If you’ve spent any time browsing Korean skincare online, you’ve probably come across the phrase “functional cosmetics.” It sounds like marketing language, but in Korea it’s actually a regulated category — and understanding what it means can save you from wasting money on products that only work on the surface. What Is Functional Cosmetics? In…

In the world of anti-aging medicine, scientists are currently focusing on one compound: NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide). This coenzyme is absolutely crucial for the life of every cell in our body, including skin cells. What is NAD+ and why do its levels drop? NAD+ is responsible for the production of cellular energy (ATP) in mitochondria and for…

When you enter a drugstore, you see signs saying “anti-wrinkle cream” or “brightening serum.” In most cases, these are just marketing claims from the manufacturer. However, in South Korea, there is an official, officially controlled product category: Functional Cosmetics . The difference between marketing and law A functional cosmetic is a product that falls between regular skincare…