serum.
I didn’t notice a significant difference in hydration until I completed the routine, but the texture felt refreshing on the skin. All in all, it’s an easy-to-use niacinamide-based formula that would probably best suit those with oily complexions wanting a glowy boost without overloading the skin.
PS… K-Beauty Gel Face Moisturiser, £5
I’m typically a cream or lotion kind of girl when it comes to face creams, so I was surprised at how impressed I was by this bouncy gel texture. In fact, I think it’s important to note that on first use, the formula reminded me a little of Murad’s Nutrient-Charged Water Gel.
I’ll give an honourable mention to the little spatula included in the lid (a simple, but fancy touch) and say on record, that I loved this moisturiser. Again, less than a coin-sized amount was needed to make my skin feel instantly calm and nourished, but the real selling point was the glow that followed.
As someone with texture and acne scars, my version of glass skin looks healthy, luminous and smoother without being flawless. The Gel Face Moisturiser delivered just that – plus, the dewy finish lasted for at least an hour. It played nicely with my makeup, too (no pilling, no slipping and sliding), but my face felt a little tacky after applying it. Personally, I don’t mind that (I feel I can avoid using a primer when my moisturiser is grippy enough), but others might!
PS… K-Beauty Overnight Collagen Sheet Mask, £2.50
Not to be dramatic, but I did have to grit my teeth and bear this one. I can’t fault Primark for that – my sensory issues usually steer me clear of overnight masks.
That being said, I’m so glad I gave this hydrogel sheet mask a try. It took no more than a minute to apply and felt instantly cooling. And since it’s infused with sollulable collagen and niacinamide, I knew I’d be in for hydration, firming and a glassy finish in one. This can be worn for just 3 hours if you’re in a rush, but I would recommend wearing it while you sleep – not only to see the best results, but I felt the mask slipping quite easily when I wasn’t laying down.
By the morning, it was almost transparent and peeled off with ease, leaving my skin feeling bouncier and plumper to the touch and seemingly reflecting light from every window – the hallmark of glass skin. This definitely isn’t essential – the three previous steps are enough to make a minimal routine – but truthfully, it’s a lovely addition. And for £2.50? You can’t go wrong.
Beauty Assistant Urmi works across Cosmopolitan, ELLE, Harper's Bazaar, Red and Prima.
She fell into the world of beauty following a Masters in Magazine Journalism, and has been knee-deep in maximalist makeup, seasonal nail trends, and skincare myth-busting ever since. Both in and outside the office, she is best recognised by her signature red hair and elaborate set of acrylics.
