You may see words such as 토너 (toner), 에센스 (essence), 앰플 (ampoule), 세럼 (serum), 크림 (cream) and 선크림 (sunscreen). Brands use these categories differently. The product name alone does not establish a standard formula, effect or order of use.
Four checks before paying
- Identify the exact item. Check the product name, size, shade or type and seller information. Similar names may refer to different formulas or gift sets.
- Read ingredients and precautions. Check the package for ingredients you wish to avoid, directions and warnings. Translation and ingredient naming formats vary by product.
- Check date and batch information. Look for the printed batch code and the stated expiry date or period-after-opening information. Ask the retailer if you cannot locate the relevant label.
- Separate marketing from evidence. Words such as “functional” do not by themselves mean a product is a medicine or that it is suitable for you. Do not treat an advertising phrase as a guarantee of an effect.
What does 기능성화장품 mean?
기능성화장품 is a term used within Korea’s cosmetics system. Korea’s Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) warns against cosmetic claims that could be mistaken for medicine, or that go beyond the relevant reviewed scope. A short consumer guide cannot determine which regulatory category or review applies to a particular item.
Scope and limitations
The MFDS label-information page is an official Korean-language source. The points above are a shopper’s reading checklist; they are not a complete legal labelling checklist under current law and are not advice for importing, selling or advertising products. Those decisions require checking current rules for the relevant market.
SEOUL NOTE does not recommend or score individual products. This page explains terms and package checks; it does not provide a skin assessment or decide whether a product is right for a particular person.